Houlton area From our Files – Week of June 15, 2020

4 years ago

100 Years Ago – June 23, 1920

     Making improvements — Earle & White, owners of the Exchange Block, are making some improvements in the rear of their block. They have torn down the three-story ell and will also open up a driveway between that and the stable which will reduce the fire risk very materially.

     Purchased land — M. B. Berman has purchased from the Pray estate the home on Leonard St. occupied by Mrs. Pray and has engaged Contractor NcNair to make some extensive repairs on the same. When ready he will occupy it as a residence.

75 Years Ago – June 21, 1945

     Attend meeting — J. Norman Mullen attended a meeting of the Maine Water Association held in Northeast Harbor Wednesday and was accompanied to Trenton by Mrs. Mullen who was the guest of friends there. Mrs. C.W. Mullen of Bangor returned to Houlton with them for a visit.

     Work on building — Heavy building equipment for use in erecting the first unit of Ricker’s new buildings arrived here Tuesday and started work. The campus, usually inactive during the summer weeks, is now the scene of busy activity. The actual work of construction has begun. The Simonds Construction Company of Portland announced that Frank Murphy will be the superintendent in charge of erecting the first unit. Mr. Murphy is known to Houlton through his work as superintendent in charge of construction for the Houlton Theater.

50 Years Ago – June 24, 1970

     Lions auction — Nearly $1,000 was realized again this year in the annual Lions Club auction held in the parking area at the Houlton Shopping Center near Grants. A flat-bed truck provided the stage for the auction items which were eagerly chosen by bidders. The auctioneer, Lyndon McMackin, is a member of the local club. Proceeds will be used for the Lions Sight Conservation program as well as community betterment projects.

     Buying trip — Mrs. Mildred McIntosh was in New York last week on a buying trip for Bithers.

25 Years Ago – June 21, 1995

    Donation — Machias Savings Bank donated an incubator for Nancy Wright’s Kindergarten class at Wellington School. The incubator was needed for the annual spring science event of hatching ducks. The unit integrates math and science concepts. Gerald Riles, vice-president/branch manager of Machias Savings Bank, along with students, were on hand to receive the unit. 

    Boy with the Boot — The 70 associates at Houlton Shop ‘n Save raised $1,000 to purchase a Boy and the Boot statue from the Health Services Foundation by supporting their break-room vending machines, car washes, collecting returnable cans and raffling handmade items. The statue will be displayed at the front of the store.