Day in history for December 14, 2004

1854 -- 150 years ago

A company of men from Boston will bring machinery with which to saw and store ice from the rivers, so that Rock Island next summer will not be caught short of ice, as it was in 1854. The company has leased an ice house here and will supply the town and steamboats next season.

1879 -- 125 years ago

Three bicycles arrived on the express train today. One is for Ben T. Cable, one for Charles W. O'Neill and the third for another young sportsman, Forey Heath.

1904 -- 100 years ago

Jonas Bear, Rock Island clothing merchant, has been appointed on the grand lodge committee of Rock Island Odd Fellows.

1929 -- 75 years ago

Kathleen A. Neary, 6, reigned as Little Queen and Marilyn Post, 6, as Spirit of Love today. Chosen in an Argus contest, the girls rode with Santa Claus and his reindeer in the Rock Island Christmas parade.

1954 -- 50 years ago

A Rock Island resident has received one of the highest achievement awards which Braniff Airways makes to its employees. Harold Lindgren has been named the star salesman of the month. Lindgren and his wife will receive a vacation trip to Cuba.

1979 -- 25 years ago

State officials say the Rock Island School District can best cope with declining enrollments by closing five schools. That option is one of four outlined in an Illinois State Board of Education study unveiled at the district's board meeting Tuesday.

Back: Available days in December 2004