A tidbit of history about "Newfoundland's New Year's Celebrations", courtesy of "The ShoreLine" Conception Bay South, NL. One of the interesting things about New Year and the various celebrations that take place today is that more emphasis is placed on it than years ago. According to the newspapers fifty years ago it was low key For example, there is no mention of a special meal or dance being held at the "Newfoundland Hotel", which was the largest establishment in the city at that time. On December 21st there was an ad for the "Bella Vista Country Club" informing the public that tickets for New Year's Eve were on sale for $ 8.00 per double. Music to be supplied by "Cronin's Orchestra". Dress optional. On December 23rd the "Piccadilly Club" advertised a New Year's Eve dance with the "Rythmaires" {7 piece} Orchestra. Tickets were $ 6.00 per double. Dress informal. As late as December 31, "The Old Colony" Club was informing members holding tickets for the New Year's Eve Ball to please check on table reservations. For those who wanted to dress formally for New Year's Eve, the "Royal Stores" offered dresses fashioned from nylon net and lace, velvet and taffeta. These dresses were in the season's latest styles and colours, and were priced from $ 23.95--$61.50. There were also delightful dinner gowns in assorted colours and black, in various sizes. The cost was $18.95--$36.95. Meanwhile at "Ayre & Sons", men could purchase a double breasted Tuxedo for $77.00, while full dress with tails cost $80.00. A formal shirt cost $6.95--$7.50 and a new pair of shoers cost $9.70--$11.40. Of course there were undoubtedly many house parties taking place as well. If one enjoyed bingo one could go to St. Joseph's Parish Fair, where you could get 20 games for .50. There were also Wheels offering chocolates and nylon stockings as prizes. One could also of course take in a movie since there were six theatres. During one holiday season Walt Disney's Dumbo was offered at the Capital, Alice in Wonderland was on at the Nickel, The San francisco Story was at the York, Re-union in Reno was at the Paramount, Oklahoma Annie was at the Star while My Favourite Spy with Bob Hope and Hedy Lamare was featured at the Cornwall. The most striking difference fifty years ago is that many Churches offered special services to coincide with entering the New Year. For example both St. Mary's and St. Thoma's {Church of England} had watchnight service beginning at 11:p.m.. Both Wesley and Cochrane Street {United Church} offered watchnight services at 11:15 p.m. as well. In Conception Bay South area services were also available. Rev. R. Reeves at Topsail United held a service at 11:15 and Lt. W. J. Norman of the Salvation Army was offering a midnight service beginning at 11:30 On New Year's Day, Rev. G. Elliot was holding a service at Hopewell at 3:00 p.m. with members of the LOA scheduled to attend. Back in 1953 one had both a secular and religious way to bring in the New Year. For at least six persons the latter would have been a wiser decision!! For example six motorists were arrested over the Christmas holiday weekend for drunk driving and appeared in Magistrate's Court. Allwere remanded for eight days, with a bail set at $ 400.00 each. Arrested were three labourers, a Salesman, a van driver and a Doctor. Have A Safe and Happy New Year!