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by James Rada, Jr.

March 1924, 100 Years Ago

County Gains In Battle With Storm Damage

Frederick county today gained ground in recovering from the effects of the disastrous storm which swept this section the first of the week. Although this section is still isolated, communication in being slowly established.

…The telephone and telegraph services are beginning to look much lighter according to reports. The C. and P. Telephone Company has succeeded in establishing communication with Hagerstown and on through to Cumberland There is also a probability that communication will be established between this city and Baltimore and Washington some time Friday, said Paul I. Payne, general manager of this division. This, however, is problematical, as new difficulties are always being encountered, he added, Lines have also been opened between Frederick and Walkersville and Thurmont. There is still no telegraph service, however.

                                – Frederick Daily News, March 13, 1924

Get Trophy Tonight

This evening at 7.30 o’clock the Thurmont ball club, winner of the Frederick County League pennant for the 1923 season, will hold a banquet in the north county town at which time the league championship trophy will he formally presented by M. J . Thompson, president of the league.

Lester S. Birely, president, and William J. Stoner, manager of the Thurmont club, have made elaborate preparations for the banquet. Invitations have been mailed to the league officers and to two representatives of each of the other seven clubs in the circuit, requesting them to attend the banquet.

                                – Frederick Daily News, March 17, 1924

March 1949, 75 Years Ago

Town To Install Parking Meters

Installation of parking meters in Emmitsburg is to be started in the near future. In fact, the project is expected to be completely in operation within the next six weeks, Mayor Thornton Rodgers informed the Chronicle this week. The contract has been let to the Michael Art Bronze

Co., Washington, D. C. branch, and all that is holding up the meters is the inscription explaining the local parking hours which should be finished in approximately 30 days.

The meters will start at Frailey’s Store on W. Main St. and will terminate at Community Pure Food Store on E. Main St. There will be none installed on North and South Seton Avenues, it was explained, but there will be restricted parking on one side of these thoroughfares and appropriate signs will be placed by the State Roads Commission in the near future.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 4, 1949

Rocky Ridge Man Murdered By Gangsters

Daniel Joseph Myers, 57-year old native of Rocky Ridge, who was buried in Mt. Tabor Lutheran Church cemetery, was murdered in Dayton, 0., last Friday it was learned today.

A 23-year-old ex-convict, whom Mr. Myers had befriended, and a 30-year-old companion, have confessed to crushing the skull of the Dayton restauranteur in a room over his H. & G. Restaurant in Dayton with a soft drink bottle, according to Dayton police. The men admitted robbing Myers of $60 after the fatal assault.

They identified Milton Henry, recently released from confinement in Kentucky on a burglary conviction, and William Henry Childers, powerfully built Dayton moving firm employe, as the confessed murderers.

Henry, they said had been given a room and employment by Mr. Myers after the former had lost his job with a Dayton bakery. Henry stated that he kept watch while Childers bludgeoned the restaurant owner to death in the latter’s room over the restaurant. 

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 11, 1949

March 1974, 50 Years Ago

Town To Soon Begin Building Swimming Pool

With the assistance of the Maryland State Program Open Space and the Emmitsburg Memorial Post 6658, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Emmitsburg will soon have a community swimming pool. According to a letter to the Frederick County Commissioners from the State Department of Natural Resources, the Maryland Board of Public Works has approved commitment of over $132,000 to the town for the swimming pool project. This amount represents 75 per cent of the estimated project costs. The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post has voted to donate up to $40,000 to the town to help pay the remaining amount.

The project includes the construction of a 5,000 square foot swimming pool, a 315 square foot wading pool, a 2,500 square foot bathhouse complete with concrete decking, fencing, lighting, an office, landscaping and a playground. It will cost an estimated $176,043 to develop.

According to Philip Topper, town treasurer, the project may not have been possible without the VFW’s “generous offer.”

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 14, 1974

Redskins To Play Basketball Here

The Washington Redskins of the National Football League, and winners of the National Conference Championship of 1972, will be playing basketball at Catoctin High School this Saturday night, March 9, at 8 p.m. Their opponents will be the Alumni All-Stars consisting of: Gene Eyler, Harry Hahn, George Baker, Gary Manning, Jim Weddle, Bill and Steve Wildasin, Larry “Pup” Brown, Lee Koontz, Eddie Gills, Charlie Gearhart, and Dave Swomley.

Preceeding the Redskin game, beginning at 6:30 p.m., the Catoctin High faculty will be playing a group of senior boys, headed up by Dick Love, that participated in Fall sports at Catoctin.

Just received from the Redskin office is an up-to-date list of the 20 basketball players available, ten of which will be present. The names are as follows: Mike Bragg, Brig Owens, Herb Mul-Key, Ted Vactor, Mike Bass, Charley Taylor, Frank Grant, Harold McLinton, Chris Hanburger, John Wilbur, Dennis Johnson, Paul Laaveg, George Starke, Terry Hermeling, Walter Rock, Bill Brundige, Roy Jefferson, Jimmie Jones, Jerry Smith and Dave Robinson.

Even though Larry Brown’s name does appear on the list, the Redskin office has stated that he does sometimes appear at these games.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 7, 1974

March 1999, 25 Years Ago

Fireman Succumbs On Duty

Volunteer firefighter Terry Lee Myers, 50, of the Vigilant Hose Company, Emmitsburg, suffered a fatal heart attack while on duty at the scene of a brush fire on Monday, February 15, 1999.

Myers had driven Engine 64, the company’s main water supply unit, to the scene of the mid-day fire near the ARCC on the grounds of Mount Saint Mary’s College. He was operating the front-mounted pump on the engine when he was stricken.

Immediate life-saving measures were initiated by emergency medical personnel who were within feet of Myers when he fell. Fire Chief Frank Davis, who was close by, issued a call for additional medical support but all efforts to revive Myers were unsuccessful. Although advanced medical treatment continued enroute to the Gettysburg Hospital, doctors there were also unable to revive him. He was pronounced dead about an hour and 15 minutes after his collapse at the scene.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, March 1999

The Torch Is Passed

CPI Printing, former publisher of the Emmitsburg Chronicle, will be taking a new direction soon. The new owner, Dave Runkle of Hanover, will take an already thriving business and increase its potential. A former satisfied customer of Arthur Elder, long-time owner and manager of the company, Mr. Runkle became interested in the business through first-hand experience with its quality production and historic significance to the community.

                                    – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, March 1999

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by James Rada, Jr.

February 1924, 100 Years Ago

Collided With Policeman

Miss Clara Landers, of Thurmont, who is spending the winter in Brooklyn with her sister, Mrs. R. J. Royer, met with a serious accident last Wednesday. She was walking rather fast to attend a session of “lip reading” school, when she collided with a policeman and was knocked to the pavement. She was taken to the school, and, when found she had sustained serious injury, was sent home in a cab. Her collar bone was broken.

                                – Frederick Daily News, February 19, 1924

Thurmont Lands First Place in School Debates

First honors in the senior high school debating league of Frederick county were taken by Thurmont high school, Wednesday night, while Walkersville high school won the debate championship among the smaller high schools. Debating teams representing Thurmont high school defeated Frederick high school in Frederick and Middletown high school in Thurmont.

The Walkersville high school team triumphed over the Emmitsburg high school at Walkersville and over the Liberty high school team at Liberty. Liberty also lost a debate with Emmitsburg high school at Emmitsburg.

                                – Frederick Daily News, February 4, 1924

February 1949, 75 Years Ago

Story Discloses Nine Churches Held Lotteries

The effort to provide pari-mutuel betting at race meets at the Frederick Fair Grounds has aroused opposition among a number of church groups. It is interesting to note, in reviewing the events of history how moral standards regarding gambling have changed with the passing years. Many churches and schools resorted to lotteries in the early days, and it was not until shortly before the War between the States that this method of raising funds for worthwhile purposes was abandoned.

It may surprise some younger residents to learn that the Seminary buildings on East Church St. or Winchester Hall, Frederick, as they are sometimes called, were built largely from the proceeds of legalized lotteries. These twin buildings with the handsome white columns are now owned by Frederick County.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, February 4, 1949

Dr. D. L. Beegle to Head Local Baseball Assn.

 At the Firemen’s Hall last Sunday afternoon at 2:30, the people of Emmitsburg voted and elected twelve directors of the Emmitsburg Baseball Assn. who will direct the local hall team’s activities this year. More than 35 ardents fans attended.

The nominating committee of five submitted twenty-five nominees and there was one write-in on the ballot. When the voting had been tallied, it showed Dr. D. L. Beegle, Charles Bollinger, Bernard Boyle, John White, Norman Flax, Arthur Elder, Floyd Miller, Carroll Frock, Thomas Gingell, Edward Lingg, George Rosensteel and Edward Stull as being elected.

Leonard Zimmerman, temporary chairman, had charge of the meeting until after the election of directors. Herbert Rogers read last year’s treasurer’s report which gave a balance of $357.10.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, February 11, 1949

February 1974, 50 Years Ago

Council Makes Plans To Obtain School

A community center for recreation and activities may soon be more than a dream if the town council wins approval of plans discussed at its monthly meeting Monday night. The hope of the council members is that local groups and organizations will support the town’s purchase of the old elementary school, which has been declared surplus property by the Frederick County School Board.

Council voted to send a “letter of intent” to the school board notifying them of the town’s interest in the building and property. The site, according to Commissioner Eugene Myers, will hopefully be available sometime in September.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, February 7, 1974

Daughters of Charity to Observe Seton Bicentennial

“Mother Seton: Pioneer in Group Care,” is the theme a one-day conference for Daughters of Charity active in group care work to be held February 12 at St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Emmitsburg.

The theme highlights the Emmitsburg Provinces’ observance of the Seton Bicentennial Year in 1974 through a series of events commemorating the birth of the foundress of the American Sisters of Charity, Elizabeth Ann Seton. Thirty sisters associated with institutions in Maryland and Virginia are expected to attend according to Sister Genevieve Kureth, provincial councillor (sic) for social services. They will be coming from St. Ann’s Infant Home, Hyattsville, St. Vincent’s Infant Home and Villa Louise, Timonium, St. Joseph’s Villa and Seton House, Richmond, Va., and St. Francis Center, Staunton, Va.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, February 7, 1974

February 1999, 25 Years Ago

VHC Loan Paid In Full

Vigilant Hose Company treasurer Steve Hollinger announced at the annual VHC banquet held January 9 that the $1.2 million loan for the purchase of an aerial ladder truck and renovation of the fire station is now paid in full. The announcement came following the presentation of a check for $50,000 to Art Damuth, past president, and Tim Clarke, president, by VHC auxiliary president, Dot Davis.

Mr. Hollinger told the gathering that the company had planned to pay off the loan from the Farmers & Mechanics Bank in 10 years, but with the help from the auxiliary and tip jars placed in local taverns the debt to F&M bank was paid in full in four years.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, February 1999

Catoctin High Groundbreaking

Frederick County Public School Board celebrated additions and renovations scheduled to begin at Catoctin High this year in a groundbreaking ceremony at the school’s gymnasium on Thursday, Jan. 28.

The school’s capacity will increase by 367 seats to accommodate a total of 1,200 students. Included in plans are a new gymnasium and renovation of the old gym, 18 additional classrooms, a new performing arts space, renovation of the media center, addition and renovation of science and art areas, and upgraded technology wiring throughout the building. Additions will add 51,630 gross square feet to the high school. Another 51,480 gross square feet will be renovated.

Completion of additions is expected in May 2000, with renovations slated for competition by September 2000. Principal Marlene Tarr, employed with Frederick County Public Schools since 1978, eagerly awaits increased capacity and improved facilities at the high school.

Proffitt and Pryor Architects PC designed the Catoctin High additions and renovations, and the project will be managed by Reynolds Construction Management, Inc.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, February 1999

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by James Rada, Jr.

January 1924, 100 Years Ago

Injured When Auto Hits Phone Pole

Miss Mary Nagle, of Thurmont, who suffered a fractured collar bone and a severe cut in her right hip last Monday morning, when the automobile in which she was riding left the road and struck a telephone pole along the Lincoln Highway near Abbottstown, Pa., is said to be improving.

Four persons were in the automobile, two men and two women. They were returning to Thurmont about 12:30 a.m., when suddenly the machine, a Hudson coach, left the road and struck a telephone pole. With the exception of Miss Nagle, the occupants of the machine were not badly hurt.

                                – Frederick Daily News, January 10, 1923

2 Suspects Not Hart And Tilson Sheriff Declares

Suspected of being Jack Hart and William F. Tilson, the two convicts who escaped from the Maryland Penitentiary two weeks ago, two men on a “walking tour,” were arrested by Sheriff Albaugh and Deputy Sheriff Crum this morning, near Lewistown. They gave the names of Jos. B. McCrossen and Roy McGlennon, hailing from Ohio and New York, respectively, they said.

The men spent Friday night in the basement of the power house at Thurmont. After they left this morning to walk to Frederick, someone at Thurmont notified Sheriff Albaugh that two men answering the descriptions of Hart and Tilson had spent the night in Thurmont and were walking towards this city.

