A Look Back December 1961

By Wally Peel

U.S., British Summit Talks

     The Congo.  Berlin.  Nuclear Testing.  Those were some of the tough topics covered during U.S., British summit talks between President Kennedy and British Prime Minister Macmillan.    

     The two leaders discussed whether or not any world curb on nuclear explosions could be enforced, and whether western allies, especially the United States, could afford to continue the self imposed ban in face of the Soviet Union’s enormous series of tests that showered the skies with radioactive debris.

     Kennedy and Macmillan sought to reach broad agreement on a policy for coping with Communist threats in Southeast Asia as well as Berlin.

     On the topic of Berlin, the two leaders agreed upon the position the West should take to negotiate a peaceful solution with Moscow.

    The next step toward the resolution of some of these difficult matters would be talks between U.S. Ambassador Llewellyn Thompson and Soviet Foreign Andrei Gromyko. 

Does This Sound Familiar? 

     Fearful of an Iraqi move against the sheikdom of Kuwait, Britain put troops and an aircraft carrier on alert for possible duty in the Middle East.

     Informed sources said the British government was concerned over intelligence reports of renewed threats by Iraqi Premier Abd al-Karim Qasim to annex oil-rich Kuwait.

     Britain was bound by treaty to protect the tiny country.  Kuwait had been a British protectorate.   They withdrew their forces when the Arab League, despite Iraq’s objections, sent 2,000 troops to Kuwait to protect it.

     A spokesman said the carrier Centaur was ready to sail to the Middle East on eight hours notice. 

     Troops were reported to be standing by to be flown from Nairobi, Kenya if needed.

Bible Burning in Montana

     Should the Bible be banned from Montana Public School libraries? 

     It seemed likely the Montana Supreme Court would have to decide that question. 

     The matter came to light when Darby District School Superintendent Orville La Rowe removed five Gideon Bibles from the Darby School and burned them. 

     “They were practically worn out,” La Rowe explained.  “Under Montana law as I understand it,” he continued, “the Gideon Bibles were sectarian publications and should not be replaced.

     The town of Darby was pretty well divided over the issue, with some wanting the Bibles replaced while others opposed such action.  The Darby Parent-Teacher Association was seeking Attorney General Forest H. Anderson’s opinion.

     Addressing the issue, a member of the Montana Supreme Court who wished not to be identified, pointed out that the use of Gideon Bibles in public schools in New Jersey was declared unconstitutional by that state’s Supreme Court.

     Public Instruction Superintendent Harriet Miller said the Darby case had been called to her attention.  She believed it was a matter for school district officials to decide.  Miller then quoted state school law:

     “No publication of a sectarian or denominational character shall be used or distributed in any school, or made part of any school library, nor shall any sectarian or denominational doctrine be taught there.”

     Another state official, speaking off  the record, said “I don’t see any reason why the Bible can’t be regarded as one of the world’s great pieces of literature, and be so accepted  by those who object to it from a religious viewpoint. “  He concluded by saying “If these extremists are going to keep Bibles out of school libraries, the next step will be to take “God” out of the pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.”

     Keep in mind this story was making headlines 50 years ago.

Nutter Skeptical of Bonneville Plan

     A plan formulated to assure Northwest users that they would have first call on Bonneville power produced in the region was met with skepticism by Governor Donald Nutter. 

     After reading a statement issued by a Bonneville administrator that said no power would be sold until regional needs were supplied, Nutter said, “I see that the proposal for protecting this region has been sent to Secretary Udall for his approval. It provides for a seven day pull-back of export energy in the event of a power shortage here,”

     The Governor went on to say, “Congress can enact such legislation, but there is nothing to stop congress from later nullifying that legislation.” 

     He said if there was a way to insure sufficient power at all times, he might feel differently.

     Nutter said protecting the interests of Montana was his first consideration, 

     The British had partially confirmed information they had received which indicated the possibility of increased tension during the Christmas season.  They made it clear that the measures taken were precautionary.

