Vintage News Clippings

Spirit 10/26/1892

Punxsutawney Council, No. 395 O.U.A.M., marched up to the States school house last Friday, Columbus Day, and presented a Bible and flag with appropriate services. There was a nice crowd present, and the occasion was a pleasant one. The Lindsey brass band accompanied the Council and discoursed patriotic music. John Frampton was there with his camera and caught the gathering on the wing.

Spirit 5/31/1893

THE NATION'S DEAD

The procession formed in front of the Public Square and marched to the cemetery. The Punxsutawney martial band was at the head of the procession and immediately in the rear marched the little flower girls, each dressed in white and then came the old soldiers, the wives and daughters of veterans, Sons of Veterans, O.U.A.M and Jr. O.U.A.M., in the order mentioned. The parade was a good one, and everything moved along nicely.

Historical Note: The OUAM was founded in Philadelphia amidst the anti-alien riots of 1844-45. It originally was called the Union of Workers. It created an agenda specifically aimed at subverting immigrant prosperity in America. Members were required to undertake efforts to publicize and campaign against the hiring of cheap foreign labor. They were also to patronize only "American" businesses. It was essentially anti-immigrant and anti-Catholic.

Spirit 8/2/1893

The Hotel Whitney was formally dedicated to the gods of meat and drink last Thursday evening. A large number of people from Altoona, Tyrone, DuBois and Reynoldsville, were present, besides many from this immediate locality. Reynoldsville had perhaps the largest delegation. The Reynoldsville brass band was here also, and besides assisting the Punxsutawney band to keep up a plentiful supply of music at the Hotel Whitney, it serenaded a number of our citizens, and the opinion was unanimous that Reynoldsville's band was a dandy. Landlord Shaffer had made extensive preparations, and gave the boys an elegant set-out. It is needless to remark that everybody enjoyed themselves with uproarious and hilarious joy.

Historical Note: Serenades were an interesting activity of early bands. They would go to a person's home and give them a mini concert.

BAND REUNION AT MARCHAND

The Marchand Brass Band, which was organized in 1879 and disbanded about five years ago, had a reunion at Marchand last Thursday. All the members were there except Samuel Zener, who now resides in Pittsburgh. The members present were John, Jacob and William Zener, Ed. Peffer, Wilber C. Brown, Wm. Steffy, Frank Blose, Prof. Miles Blose, O. H. Rosborough, F.H. Moot and William Moot. The boys had their instruments with them, and from the manner in which they made the air blossom with melody, no one would suppose they had lost any of their old time skill in their manipulation. The band had more than a local reputation. It was known for miles around, and received many calls on great occasions when good music was wanted. A large number besides the band boys were present, and nice addresses were made by Hon. J. W. Morrow, Marshall Lytle and Rev. Allen. The ladies of Marchand gave the members of the band an ice cream supper, which was highly appreciated by them, after which they departed for Covode.
C.G. Matson, the whole-souled, genial proprietor of the Commercial, entertained the Reynoldsville Cornet Band Wednesday evening of last week. Ice cream, cake and other delicacies graced the board. The band discoursed music, such as only it can render, and all hands were happy. Mr. and Mrs. Matson know how to entertain and the Commercial is becoming more popular each day. Cad's friends are legion and he knows how to use them, so that they do not drift away.

Spirit 5/27/1896

Last Saturday evening the citizens of our village were serenaded by the Famous Daley Drum Corps, of Cool Spring. The band is composed of some of the finest musicians in the State, and they need not take a back seat for anyone.

Spirit 9/15/1897

The sixth annual reunion of the Mechanics of Jefferson, Clearfield, and Elk counties, held at Big Run last Wednesday, was a success in every particular. The weather was beautiful and the arrangements perfect. The town was profusely decorated with flags and bunting.

The parade which was the leading feature of the occasion moved at 2 o'clock and marched through the principal streets of the town. It was composed of Big Run Cornet Band, Punxsutawney, Mountain City, Luthersburg, Paradise and Limestone councils. Falls Creek band, DuBois, Brockwayville, Knoxdale, Ridge, Cool Spring, and Big Run councils with martial band and members of miscellaneous councils in the rear. The parade was headed by a school house on wheels, over which was a banner with the inscription, "Free schools must be maintained".

Spirit 5/4/1898

REYNOLDSVILLE NEWS

The Keystone band was out for the first time on Thursday evening last.

The Perrysville Cornet Band, consisting of eighteen pieces, accompanied the Punxsutawney and Lindsey lodges to DuBois on Tuesday of last week, and gave excellent satisfaction. The boys play remarkably well considering the time they have been organized. Dr. R.A. Miller is the leader.

Spirit 6/1/1898

The Boys' Band was out on Decoration Day and played all the patriotic airs in the books. With the assistance of Prof. Adams, Harvey Steel and Fred Warren, they made good music. The boys are learning rapidly. Most of them sleep with their horns and dream by note. If they keep up their enthusiasm for a year or two they will make fine musicians, and Punxsutawney will have a band of which to be proud.

Hose Company No. 1 and the Keystone Band held a joint meeting on Wednesday evening last and decided to celebrate the glorious Fourth in grand style.

Spirit 6/1898

The firemen and band boys will consider it a great favor, and appreciate it, if the several churches and societies will not hold any festivals or suppers on the Fourth of July. These two organizations are deserving, and should not be handicapped by any other organization on this occasion. Show the boys that you appreciate their efforts in your behalf, and give them entire control of the day's festivities.

