A weekly look back compiled by the Clark County Historical Museum from The Columbian archives available at columbian.newspapers.com or at the museum.
- 100 years ago
On Aug. 4, 1924, a Camas resident received a fine of $50 from Judge James O. Blair for speeding. The offender, who gave her name as Miss B. Leadbetter, was driving to Vancouver on the North Bank Highway when placed under arrest by F.O. Miller, a city fireman.
- 75 years ago
On Aug. 9, 1949, Eddie Costello, a Vancouver 11-year-old, was getting ready to compete at the National Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio. Costello, the winner of the local Columbia Chevrolet 1949 Soapbox Derby Championship, would be accompanied by The Columbian’s editor, Ray Bachman. Before the race, Costello would have a week of activities, including his first plane ride, a private car and police escort, and a chance to meet movie star Jimmy Stewart. Win or lose, all participants got a wristwatch, and the first five winners received prizes such as scholarships, binoculars or a Chevrolet car.
- 50 years ago
On Aug. 9, 1974, Gerald R. Ford became the 38th U.S. president after the resignation of Richard M. Nixon. Ford told the nation during a televised address that “our long national nightmare is over,” and promised plain talk during an extraordinary hour.
- 25 years ago
The Vancouver Farmers Market kicked off its first Tuesday market on Aug. 3, 1999. Held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays through Sept. 28, the event featured vendors, restaurants, bands and even a massage tent.
