25 years ago: May 25, 1980

The Rev. Russell A. Anderson is guest speaker at services at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Jackson Route 2, and Christ Lutheran Church at Gordonville.

Joe Bowers and Ed Britt of Nashville, Tenn., a singing team, is featured at the New McKendree United Methodist Church leading the congregation in both contemporary and traditional music.

50 years ago: May 25, 1955

Three citizens of Memmingen, Germany, arrived in Cape Girardeau yesterday and will be here for several days to view the city's schools, industry and social activities; their trip to the United States is sponsored by the State Department as part of the program promoting friendship and understanding between the U.S. and other countries.

An all-inclusive Civil Defense plan, 82 pages of closely-typed information on procedures to be put into effect in the event of disaster or enemy attack in or near Cape Girardeau, is released by Mayor Narvol A. Randol, who directed its preparation; the plan can be added to as needed, or as changes might become necessary.

75 years ago: May 25, 1930

Most Cape Girardeau churches dispense with evening services in order that members may attend the baccalaureate exercises for the Central High School graduating class, being held at Centenary Methodist Church; Dr. C.H. Morton, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, delivers the sermon.

Fire originating in the movie theater in the three-story Lightner building in Illmo destroys that structure, one occupied by Martin's bakery and a dwelling early in the morning, causing damage estimated in excess of $50,000; all equipment in both the business buildings is destroyed in the blaze.

100 years ago: May 25, 1905

L.J. Albert receives a telegram from W.D. Vandiver in the morning stating that Gov. Joseph W. Folk will attend the bridge dedication at Thebes, Ill., today and will then come to Cape Girardeau; it is hoped that the Illinois Gov. Charles S. Deneen, who is also attending the ceremony, can be persuaded to return to Cape Girardeau for the big drummers convention.

There is no doubt, the drummers meeting will be the biggest thing to ever happen in Cape Girardeau; preparations have been made to care for 10,000 visitors; the two-day convention will kick off tomorrow at 3 p.m. with a reception and address by the mayor at Common Pleas Courthouse Park.

-- Sharon K. Sanders