100 years ago in Spokane: Skip the fireworks and celebrate preparedness, writer advised

From our archives, 100 years ago

The Spokesman-Review advised its readers to throw a new kind of Fourth of July party: a Preparedness Party.

“Preparedness” was in vogue, because of the real possibility of impending war in Europe and Mexico. “Preparedness” had become, in essence, synonymous with patriotism.

So why not “do away with senseless and often dangerous practice of expensive fireworks,” and invite people to a backyard Preparedness Party?

The society columnist – identified only as Mrs. Adams – advised that the invitations be delivered in cardboard tubes covered with red paper to resemble firecrackers.

The columnist also suggested that a maritime theme would be appropriate. The porch could be decorated to resemble a deck of a ship. She also suggested decorating the table with a cardboard ship. She suggested “fudge cannonballs” and “candles done up in paper to resemble torpedoes.”

It was touted as a “safe and sane” party, without Roman candles.