Monthly Archives: April 2024

Corky Meyer, test pilot

Corky Meyer got serious about building and flying model airplanes while a student at Springfield High School in 1936. He had no way to guide his models, though, so he had to chase them by car until they ran out … Continue reading

Posted in Air travel, Airport, Military, Transportation | Leave a comment

Kayport Package Express implodes, 1983

Founder F. George Celani called Kayport Package Express a “41-day miracle” when the shipping startup went into business at Capital Airport on March 1, 1983. About 1,200 Springfield dignitaries attended the ceremony, which included champagne, a high-school band and a … Continue reading

Posted in Airport, Business, Crime and vice, Law enforcement, Spectacles, Transportation | Leave a comment

Frank P. Richards, wood carver

In the early 20th century, Frank P. Richards would display his patriotic wood carvings on the front lawn of his home at 1160 Elliott Ave. every Fourth of July. Soldiers from nearby Camp Lincoln would salute as they marched past. … Continue reading

Posted in Arts and letters, Business, Industry, Museums, Native Americans | Leave a comment

‘Bock Beer Day’, 1870s-’80s

“Today is Bock Beer Day, and the boys will all imbibe freely of the foaming extract of hops,” the Illinois State Journal predicted the morning of May 1, 1882. It didn’t always end happily for “the boys.” Bock beer is … Continue reading

Posted in Breweries, Business, Celebrations, Crime and vice, Hotels & taverns, Law enforcement, Social life | Leave a comment

Buster Bartholomew, coach & educator

As an athlete, Buster Bartholomew was a one-armed wonder. But he made his mark as a coach, teacher and booster of country schools. Homer “Buster” Bartholomew (1891-1943), born in Tuscola, was the son of Charles and Susan Myrtle Bartholomew. His … Continue reading

Posted in Education, Prominent figures, Schools and school districts, Sports and recreation | 1 Comment