100 years ago: Rain brings 15-degree drop in temperature

From the Lawrence Daily Journal-World for Sept. 9, 1913:

  • “The full force of the cold wave still is lingering somewhere in the rear but with a few drops of rain last night and a continuance of the cloudy skies today the temperature was again kept down, although no records for coolness were established. The clouds which were all day in gathering yesterday finally loosened up a trifle about 3:45 and for several minutes there continued a very decent shower. Then there was a cessation and the sun took command again. A little later other clouds appeared and the rain began again. Intermittent showers continued during the entire evening, although the total rainfall was scarcely measurable. The showers, however, brought results in the way of lower temperatures, the thermometer dropping about fifteen degrees in a couple of hours. This made the night much cooler and better for sleeping purposes. The clouds were still in possession this morning and although they failed to give up any more rain the sun was hindered in its cooking process and there are indications of more relief in the very near future. The weather man is hopeful and the change, slight as it was, is very agreeable and will help very much if more arrives soon.”
  • “Despondency said to have been caused by the objection to her keeping company with a certain young man caused Bessie Stone, 16 years old, who lives at 242 Locust street, to attempt suicide last night about 11:45 by drinking carbolic acid. Dr. H. T. Jones, who attended the girl last night, stated this morning that she had a very fair chance for recovery. She regained consciousness this morning and although terribly burned by the acid rested fairly easy.”
  • “Thirty years ago Ed Anderson came to Lawrence from Sweden. He was young and green and wanted a job. He secured a job in a restaurant in the building where Fred Boyles is now located. He washed dishes at $15 per month. He now owns the building in which the restaurant was. His next job was waiting tables for Harry Hatson. Mr. Anderson now owns the building in which he then worked. Ed Anderson has always worked and always saved. He makes no complaint about a poor man not having any chance.”