Semi-Annual Feast

ALLEN, BROMLEY

Posted By: Judy Kelley, volunteer (email)
Date: 10/10/2010 at 18:01:44

One of the most brilliant social events of the season was the Semi-Annual Feast of the Home Benefit Society of the Westlake neighborhood, held on the grounds of the Westlake school house, Thursday evening, Aug. 17. The affair was given for the entertainment of the husbands and families of the members of the society.

By order of the school director, the ground was cleared to a nicety, most substantial tables were built, comfortable seats were furnished for the large crowd present, and a picnic supper was planned for early in the evening, which was enjoyed by a few. But later, buggies and automobiles came from all directions, some coming from a distance. Lanterns were hung in the beautiful trees and "bright the light shone over fair women and brave men." The whitest of table linen was spread upon the tables, set with ice cream and an abundance of the delicious cakes for which the Society is noted.

After partaking of the feast the young folks played games and the children enjoyed themselves as only children can. The men talked of the prosperity of the country, the abundance of the crops and perhaps of the weather, and also the excellence of their wives good cooking, while the women gathered around in groups and talked of the things most interesting to themselves.

While it was to be regretted that Mr. and Mr. Allen and Mr. and Mrs. Bromley were unable to be present, others came valiantly to the rescue, knowing full well they were laending a hand to a worthy cause. Everything passed off pleasantly. About nine o'clock the moon came out in all its brilliancy and the night was ideal for the occasion. Owing to the large crowd present, it is thought that the proceeds would amount up to the expectations of the most sanquine.

One of the pleasant features was the splendid pipe well in front of one of the most up-to-date school houses in Port Louisa township, which furnishes water that adds so much to the pleasure, convenience and necessity for occasions like this, as well as for the comfort and health for the scholars and teachers during the school sessions.

Source: LCHS scrapbook; newspaper clipping with hand-written date of Aug 17, 1916