102 Years Ago – April 1, 1915
Big step forward — The new hook and ladder truck, provision for which was made at the last meeting of the Village Fire Corporation and which had been ordered by Chief Pipes, was expected to be delivered soon. The new truck put Presque Isle well on equality, as fire-fighting equipment was concerned, with city fire departments.
Good season — George W. Johnson did not find the season so bad. From 40 acres, he raised something over 4,700 barrels of potatoes, and sold over $3,000 worth on the early market at $1 a barrel. He had produce aside from potatoes that net him over $1,000.
75 Years Ago – March 26, 1942
Stephenson elected head of Democratic City Committee — Harry Stephenson was elected chairman of the Democratic City Committee a the annual spring caucus. Mrs. Lillian Lynch was named secretary and treasurer.
Lacomb dethroned champ Carter — A bowling match was held March 20 at the 20th Century Bowling Alleys between Harvey Carter, the Champ, and Louis J. Lacomb, popular flying chauffeur and man about town. Carter won the first string by seven points owing to a little nervousness on the part of Louie and due to lack of practice, but after the first string, the challenger showed his real class and came down the stretch with a burst of speed that had his opponent hanging on the ropes and crying for help. Much money changed hands as the betting was two to one in favor of the Champ.
50 Years Ago – March 29, 1967
Brown to head Merchants — Burtt Brown, owner of Wilkins Clothing Store on Main Street, was named chairman of the Chamber of Commerce Retail Merchants Bureau in a meeting at the Northeastland Hotel. The bureau had considered changing its name to the Retail Promotion Committee to emphasize its primary purpose of sales stimulation through advertising and promotion.
25 Years Ago – March 25, 1992
Truck driver recognized — Forrest Beckwith of Presque Isle was recently honored by United Van Lines as an operator of the month. Beckwith, who drove in the continental fleet’s eastern region for the P.E. Burke Moving and Storage Company of Waltham, Mass., received recognition in the household goods area. The honor acknowledges excellent performance in the areas of operational proficiency, cargo claims prevention, safety and customer service.
Drag racing competition raised $3,000 for charity — The Presque Isle Lions Club and the Crown of Maine Snowmobile Racing Association held the state Drag Racing Championships on ice on Herschel Smith’s pond in Westfield. At the awards ceremony following the two day racing events, about $8,000 in cash prizes was distributed to over 70 racers. As a result of the races, about $3,000 was raised for vision and hearing impaired.
