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 Press published an array of photos displaying the senior ball celebration among local students. Students participated in a kickoff breakfast and “After the Ball” activities to say goodbye to their high school careers. This year, the senior class of Skaneateles is celebrating on Saturday, June 1 at the Skaneateles Country Club. The students will end the night at the “After the Ball” celebration at the Ultimate Goal in Marcellus where students get involved in various activities, including a hypnotist, fun auctions, and much more! The class will be down in Thayer Park before the ball, so make sure to stop by and say a farewell as they start a new chapter in their lives.

40 Years Ago

… The Press published an article mentioning a local golf course. As spring arrives and courses open, we would like to highlight some options for any readers looking to hit the links. 18-hole options include Dutch Hollow in Owasco, Millstone in Elbridge, and Sunset Ridge in Marcellus. Pearl Lakes, another nearby establishment, offers a 9-hole course. At any of the courses listed there is an option to play just 9 holes for those pressed for time. The cost to play a full 18 holes ranges from $26-$40, depending on the added use of a cart. For anyone looking to play at one of the courses listed, we recommend calling ahead and booking a tee time in advance.

60 Years Ago

In the May 22 edition of the 1959 Skaneateles Press, an advertisement for “baby banks” was published. The offer included a choice between a baby blue or baby pink bank for only $1.25, concealed in the form of an average size book. The bank also included a personalization option for parents to write the child’s name in their own handwriting. The baby banking system provided a money-saving opportunity for parents to help their young children establish good economic values. Today, many parents instead choose to save money for their children in the more modern form of a 529 plan. According to SEC.gov, a 529 plan is a good investment option because it serves as a tax free savings account to be used for a child’s education. Because a 529 plan accumulates interest over the duration of a child’s life, it is a much better investment than locking money away in a book-shaped box. Considering the exorbitant price of college, it’s a good idea to start saving early!

80 Years Ago

… the Skaneateles Press published an advertisement for The Mohawk Gas Company, announcing their new representative for Skaneateles and the near vicinity, Ferdinand Poppelsdorf. The article advertised the Mohawk Gas Company’s sale of Ruud hot water heaters and Servel Electrolux refrigerators. With summer arriving, grills seem to be the appliance on most readers’ minds. We’d like to remind readers to refill their propane tanks. While the Mohawk Gas Company isn’t selling appliances in Skaneateles anymore, you can still have your propane needs met here in town. A great way to fill your propane tank is to bring it to Griffith Energy, or to purchase a new tank entirely. Happy grilling!

100 Years Ago

The Democrat published an article titled “How’s Your Blood? Pimples and Eruptions Mean Bad Blood”. The article discussed how blemishes or pimples could indicate poor health and then recommended a remedy made of natural roots and barks that “purifies” your blood. Many advancements have been made in skincare over the last one hundred years. For example, we now know pimples are caused by the buildup of dead skin or bacteria in the pores of one’s skin not in one’s bloodstream (healthline.com). Acne medications today are often made up of a variety of compounds, including benzoyl peroxide which is known to reduce acne causing bacteria by drying out the skin (webmd.com). Over the last decade however, there has been a push to return to natural remedies instead of artificial compounds. Common plants used in skincare include lavender, aloe vera, and thyme. All of which can be grown right in your own garden at home.