Other Times --- Oct. 31

110 YEARS AGO – 1898

The cornerstone of the Crozer Home for Incurables in Upland was laid with a plain ceremony. As no publicity was given to the proceedings, only a few people were present, including Mrs. Mary Crozer, Samuel A. Crozer, R.H. Crozer and John P. Crozer. That this splendid institution with its wide charity is being built is due to the womanly instincts and love for humanity that beats in Mrs. Mary Crozer’s heart. Her husband, J. Lewis Crozer, set aside the large endowment for the hospital.Chester Police Officer Robert Syfrit has again resumed duties as a police officer. He resigned but the Mayor did not care to accept his resignation and said he did not want to break in another new man.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

The Ladies Auxiliary to the Chester Boys Club will honor 125 club members at a Halloween Party tonight. Mrs. Townsend Cox of Moylan is in charge of arrangements.The BVM Sodality and the Mothers Club of St. Gabriel’s School in Norwood is sponsoring a Halloween party tonight at the school.Chester Radio Club nominated officers including Carmen DePrisco, Robert Stevens, Harvey Hall, Ellis Bullock and Harry Stiner.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

A crowd estimated at 25,000 persons jammed the downtown of Chester and scrambled for 5,000 gifts from the sky. A helicopter dropped 5,000 ping pong balls from the sky into the business area. Each contained a gift certificate from a Chester merchant. The drop was presented in connection with William Penn sales days that are three days of sales by Chester merchants. “I don’t remember anything like this before,’’ said Sgt. Joseph M. Bail, who was in charge of police. “I don’t remember so many people.” Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Mariano of 425 E. 9th St., Chester, were guests of honor at a surprise party given by their children in celebration of their 25th wedding anniversary at the home of the son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Carr, 2603 Academy Ave., Holmes. Seat covers for your car are $14.95 and up at Royalty on MacDade Boulevard, Collingdale.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

The Aston Lions Club is having its “Pancake for Sight Breakfast” at the Lenni Heights Fire Co on Lenni Road. Tickets are available at the door.A woman was ordered to serve 180 days in jail for shoplifting at the Sears store in Millbourne.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Wallingford Swarthmore School Board has named Julio Feldman as principal of Nether Providence Elementary School. He succeeds Louis Tancredi.

---- LEN CASTERLINE

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Other Times --- Oct. 30

125 YEARS AGO — 1883

Officer Macully has opened a cigar store at 412-14 W. Second St., Chester. The efficient police officer will also keep on hand oysters in every style: Raw, fried, stewed, panned, etc.Some mischievous persons carried the brilliant display from the front of William Davis’ cigar store on Edgmont Avenue in Chester and placed it on top of the pump in front of Taylor’s Hotel, a square away.

75 YEARS AGO — 1933

Miss Helen A. Taylor, daughter of Mrs. A.D. Cassidy of Saville Avenue, Eddystone, whose engagement to Donald H. Dryden of Chester has been announced, was guest of honor at a Halloween party given by Mrs. Herbert Hatton on Saville Avenue, Eddystone.Blooms from the garden of Mrs. M.B. Saul, of Rose Valley, took first prize, a second prize and a certificate of merit at the Hard Chrysanthemum Show in Philadelphia.

50 YEARS AGO — 1958

Fireman Robert D. Gronski, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Gronski of 18 Robin Hood Lane, Village Green, is serving aboard the attack transport USS Cambria in the Mediterranean Sea.Mrs. Betty Cochrane of 627 Prospect Ave., Prospect Park, was selected Mrs. Typical Food Fair Shopper. She received honors from James O’Donnell manager of the Food Fair store at Seventh and Sproul streets, Chester.Three Boy Scouts received the Eagle Scout Award to become the first trio in Glenolden’s history to receive this highest rank in a single ceremony. The Eagle Scout award went to Kenneth Brown, 16; Irwin Higgins, 14, and Richard Markley, 15. They are members of Boy Scout Troop 45, led by Scoutmaster Joseph Hoag.

25 YEARS AGO — 1983

Rev. Anthony Mattes of Aston asked the Penn-Delco School Board to either give or sell the Green Ridge School to United Cerebral Palsy of the county.

10 YEARS AGO — 1998

Burlington Coat Factory Warehouse at Baltimore Pike and Oak Avenue, Clifton Heights, lives up to its name with 10,000 pieces of outerwear in stock. Store Manager Nolan Walters credits the employees for the store’s popularity.

