Day in history for August 31, 2003

1853 -- 150 years ago

The movement to start a teachers' institute in Rock Island is a good one. Anyone familiar with the state of our schools recognizes the dire need for training teachers.

1878 -- 125 years ago

Although 63, Samuel Allen of Coe is spry and worked 26 days in the harvest field this summer. Twice married, Mr. Allen is the father of 21 children.

1903 -- 100 years ago

Paine's ``Ancient Rome'' show, presented under auspices of Rock Island merchants last week at the Twelfth Street Park, resulted in financial loss to the sponsors. Weather conditions were responsible for poor attendance.

1928 -- 75 years ago

Friends of the 9-foot channel proposal are very much disappointed over the findings of Major C.L. Hall, chief of the Rock Island District of United States Army Engineers, that the amount of traffic on the Mississippi does not justify a deeper channel. His decision will be appealed.

1953 -- 50 years ago

A 15-year-old Rock Island girl, ``stabbed'' by a 9-inch weed, was released Friday evening from St. Anthony's Hospital after the weed was removed. Wanita Hultgren, 3025 10th Ave., was injured in a vacant lot near her home.

1978 -- 25 years ago

A record 940-pound tuna gave Moline fisherman Jack Harris a giant haul in the Cape Cod Tuna Club's annual Massachusetts Tournament earlier this month. The 940-pound bluefin bested the previous tournament record by 35 pounds.

Back: Available days in August 2003