From Our Files

• April 29, 1948

A statewide move to stamp out the menace of flies in Iowa was being translated into action in Hartley. Getting rid of flies called for a double-edged attack that included a sanitation program followed by spraying with DDT.

The building committee of the Hartley Methodist Church decided to go ahead with construction of a new parsonage on the site of the existing pastor’s home. The old parsonage was to be sold and then moved as soon as possible.

A visitation day for seventh and eighth graders was sponsored by the Hartley Public School. All pupils from the surrounding area interested in high school were invited to take part in a full day of events at the local school.

• April 26, 1973

The tier of townships in eastern O’Brien County and an area of western Clay County were hit by a series of storms. Over 300 claims had been filed with the O’Brien County Farmers Mutual Insurance Association. Damage associated with the storm approached $100,000.

A large number of trees donated by civic-minded organizations and individuals were planted at the Hartley High School. The work was done by members of the Hartley FFA Chapter. The plantings were promoted by the Community Improvement Project, which would continue until 1974.

The O’Brien County Board of Supervisors did not go through with a proposal to cease ambulance administration in the county. However, local towns would be required to pay the attendants and drivers who were on night and weekend duty.

• April 30, 1998

Over 200 Hartley United Methodist women and guests celebrated the 50th Annual Birthday Luncheon. The first birthday luncheon was held on April 8, 1948, and was presented by the Mary Circle in the old Methodist church parlors.

Tim Olson resigned after two years as principal of Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn High School. He had accepted a teaching position at Ankeny. Russ Adams was named as Olson’s replacement and Jerry Raymond, who was the 6-12 principal at Greene, was hired to take Adams’ place at the middle school.

New play equipment designed for children ages 2-6 was ordered for the city park in northeast Hartley. Cost of the equipment was approximately $9,000, which was funded through donations that had been given to the park board.

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