Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 20, Number 32, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 23 December 1898 — An Old-Time New Year. [ARTICLE]

An Old-Time New Year.

The method in vogue in New York City half a century ago was for the ladies of the family to remain at home, much as

they do now. while the gentlemen went abroad visiting friends. The visitor entered, shook hands, took a seat, conversed for a few moments, and after partaking of refreshments—of which boned turkey and pickled oysters were the staple dishes and sherry and whisky the most popular drinks—had another handshaking and terminated the visit. The custom is of Dutch origin.