Day in history for May 30, 2003

1853 -- 150 years ago

Four large rafts of lumber landed here during the past week. The largest load was purchased by George Mixter for his lumber business.

1878 -- 125 years ago

Today was Memorial Day. The soldiers' monument in the courthouse square was decorated. Among the speakers were Capt. L.M. Haverstick, Dr. P. Gregg, the Rev. G.R. Palmer, Judge Glenn and others. The Oquawka band played at the levee.

1903 -- 100 years ago

Rain marred the observance of Memorial Day. The exercises of the morning were held in the Illinois Theater. T.J. Fitzpatrick of Dubuque was the speaker. There was a parade. The afternoon ceremonies had to be abandoned.

1928 -- 75 years ago

Memorial Day was observed in Rock Island with a patriotic parade through the business district and exercises at the courthouse and cemetery commemorating gallant service of soldiers dead.

1953 -- 50 years ago

For the first time in more than a decade RCA Victor Corporation has recorded the Augustana choir. A continuous 8-hour recording session was held, with just one 45-minute break, to record approximately 50 minutes of music. The Augustana choir will be the first choral group to appear on the RCA Victor Bluebird label.

1978 -- 25 years ago

A new telecommunications system is being installed by Illinois Bell at Lutheran Hospital, Moline. Called Centrex III, this system will serve some 450 telephones.

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