Day in history for August 5, 2004

1854 -- 150 years ago

Stonework for the first bridge across the Mississippi has been completed from this city to the island. Grading on the island is going ahead rapidly.

1879 -- 125 years ago

The Milan Paper Company will begin full-time operations August 17.

1904 -- 100 years ago

Company A of Rock Island held a circus at Camp Lincoln. Ralph Souders and Abe Kalhke won races. Capt. Dunavin and Pvt. Oberg engaged in an interesting boxing match. Lt. Koch made a hit as a tightrope walker.

1929 -- 75 years ago

William Shepherd, 32, and Paul Strawn, 35, were killed as they stunted before 10,000 people at the dedication of a Burlington airport. The men had borrowed the plane they were using in Moline.

1954 -- 50 years ago

State fire investigators and department of welfare officials were expected to inspect a fire-damaged ward of the East Moline State Hospital today. The roof of the 2-story fire-resistant structure was destroyed Wednesday night in a spectacular blaze that occupied firemen of four cities for more than four hours.

1979 -- 25 years ago

Willie ''Say Hey'' Mays from Westfield, Ala., who for 22 seasons personified imperishable youth and the joy of playing baseball, will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame this afternoon with Hack Wilson and former Moliner Warren Giles, president of the National League for 18 years.

Back: Available days in August 2004