Day in history for April 20, 2003

1853 -- 150 years ago

The Golden Era packet is making regular weekly trips to Keokuk, Burlington and Galena from Rock Island.

1878 -- 125 years ago

William H. Ross and George W. Henry dissolved partnership, and the firm is to be known as William H. Ross And Co., commission merchants. I.P. Rice became associated with the firm.

1903 -- 100 years ago

Services were conducted morning and evening at Memorial Christian Church by Dr. R.E. Heironymous, president of Eureka College.

1928 -- 75 years ago

Rock Island County Republicans at state convention decided not to enter candidates for Fourteenth District presidential elector.

1953 -- 50 years ago

Meredith Johnson, 39, Moline, has been hired as the new organizational director of the Rock Island County Farm Bureau. His job will consist of recruiting new members, coordinating various Farm Bureau activities, and public relations work.

1978 -- 25 years ago

A funny thing happened to an $8 check on its way from one Davenport address to another. It went to the White House. A note signed by Landon Kite, a White House staff assistant, apologized for the check being opened by the White House mailroom, where it was apparently delivered by mistake. Davenport postmaster John Cogan said the letter probably became stuck behind another letter, which he said sometimes happens when letters are metered.

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