Sheriff Albaugh and Deputy Crum started out the Thurmont pike in the Sheriff’s automobile. When near Lewistown, they saw the two men and asked them if they wanted a lift.

Before they got in the machine, however, the Sheriff searched them to see whether or not they had any fire arms. They had none.

Upon reaching this city, Sheriff Albaugh, who saw that there was not the slightest resemblance between the two men and Hart and Tilson, told them to come into his office and “warm up.” The two men regarded the whole affair as a huge joke as did the Sheriff and his deputy.

                                – Frederick Daily News, January 26, 1923

January 1949, 75 Years Ago

County May Get Pari-Mutuel Race Betting

The enactment of legislation to permit pari-mutuel betting at harness race meets at the Frederick Fair Grounds was approved by an overwhelming majority at the annual meeting of the life members of the Frederick County Agricultural Society, held in the Court House, Frederick, Saturday.

A resolution offered by Beninmin B. Rosenstock, attorney, and submitted to a secret ballot won by a margin of 127 to 22, it was announced.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, January 14, 1949

Thurmont Mother Honored At Military Fete

An Army Colonel, a Maryland mother of 24 children, 12 of whom are still living, was honored by the United States Army Tuesday evening at a ceremony sponsored by the Mothers of World War II Veterans at the War Memorial Building, Baltimore.

Mrs. Charles H. Clarke, of Thurmont, was presented an Army citation for “faithful public service” covering the period of the war years and since. The citation, sponsored by the Second Army and issued by Lieutenant-General L. T. Gerow, commanding, was presented to Mrs. Clarke by Colonel Arthur L. Shreve, executive of the Maryland-Delaware Military District.

Colonel Shreve, in presenting one of the highest citations available to a civilian citizen, asserted that it was through such voluntary service that the military and civilian population was gaining unity towards securing and guaranteeing a lasting peace.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, January 28, 1949

January 1974, 50 Years Ago

Mother Seton Bicentennial Year Opens With Mass Here

Bicentennial Year, some one thousand ecclesiastical and civic dignitaries, friends and benefactors joined His Eminence, Lawrence Cardinal Shehan, Archbishop of Baltimore, and the Daughters of Charity, in an Eucharistic Celebration, Saturday, January 5, at St. Joseph’s Provincial House.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, January 10, 1974

Canonization Nears For Mother Seton

During her relatively brief life of less than forty-seven years, Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton performed varied roles. By turn she was an attentive daughter, devoted wife, solicitous mother, and intrepid foundress. She was an especially devoted daughter of the Holy Roman Church and not only founded the first native American sisterhood, but also initiated the American parochial school system. She sent Sisters to staff St. Joseph’s Orphan Asylum, Philadelphia, and she personally cared for the sick and trained her Sisters to do likewise. Sisters who are her spiritual descendants, found today at every level of education, social work, and health care, are but the lengthened shadow of Mother Seton.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, January 10, 1974

January 1999, 25 Years Ago

Christmas Elves Strike Again

A lively crowd showed up at the town garage on Saturday morning after Thanksgiving for the annual Christmas swag making. The group was so full of energy that within 2 hours they had more than 200 swags with red bows ready to be hung on the street lights and poles. Jim Click, Leon Sperling, and Randy Myers hung the swags on Monday.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, January 1999

Fore! With An Eye On The Future

Growth? No growth? Managed development is the position taken by the Holloway Development Corporation which presented concept plans to the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of the Frederick County Planning and Zoning Commission December 9 at Winchester Hall in Frederick.

At stake is the development of approximately 1,000 acres that straddle the Mason-Dixon Line north of Emmitsburg. The acreage located in the vicinity of the Steinwehr Exit is bounded by US 15 on the west, Bullfrog Road on the north and Harney Road on the east. Planning for its development has progressed slowly over the past five years. “We have progressed slowly because we are incredibly anxious to be good neighbors and get people’s reactions,” said local Holloway representative Tom Wolf.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, January 1999

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by James Rada, Jr.

December 1923, 100 Years Ago

Infant Drowns in Creek Near Home

The funeral of Charles Hewitt, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Hewitt, of Thurmont, who was drowned Saturday afternoon when he fell into a small stream near his home, will be held this afternoon.

The child, who was aged one year, four months and 22 days, while playing about on Saturday afternoon, wandered away and it is supposed that he he fell into a small stream near his home. The child was found by his mother.

                                – Frederick Daily News, December 24, 1923

Dr. Kefauver Leaves Thurmont

After having served many of the citizens of Thurmont and the surrounding community for 32 years Dr. E. C. Kefauver has given up the practice of medicine there to take up his new duties as county health officer of Frederick county. The doctor and his family will leave on January 1, and take up their residence in Frederick. Dr. Kefauver’s successor is Dr. Levin M. Irving, of Chicago, who will occupy the office in the Masonic Building, Thurmont.

                                – Frederick Daily News, December 22, 1923

December 1948, 75 Years Ago

Local Girl Takes Sisterhood Vows

At a ceremony Saturday morning at 9 o’clock in the Chapel of the Monastery of the Visitation, Frederick, in the presence of a number of relatives and friends, Sister Mary Angela Saffer, formerly known as Margaret Mary Saffer, pronounced her perpetual vows which made her a permanent member of the Order of the Visitation.

Sister Angela is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Saffer, of Emmitsburg. Rev. James M. Hogan, pastor of St. John’s Church, performed the ceremony as delegate for His Excellency, Most Rev. Lawrence J. Shehan D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of Baltimore. Present also for the occasion were Rev. Roger K. Wooden, of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Thurmont, and Rev. Charles Stouter, C.M., Emmitsburg. Rev. Fr. Hogan preached the sermon preceding the ceremony.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, December 10, 1948

Thurmont Baby Show Proves Interesting Affair

Twenty four children of preschool age were entered in the Healthy Baby Show held in the Firemen’s Room of the Town Hall at Thurmont last Wednesday at 1:30 o’clock. Ten babies ranging in age from two months to one year, and fourteen from one year six years, were in the group. Under the direction of the County Health Nurse, Mrs. Susan Ward, and sponsored by the Thurmont Grange and the Guardian Hose Company, the show was held to promote more interest in the health clinic which the Grange is sponsoring.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, December 20, 1948

December 1973, 50 Years Ago

Kiddies’ Treat To Be Held Saturday at 2

This Saturday, December 22, at 2 p.m., Santa Claus will visit Emmitsburg in front of the VFW Home and bring candy and oranges to all local children. Parents are urged to have their children attend. The party is sponsored this year by the Francis X. Elder Post 121 American Legion, and VFW Post 6658 of Emmitsburg.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, December 20, 1973

Libraries Offer Audio Cassettes

A new and exciting thing is happening at the Public Libraries in Frederick County. Any registered Frederick County Public Library borrower in good standing may sign up to borrow Audio Cassettes of music, plays, information and instruction. Applicants must sign a separate card for cassettes registration. An interesting selection of cassettes is being offered… In case you do not have a cassette player, there will be a player in each library. You may not borrow the cassette player. It is assumed that you will have one in your possession either your own or a borrowed one. We anticipate the starting of this program in early January.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, December 27, 1973

December 1998, 25 Years Ago

New After-School Program to Begin in January

Emmitsburg officials, working since June with the Frederick County Bureau of Parks and Recreation, have developed a comprehensive after-school youth program which will include homework assistance, supervised recreation, and social skill development.

“We now have a youth program!” said Mayor Carr. “Under Deborah Spaulding (sic), a county parks and recreation employee, Emmitsburg’s youth program will start in January, 1999.”

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, December 1998

Community Service

The Town of Emmitsburg would like to thank Mr. Don Briggs (Coach) and the Mount Saint Mary’s rugby team for their recent community service efforts. On Saturday, November 7, 1998, Coach Briggs and the rugby team volunteered their services to paint many of the curbs for the Town’s no-parking zones. This kind of interest and community service demonstrate just what an asset Coach Briggs and these young men are to their team, Mt. St. Mary’s, and our community.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, December 1998

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by James Rada, Jr.

November 1923, 100 Years Ago

Thurmont Conference

The second of the series of conferences being held by the Frederick County C. E. Union will be held tonight at Thurmont, beginning at 7:30 o’clock. Following will be the program: Hymn, invocation; “Christian Endeavor, the Church’s Tool Chest,” Rev. Wm. R. Glen, Frederick; “An Ideal Prayer Meeting,” Frank Witter, Frederick; “An Ideal Business Meeting,” Vernon Coblentz, Middletown; music; “I Am My Brother’s Keeper” Ruth Krieg, Adamstown; “Nature, a Constant Reminder of Friendship of Christ,” Rev. John S. Adam, Westminster; “Friends of Christ,” Carroll M. Wright.

                                – Frederick Daily News, November 23, 1923

Purely Personal

Mr. Sanford L. Shaffer and family of Thurmont, moved last week to their new home: the property on the east side of Church street, owned by Dr. M. A. Birely.

                                – Frederick Daily News, November 12, 1923

November 1948, 75 Years Ago

Rabbits Scarce But Hunters Are Not Dismayed

While the United States is waging a cold war with the Russians it was a red-hot war that was begun Monday for the rabbits in Frederick County. The eager nimrods laid down a barrage that virtually shook rabbitland to its foundation.

One casualty was listed. He was Kenneth Carty, 16, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles W. Carty, near Catoctin Furnace, had the calf of one leg shattered and his foot peppered with shot when a new shotgun discharged as he was hunting with companions. His condition was reported favorable at the Frederick Hospital Thursday night.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, November 4, 1948

Prisoner Sentenced For Hallowe’en Vandalism, Walks Out of Jail; Returned Again

Less than an hour after he walked out of the Frederick jail, where he is serving a 90-day sentence, Ray Irvin Fraley, 22, of Thurmont, was back in custody Thursday afternoon. Fraley, sentenced last Saturday by Magistrate William J. Stoner in Thurmont, for malicious destruction of property in connection with a Hallowe’en prank, was serving as a trusty at the jail. He changed clothing in a lavatory and walked away about 2 o’clock.

State and Frederick City police were immediately notified as soon as Fraley’s disappearance was discovered. He was picked up about 3 o’clock in a Frederick bowling alley. He offered no resistance and was returned to the jail by Deputy R. Paul Buhrman.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, November 11, 1948

November 1973, 50 Years Ago

Fire Levels Historic Home; Bridge Knocked Out By Fireman Responding

An Emmitsburg fireman was injured when his van overturned while he was responding to a fire alarm at 9 Sunday evening. The fire leveled a large home, a former show place on the Crystal Fountain Road, two miles west of Emmitsburg.

Roger Harner, 24, Emmitsburg R2, was taken to the Warner Hospital, Gettysburg, in the Emmitsburg VFW ambulance after his van turned over on its roof and became wedged in the iron railing of an old wooden bridge on the Annandale Road, a half mile west of Emmitsburg, shortly after the fire alarm was sounded. He was treated at the hospital for injuries to his right eye, lip and chin.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, November 1, 1973

Hoisted Flag Shows Progress Of School

The red checkered flag flying on top of the new school building indicated completion of the structural steel on the building. The last piece was put in place last Friday, according to Robert Brown, Construction Superintendent. The exterior masonry work is 90% complete; curb and gutters, paving, fine grading, and seeding are almost complete.

Placement of cement board on the sloped roofs should be completed this week and the roof dried in with heavy tar paper next week. The plumbers have heat and water lines well under way. Assuming favorable weather, the steel decking will be placed on the flat roof sections next week and work is expected to start on the heating ducts.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, November 29, 1973

November 1998, 25 Years Ago

Overall a Good Start for the Mason-Dixon Line Fall Festival

The Emmitsburg Business and Professional Association (EBPA) met October 20th to discuss the success of the Mason-Dixon Line Fall Festival which they sponsored the first weekend in October this year as part of the county’s 250th anniversary celebration. The organization agreed that they would like it to become an annual event.

According to festival co-chairman Hope Mahoney, “There were some problems, mix-ups, and some things that really worked well. Of course, nobody could do anything about the weather. Overall, I think we have a basic structure in place that will help us plan for a program next year.”

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, November 1998

CASS Welcomes New Area Director

The Catoctin-Aires Majorette, Color Guard, and Drum Corps has captured the Maryland State Advanced C.A.M.A. Grand Championship Title for 1998. The award is presented to the advanced whole corps with the best overall placements for the areas of baton twirlers, color guard, and percussion units. In a clean sweep victory, the Catoctin-Aires Corps won first place in each of those areas. In addition, the corps’ color guard was awarded the Bob Setera Memorial High General Effect Trophy for its spectacular presentation of music as portrayed in movies. The corps was also named the Maryland title winners for Advanced Best Tiny Tot unit, and Advanced Best Complementary Unit for auxiliary sections with in the corps. The Juvenile Pom  Team championship title was also won by the Catoctin-Aires’ Juvenile Porn Team. The corps beginner branch twirling corps, Catoctin-Ettes, placed second in the Tiny Tot division for beginner tot sections.

