It's been 100 Years

Blog has moved

2009-03-09T11:54:00.001+02:00

My blog has moved to http://blogs.theherald.co.za/100yrs/

Please join me there and check out my podcasts as well.

Splendid rains

2009-02-19T09:35:00.003+02:00

Two and a quarter inches of rain fell yesterday afternoon in town (Graaff-Reinet), and there was a good fall over the district generally.
The river came down in the evening.
A good soaking rain set in this afternoon, and there is every sign of its continuation.

Eastern Province Herald - February 16, 1909

Amazing, exactly 100 years later and again a drought partially broken by rains. Just goes to show that we may not be in a global warming pattern. What do you think?

Little Johnny's appetite

2009-02-18T10:36:00.003+02:00

Little Johnny was in the habit of wanting more victuals put upon his plate than he could eat.
His papa decided to break him of the habit.
One day, as Johnny insisted upon being served until his plate was well filled, his papa said: "Johnny, if I give you this you will have to eat every bit of it, or I will punish you."
Johnny promised that he would, and bravely did the little fellow try to do so, but in vain.
It was too much for him.
He would try again and again, and then, look sorrowfully at his papa.
Finally, laying down his fork, he said: "Papa, if you was me, which would you rather do, bet a licking or bust?"
Rehoboth Sunday Herald

Eastern Province Herald - February 17, 1909

Reminds me of my mom saying: "Don't waste your food. Just think about all the starving people in Africa who have nothing to eat."

Leper's grievances ventilated

2009-02-18T10:18:00.005+02:00

The Colonial Secretary paid a visit to Robben Island on Monday, and addressed the lepers in regard to certain grievances.
It appears that a number of lepers refused to submit themselves to the Medical Board, to whose methods they objected.
The Colonial Secretary said no change could be made in the Board and no insubordination would be tolerated.
The Government had the interest of lepers at heart.
An additional medical man was about to be appointed for research in the island, and the Government was also sending a representative to the International Leprosy Congress.
The assurances of the Colonial Secretary appeared to give satisfaction to the lepers.

Eastern Province Herald - February 17, 1909

The Colonial Secretary had a lot to learn about dealing with people. How arrogant to accuse sick people of "insubordination" when all they were doing was airing their views.

Trouble comes in threes

2009-02-17T10:48:00.002+02:00

Here is an illustration of the old saying about troubles coming in battalions, which seems weird in its intensity.
Mr E J Klette had thre beautiful grey horses, two of which formed a pair, which he sold provisionally to a firm in East London while on a visit there.
He came back to find that the pair had been seized with paralysis and been shot.
But worse was to follow.
The coloured man who came to fetch him from the station inspanned the remaining grey, and a hired horse, and was sent off with strict injunctions not to go farther than a certain outspan on the first day.
He did so.
However, he disregarded instructions, with the result that the sole remaining grey dropped dead at an outspan the next day.

Eastern Province Herald - February 15, 1909

I wonder if he kept his job or if Mr Klette fired him for disregarding his instructions.

Fatal drowing near Jansenville

2009-02-17T10:14:00.005+02:00

The old saying that grief very often follows joy has been exemplified, the "Graaff-Reinet Advertiser's" correspondent is sorry to say in the district of Jansenville, most painfully.
It appears that a Mr Slabbert was married to a Miss Nel, on Monday last, in Jansenville, and they then went out to the farm at Greystone, where were gathered a number of friends to welcome them and keep the marriage feast.
The homestead is close to the river, and most of the horses of the visitors were driven across to the veld on the other side.
The river, however, came down, and some who were desirous of going home wished to inspan.
A young man, 23 years of age, named Hans Oelse, son of Rudolf Oelse, of Driekoppen, volunteered to saddle a horse and try to bring the other horses over.
The river was dangerously full, but not withstanding, in plunged horse and rider, and when about midstream the horse refused to go further, and Oelse had to return.
Again, with determination one can admire but must deplore, he mounted another horse and essayed to cross; this time he reached about the same place as previously, when the horse was forced completely over by the strength of the stream and Oelse disappeared.
His body was discovered next day a long way down the river against some wire fencing.

Eastern Province Herald - February 15, 1909

Amazing. This guy must have had rocks in his head. Even his horse knew better. Talk about horse-sense. Obviously Oelse didn't have any. People simply don't realise how dangerous flooded rivers are. You have to be so careful.

New Brighton meeting

2009-02-13T10:56:00.004+02:00

A representative gathering of natives of New Brighton (Port Elizabeth) was met by Mr W C Scully, RM (Regional Magistrate), in the Ethiopian Church last evening, for the purposes of discussing matters affecting the location.
Mr Scully, who was introduced by Mr Whitfield, ARM (Assistant Regional Magistrate) of New Brighton, explained that instructions had been received that the Magistracy at New Brighton was to be abolished, but he assured them of his friendship, stating that none of their rights and privileges would be taken away.
He would always be willing to look after their welfare, and to receive a deputation from them when they could state any grievance they might have.
Several of the natives spoke, all complaining that the Magistracy was being abolished.
Mr Scully, however, explained that it was no use referring to that point as it was already an accomplished fact.
Their spokesman replied that when the location was instituted they were promised that a magistrate would be stationed there.
Mr Scully pointed out that the abolition of the Magistracy was caused by the reduction of the population, and in the event of the population increasing again to the former number, no doubt the Magistracy would be revived.
He explained that Inspector Stubbs was being transferred, and Mr Gratton was going to be appointed as Inspector.
All cases would be tried at Port Elizabeth and the Magistrate of Port Elizabeth (Mr Scully) would take the chair at the Advisory Board meeting, which would be held once a month, he going out to New Brighton for that purpose.
The concluded the business.

Eastern Province Herald - February 9, 1909

So the authorities failed to keep their word. No wonder the Blacks have such a deep mistrust of White people. One would have expected the Victorians to give morality and honour high preferance over economic sustainability.

Bloemfontein apology

2009-02-13T10:46:00.003+02:00

The following apology, signed by a Bloemfontein resident, appears in the "Vriend des Folks": - "I, the undersigned - -, declare herewith that I have unlawfully, unjustly, and falsely libelled Miss - -, of - - , in my letter of January 19, 1909.
I cannot say anything else of her than that she is a young lady of irreproachable good character.
I am a liar and regret and withdraw the mean and filthy language with which I have insulted her in my letter; and I, through my letter, hold myself responsible for the opening of her letters."

Eastern Province Herald - February 13, 1909

Wow, what an apology. I wonder hat the guy said to publish such a grovelling apology. The sentence which really amazes me is the one "I am a liar and regret and withdraw the mean and filthy language with which I have insulted her". Your thoughts?

Ex-President Steyn

2009-02-12T11:48:00.002+02:00

Ex-President Steyn, interviewed at his farm, Onze Rust, (on Wednesday) declared that anyone expecting a perfect Constitution would be dissapointed, but that a workable one had been devised, was to him a matter of certainty, any mistakes made being redressable.
The soul of the Constitution eas that the will of the people could be asserted at all times, as the Central Parliament can always make any alterations which experience may dictate.
The founding of the Constitution is the equality of the two languages, and what gave him confidence in the future was that the English-speaking delegates felt just as strongly on that point as the Dutch speaking.

The Union will affect a large saving in expenditure, and avoid the pressure of taxation.
The point aimed at in drawing up the Constitution was that the people, through Parliament, should be supreme, and therefore the Central Government should be the most powerful institution.
The Provincial Councils would slowly and gradually accustom the people to the change.

The South African Court of Appeal would diminish the costly appeals to the Privvy Council.
The political element in the railways would be removed as far as possible, and the avoidance of making large profits would to a large extent benefit the people of the interior.
As to the coloured franchise, the Convention felt it impossible and undesirable to force it upon three unwilling Colonies.
At the same time it would be an injustice to take the vote away from the people who had enjoyed it for 50 years.
As to the Capital, Mr Steyn said he knew the people of South Africa would not allow themselves to be kept divided for the sake of one city or another.
He would not say the arrangement come to is impracticable, but, nevertheless, he did not like it.
They must abide by the arrangement as it proves practicable, and if it is found impossible, well, the will of the people has only to declare itself.
Mr Steyn, concluding, asked the people to bear in mind that this was the first time the ideal of so many statesmen in past is on the point of being realised.

"May our people grasp their responsibility, and show that they too are imbubed with the desire to make of this, our dear South Africa, one great and strong country, where peace and prosperity shall reign."

Eastern Province Herald - February 11, 1909.

It's amazing how they imagine that "peace and prosperity shall reign" when three-quarters of the population was to be left without a vote.

The Native question

2009-02-11T16:37:00.002+02:00

Mr W P Schreiner, interviewed by the "Cape Times," reiterated the views expressed in his telegram to "The Cape," reported yesterday, but adds with reference to the native question that the great majority in South Africa are non-Europeans.
Their rights and future are not adequately safeguarded merely by maintaining the temporary privileges of the Cape native or coloured electors.
The duties of European South Africans towards other races demand a fundamental constitutional definition, while the Bill places the future of all natives and coloured persons in jeopardy by the vote of two-thirds of the Union Parliament, in which they have no fair representation.
Referring to the Provincial Councils, Mr Schreiner considers that the worthy local spirit of self government must generate through lack of uncertainty of authority.

Eastern Province Herald - February 13, 1909

Did you know that Wliiam Schreiner went to the Bedford Public School, here in the Eastern Province?

Equality of languages

2009-02-10T10:37:00.002+02:00

General Hertzog, interviewed (in Bloemfontein on Tuesday night) said the Constitution was one connected as a whole, and should be weighed as such. If there were any weak points, the Union Parliament would be supreme, and could make the necessary alterations.
What he considered was probably of the greatest importance to the whole of South Africa, was the recognition of both languages as standing on an equal footing.
He laid stress on the spirit in which this was done, the resolution being adopted unanimously by the Convention.
Considering the spirit animating South Africa today, there could be no more opportune moment for entering on a union.
The Constitution was a compromise, but a compromise which was calculated to meet the requirements of South Africa as a whole, if not each Colony in particular.
Sir John Fraser, Leader of the Constitutionalists, said it was most dangerous to express an opinion at this juncture until the matter had been well weighed by the public.

Eastern Province Herald - February 10, 1909

And so began the squabble of official languages. Including some, rejecting others.

Still Stale and Dirty

2009-02-09T16:55:00.003+02:00

A comical sidehead local story recently appeared in a Phoenix, Arizona, paper.
A retired army officer was visiting the city, and the paper mentioned stated that he had been retired on account of "mental and physical infirmities."
He demanded an explanation in lieu of which he would "lick the office."
Next morning a short article appeared, the head for which should have been, "Still Hale and Hearty," but the operator set it up, "Still Stale and Dirty."
Fortunately for the "office," the colonel left on the early morning train, otherwise this story might not have been written thusly. - "Typo Journal."

Eastern Province Herald - February 9, 1909.

Maybe the operator couldn't believe what he was reading or maybe it wasn't an acident at all.

Killed by his Chum

2009-02-09T16:18:00.003+02:00

A terrible story of annihilation of a ship's engineer by the engine's crank, is told by the "Daily Telegraph."
Shortly before the steamship Prins Willem, Royal Dutch Steamship Company, was to sail from New York on Tuesday in mail week, John Vituel, second assistant engineer, noted that an oil-cup on the crank was not quite full.
It was five o'clock, the hour for sailing, but he determined to take a great risk.
Seizing an oil can, Vituel lowered himself into the pit.
The crank was just off the centre, and when steam should be thrown into the cylinder the big arm would rise swing slowly, and descend rapidly on the other side.
Vituel had to bend almost double to reach the oil-cup, which he began filling.
In the meantime Mr Vanderleis, the chief engineer and Vituel's intimate friend - for years they had lived almost as brothers and were inseperable - had gone to his post overhead to await the starting signal from the bridge.
He was ignorant of Vituel's perilous position in the narrow pit, which is not large enough to accommodate a man except when the crank is up.
He naturally supposed that the second assistant was at his regular post.
Vituel had about half finished loading the cup when the signal "Ahead" sounded in the engine room.
The hissing and clatter and bustle of the place drowned all other sounds.
Suddenly, as Vituel was screwing the cap on the cup, the great arm against which he was pressed in the narrow hole trembled for a second, then rose.
Vituel uttered an agonising scream.
The cry pierced to the very heart of Vanderleis, and he looked down through the iron grating on which he stood.
There below him he saw his comrade Vituel standing in the pit with his arms upraised.
Above the man's head was the massive crank descending rapidly.
The sight turned the experienced engineer's brain.
With a cry of horror his hands covered his eyes, he dashed to the deck.
Even before he had left his post the crank had dropped, the end caught Vituel in the chest and dragged him down to the bottom of the pit, where, in one sweep of the big arm, the man's life was ground out.
Even if Vanderleis had remained at his post it would have been too late.
The crank would have swung down with it's own momentum.
Once, twice, three times the arm swung round, grinding Vituel to pieces, and sson it was moving so fast that one could not have counted the revolutions.
Even the victim's clothes were torn to sheds.

