Day in history for July 20, 2003

1853 -- 150 years ago

In a letter to The Argus, Mrs. Tonguey described the embarrassment of ladies who shop and promenade on Illinois Street (2nd Avenue). Sidewalks and steps along the street are cluttered with groups of men loungers who comment on every passing lady's appearance, including the shape of her feet.

1878 -- 125 years ago

Two days ago Tommy Ward, 5, was lost in the woods at Coal Valley while out berry picking. The neighbors searched during the night. Then church bells were rung, and the whole village was organized and started in all directions, but thus far without success.

1903 -- 100 years ago

Reports are current that Capt. John Streckfus will not operate the City of Winona packet on the Rock Island-Clinton run next season.

1928 -- 75 years ago

A committee of citizens was named to oppose the transfer of the seventh grade of Longfellow School to Washington Junior High School.

1953 -- 50 years ago

The rush to purchase gas heating equipment has flooded Quad-Cities contractors with orders. With 3,500 gas heating permits allocated last spring, contractors also have, with this week's announcement of the release of more gas permits, another 7,000 potential customers.

1978 -- 25 years ago

Hundreds of Rock Island households and several businesses were without electricity for 41 minutes Friday afternoon when an Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Co. cable failed for unknown reasons.

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