— LEN CASTERLINE

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Other Times --- Oct. 29

125 YEARS AGO – 1903

Several intoxicated men had a rough and tumble fight on Third Street, Chester, near the bridge. One individual received very serious head injuries.John Dalton, a promising young man of Upland, has been appointed assistant clerk to Mr. Weston in the office of the Crozer Iron Works.Professor Webster opened his dancing academy in Beale Hall, Chester, with an attendance of 15 pupils. Double that number is expected at the next dance meeting.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

The Well Baby Clinic at Marcus Hook Baptist Church was a success with 23 children who were vaccinated to prevent diphtheria.Thousands of postage stamps were on display when the Chester Stamp Club had its fourth annual stamp show at the YMCA, 7th and Edgmont, Chester. Members of the John Wesley Cross Post bugle corps of Norwood won $25 in a Halloween parade at the county seat.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Roberta Anderson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Anderson of Norwood, was honored by her parents with a pajama party in honor of her 12th birthday anniversary.Aldan-Springfield Rotary Club has begun a program citing a boy from Springfield High School and one from Lansdowne-Aldan High School as “Boys of the Month.’’ The first boys honored are Lee Stetson of Springfield and Charles Oberdorf of Lansdowne-Aldan.James M. Brower, son of Mr. and Mrs. George H. Brower of 1722 Walnut St., Chester, has completed Marine Corps recruit training at Parris Island, S.C.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Senior citizens in Middletown have been invited to enjoy free movies in the township building. Upper Chichester is considering the formation of a Town Watch organization. Volunteers are urged to call the police department and leave their name if they wish to serve on Town Watch.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

The Southeast Delco School District School Board has agreed to quiz parents about school uniforms for children. The board has not acted on requiring them and they want to get some information from parents.

--- LEN CASTERLINE

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Other Times --- Oct. 28

Records of 100 years ago have been temporarily unavailable. In their place, 125-year-old records are being used.

125 YEARS AGO — 1883

The small boy is on the Chester streets again with the abominable tin-horn nuisance, deafening the ear and worrying the brains of quiet-loving citizens with its discordant sounds. This amusement may do very well for a fox chase or a romp in the rural districts, but when carried on in such a reckless manner to the utter disregard of the peace and quietness of the inhabitants, some action should be taken to stop it. When the boys can get their “toots” at a person’s door as they have done in the 9th Ward, they should become acquainted with the police.A preacher in South Chester has brought scandal upon the cause of his master by improper conduct with one of his church members. The frequency of his pastoral calls on one of his members, excited comment among his flock outside the church. The preacher left his charge without the formality of a resignation as a result of his actions.

75 YEARS AGO — 1933

Elved J. Shuppas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph A. Shuppas of 1333 Kerlin St., Chester, was elected manager of the Nevonian swimming team at Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster. His father is a building contractor.Scoutmaster R.C. Stanley of Ridley Township has passed the Red Cross special first-aid course and is now an instructor. He’s with the Holmes troop and all members are taking the junior first-aid course.

50 YEARS AGO — 1958

Gregory A. Harbaugh, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Harbaugh of Knowlton Road, Middletown, has been elected president of the freshman class at Albright College in Reading.Rudolph B. Saliga, son of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Saliga, 15, Pennsylvania Avenue, Garden City, and Leonard A. Kulis, son of Mrs. Sophie Kulis of 3110 W. Second St., Chester, both completed Marine Corps recruit training at Parris Island, S.C. Darby Township Junior Police Department has been formed to fight juvenile delinquency. Mrs. Marry K. Roberts of Walnut Street, Marcus Hook, celebrated her 82nd birthday anniversary.

25 YEARS AGO — 1983

Brookhaven Patrolman Rick Fuller conducted training in the use of a baton for members of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Department, Parkside, Aldan and Brookhaven police departments. Fuller is a certified baton instructor with the Monadunck baton that resembles a baton, but has an additional handle and has various uses for police to subdue or disarm a suspect.Motorists in the county have been warned not to mount studded tires until Nov. 1. Violators can be fined $55.Keystone Automobile Club AAA is giving away “Hot Dogs” that are reflective dots children wear on their Halloween costumes for visibility.

10 YEARS AGO — 1998

Free computer classes are being offered at William Penn Elementary School in Chester. Refreshments will be served. Programs will be taught in Word Perfect, Lotus and more.

