Penney for a purse

25 years ago: 1988

Presidential politics continued to sprout like a family tree in Memphis yesterday as two more wives brought their husbands’ campaigns to the area. Dede Robertson, wife of former television evangelist and Republican presidential hopeful Pat Robertson, visited the weekly luncheon at Bellevue Baptist Church and toured the Mid-South Christian Nursing Home at 2380 James Road. Elizabeth Dole, wife of GOP Sen. Robert Dole of Kansas, held a press conference at Memphis International Airport. The visits came only two days after local appearances by Barbara Bush, wife of Vice President George Bush, and Jacqueline Jackson, wife of Democratic contender Jesse Jackson.

50 years ago: 1963

Sharp earth tremors shattered the calm of a Sunday morning yesterday and startled hundreds of Memphians and residents in a seven-state area. The tremors, centered about 140 miles south of St. Louis in what is known as the New Madrid fault, began at 11:30 a.m. and lasted 30 to 40 seconds. In some places two distinct shocks were felt, while others felt three. The tremors were described by seismologists as moderate to strong and sent hundreds of Memphians scurrying to their telephones. The Commercial Appeal received nearly 100 calls.

75 years ago: 1938

Mary Virginia Capell has been named princess to the King and Lois Nickey princess to the Queen to serve their majesties in this year’s Cotton Carnival.

100 years ago: 1913

WASHINGTON — Woodrow Wilson today will become president of t he United States amid imposing ceremonies and the tumultuous cheers of thousands of Americans.

125 years ago: 1888

Taxing district officials have ordered the blue flannel cloth for the spring uniforms of the police force.