Years Ago
This column is a revitalized weekly addition to the paper. The following moments in history are selected, researched, and edited by Skaneateles High School students enrolled in Kate Hardy’s 10th grade Honors English class. For the next school year they hope to celebrate the past and remember the days from years ago. Thank you to the Skaneateles Library and the Historical Society for providing the Press archives.
20 Years Ago
… the Skaneateles Village Planning Board was considering turning a property at 150 E. Genesee St., into a possible bed and breakfast. The proposal was presented by Bourke Kennedy, trying to win over the board on the idea. The idea was asked to be revisited after making changes to the proposal, but the building never became the bed and breakfast that Kennedy hoped it would. Instead, it would be an assisted living facility. Today, The Athenaeum, is a welcoming home for many senior citizens where they are assisted with their daily activities. If you or a loved one is interested in looking into their programs or scheduling a tour, you can call 315-210-8546.
40 Years Ago
… there was an article published in the Skaneateles Press regarding the rise of mailbox vandalism. The article noted that the “summertime sport” had begun to rival fishing and boating for popularity. The roads that were hit the hardest in the village were East Lake Road, Jordan Road, and Highland Avenue, although all of the town delivery areas were affected by mailbox vandalism, as the Skaneateles postmaster stated. At the time, both Marcellus and Marietta were affected by a rise in mailbox vandalism as well. The punishment at the time was consistent with today, as an individual could have been convicted and fined $1,000 or receive a prison term of up to three years, although it typically didn’t result in imprisonment. Thankfully for the Skaneateles community, mailbox vandalism is not as prevalent today, although it still occurs occasionally.
60 Years Ago
… the Skaneateles Press published an article about how fishing could be the solution to the so-called “Cold War.” The article explains that this is because the oceans are the only area between nations that is recognized as free. Therefore, it was proposed that the equal area of the oceans could be used to decrease tensions between the United States and Russia. Although the fishing industry did not end the Cold War, the relationship between Russia and the United States did improve after the fall of the Soviet Union in ‘91. However, some experts argue that the US is now entering a second Cold War period. According to The National Interest, Russia has “allied itself loosely with China,” forming the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). If this is a second Warsaw Pact, could marine life drag us out of dissension?
80 Years Ago
… an article informed readers that the New York State Fair was taking place from August 26th to September 9th. The Fair included a “million dollar” aviation show, a steeplechase, other horse races, a rodeo, a flower show, a produce display, community singing, a fireworks show, and much more. It called the fair “Fifteen Thrill-Packed Days” and warned visitors to be prepared to have “the time of your life.” This year, the fair starts a week from today, and is going until September 2nd. This State Fair has many musical shows. Some of the well-known performers include Ice Cube, Dropkick Murphys, The Roots, and Blood Sweat and Tears. Some theme days to be aware of are Adopt a Pet Day on Aug. 25 and 25, and Orange Day on Aug. 31, which is $1 admission for anyone wearing Syracuse University Apparel. Check the fair’s website for more information.
100 Years Ago
… The Democrat published an article that described the beginnings of the long process of restoring churches which had been destroyed during the German invasion of Northern France in World War I. Churches, often the center of the community, have historically been the target of violence. Recently, religious tensions around the world have led to more frequent violent attacks on places of worship. The long process of restoration and rebuilding is part of the strength of the community. Just as the churches destroyed by the First World War were restored by a dedicated group of people, the churches targeted in recent events must regain strength. The togetherness of people will always prevail in the face of adversity.
