Day in history for December 20, 2001

1851 -- 150 years ago

The city of Rock Island for the year 1850-51 received a total of $1,365.96 and paid out a total of $825.67, with a balance in the treasury of $540.29.

1876 -- 125 years ago

John Ohlweiler was voted the most popular Turner at the Turner fair which ended with a very pleasant dance.

1901 -- 100 years ago

T.H. Thomas was nominated by the president as postmaster at Rock Island.

1926 -- 75 years ago

Responses to The Argus questionnaire on religion indicated a decrease in family worship.

1951 -- 50 years ago

Snow-plagued Quad-Citians were getting another stanza of White Christmas today as clouds began dropping what the weatherman said will total three to six inches of new snow. With a 9-inch layer of snow already on the ground, and an added inch fall last night, traffic, school, and street-cleaning problems began multiplying this morning, as the snow started again.

1976 -- 25 years ago

Willis Kuschmann, 77, of Moline, may have set a Quad-City area record. He's been playing Santa Claus at parties and programs every Christmas for 45 consecutive years. For the last 33 years he's been the Santa at the annual Yule party for residents of Oak Glen Home at Coal Valley. Several boys dressed as elves assist Kuschmann at the Oak Glen party. ``I'm now on my second generation of elves,'' Kuschmann said.

Back: Available days in December 2001