Celebrating the new year has many different faces across the globe and time. From the traditions of throwing open the doors and windows at midnight to let the new in by crossing the threshold of the house on the right foot to a ball dropping in Times Square in New York City, the freshness of the start of a year is worthy of being celebrated. The first recorded mention this holiday took play in Babylon around 4,000 years ago.
In keeping with tradition, this week’s What’s New Wednesday artifact invites you (in 1880) to a dinner and dance. Hopp and Walker, the proprietors of Olds & Fishback Hall in Brookings invited gentlemen and their ladies to supper at the Brookings House followed by dancing at the hall. A committee oversaw the activities, but a good time promised to all who attended. Your ticket of $1.75 each promised both the supper and dancing. In all fairness, in 2023 the tickets equate to $52.81 each, a good sum. Good times to be had by all!
With the newness of a 2024 upon us, we wish you a happy, healthy and beautiful New Year!