Day in history for June 12, 2004

1854 -- 150 years ago

The thousand ladies and gentlemen who left last Monday on a steamboat for St. Paul returned to Rock Island today. On the excursion they were heartily welcomed at Galena, Dubuque and St. Paul. All return with the greatest confidence in the boundless resources of the great west.

1879 -- 125 years ago

The Rodman Rifles new armory, which also has quarters for the city hall, was decided last evening. After a 2-hour military parade and drill, a program was held in the drill hall. Capt. Hawes was presented with a magnificent sword, belt and gauntlets as a surprise part of the ceremonies.

1904 -- 100 years ago

The Cornerstone of Prince Hall, home for widows and orphans of members of the Masonic fraternity, was laid today. The home is in south Rock Island.

1929 -- 75 years ago

The cornerstone of the Rock Island Public Schools stadium was laid today. Bert Durkee, president of the senior class, gave one of the talks at the ceremony.

1954 -- 50 years ago

A traveler with incredible tales of his life will make Davenport his home for the next few weeks. He's Ralph A. Miller, 59, a former movie stunt man and now an expert card trick demonstrator.

1979 -- 25 years ago

A small pig led officials on a wild chase in East Moline before it was caught. Theodore Jackson, an East Moline attorney, told police the pig was tied up in his yard at 235 19th Ave. when it broke loose.

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