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 Aug. 28, 1896:

Miss Stewart, deputy, is in command of the Clerk of Court’s office at the court house this week, while Clerk of Court Odell is at the Populist conventions helping put the Populist party into the Democratic pocket, or vice versa, which?

Joe Ciesielski’s runaway team, like the brook seems to be going on forever. The team ranaway from him a week ago last night, while he was driving toward town, and near the Brown farm four miles east of town, the buggy was overturned, and the occupants thrown out, and presumably the team is running yet. At least no trace of them can be found, although an advertisement in another column will probably bring them home in a day or two.

Gene Kennedy, the base ball man, has severed his connection with May’s barbering establishment, and has opened a neat shop in the Hotel Atlantic.

Mrs. Breen and Miss McManime are in Chicago, purchasing millinery goods.

H.M. Langland went to Chicago markets this week for Langland, Arvesen & Co’s department store.

Ladies, if you are going to the G.A.R. Encampment you will need a new hat and veil for traveling. Mrs. Breen has the newest and nobbiest sailors and walking hats out. Come in and see them whether you wish to buy or not.

Through agent King’s efforts the Northwestern road will increase their 15 day limit on G.A.R. excursion tickets to from here St. Paul to a 30 day limit. This is the same as offered by the Great Northern. Tickets at the reduced rates will be on sale Monday on both roads.

The new Methodist church at Lynd is now finished with the exception of putting in the pews, which will be received next week. All the work is paid for and a good balance is on hand to apply on payment for the pews. Next Sunday, Rev. Hall, the pastor will hold services in the new building, at 11 o’clock a.m., the new chairs purchased by the Epworth League being used until the pews are put in. Rev. Hall is now in correspondence with the presiding elder of this district in regard to dedicatory ceremonies.

The photograph featured this week from the Lyon County Museum’s collection shows the Methodist Church and parsonage. The photograph was taken in 1911.

The Lyon County Historical Society (LCHS) is a nonprofit, member-supported organization. LCHS operates the Lyon County Museum at 301 West Lyon Street 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.