From Our Files

• July 3, 1947

A sudden windstorm that reportedly rose to a fury of 85 mph spread destruction as it swept across a path north of Hartley. Hail which accompanied the gale totally destroyed some corn and bean fields, beat others to the ground and broke hundreds of home, barn and school windows in a 10 to 15 mile strip. No damage other than broken tree branches was reported in Hartley.

DeYoung’s Ice Cream Store, a popular place especially during hot days, greatly enlarged their ice cream storage space by adding a new 12-section storage cabinet.

Ralph Collman, of Hartley, completed a course in practical and theoretical radio and television, and was awarded a diploma by the National Radio Institute in Washington, D.C.

• June 29, 1972

Mrs. Lowell (Bonnie) Watters was making an attractive addition to the Hartley business district by moving the Wayside Flower Shop from east of Hartley on Highway 18 to the Kenyon building, which was being vacated by Harold’s Jewelry. Remodeling of the building was contemplated.

Mrs. Helen Lock was retiring after 28 years of service at the Hartley Post Office. She was a regular clerk for many years and was also clerk in charge after the retirement of Postmaster Harry Olhausen. She planned to do some traveling in her retirement.

Last rites were held at Spirit Lake for Pastor A.O. Bleeke, who had served St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hartley from 1953 until his retirement in 1970. He had died following a heart attack suffered while playing golf, his favorite recreational activity, with fellow ministers.

• July 3, 1997

Hartley Fire Department members receiving plaques in recognition of their years of volunteer service were Roger Crist, Larry Espey, Dan Mohni and Steve Prins, 10 years; and Kevin Groen, 20 years. Farmers Mutual Insurance Association of O’Brien County provided the plaques.

Mike McCarty, of Hartley, and Kristina Otto, of May City, were among the eight king and queen candidates for the 1997 O’Brien County Fair. Both were members of the O&O Kids 4-H Club.

The City of Hartley took delivery of a new Cub Cadet tractor and 72-inch mower deck. The unit replaced a Farmall C tractor and 60-inch deck. The Cub Cadet was used for mowing city parks and other facilities, such as the airport. Mowing of all city properties by employee Tom Long took from 3-1/2 to four days depending on how fast the grass was growing.

“From Our Files” is compiled by Sentinel-News sports editor/staff writer Mike Petersen.