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Newspaper
Topeka State Journal
Location
Topeka, Kansas, United States of America
Date
Dec 25, 1897
Page
1
A massive fire and collapse ripped through the Coliseum, started by crossed electric wires during a manufacturers exhibition. Dozens injured including firemen, with many believed dead. Names, roles, and specific victims listed, amid details of the blaze, structural failure, and loss of property.
A deadly fire swept through the Arc Theatre causing rapid collapse of the roof and rampant flames. Watchman aided egress as crowds fled through open doors and balconies, with several crushed but no reported fatalities. The disaster followed by rapid reconstruction plans led to a new venue opening June 1, 1836, with a 120000 dollar insurance multi‑party coverage and 100 booths expected to showcase goods after the loss.
A New York dispatch reports James I Clements at the Lafayette hotel showing a gilded Christmas tree claimed as the finest or among the finest. The holiday centerpiece draws attention as a symbol of wealth and spectacle in the Klondike lore.
Christmas celebrations lit all city churches with crowds attending services and events. Santa Claus drew the largest crowds, delivering gifts and greeting children across multiple congregations in a festive season wrap.
An unusually elegant Christmas Eve program filled city churches with Sunday school children and families. Santa Claus distributed gifts as scenes from Annie and Willie's Prayer unfolded on stage, with Mrs. Hoten Moses arranging the events and a sled-shaped candy gift for each child.
The school staged a Christmas entertain ment using stateopticon views showing Palestine and modern scenes. Santa and baskets of nuts delighted children as parish leaders distributed gifts. Services across churches featured choirs, cantatas, and holy communions with offerings for aged clergy and charity for the poor.
The Arion society held its annus Christmas Eve event at their hall on lower Kansas avenue. A large decorated Christmas tree stood at the hall as Bernard Lippert, William Bower and Charles Ortman oversaw arrangements and gift distribution to 195 children. After presents, the floor opened for a dance with Steinberg's orchestra. An afternoon dancing matinée is planned and a January 1 masquerade ball will be held for members and invited guests.
A classified notice announces a bid to buy three West Indian islands. Details are sparse in the readable excerpt, noting the purchase intent and geographic scope without listing parties, prices, or deadlines.
Washington dispatch reports Senator Lodge backing a bill to authorize purchase of the Danish West Indies islands St Thomas, St John, and nearby lands. Negotiations with Denmark and European powers have shaped the talks, with aims to transfer jurisdiction to the United States for a small price. The trio covers about 1000 square miles with roughly 10,000 inhabitants and fertile tropical crops.
Christmas at the White House was quiet and peaceful after the president’s bereavement. The day saw no official functions, doors seldom opened, and a convey conveyed by a short drive for the president and Mrs. McKinley. Mornings brought flowers, and Mrs. Dickenson assisted the president as he walked with Mrs. McKinley appearing well. The Christmas dinner was described as a private family affair.
Governor Pingres granted a Christmas pardon to Thomas Howard who had been imprisoned at Michigan Penitentiary. Convicted in May for criminal counting, he had denied guilt. The pardon followed a pension board recommendation. Howard formerly traveled for Jamies H. Walker of Chicago. His wife lives in Topeka Kansas.
Christmas reduces shop activity in Topeka as many workers stay home or visit relatives. Train services run unchanged with some trains annulled. Some crews work while others enjoy hunting parties or bachelor dinners. Local merchants advertise remedies from Wits Little Early Risers and list G W Stinefeld and Olof Ekberg at Kansas Avenue.
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