Spirit 9/7/1898

The B.R. & P. railway employees, under the management of the DuBois car shops, will hold a picnic at Mariposa Park on Saturday, September 17. About eight hundred railroad men and their friends are expected to attend. An interesting program has been arranged for the day, and the famous Volunteer band will furnish music for the occasion. The fare from Punxsutawney to Mariposa and return will be 70 cents. Persons desiring to attend may secure invitations by applying to Mr. A.B. White, of this place.

Spirit 8/31/1898

TO BE A MODEL BAND

E.N. Werhle, Dr. J.A. Walter, Dr. G.R. Harl, trustees of Punxsutawney Band, met in Municipal building last evening and elected the following officers:

• President: E.N. Werhle
• Vice-president: D.A. Lowe
• Secretary: Dr. G.R. Bell
• Treasurer: McKean Harl
• Librarian: Dr. J.A. Walter

The intention of the above trustees is to systematize the organization and work of a band in this town. The instruments will be leased to the members of the band upon their signing the constitution and by-laws which have been adopted, and guaranteeing the safe return of the same.

No person will be admitted as a member who uses intoxicating liquors, or who does not, in every way, bear a good moral character.

Spirit 8/31/1898

The Jefferson County Medical Association met not in solemn conclave, but in joyous mood, in Frank's Park on Friday. The weather was not of the "hand me down" sort, but strictly tailor-made. The Reynoldsville Cornet Band was employed for the occasion, and when music arose with its voluptuous swell a hundred hearts beat happily. I did not hear the roll call, so am unable to state just who were present, but as the Star was represented by its able Editor, a list of the fraternity will no doubt appear in the next issue of that newsy journal. Our own, our very own, were all there, and I am authorized to state that they were not found loitering when the feast was spread.

Spirit 11/2/1898

What is the matter with the band stand? Gas lights were fixed up, a nice railing painted green, placed around it, and the band occupied it one evening - that's all.

The Republican mass meeting held here last night was one of the largest, most enthusiastic and successful ever held in this town. It was immense. The town was filled with people from the surrounding community early in the evening. The Perrysville and Punxsutawney brass bands, and a martial band furnished the music.

Spirit 6/28/1899

REYNOLDSVILLE NEWS

The Phillipsburg band was here and furnished some excellent music and conducted themselves in a gentlemanly manner, as did every person of the male persuasion.

Spirit 6/28/1899

JULY FOURTH CELEBRATION

$2000 in Prizes and Purses! $1000 for Fireworks!

At Punxsutawney on the New Fair Grounds

Admission to the Entire Performance: 25 cents

Program Schedule

• 9:00 A.M. - Prize Fantastic and Industrial Parade of the principal streets
• 10:00 A.M. - Balloon Ascension and Parachute Descent
• 10:30 A.M. - Prize Ball Game, Reynolds Nonpareils vs. Punxsutawney's Best
• 1:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. - Events including:
  • Horse Races
  • Mule Race
  • Dog Races
  • Bicycle Races
  • Foot Race
  • Greased Pig
  • Greased Pole
  • Tugs of War
  • Prize Band Contest
  • Prize Firemen's Race, DuBois vs. Punxsutawney
• 5:00 P.M. - Balloon Ascension and Parachute Descent by Prof. Fredricy

Spirit 6/28/1899

Miss Blanche Hamilton, daughter of J.J. Hamilton, of Perry township, who is attending school at Lebanon College, Mason, Ohio, is at home on a vacation, and the Perrysville Brass Band gave her the compliment of a serenade one evening last week.

Spirit 7/5/1899

REYNOLDSVILLE NEWS

The Rathmel cornet band discoursed some excellent music on our streets Monday forenoon.

The Perrysville Brass Band assisted Punxsutawney in celebrating the Fourth. The boys make a fine presentation in their uniforms and render very good music.

Spirit 7/5/1899

BROOKVILLE NEWS

The Rathmel Brass Band spent Monday evening and the Fourth in town, visiting different parts of the town and rendering some choice selections that were thoroughly appreciated by those of our citizens who, by force of circumstances, were compelled to stay at home.

The Punxsutawney band rendered good music yesterday. A number of extra players were secured for the occasion, who added very much to its efficiency.

Spirit 7/5/1899

BIG RUN CONCERT AND SOCIAL

Your correspondent attended a concert and social at the Presbyterian church at Big Run last Thursday night. It was given under the auspices of the Big Run orchestra, Hon. Henry Wilson, leader, assisted by:

• The Men's Quartet
• The Presbyterian choir
• The Ladies' Aid

Miss Amy Taylor gave three recitations, all of which were appreciated, being cultured efforts. The music throughout consisted of overtures, songs, duets, instrumental and vocal solos, all of a high order of excellence in themselves and most skillfully rendered to the great satisfaction of the appreciative audience present.

The cream and cake served after the more intellectual enjoyments were all delicious. Many a one has spent twice as much as this entire entertainment cost and not had any better program or rendition of the same.

Everything was first class except the attendance, which was of first class people but too few in numbers considering the fine program rendered. The band folk were quite dissatisfied with the patronage they failed to receive, as they had again and again given their services to any and everything else free and naturally expected, as they richly deserved, a large audience at their concert especially when the admission was so small for so excellent a program so delightfully carried out. Big Run will not likely get so much good music free after this.

Spirit 6/13/1900

Mrs. Sue L.E. Horne, Mrs. C.B. Reed and Miss Anna Wilson attended the Brass Band tournament at DuBois last Thursday.

