Back in the late 1980s, while at work at the old Windham Courier, state legislator Ernest Greenlaw brought us a copy of a 1908 “news letter” that had belonged to his grandmother, Carrie Alinda May (Phinney) Greenlaw.

The Lyceum Gazette, a collection of handwritten poems, notes and news about East Windham families of that time, was read at a meeting of the East Windham Lyceum League. This seems to be one of those organizations created by neighbors, such as local sewing circles.

The documents were dated Jan. 7, 1908, and announced the end of the Gazette, as well as one last week’s news, verbatim:

“Your humble Editress, Carrie A.M. Greenlaw, by order of the East Windham Lyceum League, is now about to read the last published issue of the famous Lyceum Gazette. This issue opens with weather predictions for the coming week. Look for pleasant weather from the 7th to the 14th, but don’t be surprised should a heavy No. East Snowstorm from the So. West fall upon us, which will probably turn to rain.

“Many of the Gazette Prophesies of long ago have been fulfilled and among some of the most miraculous ones which have come to pass is that Mr. Willis Austin, so well-remembered in this town has long since become an experienced clerk in one of the leading dry goods department stores of New York City, having gained a reputation in this branch of business in his early home in the town of Windham, matching goods for calico dresses.

“Many wise Prophesies as well as wise Debates are made and memories of those good Old Lyceums held in the old red schoolhouse are still among the pleasantest of life.

“We wish to announce that Harry Willey would like to purchase a thoroughbred leghorn rooster as the one he recently purchased off Sumner Libby in exchange for two bushels of fine potatoes, has passed away. After using all the skillful medical aid and applying all the remedies at hand, the valuable bird turned up his toes and died. Mr. Willey wishes to replace this bird as soon as possible. Please call at the Willey Poultry Farm.

“Lost: a little yellow dog with black feet, shaggy coat, side whiskers and a curly tail. A liberal reward is offered. Call or address Jim Sangell.

“This is to certify that I have this day made an assignment for the benefit of my creditors to Elijah Varney. All due me must be settled at once. (signed) Guy Foy, Windham, Maine, Feb. 5, 1908.”

A Lyceum, according to Merriam-Webster, is a group that does lectures, debates, etc. If you know of such a group in East Windham in the late 1800s or if any of these names sound familiar to readers, the Windham Historical Society would be interested. The “last” Lyceum Gazette, referred to above, also included a lengthy poem about Lott Morrell and a man whose name was spelled “Barberrick.”