Day in history for July 7, 2003

1853 -- 150 years ago

Rock Island has several hotels, always over-filled. Everyday visitors are obliged to seek accommodations in private homes. What shall we do when the railroad cars run here? Two or three first-class hotels are wanted in Rock Island immediately.

1878 -- 125 years ago

Rock Island's income last month was as follows: Poll tax, $103; Rock River bridge tolls, $545; city scales and other public weighing, $42.10; fines, $76.02.

1903 -- 100 years ago

George McNeal, who has retired to live in Hampton, is the oldest native of this county. He was born at Hampton 70 years ago, in 1833. Five generations of McNeals already have lived in the Watertown vicinity.

1928 -- 75 years ago

The Rev. Vincent J. Nordgren was called to become pastor of St. John's Lutheran Church.

1953 -- 50 years ago

Miss Margaret S. Petersen, Rock Island, is one of the four women hydraulic engineers in the world. Miss Petersen is working with the Missouri River Division, U.S. Engineers.

1978 -- 25 years ago

Moline Ald. Paul Stewart, R-2nd Ward, says two weeks without ``the inspiration of The Almighty'' is too long. Stewart put Mayor Lawrence Lorensen on the spot when he demanded to know why the council hadn't opened up the last two council meetings with a prayer. Lorensen informed Stewart that so many ministers are on vacation at this time of year that none could be contacted to open the meeting with a prayer.

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