In Retrospect
100 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1924
April 17:
Reminder of Olden Days – Francis Johnson has a piece of wood which has quite an interesting history and is highly prized as a relic of the days when presidential campaigns were carried on in a more strenuous way than they are today. The wood was taken form what remains of a 110-foot campaign pole planted near the square at Summersville which had as its sequel the first election of General U. S. Grant to the presidency. The pole, a towering black ash, was hauled by Mr. Johnson, then a lad of 14 years. J. B. Foraker, then a young man, but noted already for his power of oratory, was one of the speakers at Summersville. Recently it was desired to set a post on the spot where the black ash pole had risen. The stump of the old pole was found about six feet beneath he surface, and fairly well preserved, after reposing in earth for 56 years. In those days Summersville was an important trading center. The roads were not improved and residents of the community did not travel to the larger towns for their supplies as they do today. The postoffice at Summersville was called Bokes Creek. Rural routes have resulted in the abandonment of this, together with number other small offices. Fifty-six years ago Summersville had three general stores, 2 blacksmith shops, a wagon shop and two doctors.
. . .
Robert S. Adams, of Richwood, junior in education at Ohio State university, has been chosen editor of the Candle, monthly literary publication. He is to fill the vacancy created when Dorothy E. Reid, of Galion, former editor, withdrew from school. C. Mortimer, Mulholland, No. 8 Fourteenth Avenue, Columbus, was chosen associate editor.
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The oldest horse in the county died last week. It was owned by Wesley Baker near Agosta, and was thirty-nine years old. – LaRue News.
75 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1949
April 21:
The regular meeting of the Delaware – Union County Real Estate Board was held in Richwood, Tuesday evening, April 12th, at Robbie’s Restaurant. It was well attended and future plans of the organization were discussed at length. Robert Allen, Richwood attorney, was guest speaker and gave a very informative address on the legal rights of both buyer and seller of real estate. The next meeting of the Board will be held in Delaware.
. . .
The Council of Catholic Women of St. Joseph’s Parish, LaRue, met last Wednesday evening at the home of Mrs. John Hartman in Richwood for their monthly meeting and discussion session. Special plans and preparations were made for the meeting of all the Councils of Catholic Women of this area, the Deanery meeting to be held in Ada. Father Edward Healey, pastor of St. Joseph’s led the discussion on the New Testament and Christian Doctrine.
50 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1974
April 18:
Brad Farrington, a farmer-turned-harness driver who was born and raised near Richwood in Union County, achieved his goal of 1,000 career victories in 1973. Only 106 drivers in the 175-year history of the sport have accomplished this feat, according to the U. S. Trotting Association, which keeps track of such things. (photos accompany full article)
. . .
Hundreds and hundreds of appleblossoms placed on decorative trees and strewn throughout the North Union cafeteria enhanced the scene of the annual Diapers to Degrees Style Show. Guests seated at individual table groupings, were entertained as local models appeared in thrity0six different outfits for their approval. Models were: Shelly Carrel, Harold Green, Donna Kreamer, Deb Maxwell, Kim Markin, Phyllis Mead, David Oman, Ruthie Robinson, Janet Sieg and Doreen Wilson. Fashion Commentary was by Judith Elliott. Door prizes were donated by Cosmos Plastics, MarbleCast, Web Plastics, Richwood Banking, Richwood Gazette, an anonymous friend, the sponsoring CCL Club, Richwood Flowers & Gifts, Wise’s IGA, Ark’s Cardinal Foods and Griffith Carpet Shoppe. All proceeds from the event were presented to the Emergency Squad and the Community Swimming Pool.
25 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1999
April 21:
The Annual Seventh Congressional District Art Contest sponsored by Congressman Dave Hobson, was recently staged. Two North Union students were and the opportunity to advance in competition. Finishing first was Craig Ridgway, NU senior. Runner-up honors went to local sophomore Chris Cummings. Third place honors went to Marysville high school senior Kristin Lantz. The top three works in Union County will now compete in Springfield against the other counties in the District. The winner will received a $1,000 prize and a trip to Washington D. C. in June to see his / her work on display for the next year in the Cannon Tunnel between the Longworth Office Building and the Nation’s Capital. (photo accompanies)
. . .
Mark Wade, America’s premier hammered dulcimer soloist and clinician, will be guest artist for a benefit program at the First Presbyterian Church in Marysville. The concert, sponsored by the Marysville Art League, will benefit the league’s new pottery bar at The Houston House. Wade, a native and resident of Marysville, is a senior at Ohio Wesleyan University, majoring in music education with emphasis on trumpet and piano.
At age 21, he has a successful recording and performance career on Hammered Dulcimer. He produced his first recording at age 18, Foggy Mountain Favorites and his second Just As I Am last year. He is currently working on two recording to be released in 1999. Appearing with Wade at the benefit will be Mark Kreis, Sid Omnstn, Beckie Boger, Heather Rentz, Linda Daetyl, Joanne Hopper and his father, Roger Wade.
