100 years ago: Thinking cool thoughts: Ice-skating rink suggested for park

From the Lawrence Daily Journal-World for July 12, 1912:

  • “Some of those who have seen ice skating in Chicago, upon what was formerly the Midway, have recognized the possibilities for similar rinks in Lawrence since the storm sewer has been extended through Central Park. The plan suggested would be to have the low part of Central Park flooded to the depths of a few feet in the early winter, that the first heavy freeze might make ice for skating. The water would be so shallow that there would be no danger from drowning even though the ice should break, and having the open air skating rinks right in the heart of the city would give an impetus to that healthful exercise. Traps could be made through which the water could be drained as soon as the cold weather was over and the park could be put in shape for summer use. This appears to be a practical suggestion that might be put into effect with little expense, and right now with the temperature around the ninety mark, it is a pleasant thing to think of anyway.”
  • “Four masked men held up the southbound Katy Limited which left Kansas City at 5:30 yesterday evening. The bandits held the train two hours three miles south of Coffeyville this morning during which time the passengers and train men were corralled and guarded in coaches by two of the robbers while the other two made several attempts to blow the safe in the baggage car.”
  • “The Rev. J. W. Alderman, a Methodist Episcopal churchman widely known in Kansas, died yesterday morning at his Kansas City home, 1548 Minnesota avenue, on the Kansas side. Death was due to a disease contracted during the civil war, when he served as chaplain with an Ohio company.”