NEW CENTURY: Revelers in 1901 must have been a quiet bunch. A mere paragraph in the Jan. 2, 1901, Era, marked the event.

“The first day of the new year and century was celebrated rather quietly in Bradford. During the day the streets presented more of a Sunday than a holiday appearance. In the evening a large number of people were out making New Year’s calls on the ladies who gave receptions.”

Also noted under Daily Developments was a dance given at the K.O.T.M. Hall in East Bradford — likely Knights of the Maccabees.

A “big crush of young people” were present at the hall, “where J.W. Jamison’s orchestra gave the second of a number of its dancing receptions at that end of town.”

A business spent the holiday entertaining employees as well.

“Johnson Hose observed New Year’s Day by keeping open house for members at its St. James parlors, last evening. Progressive pedro and a phonograph concert entertained the boys during the evening. The function closed at midnight with a luncheon.”

Rather than a celebration, it was business as usual for another company.

“The structural iron for the Bradford Steel Works has been shipped, and work on the new factory will be commenced as soon as it arrives. The contract called for the erection of the plant before January 1, but on account of the impossibility of getting the iron it was impossible to comply with it.”

And there was this: “There was a large attendance at the masquerade and fantastic cake walk given by the Horseshoe Club at G.A.R. Club last evening. The costumes of the contestants and their fancy steps elicited much applause from the spectators. The cake was awarded to Arthur Parker and Arthur Wright, both of this city.”

What a party.