Fragrant Cars

     Chrysler Corporation was looking to the future as it displayed an experimental turbine drive auto in New York.  Officials said they planned to put such cars in the hands of a select few customers the following year.

     If tests were successful, the automotive giant planned to produce turbine cars in volume within five years.       

     Chrysler’s turbine cars were a radical departure from the conventional piston drive vehicles.  The engines had about a fifth as many parts. They did not require oil changes, and did not need antifreeze.

     George Huebner, an executive engineer at Chrysler, said the gas turbine cars would run on any fuel that could run through a pipe and burn with air, adding that turbine cars could even run on French Perfume.

     Had perfume fueled cars caught on, we might have been driving Dodge Delphiniums, Desoto Dahlias, Plymouth Petunias, and Chrysler Chrysanthemums.

A Christmas Lesson for All

     In Kingsport, Tennessee a young newsboy kept walking past a Salvation Army collection kettle.  On each trip the lad dropped in 2 cents.

     An Exchange Club member manning the kettle finally figured out what was happening.  The boy was donating his two cent profit from the sale of each paper.  To confirm his suspicion, the man bought a paper, leaving a 5 cent tip.  Minutes later the boy came back and dropped 7 cents in the kettle.

     It turned out that the boy’s family had received a Christmas basket the year before.  The donations were the boy’s way of giving to help others in need.

     The Kingsport Exchange Club had the newsboy as a special guest at a luncheon.  As a matter of family privacy he was introduced only as Gary.  He left the luncheon with a new bicycle, new jacket, and a savings account book with $60 on deposit for his future education. 

     Salvation Army records showed that he was one of five children aged 2 to 13 whose parents worked irregularly and had a top income of $57 a month.

     Gary’s teacher said he almost never missed a day of school, and often shared what he had with others less fortunate than he.

Weatherman Arrested for Bad Forecasting

      What happens when the TV Weatherman (or woman) gets the forecast wrong?   

     In most cases, not much.  Being a very recognizable person, the public might give him or her a bad time.

     In this Channel 12 Weatherman’s case, things got a bit more serious.  He got the forecast wrong not once…not twice…but TEN nights in a row.

     His erroneous prognostications were a source of frustration for the Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Department. 

     They did what they had to do.  They came to the station and arrested him while he was on the air. 

     He was handcuffed, and taken to the County Jail.   For his climatic crimes he was booked on a charge of “Bad Weather Forecasting”.

     It has been 42 years since his arrest.  Now out of the forecasting business, he no longer makes twice daily trips to the Weather Service at the airport for weather information.  He now gets his weather information by watching Ellen Bacca on Beartooth News at 6 and 10. 

     Can you guess who this former Channel 12 Weatherman is? Submit your guess in the Comment Box.

Welcome 1962

     Father Time was on the way.  Folks in Helena were ready to welcome in the New Year.

     There were plenty of places to go to celebrate the arrival of 1962.

     The Russell Jones Duo was playing at the Capri Lounge.

     Some dined, and then danced to the music of the Eddie LaMere Combo at the Night Owl.

     Others greeted the New Year by listening to the musical stylings of Marilyn Davey at Tracy’s Lounge.

     The Morgan’s were appearing at the Korner Bar.

     Others had a great time dancing to the Rhythm Rangers at the Eagle’s Gala New Years Eve Party.

     The countdown was on to ring in the New Year at the White Mill.  Bob Bartmess and the Bob ‘N Aires were playing there.  (Anyone remember their hit record “26 Wheels”?  The Flipside was “Broken Heart Fix –It Shop.”)

     Ray and Kay were entertaining at the Elks Club.  Cover charge for their New Years Eve Dance was $1 per couple.

     On New Year’s Day the Bank Club invited folks to stop by and watch the Tournament of Roses Parade, the Sugar Bowl and the Rose Bowl on their COLOR TV in the Lower Lounge.

     The New Placer offered four dinner specials.  Baked Chicken with sage dressing for $2.50, a New York Cut Steak for $2.75, Prime Rib for $3 and a Lobster dinner for $4. 

     The Year 1962 definitely received a warm welcome in Helena, Montana.

