From The Indianapolis News, Saturday, January 10, 1914: Chief of Police Samuel Perrott issued an order to policemen at roll call last night to suppress the practice of giving free prizes in drawings at the motion picture theaters throughout the city. The giving of prizes is regarded as a form of gambling. It has been customary for several months in certain theaters to offer a weekly prize to persons holding lucky numbers given out with admittance tickets. The prizes have consisted largely of foodstuffs such as potatoes, flour, and sugar. They have been much sought by housewives and have become one of the principal drawing cards of the photoplay houses. Also, an order has been given prohibiting Sunday theater performances, however Mayor Joseph Bell does not propose to interfere with picture shows.
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.