Spirit 6/13/1900

DUBOIS BAND TOURNAMENT CONTROVERSY

The DuBois Courier mildly refrained from mentioning the fact of our band having had their music scattered to the four winds while playing the contest piece. Had this accident not happened, we might have easily "scooped" second prize, and possibly first.

The Courier is a very impartial paper as a rule, but owing to the tender feeling that it has for our town, it sometimes goes a few steps outside the beaten track to say nice things about us, such as riding to DuBois on a freight train to see the "flyer" pass through, etc. We are modest people, and do not claim rank with Philadelphia and Pittsburgh as does our neighboring town of DuBois, according to a recent statement of the Courier. We are content to fall in line and go marching along with other cities as Altoona, Wilkes-Barre, Scranton or others of this class. DuBois is out of our reach entirely, and we simply turn her over to the Quaker and the Iron City.

Spirit 6/13/1900

We were misinformed last week when we stated that the Marchand martial band helped to furnish music for Decoration Day. It was the Covode martial band, the leading musicians of which are Archie Hadden, and James and Taylor Simpson.

Spirit 6/13/1900

The Glen Campbell brass band passed through Punxsutawney last Thursday and Saturday to and from DuBois, where it went to engage in the prize contest. The band played a number of tunes in town and easily demonstrated that it was an excellent band. It is composed largely of coal miners, as is also the Reynoldsville and DuBois Bands, which argues that Punxsutawney might also have a good band if it were to select the best musicians from the material it has to draw from.

Spirit 6/13/1900

DUBOIS BAND CONTEST RESULTS

Five brass bands entered the contest at DuBois last Friday, and were awarded prizes as follows:

• McDonald
• Logan band, of Altoona
• Reynoldsville
• Osceola
• Glen Campbell

The judges were:

• Prof. W.H. Olmstead, of New York
• Prof. Frank Dean, of Wellsboro
• Hon. Henry I. Wilson of Big Run

The Volunteer band, under the rules, was not allowed to compete being the home band. It won the last contest, and is perhaps the best band in the association.

Spirit 10/17/1900

Peter Yarruty went to New York, accompanied by Professor Colonna for the purpose of purchasing musical instruments for the Big Soldier band. Twenty-five Italians are receiving instruction, and after the holidays they will make their debut.

Spirit 8/14/1901

NIRELLA'S FOURTEENTH REGIMENT BAND AT THE FAIR

Nirella's Fourteenth Regiment Band will be at the Fair the entire four days. This is the finest musical organization of this kind in the state.

Nirella's Famous Pittsburgh Fourteenth Regiment Band will be there the entire four days of the Fair. The management made a great hit when they secured this aggregation of renowned musicians. It cost a pile of money to get it. But then no music is too good for the thousands of patrons of the Great Punxsutawney Fair. It is simply the best band money could hire. Come and hear it and live on melodious strains of music for four long days.

Spirit 8/21/1901

It costs the management $600 to secure the Nirella's 14th Regiment Band for four days fair week. It is composed of 25 artists, each a specialist in his line. This feature alone is worth more than the combined attractions at the average county fair. You will miss something if you don't hear them.

The best band music ever heard in Punxsutawney will entertain the thousands of visitors who attend Punxsutawney fair next week.

Spirit 3/26/1902

The Walston Brass Band was in town Saturday afternoon discoursing music and passing the hat for the purpose of raising money to help pay for their new instruments. There are twenty-one pieces, four of which are clarinets, and the organization gives promise of becoming a famous band.

Spirit 8/27/1902

FIREMEN'S CONVENTION GREATEST EVER HELD IN DISTRICT

One Thousand Uniformed Men in Line With Five Excellent Brass Bands

The band concert was also declared off because a number of bands had to leave before it took place, Clearfield being the only band that met the prescribed conditions and appeared at the appointed place at 2 o'clock p.m. for the contest. For this reason, and for the further fact that Clearfield had an excellent band, there was a good deal of sentiment to the effect that the Fifth Regiment was entitled to the prize.

One of the best bands at the Firemen's convention was the Fifth Regiment Band of Clearfield. The boys could beat any of them making perfectly harmonious music while on the march, and are a credit not only to Clearfield, but to the Pennsylvania Militia. And they were not economical of their music, either. They marched up and down street until a late hour playing popular airs, and keeping the people in high spirits. Everybody was enthusiastic over the Fifth Regiment Band.

Spirit 6/3/1903

MEMORIAL DAY PROCESSION

Promptly at 10 o'clock the line of march was taken up at the northeast corner of the public square in the following order:

• Martial band led by Comrade Archie Hadden
• Capt. E.H. Little post No. 287, G.A.R. in command of Comrade Cyrus Wilson
• Women's Relief Corps
• Falls Creek Brass Band
• Flower Girls
• Flag Boys
• Salvation Army
• Junior Mechanics
• Knights of Pythias
• Walston Brass Band
• Punxsutawney Council O.U.A.M.

The procession marched down Mahoning Street to Gilpin Street and countermarched to Findley Street and along Findley Street to the Old Cemetery. The flower girls and flag boys were especially attractive as each bore a beautiful token to be laid on the graves of the dead. The O.U.A.M. made a splendid showing in their bright regalia, and marched like veterans.

The procession halted at the tomb of Capt. E.H. Little, and after the G.A.R. Veterans had come to rest the other organizations formed a cordon around the grave. Back of them a great crowd assembled to witness the exercises, the first number of which was a rendition of "The Dead March in Saul," by the Walston Band.

