Lori Taylor’s LOOKING BACK

100 YEARS AGO – MAY 7, 1920

Olney grew until today it can no longer be confined to its little trade territory. It is expanding and developing. Its railroad facilities are being increased, its business houses are growing, its capabilities as a commercial center are demanding attention and it is today but a question of time until it will have surpassed anything in this section of development. Another railroad line is now operating through Olney which gives direct connections to the east and west the trunk line of the Gulf Texas and Western. This road operates from Mineral Wells to Seymour, through one of the most fertile agricultural sections in West Texas.

75 YEARS AGO – MAY 4, 1945

Hugh Nelson & Clifton Key are Honored Seniors

Hugh Nelson and Clifton Key were named as Valedictorian and Salutatorian, respectively, of the Senior Class of Olney High School, according to Otis Bourns, high school principal. Nelson, the son of Mr. and Mrs. B. M. Nelson, made an average of 95.117, while Key’s average was 94.842 percent. The difference in their average is only 0.275. Key is the son of Mr. and Mrs. G. A. Key of Olney, and both boys have actively participated in extracurricular activities during their high school work.

50 YEARS AGO-MAY 7, 1970

Soil Stewardship Week Celebrated in County

Young County Soil Conservation Service is participating this week in the nationwide observance of Soil Stewardship Week. Soil Stewardship Week is set aside to remind all citizens of their responsibilities to and dependence on the soil and the nation’s natural resources. Several Olney ministers participated in the observance Sunday by delivering sermons on soil stewardship. The SCS emphasizes the necessity to respond to changes taking place in the nation’s environment by renewing these resources – soil, water, air, forests, fish, and wildlife.

25 YEARS AGO-MAY 4, 1995

Rodeo Plans in the Works

Plans for the annual Olney Rodeo are being completed according to Chuck Calvin, president of the Rodeo Association. The rodeo parade will kick the activities off at 5 p.m. Friday. Olney Lions Club will operate the concession stand at the rodeo and have a hamburger supper at the rodeo grounds, located two miles east of Highway 114, following the rodeo parade. A dance will be held Saturday night following the rodeo with the band RiverSide of Vernon performing.