Day in history for November 17, 2002

1852 -- 150 years ago

The work of grading for the Rock Island Railroad between Geneseo and Green River will start soon. Henry County farmers who have not paid for their stock in the railroad can redeem their pledges in labor or supplies.

1877 -- 125 years ago

Invitations were issued by the Phoenix volunteer fire company to its fifth annual game supper and dance the evening of Thanksgiving day. The member who kills the most game on Thanksgiving day will receive a silver medal.

1902 -- 100 years ago

St. Mary's Cemetery, South Rock Island, was dedicated yesterday. Because rain interfered with the ceremony, the dedication sermon will be preached in church next Sunday.

1927 -- 75 years ago

Assistant Postmaster E.L. Strate won first prize in The Argus picture puzzle contest.

1952 -- 50 years ago

The longest drought of record in the Quad-City area, 45 days without measurable rain, was broken when rain began to fall at 4:37 o'clock yesterday afternoon and continued intermittently during the night.

1977 -- 25 years ago

Stan Woods, administrative assistant at Moline High School, was only joking last week when he told tardy senior Tony Chinn he'd awaken him personally each morning if Chinn pitched a tent in front of his office. Chinn, however, figuring one good joke deserved another, called Woods' bluff and pitched a pup tent in front of the administrator's office early this morning.

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