100 years ago, 1909

While suffering from what is believed is a temporary fit of insanity, a Bates Street man left his home last night and clad only in his night clothes started to walk about the city. Some of his relatives discovered his absence and started out after him. The police were notified and several officers also went on the trail. The result was that the man soon was located and brought to the station and put in the padded cell. Relatives say that he is subject to these attacks and think that he will be all right today.

50 years ago, 1959

Negotiations for the opening of the first semi-department store in Auburn were completed yesterday with the signing of a 20-year lease involving Center Street property.

The property at 120 Center St. has been leased by the Fantastic Fair Store of Boston, which has stores in Maine and Massachusetts. The store will carry a complete self-service department for the entire family and is expected to open about Nov. 1.

25 years ago, 1984

The Auburn Planning Board Tuesday night approved a $1-million apartment complex to be built off Center Street.

After the hearing, developer Paul Sasseville said he expects to break ground “within 30 days.” He is expecting the first apartment building to be built by the spring, and the second to be completed in the summer. One will house 28 one-bedroom apartments and the other 20 two-bedroom apartments.