From The Indianapolis Star, Monday, March 16, 1914: What is believed to have been the most radical plan ever adopted by an Indianapolis mayor to stop the illegal Sunday sale of liquor was disclosed yesterday by Mayor Joseph Bell in a letter to Chief of Police Samuel Perrott. The mayor had sixty citizens investigating saloons last Sunday, with the result that thirty-one were found to be selling liquor. While declaring that most of the 650 saloon keepers wish to obey the law, the mayor stated he has plans for the future which will make it impossible for a saloon man to sell liquor on Sunday and escape arrest. As a result of this investigation many policemen in whose districts the saloons were found open will be called upon to explain why they cannot enforce the liquor laws rigidly.
If you would like a collection of these “100 Years Ago this Week” the Bona Thompson Memorial Center, 5350 E. University (Irvington) has the last 3 years in 3 booklets – $10 per set. They are open Wed. 1-3pm, Sat. & Sun.1-4pm. All proceeds benefit the Irvington Historical Society.