Eastern Province Herald - February 9, 1909

What a horrible way to go! But why on earth did the victim take such an incrediblt dangerous risk? I wonder if the incident resulted in the redesign of the oil-cup in future ships?

War against Absinthe

2009-02-06T14:59:00.010+02:00

In 1896 Privat-Livemont designed this magnificent lithograph advertising Absinthe.

A most elequent article appeared in "Le Temps" a short time ago written by the famous Administrator of the Comedie Francaise, devoted to the war againts alcoholism, absinthe in particular.

Alcoholism being the curse of France may explain why so many persons are are just now expressing their opinions upon the subject under discussion.

Deputies Buisson and Joseph Reinach, are bringing before the Chamber a Bill to prohibit the manufacture, distribution and sale of absinthe from the first of January, 1910.

Meanwhile manufacturers are working like niggers, night and day, turning out thousands of gallons; they are making the most of their short time.

Fifteen years ago Deputy Joseph Reinach proposed in the Chamber a Bill to limit the number of public-houses.

The Bill was not even discussed, thus recalling the recent fate of the Licensing Bill in the House of Lords.

There were, in 1894, no fewer than 4,500,000 houses for the sale of liquor in France; another half a million have since sprung up!

In 1894 the annual consumption of alcohol was 814,000,000 gallons, today it is more than 1,100,000,000 gallons, not counting that which escapes the revenue officers!

The worst alcoholism, says M. Jules Claretie, is that due to absinthe, the consumption of which rose between 1901 and 1904 from six and a half million gallons to nearly eight million gallons.

Alcoholism is the most powerful factor in the propogation of tuberculosis according to Dr Brouardel.

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Eastern Province Herald - February 3, 1909

.
Absinthe apparently had an incredibly high alcohol content. The figures above are unbelievable. Do you remember the Touluse Lautrec poster that was so popular in the '70s? Apparently the word "nigger" was not considered offensive at that time. Things have certainly changed since then.

Marriage at 14?

2009-02-06T14:39:00.003+02:00

A young girl who has just turned the age of 14 years, the other day applied at Rouxville for the publication of her bands of marriage with a certain young man.
I do not know (adds a correspondent) what was said to the love-sick maid; anyhow, she will have to get through life as best she can in single blessedness for at least another year, for mercifully, the law of the land decrees that a maid shall have reached the age of 15, and the swain 18, before they may be permitted to enter the blissful state of matrimony.
Perhaps the ardour of her youthful love will have cooled by that time.
We shall see anon.

Eastern Province Herald - February 2, 1909

What's the rush? Surely she would like to sow her wild oats before she ties herself down to some guy. Hug a cushion, I always say . . . ha ha ha!

Where will the Union's capital be?

2009-02-05T12:56:00.005+02:00

Clearly, if the Transvaal were to say "No union unless Pretoria is the capital," and the Cape Colony were to follow suit by saying - "No union unless Capetown is the capital," the idea of union might be postponed to the Greek Kalends.
We trust, however, that nothing of the kind will happen.
It would be an ignoble ending to a movement which has appealed in an altogether remarkable degree to the best minds in South Africa.
But the amount of feeling which has already been envoked renders it almost hopeless to expect that a decision by the National Convention on this vexed question would be accepted as final.
The obvious solution, therefore, is for the question to be submitted by common consent to the arbitrament of the people as a whole, each Colony binding itself to abide by the result whatever it may be. - "D F Advertiser."

Eastern Province Herald - February 1, 1909

Amazing how pride always comes into the equation, isn't it? What difference does it actually make? Thre are representative from the whole country there anyway. I suppose real estate values would go up wherever the capital is build. Anyone rushing off to Bhisho to buy a house? Anyone know where the Greek Kalends are?

Cat attacks child

2009-02-05T12:20:00.002+02:00

A curious case is related in connection with serious injuries which have been caused to a child, aged four years, named Schalkwyk, resident at Potchefstroom.
The child's mother returned to the house after a temporary absence to find the youngster being viciously attacked by a male cat, the animal using both teeth and claws on the face, arms and body of the screaming child.
With assistance the cat was dragged away and killed, but not before the little one had been most terribly scratched.
It is believed the child teased the cat until it became in such a dengerous mood.

Eastern Province Herald - February 2, 1909

Just goes to show, a cat is still a wild and unpredicteble animal. I wonder why the kid was teasing the cat. Were the parents hard on the kid and it was taking out its frustrations on the cat?

Kissed by 400 girls

2009-02-04T10:55:00.003+02:00

A youthful Englishman, who was a wireless operator on the ill-fated liner Republic, and was on duty for 60 hours after the collision with the Florida, is being lionised in New York.
Biographical articles are appearing in papers, and society people are entertaining him to banquets.
Last night he was forced to address an audience from the stage of the Hippodrome, and following this 400 chorus girls rushed upon the stage and kissed him.

Eastern Province Herald - February 1, 1909

So next time you want to be kissed by 400 chorus girls, get a job as a wireless operator on a ship that's about to sink, sit there for 60 hours, hire the Hippodrome when you get back and presto, you'll be the most kissable hunk in the world.

Pendower's Captain knocked over by train

2009-02-04T10:31:00.005+02:00

What might have proved to be a serious accident, but from which a fatal termination was providentially averted, occurred during the lunch hour on Saturday.
Captain D Williamson, of the steamer "Pendower," which was off-loading a cargo of mealies from Rosario at the Dom Pedro Jetty, was returning to his ship along the pathway leading to the sea-wall when, in crossing the Avontuur Railway Line at the point where it enters the bridge over the Baaken's River, he was knocked down by the passenger train for Humansdorp which left the terminus at 1.45.
The train was immediately brought to a standstill, and Captain Williamson was assisted to the Police Box at the gates of the Harbour Board ground.
Here he was attended to by Dr Oats, the Avontuur Railway doctor, who was summoned and arrived shortly after the accident, and who was fortunately able to announce that the captain's injuries only consisted of a few slight abrasions to the left side of the face.
After a short rest Captain Williamson was able to proceed to his ship.
The mechanical alarm bell, which rings when a train is approaching from either side of the bridge, was in working order, and it is rather remarkable that Captain Williamson failed to hear or see the danger.

Eastern Province Herald - January 11, 1909

So what do you think? Maybe the Captain was deaf or drunk? It was just after lunch and maybe he drunk a dop or two too many. Could the food have resulted in a slight case of inebriation?

Ladies as Boxers

2009-02-03T10:03:00.006+02:00

The following from the New York correspondent of the London "Daily Telegraph" appeared in that journal on December 25:-
The athletic sensation of the year was provided at Worcester, Massachusetts, last night, when Miss Evangeline Carring and Miss Daisy Frenier, two pretty 18 year-old girls fought a rattling bout before the Winchendon Athletic Club.
Both are known in local society as experienced boxers, but in the present case rivalry was accentuated because it was understood that both aspired in the direction of the same sweetheart.
Moreover, Worcester "sports" contributed a purse of £50.
There was a 12ft ring nicely roped in, a sanded floor, sponge-holders, referee, and all the other accessories of the prize ring.
The girls faced each other manfully, and fought four spirited rounds, when Miss Carring, who seemed over excited, declared her readiness to quit.
Being savagely taunted, however, by her opponent, Miss Carring jumped into the ring again, and agreed to a second fight of eight rounds to settle the question of supremacy.
Miss Carring battled like a vixen, and was going strong at the end of the eighth round, when the referee, fearing that Miss Frenier might be knocked out, and the police might seize an excuse for proceedings, declared the bout finished, and gave a decision for Miss Carring.
The girl fighters wore white peek-a-boo sweaters, white skirts to the knees, and openwork black stockings, and tennis shoes.
Blood was drawn, and several times each lady was sent crashing into the ropes.

Eastern Province Herald - February 4, 1909

Looks as though these American ladies were tough cookies. Don't you simply love the way the two girls "faced each other manfully" and "Miss Carring battled like a vixen"? I wonder who got the boyfriend? If I was the boyfriend I'd drop both of them for being rather idiotic.

Plucky Skipper

2009-02-03T09:34:00.004+02:00

A Grimsby trawler captain has earned distinction by saving his stranded vessel and rescuing his crew.
The trawler was the Buffalo, which reached Grimsby in mail week from Iceland.
During recent gales she stranded on the dangerous rocky coast, the crew leaving in a small boat for the land.
The skipper refused to accompany them, and after some hours, working alternately in the stokehold and ther engine room, he got the vessel off on the rising tide.
For over three hours he navigated the vessel while searching for the crew, whom he found drifting out to sea and rescued them with difficulty.
The Buffalo was slightlty damaged.

Eastern Province Herald - February 2, 1909

Why did the crew leave if there was enought time for the skipper to get things going o hs own. Something very fishy over here.

A lover in trouble

2009-01-28T17:53:00.003+02:00

Our Umtata contemporary says:- A desoicable affair is reported from a neighbouring district.
A certain young man's lightsome thoughts of love were centred on a lady in his district, but he was not alone in his affection.
There was a rival for the lady's heart and hand.
Lover No 1 was, like most peole, spending the Christmas holidays by the sea, and one day he received a note, supposedly from the lady, making an appontment.
Naturally he was on the spot right to the moment, but instead of being greeted by his lady love, three masked men pounced on him, blindfolded him, undressed their victim, tarred him, rolled him in feathers, then jumped on their horses and rode off.
The victim went to a kraal nearby for assistance, but the natives thought he was a spook and simply flew for dear life.
Then he went into the sea, and tried to wash off his garb, but the salt water simply made the tar harden, and his plight was greater than ever.
Eventually he secured the assistance of some European friends and a liberal application of paraffin and turpentine had the desired effect.
All's fair in love and war they say, but surely it isn't necessary to stoop to conquer to the extent of using the tar bucket and a pillow.

Eastern Province Herald - January 28, 1909

Poor guy. Even with a liberal application of turps and paraffin, they must have struggled for ages to get the tar off. I hope they nailed the culprits who did it. Still, it must have been very funny to watch the occupants of the kraal depart when the ghost came to visit.

The other way about

2009-01-28T17:37:00.003+02:00

A writer in the "Transvaal Leader" tells of a Boer who resolved to take a rise out of the Agricultural Department.
Having to send in a "blood-smear" of a dead ox, he subtly prepared a second with his own gore, and told his neighbours of the fool he was making of the "ingevoorde Engelschman" and his new fangled regulasies.
Some weks later, when the long envelope brought the official report, he called his neighbours to rejoice with him over the jest; and the schoolmaster was impressed to interpret the precious report, which ran somewhat as follows: "To Johannes Hendrik Petrus Boonzaier, Esq., Vlakvarkfontein.
"Sir, With reference to the blood smears furnished by you on the 15th ult., I have the honour to inform you that the one - that of an ox - shows no trace of disease.
The blood of the other slide appears to be that of a baboon in an advanced stage of senile decay. - I have, etc."

Eastern Province Herald - January 27, 1909

So the clever farmer tried to fool the authorities. His neighbours must have roared with laughter. This would have nmade a great contribution to "Was my face red".
Oh, to have been a fly on the wall.

Wireless telegraphy

2009-01-27T18:40:00.003+02:00

The rescue of the passengers on board the steamer Republic, has brought into prominence the utility of wireless telegraphy, and may hasten its adoption by the South African steamship lines.
The lack of stations, however, still forms a drawback.
Its discussion is expected shortly, but at present it is impossible to say if the new Union Castle boats will be equipped, but the value of the system for communication between steamers is recognised.

Eastern Province Herald - January 26, 1909

When these guys talk about wireless telegraphy, don't forget they were referring to Morse Code.

Passenger liner Republic sinks after collision

2009-01-27T18:28:00.004+02:00

Further intelligence regarding the collision between the White Star liner Republic and the Florida, off Nantucket Island, shows that the disaster was caused by a thick fog, neither vessel being seen until they had crashed into each other.
Four steerage passengers belonging to the Florida were killed outright by the impact.
An attempt was made to tow the disabled Republic into New York, but she sank during last night.
Fortunately no one was on board at the time, her condition being such that it was not considered safe to leave anyone on her.
The liner Baltic, with the passengers from both the Republic and the Florida (the two vessels which collided), has arrived safely at Sandy Hoek.
The Florida is making for New York without assistance, though badly damaged by the collision.

Eastern Province Herald - January 26, 1909

Collisions such as this can be easily prevented nowadays since the invention of radar, but it must have really been scary to sail in those days. I wonder if the ships were sailing "dead ahead".

Schoolboy howlers

2009-01-23T09:49:00.002+02:00

A most amusing collection of schoolboy "howlers" is published in the "University Correspondent."

Some of the best are the following:

Switzerland is a very wonderful place; you see the mountains touring among the clouds.

The chief lakes of England are Ullswater, Derwentwater, and Bayswater.

Habeas Corpus is what the people used to say to the undertakers at the time of the Great Plague of London in 1666. It means "You may have the body."

