May 9
By Holly Kozelsky and Pat Pion
100 Years ago – 1924
Farmers were discouraged over the prospect of tobacco as blue mold was ruining early plantings. It did more damage to tobacco beds than at any time since 1945, Henry County Agricultura Conservation Association Secretary Jesse Frank Wilson reported.
75 years ago – 1949
The Martinsville Wholesale Grocery Co. was organized, with articles of incorporation filed with the State Corporation Commission. Officers were W.M. Carter, James McFarland and Elizabeth M. Dalton. It leased a brick building owned by Lester Lumber Co., at intersection of Franklin, Jones and Liberty streets. It planned to carry a general line of groceries, heavy feed and other merchandise.
1960
Irisburg Elementary School held its annual May Day program, consisting of the traditional Maypole, folk rhythms, calisthenics, stunts and races. The activity culminated the rhythm portion of the physical education program.
Forest Park Country Club was the site of the annual Martinsville High School Kiwanis-Senior Class dinner meeting. Over 200 Kiwanians, seniors and faculty members enjoyed the banquet and program including the male vocal quartet directed by Ruth Pace, choral director, and soloist Miss Janet Massey.
50 years ago – 1974
The Woman’s Christian Temperance Union, which was formed in 1874 and strong in advocating against alcoholic beverages before and during Prohibition, was still active in Henry County. A recent monthly program it held was at the home of Mrs. Paul Moore in Ridgeway, with the theme “Youth Our Greatest Asset.” Mrs. Ralph Spencer was the president.
25 years ago – 1999
Hooker Field had just unveiled its new playing surface – Sports Grass, a blend of grass and synthetics. A synthetic base protected the roots of the bluegrass, which had been seeded over land that was graded, drained and implemented with better soil, at a cost of $180,000 ($105,000 from the city and $75,000 from the Houston Astros). Carper Cole was the general manager for the Martinsville Astros, whose season would start in a month. The first players to get to use it were from Martinsville and Laurel Park high schools.
— Information from museum records and the Henry Bulletin and the Martinsville Bulletin accessed on microfilm at the Martinsville Branch Library.