From our Files: Headlines from 100 years of local news

Compiled by Karen Donato
Special to the Pioneer Times
100 Years Ago-May 17, 1911
Aroostook Times
    Local — Several automobile parties were in town Sunday. One large touring car from Easton attracted much attention, also one from Woodstock. The roads are in remarkably good condition for this time of year. A recent trip to Mars Hill took only one and one-half hours, which shows pretty good time at this season of the year.
    Remembering — Nine years ago today was the date of Houlton’s big conflagration, when 25 business places and 75 dwelling houses were burned. With the exception of one lot, every location has been rebuilt, and, but for the absence of trees, the town is much more attractive.
    A park — There is movement in fact to purchase18 acres of land in the rear of Burleigh’s grove on Pleasant Street for the purpose of a trotting park.
75 Years Ago-May 14, 1936
Houlton Pioneer Times
    Fishing — Game Warden Trueman Miller reported a record day’s fishing at Cary Lake Sunday when 22 fisherman caught 114 rainbow trout during the day. The largest catch was made by Vaughn Currie of Houlton who landed 16; Merle Lowrey of Monticello got the biggest one, a burly four-pounder.
    Invited — The members of the Houlton Fire Department will attend the morning service at the Congregational Church next Sunday, having been invited by the pastor, Rev. W.G. Kirschbaum. Leading the contingent will be Chief William Dobbins.
    Grocery prices — 20 oz. can mixed vegetables, 5 cents; bananas-four pounds, 25 cents; oranges, 35 cents per dozen; bread, 8 cents a loaf; and ivory soap, four cakes, 19 cents.
50 Years Ago- May 18, 1961
Houlton Pioneer Times
    Ice out — Nickerson Lake ice went out at 10:24 a.m., May 14.
    Monticello — Mrs. Lorraine Palmer will entertain the Mistletoe Club at her home for the June meeting.
Contributed photo
CHAMPS — Representing Houlton High School and capturing the 1948 Aroostook County football championship were from left in front, Dave Smith, Dick Hawkins, Ralph Tozier, Charles Johnston, Boogie Cumming, Eber Currier, Ben Wilcox and Bud Hutchinson. Second row, Rick Shean, Jim Tracy, Dick Tozier, Jim Holden, Jack Faulkner, Fred Manuel and Richard Jackins. Back row, Assistant Coach Gene Hunter, Red Wilson, Jack Daniels, Bucky Emery, Ray Hardy, Melvin Totman, Jim Brough and Coach Bill Terry.
    Hammond — Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Carpenter and Michael were Sunday guests of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Falcome and family in Presque Isle.
    Scholarships — Judy Oliver and Eugene Lovely of Houlton are two of 16 Maine teachers elected to receive scholarships for a summer session of health curriculum department workshops at the University of Maine.
    Trucking business — Cole’s Express of Bangor, announced the purchase acquisition of the W.J. Foley trucking firm of Houlton on a temporary control and management approval by the Interstate Commerce Commission.
25 Years Ago-May 14, 1986
Houlton Pioneer Times
    Ambulance service — Ed Ellis, a veteran member off the Houlton Ambulance Service will serve as acting director with the retirement of Clyde Hiltz.
    Monticello — Grade 5 attended the Shrine Circus in Presque Isle on Friday. Making the trip were Eron Ellis, Kristie Wilde, Raquel Brown, Heather Barnes, Hollie Joslyn, Jayson Brewer, Greg Mills, Kris Cramer, Skipper Folsom and Basil Brewer.
    Queen and her court — Class of 1986 candidate, Anita Bailey was selected Houlton High School Circus Queen. The royalty group included, Lisa Callnan, Circus Queen 1984; Samantha Tomah, sophomore candidate; Peggy McGillicuddy, freshman class; and Carrie Levasseur of the junior class.