Day in history for December 26, 2002

1852 -- 150 years ago

The Weekly Republican now circulates postage free in Rock Island County and in the state for 13 cents a year, payable in advance.

1877 -- 125 years ago

The Rock Island Athletic Club will stage Romeo and Juliet at Dart's Hall Jan. 3.

1902 -- 100 years ago

James W. Bragg, a young veteran of the Spanish-American War, is buried with military honors at the Rock Island Arsenal cemetery.

1927 -- 75 years ago

Frank C. Wheeler dies of a neck fracture received in a fall during Christmas revelry.

1952 -- 50 years ago

Hourly pay increases of four cents an hour for men and eight cents for women, and an increase in the night differential from 7 to 9 cents an hour are provided in a new contract negotiated between members of the Amalgamated Meat Cutters And Butcher Workmen of North America, Local No. 431, AFL, and Oscar Mayer Packing Co., Davenport. Negotiations were conducted by representatives of the union and Allen C. Mayer, plant manager for the company.

1977 -- 25 years ago

Thanks to an article she read about the Heimlich method to help a choking person, Myrtle Norris was able to prevent a fellow Rock Island Arsenal employee, Bernice Parein, from choking to death. A doctor later said Ms. Norris' quick action saved Ms. Parein's life. To honor her for her deed, Major General William Eicher, Arsenal commander, presented Ms. Norris a Special Act Award.

Back: Available days in December 2002