140 years ago

july 18, 1879

Mr. W.C. Lockwood is preparing to build a fine two story stone building with basement, 50x80 feet in dimension, adjoining Mrs. Tamiet’s building on the west.

E.T. Howe has bought the northeast quarter of the beautiful plat on the hill formerly known as the public square, and has commenced the erection of a fine two story stone residence thereon.

A fine cannon will be purchased in particular and for all future celebrations in general. Marion Centre is getting “above” the anvil business.

Another old land mark will disappear next week. The old livery stable opposite Costello’s store will be torn down to make room for Lockwood’s fine store block.

Farewell, old building. You are a relic of the past. Like the buffalo, antelope and stage coach and pack mule, you are out of date.

The swarms of curbstone philosophers who have congregated under your roof every Sunday to crack jokes and fight flies will have to seek some other loafing place.

Farewell old barn we are glad to see you go. You are a warp-sided, sway-backed, moss-covered, dilapidated, unsightly old wreck anyhow.