125 YEARS AGO – 1883

The dwelling of a German native named Siberland on the Lazaretto Road near the Quarantine Station, Tinicum, took fire at the cone of the roof adjoining the chimney. While some men fought the flames, others were engaged in carrying out the furniture that was dumped about the premises in the wildest fashion. The fire was finally extinguished and Siberland moved back in to the house.A passenger platform has been built on the north side of the track fronting the Swarthmore Train Station for the convenience of the patrons of the railroad at that place. This improvement is particularly gratifying to those living north of the railroad.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

The Old Gold Co. at 35 W. Fourth St., Chester, opposite the Stanley Theater, pays $20.67 per ounce of for 24-karat goldSamuel I. Neely and his wife, Clara, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at their home in Darby Township with a dinner and reception for family and friends.J. Elwood Miller of Collingdale is assisting John T. Hipple with directing the Parkside Cornet and Bugle Corps.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Pfc. Russell E. Cahall Jr., 20, whose father lives at 815 Aston Mills Road, Aston, and S4C Barry P. Maxwell, 24, son of Archie H. Maxwell, 132 Morris Ave., Woodlyn, returned to their assignment in Hachst, Germany, after a two-month assignment in Lebanon with Task Force 201.Mary Beth Carney, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alvin R. Carney, Middletown Road, Middletown, was a special attendant to the homecoming queen at the University of Delaware. Kermit Stover, the new Marple Newtown School District superintendent, said he plans to have foreign languages taught in the elementary grades.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

The Auxiliary of the Middletown Fire Co. has compiled a “Butter and Love” cookbook that contains more than 200 recipes that were contributed by local residents. They can be purchased from any auxiliary member.Tinicum police are investigating a burglary at Don’s Bar on Jansen Avenue, Essington. Beer and liquor were removed from the establishment.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Citing problems in the aftermath of his parents’ deaths, Lansdowne Councilman Gregg Dargain has resigned his council seat to settle the estate, health problems and other family concerns.

--- LEN CASTERLINE

To contact Len Casterline,

e-mail lencas1038@verizon.net

or lencas1038@yahoo.com

or call (610) 565-4298