The date is December 9, 1943.
The country was at war, and this was evident throughout every section of the paper. There were stories of Allied advances, German attrocities, the bravery of the British and the French citizens, and the hardships facing our soldiers. Everyone at 'home' was being asked to do their part, by conserving resources or buying War Bonds.
It was Christmas shopping season, and local merchants showcased the best and most fashionable merchandise.
There were clothing ads:
Check out these furniture ads. How many of these items have we seen in antique stores?
(I have a table almost exactly like the medium-sized one in this ad.)
The grocery ads were fascinating. Because of war-time rationing, citizens were encouraged to make creative use of available items.
Look at some of the employment ads.
All of this paper was wadded into balls before it was stuffed into the wall. To flatten it without tearing it, I wet the paper in the kitchen sink, and carefully smoothed it onto the kitchen counter.
Some of the businesses mentioned throughout the newspaper are still in existence. Others were here when we moved to Fredericksburg in the early 1980's, but are gone now. The buildings are here, though. When the weather improves enough for me to spend time walking downtown, and not freeze to death in the process, I think it would be cool to take my camera and photograph the buildings at the various addresses. Stay tuned.
(written by Hartwood Roses. Hartwood Roses blog)
