Out of the past 7/4/10

25 years ago: July 4, 1985

With the holiday coming on a week day, Cape Girardeau police report few incidents; officers do break up two disputes.

Cmdr. Earl F. Lewis, who was held captive by North Vietnamese for more than five years during the Vietnam War, has retired from the Navy.

50 years ago: July 4, 1960

The Louis K. Juden Post of the American Legion hosts its annual Fourth of July picnic at Arena Park, drawing thousands to the weekend event.

While most city residents enjoy picnics and other holiday activities, Cape Girardeau police investigate seasonal incidents of firecracker vandalism.

75 years ago: July 4, 1935

A large crowd turns out for the annual American Legion Fourth of July picnic in Fairground Park; hundreds of people unable to find a place to sit remain in their automobiles on the outside of the park and hundreds of others sit on surrounding lawns to view the fireworks display.

100 years ago: July 4, 1910

Harsh weather yesterday and again today causes Capahas manager Martin Oberheide to cancel the big Fourth of July celebration at the fairgrounds.

Travel on the Frisco Railroad is so heavy that the St. Louis-Memphis day trains carry several extra coaches and two conductors.

-- Sharon K. Sanders