Spirit 7/1/1903

HELP THE BAND

The Punxsutawney Cornet Band, which was organized here recently, has made a selection of the instruments to be used, and the time has come when money alone talks. Out of $305 subscribed, $240 has been paid in. An effort will be made this week to increase the capital to at least $500, and should the effort prove successful the instruments will be ordered at once.

The members of the new organization have all had considerable experience, and if they receive the desired assistance so that there is no delay in getting into practice, will be in a position to furnish music for the coming fair. It should be a pleasure for every citizen in the town to assist in making possible this very much needed attraction for Punxsutawney.

Spirit 7/1/1903

GET INTO LINE: FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

The great Fourth of July parade will form around the Public Park at 10 o'clock a.m. and at 10:30 o'clock the line of march will be taken up as follows:

• Burgess, town council, city officials
• Visitors and citizens in carriages
• Fire departments of Punxsutawney and Lindsey
• Merchants and manufacturers
• Fantastic parade

Each division will be escorted by a brass band or drum corps and the prospects are that the parade will be the longest and most imposing pageant ever seen in Punxsutawney. The committees expect each citizen to be in line and help to elongate the procession. Any kind of an outfit will be acceptable. The funnier the better. Delivery wagons, dray wagons, store wagons, anything moveable from an oil stove to a go-cart will add interest to the parade.

Spirit 7/8/1903

The Punxsutawney band is now an assured institution, and the instruments have been ordered and shipped at once.

Spirit 7/15/1903

THE CITIZENS' BAND

The instruments, for what is to be known as the Citizens' Band of Punxsutawney, arrived here on Monday and were displayed in the windows of McAfee's tailor shop until last night when they were distributed to the members of the new organization. The instruments were manufactured by Henry Distin & Company, of Williamsport, and are easily the finest make ever seen in Punxsutawney.

They are made of brass, silver plated, full burnished with gold points and bell, elaborately engraved and of the very latest design. Each instrument is supplied with a double complement of fixtures and a handsome patent case made of leather, and plush lined.

Band Personnel

• Leader and E flat cornetist: George B. Miller
• B flat cornetists: Walker, Derand, Mitchell, and Henry
• Saxophone: McAfee
• Clarinetist: Devinney
• Baritone: Reilley
• Tuba: Watkins and Heckendorn
• Trombone: Donnelly, Guthrie, Stokes and Van Sickle
• Solo alto: Miller
• Altophone: Houghton, Smith
• Bass drum: Conway
• Snare drum: Meyers

The instruments are the property of the citizens and will be controlled by a board of trustees. Before taking possession of them each player will be required to sign strict by-laws and make oath, in substance, as follows: "In case I fail to return the instrument within five days from the time I cease to be a member of the Citizens' band, I agree that a criminal proceeding may be instituted against me for larceny."

Spirit 7/29/1903

Funeral Service in Honor of Pope Leo

On the return march the column was headed by Rev. Father Weinker, and other church officials, who occupied a carriage. Next came 12 little girls bearing a large frame which held a picture of the late head of the Catholic Church on either side. Then came the Walston brass band followed by the members of the Garibaldi Society.

Spirit 8/5/1903

The Citizens' Band, of Punxsutawney, since receiving their instruments three weeks ago, has made excellent progress in playing. Two street concerts have already been given, each attracting an immense crowd which applauded their efforts liberally. The band is already a pronounced success.

Spirit 9/9/1903

The Punxsutawney band, after discoursing music all day for the U.M.W. of A. on Labor Day, serenaded a number of our business men in the evening. The band is improving right along, and is a credit to the town.

Spirit 9/23/1903

THE CITIZENS' BAND

The Citizens' Brass Band, of Punxsutawney, recently organized, has made marvellous progress, and is already a creditable music producing organization. Most of the members are old musicians, and all that is needed to make this one of the best bands in this part of the State is practice.

Spirit 3/9/1904

Special Train to Yatesboro Church Dedication

Arrangements had been made to accommodate 300 from DuBois but in this the managers of the excursion were very much disappointed. The Punxsutawney Brass Band accompanied the delegation from this place.

The church was erected by Rev. Father John DeVille of Walston and cost about $8,000, furnished. Rev. Federici, who will be the resident pastor, assisted Rev. DeVille in conducting the dedicatory ceremonies, during which a congratulatory telegram was received from the Iselins, of New York, who were liberal contributors toward the erection of the church.

Spirit 3/23/1904

High School Literary Contest

A literary contest between the senior classes of the Punxsutawney, Brookville, and Reynoldsville high schools will be held in the Punxsutawney Opera House Friday evening, March 25. The Punxsutawney band will be present and the entertainment is expected to be the event of the season in educational circles.

Spirit 3/30/1904

REYNOLDSVILLE WINS INTER-HIGH SCHOOL LITERARY CONTEST

When the Citizens' Band arrived at the opera house shortly after eight o'clock the seats had all been sold and many people were being turned away.

Spirit 3/30/1904

Roma Band Makes First Public Appearance

The Roma Band, which was organized at Crawfordstown by Prof. Antony Momnze last October, made its first appearance in public Monday evening, when Supt. A.W. Calloway and the store employees at Adrian were tendered a serenade. A large crowd collected in the front of the store to hear the first concert and it was the opinion expressed by all sides that the organization is an exceptionally good one considering the brief time it has been in existence.

