100 years ago: Opening of new Catholic school draws who’s who of Belleville Diocese

100 years ago, July 1, 1926

Considerable pomp marked the dedication of St. Clare’s new $82,000 parochial school building which was formally opened to the public on Sunday afternoon.

Rt. Rev. Bishop Henry Althoff, of the Belleville diocese, officiated personally at the ceremonies which were attended by 35 visiting priests and a large number of people from this and surrounding cities.

Simple, but impressive ceremonies marked the dedication of the new school, followed by a brief service at the priest’s house, completed several years ago but never officially dedicated.

The bishop and his staff of priests then returned to the church where Rev. Goelz, of French Village, delivered the dedication sermon during which he complimented the pastor, congregation and citizens in general for the accomplishment, which, he said, is a credit to the church as well as to the community.

Bishop Althoff also made a few brief remarks, thanking the people of the community who contributed and assisted in giving his Diocese one of the best and most up-to-date schools in this section of the state.

Rt. Rev. Msgr. J. Kaup, V. G., of Breese, was presbyter, Rev. E. Senese, of Herrin, deacon and Rev. J. Schreuder sub-deacon at the solemn benediction, which closed the dedication services.

After the church ceremony the event was celebrated with a picnic during which the O’Fallon band furnished music. The ladies of the church served a splendid supper to about 800 people.

Rev. A. W. Powell (pastor of St. Clare’s) desires to thank all those who assisted him in making the school a reality. He especially extends thanks to members of the congregation and many other citizens who contributed to the school building.

The building still exists as the old east wing of St. Clare School in O’Fallon. It is the oldest school building in O’Fallon still used for school purposes.

75 years ago, June 28, 1951

A motorist stopped by Chief of Police Nick Hemmer who fired a pistol shot to bring him to a stop pleaded guilty to reckless driving and was fined $10 and costs by Justice of the Peace James T. Holliday.

He is Paul Quinn, 19, of Koenigstein Heights. Hemmer said he was near East State and Vine streets last Friday night when the incident occurred. He said he heard Quinn approach at what the chief said was a high rate of speed. Hemmer said he ran into the street and waved for the driver to stop. When he continued on, the policeman stated he fired one shot from his pistol.

The bullet struck the rear door and Quinn came to a stop. Hemmer placed him under arrest and he was arraigned before Justice Holliday who assessed the fine.

Koenigstein Heights was the area around Behrens Drive in O’Fallon.

50 years ago, July 1, 1976

The nation celebrates its 200th birthday Sunday, July 4. 200 years of accomplishment, controversy and service to mankind.

All federal, state, county and local offices will observe the Bicentennial on Monday, July 5 with all offices closed.

The American Legion will be having its annual picnic July 3 and 4 at the O’Fallon Community Park. A fireworks display Sunday evening at the park beginning at dusk.