Claiming victory in the dance-twirl competition, the corps’ elite dance twirl branch, under the name of Rampage, won advanced Sr. Dance-Twirl Team championship title, the Advanced Juvenile Dance-Twirl Team championship title and the Advanced Tiny TOT Dance-Twirl Team title. Placing second in the senior porn team division was the Rampage Senior Porn team. The corps also sponsors a Senior Percussion Ensemble, labeled X.R.A.; who placed second in that respective division.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, November 1998

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by James Rada, Jr.

October 1923, 100 Years Ago

New Lunch Room

Henry Weiss, proprietor of the New Thurmont Hotel, has secured the rooms in the Osler Building at Thurmont, formerly occupied by Wisotzkey Bros., in which, he will open a lunch room. He will still continue in the hotel business at the New Thurmont Hotel.

                                – Frederick Daily News, October 27, 1923

Purely Personal

Rev. J. L. Green, of Thurmont, left on Monday for Niagara Falls. He went by way of Harrisburg, where he joined friends who accompanied him. He will be gone about a week.

                                – Frederick Daily News, October 27, 1923

October 1948, 75 Years Ago

Seek Money Needed For School Work

A movement directed at the passage of a legislative act doubling the so-called “incentive fund” for new school construction was reported today to be gaining momentum as the County Commissioners gave further consideration to the proposed contract for additions to Thurmont High School.

Both the commissioners and members of the Board of Education were reported favorable toward the incentive fund increase plan and it was said that some State officials had exhibited an interest. Efforts will be made to enlist the aid of local legislators as well as representatives from other counties in the passage of such a measure.

                                – Frederick News, October 6, 1948

Deer Slayers Are Fined In State

Two men were fined $125 each today for shooting a deer out of season.

Leo B. Lewis of Emmitsburg and Sherman O. Lewis of Graceham pleaded guilty to charges of having a dead deer in their possession out of season and having loaded rifles in their automobile.

Magistrate William J. Stoner fined each $100 on the first count and $25 for the rifle charge. Both paid their fines.

                                – Cumberland News, October 15, 1948

October 1973, 50 Years Ago

Purchase Of Land For Park Completed

The Town of Emmitsburg completed purchase of a tract of land Monday estimated to be between 56 and 70 acres from Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Owens and Mr. and Mrs. Charles F. Sanders. The tract lies west of Lincoln Avenue extended or the new school property, extending to the Frailey property and runs from South Alley to Tom’s Creek. It will be annexed and developed as a town park and used for recreational purposes. Purchase price was $79,500.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 25, 1973

Health Congress Attended By Over One Hundred At Provincial House Here

The first Health Congress of the Southeast Province of the Daughters of Charity was held at St. Joseph’s Provincial House, Emmitsburg, October 19-20. The mood among the 115 Sisters who gathered was serious yet buoyant. To them the inalienable “right to life” guaranteed by the Constitution is indeed a self-evident truth. Facing daily pressure from the “new morality,” they seemed glad to come together for a mutual reaffirmation of the Christian and patriotic principles which guide their delivery of care.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 25, 1973

October 1998, 25 Years Ago

Skatepark Needs Community Support

… You may have noticed the ramps (skaters call them quarter pipes) set up in the parking lot of the Antique Mall in town. During the evening, between 5:00 and 9:00 P.M., area youngsters and I enjoy the thrill of gliding over asphalt and wood as we challenge gravity. Despite my slightly overweight, thirty-something condition (and the accompanying physical limitations), I have found great joy in skating with people half my age (and younger). In the process, I have learned that some of our local youngsters are great people – they are friendly, caring, funny, and generally respectful. The “skatepark,” as we call it, has become an important part of life for area youngsters.

We are currently at a crossroads – the skatepark needs your help. There needs to be more adult supervision at the skatepark. While the skaters are generally well behaved, it makes sense to have responsible adults around to ensure that youngsters are safe, that misbehavior is kept to a minimum, and to send the message that we (adults) are interested in their lives and committed to their well being.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1998

CASS Welcomes New Area Director

On October 5, Bill Derbyshire, the new coordinator of the Community Agency School Services will take his office in the Emmitsburg Community Center. He is replacing Debbie Swiderski who gave birth to her baby girl in early September. 

            – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1998

Once Upon a Time…

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By James Rada, Jr.

September 1923, 100 Years Ago

Penna. Youth Killed In County Auto Crash

George Shell, the 18-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Shell, Williamsport, Pa., was killed in an automobile accident at Franklinville, Md., on the Frederick Road, about three miles south of Emmitsburg, at about 6 o’clock, Tuesday evening.

Young Shell was driving a machine, occupied by his father, mother, another woman, one other man and a child. The machine was traveling northward and as it was rounding a curve at the beginning of Franklinville, slipped from the road.

The automobile swung around, overturning. All of the occupants were thrown out and badly shaken up. All escaped serious injury, however, with the exception of Shell.

                                – Frederick Daily News, September 5, 1923

Artillery Camps Here Over Night

A battalion of field artillery of the United States Army, Capt. Percy G. Black, commander, passed through Frederick Sunday and camped for the night at the Fair Grounds. They left early today for Rockville, where they will pitch camp for the evening. They will return to Fort Myer, Va., a few miles south of Washington, tomorrow.

The battalion consisted of Batteries A, B and C, and the Headquarters Detachment and Headquarters Train of the Sixteenth Artillery. They are on the return from Tobyhanna, Pa., where they trained the Pennsylvania National Guardsmen.

They made the return trip by way of Gettysburg, Pa., and camped at Thurmont Saturday night.

                                – Frederick Daily News, September 24, 1923

September 1948, 75 Years Ago

Old Timers Lose To Town Team By 15-13

Thurmont athletes ranged from 1908 vintage to present day baseball ganged up to draw better than a $100 benefit gate, Labor Day, when the Town Team of Frederick County League bested the Old Timers, 15-13, by a ninth-inning thriller.

Proceeds of the holiday, “father and son” game, were donated to John Strine, injured earlier in the season playing with the Thurmont nine.

                                – Frederick News, September 6, 1948

Maryland CFA Has Annual Meeting Sunday In Thurmont

Approximately thirty members of the Dan Rice Top, Maryland division of the circus fans association, and their friends met in Thurmont Sunday, September 12th for the annual state meeting.

Meeting chairman George W. Wireman, president of the Lou Jacobs Tent No. 44 of Thurmont arranged a most interesting program which included master of ceremonies, Congressman J. Glenn Beall, Melvin D. Hildreth, past president of CFA and charter member from Washington, D.C., Dr. Wm. Mann, director of the National Zoological Park in Washington, and Mrs. Leah Lanyon, creator of the popular Emmett Kelly and Lou Jacobs clown dolls.

                                – Frederick News, September 15, 1948

September 1973, 50 Years Ago

Aerosol Cans Blamed For Fire

Discarded aerosol cans are believed to be the cause of a fire in the former Gingel Quarry which Emmitsburg and Fairfield firemen were unable to extinguish.

Fairfield Fire Chief Lawrence E. Eversole said the firemen reported twice last Wednesday to the quarry off Route 16, east of Zora, and now owned by W. B. Shank and used as a dump. After pumping thousands of gallons of water into it, firemen decided that nothing could be done but let the blaze burn itself out. The two fire companies finally extinguished the blaze Monday morning.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 6, 1973

Town Receives Grant For Park

Acquisition of land south of West Main Street adjoining the corporate limits of Emmitsburg with a State grant of $80,520, is one of 3 park projects in Frederick County that have received funding from the State Program Open Space, as a result of action by the Board of Public Works, Governor Marvin Mandel has announced. The grant represents 100 per cent of the eligible project costs.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 20, 1973

September 1998, 25 Years Ago

Mount Upbeat About New Community Club

A record freshman class, the return of students for the fall semester and the start of an exciting new cultural club with the Emmitsburg area community has produced a decidedly upbeat feeling on the campus.

On Thursday evening, Sept. 3, Mount Saint Mary’s College President George Houston is hosting a party at the President’s House on Old Emmitsburg Road to kickoff the formation of the Mount Community Social Club, designed to engage members of the community from Gettysburg to Frederick and all areas in between to take part in cultural and academic activities offered by the school.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, September 1998

Dave Haller New Town Manager

David Haller resigned last month his newly elected position as a town commissioner to fill the town manager position vacated by Yvette Kreitz in June.

Mayor William Carr announced his selection for the job at the August 3 town meeting. Dr. Carr said about 40 applications for the position were reviewed. He felt the town was fortunate to get somebody with Haller’s qualification as well as having a town resident in the position. Mr. Haller has lived in Emmitsburg for the last 9 years.          

– The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, September 1998

ONCE UPON A TIME

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by James Rada, Jr.

August 1923, 100 Years Ago

County League Race Grows Exciting

The defeat of the hitherto unbeaten Thurmont ball club Intensifies the interest in the Frederick County League race. True, it gives the league leaders hut one defeat while Woodsboro and Mt. Airy, runners-up the pennant race, have each dropped two games. However, Thurm ont’s defeat has awakened hopes for pennant winning among four county towns: Mt. Airy, Woodsboro, Brunswick and Middletown.

Thurmont has one more game with both Woodsboro and Brunswick, both at Thurmont. To drop either game would cause Thurmont to finish the season with a tie with either club which won all its games, provided the pennant-chasers win all remaining games..

                                – Frederick News, August 3, 1923

Governor Makes Many Addresses

Governor Albert C Ritchie In Frederick county, Saturday afternoon and evening. His first address of the day was to the Democratic County Convention in Winchester Hall, this city. Later he delivered an address at the picnic at, Rocky Ridge, at the Harding Memorial exercises in Memorial Park, Thurmont, and at two church festivals, that of the Catholic church, Thurmont, and the festival at the Episcopal church, Catoctin Furnace.

About 2,000 people attended the picnic at Rocky Ridge. A literary and musical program was rendered. Music was furnished by the Yellow Springs band, Prof. Chas. C. T. Stull, director. The address of the afternoon was delivered by Governor Ritchie at about 3 o’clock. The picnic itself was adjudged the most successful held in recent years.

The exercises held by Thurmont in honor of the late President Warren G. Harding were held in Memorial Park in the evening at about 6:30 o’clock. They were held titular the auspices of the various denominations of Thurmont.

                                – Frederick News, August 13, 1923

August 1948, 75 Years Ago

Pearcey Asks Jury Trial

In a hearing this morning before Magistrate William J. Stoner in Thurmont, John Wesley Pearcey, 32, of Rocky Ridge, who was charged with two counts of alleged petty robberies, asked be tried before a jury while his attorney asked for an examination in the meantime to determine whether the accused man is insane. He was recommitted to jail after the hearing and bond was set at $3,000.

                                – Frederick News, August 4, 1948

Rites On Wednesday For Pfc. C. A. Rhodes

he remains of Pfc. Charles A. Rhodes, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Rhodes, Thurmont, arrived in Thurmont Friday evening at 6 o’clock. Pfc. Rhodes was killed in action at Abberstroff, France, on November 1, 1944. He served the Army in the Quartermaster Corps as a baker and after two years in Iceland was sent to France as an infantryman. He had served six years in the Regular Army and was 27 years of age at the time of his death.

                                – Frederick News, August 14, 1948

August 1973, 50 Years Ago

Local Man Stabbing Victim

A 42-year-old Emmitsburg man was stabbed three times with a knife Sunday night after an argument with his wife over a loaf of bread.

Charles William Cool was admitted to Frederick Memorial Hospital Monday for observation and is listed in satisfactory condition after he was treated for two stab wounds to the upper right chest and abdomen.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, August 23, 1973

Music Festival Here Sunday

Stouter’s Meadow will be the setting for the Catoctin Mountain .Country Music Festival this Sunday, August 1. Continuous music will be provided from 1 to 6 p.m. Those appearing will be: The Countrymen. Alan Brown and the Wishing Wells, Irene and the Country Rascals, J. D. and the In-Laws, The Country Ramblers, The Blue Ridge Partners and Sam Furgerson, Country Comedian.

The Festival is being held to benefit the Emmitsburg Fire Department. Admission is $2.00 in advance, 82.50 at the gate. Children under 12 years will be admitted free. For further ticket information, contact the Emmitsburg Police Department, 447-2312 or the Emmitsburg Fire Dept.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, August 28, 1973

August 1998, 25 Years Ago

Studio to Honor Fallen Fireman with Commemorative Photographs

Rosensteel Studio will be selling a special photograph to honor the memory of three Emmitsburg firemen who died in the line of duty.

The photograph, of which only 150 will be made, honors David Luther Copenhaver, who died in October 1997; Gregory Alan Hollinger, who died in January and Thomas Lawrence Topper, who died in February.

The photo shows ladder truck holding an American flag, raised over the town’s main street, and Chaplain Frank Kileline, who officiated at each funeral.

                                – Frederick News-Post, August 4, 1998

Commissioners Discuss Education

Education and economic development topped discussions Wednesday night at a town meeting held at Emmitsburg Elementary School with the Frederick County Commissioners.

