Out of the Past - March 10, 1921 - 90 yrs ago

Local firm installs hat blocking machine

The Master Cleaners were busy the early part of this week installing a new hat blocking machine. The machine takes care of the entire process after the hat is cleaned. It has a steamer where the hat is first placed after cleaning. After thorough steaming the hat is transferred to a crown block which is whirled by an electric motor. While the hat is whirling a special electric iron and brushes are pressed against it forcing the felt back into its original shape and firmness. The hat is then placed in the rim block where a heavy bag of heated sand presses the brim back to its original shape.

This machine is a fine addition to the Master Cleaners’ plant. Few cleaning plants in cities of this size are equipped to reblock men’s and women’s felt hats by factory methods. The Master Cleaners plant was recently purchased by Henry Hock and Louis and Russell Petersen.

Two-color folder details features of fair and rodeo

The job printing department of the Chief has just completed an outstanding piece of advertising for the Custer County Fair and Rodeo August 18-21, which is being distributed this week.

It consists of a large folder containing very complete information as to the program along with much descriptive matter telling of the rules and explaining the special features which will be seen this year. The design of the folder as well as the information it contains is the clever work of John A. Stryker whom the fair management has secured as master of ceremonies. It is illustrated with some excellent cuts showing thrilling rodeo scenes, giving the patrons some idea of what they may expect to see at Broken Bow next August.