OLD ORCHARD – Seventeen summer hotels, 60 cottages and a score of buildings occupied by stores were burned tonight in a fire that swept the eastern section of this town, along the shore, causing a loss estimated at $500,000. All buildings were of wooden construction and were, therefore, an easy and quick prey of the flames, which spread with remarkable swiftness, reducing to ashes a section of half 100 acres within three hours. The burned area extends from Old Orchard Avenue eastward between Milliken Street and the beach for nearly half a mile. Destroyed were some of the finest guest houses and private residences of this popular resort.

50 years ago, 1957

• A record high tax rate of 57½ mills, based on the biggest operating budget in the city’s history, was announced yesterday afternoon by the Lewiston Board of Assessors. The new tax rate, up 2½ mills from last year’s level, means taxpayers will pay an extra $2.50 on every $1,000 worth of taxable personal and real estate property.

• Traces of leukemia have disappeared from the bloodstream of a 20-month-old girl who received marrow from her twin sister, a suburban hospital reported today. It may be the first successful marrow transplant, the attending physician said.

25 years ago, 1982

• America’s easternmost state has a dilemma. There are between 52,000 and 60,000 acres of oats waving in the northern breeze on the plains of Aroostook County this summer. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Maine oats command the lowest price in the nation – an average in 1981 of $1.40 per bushel, compared with between $1.80 and $2.10 in Midwestern states.

• Five years after his death, Elvis Presley remains an idol to his fans and a patron saint to merchandisers cashing in on his popularity. The enduring appeal of the swivel-hipped rock ‘n’ roll king has profited many, including those operating his Graceland estate.