It was the 20th such town meeting held by the commissioners as part of the county’s 250th celebration.

One of the main issues with Emmitsburg residents is “bringing more (Emmitsburg) children back to town,” said Mayor William Carr. He said the town hoped the school board would consider building a middle school in Emmitsburg, rather than bussing students to Thurmont.         

                                    – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, August 1998

ONCE UPON A TIME

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by James Rada, Jr.

July 1923, 100 Years Ago

Wreck Near Thurmont

All traffic on the Western Maryland Railroad between Hagerstown and Baltimore was at a standstill Monday afternoon, when 14 loaded freight cars were derailed and half a mile of track torn up a short distance from Thurmont. The cause of the wreck was due to a wheel on one of the freight cars breaking.

A wrecking crew from Hagerstown was immediately dispatched. The damage was not repaired until late Tuesday. The wreck is said to be one of the worst in the history of the railroad and the damage caused will amount to thousands of dollars. The regular evening passenger train due in Hagerstown from Baltimore was held up for more than three hours. Passengers going from Hagerstown to Baltimore over this route were transferred from one train to another on the opposite side of the wreck and were taken to the destination in this manner until the wreckage was cleared.

                                – Catoctin Clarion, July 11, 1923

Thurmont Merchant Ill

Robert A. Tyson, Thurmont dry goods merchant, became suddenly ill this morning about 8 o’clock while was in the postoffice. Mr. Tyson had apparently been in good health up to the time of his illness. He became unconscious and was taken to his store. Dr. E. C. Kefauver was summoned. Later in the day Mr. Tyson seemed to recover to a great extent and was removed to his home. His illness is not considered serious.

                                – Catoctin Clarion, July 11, 1923

July 1948, 75 Years Ago

Desire Was Alimony; Divorce Is Refused

The law of Maryland looks with disfavor on divorces where judicial permission to live apart is requested. Associate Judge Patrick M. Schnauffer said in an opinion filed Tuesday in Equity Court accompanied by an order dismissing a bill of complaint for a partial divorce.

The court pointed out the Mrs. Anna N. Ridenour, formerly of Thurmont and now of Waynesboro, Pa., said in her testimony before a court examiner, that alimony was her principal desire. She had asked for a partial divorce from Monroe W. Ridenour, Thurmont.

                                – Frederick News, July 14, 1948

Peach Crop Harvest Is Begun Here

The harvest of a peach crop which ranges from poor to good, depending on the locality has begun in Frederick County and the canning of a good green bean crop is under way at Thurmont, reports today indicated.

Peaches in this immediate locality still look very good, it is understood, while in the Thurmont section the crop is reported near failure from rot. In the vicinity of Mt. Airy, probably the largest peach section in this area, the crop is reported “just fair” and undergoing constant attack from Japanese beetles.

                                – Frederick News, July 29, 1948

July 1973, 50 Years Ago

Calif. Players Here Monday

Emmitsburg will play host next Monday night for a group of 12 and 13 year old all-star baseball players from Arcadia,California. They will compete against an Emmitsburg 12-13 year old all-star team in a game at Community Field beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The visitors belong to the Boy’s Christian League which makes tours around the country. Homes in the Emmitsburg area are needed in which to house the visiting boys from after the game Monday night until their departure Tuesday morning. Any family willing to provide an overnight home for one or any number of these visiting boys is asked to contact Gene Myers immediately so that arrangements can be made.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, July 12, 1973

Seton Center Has 6-Month Reprieve

Seton Center in Emmitsburg,recently threatened with loss of funding and possible closing, has a reprieve of at least six months. Until January 1, 1974, there will be no change in the HEW regulations which provide purchase of-care funds for about 40 children enrolled at the Center. The stay in implementation of the new guidelines, which were proposed last February, apparently resulted from a nationwide wave of indignation. Locally, friends of Seton Center bombarded officials with phone calls and letters to express their disapproval. It was charged that the proposed tightening of eligibility requirments for day care would actually increase the number of families on welfare. Many mothers would have to give up the job that kept the family financially afloat and stay home to care for the children.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, July 28, 1973

July 1998, 25 Years Ago

Teen Skaters Ask for Help from Town

This spring three local teenagers signed up to speak at our Emmitsburg Town Meeting. Avid rollerbladers and skateboarders, Kenny Gentile, Chris Rose and Ben Rose, spoke at the meeting expressing their frustration about how hard it was to rollerblade and/or skateboard in Emmitsburg.

Chris Rose, age 16, said they were chased away and hassled by store owners and residents. Some people even called the police. “We just wanted a place where we could go to skate,” says Chris Rose.

Business owners complained that the skaters were a nuisance and a safety hazard to customers. Residents expressed concern for the safety of the skaters fearing the boys would get hit by a car or hurt themselves skating.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, July 1998

Town Seeks New Manager

Former town manager Yvette Kreitz resigned and has accepted the position of Borough Manager of Littlestown, Pa. According to Krietz learning a new system will be challenging, “but, I was ready professionally to make a change.”

        Mrs. Krietz started out as a P&Z administrator, was promoted to coordinator of public works and eventually was named town manager.    

                                    – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, July 1998

Once Upon A Time

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by James Rada, Jr.

June 1923, 100 Years Ago

Fishing For Time

Richard and Isaac Garrish of Williamsport, Md., according to reports from that time, fished up 17 gold watches from the Potomac River last Thursday.

The brothers spend much time fishing and maintain a fishing camp below the bridge and it was while they were plying their art that they found the watches. …

… Messrs. Garrish believe that the watches were thrown into the water nearly a year ago. They now recall that one night last summer, while they were at their fishing camp, that an automobile stopped on the bridge and something was thrown overboard and they heard the splashes of objects hitting the water. They now feel that it was the watches which were cast away and that they have been in the water since that time, and that they were thrown away by robbers, who feared to longer keep them. The automobile passed over the bridge and into West Virginia

                                – Catoctin Clarion, June 28, 1923

Governor To Speak

The annual picnic at Rocky Ridge will be held in Mt. Tabor Park the second Saturday in August at which Hon. Albert C. Ritchie, Governor of Maryland, will be the guest of honor and deliver an address. He will also remain over for Sunday and speak at the great annual Sunday School mass meeting.

                                – Catoctin Clarion, June 28, 1923

June 1948, 75 Years Ago

Refuse From Storm Being Removed

Evidence accumulated today that a “twister” ripped through sections of Frederick and Carroll counties Saturday afternoon, damaging some barns and homes, uprooting trees, blocking side road and interrupting power and telephone service. There were no reports of injuries. …

… The freak blow evidently skipped over Thurmont to strike next in the Union Bridge-New Windsor-Johnsonville section. A barn roof on the farm of William Hobbs, this city, which is located near Union Bridge, was reported ripped loose and “lapped over.” It was a metal roof.

                                – Frederick News, June 15, 1948

Diplomas For 63 At Thurmont

The need to evolve morally and spiritually was emphasized by Dr. William Barnhart, head of the Hood College Department of Religion and Philosophy, in this address to 63 graduates of Thurmont High School on Thursday evening.

Speaking to the capacity-filled Thurmont Town Hall at 8:15 p.m., Dr. Barnhart, in part, said:

“The all important question in this atomic age is the question of Hamlet, “To be or not to be.” That has become the most important question for the whole of mankind. We are the first generation that can completely destroy ourselves. At the close of the First World War the younger generation was called the lost generation. If our present younger generation should be another lost generation it may be the last generation.”

                                – Frederick News, June 11, 1948

June 1973, 50 Years Ago

Firemen Schedule Donkey Baseball

The Vigilant Hose Co. has scheduled a donkey baseball game here on July 14 at 6:30 p.m. The local firemen will take on a team from the Fairfield Fire Company in a game that promises to be filled with laughs, thrills, spills and fun. The donkeys are owned by Shaw Bros. Sports Inc., of Sayre, Pa.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, June 21, 1973

Cozy Host To Soviet Personnel

The Cozy Motel in Thurmont was host to twenty or so Soviet support personnel during the Nixon – Brezhnev summit conference at Camp David last weekend. According to Jerry Freeze, operator of the Cozy complex, the Russians were there strictly on business and not as tourists. A dozen direct telephones were installed which tied into Camp David and a transportation system ferried the Russians up and down the mountain.

According to personnel at the Cozy Restaurant where the Soviet group ate three meals a day during their stay, the Soviets are great fanciers of seafood. The most popular entree during the week was the mixed seafood platter. Their preference ran to meat one meal, seafood the next. The guests also liked bananas, big steaks and Marlon Brando, according to Valerly I. Onikeyev, third secretary, permanent mission of the USSR to the United Nations, who served as coordinator between the Soviet staff members during their stay at the Cozy

Motel and personnel at Camp David.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, June 28, 1973

June 1998, 25 Years Ago

Citizens’ Memorial Dedicated

Commissioner Clifford Sweeney and chairmain of the Parks and Recreation Committee tells the Memorial Day gathering of Emmitsburg residents at the Citizens’ Memorial that his is a place where you can come “to sit and remember those who have given so much to the town.” The first three citizens to be honored with stone markers on the memorial are the late David L. Copenhaver, Gregory A. Hollinger, and Thomas L. Topper.

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, June 1998

Water Search Continues

The Town of Emmitsburg, under the direction of the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and BCM Engineers, Inc. (formerly Smith Environmental Technologies), has been actively pursuing the use of groundwater for the Town’s public drinking water supply.

Currently, the Town utilizes a combination of groundwater (three wells) and surface water (Rainbow Lake). Unfortunately, our present water treatment facility, which was built in the early 1960’s, has had difficulty processing our existing water demand, and cannot contend with the additional demands of a growing town. It is time to furnish a system that will take Emmitsburg into the future.

                        – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, June 1998

Once Upon A Time

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by James Rada, Jr

May 1923, 100 Years Ago

Boys’ Pig Club Formed

A boys’ pig club, the fifth in the county, was organized at Lewistown Tuesday night with the following officers: President, Conrad Graybill; vice-president, Russell Henry; secretary, George Palmer; local leader, Merle Ramsburg.

Six members were enrolled and two others who could not attend sent word they wish to be included as members. The meeting, held at Lewistown schoolhouse, was attended by a number of boys and several fathers and mothers.

                                – Catoctin Clarion, May 31, 1923

Purchased Broom Factory

The property of the Emmitsburg Broom Company, located at the southern edge of Emmitsburg, was sold at sheriff’s sale last Saturday to Dr M. A. Birely of Thurmont. This property consists of one-third of an acre of land and a two-story frame factory building 30×70 feet, containing broom-making machinery.

We do not know the doctor’s plans, but we hope he may see his way clear to move the plant to Thurmont.

                                – Catoctin Clarion, May 31, 1923

May 1948, 75 Years Ago

Bodies Of Vets Being Returned

The bodies of two Washington County area war veterans are being returned to this country aboard the Army transport, Albert M. Boe from the Pacific area.

The ship, docking at th San Francisco, will bring the bodies of: Pfc. Guy F. Robinson, Marines, next of kin, Mrs. Charlotte M. Robinson, Williamsport, Route 2, and Cpl. Gordon L. Pryor, Army, next of kin, Samuel P. Pryor, Thurmont.

                                – Hagerstown Morning Herald, May 17, 1948

Reporters’ Notebooks

Bob Ludwig thought it was just another camera enthusiast when he posed for a photo with his big trout caught at the Jungle Cocks annual gathering the other Saturday at Big Hunting Creek near Thurmont.

Then the cameraman identified himself as Pete Chambliss, who writes the popular column “Fisherman’s Luck,” which appears each Sunday in the Baltimore Sun. He told Ludwig to read the Sun the next day, which the local fisherman did and found himself featured in the column.

                                – Hagerstown Daily Mail, May 22, 1948

May 1973, 50 Years Ago

Official Opening Of Community Park Slated For This Sunday Afternoon

The Emmitsburg Community Park will be officially opened Sunday, May 6, 1973.

The dedication ceremonies will begin at 5:45 p.m. with Burgess Richard Sprankle, County Commissioner Donald Lewis and Parks and Recreation Commissioner E. Eugene Myers officiating. The official flag raising will be conducted by Boy Scouts from the Emmitsburg Troop.

At 6 p.m., the Emmitsburg Patriots and Freeman Shoe will meet in the first game to be played in the Northern Maryland Fastpitch Softball League. The game will be broadcast live on Radio Station WTHU.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, May 3, 1973

Art Work Of Catoctin Students Accepted For Display At Museum

Three students from the art department at Catoctin High School have had their work accepted for a show at the Baltimore Museum of Art. The 1973 Young Artists Talent Search is sponsored by the News American and is being held in conjunction with their 200 Bicentennial Celebration. The public exhibition will be held at the Baltimore Museum of Art, September 16-30, 1973.

The exhibit includes approximately 120 pieces of art representing three categories: fine art, commercial art, and photography. Students from Anne Arundel, Carroll, Frederick, Baltimore, Howard, Harford, and Washington counties were eligible to compete for a spot in the show.

