100 years ago: “Mrs. Alex Allan miraculously escaped instant death when she was struck by lightning near Pagosa Springs. Her shoes were shredded and her lungs bled severely, but she is now pronounced out of danger.”
75 years ago: “Penney’s Dollar Days: Desk lamp PLUS pen – $1, ladies rayon panties – 10 for $1, men’s briefs, shirts, and shorts – 4 for $1, wool felt hats – $1.”
50 YEARS AGO: “A running disagreement over water rights in Las Animas County led John Paulich to kill Kenneth Caudle in a gun battle while Caudle was attempting to meet with the county water commissioner. Paulich jumped from his truck and threatened Caudle with a .30-06 rifle, and Caudle drew a .22 pistol from inside his shirt and creased Paulich’s forehead with a shot. The men dodged and ducked, running around the truck, exchanging shots until one shot killed Caudle.”
25 YEARS AGO: “Durango Police: Resident at 1208 Florida Road reported that a rat fell off his patio into a window well at 9:45 a.m. Animal was found to be a mole and sent on its way.”
Most items in this column are taken from Herald archives, Center of Southwest Studies and The Animas Museum. Their accuracy may not be verified.
