Looking Back – October 2018
One hundred thirty years ago, in 1888, the then-Stockbridge Sun editor W.B. Gildart reported on visitors to the community and surrounding areas, a slow recovery from illness by Charles Low, and the death of Mr. Chappell from Williamston at a pole-raising. The Detroit Journal, it was announced, was offering a $1,000 prize in gold for the person who could name the four coldest days in the coming Dec. 1 to March 1 period.
Twenty years later, in 1908, political activity was heating up by October on the local, state and national scene with our local paper reporting on the upcoming election. A number of slates were provided by early October. The Stockbridge football team played Howell on Oct. 10. On the same week, Mrs. J. K. Stanley advertised hats with ostrich plumes and fancy feathers. W. Dancer Co. advertised coats and skirts for ladies and children. Other ads included Winchester (guns), Sayles (candy), Glasgow Brothers and many more. On a wider front, Henry Ford introduced his Model T on Oct. 1.
Eighty years ago, in 1938, the local weekly still carried local, state, national and international news. A faculty group held its first get-together for teachers, featuring presentations, dinner and games. The PTA began an ambitious year of meetings and activities as well.
Henry Ford introduced the Model T on October 1, 1908
The paper carried comics and serialized books in addition to the ads and news copy. Munith Methodist Church held a meeting. Gregory School and community had a program at the town hall. Stockbridge schools had a two-day recess to mark the M.E.A. (Michigan Education Association) conference being held in Lansing.
James G. Mason, of Lima, Ohio, married Marion Dancer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J.H.Dancer.
Stockbridge High School set the date for a big Amateur Show on Oct. 13 and 14. The Community Club planned a Halloween party. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lillywhite cerebrated their golden anniversary.
Twenty years ago, in 1998, the Stockbridge Area Arts Council (SAAC) sponsored an Oct. 10 performance by pianist Bob Milne at Stockbridge Township Hall. Unadilla Township made plans to discuss millage proposals. Pipeline construction on Michigan 106 led to temporary closure plans for the road. Julie Zick was named homecoming queen. Waterloo Farm prepared for Pioneer Days. Outreach prepared for a food drive on Make A Difference Day. The Millville United Methodist Church held a turkey dinner, including a bake sale and a white elephant sale. Later that month, the death of community leader Ron Filllmore was announced. He died Oct. 13.
Diane Rockall is a member of the Stockbridge Community News Board of directors, serving in several capacities.
