Good old days

125 years ago

The Commoner

Feb. 14, 1890

With the near approach to spring the subject of continuing the work of exterminating the ground squirrels which do so much damage to many crops in Whitman County will come up for discussion. We would like to see the Farmers’ Alliance take this matter in hand and decide upon what steps would be best to pursue. Let us hear from farmers on the subject.

Ellen Chandler appeared in the superior court on Monday, renounced her allegiance to the queen of England and was duly admitted as a citizen of the United States.

100 years ago

The Colfax Commoner

Feb. 12, 1915

A young Oakesdale boy who was committed to the reformatory a week ago, was returned to the sheriff by the superintendent of the institution who claims that the boy is too old for admission. The boy will be remembered as a member of the trio who became intoxicated while on their way to a dance and who had taken a horse and cutter for use on the trip without the consent of the owner.

75 years ago

Colfax Gazette Commoner

Feb. 16, 1940

The Steptoe High School Warriors will present the same fighting aggregation at this year’s tournament. They have seven victories and no defeats in their division. Their team is large and rugged and will give their opponents plenty of trouble. Albion will represent the southern division with four wins and one loss. Albion’s team is young including two sets of twins who are freshmen but they will be no push-over for any of the tournament teams.

Martha Washington boasts a small fighting quintet of Bullpups and cannot be counted out of their game with the Lacrosse grade school for the grade title.

50 years ago

Colfax Gazette

Feb. 18, 1965

Parents who visit Colfax elementary school tonight for the Parents’ Night program are also encouraged to view 574 bright new library books on display representing the best new titles from 55 leading publishers, Principal L.M. Jennings said. The exhibit will be in the school library until Friday of this week. The Parents’ Night will feature presentation of materials, information or demonstrations, pertaining to each particular grade.

Plans for a new $75,000 church home were adopted by the board of trustees of the Garfield Christian Church at a meeting this week.

25 years ago

Colfax Gazette

Feb. 15, 1990

The Alexander barn on the Hume Road was also a victim of the wind storm that started the decade. The barn dates back more than 100 years. Charles Alexander, who lived in the adjoining house, often told family members how he took refuge in the barn as an eight-year-old boy when his family was moving stock in the winter time. The barn was built on what was originally known as the Whitman ranch.

10 years ago

Whitman County Gazette

Feb. 17, 2005

Last weekend’s variety show at the Palouse Grange Hall displayed a variety of area talent ranging from gymnastics to an impersonation of Elvis. The show raised about $1,300. Proceeds will go to scholarships for seniors at Colfax and Garfield-Palouse schools.