Back in November, 1910, a light bulb went on above the head of Peter Fera of New Liskeard.
As Cochrane Public Library archivist Ardis Proulx-Chedore found out, he wanted a franchise to supply electricity to Cochrane.
“Mayor McManus asked him to submit a proposal in writing to be examined by council and their solicitors,” she reads from the local newspaper of the time. “Northland Post is dubious of having such a public utility provided by business, but expects council to protest the interests of the public.”
Fera had experience, as the owner of a steam plant in New Liskeard.
ADS HOLD HISTORY, TOO
Advertisements might not as pivotal to the history of a town as the articles in the Northland Post, but they’re an interesting peek back in time.
Proulx-Chedore says that in the November 11th, 1910 edition of the Post was an ad from Frank A. Child Hardware and Iron Merchant,offering for sale a Chancellor cooking range.
“Pop’s carbonated lime juice and soda at a dollar was delivered to your home ‘and will prevent typhoid fever from touching you,’” she continues. “The B. Rothschild’s Stores had just opened. Large shipments of furs and rubber boots and other men’s and ladies’ wear.”
In addition, Taylor’s Book and Fancy Goods offered stationery and china,while A.E. Mallette was selling clocks for up to $10.50, “gongs and all”.