Also In the News………

     Amateur Golf Champion Jack Nicklaus turned pro so that he could compete in the $50,000 Los Angeles Open Golf Tournament. 

      Emile Griffith cleared the way for his third title bout with welterweight champ Benny “Kid” Paret by outpointing Cuba’s Isaac Logart at St. Nicholas Arena in New York. 

     A new supply of natural gas began flowing into the state when the Montana Power Company opened up a new 60 mile transmission pipeline between Carway, Alberta and Cut Bank. The new supply would meet the increasing needs of customers. 

Warning to Santa    Responding to the controversy of the reduction of the Yellowstone Park elk herd, the owner of a Livingston sporting goods store purchased an ad in the local paper, warning Santa of impending danger.  The ad read…”Warning to Santa:  When you come to Livingston, be sure when you cross Yellowstone Park to ride plenty high.  We don’t want Rudolph and his brothers shot.” 

       Montana cowboy Benny Reynolds edged out Dean Oliver, Guy Weeks and Tom Nesmith to capture the World Champion All Around Cowboy title at the National Finals Rodeo in Dallas.  The shy cowpoke from Melrose first gained national prominence when he appeared on the television show “Name That Tune”. 

     Great Falls firemen attribute a small residential blaze to an overheated stove that was improperly vented in the attic, and bad electrical wiring.  Wouldn’t you know it…the home was that of the City Building Inspector.

    The Vacancy sign went up at the Great Falls City Jail.  All cells were empty.  Officers anticipated “business as usual” by the New Year’s Weekend.

     We got our first look at the newest dance sensation…The Twist.  Cummins Dance Studio and the Marlow Theatre sponsored as Twist Contest during the showing of Elvis Presley’s “Blue Hawaii”.  Students from Helena High and Carroll competed on the Marlow stage, with the winners to be announced by Pat Pattee on KCAP’s “Left Bank Show”.

Here at the Station………

     Kitty was abducted by a mountaineer who had marriage on his mind on “Gunsmoke”.    

     Sarah’s enthusiasm about attending a faculty-freshmen reception wasn’t shared by her classmates, so she came up with a plan to turn the traditionally dull affair into an exciting one on “Mrs. G. Goes to College”.

     On “The Hathaways”, Walter thought Elinor had left him when she moved their paint –allergic chimps to a motel.

     A dancer, an Army officer, a clown, a tramp and a bagpipe player all sought escape from their strange personal prisons on “The Twilight Zone”.

    On “Tall Man”, Billy the Kid rescued a ten year old from a bullwhipping by Sledge, the man who bought the boy for ten dollars.

          On a special “Lawrence Welk Show”, the Champagne Music Makers, their wives and children celebrated Christmas.  Aladdin had the lead role of Santa.

     On “My Three Sons”, Robbie got tired of living in Mike’s shadow at school, and tried to join the Chieftains, the only club that didn’t give his brother a bid.

     A revenge seeking artist used his talent to rob a bank on “Outlaws”.

     On “Checkmate”, Laraine Day played the part of a wealthy heiress who woke up in a hospital not knowing who she was despite the statement of a man who claimed to be her husband.

     “Hazel” had her work cut out for her when Mr. Baxter gave her the job of making sure Dorothy didn’t overbuy at an auction sale.

That's

At the last ten days in December 50 years ago.

UN Overwhelms Rebel Bases

     UN forces overwhelmed three Katangan strongholds in Elisabethville, but Katangan forces still held the heart of the city.  President Moish Tshombe left the Capital, but vowed to fight to the end.

     Morale was low among the Katangans.  White officers in Jeeps patrolled the streets trying to rally the soldiers.  They even called on male refugees in the Leopold II Hotel to take up arms and join them. 

     As a result of the fighting, hospitals were jammed with wounded.  There was no water in most of the city, and food was scarce.

     Dispatches from the battered capital indicated the 2,000 man Katangan force would not be able to hold out much longer against the 5,000 strong Irish, Swedish and Indian Gurkha troops.