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Other Times --- Oct. 27

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

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Other Times --- Oct. 24

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

Michael Callahan of 18 Flower St., Chester, is secretary of the Young Men’s Catholic Literary Institute and is celebrating a birthday anniversary.Harry Hyland of Marcus Hook is the former driver of the Quarantine bus in the borough.Major John H. Kerlin is the steward at the Delaware County Home and William Jones is a member of the board of the county’s Poor Directors.By order of Postmaster General Meyer, the post office at Upper Providence has been discontinued because of insufficient patronage. All of the residents in that vicinity are now receiving their mail from the rural carrier.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

Two inmates of Broadmeadows Farm escaped from the prison. Assistant Warden Michael S. Kearney said the men, dressed in denim uniforms, “simply walked off.’’ He said one of prisoners was from Middletown and the other was from New Jersey.Milton Lewis Dotts, who resides with his son, Horace Dotts, at “Sunny Ridge Farm’’ on Sandy Bank Road, Upper Providence, observed his 69th birthday anniversary with a party at his home.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Miss Mary Massa of 300 E. 21st St., Chester, was crowned “Miss Incoming Freshman’’ at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science. She is a graduate of Chester High.Pvt. Joseph A. Deeney, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Deeney, 134 Lamont Ave., Glenolden, and Pvt. Pete J. Bedsaul, son of Mrs. Rose M. Bedsaul, 727 Engle St., Chester, have completed Army basic combat training at Fort Benning, Ga.A 1948 Cadillac convertible with new tires and a new top is yours for $295. It’s being sold by Edgar Adams at Village Green Trailer Park in Aston.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Herbert V. Tarone of Boothwyn has been promoted to a vice president in First Pennsylvania Bank’s Regional Marketing Department. Aldan police are looking for a lone bandit who threatened a female clerk and a female customer with a switchblade at the 7-Eleven Store on Springfield Road. He removed an undetermined amount of money from the cash register.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Glenolden Fire Co. was honored by Mayor Ted Bathurst for its service. Robert Murray was honored as chairman of the fire department’s fire prevention committee for 10 years.
LEN CASTERLINE

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Other Times --- Oct. 23

100 YEARS AGO — 1908

Frank Stoever of Chester won the celery glass chanced off at the band fair at the National Hall in Chester.The management of the Chester Roller Rink on Edgmont Avenue, above Third Street, has decided to have a masked carnival at the rink. This makes it the fourth masquerade at the rink. One of the noticeable features of the other balls was the number of young ladies who appeared in fancy costumes with grotesque makeup. There is to be special music by the Triolo band. Rink officials said the best of order will be maintained and everyone is assured an evening of genuine enjoyment.

75 YEARS AGO — 1933

B. Frank Thomas, the grand old man at the county courthouse, celebrated his 89th birthday anniversary. Judge John M. Broomall reminded the veteran tipstaff at the No. 2 Courtroom that he had begun his duties a quarter century ago under the late Judge William B. Broomall.Edward B. Creighton, the naturalist who lives at “Graydieton” in Upper Providence admires the old shade trees on the lawn of Mrs. Maude H. Oakey of 323 W. State St., Media. The trees, including a bronze birch, were planted by the late Dr. Francis N. Baker.

50 YEARS AGO — 1958

Marie Wilkes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Holbaugh of 215 Eighth St., Upland, was guest at a bridal shower given by her bridesmaids in the American Legion Hall in Eddystone. Miss Wilkes will marry William Powell of Eddystone next month.Chester Police Chief Howard H. Winfree presented pins to two patrolmen for their 20 years of service with the Chester Police Department. Honored were Lloyd H. Garman, who is in charge of school crossing guards, and Vincent Boles.High Meadow Civic Association in Middletown is having a square dance at the Parkside Firehouse. Caller will be Chris Sanderson of Chadds Ford. Mrs. Charles Boone of Meadowglen Lane is in charge of tickets.

25 YEARS AGO — 1983

Mr. and Mrs. Louis R. Warfel of Ridley Park celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a dinner at the Alpine Inn, Springfield. Mrs. Warfel is the former Mary Bunce of Chester.

10 YEARS AGO — 1998

Randy Canale, president of the Delaware County AFL-CIO Council, helped Clifton Heights Officer Timothy Rockenbach adjust his bullet-proof vest. The union council donated $500 to the police department’s vest fund-raising campaign.