The theme for this year’s show is “Our Many Views of Maryland.” Sandy Koontz, 16, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Koontz of Emmitsburg. Her presention was a wood cut print of a log cabin in the mountains. Cynthia Warthen, 17, is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Warthen, also of Emmitsburg. Her presentation was a water color of the mountains in spring. Robert Schildt, 16, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Schildt of Thurmont. Bob did a photograph taken in Detour during the flood.

                                – Emmitsburg Chronicle, May 31, 1973

May 1998, 25 Years Ago

Mayor Clarifies Action In School Proposal

The most recent meeting with the Frederick County Board of Education held on April 20th was attended by Emmitsburg commissioner Phil Postelle. It became apparent from the discussions that the Emmitsburg request to begin to bring middle school students back to the community would be defeated. In order to keep the issue open Commissioner Postelle decided to withdraw the proposal before a formal vote was taken by the BOE.

This move was a strategic withdrawal. We will continue the campaign of “Give us back our kids.”

                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, May 1998

Emmitsburg Citizens Memorial

The new Emmitsburg Citizens Memorial will be unveiled on Memorial Day as part of the Phase II kickoff in the Community Park. The Nature Trail will encircle the memorial and will consist of beautiful plantings from the Emmitsburg Garden Club. A rest area to sit and enjoy the wonderful view of the mountain and the memorial itself will be provided.

The first three citizens to be honored on the memorial are the late David L. Copenhaver, Gregory A. Hollinger and Thomas L. Topper.        

                        – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, May 1998

Once Upon A Time…

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by James Rada, Jr.

Note: Newspaper excerpts are as they appeared in their respective issues.

April 1923, 100 Years Ago

The Lock Unlocked

Nearly 2000 keys were brought into Sam Long’s store and tried in the lock on Easter Monday, but the key that unlocked the lock and secured the furniture was not presented until Tuesday evening.

Mr. H. J. Snead was the possessor of the only key that would open the lock.

The smallest number of keys held by any one person was 1; the largest number was 110.

A great deal of interest was shown in the contest.

Sam says he is going to repeat the stunt, and then it will be a set of furniture made by the Thurmont Manufacturing Company.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, April 5, 1923

Disposing of Refuse

Beginning April 15, the town authorities will begin the hauling of refuse and ashes. As in former years, citizens should cooperate by having their ashes and refuse at convenient places so that the driver can load without carrying.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, April 12, 1923

April 1948, 75 Years Ago

Safe in Bogota

Word by cable and telegram has been received by his sister Mrs. Sam Starbuck, Thurmont, that Paul R. Kelbaugh is safe in Bogota with the U. S. Delegation attending the Inter-American Conference.

– Frederick News, April 17, 1948

State Police Report Finding Missing Woman

State Police at LaVale Barracks reported last night that Mrs. Mary May Crock, 26, who has been missing from her home the past several days has been found in Thurmont.

Mrs. Crock resided in Bowman’s Addition and left home apparently for the purpose of going to a local bank to withdraw $1,200 for the purchase of a new automobile.

                                          – Cumberland News, April 22, 1948

April 1973, 50 Years Ago

Town Hears Detailed Report On Viking Ventures Proposed Resort

The Mayor, Commissioners, and members of the Planning and Zoning Commission met Tuesday night with Sheldon Erickson of Viking Ventures, Inc., regarding the proposed resort development to be built near the town. A group of sixteen citizens attended the meeting, most armed with questions and opinions.

In his presentation Mr. Erickson noted that the word “developer” had connotations that were in direct opposition to the Viking Ventures proposal. He noted that only about 4% of the 1,000 acres of land would be devoted to the physical plant and challenged the implication that this would degrade and deform the mountainside property. He stated that Viking Ventures, Inc., had received an attractive offer for their property from a developer who would like to subdivide it into building lots, but that was not what he felt the area deserved.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, April 5, 1973

Hearing On Route 15 Dualization

About 50 persons attended Tuesday night’s State Highway Administration hearing in Thurmont pertaining to the proposed dualization of U.S. Route 15 from Putnam Rd. north to the Pennsylvania State Line.

Thomas G. Mohler, district engineer for the SHA and Paul Mylash, assistant chief, Bureau of Special Services of the SHA, explained that U.S. 15 is being dualized because of the heavy volume of traffic now using the road.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, April 1, 1973

April 1998, 25 Years Ago

Community Center Rededicated

On Tuesday, March 24, approximately 150 people gathered for the Re-Opening Celebration of the Emmitsburg Community Center. The center, built in 1922 as a school, has recently undergone renovation to remove or abate hazardous materials and a construction upgrade to meet ADA standards by installing an elevator, additional bathrooms, and a new link between the old building and the auditorium.

To emphasize the connection between the building and the residents of the area, the new elevator addition was dedicated to Mary Higbee Hoke who has been associated with the building for seventy-five years as student, teacher, and champion of the library serving as librarian and as a member of the Library Advisory Board.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, April 1998

ECDC Visits North County

The Frederick County Economic and Community Development Commission met at Mount Saint Mary’s College on Wednesday, March 25, to hear presentations of economic and development concerns of the North Frederick County region. The commission, composed of business, civic, and government officials, is charged with oversight and promotion of the economic growth and development of Frederick County.

Marty Schillp, assistant to the president, Mount St. Mary’s College; Philip Postelle, Emmitsburg Town Commissioner; and Richard Mays, Clerk/Treasurer of the Town of Thurmont, presented overviews of their institutional and municipal plans and concerns.

                                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, April 1998

Once Upon a Time

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by James Rada, Jr.

March 1923, 100 Years Ago

Chloroform Destroyed

About 1000 cans of chloroform, seized by Federal agents because it was below standard, were destroyed Saturday by deputies from the office of W. W. Stockman, United States Marshal. The chloroform was said to be valued at approximately $10,000.

The cans were taken to a dump on Ridgely Street, Baltimore, where each can was opened with a hatchet and the contents poured out.

About 700 cans, seized at Hagerstown and other county towns, were destroyed earlier in the week.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, March 29, 1923

Ring Off

We have just come from an attempted conversation over the telephone. **!!?-**!-‘!!

We were receiving information for publication when—bur-r-r goes the phone in our ear, a third party removes the receiver and listens to our very polite “line’s busy.” Mr. Third Party immediately “hangs up” and – bur-r-r-r-r-r- again he hears our polite explanation that the “line’s busy.” T. P. “hangs up” again and immediately—bur-r-r-r-r-

Our explanation of “line’s busy” became less polite as the unwarranted rudeness of Mr. T. P. continued until we finally called a recess of 15 minutes in order to permit the rude and ill-bred Mr. T. P. to inquire the price of bathing suits in Iceland.

The telephone porker is one of the species that is protected by the S. P. C. A. Too bad—too bad!

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, March 29, 1923

March 1948, 75 Years Ago

Charter Night Of Thurmont Lions Is Held

Approximately 150 members and guests were dined and entertained Tuesday evening at the nineteenth charter and ladies’ night of Thurmont Lions Club. Nine charter members were introduced and had a carnation pinned upon them by the wife of the district governor.

                                          – Frederick News, March 10, 1948

Citizens’ Meeting Is Sparsely Attended

Thurmont officials were rather disappointed Tuesday night when but few of the citizens attended a special meeting of the Commissioners, called to discuss matters considered of importance to all of the residents. Citizens in attendance were few and far between, the officials said. The round-table discussion centered largely around the operation of parking meters. Businessmen in attendance expressed the general belief that the meters have benefitted business in the town. Voices were divided as to whether the meter fee should be charged after 6 o’clock in the evening on week-days. The meters are in service now to 8 p.m. on week-days and to 9 p.m. on Saturdays.  

                                          – Frederick News, March 24, 1948

March 1973, 50 Years Ago

Donkey Ball Comes To Catoctin

Donkey Ball, the world’s craziest sport, comes to Catoctin High School on Saturday, March 10. This basketball game played from the backs of trained Donkeys, is re[p]uted to be wilder than a rodeo and funnier than a circus.

For the game the Booster Club has obtained the services of the nationally known Buckey Donkey Ball Co., Columbus, Ohio.

All local riders will be used for the exhibition and the local players have gone into serious training for the big event. The Booster Club, who will compete, have announced that the players are on strict diet of Mothers Oats and raw carrots.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 1, 1973

Resort Development Rumors Confirmed By County Board

Rumors of a resort development in the Emmitsburg area were confirmed by the County Board of Appeals Tuesday. Viking Ventures, whose president is Sheldon G. Erickson, has applied for a permit to construct a building of 250,000 square feet.

The resort will include 325 units or rooms, restaurant, golf course, tennis courts swimming pool and conference rooms.

The proposed $11 million development is on the north side of Hampton Valley Road, a 1,000 acre parcel which adjoins Emmitsburg just north of the Mount and stretches north to Charnita. A public hearing on the proposed development is scheduled for March.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 1, 1973

March 1998, 25 Years Ago

Mayor Carr Seeks Third Term

Emmitsburg Mayor William H. Carr announced this week his intention to seek a third term as mayor of Emmitsburg in the upcoming April town election.

“The town is beginning to ‘turn the corner’ and I would like to see some of the important projects through to completion,” said Carr.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, March 1998

Library Volunteers Recognized for Long and Productive Service

Members of the library staff, library advisory board, and volunteers gathered in February to salute and honor the service of three significant people associated with the Emmitsburg Library: Mary Hoke, Sheila Chatlos, and Francis Smith.

…Mary Hoke is being honored for serving the Emmitsburg library for 68 years of service; as librarian, secretary/treasurer, and treasurer of the Library Board.… Sheila Chatlos became associated with the Library Board in 1961 serving as secretary until her retirement in 1997…. “You have to be careful not to miss meetings,” said retiring president Francis Smith. “Ten years ago, I missed the second meeting of my association with the library and was elected president.”

                                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, March 1998

Once upon a time

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by James Rada, Jr.

Note: Newspaper excerpts are as they appeared in their respective issues.

February 1923, 100 Years Ago

Another Piece Gone

Last Thursday Mr. Ross Eigenbrode got the index finger of his left hand in the way of a running saw at the plant of the Thurmont Manufacturing Company and was relieved of a part of the first joint. Some few months ago the jointer at the same factory, and on the same hand, amputated the first joint of his little finger.

Mr. Eigenbrode says that he hopes to become accustomed to these operations in time. If he does become so, he is liable to form the habit and by the time he had finished his span of mortal life he will have been pretty thoroughly pruned.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, February 1, 1923

New Bowling Alley

Mr. D. R. Rouzer has started work on the foundation of a building in which will be placed a bowling alley. The structure will occupy the entire driveway between the Mackley Building and Mr. Rouzer’s property now occupied by Mr. R. A. Tyson.

          The building will be one story in height, the front to contain the shaving parlor of Mr. Quinn J. Florence, and the bowling alley in the rear.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, February 1, 1923

February 1948, 75 Years Ago

Final Rites For Soldiers At Thurmont

Final services for Sgt. Hanson S. Sauble and Pfc Austin C. Reed who died in action in the siege of St. Lo, and whose bodies arrived home this week for re-interment, were held at the funeral home in Thurmont, Thursday afternoon.

                                          – Frederick News, February 20, 1948

Traffic Is Stalled By Icy Roads

…The star route mail truck between Baltimore and Thurmont, which transfers mail for Frederick to Hagerstown and Frederick to the Hagerstown and Frederick Railway at Thurmont, slid from the road near New Windsor and post office officials here had no idea at mid-morning when the mail might reach here. The trolley service to Thurmont was maintained without interruption.            

                                          – Frederick News, February 12, 1948

February 1973, 50 Years Ago

Town Drops Property Ownership Requirement

According to the resolution unanimously passed by the Burgess and Commissioners Monday night, persons wishing to run for election as town officials will no longer be required to own property in the town. (The full text of the resolution appears elsewhere in this paper). According to the Town Attorney, Frederick J. Bower, the new regulation brings the town into line with recent court decisions prohibiting such requirements. Those wishing to be elected to town offices must have been a resident for one year prior to their election and must reside inside town boundaries during their terms of office.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, February 8, 1973

Thousands Brave Cold To Attend Winter Festival

Nearly 10,000 visitors braved the below-freezing temperatures Saturday and Sunday to attend the Winter Festival. Sponsored by the Catoctin Mountain Tourist Council and Catoctin Mountain Park, the Festival was highly successful in spite of the small amount of snow.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, February 15, 1973

February 1998, 25 Years Ago

VHC Bids Farewell To Colleague

On West Main Street, Towers 6 and 1 formed an Aerial Arch under which the funeral procession of Greg Hollinger passed as the bell on Tower 6 tolled in respect. Greg, age 43, an active member of the Vigilant Hose Company for 24 years, died Jan. 20, at his home.

“The outpouring of support from both the community and the emergency services throughout the region was simply outstanding,” said Wayne Powell, VHC Information Officer. “Greg was well-liked and committed to the safety and well-being of those he served in the greater Emmitsburg Community.”

