MID-SOUTH MEMORIES
25 years ago — 1995
Los Angeles – After nearly seven months of legal maneuvering, the most shamelessly hyped murder case in U.S. history will enter its decisive phase today when opening statements begin in the trial of O.J. Simpson. Two incongruous versions of Simpson’s persona will be given to the 12-member jury, and Simpson’s fate will ultimately depend on which one it believes. One is the streetsmart San Francisco ghetto kid who overcame tremendous odds to become a beloved star of football and Hollywood, and who is now wrongly accused of hideous murders. The other is a hot-tempered, hard-drinking, foulmouthed bully who for years humiliated and terrorized the mother of his children, the woman he professed to love. The “trial of the century” has captivated America like no crime since the kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh’s baby.
50 years ago — 1970
President Nixon told Congress Thursday he wants his administration to be remembered as a time when Americans launched a “New Quest” to improve the quality of life. He said he will propose new financing methods for buying park land and open spaces “before they are lost to us.” A complete reform of the welfare system again was urged.
75 years ago — 1945
To brace the cotton industry for the bumpy, uncertain ride through postwar years, members of the National Cotton Council meet here today through Wednesday for what has been termed the most important conference in the industry’s modern history. The industry’s present state will be examined when Oscar Johnston, council president, presents his annual report in a talk at The Peabody today.
100 years ago — 1920
One of the largest hardwood flooring plants in the United States will be located in Memphis, according to an announcement last night made by C.E. Bruce, treasurer of the E.L. Bruce Company of Little Rock, home office of the new firm. A site of 20 acres on Thomas Avenue, North Memphis, has been purchased.
125 years ago — 1895
New Albany, Miss. – The annual meet of the Southern Field Trial Club commences on their grounds here Monday. The prospects for a large and interesting meet were never better. The club is the largest organization of its kind in the world and its roster contains the names of nationally famous breeders and trainers.