Noteworthy editorials — Poetry of Census taking

The upcoming 1920 U.S. Census a century ago put an editorial writer at The Post-Star of Glens Falls, N.Y. in a poetic mood.

“Out across the frozen stretches of wildest Alaska, a man bearing the authority of the United States Government will spur a dog team from camp to camp as he takes down for Uncle Sam for which he has been sent,” the writer mused in an editorial published Jan. 6, 1920.

“Into the sugar and tobacco plantations of the little island of Porto (sic) Rico, emissaries of the United States government will make their way to learn the facts. … Even along the beach of the Waikiki, in far off Hawaii, native and beach comber alike will give the facts concerning him self.”

Most important, residents of the Glens Falls area should be cooperative when the census taker comes calling.

“One of these days, if you have not already been, in answer to a summons from the front-door bell, you will be confronted by a person who wants to know … . When this person appears, don’t get angry and slam the door in his face. Tell him what he asks you. He’s the census taker. Uncle Sam is counting noses.”