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 article about Norris Funeral Home, Inc. of Marcellus planting trees in memoriam to those who passed. With the end of a loved one’s life, a new one would begin. Not only did this contribute to the scenery of upstate New York, but it also greatly benefited the environment as a result. The trees were planted in areas that needed them most, as determined by professional foresters, and are now fully grown, providing a beautiful setting and fresh air to represent the lives of those they are dedicated to. With Earth Day having just passed, it’s never too late to participate in improving your community and the health of the Earth. On April 27, the Town Hall will be offering an introduction to electric cars. The Skaneateles Lake Association is a good option if you are looking to donate to an environmental cause. Even something as simple as recycling is a year-round activity that will contribute to the natural well-being of Onondaga County, and the world. Services for our community are always appreciated, no matter how big or small, so thank you for doing your part.

40 Years Ago

… the Skaneateles Press published an ad for Roland’s, a clothing store in the village. The ad highlighted the store’s sale of brands such as Levi’s, Arrow, and Wrangler. According to their Facebook page, the store was established in 1961 by Roland Fragnoli. He created the business with a vision to bring brand name clothing and footwear to Skaneateles citizens at discounted prices. Today, Roland’s is still selling the brands mentioned in the ad, with many additional brands such as Patagonia, North Face, Carhartt, Olukai, and more. Although in the past, the store sold only men’s and boy’s wear, they now offer women’s wear as well. Open from 10am to 6pm Sunday through Thursday and from 10am to 8pm on Friday and Saturday, make sure to stop by this Skaneateles mainstay.

60 Years Ago

… an article in The Skaneateles Press was published informing local parents about an immunization clinic for preschoolers in the Skaneateles Elementary School. The Vaccinations administered by Dr. A. B. Smith included whooping cough, smallpox, and polio. The article strongly encouraged that all parents get their child’s vaccinations via their family doctor or through the clinic. Today many people get vaccinations a variety ways such as at private clinics, hospitals, and drug stores. According to vaccinations.gov, if your child does not get vaccinated they could spread a disease to people around them. As stated by the New York State Department of Health, for school entrance and attendance, schoolchildren need to have vaccines including Tetanus and Diphtheria, Polio, Measles, Mumps and Hepatitis B.  If your child is planning to start kindergarten next year, now is the time to schedule an immunization appointment!

80 Years Ago

According to an article published 80 years ago, plaid hats with matching bags and bright colors were the upcoming fashion trend in 1939. Other trends such as overalls and big jewelry dominated the dressing style of women in the 40s (vintagedancer.com). In the 1980s, spandex and neon colors emerged in women’s fashion; today athleisure and oversized earrings are in style. Fashion is always evolving into something new but at the same time it is cyclical. Styles from previous decades resurface on haute couture runways and dominate the public’s dressing style. For example, the ’40s trend of high-waist pants has continued to be a popular style for women in the 21st century, as well as the modernizing of 80s looks throughout the fashion industry.

100 Years Ago

… an article in the Skaneateles Press was published regarding an anti-Semitic act in the Ukraine. It was declared that 2,500 Jews were either killed or injured in April of 1919. Skaneateles students were shocked to have encountered this article because although they’ve been taught that anti-Semitism has a long history, they had not learned about any specific mass murders at this large of a scale that took place prior to the Holocaust.  According to “Defending History,” Jews were constantly discriminated against under a nationalistic campaign in the Ukraine between the years 1918-1921, more than 10 years prior to the Holocaust. Learning about the build-up of anti-Semitic acts allows for a greater understanding of overall history, and we appreciate the local paper keeping citizens informed of world events.