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Gazette & Courier - Monday, September 6, 1875
Shawl lost
Lost between the South Deerfield railroad crossing and Greenfield depot, a Broche Shawl, with fringe all around. The finder will be rewarded by leaving it with Howe Brothers, South Deerfield, or at the Gazette & Courier office.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, August 30, 1875
The rage for short dresses
A song which Mme. La Mode is at present much engaged in singing is:
"If your foot is pretty, show it".
[OK I can’t resist sharing one verse of this wonderful 1857 ditty "sung by W.N. Smith, the great bone-player of Bailey’s Circus"
If your foot is pretty, show it,
No matter where, or when;
Let all fair maidens know it:
The foot takes all the men:
The face, so fair and lovely,
May charm the gazer’s eye,
But if the foot is homely,
He’ll quickly pass you by,
He’ll quickly,--He’ll quickly,
He’ll quickly pass you by.
See the rest of the lyrics at the Library of Congress’s American Memory site].
Dresses are growing shorter and shorter in front; to that extent it is almost as impossible not to know what sort of hose a lady wears. I cannot speak enthusiastically of this fashion. A woman’s charms are hightened [i.e. heightened] by their partial concealment, not their full exposure, and the poet who sang of a lady whose name I forget:
"Her feet beneath her petticoat
Like little mice stole in and out"
or words there or thereabouts, would perhaps have considered the lady’s feet regular full grown rats if he’d had a square look at them. [;-) ] And modesty - how about that? I remember at the time the short skirts, disclosing the very tops of boots, were worn in Paris. Eugenie, the lovely Empress, and Napoleon III went to pay a state visit to the sovereigns of Austria.
When Napoleon and Eugenie arrived at Vienna, they found Franz Joseph and the beautiful Empress Elizabeth awaiting them at the railway depot. Eugenia wore a delicious little short costume, in which she looked "ravissante", of course, but the Empress Elizabeth, unaffected by the latest French mode, wore the usual long dress of women. Eugenie sprang into the imperial carriage, making a display so lavish and beautiful of sky-hued hose of symmetrical proportions that such another would have secured an engagement to any ballet dancer on the spot, and then the lovely Elizabeth gathered up her skirts and placed her feet upon the carriage step.
Instantly Franz Joseph drew her drapery from her hand, and passing it closely about her, exclaimed "Take care, your Majesty, you might show your feet". Rather a smart speech, but I have often wondered whether such underhanded or underfooted slaps at guests were considered the correct thing in the Viennese code of gentility.
There’s no telling what Franz Joseph would say if he could see some of the women who prance up and down Long Branch piazzas. Might show their feet indeed! They do. And more. The first glance at these women with skirts so curiously short in front gives one an erroneous impression. Who says there’s danger of the American population fading out before the foreign cohorts’ prolific hosts, when __? Oh, no, quite the wrong tack - that’s the way they wear the dresses now. pardon, Madame! (Olive Logan’s Long Branch Letter).
"Well, mum, I am near-sighted, and I thought the window was open", explained an Athol gentleman who had deposited several gills of tobacco juice against the car window, to a finely dressed woman, who had received most of the liquid on her lap.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, August 23, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
Saturday night’s fire - We had a narrow escape from a serious fire Sat. night, after an immunity of over 2 years. About 11 o’clock, Charles Burnham and James Keith discovered smoke billowing from the basement of F.E. Field’s crockery store in Union Block, belonging to the estate of the late R.R. Taylor. The alarm was given at once, and the fire department were soon upon the scene. So dense, however, was the smoke in the cellar of the store that it was impossible to make an entrance, but the water was applied as well as possible through the basement window and door. It was like fighting an enemy in the dark, and ere long the fire had worked its way up the partition between Field’s store and the central stairway; and following beneath the latter, crept along the base boards and up the walls on the second floor.
Streams from two hydrants - one directed inside the crockery store, and the other in the stairway (holes being cut with an axe through the plastering) - poured in a flood of water, which deluged the block from top to bottom. But so difficult was it to reach the flames, and so thick was the smoke, that it was nearly an hour before the fire was finally subdued. soon after the first alarm, Mrs. Smith, a sister of Mrs. S.F. Warner, who occupied 4 rooms on the second floor, and who is an invalid, was taken out by Dr. Deane and others, through a passageway into the American House, the smoke preventing egress in any other direction.
