Out of the past 12/12/11

25 years ago: Dec. 12, 1986

The Southeast Missouri State University Board of Regents has accepted the resignation of Dr. August R. "Gus" Meyer, a top administrator at the university for 26 years; he will retire Dec. 31.

The dream of three Cape Girardeau fire chiefs for the past 15 years moved a step closer yesterday, when bids for a new aerial platform ladder fire truck were opened at city hall; the apparent low bid of $399,500 was submitted by Ladder Towers Inc. of Ephrata, Pa.

50 years ago: Dec. 12, 1961

Louis J. Schultz, for 26 years superintendent of Cape Girardeau's public schools, resigned his post last night, effective July 1, 1962; Schultz says his decision wasn't made with retirement in mind and that he may be engaged in other work.

O.G. Walker, chairman of the Southeast Missouri Boy Scout Council's camping and activities committee, has been awarded the Silver Beaver Award in recognition of his service.

75 years ago: Dec. 12, 1936

Through a resolution voted favorably upon by all members, the board of education has let a contract to E.A. Brunson Construction Co. of St. Louis for construction of the new two-story elementary school on the Old Lorimier School grounds; work will start about Jan. 1.

At a special meeting last night, the Cape Girardeau School Board decided to submit an application to the WPA for a grant to aid in the construction of a proposed gymnasium and auditorium at John S. Cobb School; the building would measure 66 by 100 feet.

100 years ago: Dec. 12, 1911

Contractor C.C. Hawley is figuring on installing a cofferdam along the riverfront in order to expedite the construction of the sea wall.

Dana Scott, an underwriter from Cincinnati, passes down on the Stacker Lee, going to the steamer Savannah, which sank in 12 feet of water near Elkins Landing Dec. 5; he will inspect the goods that have been salvaged from the wreck to arrive at the amount of damages sustained; it is reported a large amount of baled cotton remains in the boat's hold.

-- Sharon K. Sanders