Vergil was a man who used to clean up churches.

No one knows whether, where, how, when, or why Homer was born.

The chief clause in Magna Charta was one which said that no one was to be punished without his own consent.

The Crusaders were on account of the Turks. They had taken Constantinople and were so cruel they would not let traders use the Suez Canal.

Clive conducted the Indian Mutiny and brought it to a successful conclusion.

Oliver Cromwell's home policy was that of being a good husband and a kind father; his foreign policy was to walk abroad in a big slouch hat and a very large red nose.

William the Conqueror was one of our best authors; he wrote the Doomsday Book.

John Bright is famous for an incurable disease.

A hexameter has six feet, a taximeter has five.

An Alexandrine is a form of verse so called because it was employed by Tennyson in his poem to Queen Alexandria.

Hexham is famous for the making of hexameters.

An abstract noun is the name of something that does not exist, such as goodness.

Kingsley was a great agriculturalist and wrote a book on yeast.

Oliver Cromwell was the captain of an ironclad.

Queen Elizabeth's face was thin and pale, but she was a stout Protestant.

Communicant problem - They share a dollar.

Things which are equal to other things are equal to one another.

Q: What do you know if three sides of a triangle are equal?
A: The other side must be equal also.

A thermometer is a short glass tube that regulates the weather.

An axiom is a thing that is so visible that it is not necessary to see it.

The Zenith is a quadruped living in the interior of Africa.

Chivalry is when you feel cold.

Lumbago is a mineral for making lead pencils.

Chaplets are small places of worship.

The suffrage is a place where peole suffer for their political views.

From an essay: Sailors meet with many hardships, men-or-war, and other ships.

Eastern Province Herald - January 19, 1909

I had a good chcukle reading these. One of my favourites is the suffrage.

$100,000,000 in transit

2009-01-23T09:26:00.004+02:00

Between 80 and 100 million pounds sterling is the value of the gold, silver, bank notes, and bonds which, protected by well-armed guards, were to be conveyed through Wall Street on Saturday in mail week when the National City Bank vacated the quarters it had occupied since 1812 and moved into the old Custom House.

There is extraordinary interest attached to the event not only because of the historic character of the National City Bank, but also for the reason that its new home has been converted into an impregnable financial fortress.

For years past Wall Street has fortified itself against a possible invasion by a mob or a concentrated attack by hundreds of burglars but the National City Bank was the first institution to adopt steam as the deadliest means of defence.

The vaults in which are to be deposited the vast treasure resemble the turret of a warship, and can, with the adjacent passages and rooms, be instaneously flooded by a single turn of a switch with blasts of steam dense enough to stifle an army of burglars.

Eastern Province Herald - January 18, 1909

Can you imagine how much that would mean in today's terms? What a hige amount of cash. I wonder if they would consider making me a loan?

Car charges fire

2009-01-22T10:31:00.006+02:00

Sir Hamilton Goold-Adams (right) has had (according to an article in "The Car") many exciting experiences in his motor trips through the Orange River Colony.
On one occasion His Excellency, when near Heilbron, charged a veld fire with his car.
The fire and smoke enveloped the road and veld for miles on either side - a wall of smoke and flames.
His Excellency, a man of quick resource, decided to rush the situation.
The flames became appalling as the critical spot was reached, but with speed of something like forty miles an hour the cab and its occupants went blindly into the jaws of death almost, with the clutch withdrawn.
Nobody knew what was in front and for a few moments it was an awful sensation.
But happily the crisis was soon over and the fire behind, the only personal injury being the singeing of the hair of the party.

Eastern Province Herald - January 19, 1909

What absolute stupidity! How could a man drive a car with passengers through a veld fire? Goold-Adams was Deputy Commissioner and later Lieutenant-Governor of the Orange River Colony under Governor Alfred Milner from 1901 to 1907. He was made Companion of the Most Distinguished Order of Saint Michael and Saint George in 1902 and GCMG in 1907. He also fought in the South African War, where he was mentioned in despatches and was involved with the Siege of Mafeking.
Wikipedia

Two trains collide

2009-01-22T08:53:00.002+02:00

Reuter's correspondent at New York reports that a terrible railway catastrophe has occurred on the Denver and Rio Grande Railway, in which an express train was wrecked at Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
It appears that the express train, heavily laden with passengers, was [passing through a siding at high speed when it collided with a goods train which was shunting.
The impact was terrific.
Both engines were thrown on their ends, and the pullman car on the express was telescoped, all the occupants being killed.
The scene which ensued was an appalling one, and to add to the disaster the wreckage caught alight from the fire from the engines, and people were roasted alive before they could be rescued.
The death toll is estimated at 68.

Eastern Province Herald - January 18, 1909

Amazing how bad news spreads. What a terrible way to go.

Housebreaking at Sydenham

2009-01-21T09:26:00.003+02:00

Several cases of housebreaking and theft have been brought to our notice lately, and we are informed that residents of the North End and Sydenham are also suffering from the attention of the burglars.
Several residences have been entered and stripped of bed clothes, garments, etc.
So serious has this become that people are afraid to leave their houses lest these scoundrels break in and go off with the articles named.
Their method of procedure appears to be to watch for residents going out, then quietly break in at the back, pack up what they consider desirable, and march out of the house with their bundles as if they obtained washclothes.
In some instances drawers and wardrobes have been broken open and their contents abstracted.
We hear that the police have made some arrests, and that they are on the alert.
It is to be hoped that will succeed in laying all these thieves by the heels, and putting a stop to the reign of terror which exists in that quarter.
We are afraid that the rigid economy which prevails in Government departments is proving to be very extravagant indeed.
It is pretty evident that if there were adequate police protection, these things could not go on for any length of time.
The residents in the localities named are seriously complaining, and they have a right to complain.
We hope that when the culprits are dealt with they will be made to understand that these proceedings are not to be tolerated.

Eastern Province Herald - January 19, 1909

So what's new? Seems to me these guys have been stealing for years and years. It's a South African tradition.

Dinizulu's trial

2009-01-21T08:42:00.003+02:00

Greytown, Wednesday.

At the Special Court today, Dinizulu continued the identification of guns of which there are 152 guns and nine revolvers as exhibits.

In a number of instances he denied all knowledge of weapons, which the Crown witnesses had declared belonged to him.

Dinizulu identified several as his own personal property, remarking that the one weapon was presented to his father Cetchwayo by the late Queen.

Dinizulu denied collecting guns from young Zulus after they had used them, and said the Usutu fort was all tumbled down.

Dinizulu stated that he had never given a gun to Bambatha, alleging that a witness made such statements because he (Dinizulu) had a case against him.

The prisoner also denied having enrolled as members of his bodyguard any of the rebels who had given evidence.

He denied the volley firing at the Usutu, except on one occasion during the war, when an attack was expected from the Boers, also when he defeated Daniels in a civic action.

Dinizulu also denied having armed natives at the Usutu.

Referring to one revolver he said he accepted it from a native as security for a debt.

Eastern Province Herald - January 19, 1909

Dinuzulu kaCetshwayo (1868-1913) was the king of the Zulu nation from May 29, 1884 until his death in 1913. He succeeded his father Cetshwayo, who was the last king of the Zulus to be officially recognized as such by the British. In 1906 the Bambatha rebellion broke out. After the rebellion had been put down, Dinuzulu was accused of giving orders to Bambatha to start the rebellion and was put on trial for treason. Although he steadfastly protested his innocence, he was found guilty and sentenced to four years imprisonment in March, 1908. Two years later an old friend of his, General Louis Botha, became Prime Minister of the Union of South Africa. Botha ordered that Dinuzulu be released and transported to the farm Uitkyk in the Transvaal, where he spent the rest of his life. - Wikipedia

The Mark Twain Company

2009-01-20T10:47:00.003+02:00

As briefly reported by cable, has formed himself into a corporation under the title of the Mark Twain Company of New York, with a nominal capital of $5,000 (£1,000), in order to secure to the author and his family all rights in the pseudonym.

Mark Twain is president, and his two daughters, together with his secretary, Miss Lyon, are directors.

Mr Clemens decided on this step owing to to the knowledge that the copyright of his works would soon expire, and that strangers, instead of his own kin would reap the financial benefit from his literary works thereafter.

By adopting the plan of incorporating the Mark Twain name itself as the property of a perpetual corporation, Mr Clements and his friends believe that his heirs will be in a position to restrain perpetually the publication of all of the Mark Twain books not authorised by the Mark Twain Company, even after the 20-year first copyright and the 10-year secondary copyright have expired.

Eastern Province Herald - January 19, 1909

Years later there are still huge differences in the length of time copyright protection is given. In the US, I believe and stand to be corrected, it is now 50 years and in Britain it is 100 years. There needs to be one copyright law that covers the whole world.

Rand store blown up.

2009-01-20T10:09:00.004+02:00

Johannesburg, Saturday.

A mysterious explosion occurred shortly after midnight last night in Eastern and Commissioner Streets.

A store was blown up, the roof being completely lifted, flames immediately bursting out from the body of the building.

The fire brigade succeeded in quenching the conflagration within a quarter of an hour.

Whilst considerable damage was done to property, no personal injuries occurred.

The actual cause of the explosion is not yet discovered.

Eastern Province Herald - January 18, 1909

I wonder what sort of a store it was. Obviously they had some highly explosive stock in store. To lift the roof off a building it sounds to me as though they had dynamite in storage. How did they manage to put the fire out in 15 minutes? Obviously there was no pertoleum products involved otherwise it would have taken much longer to douse the fire. What do you think?

Natives and the mines

2009-01-19T13:44:00.005+02:00

A gentleman who visited the Transkei during the holidays, informs us (says the "Cape Mercury") that a large amount of dissatisfaction still exists in the Territories at the tactics of labour recruiters, and says that public opinion is stronger than ever in favour of Government taking sole charge of the operations under a special department formed for the purpose.
The wiles employed to induce natives to sign for the mines are wonderfully devised, but the native who is once bitten is most likely - and naturally so - to be somewhat shy at the second time of asking.
What provides food for wonder is that labour recruiters themselves are so blind to their own interests.
Like everybody else, we presume, they have to consider tomorrow as well as today, and tactics that return only a temporary benefit are not likely to pay in a long run for the reason above stated.
In the real and permanent interests of themselves and their calling it would surely be advantageous to conduct their business on sound lines, and so establish a good name amongst the natives.
These latter, as a general rule, appreciate straight and fair dealings, and will have little to do with the person who has "done them down;" consequently a (Black) who has been inveigled into signing for a period of labour in the mines by all sorts of fairy tales and promises of good things, that have no existence outside the recruiter's fertile imagination and ready tongue, is chary of leaving his home for a second spell of work at the Rand.
The natives are growing more and more suspicious, and eventually it must come to this, that only those driven by the most direst necessity will go to the mines.
In summing up a case wherein a labour agent was charged with sending natives off without attestation, Mr Magennis, ARM, the other day made some interesting comments on the business of labour recruiting.
Mr Magennis said: "To school the native to the dignity of labour it is necessary that only men of integrity be permitted to recruit labourers for the Colony.
"It will be seen how necessary this standard is when a native in the witness box quite recently informed the Court that the natives never believe anything told them by the recruiters, the latter being past masters in the art of mendacious assertions."

Eastern Province Herald - January 18, 1909

Amazing what a legacy these recruiters, in their greed to get their quotas, created for future race relations in South Africa. Creating such mistrust between the races as still exists today. What is great though, is that there were people with integrity such as Magennis.

Gandhi re-arrested

2009-01-19T13:16:00.004+02:00

Gandhi, the well-known barrister and leader of the Indian community in Johannesburg, arrived in Volksrust this morning from Natal. He was detained by the authorities and brought before the local Magistrate, charged administratively for failing to produce a registration certificate under the new Asiatic Regulation Act 1908. He was deported over the border, but immediately re-entered, was re-arrested and re-charged. His case was remanded sine die and Gandhi leaves immediately for Johannesburg.

Eastern Province Herald - January 18, 1909

Interesting to read the events of his time in South Africa. So he was "charged administratively". What a transparent attempt to intimidate the poor guy.

HMS Fearless

2009-01-14T14:04:00.004+02:00

Jack Tar, Jansenville. HMS Fearless is neither a gunboat nor a torpedo boat destroyer, but a twin-screw third-class cruiser of 1,580 tons, carrying four guns.
She first arrived in Algoa Bay on Sunday, December 10, 1899, from Durban, sailed for East London on Sunday, January 28, 1900, arrived back on Tuesday, January 30, sailed for Capetown on Saturday, February 3, arrived back on Monday, February 19, and finally sailed with sealed orders for an unknown destination on Saturday, March 17, 1900.
She was under the command of Captain H R P Floyd, RN.

Eastern Province Herald - January 12, 1909.

Interesting. What's the point of this article?

