25 years ago: Of all the events at the 4-H and FFA Fair, the biggest draw was the tractor pulling contest. Some of the most powerful tractors and best drivers in the county competed in the event that lasted for several hours on Saturday and drew an estimated 1,500 spectators. Along with the standard or stock tractors was a division of "hot rod" tractors, usually built with a V-8 automobile engine and restricted in physical appearance only by the builder's imagination. -- the Carroll Record, Aug. 16, 1973.

50 years ago: The proposed consolidation of three of Westminster's banks -- Westminster Savings Bank, Farmers and Mechanic National Bank of Westminster, and First National Bank of Westminster -- was announced yesterday. Assets of the merged institution, to be known as Carroll County National Bank of Westminster, would be in excess of $41 million. -- Democratic Advocate, Aug. 20, 1948.

75 years ago: Hauling back to its original site the Sam's Creek bridge, which was washed several hundred yards downstream by the high water in Frederick and Carroll counties last week, began last Monday. Work on other bridges damaged by the high water has also begun. -- Democratic Advocate, Aug. 17, 1923.

100 years ago: The largest crowd ever to invade Taneytown was Wednesday, the occasion of the firemen's parade and picnic. It is probable that the visitors numbered 1,500. The procession paraded through town and then went out to the picnic ground, in Harry M. Clabaugh's grove. -- Democratic Advocate, Aug. 20, 1898.

Pub Date: 8/16/98