• Aug. 22, 1946

In spite of the fact that not quite as much livestock was exhibited as in former years, a very successful O’Brien County 4-H livestock show was brought to conclusion with the annual baby beef sale. Both the grand and reserve champions in the baby beef class were awarded to Hartley entries. Gloria Albright showed the grand champion, a Hereford, while the reserve champion, an Angus, was shown by Jay Meiske.

The crack Milwaukee meat train en route to Sioux Falls, S.D. was delayed when one of the cars was derailed as the train approached the Hartley city limits. Fortunately the car remained upright and on the roadbed, and a local crew was able to get it on a siding so the train could continue on its way.

• Aug. 19, 1971

At an impressive ceremony, the Ten Acre Park south of the Hartley business district was renamed Neebel Park. Elmer Neebel was on the town council when the tract was purchased in 1949. During the years before the area was officially declared a town park, he planted and cared for most of the trees that were offering abundant shade.

Mayor Harold Bojens died at the age of 68. He had served on the town council for a number of years before being elected mayor in 1969. Prior to his retirement in May of 1971, Mayor Bojens was manager of the National Food Store in Hartley for 28 years.

In an effort to keep the area safe, members of the Hartley FFA Chapter and Advisor Harold Woodard cut corn at 11 dangerous intersections. The chapter encouraged area farmers to cut back corn at other intersections where views were obstructed.

• Aug. 22, 1996

Pastor David E. Ericksen was installed as pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Prior to coming to Hartley, Pastor Dave had served Immanuel Lutheran Church at Rockwell City for 15 years. He had also served a dual parish at Wymore, Neb. and Summerfield, Kan.

The remaining members of the Hartley city council were split on the appointment of Charles Schnack to fill a council vacancy. Ron Hengeveld and Walt Ronnfeldt voted in favor of Schnack’s appointment to fill the seat previously held by Bev Heimsoth, while Doug Hoaglund and Clayton Pyle were opposed.

Hartley Municipal Cable System was joining Community Cable Television, of Sanborn and Primghar, in sharing costs of a feasibility study for upgraded broadband communications facilities. Hartley’s share of the study was $6,068. A final report was expected by the first of the year.

“From Our Files” is compiled by Sentinel-News sports editor/staff writer Mike Petersen.