Eastern Province Amateur Swimming Asociation

2009-01-14T10:53:00.003+02:00

The annual water gala of the Eastern Province Amateur Swimming Association was held at the Municipal Baths last evening before a fair attendance of spectators.
Great interest was taken in the various events, and also in the vagaries of the electric light, which appears to have a pleasant habit of going out at the most critical junctures.
Handerchiefs over the competitors eyes in the blindfold race were almost unnecessary, as the greater part of it was in the dark to the spectators as it was to the swimmers.
If there is going to be any important swimming this year trifling defects such as this will require to be remedied.
In the 100 yards open handicap F R Reynolds with a start of 10 seconds, surprised everyone by swimming away from F R Deare, the scratch champion.
If your initials are "F R" you are evidently a swimmer.
It is quite within the bounds of possibility that in future Reynolds, instead of diving at "go," will be launching away amongst the 4's, 5's or 6's.
In the 250 yards team race, L Longworth's five, the "Night Hawks," who were handicapped by one second, obtained the lead from the "Macs" in the first length and held it to the teak.
The "Scorpions" and "Deers," and other mosters not hitherto known to be amphibious, made but a poor display owing to the inferior swimming of their first relays.
The 100 yards obstacle race was the source of much amusement.
It always is.
The art of climbing over a rope net suspended above the water is a feat the accomplishment of which the most agile gymnast might envy.
On the whole the sports were very successfully carried out.

Eastern Province Herald - January 15, 1909

Well, congratulations if you managed to read this report. I've heard of strange races before, but this is the first time I have heard of a race where the competitors have been blindfolded.

Printers' Pie

2009-01-14T10:32:00.003+02:00

The mixing up of the reports of a wrestling match and a Suffragette speech is responsible for the following:
"Miss Christabel Pankhurst then rose to address the meeting, but the referee objected and said that Zbysco would wrestle with nobody who was not stripped to the waist.
'Votes for Women' was shouted by the crowd, and everybody being agreed, Miss Pankhurst was weighed in at the rinkside, removing her hat as she brought Padoubny to his knees for a moment.
The struggle continued for 30 minutes, at the end of which both combatants retired for a wipe down, which was instantly met with the cry of 'Go home and cook your husband's supper.'
Miss Pankhurst warming to her work, and speaking with the utmost defiance, sneered at Padoubny, who got a good wrist hold, and forced Zbysco in a corner where Lloyd-George was looting the hen roosts.
'What,' she cried, 'was the Government going to do?'
She paused for an answer, and the referee called out 'a foul,' warning Padoubny that he would never give a woman a vote.
The crowd became excited and Hackenschmidt broke all records by lifting Miss Pankhurst's 814 lbs." - "London Opinion."

Eastern Province Herald - January 16, 1909

Well, if you believe this is a genuine mistake . . . No doubt this makes very funny reading, but the chances of it working out so conveniently readable by accident makes me wonder if it was not rather an opportunistic attempt by someone to discredit Miss Pankhurst.

Naartje or citrus nobilis

2009-01-13T16:35:00.006+02:00

It may not be known to the ordinary individual that the botanical name for "naartje" is"citrus nobilis."
When the first shipment of this delicious fruit arrived in England some years ago from the Cape no one there had the slightest idea what a "naartje" was; now, however, the word is generally used in Europe instead of the less understood scientific name.

Eastern Province Herald - January 12, 1909

Oh how I love naartjies, specially the loosed skin variety. Somehow their sweetness is so appealing. I notice the spelling has changed since the old Dutch influence days. Strange, but "naar" in Afrikaans means "queasy" and the letters "tje" when added to the end of a word implies "small". So translated it means "little queasy". The name is Afrikaans and comes from the Tamil word "nartei," which means "citrus". Apparently the word has been used in South Africa since 1790. Our lovable naartjie is also known as "citrus reticulata".

Destroying crows

2009-01-13T16:23:00.002+02:00

At the recent meeting of the Fort Beaufort and Adelaide Farmers' Association a discussion took place on the advisability of destroying crows, which some members asserted did a great deal of harm.
Others, however, thought that the harm they did was more than counter-balanced by the good.
Mr Roberts thought it might be a great mistake to destrot the crows, and perhaps upset the "balance of nature."
The Karroo veld had in some parts become overrun with mice.
This was due to poisoning jackals; meercats and muishonds, hawks and owls were destroyed with the jackals and the mice left to breed undisturbed.
The mice had ruined many a morgen of veld and were increasing,

Eastern Province Herald - January 14, 1909

If man had realised so long ago that he should not mess with nature, how come we are only now starting to do something about it.

Locust swarm

2009-01-05T16:04:00.002+02:00

A swarm of locusts, extending about two miles, passed over a portion of the district at the end of the week, says the Aliwal paper, but so harassed were they by locust birds that, luckily for the farms lying in their course, they were never able to settle.
These locust birds are very numerous, one farmer when coming into town on Saturday last passing a flock which he reckoned must have numbered a couple of thousand, adn which in the distance looked like a flock of sheep.

Eastern Province Herald - January 4, 1909

Locusts must have a death wish. I remember a friend of mine drove through a locust storm between Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg in the 1970's. His front of his car was just a mess of dead locusts.

Fete on North End Lake

2009-01-05T15:43:00.003+02:00

A large crowd assembled on the spacious banks of the Prince Alfred's Park Lake last night, and appreciated to the full the splendid programme arranged by the P A P Sailing and Rowing Club. The scene on the Lake with illuminated boats passing to and fro throughout the evening was very pretty, and those who patronised the gala spent a most enjoyable evening.
The Bijou orchestra opened the long and varied list with a selection, followed by a song, "Alone on a Raft," by Mr W Browne.
Mr Henry evoked great applause with his comic song, and Mr Arthur King, in the same strain, proved irresistible.
The banjo band, led by Mr Stuart, played selections, the melodious notes sounding splendidly on the moonlit shore.
The Purple Pierrots gave a delighful turn, their comicalities and splendid vocalisation eliciting in turn roars of laughter and hearty cheers.
Algoa the Boneless Wonder contorted in wonderful fashion, and altogether the Committee of the Club are to be heartily commended for the delightful treat they provided.
When it is taken into consideration that no charge is made for admission and that for some months past they have delighted vast crowds of Bayonians with regattas, fireworks, sports and other attractions, it will be admitted that the Club has justified its existence.
As to the future, there is no reason why the lake should not become the home of yacht racing.
With plenty of water, the inter-port yacht contest and other races of that order could be witnessed from start to finish on the circular course provided by the area of something like ninety acres.

Eastern Province Herald - January 7, 1909

What a pity our city fathers don't see the tourism potential of North End Lake.

Plenty of Elephants

2008-12-30T10:34:00.004+02:00

"In my opinion there is not the remotest possibility of the elephant becoming extinct in Africa."
Thus Mr F C Selous, the famous big game hunter, (said) to a representative of the London "Daily Mail," who met him at his Surrey home.
"I read the despatch from Mombasa published in the 'Daily Mail' with great interest and some surprise," he said.
"It states that 8,000 elephants have been rounded up by hunters in the Lado Enclave; that, these men are shooting the male elephants; and that at Entebbe, in four months, two hunters had made £5,000 out of their trip.
"Frankly, I have never seen or heard of a herd of 8,000 elephants. The largets herds rarely number 400.
"I cannot understand the motive of shooting male in preference of cow elephants.
"Ivory from the bull elephant is inferior. Bull tusks fetch about 12/- a pound and a pair might realise £100, but cow tusks realise a guinea a pound and sell for considerably more the pair."
Wherever the British flag flies in Africa, north and south of the Zambezi, the elephant is protected.
In Uganda a big game licence for a year costs £50. It's holder may only shoot two elephants in that period, and the number of other animals he may shoot are scheduled.
Similar schedules are used in Rhodesia.
"Taking South Africa as a whole, there has been no decrease in elephants during the last 25 years. They are no more likely to become extinct than is the giraffe."

Eastern Province Herald - January 1, 1909

Look what happened to the huge bison herds in the United States and also what happened to the Addo elephants when Major Pretorius was contracted to get rid of them. Thank goodness someone woke up when there were 29 left. Today we have a huge tourist industry and hundreds of elephants because they decided to protect, rather than to kill, the huge animals.
Amazing how they used to look at them in terms of tusks and money, rather than admire their value as magnificent creatures.

Harbour Board Retrenchment

2008-12-30T09:57:00.004+02:00

We learn on good authority that in additition to the clerks who have already received a month's notice of dismissal from the Harbour Board a number of other employees in different departments have also been notified that their services will not be required after January, when the Cape Government Railway Department will assume control of all the Harbour Boards in the Colony.
Altogether the number of dismissals totals about 40, and naturally the Harbour Board employees are somewhat alarmed at the drastic nature of the retrenchment.
It is to be hoped that the Harbour Board Commissioners were consulted before this step was taken, otherwise we may have a repetition of the previous blunder when the Government gave notice to the whole of the invoicing staff, a body of trained clerks whose services were absolutely essential, and whose work could not possibly be undertaken by the Railway Department.
Fortunately the prompt action taken by the local Traffic Manager and the Harbour Board Commissioners rectified the error.
Forty men is a big reduction to make in one fell swoop, and while sympathising with the Government in their efforts to cut down expenditure we do hope they will not go so far as seriously to impair the efficient working of the port.

Eastern Province Herald - December 29, 1908

What a lovely New Years present from the Government. Forty people lost their jobs just like that. It must have had a huge impact in the small town of Port Elizabeth. I suppose it's the same that's happening right now all over the world. Money, is the curse of mankind - but you try live without it.

Slave Trade in East Africa

2008-12-29T16:23:00.005+02:00

The slave trade is becoming increasingly active in the southern part of the Red Sea and in East African waters.
This is attributed entirely to the reduction of the British squadrons in the waters.
From Aden to to the Mozambique the British flag is nowadays very seldom seen at all.
On the other hand, the German cruisers are increasing in number in these waters and pay frequent visits to ports where the White Ensign was formerley the only familiar naval flag.
The secretary of the British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society during mail week informed a Press representative that there was no doubt that slavery was on the increase despite the fact that Mr McKenna in the House of Commons declared that after making inquiries he was led to believe that there had been no increase in the slave trade.
"Just about the time that Mr McKenna made this statement," he continued, "I received news from our Aden correspondent that there had been a great increase in the slave trade, owing to the fact that the guard ship now stationed at Aden, HMS Philomel, is absolutely out of date, slow and useless.
"While the Philomel can only do about 10 knots the slave dhows, which race in and out of the ports, can do nearly 15.
"There is another useless guardship at Berbera, on the Somaliland coast which communicates with the Philomel by wireless telegraphy.
"The movements of these ships are known to all the slave dealers, who pursue their trade with impunity."

Eastern Province Herald - December 28, 1908

Good grief. Is there no good news from that immoral part of the world? From trading in slaves they have now progressed to piracy. What's next? Suicide bombers?

Humewood sports

2008-12-29T15:05:00.002+02:00

The Humewood beach has lost none of its attractions, and that, indeed, given good weather, the vast majority of Bayonians will never weary of the delightful tram ride there, the grateful shades close to the sea, and the hundred and one other items which tend to a pleasant holiday, was shown on Saturday, when from early in the morning till quite late in the afternoon great crowds assembled there.
Scattered as they were, it was hardly possible to estimate the number of visitors, but some idea may be gleaned from the fact that the admirable electric tramway service conveyed quite 6,000 people to the scene of an interesting afternoon's sport.
The programme was entirely for the children, but the grown-ups seemed to revel in the contests equally with the youngsters.
The band of the PAVG discoursed some fine selections, and the pavilion, running the entire length of the sandy race track, afforded ample accommodation for many hundreds of ladies, being sheltered against the north-west wind which was blowing.
The arrangements were in the hands of a small committee at the head of which was Mr T J Simpson, while amongst the other indefatigable workers we noted Messrs J Henderson, E Sytner, H Hirsch, T Morgan, A E Smith, J Dewar, R Alexander, Capt Clift and Messrs Paton and Hurr.

Eastern Province Herald - December 28, 1908

Nice to know the City Fathers looked after the kids at Humewood Beach each year. Now we have fireworks that scare the heck out of the poor animals in the area.