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Other Times --- Oct. 22

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

A large white onion is being exhibited at J. T. Burke’s Hotel in Chester. It is a monstrous vegetable weighing almost 38 ounces. William L. Bagshaw, the confectioner and baker at 1001 Upland St., Chester, has a hobby of collecting 3-cent pieces. He has collected 1,551 during the past year alone. Constable James T. Martin caught the thief who robbed the home of Charles Broomall in Linwood.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

Prospect Park residents are being warned by local police to beware of strangers who have been operating in the borough telling fortunes. Police said a borough resident gave $17 to a stranger who promised to take the money to a church to be blessed. The stranger and the money failed to return.The Rev. Dr. Carl L. Appelberg is superintendent and chaplain of the Seamen’s Institute of Delaware County that is located at 701 Market St., Marcus Hook, and has three open dormitories for seamen. There is also a large recreation room and a card room at the institute.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Four Folsom teenage boys who police say stole four cars since Oct. 3 to go on “joyriding sprees’’ were turned over to county juvenile authorities Linda Marie Dobnack, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rhett Dobnack of 2820 W. Front St., Chester, celebrated her fifth birthday anniversary with a party at her home.Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Hoffman of 407 E. 13th St., Chester, renewed their marriage vows in observance of their 25th wedding anniversary at Old St. Michael’s Church in Chester.Mr. and Mrs. Norman Walls and son of Saude Ave., Essington, are moving to Claymont.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Lansdowne Steel and Iron Co.’s hopes of moving to the Chester waterfront are just about dashed. However, company vice president said word is still being awaited from the Pentagon to consider modernizing an area at the Riverside Industrial Park in Chester. The workforce at the plant has been whittled from 280 to about 50 over the past few years. Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Tarr of Morton celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at an open house given by their daughter and son-in-law, Mary Ann and Bob Blair, also of Morton. Mr. Tarr is retired from Westinghouse in Lester.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Members of Range Memorial Church of God in Christ, West Seventh and Fulton streets, Chester, honored their pastor, Bishop Cornelius F. Range III at a “70th Victory Celebration.’’

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Other Times --- Oct. 20

100 YEARS AGO — 1908

Miss Cassie Welch and Edward Johnson led the grand march as the Misfit Social Club of Chester had its first annual sociable at Edgmont Hall.Maj. D.R.B. Nevin of Ridley Park is assisting in the compilation of an encyclopedia of the Presbyterian Church of the United States.James F. Williams and William Phillips extended the porches of their homes on Parker Street in Chester and did the work themselves.

75 YEARS AGO — 1933

James H. Deavenport is directing the Chester police while Chief of Police John Vance is taking an indefinite leave of absence.There will be a free pig roast this Saturday night at the Chester Hotel, 255 Market St.An employee of the Ford Assembly plant in Chester told police he had been stopped on the street by several men who took his working badge away from him. He also told the police the men told him if he returned to the plant that is on strike, he would get hurt. The worker, who lives on East Ninth Street, Chester, did not whether the men were strikers or sympathizers.

50 YEARS AGO — 1958

Mrs. Holbrook M. Bunting Jr., 35, of Ridley Township, has sent a letter to Springfield medical doctors criticizing them for their reported objections to a proposed osteopathic hospital in that township. “The doctor of osteopathy is required to pass state boards and must be licensed to practice. His license gives him the same rights, privileges and immunities that are given the medical doctor.”For the first time in the history of Folcroft ambulance service is offered by the Folcroft Fire Co. that has purchased an ambulance. Ambulance supervisor is William Cook Jr. and a trained nurse accompanies an ambulance attendant on long trips. She is Mrs. Esther Cook.Joseph Zommick, real estate agent in Chester, is assisted by his staff that includes David and Leon Chernoff, Leon Gordon and Bernard Schatz.

25 YEARS AGO — 1983

Two Delaware County detectives and a Brookhaven police officer were injured after a man was stopped for driving a suspected stolen car. The motorist ran them down after he stepped on the gas. Detectives Gregory Seltzer and Glen Greenwald and Officer Richard Fuller were treated at Crozer-Chester Medical Center. The Glenolden driver also was treated at the hospital and is in police custody.Rose Tree Park’s Nativity Scene will not stay in mothballs this Christmas season while the U.S. Supreme Court mulls the issue of tax-supported religious displays. County Councilman Nick Catania of Ridley Township said the display goes up and will be lighted beginning Dec. 11.

10 YEARS AGO — 1998

The Paxon Hollow Middle School football team plays a game with Upper Darby Middle School. Proceeds will benefit Don Ott, a physical education teacher at Marple Newtown High School, who is suffering with leukemia.

