The Allentown Messenger was a rich resource for records of life in the
lively village of Allentown. It records many interesting tidbits of town business, news, and
important figures in our local history. The Post Office opened its doors at 6:30 am and
closed at 9:00 pm. The local source of public transportation was the Allentown Stage that
connected with the Pennsylvania Railroad and the trolley for Trenton at Yardville.
Allentown was a favorite spot for summer vacations and boating parties. The
moonlit lake was enjoyed by many. In the May 12th issue of 1910 the question was
asked “What do you expect in a suit of clothes?” the Trenton Clothing Company asked.
The answer given…the average Allentown young lady expects a young man who can play
baseball and tennis, row a boat, and drive a horse with one hand when necessary, and one
who will not take her by devious paths when the straight and narrow way leads them to
the door of the best ice cream parlor in town. In the March 23rd issue of 1905, the
Allentown Council left the issue of securing a water plant up to the citizens.
“Our Council
will not take action to secure us a water plant unless the sentiment of the town is
unmistakable in demanding it. Unless we get these water works our town will not show a
progress that is symmetrical. They are needed to be in keeping with out new bank, our
new hall, and our macadamized streets. And, by the way, this new roadway will no double
be built next year. We should have the water pipes laid before this paving is done”.
In
February of 1909 the “Around Home” columnist urges the Improvement Association to
move “to agitate the formation of a gas plant”. Butter is high at 12 cents a pound. On May
9, 1910, a son born to Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Ruthberg, the first Jewish baby ever born in
Allentown. Allentown was a growing town, but proud of being a small business and
residential community, which made a trolley unnecessary. Another proud aspect of
Allentown was its many Civil War Veterans.