Paterson Principal's report

2008-12-24T12:47:00.004+02:00

The principal's report was submitted by Mr R Gallant, and read as follows:
We have met again this evening to bring to a close another 12 months school work, to render an account of our stewardship, to bid farewell to the old year, and to enjoy a period of rest in anticipation of starting afresh in the New Year.
The daily work of the school has been regularly and pleasantly carried on throughout the year without a break.
The average attendance has been equal to any former year except during the closing quarter when there has been a slight falling off, doubtless due to the prevailing depression and the consequent difficulty on the part of parents to meet the payment of school fees.
My two assistants, Mrs Sayster and Miss Thumler, as in former years, have thrown themselves heartily into the work, and have done their utmost to aid in keeping the school at its former standard of attainment, and striving after something higher.
The reports of the annual inspection were very encouraging.
A special feature in this year's work was the new interest shown by pupils in the competitive examination for singing in the tonic solfa notation.
Stimulated by the fact that one of our pupils, who, on a previous occasion obtained a junior certificate, nine pupils entered this year for the examination, with the satisfactory result that four boys and four girls passed.
The certificates to the successful pupils were formally presented to them at an interesting social meeting, and in the presence of teachers, parents and children.
In the absence in Europe of our former Superintendent (the Rev W Dower) the presentation was made by a former Principal of this school under whom the present staff received their education and training.
Mr Roughton, the drill instructor, has given the children instruction and exercise in drill, a part of the work which always receives enthusiastic attention. Through the generous kindness of the Board, our pupils enjoyed the privilege of a free visit to the Agricultural Show for one afternoon, which was not only enjoyable, but educational.
There has been a marked improvement in the payment of school fees, and yet there are still parents quite able to pay the very small school fees, who make good promises to meet this obligation, but who fail to do so, which often places the teachers in a very unpleasant position.
It ought to be known to all the parents that teachers have strict orders to send pupils home who fail to bring their fees with them.
During the year various much needed improvements have been made to the school's premises, which have served to lessen the anxieties and responsibilities of the staff. We look forward to the New Year with hopefulness and courage.

Eastern Province Herald - December 24, 1908

Poor parents didn't pay then and still don't pay now. Education should be free for all who can't afford to pay.

South End charity

2008-12-24T11:38:00.005+02:00

Letter to the Editor.

A work, the far-reaching influence of which will never be fully known, is being done in the quietest and most undemonstrative way in the South End (Port Elizabeth) at the present time.

Among the poor there is undoubtedly a very great deal of suffering and this is increased through the hard circumstances in which a great number are placed owing to the scarcity of work, consequent upon the commercial depression.

Among the poorest in this part of the town there are many who in times of sickness urgently need the services of a trained and skillful nurse, but are unable to pay even the smallest fee.

For some few months, Nurse Williams, a certificated lady, who was for 11 years the matron of the Government Hospital at St Helena, has been quietly devoting herself to assisting those who need help, such as she can give.

From personal knowledge we know that Nurse Williams goes only to those who cannot afford to engage the services of a nurse, in fact, she only goes to the poor, and that without any distinction as to creed, class or colour.

That they are poor, that they are suffering, is sufficient to move her heart and enlist her practical sympathy, nor will she receive the smallest renumeration from her patients, under any circumstances.

In a large district like the South End there are many chronic cases of poverty and sickness, and to some of these Miss Williams has been an angel of mercy, coming to relieve them in their hour of direst need.

For some time, Nurse Williams received no financial assistance whatever, but about three months ago, a small Consultative Committee consisting of the Revs L Skey, T Aitkins, S Workman, A W Cragg and Miss Bartlett, was formed, which undertook to advise as to the work, and in some way to be responsible for the modest sum of £50 per annum, £36 of which is to be paid to Miss Williams and the remainder to be reserved for medical requisites.

The rent of the cottage which Miss Williams occupies is generously paid by the members of St Peter's Church.

From the various parts of the town friends have sent subscriptions, but we feel convinced there are many more who would gladly help in such a work if they knew of our needs.

Fifty pounds a year may seem a very small amount, but in these times, when there are so many calls, even this sum is difficult to raise in a district like the South End.

May we then appeal to those who can help, to remember our needs at this Christmas Season, and so enable us to continue a work which means so much to many whose lives are full of suffering and poverty.

Amounts, however small, will be thankfully received by the undersigned, or by the Hon Secretary and Treasurer, Miss Bartlett, 24 Rock Street, South End.

Sined by Arthur W Cragg

O W Laurie Skey.

Eastern Province Herald - December 21, 1908

Amazing that this woman, a qualified Matron, would come to Port Elizabeth from St Helena island to help the poor sick peole of South End. One wonders where the locals were and why they were not providing such a service. These people were obviously not sick enough to be hospitalised, but still needed help to alleviate their suffering. I wonder if there is anyone who can throw some light on this wonderful woman and if there is a memorial anywhere in the city?

Festive Season's Greetings

2008-12-24T09:38:00.003+02:00

Here's wishing all readers of "It's been 100 Years" a joyful festive season. Because of all the public holidays, half days etc, publcation of my blog will be sporadic until things return to normal in 2009.
Until then, to those readers in the southern hemisphere, enjoy the lazy, hot, balmy days and to those in the north, well, all I can say is enjoy the cold and snuggle up close.
Cheers and Happy Holidays.
Ivor.

Grey Institute Preparatory School

2008-12-19T10:53:00.007+02:00

The annual prize distribution of the Grey Institute Preparatory School took place yesterday afternoon in the Loubser Hall, in the presence of a good number of parents and friends.
The chair was occupied by Mr W Macintosh, MLA, and others present were Mrs Macintosh, Dr Muir, Superintendent General of Education, Mr C F Kayser, Archdeacon Wirgman, and Drs Edwards and Leith.
The report was submitted by the head mistress (Miss A H Dawes), and was read as follows:
I beg to submit for your consideration the first annual report of this school.
The school was founded at the beginning of this year; the nucleus consisting of 24 boys, many of whom came from the Grey Institute High School, the lower standards of which the School Board decided should cease to be attached directly to it.
It was generally acknowledged that there was a great need for such a school for little boys, organised on the lines of the syllabus of the Education Department of the Colony, and yet distinct from the High School itself.
The numbers increased rapidly until the present total of 32 pupils was reached, grouped in Standards 1 and 2 and the sub-standards.
The first inspection by Mr Milne, Inspector of this District, took place in September, and was eminently satisfactory.
It is my endeavour to make this school an efficient feeder to the Grey Institute High School,and for this purpose our methods and teaching proceed as nearly as possible on the lines adopted in that school.
Thus prepared, our pupils will find no time wasted in accomodating to the conditions of the senior school.
With reference to the future, I feel no doubt that with the increasing support of parents, the school will continue to justify its existence by a career, prosperous both educationally and financially.

The proceedings opened by the scholars singing a verse of the National Anthem, and following this the pupils of Standards 2 and 3 gave a very creditable exhibition of arm exercises, as also did the pupils of Standard 1 and Sub-standard B.
Masters J Rosenberg and T Markin gave an interesting recitation entitled "Town and Country Mouse," which was followed by action songs called "Grahamstown Train" and "Little Horse," by the pupils of Standard 1 and Sub-standard B.
Human chair drilling was very enjoyable, whilst Masters H Harris, W Bonner and R Lambson nicely sang "The Hedge Roses," and a number of drilling exercises were given in fine style, proving that the children were well trained.
Master W Bonner nicely recited "Home is Best," and Master R Haigh gave "My Shadow."
Several part songs were rendered, the children acquitting themselves in a capable manner.
A very interesting item was the recitation entitled "Little Workers," by the pupils of Standard 1 and Sub-standard B.

Eastern Province Herald - December 18, 1908

To the best of my knowledge and having consulted with one of the pupil's parents, I'm surprised the school did not celebrate the event in any way. A centenary is an occasion worth celebrating. Makes me wonder if they even knew the school was founded in 1908. Any comments?

Native education

2008-12-19T10:22:00.004+02:00

From Cala, in the Transkei, it is reported that Col Levey, member of the House of Assembly for Tembuland, met a large gathering of native electors yesterday, when education, labour and other questions were keenly discussed.
Col Levey asserted that there was much in the present system of native education that was a menace to the country.
The salvation of the natives depended upon labour in the proper cultivation of the soil.
He paid a tribute to what had been accomplished by missionary enterprise, and condemned the failure of all Governments hitherto to establish a proper system of native education.
The meeting lasted several hours, and concluded with an enthusiastic and unanimous vote of confidence in Col Levey.

Eastern Province Herald - December 17, 1908

Can you imagine the difference it would have made to the situation here in South Africa if the educators of 100 years ago had given the Blacks an equal education?
As it is, they left us having to play a huge game of catch-up. So far it's not going so good.
Let us hope the South African Governement will start putting into practise what they preach, specially in the rural areas. What do you think?

German loose talk

2008-12-18T17:51:00.002+02:00

Captain Edward Upton, the officer commanding the Eastern Mounted Brigade column of the Army Service Corps, told the members at Chelmsford the other day that when taking the waters recently in Germany he dined with a number of German officers, and in the course of conversation mentioned that he came from Chelmsford.
A major of artillery said" "Oh! I know Chelmsford; that's in my district."
Captain Upton asked him what he meant, and the major explained that every German officer had a part of England to know thoroughly, and that he had to be conversant with the direction and elevation of all roads, and the situation of wells and forage and provision stores.
His "district," he said, extended from Chelmsford to Brentwood.

Eastern Province Herald - December 10, 1908

Well, that German major was either incredibly stupid or incredibly indiscreet. How naive to tell your enemy you were spying on them. Interesting to note this was just a few years before the outbreak of World War One. Shows the Germans were planning to invade England. Jawol, no fine!

Hartley's Bioscope Company in town

2008-12-18T17:26:00.005+02:00

In spite of the counter attractions at the Feather Market and Town Hall there was a large attendance at the Opera House last evening, when Hartley's Bioscope Company gave their first entertainment of moving pictures.
The machine is manipulated by an experienced electrician, and the programme submitted was one of the most enjoyable seen locally.
The light was splendid, and there is no flicker to tire the eyes.
A most interesting series of pictures was that illustrating the famous Drury Lane pantomine entitled "Ali Baba and thr Forty Thieves."
The films are beautifully coloured, and when the final scene was thrown on the screen there was loud applause.
Another very interesting picture was that of the Indian Review, which was very clear, and gave one a good idea of military training in that part of the Empire.
The comic pictures are far above the average and cause hearty laughter, the best being "Fun After the Wedding," "A Jealous Husband," "The Plank Mystery of the Cab," "The Energetic Woman," and the "Old College Chums."
The exhibition was a highly successful one, and was enjoyed by all present.
Tonight there will be an entire change of programme, which will include "The Passion Play," The Prodigal Son," and "The Struggle for Life."
The prices are popular, and there is no reason why there should not be a large attendance again this evening.

Eastern Province Herald - December 12, 1908

Well, you've got to admit, they certainly had some strange titles to the films, but hey, in those pioneering days they were probably considered acurate descriptions of the content.
I wonder what "The Plank Mystery of the Cab" was all about?
"A Jealous Husband" is certainly self explanatory but "Fun After the Wedding" is open to interpretation.
Do you think it could refer to a bit of "hanky-panky"?
As for "The Energetic Woman," excuse me, what was that all about?
What do you think?

Bloodcurdling snake attack

2008-12-17T11:26:00.003+02:00

Last evening (says Wednesday's "Argus") a well known Government official from Orangia was involved in a brief drama, which at one time threatened to be of the most bloodcurdling description.
To quote his own words: "I was walking from St James's (near Cape Town) in the moonlight, and became aware of a man and two young ladies in the road before me. Suddenly one of the latter, leaving her party, flung herself into my arms, entreating me 'to save her.'
She was trembling and in a state of collapse.
I said I would certainly save her, and advanced towards the man, who seemed to be dragging the other lady off the path.
Swinging my camera round by its strap, I prepared to blot him out with a blow, when someone shreiked 'Don't; it's a snake. Its bitten me!'
There, sure enough, in the roadway was a slender, sinuous monster, on which I instantly cast a stone.
The man, I observed, was shaken with terror, and the snake, well - it turned out to be an artificial hair-pad, such as ladies are said to use, and a dependent string had caught the heel of the fair pedestrian - whom I had the honour of rescuing from an untimely end!
I intend to present the specimen to the South African Museum and have provisionally christened it the 'pad-slang.'
The startled trio are fresh from Home, but have thus had an early introduction of the perils of 'Darkest Africa.'"

Eastern Province Herald - December 17, 1908

Well, slithering shivers, matey! I wonder if they were blonde?

Knysna fire

2008-12-17T11:18:00.002+02:00

On Thursday afternoon a fire was discovered at Messrs Thesen and Co Ltd, wood store at the Knysna Jetty. Luckily, it had not made much way before it was promptly discovered, and willing hands promptly put it out.
Only a few spokes were burnt.
Another quarter of an hour it would have been a very serious affair.
Some thousands of finished spokes are stored there, and with the strong wind blowing, they would soon have been burnt, and the loss would not have been covered as they are uninsured.

Eastern Province Herald - December 15, 1908

It beats me how can someone who deals in wood products did not have insurance coverage.

Dodge the income tax

2008-12-16T15:16:00.002+02:00

On Thursday morning, prior to Mr Levey's meeting, says the Eliott (in the Eastern Cape) paper, a native urchin bearing on his shoulders a "banner with a strange device," was to be seen patrolling the Eliott streets beating discordant notes out of a parafin tin with a stick.
After visiting several stores to enable his "banner" to be read a couple of native policement escorted him to the office where he was relieved of his musical box and sent on his way.
This he proceeded to do, showing all and sundry his notice, evidently conceived by a practical joker, which read: "Come to Levey's meeting and hear about the spinning wheel, and how to dodge the income tax. Admission free."
Other inscriptions were added on its journey, but the youngster continued his tour of the town, apparently, oblivious of any humour.