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Other Times --- Oct. 17

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

John A. Wood, a Chester grocer, is the proud possessor of one of the quill pens that was used by Chief Justice Milville Weston Fuller of the U.S. Supreme Court in signing court decrees. It was a gift from the court clerk.A party of Chester hunters, including Dr. George R. Bentley, shot 17 rabbits while hunting in the Markham section of the county.Through the enterprise of one of Chester’s well-known citizens the city has had established a new industry. Holstein H. Fields, manager of the brickyard at 11th and Concord, has begun the manufacture of concrete hollow bricks that can be used in construction. The blocks are used extensively in some parts of the country but are unknown in these parts.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

George J. Courtney is the new president of the Ridley Park Barnstormers that are beginning their 27th theatrical season.A man was arrested by railway police when he was found lying dangerously close to the tracks at Front and Market streets, Chester. He was given 10 days in jail by Magistrate Honan for loitering and for being homeless.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Barbara Turek, a senior student at Chester High School, has been named Girl of the Month by the Chester Business and Professional Women’s Club. She received an emblem pin from Mrs. Pearl E. Aley, president of the club.Five men, the last surviving miners who worked a Bethel Township Garnet Mine 52 years ago, had a reunion in Chelsea. The five worked in the second of two garnet mines in the Garnet Mine and Conchester Roads section. The men are Robert Phillips, 75, of Johnson’s Corner; Edward Larkin Sr., 83 of Chelsea; Reece Zebley 84, of Bethel; Jacob Davis, 84 of Green Ridge; and Harold Larkin, 83, of Bethel.The Rhythm Riffs entertain tonight and Saturday night at the Essington Republican Club, 3rd and Jansen Avenue.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Carl Mau, the “Idea Man” of Delaware County is in Riddle Hospital because he’s not feeling up to snuff. Mau of Aston has had many ideas throughout the years. The most recent was the Hunger Huts that are placed throughout the area for food donations.The American Association of Retired Persons is forming a Lansdowne chapter. Betty Fox and Frances Brewington are in charge of the effort and may be contacted for further information.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Darby Fire Co. No. 1 is sponsoring a job fair at the firehouse, Chester Pike and Quarry Street. More than 20 employers will be here for the job seekers.

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Other Times --- Oct. 10

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

Thomas H. Higgins, former postmaster in Chester, has returned to the city for a visit with friends. He is now a postal inspector in a section of North Carolina.Robert Calhoun is managing the Chester Roller Skating Rink, which has opened for another season.Members of the newly organized Felton Fire Co. in Chester have received their new badges.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

The Apollo and Strand movie theaters in Chester advertise the lowest admission prices in the city. Admission is 10 cents for afternoon matinees and 15 cents for evening performances. Mrs. John K. Walker of Rose Tree Road, Upper Providence, was appointed corresponding secretary for the Delaware County SPCA in the township.A sneak thief entered the store of Ambrose Collins on West Third Street, Chester, through an outside cellar door and stole about $2 that had been hidden in a sugar can in the store. The cellar door had been left open.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

William F. Stock, of Chester, training coordinator at the Chester Assembly Plant of Ford Motor Co., has retired after 30 years of service.McCrory’s at 609 Edgmont Ave., Chester, is having an anniversary sale and offers two pounds of crème sandwich cookies for 43 cents.Samuel O. Godfrey, driver education instructor at Ridley Park High School, demonstrated proper tire inspection to students, John Ratliff and Michael Gunsaullus.Essington firemen are planning to restore an old hand-drawn fire apparatus to use for display and parade purposes. The apparatus came from the Philadelphia Seaplane Base in the township. The apparatus was inspected by Firemen Howard (Babe) Whaley, Assistant Chief Thomas Legg and Chief Joseph Zentmyer.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Members of the Fitzgerald Mercy Hospital Auxiliary are having a fall fashion show and luncheon at the Drexelbrook Inn. The event is being planned by Mrs. Thomas P. Sherry of Drexel Hill, general chairman; Mrs. William Weyand of Drexel Hill, president of the auxiliary and Margaret McCrea of Lansdowne, co-chairman.Folcroft Councilman James Curren resigned his borough council seat and was named to the mayor’s post that was left vacant with the resignation of William Monteith. Curren, 52, has served on council for 11 years.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Aston Public Library is celebrating its first birthday anniversary with a party at its new facility on Concord Road. There are prizes, a pet show, and refreshments.

