Day in history for October 7, 2005

1855 -- 150 years ago

Some person ignited a small quantity of powder which was in one of the barracks at Fort Armstrong, setting fire to and entirely consuming the barracks, seven in number, and one of the block forts. About 100 men with buckets tried unsuccessfully to quench the blaze, after being conveyed to the island by Capt. Robinson's ferry boat.

1880 -- 125 years ago

George Steel was elected secretary of the Rock Island Building Assn. in place of C.R. Chamberlain.

1905 -- 100 years ago

Judge William G. Gest resigned as judge of the appellate court. Judge F.D. Ramsey of Morrison succeeded him.

1930 -- 75 years ago

A girls debate team from Augustana College was awarded the championship of the Illinois Debate League for 1930.

1955 -- 50 years ago

Building fires in Rock Island during the past year were reduced almost 50 percent, from 103 to 58. Fire Chief Charles J. Wahlheim credits the reduction in large part to greater awareness through fire prevention and inspection efforts.

1980 -- 25 years ago

The Tom Kallman family, 2009 4th St., Moline, has a brand new member, but they're not sure if they're happy about it. A friendly raccoon has taken up residence in 13-year-old Tommy Kallman's treehouse.

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