Evan Massey is a regular contributor to WGIL. He is the former girls basketball coach at Galesburg High School, retired as one of the most successful coaches in Illinois history. He writes history features and a weekly Time Capsule column for WGIL.
This is a look back at the history of Galesburg (and the world). What was going on 100 years ago, 75 years ago, 50 years ago, 25 years ago, and 10 years ago this week?
100 Years Ago — 1926
In response to the city’s growth, Chicago changes their building codes to allow buildings of more than 20 stories to be built.
75 Years Ago — 1951
Galesburg HS coaching legend, Chuck Bednar gave the Streaks rubber balls to work out in Steele Gym.
50 Years Ago — 1976
Mike Campbell is honored with both the Budget Memorial Award (Outstanding Senior Athlete) and the Gerald Phillips Award (highest GPA at end of Junior year). Campbell was only the third athlete to win both awards.
Roland Hegg and Betty Graffouliere were recognized for their service to GHS as music instructors. Later the GHS Auditorium would be named the Hegg Auditorium.
25 Years Ago — 2001
New cinemas were opened on Sandburg Drive.
10 Years Ago — 2016
Galesburg’s State Champ, Josh Eiker was making his last race at home.
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