‘And joy was unconfined ‘- New Year’s 1915

With 2015 rapidly approaching, I dug into the archives to see how Cedar Rapids welcomed 1915 a century ago. Turns out the New Year made the front page of the Evening Gazette, along with President Wilson kicking off the Panama-California Exposition and the sinking of the British battleship Formidable.

The Evening Gazette's brief-but-cheeky New Year's account is below. I enjoyed the oh-so-sly joke about ice water being the most popular drink in town after a night of 'parties.” It reminded me of my mom joking about a neighbor woman back on the farm who swore her boys couldn't have been drinking on Saturday night because they were so darn thirsty on Sunday.

But, hey, you had to be sly in 1915 writing for 'A Newspaper for the Family.”

From the Friday, Jan. 1, 1915 Evening Gazette:

OFF WITH THE OLD; ON WITH THE NEW

WELCOME TO 1915

Youngster Gets Various Joyous Greetings from Cedar Rapids Folk

It got here.

It got here on time. At minutes past clock this morning it arrived and it is here to stay just exactly 31,630,000 seconds and no longer.

When it goes probably the same old crowd will be around to bid It goodbye and welcome the arrival of its successor.

In the opinion of the present writer old 1914 was not treated just right. He was accused of many things of which he was not guilty, but even If he were, what's the use of kicking a guy just because he's down? This is supposed to be a charitable old world, and It is believed to at least be fashionable to give a fellow another chance, but 1914 will not get it because he's gone to stay.

Ice Water Fad Today

1915 was welcomed in various ways in Cedar Rapids. In some places there were 'parties” and at these 'parties” a 'pleasant time was had by all,” which was followed by the usual rush to climb on that overloaded vehicle known to fame as the water wagon. In some parts of the city, according to rumor, ice water was the most popular drink there was today.

There was the usual noise last midnight. Those who had the courage to retire at a seasonable hour were awakened on the stroke of twelve by the screams of the steam sirens of the city. Every whistle in town was brought into use and for a period of five minutes the din was terrific.

The cafes which observed the end of the holiday season, were crowded with revelers and joy was unconfined. Lights were turned out at midnight and at several places the merry makers joined in ringing a farewell to the departing friend.

Watch parties were held in many homes where the lights were as bright at midnight as they were at 7 o'clock.

Practically no business was transacted in the city today. Nearly all the stores were closed and the streets had a deserted appearance during the morning hours.