On Thursday evening, April 7, Prof. Momnze will bring his band to Punxsutawney and serenade the principal business places and give a concert in front of the public park.

Spirit 5/18/1904

MEMORIAL DAY SERVICES

Programme - Parade will form at 9:30 a.m. with the right resting on East boundary of Public square, Mahoning Street; first-G.A.R. Martial Band in charge of Capt. Archie Hadden.

Spirit 5/18/1904

VISITING KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS

The brethren were met at the train by the Punxsutawney Cornet Band and escorted to the hall, after which the band gave a concert in front of the park.

Spirit 6/29/1904

ROYAL ARCANUM PICNIC

Over five hundred people came over from Indiana last Thursday on a special excursion to take part in the Royal Arcanum picnic held in Mitchell Park on that day.

The train bringing the excursionists arrived at the park about 10 o'clock and disembarked to the music of the Citizens' Band of Punxsutawney. As soon as the crowd of perhaps 700 had assembled on the grounds, the people were called to order.

From then on until noon the people were entertained by the excellent music by the band while they placed the contents of their respective baskets on the numerous tables in the grove and prepared to enjoy a sumptuous dinner.

The afternoon was devoted to dancing on the pavilion to the excellent music of the Punxsutawney Orchestra, ball playing and the numerous pleasures of genial companionship. The dancing pavilion was crowded all afternoon, and the young people who took part in that feature of the program would certainly be ready to give it their hearty endorsement.

Spirit 6/29/1904

INDIANA WILL CELEBRATE

Plans for Indiana's big Fourth of July celebration are nearly completed, and those who have the arrangements in charge are confident that Indiana visitors will be well satisfied with the program for the day. Punxsutawney will send its crack cornet band and fire companies while other visiting firemen will come from Clayville, Blairsville, and other nearby towns. Indiana brass band and the famous Green Township Sheepskin band will give concerts in the evening.

Spirit 8/3/1904

THE SPIRIT SERENADED

The Reynoldsville brass band, which was one of the half dozen excellent music producing organizations which discoursed melody for the A.O.H. reunion last Thursday, gave a concert in front of the Spirit office in the evening which was listened to by a large crowd of appreciative people and further established the claim of Reynoldsville to the possession of one of the best bands in the state. A number of high class selections were rendered in a manner that was mighty agreeable to the ear as well as creditable to the musicians.

The leader, Richard Ramey, although regularly employed as a coal miner, has found time to make himself a most proficient instructor and leader so much so that it is often said that Dick Ramsey can take any kind of material and make a good band of it. And the truth of this assertion is proven by the fact that Reynoldsville has had a first class band whenever Mr. Ramsey took a notion it should have one.

Spirit 8/10/1904

FAIR WEEK MUSIC

Punxsutawney is justly proud of her celebrated Citizens Band, which has been engaged by the management to furnish music the entire week. Concerts on the plaza evenings. Good band music is what makes a good fair, and all will agree that there is no better aggregation of musicians in all this land than our own unexcelled Citizens Band.

Spirit 8/10/1904

BAND ALMOST OUT OF DEBT

Spirit 9/7/1904

Benefit Performance: "The Young Wife"

Within the next ten days "The Young Wife" will be produced in the Mahoning Street Opera House by home talent for the benefit of the Citizens Band. As the organization is about $60 in debt yet for their uniforms and music supplies, it should be a pleasure to the citizens of Punxsutawney to turn out on this occasion and assist the band in wiping out this obligation which will soon be due.

The organization has labored faithfully to become a credit to the town and the distinct success which the band has made entitles it to the hearty patronage of the citizens of this community. The date will be announced in the next issue of the Spirit.

Spirit 9/7/1904

The Citizens Band left this morning to spend the remainder of the week at the Indiana fair.

Spirit 10/12/1904

JEFFERSON COUNTY REPUBLICANS THRONGED REYNOLDSVILLE FRIDAY NIGHT

Falls Creek had 75 men in line. The famous band of that town led the way and the organization had for its leader Captain W.J. Leahy, of the famous Bucktail Regiment. Roderick McDonald, who is 82 years of age, marched beside the captain and Gus Shell, the veteran drummer with the throng.

Spirit 10/12/1904

CORNERSTONE LAID

Last Sunday at 11 o'clock the cornerstone for the new Greek Catholic church at Lindsey was laid in the presence of about 1500 people. At about 10 o'clock the Greek societies in this community, numbering ten in all, assembled on the plaza at this place and marched about 600 strong to Clayville. The column was preceded by the Adrian band and each society bore an emblem of the organization and a bright hued American flag.

Spirit 10/12/1904

REYNOLDSVILLE VS. RIDGWAY HERE

The Ridgway boys are going to get the Punxsutawney band out and every available rooter between here and that place is expected to come and root for them; and, of course, Reynoldsville will bring their own band and come in full force. It will be a big day for Punxsy.

Spirit 5/31/1905

AN EXPLANATION

It appears that the statement in last week's Spirit in regard to the payment of the Punxsutawney band on last Memorial Day was not properly understood by all. The meaning meant to be conveyed was that no money was paid to the band on that occasion, but that the money that was paid was applied on the debt on the instruments, which the citizens had obligated themselves to pay, and was not used to pay the players.

The finance committee of the G.A.R. solicited from the people and paid to the band $50 for its services on last Decoration Day, taking its receipt therefor, but the players themselves received nothing, as the money so raised was turned into the general fund contributed by the residents of Punxsutawney to furnish an outfit for the band. Hence, so far as the musicians were concerned, they gave their services free of charge, and the manager of the organization, Dr. C.G. Hughes, says they were willing to do the same thing this year.