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, February 1998

Emmitsburg Election Set For April 21

At the January town meeting Commissioner Phil Postelle announced that the elections for mayor (currently held by William H. Carr) and commissioners’ seats (currently held by Rosario Benvengi and Christopher Weaver) will be held April 21, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the town office.

Residents wishing to file for candidacy must do so in writing at the town office before 12:00 noon on April 9, 1998.

                                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, February 1998

Once Upon A Time

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by James Rada, Jr.

January 1923, 100 Years Ago

Typewriters Stolen

On Monday night thieves forced an entrance into the office of the H. M. Spahr Breeding Estate, on the State Road, a few miles south of Thurmont, and took there from three typewriters.

Nothing else about the building was disturbed. The machines were No. 10 Royal, their numbers were X188572, X272745 and X 242191. No clue was left whereby identification might be brought about.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, January 25, 1923

Hunger Strike

Four hundred students of Western Maryland College, Westminster, went on a “hunger strike” recently. The cause of the trouble was dissatisfaction with the “grub.” The last straw was added on Saturday evening, January 13, when “pickled souse” was served at supper. The students claimed that the “cooking” was not up to the mark, and that the menu read better than it tasted. The differences have been adjusted, however, and everybody eats and is happy.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, January 25, 1923

January 1948, 75 Years Ago

Eyler Real Estate Sold for $17,750

Three parcels of land in the Thurmont district, totaling less than 100 acres and including three dwellings were sold at auction Friday noon for $17,750. Calvin Lohr, agent for O. Ruth, Joseph H., Charles William Eyler and Mary Jane Diffenderfer, announced last night through John W. Null, auctioneer.

                                          – Frederick Post, January 3, 1948

Dr. Swearingen Wounds Self at Thurmont

Dr. Frank V. Swearingen, prominent Thurmont dentist was in a serious condition at Frederick Memorial Hospital from gunshot wounds Sunday night as State Police and County authorities began an investigation.

Dr. Swearingen was removed to the hospital early Sunday morning after he was said to have shot himself in the abdomen with a shot gun at his residence.           

                                          – Frederick Post, January 12, 1948

January 1973, 50 Years Ago

New Pastor for St. Anthony’s

The Rev. Edward T. Sargus, Pastor for the last ten years of St. Stephen’s Church, Bradshaw, Maryland, has been appointed by His Eminence Lawrence Cardinal Shehan as Pastor of St. Anthony’s Shrine, Emmitsburg, succeeding the Rev. Vincent J. Tomalski, who is retiring after 18 years as Pastor of St. Anthony’s.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, January 11, 1973

Town to Have New Signal Lights

The Council discussed parking problems, the need for more stop signs and problems concerning the parking meters. Plans from the Traffic Division concerning new traffic lights to be installed in the town were discussed. The State has agreed to pay for these lights at a cost of $11,000.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, January 14, 1973

January 1998, 25 Years Ago

EBPA Calls for Participants in Planning Fall Festival

A small group from the Emmitsburg Business and Professional Assoc. met recently to begin the planning for the new Mason-Dixon Fall Festival scheduled for Oct. 3 and 4, 1998.

“We are inviting all who reside in and around the historic Emmitsburg area to participate in the planning of the festival,” said EBPA president Bob Gauss. “We’ll be meeting Jan. 14, 7 p.m., at the Gourmet Grill and urge individuals or groups who want to participate to bring their creative ideas and energy.”

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, January 1998

Proposed Crossing for Tom’s Creek

The Frederick County Commissioners asked the Department of Public Works to investigate the need for a low-water crossing of Tom’s Creek that would accommodate large farm equipment. A low-water crossing at Dern Road was proposed at that time..

                                                – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, January 1998

Once Upon A Time…

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by James Rada, Jr.

December 1922, 100 Years Ago

Unusual

Handing a clerk a one dollar gold piece in payment for a cone of ice cream is not often done, but it did occur here in Thurmont recently. The child evidently did not know the value of the coin, and the clerk interviewed the proprietor to learn if the coin was money, and good, before accepting it. The purchaser was given the change and departed happy.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, December 7, 1922

Ice Plant For Emmitsburg

There is a strong possibility that Emmitsburg will have a new industry here next year. Several out-of-town parties were in the neighborhood during the past week looking over the field with a view of establishing an ice manufacturing plant in this section. These people are experts in the ice business and have several plants in other parts of Maryland. The purpose of their visit was not in the nature of looking for investors but to see some of the leading citizens of the town as to the prospects and if such a plant was needed and would be a paying proposition.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, December 7, 1922

December 1947, 75 Years Ago

Thurmont Likes Foxville Road

Expressing appreciation to the Board of County Commissioners and the County Roads Board for completion of the highway from Foxville to Thurmont, which opened a new all-surfaced road to Hagerstown, Thurmont residents learned last week that the surfacing of a road from Garfield to Foxville has been approved for construction in 1948.

                                          – Frederick Post, December 15, 1947

Stuffing Turkeys With High Price Grain Is Making Little Profit For County’s Growers, They Claim

If all the turkeys raised in Frederick county this year were consumed within the confines of the county, each of us would have to eat more than a half of one.

Between 30 and 35 thousand turkeys will have been sent to market by the time you clean the last bone of your Christmas bird, the men who market the most of them estimate. About 95 percent of that total come from Frederick county’s growing turkey production center around Thurmont.   

                                          – Frederick Post, December 20, 1947

December 1972, 50 Years Ago

St. Joseph College Offers 200-Acre Campus For Lease

St. Joseph College formally announced plans today to offer its 200 acre campus for leasing following the graduation of the class of 1973. The announcement was made in an advertisement in the national edition of the Wall Street Journal.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, December 14, 1972

Wildlife Officer Ray Toms Honored

Wildlife Officer Ray Toms of Emmitsburg, was singled out for praise Friday evening by Shikar Safari International, a prominent hunter-conservationist organization. The occasion was the sixth annual banquet of the Potomac Valley Fly Fishermen, held at Walton’s Family Restaurant in Frederick.

Earlier this year Toms was selected by the Southeastern Association of Fish and Game Commissioners as Maryland’s outstanding wildlife officer for 1972. It was in recognition of this that Ed Boyd of St. Michaels, Md., traveled to Frederick last Friday evening to attend the local fly fisher’s banquet and there awarded a plaque and check to Ray on behalf of Shikar Safari.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, December 14, 1972

December 1997, 25 Years Ago

Local Cemeteries Damaged

Nearly 50 markers were tipped over or broken (at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church cemetery). In the same night, some 20 tombstones were damaged at the Elias Lutheran Church on E. Main St.

Early estimates marked the loss at a cost of well over $5,000.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, December 1997

Extended Elementary School Proposed to BOE

The Emmit Ridge subdivision will be a topic of discussion for the Emmitsburg town council at the January 5th town meeting. The subdivision is located in the northern section of town adjacent to Irishtown Road. The project was planned in three phases with the third phase providing an access road connecting to Irishtown Road. Currently, the only access to Emmit Ridge is through the neighboring Northgate subdivision entrance. According to the original plans, the developers cannot begin phase three until prior phases are complete and thirty-three homes are built. To date, just three homes have been completed in the first phase. In the meantime, the original plan time limits have expired. At its Dec. 1 town meeting the commissioners voted to reinstate the final plats for Emmits Ridge Subdivision for one year, but change the phasing to require Phases II and III to be developed simultaneously. They also called for the development of Irishtown Road immediately after the completion of Phase I.

– The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, December 1997

Once Upon A Time

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by James Rada, Jr.

November 1922, 100 Years Ago

Rev. Waltemyer Resigns

Rev. W. C. Waltemyer, who for the past seven years has been pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Thurmont, has handed his resignation to the Council of the church, the same to be effective January 1st, 1923. The members of the Council were reluctant to consider the resignation, as he is unusually well thought of in his congregation.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, November 2, 1922

S.S. Parade in Frederick

Nearly 3,000 men, representing practically every district in the county, marched Sunday afternoon in the Sixth Annual Sunday School Parade in Frederick City, the biggest religious demonstration made up entirely of men, of this county’s history.

Perfect weather conditions helped swell the number of paraders and the crowds which lined the sidewalks for many squares. The parade was 40 minutes passing a given point.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, November 26, 1922

November 1947, 75 Years Ago

Thurmont Lions Sponsor Trip

As the mother of 24 children, twelve of whom are still living, Mrs. Charles H. Clarke hasn’t had time to leave her home in Thurmont, during the past twenty years. In fact, she has never traveled out of her native State in all the 52 years of her life.

Next week, however, she will take a trip to California to have a chance to fulfill her “heart’s desire”—on a national radio program.

Mrs. Clarke is being sent by the Lions Club of Thurmont and other sponsoring organizations whose members think it’s about time that she see more of the world.

“I’m not going to worry about anything,” she says, “I’ve had so many troubles and worries with my many children over the years that the trip won’t upset me.”

                                          – Frederick News, November 22, 1947

Dr. Lyons Outlines TB Treatment For District Nurses

Dr. I. B. Lyon, Sabillasville, gave an illustrated talk on “The Latest Aspects of the Treatment of Tuberculosis,” at the meeting of the District No. 1, Maryland State Nurses Association last night at the Allegany Hospital Nurses Home.

Dr. Lyon listed three forms of treatment, the first he said is rest, which he said is still the best. The second is the use of streptomycin, one of the newest drugs. He explained that so far the extent of its use is not known, but said that in certain types of tuberculosis it has been very effective, especially in caseous types.

Plastic surgery was listed by the speaker as the third form of treatment. He said this includes surgical removal of the ribs and the use of oleothorax and pneumothorax, depending on whether oil or air in the pleural cavity is desired.

                                     – Cumberland News, November 26, 1947

November 1972, 50 Years Ago

Potomac Edison Warns Hunters

With the opening of hunting seasons in the area, The Potomac Edison Company has issued an appeal to hunters to “avoid using power line insulators for target practice.” Citing several recent cases of serious damage to lines and interruption of electric service to customers, a PE spokesman reminded sportsmen that “shooting into the air with a rifle is dangerous enough, but aiming at insulators is worse—it’s illegal.”

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, November 2, 1972

Town Approves Annexation Of Emmit-Ridge; Plans To Buy More Ground

At their meeting Monday night, the Town Council formally adopted a resolution calling for the annexation of Emmit-Ridge on the Irishtown Road. The property, which is comprised of approximately 17 ½ acres, is the proposed site for 190 housing units. The property will become part of the town unless 20 percent of the town’s registered voters should request a referendum.

Mayor Sprankle informed the council that Charles Koontz was willing to sell the town nine acres of land which he owns below the present town reservoir on the Koontz property that would be of considerable help in taking care of the town’s water problems. The Council agreed to purchase the property.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, November 9, 1972

November 1997, 25 Years Ago

Town Mourns Death of Commissioner

The sudden death of David Luther Copenhaver has left a great sadness and a void in the community.

Mr. Copenhaver, 49, of East Main Street, died Tuesday, Oct. 28 at his residence. He was the husband of Velma Marie Reaver Copenhaver.

Funeral services were held Friday, Oct. 31, at Mount St. Mary’s College Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, November 1997

Extended Elementary School Proposed to BOE

Over 200 parents, grandparents, and caregivers attended the Oct. 23 town meeting to hear presentations and discussion about the future of students in Emmitsburg schools. The meeting was a follow-up to a previous meeting which carried the same theme: “Give us back out kids.” The purpose of these efforts is to reduce the flow of students out of the community and to reestablish a school in Emmitsburg for children from kindergarten to the eighth grade.

In his opening remarks Emmitsburg Mayor William Carr urged the townspeople and the attending members of the Frederick County Board of Education and the County Commissioners to “look to the future and work in partnership” in resolving concerns about the development and placement of elementary and middle schools in the Northern Frederick County region.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, November 1997

Once Upon A Time

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by James Rada, Jr.

October 1922, 100 Years Ago

Mule Kicked Him

Last week Mr. George Stevens, of Creagerstown, got too close to the heels of one of his mules, and said mule “busted him one” on the point of the jaw. Mr. Stevens says he had stooped over for some reason or other and evidently touched the mule on the hind leg. He received an ugly cut on the chin, but otherwise escaped injury.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, October 12, 1922

First Auto Races at Frederick

The six racing events last Saturday, under the auspices of the International Motor Contest Association, was the first auto racing held in Frederick and its popularity was evidenced by the large crowd present. Seven registered, professional, dirt track drivers were entered and some clever machine handling was seen. Cash prizes totaling $2,500 were given the winners.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, October 26, 1922

October 1947, 75 Years Ago

Man is Charged with Attack on Hospital Nurse

Charles Lester Jones, 34, Hagerstown, said to have a lengthy criminal record, was in jail in Hagerstown Wednesday night under $2,000 bond on several assault charges as the result of a State Police investigation of an alleged assault on a nurse’s aid and the chief engineer at the new State chronic disease hospital at Camp Ritchie Tuesday night.

