100 years ago, 1909

One of the real comedy vaudeville hits of the year will be the headline act at the Empire today and the next two days of the week. This act is the famous Minstrel Four, vaudeville’s latest hit and one of the big cards of today. Introducing four French boys, James Baradi, Fred DeForest, Ed DeForest and Jack Billisbere. Although these boys are French, their famous comedy sensation is in English, introducing all the important features of a first part in minstrelsy, new and clever songs, local puns and up-to-date jokes. It will be one of the most pleasing novelties ever seen here in vaudeville and well worth the interest the act has thus far excited.

50 years ago, 1959

A new corporation has been formed to take over the candy business founded and operated for several years by Lucien and Yvonne Hamann of Lewiston. The corporation is Lou-Rod Candy Inc. of which Nelson L. Page of Bridgton, formerly of Auburn, is president. Roger A. Stearns of Auburn is the treasurer and Attorney John A. Platz, the corporation clerk.
The new corporation has taken over the business and real estate of Lou-Rod Co. and will continue the same line of needhams and candies, with Hamann remaining as the candy maker.

25 years ago, 1984

Auburn Water and Sewer District Superintendent Earle Tarr told the Sewer District trustees this week that work on sewer lines on Washington Street is progressing. Tarr said sewer lines have been installed up to the Martin Manor and across Hardscrabble Road. But the crews hit ledge at Allied Road, stalling work until a ledge crew can be brought in.
Tarr said the project, which will provide city sewer to Allied Container, John Martin and Globe Albany, should be complete by late summer.