A weekly look back compiled by the Clark County Historical Museum from The Columbian archives available at columbian.newspapers.com or at the museum.
- 100 years ago
The Salvation Army was busy the week before the winter holidays in 1922 “arranging for the distribution of Christmas baskets.” Luckily, the local organization had help from area high school students who collected “two truck loads of supplies” for the baskets, bound for communities in need. Coordinators noted the students’ help ensured the Salvation Army could create “good baskets” for everyone on its list.
- 75 years ago
On Dec. 23, 1947, the Broadway Theater and the Council of Community Agencies organized a “canned goods show” for local residents. Attendees donated canned goods, nonperishable food or cash in lieu of a ticket. Donations went to fill Yule baskets for families in need in Clark County. The following day, The Columbian reported the show was a resounding success, with an estimated 1,350 canned goods exchanged for tickets and people turned away at the door.
- 50 years ago
The Alki Junior Women’s Club and the Vancouver Parks and Recreation Department teamed up to recycle Christmas trees and collect donations to plant new trees in parks. The club asked that holiday trees be dropped off at one of three locations in Vancouver, and the parks department then turned them into much-needed mulch. Those dropping off their used Yuletide decor were also asked to give 50 cents toward planting new trees. In years past, this endeavor netted about $200.
