Recalling
the Days ofOld-Time Ballot Boxes
By ELEANOR S. MARTIN
As I finished reading the morning paper, I remarked as I cast it aside, "I would like to read some good news for a change."
The sun is coming up over the rooftop across the street, reflecting gold splashes here and there. A spider web sparkles with dew, reaching from the garage roof to a honey-suckle bush in intricate patterns. This is one of the mysteries of nature not fully explained.
This is my kind of a day, warm and cozy inside and brisk outside. It makes one step lively. The walkers will be out in numbers.
I am reminded that Election Day is coming up shortly. Election Day is when you see all the neighbors and get caught up on all the neighborhood news. It must have been stressful for the candidates seeking public office, campaigning so long before the election.
Looking back, I remember Election Day in a small town located in three counties. It had a natural bridge and it was a good place for day dreaming; it was a good place to build castles in the sky and a good place just to make a wish.
If you haven't guessed it already, I'll tell you the name of the town at the end of this story.
This Election Day was very cold and fires were built in drum heaters outside for the comfort of the workers handing out "Vote For Me" posters. During the voting hours, the Sheriff was very much in evidence, keeping down the buying of votes and stopping a fight or two.
Most of the candidates took the people's problems to heart and tried hard to correct them. If one went astray, he didn't last long and was soon voted OUT.
When the polls closed at 6 p.m., the ballot box was sealed and taken to Hardinsburg to be counted. If there were people still standing in line you had to give them the vote.
You still haven't guessed the town? No more clues. It was Big Spring, Kentucky at election time.
May the best man win!