100 years ago, 1912
With a smashing drive, which sent the small white golf ball whizzing through the rain a distance of 80 yards, President Taft introduced himself to the Poland Spring golf links at 10 o’clock this morning. With that drive, the President made it clear to the audience, which braved the downpour to witness the event, that golf was his sure game. The President is delighted with Poland Spring. He pronounces it one of the most charming spots in the world.

50 years ago, 1962
There are probably enough adequate fall out shelters in the Twin Cities to house some 25,000 persons, the Androscoggin County Civil Defense organization said today. Androscoggin County is likely one of the most advanced counties in the nation with its shelter program and certainly is the most advanced in this state, most will agree. CD Director Normand J. Vermette indicated that due to the Cuban crisis, the shelter program would probably be speeded up. In Lewiston there are shelters which can house 4,540 persons for a period of two weeks in the above 100 capacity category. All of the other Lewiston shelters, which would house 10,266, are under 100 capacity. Auburn has room for some 11,000 people.

25 years ago, 1987
Ward Bros., the upscale women’s department store that is a Lisbon Street landmark, has been sold to a local development firm, but it will always be a big part of downtown’s history. Israel Ward persuaded his brother, Nathan, to join him in an 11- by 30-foot store on Lisbon Street 58 years ago (1929). Eventually a third brother, Milton, joined the business. Israel’s son, Lawrence J., began his career with the company as a child, picking up pins as he followed his father around. The store’s slogan that became famous in the 1940s was “We Ward Brothers do not exaggerate.” The business would expand four times in its first 18 years and employ 70 people by 1947.