Out of the past 5/13/10

25 years ago: May 13, 1985

A vessel of American Cruise Lines of Haddam, Conn., is docked at Cape Girardeau; the Savannah is carrying 109 passengers on an inland waterways cruise; while here, passengers tour historic spots in the city and immediate area.

Cape Girardeau County's sales tax receipts have been below anticipated averages throughout this year, with May's check falling to an all-time low, says Auditor H. Weldon Macke; May's sales tax receipts dipped to $60,198.96.

50 years ago: May 13, 1960

The kindergarten class at the Campus School is surprised by the gift of a white angora nanny goat, 3 1/2 months old, presented by Mr. and Mrs. Morley Swingle; however, before she can get used to her new home, she discovers an unlocked gate and flees; the children are anxious to have their new pet returned.

Officials of the Cook Paint and Varnish Co., have announced the signing of a lease with C.A. Juden, owner, for a building at 28 N. Spanish St., in which the first Cook Paint factory retail branch store in Southeast Missouri will be established.

75 years ago: May 13, 1935

Fred A. Groves, owner of Groves Motor Co., is named president of the Rotary Club; he will succeed State College president Dr. Walter W. Parker on July 1.

Excavation is being completed at Colonial Tavern for an extended parking lot for automobiles; workers are moving about 1,200 cubic yards of earth from a plot 100 feet long and 85 feet wide, to provide additional space; the area will be surfaced with chat.

100 years ago: May 13, 1910

The big, fifth annual field meet for high schools of Southeast Missouri begins at the Normal School; several parties of high school representatives came Thursday, and the trains today are crowded with the colors of various schools.

The home of Squire Robert M. Sawyer, just outside the Jackson city limits, is destroyed by fire; the blaze starts from the kitchen flue, just about the time dinner is being cooked.

-- Sharon K. Sanders