Elaine Raines has been the librarian at the Arizona Daily Star for almost 30 years. While she does not claim to be a historian, she does have access to a treasure trove of great historical information.
"Tales from the Morgue" is a way to share some of that information with readers.
If you have an idea for a tale from Tucson's past that you would like to share, please e-mail morguetales@ azstarnet.com.
In July 1952, the Tucson Chamber of Commerce presented their list of the top 24 historical sites in town. They also announced they intended to place steel markers at each location. But, due to a steel shortage, that part of the plan was on hold.
The Tucson summer of ’42 was going to be a long, hot and dry one and not just due to the weather. Wartime restrictions and priorities on some metals caused a severe shortage of beer caps. But, that was not the only problem standing between beer drinkers and their brew.
Back in the 1930s, when work began on the new Catalina Highway, many Tucsonans began dreaming of a ski lodge on top of Mount Lemmon. Their hopes were only slightly dashed when a consultant told them “There is no use kidding ourselves. This is not snow country.”
On Trick or Treat night 1951, some of the tricks went a little too far for several residents and the Tucson police. In addition to the minor reports of vandalism, there were several instances that went beyond that. By the time the evening was over, several UA students had been arrested.
As most of the country experienced this past weekend, daylight savings time ended and it was necessary to move their clocks back to standard time. Here in Arizona, however, we have chosen not to participate in that timely scheme. That wasn’t always the case.
Wayne Newton, well-known for his long running show in Las Vegas, has appeared in Tucson on several different occasions. At least two of those performances did not sellout. And, neither of the shows received a very glowing review.
It was almost as good as a ticket to the World Series! In the 1920s and 30s, Tucson baseball fans could “watch” all the series action without leaving the Old Pueblo.
