Pages past — Nov. 20

On this date …

1972: An early-morning fire caused extensive damage to the Thunderbird No. 2 restaurant at 221 Prince. Building co-owner Wandel Massey said damage was between $8,000 and $10,000. Fire Chief Joe Maddox said the fire started in the area of the deep fryers.

1969: Four Curry County 4-Hers received awards for outstanding leadership abilities: Karen Locknane, Terry Leatherwood, Connie Stagner and Alvin Brown.

1954: Clovis pet owners were urged to keep them confined and vaccinated to protect against rabies. A child had recently been bitten by a rabid dog and officials were reminding residents that 22 animals had died from rabies in February 1954. Rabies shots were effective for one year, said Veterinarian E.E. Kraus.

Famous from here …

Charles Steed homesteaded in Clovis in 1905. He and Clayton Reed built the first business in the new town, a real estate office. He established the Charles V. Steed Funeral Service Parlors in 1907 at 112 W. Grand. He died of a heart attack in June 1938 at age 63. An unknown friend memorialized his life with a poem: Friend of the friendless/ In the time of need/ A life of service/ Lived this pioneer Steed. He fought death bravely/ As only pioneers can/ Far and near they’re mourning/ The passing of a man.

Their business …

1975: Pauline’s clothing store, at 311 Main, was preparing for its grand opening with a daily drawing for a free pant suit. Most items were priced at $4 to $6, with nothing more than $6, promotional advertising claimed.

Pages Past is compiled by Clovis News Journal Editor David Stevens. Contact him at:

[email protected]