The origin of the fire is not yet apparent. It caught in a pile of straw taken from crockery crates; but Mr. Field says that about 8 in the eve. he went into the cellar and everything was all right. Whether the fire was ignited by an incendiary or by spontaneous combustion is matter for speculation [I’LL say!].
The damage is of course more from the water than the fire. But few articles were taken from the stores, and everything in the main building was saturated. More or less crockery was broken, but the firemen were disposed to be as careful as the circumstances would permit. Perhaps the most serious damage is in the stove and tin shop of M. R. Pierce & Co., who occupy the other side of the block. It was completely stocked with valuable stoves and iron ware, which will be badly rusted and rendered unusable.
Their work room, fortunately, is in a one story projection in the rear, and escaped the general deluge. Mrs. Smith’s goods and furniture were thoroughly smoked and wet, and we understand that she was not insured. A gold watch, which she had left behind in her flight, was taken out by Charles Smith, when the fire was at its height, who entered a window at the risk of suffocation. There is $4000 insurance on the building, placed equally in the Dorchester and Quincy companies.
F.E. Field has policies of $3000 divided between the Hanover, N.Y. and the American, Pa., and $1000 in the builders. M.R. Pierce & Co. were insured for $3000 in the Hanover and American. The rooms over M.R. Pierce & Co’s. store had just been rented to a Miss Thayer, a dressmaker. She had her carpets put down on Sat., and the firemen took them up without serious damage. She had no other goods on the premises.
It is difficult to estimate the amount of the loss. The insurance companies will doubtless repair or settle all damages. The firemen, under Chief Engineer Lyon, did their duty well, and the Glen water proved its value. Hand engines, with such a fire, would not have been equal to the task, and there is no telling where the conflagration would have stopped.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, August 23, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
Quite a crowd of young people went out to the Lake Pleasant moonlight dance Thurs. eve. A special train was also run from Athol, and the Pavilion was packed full of dancers. 200 couples or more sweltered through the measures of the merry dance, and notwithstanding the wilting state of paper collars, laces, etc., flattered themselves that they were happy and having a "boss" time.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, July 19, 1875
Bernardston
Week before last was one of picnics, emphatically so, at Sylvan Grove in this town. On Mon. the 5th, the Hibernians from Keene N.H. celebrated the nation’s birthday by a picnic, which was numerously attended, there being several car loads of men, women and children. They brought their favorite beer in great abundance, and their own police to preserve order and guard the festivities of the occasion from all interruption that might ensue from the "working" of the beer. The police were mostly of the Yankee blood, large and powerful looking men.
They brought along with them two fine bands of music, a brass band, and a string band, to stir the soul with harmony. National pride was quite apparent on this occasion, several of the leading ones wearing the green plume and other trappings of Irish nationality. Upon one large and beautiful banner, we saw the name of Emmett, a name dear to every Irish heart, and a name worthy to be revered by every patriot. Upon the whole this picnic appeared to be a very enjoyable affair, and well enjoyed by all concerned, giving no unfavorable impressions of the Irish character.
There were some very sprightly and amusing single jig dancing, both by males and females, which was almost "super" Yankee. [?] There was only one beer fight, and this was soon checked by the long, bony arms of a Yankee policeman. One of those combatants did not belong to the party from Keene. As soon as clear from the grasp of the policeman, he made tracks as fast as his ten toes could carry him, for fear of being handcuffed and tied to a tree, a summary, but very proper and effective way of treating the license loving public when inclined to pugilistic sentiments.
At a seasonable hour the party all left for their homes in sober good nature, all feeling they had had a good time, and honored the birth of their adopted country. The next picnic in order was that of the two Baptist Societies from Springfield, called the Sunday School Picnic, and was the largest gathering of the kind held at Sylvan Grove this season, there being 9 car loads of old and young, and was evidently a gathering of [?] first social rank of the place. They also had two bands of music, a brass band and a string band, and in addition they had a choir of male singers, whose vocal powers can hardly be beat if equaled.
We cannot recall the time when we have been so highly pleased with social music. And we were not a little surprised, but very "agreeably" so, to learn that the Baptist people can "trip it on the light fantastic toe", and call the same an innocent and sinless amusement, as well as other professing Christians. Truly old prejudices are giving way and common sense is gaining ground...
Thurs. July 8, a colored picnic from Springfield occupied Sylvan Grove, numbering 201 grown up persons of both sexes, and 31 children. They called themselves the Pilgrim Baptists, and during their stay here their conduct was very exemplary and seemed perfectly consistent with the Christian name and character. Their sense of Christian propriety forbade them to indulge in dancing exercises, which seems almost an instinct of the African race, consequently they had no music but vocal, some of which was exceedingly charming to the ear. They were scrupulously neat in appearance, well dressed, though not fantastically so, which is considered by many to be an African characteristic.
