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
Vancouver’s newest theater, the Society Theatre, opened Feb. 5, 1925. Located at 23rd and Main streets, the “handsome” stucco and concrete building featured “the very latest in modern systems of ventilation and heating.” The uptown theater, which had a seating capacity of 616, would show “Captain Blood” on its opening night. (The theater now houses the offices of law firm Vancouver Defenders.)
- 75 years ago
At a Feb. 8, 1950, chamber of commerce meeting, the Vancouver Business and Professional Women’s club received the Governor’s Safety Award. Presented by Robert Schoettler, personal assistant to Gov. Arthur Langlie, the honor recognized the group’s work on traffic safety over the previous year. The club’s safety program included the sponsorship of a parade, promoting careful driving and raising awareness about being a good pedestrian. The group competed with 12 other organizations also focused on traffic safety.
- 50 years ago
On Feb. 6, 1975, 50 people met at the Marshall Community Center to discuss forming a cooperative to support seniors, unemployed folks and other persons on fixed incomes during a gloomy period in the economy. Specifically, the group wanted to buy bulk foods at wholesale prices and “pass those savings on.” Co-op members could also donate time and skills, which could be swapped for goods or services from another member, said George Schultz, one of the individuals behind the effort.
