Day in history for January 24, 2004

1854 -- 150 years ago

The track is laid on the Chicago and Rock Island Railroad nearly to Rock River. A want of engines to haul iron has slightly impeded the progress of the work.

1879 -- 125 years ago

The brick work on the Rodman Rifles Armory and city hall will be completed in two weeks if the weather continues good.

1904 -- 100 years ago

Prof. Frederick Starr, of Chicago University, and well known in the Tri-Cities, has been sent on an errand of an unusual nature to the northern-most island of the Japanese group. He will secure some of the Ainus, or ''hairy people,'' for exhibition purposes at the St. Louis World's Fair.

1929 -- 75 years ago

Judge George D. Long has increased the fines he assesses in county court against persons found guilty of selling liquor. Three defendents this week have been fined $800 each.

1954 -- 50 years ago

''One hundred years have rolled by since the first wagon was built on the site of our present Wagon Works Plant No. 1,'' said A.S. Gale, plant manager, at the John Deere Wagon Works annual service recognition dinner in the LeClaire Hotel. Gale briefly reviewed the history of the plant, then presented pins and awards. Rock Island Mayor Carl F. Bauer rolled up 49 years of service before retiring last Dec. 1.

1979 -- 25 years ago

January, 1979, now has the dubious distinction of being the snowiest month ever in the Quad-Cities. And, unless some unseasonably warm weather comes in the next week, January 1979 also will be the coldest on record.

Back: Available days in January 2004