A century ago, the American Legion announced a citywide raffle to win a new car, coupled with a popularity contest for local girls. The contest prizes are expensive jewelry pieces. The total value of all prizes is around $1,000.
100 years ago
May 14, 1924
• A new car will be the biggest prize in a citywide raffle and popularity contest.
The American Legion is sponsoring the Popular Girl Contest, held in conjunction with the Wortham Carnival, which is performing Poplar Bluff this month. The winner of the May 30 raffle will take home a new Ford Sedan. Three smaller prizes will go to “the most popular girls in the city” according to a vote: first place is a $100 diamond ring, followed by a $35 wrist watch and a $20 necklace.
The total value of the prizes is around $1,000. Ticket sales will benefit the Legion.
75 years ago
May 14, 1949
• A rail crossing collision killed one and seriously injured another yesterday near Ironton.
A lumber truck pulled onto the track just as a Missouri Pacific passenger train reached it. John Clark, a 39-year-old sawmill worker, was killed instantly. Murel Allen, 22, was badly injured and remains hospitalized. Highway patrolmen said it was unclear which man was driving.
No train passengers were harmed.
50 years ago
May 14, 1974
• A Stoddard County man who fatally shot his brother acted in self-defense, a coroner’s jury ruled.
The shooting happened in March. Chester and Norman Robinson were reportedly arguing near their parents’ home in Brownville when Norman drew a knife on Chester. Chester pulled a 16 gauge shotgun from his car and fatally shot Norman.
No charges will be filed.