They were all shades, from a jet black to a light quadroon, many of them having the straight auburn hair and the Saxon blue eye. Many of them gave evidence of a good degree of general intelligence and learning, being able to converse with ease upon various topics, especially religious topics, to which they seemed much inclined. Their demeanor, through the day, was such as to claim the respect of every one present; and we were very willing to admit that they rightfully belonged to the great Christian brotherhood of man.
Several of the first class citizens of the place showed them marks of politeness and courtesy, by carrying them about town in their carriages. "A blessing on him who cheers the downtrodden".
Fri. July 9, the Unitarian Society from Northampton held a picnic at Sylvan Grove. This party numbered 150, a number highly respectable for the Society, which we understand is quite small. It was quite evident from appearances that this party was composed of people of both sexes from the first circles of refined society in points of politeness and moral culture. They were accompanied by a band of music of 6 pieces, called the Arlan Orchestra, T.S. Billings, leader, a gentleman highly distinguished for musical talents, as also were the others of the band. The music of this band probably cannot be beat by any band in Western Massachusetts. Mr. Billings is, no doubt, an amateur of music from birth.
Of course a dance followed the sweet strains of this music; indeed, they couldn’t help it, so bewitching is the power of music over the head and heels. Among the dancers first up on this occasion we saw an old gentleman, 83 years old; and had you seen nothing of him but the nimble and elastic step of his feet, you certainly would have said those feet were not more than 20 years old; a remarkable instance of green old age. This was no less a man than David Damon, a well known citizen in the first circles of Northampton society. [See the Google book "Early Northampton", 1914],
(Pardon us for calling names). Nothing happened in word or deed to mar the enjoyment of this pleasant occasion. There was no smell of ’license" stronger than good tea and coffee, with plenty of cool lemonade. Joy and social kindness shone in every countenance, showing the unspeakable advantages of refined society. Even the gentle bearing and graceful manners of the little children lent a charm to the occasion. Such a picnic we would gladly see repeated. Scribe.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, July 19, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
Miss L.M. Ross closed her popular dress making establishment in the Pond Block last week. To show her appreciation and friendship of the young ladies who have been in her employ, she entertained them most cordially at her boarding place on Wed. eve. She had previously received a beautiful piece of silver service as a testimonial from her employees, and other friends bestowed upon her like favors.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, July 19, 1875
News of the week
In New York Mon., two well dressed men rung the bell at no. 50 West Eleventh Street and were admitted by Mrs. Matthias M. Danser, an old lady, and at the time the only occupant of the building. They represented themselves to be plumbers, and said they came to repair the water pipes. The instant the door was closed they seized the old lady, nearly 60 years of age, and gagged and handcuffed her.
They reopened the door and admitted 5 or 6 other men, who had remained within call. The burglars then proceeded to ransack the house, breaking open everything that was locked, disarranging the wardrobes, bureau drawers and leaving traces of their presence in every room and corner of the dwelling. When they had gone, Mrs. Danser went to the front door and managed, by standing behind the glazed portion and articulating with her handcuffed hands, to attract the attention of a lad, who informed the police.
Mrs. Danser sustained no injury. The handcuffs had to be filed off. About the first of May Danser was robbed of some coupons by a servant girl, and it is thought the thieves were attracted in the hopes of finding the bonds; they were not, however, in the house. Mr. Danser returned home in the eve. and missed $10,000 in Virginia State bonds, worth 37 cents on the dollar. Some $40,000 in New York central bonds were overlooked by the desperadoes.
See the story in the July 13, 1875 issue of the New York Times online. It gives other important details, such as the fact that Mr. Danser was a "professional gambler". A very interesting account of this case and what occurred next can be found in Google Books "Recollections of a New York Chief of Police" by George W. Walling, 1887].
Gazette & Courier - Monday, July 5, 1875
Montague City
The community, usually so quiet, had a genuine sensation the other day. It appears that one Partridge, who has lived in the vicinity for some time, separated from his wife a year or two since. The couple were never divorced, but the woman, not waiting for that process, remarried, and has since lived in Boston. Partridge kept possession of their child, against the mother’s will.