Eastern province Herald - December 17, 1908

Well, apparently the spinning wheel was used to spin a humorous yarn, but the messenger didn't get it.

Expensive petticoat

2008-12-16T15:07:00.003+02:00

A woman named Thalberg, who died in a Paris asylum in mail week, had, in spite of all that could be done to prevent her, worn her petticoat day and night since her admission to the institution a year ago. When the petticoat was examined it was found to contain £5,000 in bank-notes and a cheque for £1,000 sewn into the lining.

Eastern Province Herald - December 15, 1908

Boy, at least she saved on the bank charges. I wonder if the year-old cheque was honoured?

Fatal explosion at Dum Dum factory

2008-12-12T17:12:00.002+02:00

Reuter's correspondent in Calcutta telegraphs that an explosion occurred in the laboratory of the Dum Dum arms factory, where workmen were uncapping old cartridges.
Seven natives were killed and 30 injured.

Eastern Province Herald - December 8, 1908

Dum Dum bullets were notorious because of the bodily damage they caused when they struck their target. Not only were victims badly hurt, but the bullet, which exploded on impact, caused the terrible mutilation of the victims. It's not surprising they were banned. Both the British and the Boers were accused of using the bullets during the South African War of 1899-1902.

Grey Institute Swimming Club

2008-12-12T16:32:00.003+02:00

In spite of the unfavourable weather there was a good attendance of ladies and gentlemen at the bath last evening to witness the first aquatic carnival of the Grey Institute Boys High School Swimming Club.
The entries for the various events were large, while the handicapping was excellent, which reflects credit on the official concerned.
Operations opened with a diving competition, and an excellent exhibition was given, the event being won by quite a youndster, named Jack Matthews.
S James won the 50 yards handicap for boys under 14, and for boys over 14 for the same distance L Clift showed his best form and gained premier position.
In the 50 yards breast stroke handicap for boys under 14, S James repeated his previous performance, while in the bobbing for corks competition, which caused much amusement, H Nash secured the first prize.
The 100 yards handicap for Old Greys proved a good race, and was won by the scratch man, L Longworth.
B Blenkinsop captured the 100 yards handicap open to the school, and J Reynolds found the North Pole first.
The following were the results:
Diving competition. Two positions, springboard and high:- Jack Matthews, 2, C Saunders.
Also competed: Jim Matthews, H Nash, L Clift, R Bridger, R Harris and Blenkinsop.

Eastern Province Herald - December 11, 1908

I wonder how J Reynold found the North Pole in the Port Elizabeth swimming pool? Any suggestions? Also, can you imagine if bobbing for corks was an Olympic event? The way things are going nowadays I wouldn't be surprised at all if it became the main event of the day.

The Quigney ghost

2008-12-11T11:00:00.004+02:00

The look-out for the Quigney (East London) ghost is still being maintained. Last night (says Tuesday's Dispatch) quite a number of people, some of them women, were to be seen at midnight sitting or standing up against the walls of the houses in Signal Street, and all with their gaze directed across the dark valley towards the gaol.
The Town Hall clock tolled the witching hour of 12, the arc lights in Fleet Street were extinguished, the sky was dark save where the faint light of the moon glimmered through a jagged rent in the clouds - what more could a respectacle ghost desire?
Yet, though the conditions were all that could be wished, and the spectators were becoming tired of their long watch, the ghost most inconsiderately failed to appear.
True, a weird sound from the neighbourhood of the Quigney stream broke the solemn stillness of the midnight air and for a moment the hearts of the spectators stood still, but the eerie wail was merely the love-song of the harmless, necessary cat.
It was a cruel disappointment!

Eastern Province Herald - December 7, 1908

I would sue the person who arranged the show with the no-show ghost. Ghosts of today are just not as reliable as those of the past. What a shame, they're giving the old-timers a bad reputation.

French Admiral suspended

2008-12-11T10:53:00.003+02:00

Vice Admiral Germinet has been relieved of the command of the French Mediterranean Fleet, following his reprimand by the Premier for granting a newspaper interview on the condition of the Navy.

Eastern Province Herald - December 7, 1908

So much for the transparency of the French Government. It seems to me that everyone is scared to talk to the Press. I'm so sick and tired of being given the run-around by government officials.

Some reference, what . . .

2008-12-11T10:46:00.002+02:00

On leaving his situation a Parktown (Johannesburg) gardener asked for a written reference and received the following from his employer: "I am able to state that Mr ____ has been in my services for three years, during which he has got more out of my garden than any man who has worked for me."

Eastern Province Herald - December 9, 1908

And I'm sure he wasn't talking about weeds, either.

Cross Channel flight

2008-12-10T14:36:00.002+02:00

(From London it is reported) Messrs Moon and Brabazon have completed some most sucessful aeroplane trials, and have asked for an escort of the fastest destroyer in the fleet on a projected cross Channel flight.

Eastern Province Herald - December 7, 1908

So, the race to be the first to cross the Channel is on.

Port Elizabeth Jewish Orphan Aid Society

2008-12-10T10:26:00.005+02:00

The Liedertafel Hall was the scene of a large gathering last evening, the occasion being a charity concert and dramatic entertainment promoted by the Port Elizabeth Jewish Orphan Aid Society in aid of the South African Jewish Orphanage, Johannesburg.
In connection with the latter body, it may be mentioned that throughout South Africa great interest is being taken in the Institution on account of its being the only one of its kind in the country.
It is maintained by subscriptions, but the calls on the funds of late have been considerable, and in consequence, the members of the local Aid Society promoted the entertainment last evening to give what assistance they could.
It is noble work, and deserves sympathy from all sections of the community, and those responsible for the programme will receive grateful thanks for their kind interest taken in the Jewish orphans of South Africa.
As to last evening's menu, the items were confined to members of the Jewish Faith, and they are to be congratulated on the great success attained.
Every number was greatly applauded, and each artiste did her or his share in a manner which reflects credit upon their capabilities.
The proceedings opened with a nicely rendered pianoforte solo by that talented youngster, Master A Hallis, who carried his audience away with his masterful touch on the instrument.
Miss D Joseph followed with the singing of a coon song, which delighted all present, and she scored an immense success.
Misses B Dember and P Hirschberg were equally successful with a Welsh song, and left a good impression of their vocal powers.
Master L Lazarus has a fine memory, and gave a recitation of an interesting character; whilst the skirt dance by the Misses C Phillips and G Silbermann proved a great hit, and was one of the most entertaining items submmitted, while the last named also rendered a vocal item in a capable manner.
The first part of the programme terminated with a tableau entitled "Bubbles," which was excellently portrayed by Master N Rogaly.
After the interval the balance of the evening was occupied with a comedy by L Robenham, entitles "Our Betty."
The characters were the three sisters Primrose (Misses A Bernstein, B Dember and R Harris) Mrs Robert Williams (Miss S Richardson), Miss Katie Oldacre (Miss G Silbermann), and Our Betty (Miss D Joseph).
All took their parts particularly well, and the comedy proved interesting, reflecting great credit on the amateurs.
A most enjoyable evening terminated with the rendering of the National Anthem.

Eastern Province Herald - December 10, 1908

Sadly the Port Elizabeth Jewish community has shrunk from 1,600 families in the 1960s to about 300 individuals now, composed mainly older people. The population continues to shrink.

Port Elizabeth gambling den raided

2008-12-09T14:52:00.002+02:00

Last evening about nine o'clock, considerable sensation was caused through a raid made by the members of the local detective force on premises in Evatt Street, which were alleged to be used as a Chinese gambling den.
The doors were locked, but the officers gained an entrance through the window and there ensued at once a mad scamper to escape.
A tight cordon had, however, been arranged, and 10 Chinamen were caught practically red-handed, the apparatus for the game also being seized with other indications of the illegal use to which the room was being used.
The accused were brought to the charge office, and up till a late hour last night crowds of their friends were in the vicinity arranging bail, etc.

Eastern Province Herald - December 7, 1908

I wonder if that's the same building that used to house the Silver Lantern. I remember going there with my folks on many occasions. You use to enter the building, which was at one stage just a regular double-storied house, go up some rickety stairs to a room with the most basic Formica top tables and chairs. From upstairs we used to hear the sound of Radio China or similar station being played in the kitchen. It was quaint, though, and the food was pretty good.

Customs House deemed unsafe

2008-12-09T14:33:00.004+02:00

Owing to the subsidence caused by the undermining of the foundations through the recent floods, the Customs House, the walls of which have shown ominous cracks since the inundation, is deemed to be unsafe, and, therefore, arrangements are being made for the removal of the various staffs to other quarters.
The building will be thoroughly examined, when it is thought that serious defects will be discovered, and it is feared that the tower will have to be removed.
The Collector of Customs will be located in the Harbour Board offices; the examining offices will be located at the baggage warehouse, and other portions of the staff in the present King's warehouse; while the Income Tax offices, which were recently opened in the Custom's House, will be transferred to the Magistrate's Court building.

Eastern Province Herald - December 8, 1908

The Customs House stood for many years until a fire partially destroyed the interior in the 1970s. Then the bright sparks in the Municipality decided to tear it down. What a disastrous decision, because we lost an absolute gem. It makes my blood boil when I think about it.

The Suffragettes

2008-12-08T17:04:00.004+02:00

Mr Lloyd George addressed a meeting of the Women's Liberal Federation, at which a resolution was passed to the effect that Mr Asquith's Reform Bill must enfranchise women.
When Mr Lloyd George attempted to begin his speech he was shouted down by Suffragettes, who produced an indescribable uproar.
The Women Liberals who organised the meeting were most indignant at the tactics of the Suffragettes, and a number of the latter were ejected. This added to the clamour.
Mr Lloyd George's appeal for order was useless, the only effect being to bring roars from every part of the vast hall.
Mr Lloyd George eventually managed to say a few sentences, in which he reiterated the promise that Mr Asquith's forthcoming Electoral Reform Bill would include a clause conferring women's franchise.
He remarked that the dissolution of Parliament was not so dim and distant as some thought, but the Liberals had accounts to settle, and would demonstrate to the Lords that the commons were not so impotent as they imagined.
Several of the Suffragettes chained themselves to the pillars and seats, and one used a dog whip on the ejectors, who used great violence.
Among those ejected was Mr H W Nevinson, correspondent of the "Daily Chronicle" in Natal and the Transvaal during the Boer War.

Eastern Province Herald - December 7, 1908

Indeed they lived in interesting times, I say.

Milton anniversary

2008-12-08T16:50:00.004+02:00

John Milton, the greatest English poet, was born December 9, 1608.
Next Wednesday is thus the 300th anniversary of his birthday, and it is only fitting that such an occasion should not be passed over in silence in any English speaking place. A lecture is announced to be given tonight at 8.30 in the Loubser Hall under the auspices of the PE Teachers Association on "John Milton," and this will form a small tribute to the memory of a man to whom not only English literature, but also English Protestantism and the English constitution are deeply indebted. The lecturer is the Rev. W Friend, whose name is a guarantee that the address will be worthy of its subject. The lecture commences at 8.30 and is free.

Eastern Province Herald - December 7, 1908

So this year would have been his 400 birthday. I wonder how many people are familiar with his work now. Even though the population has grown substantially and communications have grown immensley, I bet less people know about him now than any other time.

Uitenhage lighting

2008-12-04T10:12:00.004+02:00

A public meeting of ratepayers, called by the Uitenhage Town Council, was held in the Town Hall last evening, when there was a large attendance of ladies and gentleman.
The chair was occupied by the Mayor, Mr H Ward, who was supported on the platform by several prominent Uitenhage gentlemen.
The meeting was called especially for the confirmation of the tender of Mr Bellad Ellis accepted by the Town Council for the lighting of the town with electricity.
After the Chairman had explained the scheme, and in so doing, said it was high time that the town was adequately lighted, as in his opinion it was the principal factor of establishing the prosperity of the town, on account of its possibilities of power, and he strongly advised his hearers to support the proposal.
Mr Gibb in seconding the resolution said he had gone very carefully into all the details of the scheme, and it was undoubtedly the best, up to that time, that had been submitted to the ratepayers.
There was no opposition to the resolution, whereupon the Rev J Whiteside rose, and after explaining the schemes in other towns, advised the ratepayers to accept the offer before them.
The speaker mentioned that Mr Chaplin, of Messrs H Chaplin and Co, London, had taken a great interest in the scheme, and it was owing to his efforts that the Council were able to offer the scheme to the Uitenhage peole in its present form.
He would like that meeting to give him authority to write to Mr Chaplin, thanking him for his services.
This was unanimously agreed to.
The resolution was then put, and carried unanimously.

Eastern Province Herald - December 5, 1908

Does anyone have a photograph of Uitenhage's first power station?