--- LEN CASTERLINE

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Other Times --- Oct. 8

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

Mr. and Mrs. Zachariah M. Bowen of Chester are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. One of their sons is William M. Bowen, secretary of the Chester School Board.Reading Railroad has issued an order to trainmen in Chester to carefully wipe the handrails on the passenger coaches prior to each stop in order that the passengers will not get their hands or gloves dirty while stepping out of the car.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

The Folcroft Drum and Bugle Corps, a crack junior military organization connected with the Folcroft Public School, romped away with two first prizes in competitive drills at Darby and Colwyn.Judge Albert Dutton MacDade granted a divorce to a Swarthmore woman from a wealthy Egyptian cotton broker who is living in Cairo. The woman said she was married in Cairo while visiting there. She laid the blame for her marital unhappiness on her husband’s frequent boasting of his conquests of other women. The couple has one daughter. The wife testified that often her husband took several chorus girls in their car. The wife sat in the front and he sat in the back surrounded by several of these beauties.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Aviation Electronics Technician 2.C. John W. Sassaman, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Sassaman of Collingdale, was a crewman aboard a Super Constellation aircraft carrier of the Airborne Early Warning Squadron based at Jacksonville, Fla.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Congressman Bob Edgar (D-7th District) and his family had a home open house fundraiser at their new home at 124 Norwinden Drive, Springfield. All proceeds went to the Springfield Democratic Committee.A 52-year-old Marcus Hook man pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent assault charges involving a special education student. Delaware County Judge Frank T. Hazel deferred sentencing.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Food service employees of the Haverford School District were recognized at a luncheon. Two staff members were honored for their achievements. They were Maria D’Avella who was named employee of the year and Alice Viola who was named manager of the year.

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Other Times --- Oct. 7

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

John Longbotham of Edgmont Avenue, Chester, dug a not-too-deep hole in his back yard and buried the horse he lost in it. Neighbors have been complaining about his action.John H. Bullock, the blacksmith at Chadwick’s wheelwright shop in Chester, is entering the corn-husking competition at the county fair at Elwyn.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

The U.S. Navy Band playing over the nationwide network of the NBC System features a composition on Monday night of a Darby song writer. “The Blue Eagle,’’ written by Walt Burgess of Darby, will be played by the full band. He wrote the words and music for the anthem.Striking employees of the assembly plant of Ford Motor Co. in Chester have decided to abandon their plans to converge on Detroit, Mich., and picket the plant of the company in that city. Complaint has been made to Prospect Park Borough Council that residents of the borough have been putting poison in their garbage that is collected three times a week and fed to hogs and other livestock. James Matura of Ogden, collector of the garbage, said 12 hogs have died recently after being fed the garbage.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Woodlyn Fire Co. is planning a banquet to celebrate its 15th anniversary at the firehouse on Fairview Road and Grant Avenue. Joseph Leary is chairman of the banquet committee. Fire chief is Richard Perchalski, who announced that Anthony Greto has been admitted as a new member of the company.Marcus Hook Borough Council announced all frame dwellings in the borough will be inspected to determine whether they are fire hazards. Named to the inspection committee were William Devonshire, Francis Rizzo, James Frick and Chester F. Baker.Army Pvt. Robert H. Stewart, 21, son of Mr. and Mrs. Horace Stewart of Eddystone, has been assigned duties as a clerk at Fort Bragg, N.C. He is a graduate of Eddystone High School and before entering the service was a stock boy at the Everlast Mill Store in Eddystone.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Licenses for those who want to hunt deer in Ridley Creek State Park and Tyler Arboretum for the first time ever have been sold out. There were 900 special hunting permits issued for both locations.Mr. and Mrs. John Brown of Media celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary at their children’s home in Fort Myers, Fla. Mrs. Brown is the former Rita Heavens and Mr. Brown is retired from Walsh Ford.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

The Bethel Township Hose Co. 1 is sponsoring a train meet at the firehouse. There is a charge for those who want to display their model trains and also for those who wish to attend.

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Other Times --- Oct. 6

100 YEARS AGO - 1908

The newly organized Comas Club for young people in the West End of Chester has elected Richard Frazier as president; Lester Armstrong, vice president; Harry Getty and Charles Wood, secretaries; and William Gillis, treasurer. Andrew J. Dalton was elected president of the Upland Athletic Association.P. Branin of Chester is running a large coach to the county fair at Elwyn to accommodate those who would rather go by carriage than by rail. The fare will be 50 cents for a roundtrip in the coach

75 YEARS AGO - 1933

Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Parsons Hamilton of Middletown Road, near Black Horse, Middletown, are observing the seventh anniversary of their marriage.Joe has opened his new coat department featuring fur-trimmed cloth coats for $9.95. Joe’s is at 115 W. Third St., Chester, and he has available a layaway plan.Several stamp collectors of Eddystone formed a stamp club at the home of Albert Clark on Ninth Street. Weekly meetings are held and anyone wishing to join may contact Clark.

