Measles Outbreak Hits Wilmington Schools, Liquor Arrests During Prohibition

Delaware history from The News Journal archives includes a measles outbreak and liquor arrests in 1926, plan to double pay phone rate in 1976.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A measles outbreak has hit Wilmington, Delaware, with over 400 cases reported since January 1st. The city and state health boards are considering closing schools if the spread of the disease does not decrease soon. Meanwhile, two Lewes residents were fined for transporting liquor during Prohibition, and the Diamond State Telephone Company is seeking an 18.7% rate increase, including doubling the cost of pay phone calls.

Why it matters

The measles outbreak in Wilmington highlights the ongoing public health challenges the city faces, as well as the difficult decisions school and health officials must make to balance public safety with minimizing disruption to education. The liquor arrests during Prohibition showcase the ongoing enforcement efforts to curb illegal alcohol sales, while the proposed telephone rate hike reflects the broader economic pressures facing utility companies in the state.

The details

In Wilmington, 188 new measles cases were reported to the Board of Health last week, bringing the total to 410 since January 1st. Health officials say they may have to close schools if the spread of the disease does not slow soon. Meanwhile, two Lewes residents, Dr. William R. Messick and William H. Roach, were fined $450 each in federal court for transporting liquor. The Diamond State Telephone Company is also seeking an 18.7% rate increase, including doubling the cost of pay phone calls to 20 cents.

  • As of last week, 188 new measles cases were reported in Wilmington, bringing the total to 410 since January 1st.
  • The city and state health boards may have to close schools if the measles outbreak does not show a marked decrease soon.
  • Dr. Messick and Mr. Roach were fined $450 each today in federal court for transporting liquor.
  • The Diamond State Telephone Company is requesting the rate increases to take effect on April 17th.

The players

Dr. Fred F. Armstrong

Secretary of the Wilmington City Board of Health.

Dr. Davies

President of the Wilmington City Board of Health.

Dr. David A. Ward

Superintendent of Wilmington public schools.

Dr. William R. Messick

A Lewes resident fined $450 for transporting liquor during Prohibition.

William H. Roach

A Lewes clothing salesman fined $450 for transporting liquor during Prohibition.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.