This day in history: May 23

1883

The State sold the basin, bounded by South Ann and East Mill streets, (Clinton Park) to the village for one dollar. The basin had used the Inland Canal as a feeder, and was connected to the Erie Canal via the Aqueduct so boats could satisfy the needs of the “North-Side” merchants. The old Inland Canal was gradually filled in. The people continued to use what was once the basin as a dump.

1902

The handsome new home of Irving E. Stacey on Waverly place is about completed and Mr. and Mrs. Stacey have begun moving into it. It is a fine ornament to that locality. Currently, it is the home of Mr. and Mrs. Martin Babinec.

1905

Hallinan Bros. have completed their contract of blasting and leveling the rock on the five acre plot on east Burwell Street. The “Girvan Square,” as it is called, is to provide a playground for the city. The rock will have a covering of dirt and will then be level and well adapted for baseball and other sports. The contractors receive $600 for the job.

1969

There were a wide variety of exhibits by local businesses and manufacturers at the “Know Your City “ Show at the high school gymnasium. More than 3,000 residents and 1,000 students filed through the elaborate and comprehensive displays.

This day in history: May 24

1933

The verdict was against the 18th amendment as the anti-prohibitionists carried the city by a 2003 to 188 vote for repeal of the Dry Law.

1970

In a letter read at Sunday Masses at St. Mary’s Church, it was made known that the high school department of St. Mary’s Academy will be closed at the end of the current school year.