100 years ago: “The ‘Gem’ theater opened its doors to the public for its initial performance, within a very short time the S.R.O. sign had to be hung out. Proprietor J.O. Taylor obtained the services of the Durango band to advertise the opening of the new place of pleasure.”
75 years ago: An advertisement for Gardenswartz, Richey Store and Wilson Hardware read: “Announcing the sale of fireworks beginning June 25 out-of-town customers may buy their fireworks. Durango people may by fireworks beginning June 28. No layaways necessary. Observe safety first the Fourth.”
50 years ago: Mesa Verde – “Saturday morning Mesa Verde National Park welcomed its three millionth visitor since the park opened 57 years ago. Dr. and Mrs. Alfred Yood of Arlington, Mass., came into the park on a cross country tour which will take them from their home to Monterey, Calif. The Yoods were presented a free pass to enter the park and after their official greeting were taken on a special tour of the park.”
25 years ago: “High teenage pregnancy rates in La Plata County have prompted a Durango group to discuss starting a student resource center at Durango High School. The La Plata County Coalition for the Prevention of Teenage Pregnancy began about a year ago in response to the high pregnancy rate.”
Most items in this column are taken from Herald archives, Center of Southwest Studies and Animas Museum. Their accuracy may not have been verified.
