The social news or gossip columns in the old newspapers are always fascinating to read. A special section in the newspaper was devoted to the social media of the day. The whereabouts of local people and events were often featured in these columns. Here are a few from The News Messenger of Lyon County on February 18, 1916:

Miss Mary McNiven returned to her school near Russell, Monday, after a two-weeks’ vacation on account of an epidemic of measles in the district.

Tom Davis left for Washington D.C., Wednesday night, on another damage suit case against the Great Northern Railway, which has been carried up to the United States Supreme Court.

The Marshall Milling Company now has a private telegraphic system, having installed a Western Union Branch office this week.

Miss Anna Van Altvorst and Hubert Dieken were united in marriage at the Church of St. Eloi on Wednesday morning, Feb’y 16th at nine o’clock. The ceremony was performed by Rev. H.V. Van Walleghem.

George Lowe joined the buyers of the line of Olson Stores, in Chicago, this week, where they are selecting spring and summer goods for the ten stores in this section of Minnesota and the Dakotas. A new store was purchased by Martin Olson, at Mandan, last week.

On Saturday evening, the girls of the T.H.B. Club entertained their gentlemen friends at a Leap Year Valentine party at the O. Marcotte home. The rooms were prettily decorated with hearts and cupids. Progressive “five-hundred” and other games were played. A two-course lunch was served. Later, music was enjoyed.

On Wednesday afternoon, Feb. 16th, Miss Dora J. Geiwitz and Mr. Erwin C. Curtis were united in marriage at the Methodist parsonage by Rev. E. H. Goodell. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Geiwitz of Minneota. Mr. Curtis is in the implement business at Ivanhoe. They were attended by Miss Lillian Curtis, Fred Geiwitz and Miss Priscilla Geiwitz.

“Which is Which” was played to a full house at the Barrymore, Monday night. The girls of St. Joseph’s Academy had been well trained and acted difficult roles unusually well for amateur players. The music was an attractive feature. The proceeds are to be used for the new Catholic church.

The photograph featured this week from the Lyon County Museum’s collection is Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, which is located at 503 W Lyon St in Marshall. This photograph was taken not long after the building was completed. The church was dedicated on June 17, 1917. An estimated 1,100 people attended the dedication.

The Lyon County Historical Society (LCHS) is a non-profit, member-supported organization. LCHS operates the Lyon County Museum at 301 W Lyon St in Marshall. The Lyon County Museum is open year-round to visitors. To contact us, visit our website: www.lyoncomuseum.org, call: 507-537-6580, email: director@lyoncomuseum.org, or on our Facebook page.