Day in history for December 14, 2002

1852 -- 150 years ago

The persevering efforts of Father Alleman in building the new Catholic Church are worthy of commendation.

1877 -- 125 years ago

Emma K. Guild, daughter of the proprietor of the Rock Island House, and Charles A. Wright of the firm of Hull And Wright, were married in Broadway Presbyterian Church.

1902 -- 100 years ago

J.S. Freeman resigned as secretary of the YMCA and was succeeded by J.H. Keyser of Decatur. During his five years in the position, Freeman greatly reduced the Y's large debt.

1927 -- 75 years ago

The Rock Island High School Athletic Association presented plans to the board of education for a $250,000 stadium and field house.

1952 -- 50 years ago

A 48-year-old woman today asked a Knox County assistant state's attorney to make her sister stop practicing witchcraft on her. The woman wants to file criminal charges against her 43-year-old sister, who, she says, is cooking her legs. Assistant State's Attorney Dale Ruedig said the woman, whose legs were swollen and red, told him the witchcraft started in September, when squares that looked as if they were baked began to appear on her legs.

1977 -- 25 years ago

A steamboat? At Hardee's? In Milan? ``We have a paddlewheel steamboat right in the middle of our lobby,'' says Tom Ketelsen, general manager of the fast-food restaurant. The restaurant is located at 3rd Avenue and U.S. 67.

Back: Available days in December 2002