                                          – Frederick News, October 22, 1947

Minister Leaving Jefferson Charge

Rev. Edwin L. Werner, pastor of Jefferson-Feagaville charge of Evangelical and Reformed church, has tendered his resignation in order to become pastor of St. Andrew’s church at Philadelphia, Pa. The resignation was submitted at a meeting of the Consistory on Tuesday night.

Rev. Mr. Werner has held pastorates in Frederick County for a total of seven years, first coming to Sabillasville, and later two years at Jefferson.

                                     – Frederick News, October 27, 1947

October 1972, 50 Years Ago

Graceham Church To Celebrate 214th Anniversary Sunday; Dedicate Memorial

On Sunday, October 8, at 3 p.m., the Moravian Church of Graceham, Md., will be celebrating its 214th Anniversary and dedicating the Huebener Christian Education Memorial. Preceeding the service a brass quartet will play traditional American and German Chorale tunes.

The Congregation was organized in 1758 and through the years some structural changes have taken place; however, recently the Christian Education wing has been redecorated and certain parts restored. Among other things the restoration included the discovery of three fireplaces.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 5, 1972

William Sanders Knight Of The Year

William Sanders, Sr., was awarded the 15th annual Knight of the Year Award at the Brute Council 1860 Knights of Columbus “Knight of the Year” dinner-dance, held last Saturday evening at the VFW in Emmitsburg.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, October 12, 1972

October 1997, 25 Years Ago

Town To Meet With BOE, BOCC to Press for Middle School Return

A follow-up meeting regarding the erosion of Emmitsburg’s elementary school population and the possibilities of regaining its middle school will be held at the Emmitsburg Elementary School on Oct. 23, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting was scheduled as a result of this community’s request “to give us back our kids.”

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1997

Interfaith Housing Location Challenged

At the Town’s Public Workshop held September 16 at the VFW, residents of the Silo Hill neighborhood expressed overwhelming opposition to the development of an affordable housing community next to their subdivision.

The housing project is being planned by Interfaith Housing of Western Maryland, a nonprofit organization created by the religious community of Western Maryland. There are currently five Interfaith Housing projects located within Frederick County.

“As noble as the cause may be, take it somewhere else,” was the message given to Peter Dean, project manager, by many of the residents. “We’re not rejecting what you’re proposing,” one resident said, “but feel it is just the wrong location.” A decrease in their property value was the main concern of the residents.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, October 1997

Once Upon A Time

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by James Rada, Jr.

September 1922, 100 Years Ago

Presented Bat

Mr. Russell Rouzer and Dr. E. B. Sefton, of Hagerstown, yesterday presented the Thurmont Baseball Club with a new bat to aid in the defeat of Woodsboro.

By the way! The new bat was broken during the game; Ed and Russell say there will be another to take its place next Saturday.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, September 14, 1922

Cut The Corner Again

Last Sunday evening, a car coming south on the State Road at the northern edge of town came to grief by “cutting the corner”. At the sharp turn on the road at the Lohr homestead the driver crossed to the left side of the road to make the turn to the left. As frequently happens in these times there was another machine on the road, and in order to avoid this unexpected apparition, he was compelled to suddenly “get back where he belonged,” and in doing so struck a culvert and was wrecked. Fortunately nobody was hurt.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, September 21, 1922

September 1947, 75 Years Ago

Funeral Rites This Afternoon

Omer J. Dubel, Mayor of Thurmont, died at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, late Friday evening following an illness of several months, aged 49 years.

He was a son of the late Tyson and Amanda Delauter Dubel, of Myersville. Mr. Dubel was very active in community affairs, having at the time of his death been serving his third term as Mayor of Thurmont and fire chief of the Guardian Hose Co., of which organization he was president for a number of years.

                                          – Frederick News, September 22, 1947

Woman Beaten By Holdup Man At Thurmont

State Police early today were maintaining roadblocks on all principal highways in this area in an effort to apprehend the man who slugged Mrs. George Kline in her place of business near Thurmont shortly after 11 o’clock last night and fled the scene with the cash she was counting when knocked unconscious.

Mrs. Kline remained under a physician’s care at her home as State Police broadcast descriptions of the assailant that the victim was able to supply.

                                     – Frederick News, September 27, 1947

September 1972, 50 Years Ago

St. Joseph College Announces Plans To Lease Campus And Facilities

Plans for the disposition of the St. Joseph College campus property following its closing in the summer of 1973, are proceeding on schedule according to Sister Margaret Dougherty, president of the 163-year-old Emmitsburg college for women.

          …

The college plans to lease the 200-acre campus and its facilities. “Under an ideal set of circumstances, sale of the property may be considered,” Sister Margaret stated, “but at the present time, that option is highly unlikely.”

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 7, 1972

Coffee House To Open On Square

A new thing is happening in Emmitsburg. Beginning September 23, a coffee house, the “House of Shalom”, will be co-sponsored by the Emmitsburg Council of Churches and Christianity on the Move. This FREE coffee house will be held in the Senior Citizens Center on the Square for the youth of the area every other Saturday.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, September 21, 1972

September 1997, 25 Years Ago

State Highway Officials Agree To Move Speed Sign

At a public workshop held August 21 at the VFW officials from the State Highway Administration agreed to adjust signs at the intersection of Silo Hill Drive and Route 140 to slow down traffic entering Emmitsburg. They will relocate the 25 mph sign, now located west of the intersection, to a spot east of Silo Hill Drive where drivers will see it soon after crossing the Route 15 overpass.

That decision was made even though the officials don’t think it will work. “People ignore signs and pushing the 25 mph sign out of the overpass will not solve it,” said Robert Fisher, District Engineer for SHA. “They will still come in at 40 mph. You can’t set unrealistic speed limits.”

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, September 1997

Proposed Equestrian Center Focuses on Emmitsburg

Owners of a proposed equestrian center have made inquiries about locating in the Emmitsburg area.

The Emmitsburg site is considered convenient to horse-related activities in Northern Virginia, Central Maryland, and Southern Pennsylvania. Its close proximity to the Gettysburg National Battlefield, ski resorts, and family-oriented recreational areas make Emmitsburg a desirable location.

Bart and Pamela Bartholomew, owners of the Whispering Hollow Equestrian Center, Forest Hills, Md., and the proposed Emmitsburg Equestrian Center see the center as a place that will have “everything a horse person could want and then some.”

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, September 1997

Once Upon a Time

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by James Rada, Jr.

August 1922, 100 Years Ago

Want Bank At Summit

A movement to start a bank at Blue Ridge Summit near the Frederick and Washington county line has been launched by certain business men of the vicinity, including a number of Baltimoreans who have homes at the resort during the summer, and a meeting for the purpose of starting the preliminary organization was held Friday evening. Dr. Stanley, of Baltimore presided over the meeting and explained the project.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, August 31, 1922

“Booze Powders” Declared Frauds

Home brewers and anti-Volsteadeans, beware the “booze powder”, is the warning sent broadcast by the Post Office Department in a recent circular. For stemming a tide-of “dehydrated” alcoholic beverages of reminiscent names is a steady job of the fraud section of the department.

Using the reputation of German chemists certain German concerns have distributed hundreds of thousands of circulars in the United States, offering for “one dollar only, Rhine wine, Moselle, Sherry, Port, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Tokay, Munich beer, Pilsner, Porter ale, etc.,” in a dried form say the Post Office Department. From the powder a gallon or two of the beverages indicated on the package can be made, the spurious circulars claim.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, August 31, 1922

August 1947, 75 Years Ago

Family Reunion Is Held At Mt. Tabor

On July 27 the Conrad Smith reunion was held at Mt. Tabor Park, Rocky Ridge, for the second annual meet since 1940, which recessed due to war conditions at that time. There were 138 members present.”

                                          – Frederick News, August 5, 1947

Many Jobs Of Roads Board Under Way

Federal aid construction jobs are progressing rapidly and L. R. Waesche and Son have completed the LeGore-Rocky Ridge road while the M. J. Grove Company is making rapid progress on paving the road that will connect Johnsville with New Midway.

                                     – Frederick News, August 29, 1947

August 1972, 50 Years Ago

Mount Saint Mary’s Readies For Coed Opening; Has Record Enrollment

Mount Saint Mary’s College, with 128 women comprising a large segment of a record enrollment, will begin its first year as a coed college next week.

According to Registrar Guy A. Baker, Jr., over 1,200 students are expected to register for the 1972-73 academic year, surpassing last year’s all-time high of 1150. Of this total, 98 women will be living on campus, making this the first resident coed enrollment in the Mount’s 165 year history.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, August 24, 1972

Lions Discuss Town Mail Delivery

The Emmitsburg Lions Club held its regular meeting Monday, August 14, with Acting President Norman Flax presiding. The club discussed the feasibility requesting door to door mail service in Emmitsburg. It was pointed out that such service is dependent upon having sidewalks throughout the town and correct house numbers.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, August 24, 1972

August 1997, 25 Years Ago

Garden Club Celebrates 40th Anniversary

The Silver Fancy Garden Club celebrated 40 years of membership in the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland with a luncheon on July 17 at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Taneytown.

The club, whose members are from the Emmitsburg-Taneytown area, was organized in 1954 and federated July 18, 1957. Today it has 20 active members, six associate members, and two honorary members.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, August 1997

Dot Davis and The Palms Reunited

The Palms Restaurant recently welcomed the return of co-owner Dot Davis to its busy kitchen. Ms. Davis, a well known resident of Emmitsburg, stated she is happy to be involved again in the day-to-day operations of the business. The restaurant has been in existence for thirty-five years, making it a landmark of the downtown area. The Davis family has maintained ownership in the restaurant since 1962.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, August 1997

Once Upon A Time

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July 1922, 100 Years Ago

Phones Out

The storms of Saturday and Sunday played havoc with the telephone service in Thurmont. That of Saturday put a number of phones out of commission, and Sunday’s storm did still greater damage. They are being rapidly restored to usefulness.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, July 6, 1922

Emmitsburg Now Under A Second Class Ruling

The volume of mail handled at the Emmitsburg postoffice for the past year, due in a large measure to the large enrollments at the two institutions—Mount St. Mary’s and St. Joseph’s Colleges—has advanced the standing from a third class to a second class office. This new arrangement went into effect July 1st. With this change, the office will now be under civil service and from a district postoffice, Emmitsburg will come under the head of a direct accounting postoffice.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, June 1, 1922

July 1947, 75 Years Ago

Wild Dogs In Mountains

County authorities planned to leave this afternoon to seek extermination of a pack of wild dogs reported to be operating in the vicinity of Camp Airy, in the mountains near Thurmont. There was a report that one of the dogs had bitten a child in that section. The pack was reported as “vicious.”

                                          – Frederick News, July 22, 1947

Woman Fined After Wreck

Found guilty of reckless driving in connection with an accident near the State Sanatorium, at Sabillasville on June 17, in which four persons were injured. Mrs. Bessie R. Porter, Baltimore, was fined $10 and costs by Magistrate William J. Stoner in Thurmont Thursday.

A car driven by Mrs. Porter and a truck in which three residents of near Thurmont were riding, collided on Route 81. The truck turned over on the side and the driver, Herbert Biser, 18; his brother, Walter, 15, and Joseph Royer, 13, were so severely injured that they were hospitalized at Waynesboro, Pa. Royer had about 20 stitches taken in a head wound.

                                     – Frederick News, July 23, 1947

July 1972, 50 Years Ago

Littering Will Close Recreation Areas

It has been brought to the attention of the Mayor and Commissioners that abuse, especially by means of littering, is becoming more evident at Rainbow Lake and other town properties. At Rainbow Lake where fishing is allowed, a permit must be secured, either from the Police Department or at the Town Office. Should littering as well as vandalism continue, the area will be restricted from public use. In the meantime, the local police will check the area more frequently for such offenders.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, July 13, 1972

Sixes Dam Would Help Flood Control

State Senator Edward J. Mason has asked a U.S. Senate Public Works subcommittee to consider the possibility of including flood control capabilities in the proposed Sixes Bridge Dam in an effort to avert another flood disaster of the magnitude recently witnessed in Frederick and Carroll Counties.

Mason, Republican nominee for the Sixth District Congress, asked U.S. Senator B. Everett Jordan, chairman of the flood controls, rivers and harbors subcommittee, in a letter to consider the flood control possibility during hearings on the needs for the proposed Potomac River Basin dam.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, July 13, 1972

July 1997, 25 Years Ago

County Officials Get An Earful at Town’s School Meeting

Emmitsburg residents and town officials made it very clear at the meeting June 12 with two Frederick County school system officials and two Frederick County Commissioners that they want their children to go to school in their hometown. Mayor William Carr, members of the Emmitsburg School Committee, and a number of residents spoke before Mark Hoke, president of the Board of County Commissioners, Commissioners Ilona Hogan, school Superintendent Jack Dale, and Raymond Barnes, executive director of planning and facilities for Frederick County public schools, at the meeting held in the Emmitsburg Elementary School gymnasium.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, July 1997

Mary Rohrbaugh Retires

Mary Rohrbaugh parked her bus and slipped into retirement, “at the top of my game,” she said. She began driving a school bus 44 years ago and drove an estimated 900,000 miles for Frederick County Public Schools, starting when her dad Clarence E. Hahn was a contractor. “Your duty performance has been nothing less than superb over the years,” said H. Michael Deener, transportation manager of FCPS, in his congratulatory remarks at the Bus Drivers banquet. “Your manner is worthy of emulation by others [drivers] and your safety record will be difficult to match.”

