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
The City of Galesburg was identified by the Ladies’ Home Journal as one the top four Home Towns of the United States.
The local paper expressed the pride of the community to be recognized in this manner.
75 years ago — 1951
Stan Musial (St. Louis) lead all players in a survey for the All-Star game. Number two in the voting was White Sox second baseman, Nellie Fox. And in third was Dodger outfielder, Jackie Robinson.
Ted Williams was edging out Minnie Minoso (White Sox) for an outfield position. Famous Yankee, Yogi Berra led all catchers, included the legendary Sherm Lollar of the Sox.
Two of the happiest in Galesburg to see this article were my dogs- Minnie (Minoso) and Nellie (Fox). My Minnie and Nellie are certainly All-Stars!
50 years ago — 1976
I had forgotten about traveler’s checks. Is there still such a thing?
I can remember when before you went on a trip, someone would say, “Do we have traveler’s checks?”
25 years ago — 2001
Railroad Days wasn’t just a downtown thing. The entire community pulled together to build up the event.
There was a huge model train exhibit out at Carl Sandburg College that drew people from great distances.
10 years ago — 2016
Just 10 years ago, JC Penney’s was excited about their remodel in the Sandburg Mall. JC Penney’s had opened in downtown Galesburg in 1920, and then moved to the Sandburg Mall in 1976.
The remodel was intended to give JC Penney’s “a modern interior and feel of a brand new JC Penney’s store.”
Spokesman for JC Penney’s said, “JC Penney’s is committed to the community and optimistic about Sandburg Mall.”
Evan Massey is a regular contributor to WGIL.
