Monday, October 5, 2015

Echoes of the Past, Decorah, Iowa-- Part 1: 1935: The Unknown Intruder

From the January 22, 2015, Decoarh (Iowa) Joutnal "Chamber membership gala will cost 50 cents" by Roz Weis.

News from 1935, 80 years ago:

The annual Decorah Chamber of Commerce membership drive commences here Jan. 21, 1935.  Banquet tickets for the annual gala are 50 cents each.

The Jackson Junction Savings Bank is being liquidated.  The bank has been operating under the restrictions of Senate File 111 for nearly two years.  (This was during the Great Depression.)

Five steers marketed in Decorah last Saturday by Albert Andera of Spillville were sold for a grand total of $450, and average of $90 per head!

Those on relief rolls here are prohibited in the use of cars in Winneshiek County.  It has been found that in one case, a car is absolutely necessary for the family.  But when it comes to 74 other cases, they will be prohibited from using cars.  (Again, the Depression)

Big commotion reported at the Baker Lumber Yard!  Mrs. Olga Symonds, bookkeeper at the G.E. Baker & Sons lumberyard heard a noise in the private office of the firm last Monday afternoon.  She informed Mr. Baker, who was in the front office.

Mr. Baker, backed up by his son George, Pierce Anderson and other employees, cautiously entered the private office.  They found a huge rat behind a desk cabinet.  All of the gentlemen made an effort to subdue the rodent, which finally bit the dust after a frantic battle, in which we understand Olga DID NOT participate.

--CootRat

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