Day in history for February 20, 2002

1852 -- 150 years ago

The Messrs. William Marshall, senior and junior, have been appointed agents for the McCormick reaper in northern Illinois counties. Farmers report uniform success with the machine reaper.

1877 -- 125 years ago

Twelve physicians of the Tri-Cities held a discussion of the cause of the epidemic of winter cholera in Rock Island. Drs. Trusedale and Plummer showed by statistics and illustrations that the cause is impure city water, poisoned by sewage. Some of the doctors insisted that the cause is impurities in the atmosphere.

1902 -- 100 years ago

Colonial costumes were worn by men and women at a Martha Washington sociable in Central Presbyterian Church, Rock Island. Sixteen girls presented a flag drill.

1927 -- 75 years ago

Pupils are taking home cards for their parents to sign as authorization of their inoculation against diphtheria.

1952 -- 50 years ago

Plans for construction of a $185,000 gymnasium-auditorium for St. Joseph's School were announced by the Rev. Francis J. Casey, pastor, at a meeting of the Holy Name Society. The building will be situated on the corner of 14th Street and 3rd Avenue, Rock Island.

1977 -- 25 years ago

A Rock Island woman who last fall won first place in a voter turnout program, declared her candidacy for the Black Hawk College Board of Trustees. Hannelore ``Honey'' Huisman will vie for one of three board openings April 9.

Back: Available days in February 2002