M&R railroad completed through Excel a century ago in Monroe County

B.B. Comer in 1910

Monroe County has gone through many changes in the past century and you’ll really notice the big changes if you ever look at old editions of The Monroe Journal newspaper. Earlier this week, I took advantage of the archives at the Monroe County Library in Monroeville and looked closely at the four editions of The Journal printed 100 years ago this month, way back in March 1914. Here are some of the news highlights from those papers.

MARCHC 5, 1914

“The annual federal inspection of the local military company took place at the armory on Monday evening. Adjutant General J.B. Scully and other military officers were present on the occasion. About 50 members of the company were present. Capt. McDuffie is hopeful that a favorable report will be rendered as to the efficiency of the company.”

“JEDDO: A storm of rain, sleet and snow swept over this section a few days ago. It was a beautiful sight to see the large snowflakes falling, but all soon melted away.”

“HIGH SCHOOL NOTES: Great excitement prevailed on the campus Wednesday, the 25th, on account of the snow.”

“MT. PLEASANT: I am glad to state that Mt. Pleasant school No. 3 is progressing nicely and has the best teacher in Alabama, Miss Minnie O’Connor of Mobile. All the people are delighted with her.”

“Mr. Arthur Lambert of Manistee was here (Monroeville) Thursday on business.”

MARCH 12, 1914

“Mr. J.M. Stallworth, the accommodating postmaster at Beatrice, was in the city Saturday taking the civil service examination for the retention of his job.”

“Mr. Riley Kelly of Excel was in the city the first of the week. He says his town now has railroad transportation facilities, the M&R having recently completed its line into that place. The enterprising businessmen of Excel propose to take every advantage of the improved facilities and will prove keen competitors for the trade of that prosperous section.”

“Mr. J.U. Blacksher returned Monday from Mobile where he underwent an operation.”

“There will be a preaching at Pleasant Hill church on the fifth Sunday in March, also at Grimes Schoolhouse on Saturday night before, by Rev. Theo Harris of Atmore.”

“Hon. B.B. Comer will address the voters of Monroe County in the courthouse on Mon., March 16, 1914 at 10 a.m., at Jones Mill at 3 p.m. and Repton at night, in behalf of his candidacy for governor.”

MARCH 19, 1914

“HIGH SCHOOL NOTES: The first challenge of the season has been given by the high school boys to Vredenburgh for a game of baseball Saturday if the latter is willing.”

“Capt. Andy H. Johnson and Mr. F.H. Rutherford of Franklin were among Monroeville friends the first of the week.”

“Mr. J.L. Bowden of Roy was in the city Tuesday. Mr. Bowden has decided to withdraw from the present race for sheriff, leaving the field to the remaining quartette.”

“Mr. A.D. Gillia has purchased the City Market from Mr. Hudson and will keep a constant supply of choice fresh beef, pork, sausage and dressed chickens. Phone your orders.”

“Mr. W.H. Louisell of Leakesville, Miss., for many years engaged in the saw mill business in this county, was a visitor to the city this week.”

“Pupils of the Jones Mill school will present the play ‘Between the Acts’ at the town hall at Roy on the evening of March 27 for the benefit of school improvement. Admission 35 and 25 cents.”

MARCH 26, 1914

“The Journal regrets to learn that Mr. J.W. Hybart had the misfortune to lose his dwelling and contents by fire at Bells Landing a few days ago.”

“Col. W.W. Quarles of Selma and J.M. Bonner, Esq., of Camden are among the visiting attorneys in attendance on the circuit court now in session.”

“While out hunting one afternoon last week, Dr. Dennis’ gun was accidentally discharged, a part of the load taking effect in his foot. The injury, while somewhat painful, wasn’t serious and will result probably in only a few days inconvenience.”

“The Ollie public school, Miss Ruth Simmons principal, closed Friday evening, March 20, with a very delightful entertainment.”

“On Sunday afternoon, a ‘Kodak Party’ met at the home of Mr. Marshall bent on snapping the beauties of nature adjacent to Mineola.”

Well, I guess that’s all that space will allow for today. Next month, I’ll take a look at the events of April 1914 in Monroe County. Until then, if you get the urge to research the county’s history yourself, take advantage of the Monroe County Library’s excellent selection of old newspapers on microfilm and other resources. The library’s friendly and courteous staff will be more than happy to get your started.