Tammany vendetta

2008-12-04T09:34:00.006+02:00

The extraordinary political feud which began on the eve of the Presidential election with the shooting of Jim Kelly, a Bowery politician, after a Tammany ball, promised to develop into an epidemic of assasinations.
Early on November 4, rival gangs came into collision in one of the most crowded streets in the slums, and the casualties included 20 men wounded and one killed.
Next day the feud was continued, Charles Harrington, a friend of Kelly, who had sworn vengeance on the "Jackson gang," being shot in the back and falling senseless in the arms of his wife.
A few moments later a man named Jacob Silver was taken to a chemist's shop with a bullet in the abdomen. Examination showed that a revolver had been pressed close to the man's clothing and fired.
The wounds of both men are mortal, but they refuse to divulge the identity of their asailants.
A police lieutenant, when asked for information of this strange feud, dryly observed, "You may expect murders in the Bowery daily until 'Humpty' Jackson is caught."

Eastern Province Herald - December 5, 1908

Sound remarkably like the movie "Gangs of New York". Great movie, worth seeing, but very violent. Great effects.

Camel's meat

2008-12-03T16:38:00.003+02:00

Official permission has made it possible to sell camel's meat in Paris.
After a camel has seen its best days in the transport business, it rounds out its busy life in a Boulevard Cafe.
The taste of camel's meat is said to be not unlike the sort of taste that would be expected by those with teeth sufficiently well rooted to rend it. Its flesh is sandy and stringy, with a slightly nomadic flavour.
When the young housewife goes to the Paris market and orders a leg of camel - "un gigot de chameau" - she will find when she gets home that her modest dining table will have to be much enlarged.
An da camel neck will come on the groaning board a good many more times than a re-appearing thanksgiving turkey.
It really doesn't seem right to chew him.

Eastern Province Herald - November 30, 1908

Maybe there's gravy in the hump!

The Canny Shepderd and his dog

2008-12-03T16:16:00.003+02:00

A northern shepherd was telling of a favourite sheep-dog that had been for years his companion on the hills.
"But the time came when age unfitted the poor animal for its work, and when the only kindness in the shepherd's eyes was to put an end to its life.
And then he described how he had tied it to an apple tree and got his gun to shoot it.
"An' I could scarce look at the beast," he said, "as I fired, for I loved himell, and he had been sae wise."
The tears rolled down his cheeks as he told the story, and we paused in our talk as we trudged along the sun-lit road.
Then out of the silence came this further utterance: "I buried him," he faltered, "at the foot of the apple tree," and then another pause, and then the final words, "an' there would be a rare crop of apples on the tree the year, for there's naething for an apple tree like a dead dog." - From "Some Eminent Victorians," by Mr J Comyns Carr.

Eastern Province Herald - December 1, 1908

So much for his love of the dog. Perhaps he loved apples more!

Mabel's proposal

2008-12-02T17:39:00.004+02:00

"Mabel, will you marry me when I get over my trouble?" was the question asked by Charles Frederick Russell, alias Hargreaves, from the dock at the Westminster Police Court, London.
"Certainly, I am quite willing to do that," was the prompt reply.
Prisoner was charged with perjury, he having sworn that Mabel Hargreaves, a well-dressed woman recently convicted of street begging, was his wife.

Eastern Province Herald - December 2, 1908

Oops, that proposal just prolonged his troubles. What a dumb thing to do - in a court of all places. Do you think he was perhaps romantically minded? Most likely just simple-minded.

Origins of ox-tail soup

2008-12-02T17:05:00.003+02:00

It may not be generally known that the familiar ox-tail soup had its origin during the Reign of Terror in Paris in 1793, when many of the nobility were reduced to starvation and absolute beggary.
The abatoirs sent their hides fresh to the tanners without removing the tails, and in cleaning them the tails were thrown away.
One day one of the noble beggars, while happening to pass a tannery, noticed a pile of discarded tails, and asking for one it was willingly given to him. He took it to his lodging and made what is now famous - the first dish of ox-tail soup. He immediately told his friends of the good luck he had had, with the natural result that the tanners were soon annoyed to such an extent by the demand for ox-tails that a price was put on them.

Eastern Province Herald - November 30, 1908

What a tale about the spirit of enterprise. Ha ha, pun intended.

Fight for life at sea

2008-11-27T11:45:00.006+02:00

Frederick Towner, the 18 year old apprentice who was the only survivor of the crew of the British sailing vessel Enterprise, which was lost in a collision with the steamship Derwent during mail week, has written the following account of the disaster to his mother, who lives at Leicester.
"Dear Old Mother, - We were run down by the steamship Derwent on Tuesday night, south of Harborough, about 6.30. It crashed through our port quarter, and before we could get the boat over, the Enterprise went down with all hands.
"It was awful, I can tell you. I could feel one of the stays take me down, so I pulled myself clear, and about half an hour after - well, that's how long it seemed to me - I came to the top of the water.
"I got a gallon of salt water in me, so I could not get my breath. I started to swim about when I caught hold of the boat's chock. I was in oilskins and sea boats (boots?).
"I could see the steamboat, so I shouted with all my might and swam towards it. They saw me in the water and they threw a couple of lifebelts to me, so I let go the chock and got hold of the lifebelts.
"I was then washed round the bows of the steamboat, and the first mate and a Greek got into the jolly-boat, and after continual shouting they found me and picked me up."

Eastern Province Herald - November 28, 1908

Surprise! A jolly-boat is not a boatfull of inebriated sailors. It's a four or six oar boat carried on board a ship.

The old-fashioned English plum pudding

2008-11-27T11:26:00.003+02:00

Humour is a great factor in life in the Territories (says the "News").
The other day a very diminutive commercial traveller - no names, no pack drill - arrived at a wayside inn and made rather a late lunch.
On the table there was one of those huge old-fashioned English plum puddings, and, after helping himself to a slice of it, an inspiration seized him.
He placed the pudding under the table, shoved a cushion into his waistcoat pocket, rang the bell and peremptorily ordered the maid to bring him another pudding.
"Quok!" she exclaimed, and with her hands pointing heavenwards, she rushed out to call her master to come and see the plum pudding marvel.

Eastern Province Herald - November 27, 1908

Pity the report doesn't tell us what happened thereafter. Did the commercial traveller get away with the pudding and the cushion or did they find the plum pudding under the table? And what on earth does "Quok" mean? Your comments, please.

"Get out of my sight!"

2008-11-27T11:21:00.002+02:00

A young recruit, stationed at Felines France, went to his commanding officer with a request for leave and received a brusque reply "Get out of my sight." He took the word literally, and travelled home by the next train, but to his great surprise he was arrested at his farm on the following day and convicted of desertion.

Eastern Province Herald - November 28, 1908

Reminds me of the time while I was doing my compulsory military service when the commandant called all the recruits into the regimental hall.
During his address he tried to find out how many people were aware of their surroundings.
He called out questions to which the recruits answered with what they thought were the correct answers.
"What is the name of the street that runs past the camp?" he called out.
With that, one of the recruits jumped up and said "Civvy Street!"
Everyone burst out laughing.
It was the only time I ever saw the commandant smile.

New suffrage member

2008-11-26T11:23:00.003+02:00

The women's suffrage movement has gained a new and notable adherent in Mme. Melba, the famous singer. Asked what had influenced her to take this step, Mme Melba said:
"It is a question of humanity. On my present tour I have visited Liverpool, Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle, Bolton, Belfast, and other great industrial centres, where the extreme poverty of the women workers has touched me to the heart. I am forced to believe that their condition would be bettered if the influence of women could be used in the selection of our Parliamentary representatives."

Eastern Province Herald - November 28, 1908

Hard to believe that 100 years ago women were not allowed to vote.

"Drunk" Archbishop

2008-11-26T11:10:00.003+02:00

The Archbishop of York, who has recently resigned, one day found himself in a railway carriage with two drunken men, one of whom complained that he had been robbed of a five pound note, and was determined to search the pockets of his fellow passengers.
"I began to feel very uncomfortable," said Dr Maclagan, "as I happened to have a five pound note in my pocket. However, I determined to sit quietly, and feign sleep. Presently came the challenge: 'I say neighbour,' but I made no answer.
Then the man grabbed me by the arm and shook me violently, but I did not wake up. He kept on shaking, but still I remained impassive. Then his friend interposed with 'I say, Bill, leave him alone, can't you? He's drunker than you are,'"

Eastern Province Herald - November 28, 1908

Useful tip this, don't you agree?

Flour faces

2008-11-26T10:59:00.004+02:00

An Orange River Colony correspondent, writing under the name of "Boer," states that he recently attended a wedding party, at which he noticed many young ladies who were very pale. At first he could not conceive the cause of this, but later he discovered that they had powdered their faces with flour. He thinks that this is a sad symptom, and that the reason why the country is being punished so severely is that the flour is being wasted in this way.
"It is, moreover, not necessary for purposes of adorning; the daughters of our land are at the prettiest in their natural colour, without the powder."

Eastern Province Herald - November 23, 1908

Ag shame, so the country was being punished because of the young women's vanity? What do you think?

Don't finch at this pie

2008-11-25T12:32:00.004+02:00

A hotelkeeper not many miles from Umtata found time hanging on his hands rather heavily the other day, so he went out to his forage lands in search of quail. He found none, but finches were numerous and he bagged quite a number of them.
Returning home he threw them into the kitchen and told the cook he would have pigeon pie for lunch, never for a moment thinking the woman would take him at his word.
At the mid-day meal, however, the pigeon pie was the feature of the menu, and several guests who had rolled up all partook of the pie. There was a little comment (says the local "News") about the scragginess of the birds, but that was nothing to what was said after lunch when the real contents of the pie were revealed.

Eastern Province Herald - November 23, 1908

Can you imagine trying to clean enough finches for a pie? Less than a mouthful per bird, I'd imagine. He must have really shot a whole lot to make enough pie for a hotel. Have you ever eaten finch pie?

Train attacked

2008-11-25T12:04:00.003+02:00

Gangs of unruly natives again gave trouble yesterday (in Johannesburg).
They attacked a train on the West Rand at 8pm with a shower of stones. One piece of rock hurtled through a window, grazed a passenger's head, bounced off the cushion, and hit a gentleman on the opposite side in the mouth.
In the southern suburbs of Johannesburg they became agressive in the evening, and the few policemen stationed there made an onslaught on them.
The natives wore the colours of the Amalaita gang, and the vigorous pursuit which was continued till midnight resulted in the police arresting half a dozen, including an individual who was styled "sergeant-major."
The natives had as the rallying shout "Wohle Makhoa" (down with the whites).

Eastern Province Herald - November 24, 1908

So, stoning is nothing new. But there again, it's mentioned in the Old Testament. What do you think?

Grey Institute Jubilee

2008-11-25T11:15:00.005+02:00

Sunday, the 4th April, 1909, wil mark the jubilee of the opening day of the public schools under the Grey Foundation, and "Old Greys" desiring to commemorate so memorable an occasion, have taken time by the forelock and met together on Monday evening last to discuss the best method of celebrating the event.
It was an enthusiastic gathering, and after an animated discussion under the chairmanship of Mr C F Kayser, it was decided that, in view of the intention of building a new Grey Institute off the Cape Road, the "Old Greys" must endeavour to set apart some portion of the new building as their very own contribution. To that end, a strong committee has been formed, who will make it their business to approach "Old Greys" scattered north, east and west to see that their contribution will be one worthy of the school and of the occasion and of the donors themselves.
For the day itself, it is intended at present to hold a great sports meeting on Saturday, 3rd April, when old and young Greys can foregather and sport the school colours and the old motto "Tria juncta in uno."
The Committee formed is as follows: C F Kayser, Chairman; W Armstrong, vice-Chairman; E J Geard, Hon Treasurer; C G H Skead, Hon Secretary; Committee: F E Geoghegan, C H Mackay, T J Simpson, J C Kemsley, M Gumpert, W Macintosh, J Hay, J Scrimgeour, V Spindler, and W Chubb-Meredith.

Eastern Province Herald - November 26, 1908.

I wonder if the Old Greys will celebrate the 150th anniversary of actual teaching next year? See how many of the names are still at Grey. What do you think?

The Kruger telegram

2008-11-21T13:14:00.003+02:00

The latest contribution to the Kaiser controversy comes from Texas, where General Ben Viljoen is farming.
According to the "New York Herald" Viljoen declares that the Kaiser assured Mr Kruger he would not permit the annexation of the Boer Republics.
His Majesty added that he would intervene in the struggle after the Boers had gained a few victories.

Eastern Province Herald - November 17, 1908

So did the Kaiser speak with forked tongue?

Carnegie Hero

2008-11-21T11:26:00.003+02:00

The name of Mr P Manley, first officer of the Cunard liner Campania, is to be sent to the Carnegie Hero trustees for recognition of a gallant life-saving deed. When the Campania was lying opposite the landing stage one of her men-at-arms fell overboard.
A line was thrown to him, but he missed it, and he was being carried away by the ebb tide when Mr Manley dived from the top deck of the liner and kept the man afloat until tghe two were picked up by a boat from the ferry steamer Iris.
When Mr Manley was hauled ashore at the Seacombe landing-stage his only request was that a semaphore message should be sent to the commander of the Campania: "I am returning aboard at once with man-at-arms."

