It’s again time to journey back to north Baldwin County’s Victorian era and revisit news from The Baldwin Times of yesteryear.

The news landscape was pretty low key this week in 1896, with politics remaining at the forefront. An example is the report of a less than successful attempt to override the Democratic Party of the day. According to the report, a mass meeting of the Independent Party at the courthouse the previous Saturday to nominate a full ticket for county officers garnered a paltry gathering.

“There were only about 25 present,” the article stated.

The courthouse did, however, have a better turn-out for a gathering on the previous evening. This is evidenced by an article touting the success of the May Ball given by the O.O.V.’s or combination of police, fire and rescue services, which reported a crowd at the formal event.

“Gass’ orchestra dispensed music for the occasion, and dancing was kept up until a late hour,” the article stated.

Such a fundraiser harkens back to a bygone era. As does a correspondent column that provides a glimpse into the difference between late 19th century and today.

“Mr. Z.M. Bush is engaged in packing wool for Mr. J.C. Stapleton,” the column states, “and incidentally preparing another spring poem.”

In news outside of the state, an article in the weathered publication reported that a bridge made of pink marble was planned to be constructed over the Tennessee River in Knoxville, Tenn.

In international news, a report reveals that collecting exotic pets is nothing news as an article claimed that East Indian snakes were in high demand for European collectors.

“Every German steamer that leaves Calcutta takes hundreds (of the snakes) to Hamburg for distribution over the continent,” the report stated.

A different article set in Germany provides a glimpse into the social programs of late 19th century Germany. The article reported that in Munich, destitute children found begging were arrested and taken to a charitable institution, where they were photographed in their dirt and rags.

“After being maintained and educated when he leaves the institution to begin life, the … photograph is given to him,” the article stated, “and he is required to make a solemn declaration that he will keep it as a reminder of the wretched state from which he was saved and of the kindness shown.”

That’s it for this edition. Check back next week for more news from The Baldwin Times of yesteryear.