Article: A century ago, Elgin residents feared Halloween vandalismA century

A century ago, Elgin residents feared Halloween vandalism A century ago, householders in Elgin dreaded the approach of Halloween, and with good reason.

The damages on the night of Oct. 31, 1898, amounted to several hundred dollars, a considerable sum in that day.

And, those who received no annoyances beyond ringing door bells counted themselves lucky. Police were kept busy answering calls all over town.

Girls as well as boys were out making things lively.

Fences were torn down, plank sidewalks removed, gates hauled away, and doorsteps removed.

"For Sale" signs were tacked on houses.

Vegetables and mud were piled upon front porches and street signs exchanged or torn down.

Some wooden ...

Related newspaper, magazine, and journal articles:

 
 
Newsweek Harper's Magazine The Washington Post Chicago Tribune Crain's Chicago Business PRNewswire Pediatric News The Nation Advertising Age The Economist (US) A FREE trial gives you access to over 80 million articles! Access over 6,500 publications with a FREE trial!