50 YEARS AGO - 1958

The Chester Fire Department is $100 richer as a result of having been named second-best appearing company in the line of march at the parade of the Pennsylvania State Firemen’s Association at Scranton. Harold Walker, 29, of 127 E. Fifth St., Chester, tripped and sprained a foot tendon while parading with the Chester firemen. He was returned to Chester Hospital in the Franklin Rescue Squad wagon accompanied by Detective John Welc and Patrolman Bart Spedden.A new chapter of the Jaycees is being organized for the MacDade Boulevard-Chester Pike area of Holmes under the sponsorship of the Chester Jaycees Robert Pierpont of the Chester Jaycees said the new chapter is open to young men between the ages of 21 and 35. There are other Jaycee chapters in Springfield, Middletown, Upper Darby, Media, East Delco, Marple and Chester.

25 YEARS AGO - 1983

Marcus Hook Borough Council approved the appointment of James McDonnell, 25, of Wallingford as code-enforcement officer in the borough.Eighty students from three school districts in the county are not attending school as a result of the new state immunization law that requires immunizations. The students are from Chester Upland, Southeast Delco and Upper Darby school districts. 10 YEARS AGO - 1998Donna Meyers of Ridley Park has received the Corporate Hero Award from Keystone Bank. The award recognizes associates who perform extraordinary actions to satisfy the needs of customers.

— LEN CASTERLINE

To contact Len Casterline,

e-mail: lencas1038@verizon.net

or lencas1038@yahoo.com

or call (610) 565-4298

Other Times --- Oct. 3

100 YEARS AGO — 1908

Edward Crozer of Upland has purchased a new six-cylinder automobile of the new Thomas make. It is capable of speeds of 50 miles an hour.The Chester Engineering and Machine Co., on Front Street, between Chester Creek and Penn Street, is building taxicabs. It recently sold six taxis in Philadelphia and is negotiating for the sale of 50 taxis in New York City.Sneak thieves and night prowlers are becoming bolder in Chester and the police are watching certain men who were recently released from jail and have been seen about their old haunts.

75 YEARS AGO — 1933

Two-thousand khaki-clad Boy Scouts joined in a gigantic Boy Scout Field Day in Deshong Park, Chester. Featured were a parade, demonstrations, an ox roast and a campfire session. Scouts attended from every part of the county.Dr. Martin Huberman of Chester has opened his optometric office at Fifth and Market streets. The office had been the former home of The Chester Times.

50 YEARS AGO — 1958

Middletown Township Supervisors have decided to create the new post of township manager because of the growth of the township. The position will pay about $6,000 a year.The owner of a Collingdale tavern admitted in court he cheated his customers for five months by using a money-saving whiskey-switching scheme. He admitted to fill bottles of whiskey with a cheaper brand. He was fined $300 by County Judge Diggins.Robert Strayer, 10, and Glenn Stratton, 7, took first prizes in the Junior Garden Show at Scenic Hills School in Springfield. Robert won in the vegetable class and Glenn won for his arrangement.

25 YEARS AGO — 1983

Collingdale Borough Council voted to extend the curfew on Pusey Avenue that had been imposed after last month’s slaying in the area. One resident said “the curfew has been great. It’s like heaven. It’s like old times down here.”About 20 students of the Bunting Friendship Freedom House in Darby filed into the county council chambers to celebrate the beginning of Freedom House Month. Ethel Smiley founded the Freedom House 15 years ago.Taylor Hospital in Ridley Park honored 137 student volunteers with a dinner. The volunteers gave more than 13,000 hours of service during the past 12 months.

10 YEARS AGO — 1998

Sam’s Aston Mills Tavern on Aston Mills Road is having its semi-annual Polish Food Fest this weekend along with a dance party with music by DJ Ray. Next weekend, the Double Clutchin’ Weasels provide the music.