Two women came to Montague a few weeks since, both well dressed and city bred in appearance. From inquiries they made, it was found that they were after the child, and Partridge was put on his guard. But two weeks later he met on the road a stranger with a lady closely veiled. It occurred to him afterward that the lady was his wife, and hastening to the place where the child was living, he found that she had been forcibly taken away, the mother of the child using a pistol to frighten those who opposed her. Partridge has gone to Boston, and says that he will stay there until he recovers the child.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 21, 1875
Babies - welcome and unwelcome
The possessor of a thoroughly modern baby is to be pitied, and so is the child. We mean that unwelcome human atom which arrives in the family of the ultra fashionable lady, who believes that to be a mother at all, a woman must surely stand on the wrong side of fate. It cries, and what reason has it to do anything else? Then there is the baby of the wretched, overworked woman whose motherly instincts are strong and sweet, but whose many cares and duties are all pleading for attention at once, while the child wails for the tender touch of affectionate care, and its pathetic cry tells her that it possesses a dim, unreasoning, but still a certain conviction, that it is not wanted in the household. A dog knows when it is not invited to stay, and a baby is as conscious of a lack of cordial welcome, no matter how dearly it is beloved, after it has once been folded in its mother's arms, and its early life shows the blight...
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 21, 1875
The saddest thing in life is the spectacle afforded by a young person who has burnt all her hair off her forehead with a hot slate pencil http://www
The saddest thing in life is the spectacle afforded by a young person who has burnt all her hair off her forehead with a hot slate pencil http://www.reedfarmstead.com/html/slatepen.htm and cannot afford to buy a row of curls.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 14, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
W.A. Forbes, who thinks perhaps, some of his neighbors do not stick to the early closing arrangement, announces that hereafter his store will be kept open till 9 each eve. Mr. Forbes informs the ladies that his supply of black silks, lace shawls, light kids, etc. deserves their attention.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 14, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
It has been said that even the ingenuity of the Yankees could never find a useful purpose for old hoop skirts, but we passed a cornfield the other day, where a dozen or more of these cast off contrivances of a played out fashion were hung up for scare crows, and we dare say the troublesome birds were kept at a safe distance.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 7, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
There was a very brilliant gathering on Tues. eve. at the residence of Alonzo Parker, Esq. on Congress Street, to witness the marriage of his daughter, Miss Carrie Parker, to H.J. Davis, the well known photographer. The guests, numbering some 200, represented the best of Greenfield society, and many of the toilets of the ladies were very fine [I guess I'll never get over the use of that word in this context!]. A little before 9, the interesting ceremony was performed by Rev. F. A. Warfield, who used a brief and appropriate service.
/ The bride was beautifully attired in white, with a long court train and veil. After the twain had been made one, they led the way to the dining room, where blessing was invoked by Rev. Warfield, and the choicest cake, cream and other refreshments were served under the direction of J.J. Richardson, our popular caterer. The evening was very agreeably spent, and congratulations were showered upon the united pair in lavish profusion. The bride's presents were abundant, including articles of silver ware from her relatives and friends, pictures and the usual souvenirs of utility and adornment, a magnificent ice pitcher, salver and goblets were the united gift of some invited guests. The bride, who has for two or three years held the position of organist at the Second Congregational Church, will still continue her engagement. Mr. Davis some time ago purchased the Bailey cottage on Main Street, which has been fitted up and furnished, and the pair enter at once upon the pleasures and cares of housekeeping.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, June 7, 1875
News of the week
John L. White of Boston is under arrest for outraging the person of Emma G. Escabel, the 10 year old daughter of his washerwoman, the girl having yielded to him through the influence of a promised visit to Barnum's hippodrome and a new silk dress.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, May 24, 1875
News about home: Greenfield items
Parties wishing to engage Miss Legate for summer or fall dress making at their homes will leave orders at E.S.W. Packer's, Pleasant Street. Miss L.S. Lamphear is prepared to do sewing in families. Word left with Miss Legate will be attended to.
Gazette & Courier - Monday, May 24, 1875
Don't buy the Hip Gore Corset till you know that the price is right
Don't buy the Hip Gore Corset till you know that the price is right. 33 cents at "Mack's", all sizes, in white and drab. [See "Improvements in corsets", U.S. Patent Office, issued May 26, 1874].
Gazette & Courier - Monday, May 17, 1875
Shelburne Falls
It was an amusing sight to see three ladies dodging a blast near the steam shovel, not long since. How they did duck their heads and run! and when the frozen dirt came showering down all around them, they clasped their hands above their heads to save their new bonnets from being disfigured.
- Wed, Feb 11, 2009
