MID-SOUTH MEMORIES
25 years ago — 1995
Frank Richard Ahlgren, whose “majestic presence” as editor dominated The Commercial Appeal for a third of the century, died of congestive heart failure at his home Sunday, his 92nd birthday. “No editor before and certainly no editor since has commanded the respect as did Frank Richard Ahlgren as editor of The Commercial Appeal through some of Memphis’ most tumultuous times,” said Angus Mceachran, editor and president of The Commercial Appeal. Mr. Ahlgren came to Memphis from Wisconsin in 1926. Ten years later he became the newspaper’s editor and held that position with a commanding suit-and-tie formality for 32 years, longer than any other editor. He retired in 1968.
50 years ago — 1970
The $125,000 needed to show popular support of the arts has been exceeded in the current Memphis Arts Council Inc. fundraising drive. Council president Dr. Walter K. Hoffman reported to the board yesterday $126,023 has been netted and another $5,000 or so is expected before the drive ends June 30. Since the $125,000 goal was realized, the board yesterday reviewed the financial requests of organizations it supports with plans made for the additional $50,000 expected from the city and county. Officers elected yesterday are: Dr. Hoffman, president; John T. Fisher, first vice president; Dr. Tom Stern, second vice president; Norman Blake, treasurer; and Miss Blanche Bryant, secretary.
75 years ago — 1945
London – A mysterious radio station broadcasting in German, claimed Monday night that Adolf Hitler is not only alive, but living “with some of his most faithful followers beyond the reach” of the Allies. The broadcast was picked up by the London Daily Sketch and lasted one minute according to the newspaper. “Don’t despair, Germans,” the broadcast was quoted as saying. “Light will come again from out of the darkness.”
100 years ago — 1920
Russia is engaged in an attempt to either blackmail or bribe the remainder of the world, that she might be received into the family of nations. In her latest blackmail attempt, she threatens to repudiate debts Russia owes to the great powers unless those same powers extend recognition and aid to her.
125 years ago — 1895
Fort Worth, Texas – All of Texas needed rain, so the great evangelist Dwight Moody called upon his audience of 8,000 Christians to pray fervently that the floodgates might be opened. That was two days ago. Last night the Tabernacle was crowded with 10,000 people. Mr. Moody announced that word had come from several points that rain was beginning to fall. He gave thanks and called on the congregation to join in singing a hymn. During the second stanza a crackling noise was heard and suddenly the roof sank and the rafters gave way, falling on a portion of the worshipers. At that moment a torrential rain began to fall. Miraculously no one was killed and only four were slightly injured by the falling timbers.