Day in history for May 2, 2002

1852 -- 150 years ago

Block And Loewenthal opened the Railroad Clothing Store in Rock Island and advertised: ``Chicago And Rock Island Railroad under construction. One thousand men wanted to buy new and fashionable ready made clothing. Give us a call before purchasing elsewhere.''

1877 -- 125 years ago

Alderman H.E. Woods has received a choice consignment of maple sugar from his native Corinth, Vt.

1902 -- 100 years ago

J.W. Caldwell sold his interest in the Rock Island Cotton Mill to William Lowe.

1927 -- 75 years ago

Proceeds from one night's showing at Fort Armstrong Theater will go to the flood relief fund. The Rotary Club of Rock Island has given $231 to the fund.

1952 -- 50 years ago

A $100 annual increase in salary was granted 350 Rock Island public school teachers, clerks and custodians for the 1952-53 school year. Cost of the raise will be about $35,000. This amount will be available from the normal increase in tax money resulting from increased valuations caused by new construction.

1977 -- 25 years ago

Union workers at Illini Beef Packers Inc. walked off the job after members voted overwhelmingly not to accept the new contract the company had proposed. Workers say the proposed contract does not meet their demands for higher wages, longer guaranteed work weeks and increased fringe benefits. Chief among the union demands is an increase in base pay from $5.25 to $6.47.

Back: Available days in May 2002