Spirit 6/21/1905

The Indiana fire companies and baseball team will be here with a brass band and as our neighboring town has concluded to forego a celebration this year and come to Punxsutawney, a great crowd is expected to come from that direction.

Spirit 6/21/1905

DISBANDED AND REORGANIZED

The Citizens' Band, of Punxsutawney, met last Monday night and voted to disband, after which it reorganized. George Miller was elected leader with the authority to appoint a committee of four to confer with him in choosing players and drafting a set of by-laws for the government of the organization.

It is believed that with proper by-laws, strictly enforced, the band will continue to improve and that the little differences which have divided and the petty gossip which has disturbed their equanimity, will be eliminated. The band is all right, our people are proud of it, and every encouragement should be given it to stick together and practice until it becomes one of the best bands in the State.

Spirit 6/28/1905

GRAND FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION PUNXSUTAWNEY, 1905

Spirit 7/26/1905

Keystone Band Concert Program

The following concert programme will be given by the Keystone band in Reynold's Park Pavilion on Third Street, Thursday Evening, July 27:

• March: "Chicago Tribune"
• Selection: "Maralina"
• Two-step: "Noisy Bill"
• Overture: "Evening Idylls"
• March: "18 Regiment"
• Tuba solo: "Beelzebub" by G.W. Beck
• Medley: "In the Shade of the Old Apple Tree"
• Trombone Solo: "Down on the Farm" with variations by Fred Warren

Spirit 8/9/1905

ODD FELLOWS REUNION AT MITCHELL PARK DRAWS BIG CROWD

Dancing was conducted in the pavilion all day and during the evening. Monroe's orchestra furnished excellent music for the dance, while Col. Cooper's band discoursed lively airs in the various places on the grounds.

Spirit 8/9/1905

INTERESTING ITEMS FROM THE JEFFERSON COUNTY CAPITAL

A game of ball was played Monday afternoon in the high school grounds between the married and the single men. The married men won the game by a score of 6 to 5, which gave them the series for which the single men have agreed to set up a banquet for 18. There was much excitement during the game and anxiety of the outcome of the series. A large crowd witnessed the game. The Sons of Veterans band furnished music for the occasion.

Spirit 8/9/1905

Spirit 8/16/1905

BIG CROWD AT GOODVILLE - ANNUAL REUNION OF SMICKSBURG AND MAHONING BUCKWHEAT CLUB BIG SUCCESS

The Rural Valley brass band occupied a pavilion in a conspicuous place and discoursed music throughout the day.

Spirit 8/16/1905

BROOKVILLE LETTER

After the game the volunteer band took possession of the verandah of the new Jefferson Hotel and treated our people to an evening's program of the choicest music, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the large crowd which congregated on Main Street.

Spirit 9/6/1905

LARGE CROWD WITNESSED LABOR DAY EXERCISES IN PUNX'Y

Fully 3,000 members of the various labor organizations and trades unions in Punxsutawney and vicinity participated in the various exercises which were held in this place Monday, under the auspices of the U.M.W. of A. Two parades were formed in front of the park at about 10 o'clock a.m.:

• First section, escorted by the Roma Band and the speakers, went to the fair ground
• Second section, composed of 12 foreign societies with about 500 men in line, marched to Lindsey where they took part in the dedication of the Greek Catholic Church

Spirit 9/6/1905

FAIR WEEK MUSIC

The 14th Regiment band of Pittsburgh, which was here Wednesday and Thursday, made a hit with the fair crowds and their evening concerts constituted one of the most pleasant features of the week's entertainment. The Citizens Band, of Punxsutawney, enlivened the crowds on the first and last days of the fair.

Spirit 10/18/1905

KEYSTONE BAND CONCERT IN THE PARK

The Keystone Band, of Reynoldsville, came over to Punxsutawney with the Eagles and gave a concert in the Park in the afternoon. The Keystone Band is a famous organization, and we doubt if there is a band anywhere in the country of the same size whose members are not all professional musicians that can produce better music.

Dick Ramsey is a great leader. He puts his whole soul into his work, and the result is art. Reynoldsville has had a band almost continuously for 25 years. "Jim" Towney, now the Hon. James A. Towney, Member of Congress from Minnesota, was the leader then, and some more of us tooted heroically under his guidance, but never got into the two minute class.

Spirit 10/25/1905

105TH REUNION - SURVIVORS OF FAMOUS "WILD CAT" REGIMENT MEET IN PUNXSUTAWNEY

Spirit 4/18/1906

The Citizens' Band is to be reorganized with William A. McCartney, director of the Jefferson Theater Orchestra, as leader.

Spirit 5/9/1906

JOHN JACK

From 1850 to 1890 Mr. Jack and his wife, whose stage name is Annie Firman, promoted many companies and in the eighties made a tour of the world. Mr. Jack's "Falstaff" was rated by the Metropolitan critics as the best in his time. Mrs. Jack, who resides in New York, is now a popular composer of instrumental music, her most recent production being "The March of the Miners," arranged for bands and orchestras, a copy of which Mr. Jack presented to Mr. McCartney, leader of the Punxsutawney band.

Mr. Jack celebrated his seventieth birthday in February, but aside from a slight lameness caused by a bullet wound which he received in the knee at the second battle of Bull Run, is as hale and enthusiastic as a man of 50.

