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 Sept. 23, 1924, a fire of unknown origin destroyed the Ridgefield Hotel. Discovered at 2 a.m., the fire grew quickly, making it impossible to save the structure. “Aided by falling rain,” firefighters confined the blaze to the hotel, saving adjoining properties such as Erik Bjur’s photography studio-residence, S. E. Layne Grocery, and the Ridgefield Milk Products Factory, as well as surrounding residences. The damage resulting from the blaze of the two-story frame structure, along with its contents, amounted to an estimated $25,000 (about $460,000 today).
- 75 years ago
The Clark County Child Guidance Clinic added the services of a psychiatrist for children and adults in September 1949. Prior to the clinic’s approval, those seeking treatment were referred to a psychiatrist in Portland. Funding for the new clinic was provided by Clark County, the Community Chest, and the state Board of Health.
- 50 years ago
After a four-week closure for repairs, it was announced on Sept. 27, 1974, that the Marshall Community Center would reopen the following week. In total, $70,000 (about $446,000 today) was spent to reinforce the building, install a new pool deck, add accommodations for those with disabilities and soundproof community rooms to ensure meetings weren’t interrupted by “banging basketballs in the adjoining gym.” Regular fall programs would also start with the re-opening of the center, including arts and crafts, physical fitness programs, and swimming classes.
