On April 12, 1859 a pack of hoodlums descended on the dark town of Bloomington and destroyed property. A total of three gates were removed and carted away, indicating a pack of hoodlums rather than a single actor. Mr. J.L. Rice's gate was taken away and left on the property of John Smith. Mr. Smith's gate was taken off and its location was unknown. Mr. S. W. Ainsworth's gate was taken down and a group of cattle entered the yard. His flowers and shrubbery were destroyed by the cattle. At the home of an unnamed man a chicken was killed and tied to the door knob!
These depredations were taken very seriously, especially by Mr. Rice. He knew of no one whom he had offended or any debt he had failed to satisfy. He announced that he was at #9 Front Street during working hours and would be at his home from six in the evening until breakfast. This seems as if he was inviting late night interruptions. I hope that he did not regret his choice of words.
Of course this story draws a picture for me, a town with yards protected by fences and gates and cattle roaming freely. Young men running wild in the streets in their top hats and long duster coats. And of course, Mr. Rice primly sitting in his store or office, waiting for the miscreants to tell him what offense he had given.
