It’s once again time to journey back to the days of old and peruse the news from The Baldwin Times of yesteryear.

Pending elections of the day regained headlines this week in 1896. One being watched closely was the state’s gubernatorial election, which would see popular Democratic candidate Joseph F. Johnston become the victor.

It appears that popularity became so great, that rumors began to swirl about the future governor’s consideration as a vice presidential candidate.

“It is claimed he is the most available and suitable Southern man for the place,” then Times Editor Abner J. Smith wrote.

The editor also published a campaign speech from Johnston, in which the candidate asked for statewide unity.

“If we are to yield to passion and listen to discord, if we are to live on the resentments that have been aroused and turn a deaf ear to that higher teaching that bids brethren of one mind,” Johnston said in the speech, “ then shall we hereafter have occasion to remember that to divide and conquer has been the motto of every enemy.”

As for Baldwin County, The Times published a report announcing that this week in 1896, 1,725 residents were registered to vote, “an increase of 235 over the registration of two years ago,” the article stated.

It seems the political rhetoric geared up, as well. This is evidenced by a commentary by Smith that read, “Politics in Baldwin seem to be at a low ebb. All parties apparently are resting on their oars, waiting to see hat move the other fellows will make on the political chess board.”

The political scene wasn’t the only topic making headlines in the Victorian publication. Criminals appeared to be making their mark, as well. For example, an article reported that Mrs. S.E. Brooks of Montgomery Hill had been arrested on larceny.

“She was considered dangerous and threatened to get even with Sheriff Slaughter for having her taken up,” the article stated. “She will be sent to the asylum.”

It seems that not too soon, a related article reported that the Baldwin County Commission approved construction of a new jail for $5,825.

Yet another report indicates that crime wasn’t the only danger 19th century Baldwin County residents needed to beware of. Spring thunderstorms did their share of damage, too.

“During the severe electrical storm of Tuesday night, Capt. Dan Williams’ bath house was struck, doing considerable damage,” the article stated.

On a more positive note, it seems that fine cuisine was a familiar staple in the area, as evidenced by an advertisement by R.O. Harris of Mobile, who called himself a “dealer in fine groceries.”

“The largest and best assorted stocks of canned vegetables and fruits, in sorted olives, olive oil and canned fish,” the advertisement boasted. “All kinds of imported and domestic cheese.”

Once again, it appears that the more things change, the more they remain the same. That’s it for this edition. Check back next week for more news from The Baldwin Times of yesteryear.