Spirit 5/9/1906

A large body of miners from Rossiter, headed by a brass band, yesterday marched through town on their way to Walston where the Society of St. Andrews was holding a celebration.

Spirit 8/29/1906

About 200 lodge men and laywomen from this place attended the Grand Lodge meeting of the Pennsylvania Knights of Pythias at DuBois last Thursday.

Spirit 3/20/1907

GATHER AT WALSTON AFTER ATTENDING HIGH MASS AT CHURCH

BAND FURNISHES EXCELLENT MUSIC TO ENLIVEN THE HAPPY OCCASION

St. Joseph's Day was fittingly celebrated by the Garibaldi Society of Walston yesterday.

An Italian band from Altoona under the leadership of Sartorio, who three years ago was leader of the Walston band, was secured for the occasion, and played almost continuously during the day. The band, which has been organized but a little over nine months, undoubtedly contains a number of finished musicians and under the leadership of Mr. Sartorio the band is destined to become one of the best in the State. The band rendered a delightful open air concert.

Spirit 5/25/1907

BIG RUN

The cornet band was in Ridgway Thursday, playing for the Punx'y Red Men.

Spirit 5/25/1907

Richard Ramsey is teaching the Sykesville band. Mr. Ramsey has been leader and instructor of the Reynoldsville Keystone Band, which has made a record for itself in the last decade, and will certainly bring the Sykesville band to a high state of efficiency.

Spirit 5/25/1907

BAND COMPETITION AT RIDGWAY

The Punxsutawney Silver Cornet band won the prize at Ridgway Thursday. The Personator Red Men know a good thing when they see it and are to be complimented on the good judgment used when they employed the Big Run Military band to do their playing at Ridgway.

The Punxsutawney Silver Cornet band belongs to Big Run and are known, when they play most places, as the Big Run Military Band. Punx'y is just west of Big Run, and of course, it is very easy for them to procure first-class supplies from Big Run in every instance.

Spirit 5/25/1907

MEMORIAL SERVICES AT ENGLISH LUTHERAN CHURCH

The G.A.R. with the auxiliary corps, the Women's Relief Corps and the Sons of Veterans assembled Sunday at 10:30 o'clock at the G.A.R. hall. Accompanied by the Hadden Military Band and the Sons of Veterans' Martial Band, they marched in a body to the English Lutheran Church, where memorial services were conducted by Rev. John Frampton.

He had no text for his sermon but spoke at length on the mention which the Bible makes of the word "memorial" and the origin of memorial day services. The ceremonies were concluded by the entire assemblage singing "America."

Spirit 6/14/1907

The Adrian band furnished music for the Garibaldi Society, of Walston, last Wednesday and gave good satisfaction.

Spirit 8/17/1907

ITALIANS CELEBRATED ST. ROQUE'S DAY AT WALSTON

The Italians throughout this section celebrated St. Roque's day yesterday with great elaboration. Most of the mines were closed down for the day and the Italians turned out for a royal good time. At Walston all the societies turned out and the Walston band was in attendance.

Spirit 8/24/1907

District Firemen's Convention at Clearfield

Spirit 8/24/1907

Go to Jefferson Park Sunday, Aug. 25 and hear the band concert afternoon and evening.

Spirit 6/24/1908

ANOTHER BAND FOR JULY 4

George Beck, a member of the Firemen's Committee in charge of the music for the big Fourth of July celebration in Punxsutawney today received assurances that the Eldred Brass Band, the name of which will soon be changed to the Punxsutawney Glass Works Band, will be here to participate on the Fourth.

Fifteen of the twenty members of the band will arrive in Punxsutawney this afternoon to become permanent residents of Punxsutawney. They are all single men with the exception of one.

The new musical organization will be composed of twenty pieces, uniformed in red and blue, and will constitute a desirable acquisition, not only for the Fourth, but for years to come.

Spirit 3/20/1909

Garibaldi Society St. Joseph's Day Celebration

Tomorrow the Garibaldi Society of Walston will feast in honor of St. Joseph. The celebration will begin at 10:30 a.m., when mass will be attended. The society will be attended by the Walston Volunteer Band, under the direction of Prof. Domenico Cateresano.

Spirit 1909

REYNOLDSVILLE TO HAVE A BIG CELEBRATION

Spirit 1909

Arcadia Band to Visit Punxsutawney

The Arcadia band is making an excursion to Punxsutawney on July 5 and will give a band concert in the Square at 1:30 p.m. The band consists of twenty uniformed players and is under the baton of Prof. James Rutherford and is one of the best bands in Indiana County.

Spirit 6/17/1909

FINISHED MUSICIANS: WALSTON'S REMARKABLE TROMBONE PLAYERS

A Walston correspondent, having observed a printed statement to the effect that a certain band in this vicinity had the original Italian slide trombone player, submits the following for publication in The Spirit:

Editor Spirit: As to Italian slide trombone players, I beg to state that Walston has two of them in her band:

• Joe Scarva - playing for four months
• Tom Campersano - playing for three months

Everybody is surprised at these two slide trombone players. They play sweet and low. The slide trombone is one of the best instruments in the world.

Joe Scarva had a valve trombone, and he was getting along fine, and he said to the leader "I am going to get a slide." The leader said to him: "You better not, for the slide is a hard instrument to learn on, and no one here can teach you on this instrument." And Joe Scarva said: "I am going to learn myself." And he learned, and there wasn't anybody who needed to show Joe Scarva anything on a slide trombone.

