150 years ago
1874
Philomath College: We have received from the job printing office of E.M. Waite, at Salem, a copy of the annual catalogue of the Philomath College, of this State. It is neatly executed and contains some very interesting statistics. The following are the names of the Faculty: Rev. R.E. Williams, A.B., President and Professor of Mental and Moral Science and Languages; Miss Mary Lawrence, Principal of Primary Department, and Mrs. L.D. Williams, Teacher of Drawing and Painting. Two Departments — Mathematics and Music — remain unsupplied. Over one hundred pupils were in constant attendance during the last collegiate year, with much more flattering prospects for the year to come. (Published Aug. 22, 1874, in the Morning Oregonian, Portland).
125 years ago
1899
Philomath tragedy: The peaceful, dreamy little town of Philomath had its usual quiet rudely disturbed last Saturday afternoon by a report brought in that a tragedy had occurred at the home of E.B. Dutcher, a recent arrival, and the evidence pointed to murder. Investigation brought out the fact that Mrs. Dutcher had died from poisoning and the circumstances surrounding the case demanded the attention of the coroner. … The statements of the husband and other witnesses brought out a pathetic story of domestic unhappiness, a home where father and mother had long since ceased to love and where respect for each other had dwindled into mere tolerance. … There was no evidence, as has been published, to implicate the husband in the woman’s taking off. That is no physical violence or mysterious methods, no act which woud bring him within the grasp of the law. (Published Aug. 25, 1899, in the Corvallis Union-Gazette).
100 years ago
1924
‘Eyesore’ removed: The old school building, located on Main street, was at last considered an eyesore and inadequate for the needs of the coming generation. So it was replaced by a bungalow, which will accommodate all grades below the seventh. A play shed is being erected, which will add greatly to the comfort of the children. (Published Aug. 24, 1924, in the Oregon Journal, Portland).
Postmaster search: It may be some time yet before a change is made in the Philomath post office, the four applicants for the postmastership having failed in their examinations. (Published Aug. 25, 1924, in the Oregon Journal, Portland).
75 years ago
1949
School enrollment: One of the largest enrollments in the history of Benton county is due at elementary and high schools in a few days, points out Helen P. Baker, county superintendent of schools. The regular fall opening of the schools will vary somewhat but generally most of the schools will open September 12, with schools at Mt. View, Philomath and Corvallis starting September 6. … In reviewing the changes which have taken place among schools of the county during the past two years, Mrs. Baker lists the consolidations that have taken place. The list includes Harris, Pleasant Valley and Evergreen with Philomath; Alexander with Wren; Nois with Blodgett. … Friday night this week there will be a vote on consolidation of Wren with Philomath. (Published Aug. 25, 1949, in the Benton County Herald).
40 years ago
1984
Hammer throw: John Thomas, Philomath, won the hammer throw Saturday in the Junior Pan-Am Games in Nassau, Bahamas. His winning toss was 168-0. (Published Aug. 26, 1984, in the Statesman-Journal, Salem).
Eugene triathlon: Michael Miner of Philomath won the men’s division of the second YMCA Track Capital Triathlon Sunday in Eugene in 2:08.16.
Football schedule: Sept. 7 at Cascade; Sept. 14 vs. Elmira; Sept. 21 vs. Taft; Sept. 27 at Central Linn; Oct. 5 vs. Jefferson; Oct. 11 at Toledo; Oct. 19 vs. Central; Oct. 26 vs. Chemawa; Nov. 2 at Newport. (Editor’s note: The Warriors finished 4-5). (Published Aug. 22, 1984, in the Oregonian, Portland).