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. So, check back often for new editions. To share your family or neighborhood stories, please email PhillyWWIyears@gmail.com

TODAY IN PHILADELPHIA – WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5, 1917

There will be overcast skies today with increasing cloudiness as the evening comes. The high is only expected to reach a cool 73° with the overnight low about 56°. Community singing on the north plaza of City Hall has proved so popular that they will now be held every evening for at least the next two weeks. Musical accompaniment will be provided by the Police Band.

Mayor Smith has received a stunning rebuke from republican ward leaders in his own home ward. Republicans of the 28th Ward have signed a letter accusing the Mayor of providing jobs for family members over more qualified ward workers and opposing the recently adopted contract with the Rapid Transit Company which, they claim, favored the corporation over the people’s interests. Finally the letter called out the hypocrisy of slot machine raids on little cigar shops, candy stores and barber shops while gambling and alcohol consumption goes on at republican clubs loyal to the Mayor.

The War Department has issued orders that all Pennsylvania troops proceed to Camp Hancock, Georgia as quickly as possible. It is believed that at least one regiment per day will be transferred starting tomorrow. Philadelphia’s First Regiment is presently encamped at 33rd & Spruce Streets, the Third Regiment is at 69th & Market Streets while the Sixth Regiment is at Drexel Hill.

 

On the sports beat, in football news Secretary of War Baker has announced that he is opposed to the playing of an Army-Navy game this year. The Secretary believes that the energy of the cadets and midshipmen must be directed totally toward the war effort. However, West Point has stated its football team will compete this season albeit without a game against Navy.

In baseball, Socks Seibold held the Boston Red Sox to just 3 hits today but that was all they needed to beat the A’s 2 to 1. The day was worse for the Phillies up in New York against the Giants for a doubleheader. Chief Bender took the mound in the first game but the Giants ended his 6 game winning streak with a 3 to 2 win.  The second game saw the Giants take the lead in the 1st and never lose it, beating the Phillies 5 to 1. The only bright spot for Phillies fans was a home run into the right field bleachers by Gravvy Cravath. The Giants now have a 10 game lead on the 2nd place Phillies.

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