— LEN CASTERLINE

To contact Len Casterline,

e-mail lencas1038@verizon.net

or lencas1038@yahoo.com

or call (610) 565-4298

Other Times --- Oct. 2

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

Frank Innis, the assistant postmaster in Chester, has been licensed to preach by the Chester Presbytery. He has been in charge of the Holmes Presbyterian Church. Edward Goff has sold the Union Hotel he has operated on West Third Street, near the bridge in Chester. Some person stole several of the electric light globes from in front of the new moving picture house at Third and Wilson streets, Chester. Further depredations will not be tolerated.

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

Local baseball fans who have not secured tickets for the World Series opening game in New York need not be discouraged. They can gather in front of the Chester Times Building on East Eighth Street and hear the broadcast of the game in comfort. The Radio Electric Service Co. at 546 Edgmont Ave., Chester, has installed a powerful amplifier that guarantees perfect reception. The same service will be used for the games played in Washington.The Retail Liquor Dealers Association of Delaware County has bee organized. M. Joseph Connelly, proprietor of a taproom at 69th and Market streets, Upper Darby, was elected president.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

Mrs. Earl L. Bigger of 1203 Clover Lane, Buckman Village, Chester, is the newly elected president of the Chester Council of Republican Women.Abraham W. Wolson, Naval aviation cadet, and son of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Wolson, 624 Sproul St., Chester, completed his first helicopter solo flight at Ellyson Field Naval Auxiliary Air Station at Pensacola, Fla. Bargain City is the county’s newest major store. It’s at MacDade Boulevard and Fairview Avenue, Woodlyn, and is managed by Isadore Klitzner.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

Upper Darby police were called to release a dog whose head was caught in a wrought iron fence in the 200 block of Heather Road. The dog was a stray and took off after its release.Members of Edgmont Fire Co. kick off Fire Prevention Week next week with fire engine rides for youngsters. Fire Chief Joe Luglio said that tot-finder decals and telephone stickers also will be given out at the firehouse.Airman 1.C. Charles J. Anderson of Aston has received the Air Force Achievement Medal at the Upper Heyford Royal Air Force Station in England, where he is a weapons specialist.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

John Bradley of Colwyn attended the borough council meeting along with 100 other borough residents and asked that the borough establish its own police department. Police service had been provided by Darby.

-- LEN CASTERLINE

To contact Len Casterline,

e-mai: lencas1038@verizon.net

or lencas1038@yahoo.com

or call (610) 565-4298

Other Times --- Oct. 1

100 YEARS AGO – 1908

Dr. Harry Kershaw of the Park Pharmacy at Third and Highland, Chester, while down in the cellar of the store, butted his head against a beam and the result is he has an elevation of the cuticle caused by an interior swelling near the skull.The new Fairland moving picture theater opened at Diamond Street and Baltimore Avenue, Clifton Heights. Robert Holt is proprietor of the place that will seat 160 people. The place is well ventilated and in addition to moving pictures there will be vaudeville shows

75 YEARS AGO – 1933

Mrs. Lewis Citrenbaum of Garden City and her children, Cina and Monroe, have returned after visiting Mrs. Citrenbaum’s parents in Summerville, N.J.The Chester YMCA has donated a number of steel athletic lockers to the Chester Boys Club at Front and Concord avenues. The lockers had been at the YMCAState police are searching for two bandits who held up a riding instructor at the Brinton Lake Club in Concord. They escaped with $15.

50 YEARS AGO – 1958

The assembly plant of Ford Motor Co. in Chester returned to full-time production of 1959 cars and station wagons. Work at the plant had been suspended because of a shortage of materials.Some $350 worth of golf clubs, balls, tees, bags and other equipment and $10 in cash were stolen from the office of the Valley Brook Driving Range on Wilmington-West Chester Pike. The range is operated by William Boucher.

25 YEARS AGO – 1983

A threatened strike by workers at the county’s Fair Acres Geriatric Center in Lima was averted after marathon negotiations. Details of the tentative agreement were not divulged.Michael P. Fletcher of 248 E. Winona Ave., Norwood, has been awarded the Eagle Scout Medal. He’s a member of Troop 174 in Norwood.“The Fighting Tigers” is the name of the new boxing team at the Salvation Army Community Center at 151 W. 15th St., Chester. Dennis Shaw, a boxer and trainer, runs the program.

10 YEARS AGO – 1998

Clyde and Marian McCleaft of Aston observed their 50th wedding anniversary with a party at the Aston American Legion. Clyde (Sonny) is a retired operating engineer and his wife is retired from the Penn Delco School District.

--- LEN CASTERLINE

To contact Len Casterline,

e-mail lencas1038@verizon.net

or lencas1038@yahoo.com

or call (610) 565-4298