NORTH EAST, Md. – In recognition of the 2011 Black History Month theme of “African Americans and the Civil War,” Eric F. Mease will conduct a free presentation about African Americans from Cecil County who fought in the Civil War at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 23, in Room 106 of the Technology Center on Cecil College’s…
From Chiefs to Bailiffs: Searching for Photos of Earlier Leaders of the Elkton Police Department
Photographs of Elkton Police Chiefs line a wall at the town police station. Starting with the first, George M. Potts (1908-1935), there are images of many of the departments 20th century commanders. But before the officer appointed to maintain law and order carried the rank of chief, the town lawman was known as the bailiff. …
Sheriff’s Office Takes Step Forward in 20th Century Law Enforcement by Providing Patrol Cars
After years of arguing over whether the Sheriff’s department should have county-supplied police cars, the agency finally started patrolling in official vehicles in 1968. In opposition to the plan, one commissioner said that if we give cars to those deputies, they’ll just go out and ride all over the county. Others argued it would cost too much…
Some Inspiring Preaching & Moving Service at Wright’s AME on Rev. King’s Birthday
At Wright’s African Methodist Episcopal Church, a standing-room only crowd gathered early this Monday morning to celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. This was the 21st annual celebration, the Cecil County observance having been started by Commissioner Charles Givens and Robert Davis to honor the civil rights leader locally. Rousing music…
The Police Beat in Rising Sun in 1900
RISING SUN POLICE IN 1900 — In the hours before sunrise on a peaceful Sunday morning in December 1910, a barking dog disturbed the tranquility of Rising Sun. The incessant yapping, as the animal furiously yanking on its chain, roused Rising Sun’s Town Officer, Nathan Britton, who had been sleeping soundly at home. The bailiff,…
One of Elkton’s Old Congregations, Providence United Methodist Church
The brilliant blue sky that followed a light dusting of snow in Cecil County caused us to grab our camera and head out to grab a few images as the day highlighted the attractiveness of some of Elkton’s historic structures. These two photos show the Providence United Methodist Church, one of Elkton’s old congregations, the…
The Wheels of Justice: Elkton Police Mount Bicycle Patrol in 1900
To the consternation and dismay of crooks, felons, and troublemakers, the Elkton Town Council decided to provide its tiny police force with greater mobility in Nov. 1900. At a council meeting that month, the town purchased a bicycle for $10, allowing their lawman to pedal rapidly around the municipality. Once it arrived, Bailiff George Biddle,…
From HDGHistory: King of Kings: Engravings From Lost Voices
From HDGHistory By Adam Rybczynski Located a short distance from Havre de Grace is the Perry Point VA medical center. The primary function of the Perry Point VA is treatment of mental health. The hospital was created in 1919 and has evolved over the years to the significant role it now provides veterans. Living in…
Elkton Vintage Base Ball Club Announces 2011 Schedule
April 3 Eclipse BBC of Elkton at Athletic BBC of Philadelphia April 9 Diamond State BBC of Delaware at Eclipse BBC of Elkton April 10 Dauntless BBC of Havre de Grace at Cecil BBC of Chesapeake City April 10 Athletic BBC of Philadelphia at Cecil BBC of Chesapeake City April 17 Flemington %eshanock at Eclipse…
Valentines Weekend Program Explores Elkton’s Marriage History
If you are interested in learning about Elkton’s history as a place for quick marriages, the Historical Society of Cecil County is hosting a free lecture on Feb. 11. 2011, at 7:00 p.m. Stop in to hear historian Mike Dixon talk about when the marriage industry thrived in Elkton and the honeymoon express arrived in town everyday. …