Yesterdays News

In the Sentinel 100, 75, 50 and 25 years ago.

May 7, 1912: The figures of Port Warden Davies of Seattle covering the first three months of 1912 are particularly interesting as it relates to the new development in Alaska. For this period the import and exports show an increase to the valuation of $654,016 over the same period last year and this does not include copper ores shipped to Tacoma. Figuring the same ratio for the entire year, the increase in trade in Alaska during 1912 will total over two million and with copper will equal several million additional.

May 7, 1937: Sponsored by the American Legion post of Wrangell, the Wrangell Athletic Club was formed this week with Chester Lloyd as chairman and Jimmy Lovett and Roy Donal as assistants. The purpose of the Athletic Club will be to provide an outlet for the youths and business men of the town for use of their leisure time. Already the Redmen, the Elks, and the School Board have pledged their support along with many of the business men of the town. The proposed plan is to raise funds by means of dances to buy athletic equipment to be installed in the high school gym. At the present time Freddy Mack, formerly in the boxing game on the Pacific Coast, will act as volunteer instructor and director of the work. It is planned to have the gym open at least two nights a week, free to the public. It is believed that offering this opportunity for the boys and young men of the town to build up their physical strength and take care of their health and moral character will more than benefit the community for the monies expended for the project.

May 11, 1962: City Council at its meeting Tuesday night accepted a resolution providing for request to the Federal Power Commission for a preliminary permit on Virginia Lake for the establishment of a hydro-electric plant. The project is being planned under the Area Redevelopment program and the Community Facilities Administration with North Pacific Consultants of Portland preparing the initial plan. Request will be made of the Housing and Home Financing Administration for preliminary funds, estimated at $60,000. The project is estimated to cost in the neighborhood of $1,200,000.

May 7, 1987: More than 150 examples of Wrangell creativity were on display at the seventh annual Lions Club Community Fair last weekend. Wrangellites of all ages entered their favorite jam, dress, painting, craft, or afghan for judging. Displays by the Coast Guard Auxiliary and local Scouts were also featured. Lions Club President Jim Nelson said his group was already making plans for next year's fair. One change being considered is having the fair in the fall, when more canned goods are available and when the event wouldn't conflict with the halibut opening. The Lions also hope to stir up more interest in the Horseshoe Tournament, which failed to materialize when no one entered in the contest. Barbara Crabtree was named the 1987 fair's only grand champion for her crocheted wall hanging depicting a boar hunt. Prizes were awarded in nine categories ranging from photography to plants.