Day in history for February 3, 2004

1854 -- 150 years ago

The all-absorbing question throughout the country is how to admit to the Union the Nebraska and Kansas territories. Sen. Stephen A. Douglas of Illinois has proposed in his Nebraska bill to let the settlers vote whether the new state shall allow slavery.

1879 -- 125 years ago

Ethan Allen of Preemption, an old settler, called at The Argus office today.

1904 -- 100 years ago

Rock Island Mayor William McConochie told the council the customary bitter exchanges of personalities at meetings must come to an end.

1929 -- 75 years ago

Rock Island Methodist and Presbyterian pastors said they favor the proposal for a merger of the two denominations.

1954 -- 50 years ago

Both blind since 1930, Jerry Mansfield, 89, and Charles M. Hargis, 76, both of Rock Island and both retired engineers of the Rock Island Lines brought to a close an association of over 24 years. Every day Mr. Hargis has walked to the home of Jerry Mansfield and the two men have talked. Mr. Hargis left to make his home with his son in Blue Island, Ill.

1979 -- 25 years ago

Operators of a Rock Island group home for wayward boys, in debt $22,000 because the city has denied it needed zoning, will make a ''last ditch'' plea to city councilmen Monday. At stake for Home Away From Home, Inc., is a $50,000 house at 4400 7th Ave.; $24,000 in lost revenue from five months delay in opening; and the future of some delinquent teenage boys.

Back: Available days in February 2004