Ban on Public Gatherings in Roanoke, Randolph, Alabama http://files.usgwarchives.net/al/randolph/newspaper/ban.txt ----------------------------------------------------------------------- USGENWEB NOTICE: In keeping with the USGenWeb policy of providing free information on the Internet, this data may be used by non-commercial entities, as long as this message remains on all copied material. These electronic pages cannot be reproduced in any format for profit or other gain. Copying of the files within by non-commercial individuals and libraries is encouraged. Persons or organizations desiring to use this material for purposes other than stated above must obtain the written consent of the file contributor. The submitter has given permission to the USGenWebArchives to store the file permanently for free access. ALGenWeb File Manager - Carolyn Golowka -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by William Fischer, Jr. February 2001 [The severity of the influenza epidemics of 1918-1919 and 1919-1920 is evidenced by a ban on public gatherings in Roanoke, which came in the aftermath of extensive county-wide illness, including seven deaths in the Byrd L. GAY extended family of Randolph county] BAN IS PLACED ON GATHERINGS ------------------------ At a called meeting of the mayor and council held Saturday [21 Feb 1920] morning the city authorities and their medical advisors thought best to order that no public gatherings be held in Roanoke till the wave of influenza subsides. Consequently the schools are adjourned, no church services are held and the picture shows are not running. This order will make necessary the postponement of the Sunday School Institute advertised to be held here March first to third. It is urged that every person observe all the rules of precaution laid down against contracting the flu, keeping the system in perfect order, and avoiding as far as possible all crowds anywhere. The malady is still very general, though it is believed that better conditions will soon begin to follow in the wake of the precautions taken. [From The Roanoke Leader (Randolph County, Alabama), 25 Feb 1920, p.1]