From The Clarkston News archives

25 years ago – 1995
“Record numbers for building permits” Independence Township’s 295 building permits issued in 1994 blew away 1993’s mark of 258. While all the counters weren’t in yet, the township’s building department felt the effects of increased population and growth.
“Auto students check out the ‘Hummer’” The Humvee, or Hummer, a military vehicle made famous by Desert Storm made a stop at Clarkston High School’s auto shop. Army recruiter Sgt. Phillip Molangi brought it so auto students could get a look at it and he took talk about careers in the Army.
“Collecting turned to craving for antique dealer” Jon Abbott had been collecting carousel memorabilia since he first got hooked at a collectibles auction 20 years prior. His most stunning pieces were “standers” – carved wooden carousel figures which don’t go up and down.

50 years ago – 1970
“Heater ignites scaffolding” A fire broke out at the building site of the Vocational High School on Dixie Highway. A salamander stove used to dry the mortar in brick work ignited planks in the scaffolding. Damage was estimated to be $25.
“Approved” The Independence Township Board gave the recreation department approval to install an ice rink on the Mill Pond. The village agreed with the plan and the township was providing the cleaning power, pump and money for supervision.
“Around the town” Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Drake and their sons, Tom and Jeff, returned from vacation in Palm Beach, Florida. One of the highlights of the trip was a midnight swim on New Year’s Eve.

75 years ago – 1945
“Our boys and girls in the service” Edward H. Simerson of the Coast Artillery returned to Fort Story, Virginia, after enjoying a short furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Chas Simerson of Andersonville Road.
“Young folks have tobogganing party” The Junior Youth Fellowship of the Clarkston United Methodist Church enjoyed a tobogganing party on Ford Hill. There were 14 who attended along with three counselors.
“Boy Scout news” The Boy Scouts of Clarkston took an overnight hike to Ortonville State Park. They stayed in a large ranger cabin which had a fireplace and a kitchen stove. A toboggan and several pair of skis provided outdoor activities.

  A Look Back, Peek in the Past