On this page we will look back at life in the city during the war years. Here we will provide the visitor with the stories making the news, what was happening in sports and entertainment, city politics, the social scene and the prominent people at the time. We will also recount the events occurring in the war on that day. So, check back each day for new editions.

To share your family or neighborhood stories, please email PhillyWWIyears@gmail.com

TODAY IN PHILADELPHIA – THURSDAY, MAY 18, 1916

There are clear skies over the city today with moderate winds from the northwest. The temperature will remain on the cool side with the high about 61° and the low near 46°.

The sanitation workers of this city held their annual parade today on Broad Street. Not surprisingly with the election over, none of the politicians who usually attend felt it necessary to make an appearance. The Brothers Vare were absent as were Senator Penrose and state Senator McNichol. Even the Mayor failed to attend. But 2,000 “White Wings” as they are affectionately known marched proudly in their sparkling white uniforms with their brooms and shovels on their right shoulders like soldiers carrying rifles. They marched in divisions, interspaced by a brass band. And each division was accompanied by a motorized street sweeper or a water sprinkler truck or an old fashion horse drawn ash cart.

For those interested in musical entertainment tonight under the stars, the Municipal Band will be performing at Womrath Park, Frankford & Kensington Avenues. All summer concerts are free.  And indoors tonight at the Academy of Music, Broad & Locust Streets, the Philadelphia Orchestra will give a “pop” concert featuring soprano Helen MacNamee Bentz. The performance will open with the William Tell Overture. The Orchestra will be led by Mr. Daniel Maquarre. As with the outdoor concerts all the “pop” concerts are free.

On the sports scene, in boxing last night at the National A.C., 11th & Catherine Streets, 5 bouts were on the card but fans where really only there to see one fight in particular. It was the bout between two aged Negros, both well known among boxing fans of this city. John Henry Johnson born in this city 56 years ago met Kentucky Rosebud whose Christian name is Walter Edgerton and admits to being a spry 61.

Although Kentucky is thought to have been born in Virginia or even in North Carolina he has resided in this city long enough to be considered one of our own. These two featherweights have known each other a long time. Their first match was in 1891. But their most well-known fight was in a pool hall in 1894 when Rosebud saw Johnson and put up his fists ready for a brawl. Johnson grabbed a pool cue and took a swing after which Kentucky took out a pistol and shot Johnson in the face. The bullet only grazed John Henry and he was not seriously hurt. Since then the pair have fought at least 6 times and it is rumored become friends. Last night the men fought for 6 rounds with the decision going to Johnson.

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