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, July 1997

Once Upon A Time

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June 1922, 100 Years Ago

Union Bridge Bank Closes Temporarily

The doors of the First National Bank of Union Bridge were closed on Saturday by order of the directors of that institution. The Baltimore Sun of Sunday last says:

“E. F. Olmstead, cashier of the First National Bank of Union Bridge, has confessed to the board of directors that he is a defaulter to an unknown amount. He admits that he has used the money in speculation.”

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, June 1, 1922

Should Make Repairs

Raising peach trees along the streets is no criminal offense, but when said trees in wet weather forces pedestrians to the edge of a very bad piece of pavement then somthing (sic) is wrong but not with the trees. This refers particularly to the broken and dilapidated condition of the pavement at the H. & F. trolley (sic) station on E. Main street. Do not remove the trees, but replace a little concrete.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, June 1, 1922

June 1947, 75 Years Ago

Co. Group Asks For New School House

A large delegation of patrons, citing allegedly unhealthy conditions at the Sabillasville school, Wednesday requested the Frederick County Board of Education to consider the construction of a new building at an entirely new location.

                                          – Frederick News, June 5, 1947

Barns Struck, Trees Felled During Storms

…Tons of hail fell in Thurmont Saturday evening, riddling gardens and damaging crops on some farms around the town. The fury of the hailstorm centered in the town. Residents said they could scoop it up in shovels. Potato, tomato, corn, bean and other garden plants were cut off by the large hail stones. Residents said the hail fell thicker in a short time than they had ever seen it fall before.

                                     – Frederick News, June 9, 1947

June 1972, 50 Years Ago

Town Council Hears Flood Complaints Of Emmit Gardens Citizens, Will Act

Former Mayors Guy Baker, Jr. and Samuel Hays were the spokesmen when eighteen residents of Emmit Gardens appeared before the Town Council Monday night. Hays said that eighteen of the thirty-five homes in the development had been affected by Sunday night’s heavy rain and flooding. Seven homes had back up sewage, according to Hays.

The group asked the town council to clean and straighten Flat Run Creek and to assist them to petition the State Roads Adminstration to relieve the bottleneck at the bridge where Flat Run passes under Route 15.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, June 8, 1972

Mrs. Jones Retires From Town School

Mrs. Alma S. Jones retires at the conclusion of this school year from her position as the librarian of the Emmitsburg Middle School. Mrs. Jones has served Frederick County school 31 years, having begun teaching in 1942. The Emmitsburg PTA gave her a recognition party at which an inscribed silver dish was presented. The school faculty honored her at a party and presented her with the gift of a lounge chair.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, June 15, 1972

June 1997, 25 Years Ago

“Give Us Back Our Kids!”

A Citizen’s School Committee has planned an open meeting to present and make clear this town’s concern about the future of its school. This open meeting will be held at 7:00 June 12, in the multi-purpose room of the Emmitsburg Elementary School. It is expected that all of the county commissioners will attend and that there will be representatives from the Frederick County Board of Education.

According to committee moderator Mayor Carr, “Our job is to stem the eroding of our kids out of Emmitsburg into the Thurmont School District and then to bring them back to Emmitsburg.”

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, June 1997

Voter Registration Procedures Changed

At the Public Workshop held May 20th, the commissioners voted to eliminate the Town’s municipal voter registration procedures and utilize the Frederick County voter registration system.

Emmitsburg has been one of 6 municipalities in the county to have their own registration system for town elections.                                                 – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, June 1997

Once Upon A Time…

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by James Rada, Jr.

May 1922, 100 Years Ago

Student Government Organized at T.H.S.

Student government has been organized in the High School in order to take care of the grounds of the building.

…At present it is turning its attention to keeping the floors clean, and although student government is entirely new to all of us, it seems to be making great progress so far and we hope this will continue.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, May 4, 1922

Oh Joy! Riches!

Whether some of the Thurmont smoke of several weeks ago just arrived in Frederick and got in the eyes of compositors or linotype operators, proof readers, etc., of the Frederick Post, or a spasm or some violent disease fell unexpectedly on some old typewriter—well, take a breath, then read the figures $555,548,220 given as the total resources of the Central Trust Company of Maryland. If it were, thus many of us would quit work. Mistakes! We all make them. Read the figures in the bank statement in this issue.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, May 11, 1922

May 1947, 75 Years Ago

County Roads Board Awards Contract

The Frederick County Roads Board Monday night heard a request of Ballenger District residents for road improvements and approved the low bid of L. R. Waesche and Sons, Inc., Thurmont, for construction of 1.194 miles of the Rocky Ridge-LeGore road. The bid was $10,518. The bid also has to be approved by the Federal Bureau of Public Roads.

                                          – Frederick Post, May 13, 1947

Ice, Frost Accompany Low of 31

…Near Thurmont and also in the vicinity of Unionville, there were reports of “black frost” which may have done serious damage to garden produce. There were places where tomato plants were frozen, even though they had been covered. The damage undoubtedly extended to strawberry beds, in full blossom, and possibly such produce as potatoes, beans and early corn, just pushing through the ground.

                                     – Frederick Post, May 28, 1947

May 1972, 50 Years Ago

Scouts Keep Town Free of Litter

Scouts from the Emmitsburg area joined literally thousands of other scouters in a nation-wide clean-up event on Saturday. The clean up campaign was a joint effort of the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. Those participating agreed that the project was worthwhile and something the more than 100 scouts from Emmitsburg should participate in more often as a service to the community.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, May 5, 1972

Mount Graduates 164th Class Sunday

Mount Saint Mary’s College will confer bachelor degrees on 247 members of its 164th graduating class on Sunday, May 28. In addition, eight Master of Arts degrees will be awarded.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, May 25, 1972

May 1997, 25 Years Ago

Phil Postelle Wins Council Seat

On April 21, Emmitsburg elected Phil Postelle to be the new town commissioner. Of the approximate 1,000 registered voters, 160 voted in the election.

Mr. Postelle received 59 votes, defeating the incumbent Tom Gingell and Duian Pilch, a newcomer to the area. Pilch received 56 votes and Commissioner Gingell followed with 45 votes. He will serve a three-year term and will be sworn in at the May 5 Town Meeting.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, May 1997

Congratulations!

Helen Reaver, Emmitsburg Town Office receptionist, received Emmitsburg’s Municipal Government Award at the public workshop on April 21.

                                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, May 1997

Once Upon A Time…

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by James Rada, Jr.

April 1922, 100 Years Ago

Right-Of-Way Assured

The last obstacle standing in the way of constructing a modern highway, leading from the Emmitsburg state road at St. Anthony’s, and running to Motters Station, on the Emmitsburg Railway, has been removed. Daniel E. Callahan, through whose land the road will run, and who had hitherto refused to permit a road to be built across his land, has announced that he has come to an understanding with the State Roads Commission and will yield right of way across one of his fields.

The highway, which is between three and four miles in length, runs for about 1000 feet through Mr. Callahan’s property. It is to be of concrete.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, April 20, 1922

Wind Damage

The high winds of last Thursday overthrew the temporary exhaust pipe at the power house; the stack buckled and confined the gas from the exhaust. The gas took fire and was communicated to the engine, and this put the engine out of business for a few hours.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, April 27, 1922

April 1947, 75 Years Ago

Governor May Not Sign Two County Bills

Indications were Wednesday night that Governor Lane may not sign Frederick County local bills recently passed by the Legislature to license mechanical devices in incorporated clubs and to provide $1,000 annual expense account for the State’s Attorney….

Many local bills were among those signed into law Wednesday by the Governor. They include: Authorizing Thurmont Commissioners to establish a Police Department and provide for parking meters.

                                          – Frederick Post, April 17, 1947

Last Night’s Low Was 27

A moderately heavy frost was reported early today in some sections as the mercury descended to a minimum of 27 degrees in the city, coldest since April 4, but it was not believed there was serious damage to budding fruit trees….

A very light frost was noted at an orchard near Thurmont where there was also thin ice. The mercury dropped to 32 degrees there. No damage was reported.

                                     – Frederick Post, April 28, 1947

April 1972, 50 Years Ago

State Highway Administration Offers Benefits If Rt. 15 Dualization Plan Used

Officials of the Maryland State Highway Administration Wednesday night offered three general plans for solution to the controversy over the U.S. Route 15 dualization through the Catoctin Furnace area.

An audience of 250 concerned citizens and officials from federal, state, and local agencies gathered at the Lewistown Elementary School to hear the presentation, and offer views and comments for consideration of the officials.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, April 6, 1972

Adams Bros. & Dad Win Talent Show

With an enthusiastic crowd of 200 on hand, the Sunrise Singers of Emmitsburg sponsored a talent show Sunday evening in the Mother Seton School auditorium when first place of $100 was won by the Adams Brothers and Dad of Gettysburg, while a trio from the Hoffman Home, near Littlestown, carried off second honors and $50 prize.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, April 2, 1972

April 1997, 25 Years Ago

Committee Seeks Residents’ Views on Speed Limit

According to Streets and Transportation chairman Brian Brotherton, committee members will poll the citizens of Emmitsburg on the question of a uniform 30 mph speed limit through town. We would like to see the 30 mph speed limit extend from Tract Road to Harney Road,” said Brotherton.

                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, April 1997

New Candidate Makes It a Race For Commissioner’s Seat

Duane Pilch, Northgate resident, announced that he will seek the upcoming open position on the town council.

Once Upon A Time…

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by James Rada, Jr.

March 1922, 100 Years Ago

Timber Land Purchased

Joseph E. Williard of Foxville has purchased 221 acres of timber land from J. Wesley McAfee near Foxville. Mr. Williard will install machinery for the manufacture of lumber of all kinds. He expects to have the mill in operation by April 15th.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, March 23, 1922

Another New Road?

The County Commissioners, Dr. Victor F. Cullen, superintendent of the Sanatorium of Sabillasville, and other citizens of Hauvers District, held a conference with the State Roads Commission in Baltimore last Wednesday relative to the State taking over the road from Thurmont to the sanatorium and converting it into an improved highway.

A bill is now before the Legislature providing for the State to take over and improve all highways leaving from main roads to State institutions.

                                          – Catoctin Clarion, March 9, 1922

March 1947, 75 Years Ago

Bond Issue For Schools Asked

Representatives of the Frederick County Board of Education discussed with the County Commissioners Tuesday the possibility of introducing legislation to renew a $200,000 enabling act for school construction… They pointed to what they said are pressing needs for additions and improvements at Thurmont, where classes are held in the halls… The improvements at Thurmont they said, have long been contemplated plans have been drawn and they have reason to believe from qualified sources that bids could be asked soon.

                                          – Frederick Post, March 5, 1947

Beaver Creek Trout Hatchery Soon Open

The State Inland Fish and Game Commission today announced award of contracts for an immediate start of preliminary work for the $300,000 Beaver Creek fresh water fish hatchery in Washington County.… The Commission plans to transfer about 50,000 fingerling brook, rainbow, and brown trout from the Lewistown hatchery near Thurmont to the new pools. When reared, they will be planted in Maryland streams, sometime in 1948.

                                     – Frederick Post, March 28, 1947

March 1972, 50 Years Ago

Town Churches Plan Day Of Prayer

The annual World Day of Prayer will be observed this year in the community of Emmitsburg in Incarnation United Church of Christ at 7:30 p.m. this Friday night, March 3. Everyone is welcome to attend and unite with women around the world in a session of prayer. The theme is “All Joy Be Yours.”

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 2, 1972

Local Lady Takes Helicopter Ride

Congratulations to Mrs. Nathan Valentine for taking her first plane ride at age 86. Cora has always been a great fisherwoman but yesterday she used a helicopter to tour the local area and visit her children’s and grandchildren’s homes in Emmitsburg and Thurmont from the highest she has ever been in the air. Allen Davis went along to point out the highlights.

                                          – Emmitsburg Chronicle, March 2, 1972

March 1997, 25 Years Ago

Renovation to Community Center To Begin

Representatives of clubs and organizations that use space in the Emmitsburg Community Center were briefed at a meeting held Thursday, February 20th, on plans and schedules for the upcoming $600,000 modifications to the building.

The first part is scheduled to begin April 1 and completed by September of this year. The second part of the renovation is included in the county’s Capital Improvement Budget for 2002.

                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, March 1997

Crimes Down Against People and Property in Emmitsburg

Deputy Jeff Bartlett presented a yearly summary of policing activities carried out by the town deputies for 1996. Records show that, on the whole, Emmitsburg remains a comparatively quiet, peaceful town with a few trouble spots. “Crimes against people and property are down even though there was an 18% increase across Frederick County,” Bartlett said.

                          – The Emmitsburg Regional Dispatch, March 1997