Eastern Province Herald - November 17, 1908

Manley must have hit the water with quite a bit of force. To view a photo of the Campania go to: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:RMS_Campania.jpg

Lucky nasty accident

2008-11-20T16:56:00.003+02:00

A nasty accident happened on Saturday to a little lad of five summers, the eldest son of Mr and Mrs Biggs, of Glen Elg, Steynsburg.
The family was driving to a neighbouring farm, when, going down a bad, rutty, bit of road, the child fell out of the cart, the wheel passing over his head.
He was not killed, but it was a most wonderful escape.
We can but suppose that his head got into a hollow or against a stone.
His parents brought him into Dr Munro at once, and he is at the Hotel Cornwall, making a favourable recovery.
His face was much bruised and scratched and the base of his skull slightly fractured.

Eastern Province Herald - November 17, 1908

Talk about luck. I reckon it just wasn't his time to go.

Volksrust Railway fatality

2008-11-20T16:45:00.003+02:00

A shocking accident occurred at the Volksrust station on Saturday about 12 o'clock.
A man named Albertus Stoop, aged 37 years, came from Ermelo on a visit to his mother's father. He was endeavouring to cross the line, in spite of the warning that no one must go over the line except by the bridge.
The engine at the time was shunting. It caught him by the shoulder, and he was thrown under the engine, which passed over both his legs below the knee.
Drs Hicks and Watt were promptly on the scene, and decided that amputation would be futile. The unfortunate sufferer lingered until 3 o'clock, when he expired.
He leaves a wife, three sons, and one daughter to mourn his loss.
Porter Higgins was very assiduous in his attentions to the deceased, and was with him to the last.

Eastern Province Herald - November 18, 1908

Just go to show, signs are there for your protection. Poor guy.

The Kruger telegram

2008-11-19T13:26:00.004+02:00

Allgemeine Zeitung (Munich) contains an article by a diplomatist who declares that the Kaiser's celebrated telegram to Kruger was despatched after consultation with the Imperial Chancellor and German Ministers, and was designed as a test of the attitude of the Powers in the event of a collision between Great Britain and Germany.
The official Berlin newspaper "Norddeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung," in the course of a leader says: "A shadow lies between the Emperor and the nation. The language used in the recent debate in the Reichstag and in the press ignores His Majesty's great service to the Empire."
The newspaper denies the statement that Prince von Buelow did not inform the Kaiser of the feelings of the nation, and hopes the interview between the Kaiser and Chancellor on Monday will restore confidence.

Eastern Province Herald - November 16, 1908

Considering the original telegram was sent 12 years earlier, in January, 1896, after the Jameson Raid into the old Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek, it seems remarkable that they were still talking about it. The original telegram is reproduced below:

"I express my sincere congratulations that, supported by your people and without appealing for help to friendly powers, you have succeeded by your own energetic action against the armed bands which invaded your country as disturbers of the peace, and have thus been enabled to restore peace and safeguard the independence of your country against attacks from without."

The British were extremely upset about it, and six years later, the First World War broke out. Although the telegram was not responsible for the outbreak, it certainly showed the hostility besides the Germans and the British. What do you think?

Bedford Public School

2008-11-19T13:22:00.003+02:00

The number of pupils at present on the roll of the Bedford Public School is 121, as compared with 105 in the corresponding quarter of 1906 and 1907.
On looking over the records of the school the number on the roll has on two occasions exceeded the number mentioned above.
In March, 1903 the roll stood at 136, and in September, 1904, at 130.
It is worth remarking also that there are no less than 62 pupils in the four highest classes.
This means, remarks the local paper, that the income of the Public School will be greater than on any previous occasion.

Eastern Province Herald - November 16, 1908

Photographer's bicycle accident

2008-11-19T09:35:00.003+02:00

A travelling photographer named Joe Naude, residing in Somerset Street, Graaff-Reinet, had a marvellous escape on Thursday morning. He was returning from a business visit to Murraysburg, and having no brakes on his machine, naturally rode with caution.
When he was descending Zuurport hill (says the local "Advertiser") a gale blew from behind and carried the machine and its rider down the steep decline at lightning speed.
Naude had sufficient presence of mind to try to use his foot as a break, but so much force was necessary that the tyre burst, and the machine, jumping like a bronco, threw him into the air.
Naude remembers nothing more until he found himself on a bed in the house of one Mrs Welman, who resides on Mr Archie Luckhoff's farm, Zuurplaats.
From Mr Welman and Private Wesselman, of the DMP (who had been, fortunately, near at hand), the cyclist found that he had been pitched high in the air and had landed with a thud on his head, being unconscious for over an hour.
Mr Archie Luckhoff, good Samaritan that he is, promptly brought the cyclist into town. Medical examination revealed the fact that the injuries received were in no way serious.
Both wrists are sprained, however, the chin has a nasty cut, the upper lip is perforated, and the nose is not improved.
That concussion of the brain did not ensue is indeed marvellous.
The wounded wheelman expresses deep gratitude not only to the young Laird of Zuurplaats, but also to the kind-hearted couple who picked him up and cared for him.

Eastern Province Herald - November 17, 1908

Wow, talk of luck, but what kind of an idiot was he for not having brakes on his bike? How on earth can you "ride with caution" if you don't have brakes? If you ask me, being so stupid to freewheel down a steep decline, the wind will not make much of a difference. Seems to me the newspaper reporter went out of his way to make out that the "wheelman" was not to blame for what had to be sheer stupidity. Actually, by referring to him as a "wheelman" he sort of implies that he was simply attached to some wheels while going at breakneck speed down the decline. I find it incredibly funny the way he writes "the nose is not improved". So did he break it or did he scratch it? "Landed with a thud on his head" sounds like a "thud" was sitting on his head when he landed. What do you think?

Cause of the damage

2008-11-18T16:49:00.003+02:00

The cause of the great and sudden rise in the river seems to have been caused by the damming up of the river. Debris was floating down the stream and gradually accumulated.
Then came an iron roof of a shanty, which smashed against the piles and passed through, followed by the Model Dairy building, which loged against the bridge and held fast.
The other floating debris blocked up what open spaces still remained, until a solid dam was formed, and the water rose six additional feet in as many minutes, and poured into the adjacent streets in one solid wall.

Eastern Province Herald - November 17, 1908

There must have been a terrific force to wash an entire building down the river. Now they want to spent millions of rands fixing up the Tramways building which was so badly damaged during the 1908 flood.

Harbour Board plans saved

2008-11-18T16:15:00.004+02:00

During the flood (of the Baakens River) the office of Mr Reeves, the Harbour Board Engineer, was washed away. Fortunately, however, before the water rose to any extent all the plans were removed, otherwise they they would have been destroyed which would have meant a serious and almost irreparable loss to the Harbour Board.

Eastern Province Herald - November 17, 1908

The Harbour Board building was about 250 yards from the banks of the river, but because the river was blocke with the debris from the remains of the Model Dairy, the river burst it's banks and flooded through the town.

Broaching the spoils

2008-11-18T15:58:00.002+02:00

Last evening the police were kept hard at work arresting and locking up intoxicated natives. These enterprising freebooters were either caught in the act of broaching the cases and barrels of liquor washed up on the North End Beach, or were found in the possession of bottle of whisky and in more or less fuddled demeanour. Upwards of a score were thus accounted for, and will be brought up before the Magistrate this morning.
It is said that a number of these people, being scared away from the flotsam and jetsam on the beach, which they regarded as their natural prey, by a strong patrol of police, embarked in boats and started salvage operations on their own account in the open bay.

Eastern Province Herald - November 17, 1908

Port Elizabeth suffered two really huge floods. The one was in 1908 and the other was in 1968, both caused by huge unexpected cloudbursts. In both case the Baakens River came down in flood, causing terrible damage. For more about the 1908 flood read my weekly 100 Years Ago column at The Herald website.

Martial Law proclaimed in Persia

2008-11-17T17:23:00.004+02:00

Martial Law has been proclaimed in Teheran, the Persian capital, where crowds assembled in the streets demanding the Shah to fulfil his promises to grant a Constitution.
The Shah's rescript providing the convocation of the new Parliament submitted at the opening of the Legislature yesterday, stated that the assembly was to be composed of "upright pious men of the country" and their duties were to remove all vestiges of disorder by political societies and do what was needed for the administration and economic progress of the country.
Tabris, however, is excluded from the advantages of the Shah's action until order is restored there.

Eastern Province Herald - November 16, 1908

So, they were already starting to push the Shah's hand. Start of his downhill journey. Took a few years though before they finally able to get rid of him.

Adam Kok

2008-11-14T14:06:00.004+02:00

The well-known monument to the late Griqua chief, Adam Kok, is now undergoing renovation, and (says the "Kokstad Advertiser") the appearance of the structure is being so considerably improved that it is now worthy of the purpose it serves and of the fine position it occupies.
The memorial is erected over Kaptyn Kok's grave, and on Wednesday morning, a large number of Griqua's assembled at the spot to see the sepulchre opened before it is permanently sealed.

Eastern Province Herald - November 11, 1908

Trooping the Colour

2008-11-14T12:21:00.006+02:00

Pretoria, Monday.
The chief attraction today was the trooping of the Colours by the South Stafford Regiment on Church Square, the ceremony being attended by the other troops in garrison and a thousand Volunteers and Cadets from the Rand and Pretoria.
Lord Selborne, after witnessing the Colour trooping, held a Levee, which was attended by all the leading official, military, and civil people.
Other events included a water carnival and open-air concerts.

Eastern Province Herald - November 10, 1908

So, it appears as though the "Trooping" was a popular parade at one stage. I wonder how many regiments or cadet corps in South Africa still hold it, apart from Port Elizabeth's Grey High School Cadet Corps?

Check out Wikipedia for Levee.

US Presidential elections

2008-11-13T09:15:00.005+02:00

In connection with the USA Presidential election it may be recalled that since the death of ex-President Grover Cleveland there has been no living ex-President of the United States. Twice only since the establishment of the Republic has the United States been previously without a living ex-President. George Washington died in 1799, when John Adams, the second President, was in office. Andrew Johnson, at the time the only surviving ex-President, died in 1875, two years before General Grant retired into private life.

Eastern Province Herald - November 10, 1908

Right now we have Bill Clinton and George Bush.

sam said...
and Jimmy Carter, I think.

markyi said...
Yes, Jimmy Cater and George Bush snr are both stil around.

17th century flight

2008-11-13T08:52:00.003+02:00

A curious passage occurs in a Turkish manuscript, dated from the latter half of the 17th century.
It is a description of a flight executed in the presence of the Sultan Murad IV.
Ahmed Chelebi flew on wings constructed of eagle feathers from the Okmaydan in Constantinople, across the Bosphorus, as far as Scubari, covering some five miles. His flight was aided by the Lodos wind. This episode, mentioned in the "Travels of Evliya Chelebi," was not quite exempt from humourous consequences.
The Sultan praised the inventor for his courage, but considering that "the presence of such foolhardy spirits might become dangerous to his empire, saw it prudent to send him into exile to Africa."

Eastern Province Herald - November 10, 1908

And if you believe he flew with the aid of eagle feathers, then I suppose you believe there are pigs with wings who can fly.

Motor-Omnibus in war

2008-11-12T17:32:00.002+02:00

The much-abused motor-omnibus has been recently the subject of experiments by the German military authorities. Until this year German soldiers returning from manoeuvres to their regular quarters have made the journey by train, but last week, for the first time, the military authorities decided to bring the them home by motor-omnibus.
This, according to a writer in "Motor Traction," was in the form of an experiment to prove the possibilities of employing motor-omnibuses in time of war. The motor-omnibus, heavily protected and armed with quick firing guns, is one of the possibilities of the future.

Eastern Province Herald - November 12, 1908

So man's race to find more efficient ways of killing hots up. This later developed into armoured cars and tanks. Pity they never realised the more troops in a fight, the higher the death toll. Or else they didn't care.

Knapsack searchlight

2008-11-12T17:21:00.003+02:00

A searchlight which can be carried in a soldier's knapsack has been invented and has already been adopted by at least two Governments, says the "Observer."
The contrivance consistes of a portable searchlight apparatus of such power and lightness that a beam of 600,000 candle-power can be developed with an outfit weighing no more than 35lbs.
The principle is one of a combination of two gases, which, acting on a new metallic pencil, produce by combustion a light of extreme brilliance.
It is claimed that the light developed is so powerful that it can be used for heliographing over long distances by daylight when there is no sun. By night it is said to have an effective range of more than 30 miles.
The German and Greek Governments have already ordered a large number of outfits; the British authorities are carrying out experiments with the appliance, and the United States Government has also taken it up.

Eastern Province Herald - November 12, 1908

I wonder what the "pencil" consisted of. Possibly this is the invention of the arc light.