Day in history for May 17, 2004

1854 -- 150 years ago

John Butler of Rock Island and his partner, Mr. Crooke from Prophetstown, left this week with a drove of 325 young cattle for California. They had a considerable number of ox teams to haul baggage. We wish them a pleasant journey across the plains.

1879 -- 125 years ago

Although the county board has a Republican majority, the supervisors have re-elected James Taylor, a Democrat, as chairman.

1904 -- 100 years ago

John Looney, self-styled political leader, was beaten at every turn by vote of delegates as he tried to run the Rock Island County Democratic convention.

1929 -- 75 years ago

King Edwards of Rock Island High School won second place in the 120-yard high hurdles race in the Illinois track and field meet.

1954 -- 50 years ago

Weighing in at a total of 16 pounds and 10 ounces, twins born Monday night to Mr. and Mrs. William J. Polka, 3925 31st Ave., Rock Island, are the largest ever to be delivered in St. Anthony's Hospital. Kevin Allen weighed 8 pounds and 8 ounces and Mary Ann weighed 8 pounds and 2 ounces.

1979 -- 25 years ago

Moline Fire Inspector Lt. Blaine Johnson said he and a state police officer removed an old and potentially dangerous bottle of picric acid from Moline Public Hospital. The acid, available in liquid and powder form, is stable until it gets old and begins to turn yellow and crystallize. When it starts to crystallize, then it becomes explosive.

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