May 14, 1909: Above, the drama of daily life in early 20th century Los Angeles. Please point out this story to anyone who thinks the past was a “kinder, simpler time.” Below, the attempted rape of 13-year-old Neruda Nielson after she got off a streetcar at Central Avenue and 52nd Street. Neruda’s only identification of the attackers is that she thought they might be African American.
William J. Searcey and his brother Louis are suspects, The Times says the next day … A quart of medicinal whiskey is 75 cents … And yes, this is 1909 instead of 1908. I didn’t notice until I had had the page half-built. Next year, I’ll go back and pick up May 14, 1908, so everything will even up!
ladailymirror.com 