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Until May, 1888, there was no incorporated village of Norwood. All the improvements were being made by developers, community improvement societies and individuals. One of the concerns was public lighting, especially street lighting at intersections. Although most of the following related to East Norwood, probably because the writer was a resident there, South Norwood was also active in placing street lighting in its subdivisions. Old Norwood eventually followed suit. The following clippings are from the Cincinnati Times-Star.
November 2, 1887
"The eighteen street lamps now scattered about East Norwood will be lit very soon."
November 3, 1887
"The lamps of East Norwood will shine forth in all their brilliancy this evening for the first time."
November 4, 1887
"Society at East Norwood was all agog last night over the advent of the new lamps. The improvement is appreciated."
November 5, 1887
"Wouldn't it be a good idea to light up the station at the junction for the benefit of the "night owls" who arrive from town on the midnight train?" (Obviously, the citizens were not going to be satisfied! Give them 18 street lights, and they want "just one more" for their late night excursions.)
November 14, 1887
"East Norwood 'night owls' may now rejoice. A handsome new lamp has been sent out by the C., W. & B. people, and it will hereafter illuminate the platform at the station, where all has been darkness in the past." (Now will the citizens be satisfied?)
November 17, 1887
"The East Norwood Improvement Committee wish to have it distinctly understood that it is utterly impossible for them to light everybody's front yard, but they aim to place the lamps where they will be of the most benefit to pedestrians to and from the railroad station. As this is the reason given by some residents for not subscribing, the Committee wish to be thoroughly understood in the matter." (Nope, everyone is not satisfied!)
November 25, 1887
"Old Norwood has profited by the lesson taught by her younger sisters—East and South Norwood—and several of the public spirited citizens of the former place have placed lamps in front of their residences without the aid or co-operation of an Improvement Society. Still, with organization, better things could be accomplished."
December 3, 1887
"There was but one street lamp burning in East Norwood this morning, and that was the last one nearest the Methodist Church, as if in exemplification of John Wesley's saying, 'While the lamp holds out to burn the vilest sinner may return.'" ... and ...
"East Norwood now has a reflector lamp on its south platform, and the commuters are accordingly that much happier."
... and ...
"The convenience of street lamps and improved crossings was hardly known in the Norwoods until last evening."(These people really want their street lights!)
December 6, 1887
"Another consignment of lamps has been received at East Norwood."
December 10, 1887
"There was joy over in the wilderness last night because a street lamp was placed at East Norwood's 'dark corner'—Beech street and Norwood avenue." (Finally! Maybe this will satisfy Ren Mulford, Jr.! This was close to his home.)
December 29, 1887
"Smith's road is not only well 'planked' now, but it is well lighted as well."
January 30, 1888
"Two large gas lamps that used to adorn the front of the old Government Buildings on Fourth and Vine streets are now doing service in South Norwood. They are situated on Ashland avenue, one at the corner of Smith road and the other at Monroe avenue." |