CENTURY: In keeping with our bout of exploring Bradford’s history, we looked back to the turn of the 20th century to see what October brought with it.

“An excursion from Meadville and intermediate points carried a large number of people to the Kinzua viaduct yesterday afternoon,” read a story in the Oct. 1, 1900 Era. “Most of the visitors took dinner here.”

Two days later, it was noted that the new Kinzua Bridge, as an excursion attraction, is “greater and better than ever before.”

Local history buffs would know the viaduct reopened to traffic on Sept. 25, 1900, after the original iron bridge was torn down and rebuilt with steel. Construction began on May 26, 1900, and a crew of between 100 and 150 worked 10-hour days for almost four months to complete the new steel frame.

SHOPPING: We found a description of the opening of J. Kreinson’s stores, at 100, 102 and 104 Main Street, in Bradford, which took place Oct. 1 and 2, 1900.

“You are all cordially invited to come and see the beautiful display of our imported hats, also the extensive showing of trimmed hats, toques and bonnets, from our own pattern room,” read an advertisement for the event.

A description of the store’s opening day was featured in the Oct. 2 edition.

“J. Kreinson inaugurated a novelty in millinery and dry goods opening yesterday. Heretofore these functions have invariably taken place in the evening, under the rays of electric lights, with elaborate decorations of flowers, an orchestra, etc.

“These accessories were not considered necessary this year as the pretty hats and beautiful millinery creations were considered sufficient to satisfy the most critical.

“Crowds of ladies from the city and suburbs thronged the three Kreinson stores all day and inspected and admired the goods displayed.

“The opening will continue today until 4 o’clock this afternoon and will doubtless attract many people.”