Spirit 10/12/1909

NEARLY 1,500 MEN IN LINE TO DO HONOR TO MEMORY OF CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS

Spirit 5/9/1910

A CAPABLE LEADER

The Walston Band has been entirely reorganized, and Professor Enrico Colonna, who during the past three years had been the director of some of the best bands in New York, Coney Island and Harrisburg, has taken charge of the reorganized band. Music for concerts, dances and parades will be furnished.

Contact: Felix V. Gatti, manager, Walston, Pa.

Spirit 6/4/1910

The Walston brass band gave a short concert on the public square early this morning. They left on the 7:50 for Hillman, where the Catholic Church is holding a big social affair.

Spirit 6/4/1910

Memorial Day at Marion Center

Memorial Day at Marion Center was a big day, as it always is at Marion Center. The morning looked for rain but kept off until all the services were over. We had a large crowd estimated at from 1,500 to 2,000.

Spirit 6/22/1910

A MUSICAL PRODIGY

Rossiter has a prodigy in the form of an exceptionally talented boy musician. James Colonna, whose parents reside in Walston, is but fifteen years of age, yet he is the efficient leader and instructor of the Rossiter band, an organization of twenty-five pieces. That the youngster is accomplishing great results is the opinion of those who have heard the band.

Spirit 7/18/1910

CITIZENS' BAND MAKING MOST RAPID PROGRESS

The Punxsutawney Citizens' Band, but recently reorganized, is making rapid progress. Practice is held three nights each week, and every member is showing the keenest interest by diligent attendance. Although organized but a month ago, the band is now able to render some creditable music, and expects to give the people of the town proof of its powers by giving an open-air concert some time in the near future.

The citizens of Punxsutawney should extend every aid in their power to the band, and help make it a lasting institution.

Spirit 7/28/1910

BASEBALL

The Walk-Overs and Driscoll's Cubs of Walston are playing this afternoon at East End Park. The Cubs have greatly strengthened their lineup and an interesting game is promised. The Walston band accompanied the visiting team here. Blose will pitch for Walston, Watson for the locals.

Spirit 8/16/1910

CELEBRATION AT WALSTON ON IN FULL SWAY

Yesterday afternoon the Walston Military Band made its appearance and until a late hour entertained the big crowd that assembled with various selections. The string of lights from the Company store to the central portion of town were alight and the scene presented was a lively one.

Spirit 8/22/1910

WALSTON BAND HAS NUMBER OF ENGAGEMENTS ON HAND

About six months ago, Professor Enrico Colonna, who was formerly leader of the Harrisburg band, came to Walston and took charge of the musical organization there. Assisted by his son, Fred, who is one of the most accomplished cornet players in this section, he has made the Walston Band an institution to be proud of. The organization, which consists of twenty-six pieces, has many engagements now on hand.

Spirit 10/1/1910

Rosary Sunday Celebration in Walston

Spirit 10/12/1910

Republican Celebration Features Big Run Band

The Big Run band will be a big part of the Republican celebration here next Friday, when the Republican State candidates will be in Punxsutawney. The Big Run aggregation of musicians, which by the way, is a little bit the best in this part of the country, will arrive here shortly after supper, and will make things hum both inside and outside the theatre where the big meeting will be held.

Spirit 10/12/1910

HALLOWE'EN CELEBRATION PLANNED

Punxsutawney is going to have a Hallowe'en celebration on the night of October 31. Not a corn-throwing, tick-tacking, gate-lifting hullabaloo, but a real, old-fashioned celebration in which the old as well as the young will participate, and of which the big feature will be a Hallowe'en parade with the Punxsutawney band heading the procession.

So much has been decided upon, but just how extensive the celebration will be depends upon the people themselves. In a short time, a solicitor will make the rounds, and everyone will be asked to boost by cash donations. The money will be used to purchase prizes, to hire the Punxsutawney Citizens' Band, and for whatever other needs that turn up.

Spirit 10/12/1910

Big Run Military Band Festival

Spirit 10/13/1910

DELANCEY FOREIGNERS CELEBRATE COLUMBUS DAY

The Walston band was much in evidence and throughout the day regaled the big crowd with patriotic music.

Spirit 10/13/1910

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES ARRIVE HERE TOMORROW

Spirit 10/15/1910

GREAT CROWDS GREET TENER - REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE FOR GOVERNOR

Spirit 10/19/1910

DELANCEY CELEBRATION

The Walston band was much in evidence and throughout the day regaled the big crowd with patriotic music.

Spirit 10/19/1910

NEW PUNXSUTAWNEY BAND SHOWS PROMISE

The recently organized Punxsutawney band Friday night rendered several selections in front of the Spirit office last night which were duly appreciated by the force. Punx'y has had several bands but none that gave such promise as the present organization. With but two months' practice it has developed a degree of efficiency that many similar organizations of from one to five years' standing cannot approach.

Spirit 10/26/1910

BANDS TO PARTICIPATE IN CELEBRATION

1911

BAND NIGHT CAP PARTY

Spirit 7/11/1917

BIG RUN BAND PERFORMS FOR INDEPENDENCE DAY

Spirit 8/15/1917

BAND DIRECTOR CALLED TO SERVICE

Spirit 9/12/1917

FAREWELL CONCERT

Spirit 10/17/1917

LORENZO'S BAND REORGANIZED

Spirit 11/14/1917

BENEFIT CONCERT SUCCESS