Day in history for January 1, 2003

1853 -- 150 years ago

We learn that the Rock Island Bank is issuing shinplasters. The new issue is a check drawn by M.B. Osborn on the bank of Rock Island dated Nov. 1, 1852, they are said to be guaranteed by pledge of public stock worth not less than par, or by such stocks and cash, deposited with the bank.

1878 -- 125 years ago

The Rock Island Public Library receives valuable books from government, including three on zoology from Lt. George M. Wheeler.

1903 -- 100 years ago

Uncle Tom's Cabin is playing at the Illinois Theater.

1928 -- 75 years ago

Attorney James P. Witter of Rock Island has been endorsed by the Rock Island Republican city central committee for judge of circuit court.

1953 -- 50 years ago

The first baby born in Rock Island in 1953 is Jamie Dominic Nonnemann, 8-pounds 4-ounces. The boy was born at 12:35 a.m. to Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Nonnemann at St. Anthony's Hospital.

1978 -- 25 years ago

The practice allowing East Moline taverns to sell liquor licenses, often at a substantially higher price than charged by the city, may end under an ordinance proposed by the public works committee. When aldermen heard a license was sold recently for $12,000, they decided to change the rules. The public works committee agreed that liquor licenses should revert back to the city if a license holder decides to stop selling alcohol.

Back: Available days in January 2003