From Our Files

• Jan. 8, 1948

Kermit Kloppenburg, Hartley Township chairman of the O’Brien County Farm Bureau, reported that the Christian Christmas Fund Drive was very successful. Though no official goal was assigned to the township, contributions aggregating $1,008 were received.

Bill Byers, well-known in this vicinity, purchased the north Cities Service Station on Highway 18 from Leonard Jurgens. Mr. Jurgens, who had operated the station since purchasing it from Len Rickabaugh, had made no definite plans.

Despite a cold wave, 150 members and their parents attended the annual countywide 4-H party at the Primghar High School. Jean Rohwer, of Paullina, and Jay Meiske, of Hartley, gave highlights of their trip to Chicago.

• Jan. 4, 1973

The Hartley Town Council voted to replace the stop and go lights at the intersection of Central Avenue and First Street South with four-way stop signs. During the time needed to acquire the signs and brackets, the stoplights were to operate on a flashing basis. Superintendent of Utilities Wilbur Wacker said the mechanism controlling the signals was worn out and replacements were no longer available.

Richard Anderson took over duties as secretary of the Chamber of Commerce. The Anderson family for many years had operated the Hartley Creamery, at one time Hartley’s largest industry.

Gas pumps at Gibbs Bros. Champlin on Highway 18 were struck by a car which was rear-ended by a truck. The impact caused a fire that necessitated action by the Hartley Fire Department.

• Jan. 8, 1998

As a result of legislation passed by the Iowa General Assembly in 1997, the City of Hartley received $7,876 in additional tax credit reimbursements. The legislation fully funded homestead, military and elderly property tax credits. The city designated $4,000 of the reimbursement for property tax relief to reduce the liability, property and self-insurance levy. The remainder was earmarked for infrastructure needs. Both were designated for the 1998-99 fiscal year.

After a beautiful, warm New Year’s Day, winter proved it was still around. Rain began to fall late in the morning on Sunday, and by mid-afternoon heavy ice blanketed the entire area. Due to icy road conditions, classes were canceled at Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn and the ice took its toll on many trees.

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