100 years ago: “There are at this time many newcomers from distant states looking over the various sections of the great San Juan Basin with a view of either buying or taking up land. To these, as well as to many who are residents here, the Herald wishes to say that in no section of the U.S. of which we have knowledge can land be secured so cheaply that will return a large reward for tillage as right here.”

75 years ago: “Durango High School’s music organizations and individuals have continued their march of triumph at the state contests in Pueblo. The high school band, under direction of Al C. Ruland, won a Division 1 rating in marching and maneuvering.”

50 years ago: “Twenty-two Girl Scouts spent the weekend at the Irwin Lechners’ Youth Hostel at Rockwood. The girls were the first group to use the hostel, which has its official opening May 28. ... Mrs. Lechner has done much of the work herself in remodeling a sturdy, old log cabin into an approved youth hostel – this in between chores for several hundred mink that are scheduled to give birth any minute.”

25 years ago: “Durango Police Chief Chris Wiggins announced he will be retiring from his post effective June 3, concluding 29 years of service with the police department.”

Most items in this column are taken from Herald archives, Center of Southwest Studies and Animas Museum. Their accuracy may not be verified.