     Before leaving Elisabethville, Tshombe issued a communiqué charging that the UN offensive had led to a massacre of civilians, and claimed such “butchery” would only strengthen his faith in his forces and push them on to victory.

Downrange Difficulties

     We had a couple of setbacks in the race for space.

     At Cape Canaveral, an Atlas missile took Scatback, a tiny Rhesus monkey on a 600 mile journey into space.  The rocket performed to perfection, unleashing the capsule six minutes after launch. 

     Less than 30 minutes later the six foot cylinder with Scatback inside plummeted into the intended impact zone 6,000 miles downrange.

     Despite the fact that the capsule carried a radio beacon, and a flotation bag, the recovery crew was not able to find it. 

    In Honolulu, Air Force nose cone catchers missed their chance to snag a Discoverer capsule when it fell back to earth. 

     After a four day journey around the earth at 17,000 miles per hour, the 300 pound, gold plated prize package from space began its re-entry over Kodiak, Alaska.  It landed in the ocean near Hawaii, out of range of recovery forces.

So Long “Joe”

     He came from Algiers, Algeria, North Africa.  During his military career he served in Tunisia, then Bizerte, and from there he was moved to the Italian front.  They called him “G.I. JOE”.

     On October 18, 1943, the British 56^th Brigade was scheduled to attack the Italian town of Calvi Vecchia.  The U.S. Air Support Command was to bomb the city in order to soften the entry of the British Brigade.  The German’s retreated.  With little resistance, the British troops entered the city ahead of schedule.

     The bombing of Calvi Vecchia was scheduled to take place within the half hour.  All attempts to cancel the bombings by radio and other means failed.  The British soldiers held their position, and prepared to take whatever came their way.  Their fate was “in the hands” of “G.I. Joe”.

     Joe, a dark checker pied white flight cock, was a member of the United States Army Pigeon Service.

     A note was hastily written and attached to Joe.  He was sent aloft to deliver the message to cancel the bombing.  The little pigeon, not quite seven months old, made the 20 mile journey to the airfield  in 20 minutes, arriving just as the planes were warming up for takeoff.  With minutes to spare the bombing was called off.

     General Mark Clark, Commander of the U. S. Fifth Army estimated “G.I. Joe” saved the lives of at least a thousand of our British allies.

     The following month, “G.I. Joe” was presented the Dickin Medal for gallantry by the Lord Mayor of London.

     After World War II, “G.I. Joe” and 24 other heroic pigeons were housed at the U.S. Army’s Churchill Loft at Fort Monmouth New Jersey.   When the Army deactivated the training of homing pigeons, Joe was “retired” to the Detroit Zoological Park. 

     “G.I. Joe” died in 1961 at the age of 18.  He was stuffed, mounted, and placed on display in the U.S. Army Signal Corps Museum.

Note:

     If you liked this story about “G.I. Joe”, you might enjoy the Disney movie “Valiant”.  Released in 2005, “Valiant” is the story of a group of Royal Homing Pigeon Service pigeons during World War II.  To watch a Trailer of “Valiant” Click Here.

Park Elk Controversy

     The State of Wyoming was expected to ask the federal government to put an immediate stop to the slaughter of elk in Yellowstone Park.

     Acting Wyoming Governor Jack Gage headed a delegation that met with Interior Department and National Park Service representatives to discuss the elk herd problem.  His State had offered to accept up to 4,000 live trapped elk to help resolve the overpopulation problem.    

     The Park Service felt it was necessary to reduce the park’s northern elk herd by 5,000 animals.  The majority of those would be shot by park rangers.  Others were to be trapped and transplanted.

     The herd reduction plan was protested by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and many sportsmen’s groups in both Montana and Wyoming. 

     On the federal level, a bill was to be introduced in Congress in January that would permit a court suit against the federal government to halt the elk slaughter in Yellowstone.

Crow Indians Tackle 9.3 Million Dollar Problem

      What do you do with $9.3 million?  That was the question being pondered by the Crow Indian Tribal Council, which included all tribe members. 

     The large sum of money came from a transaction in which lands were given up by the tribe when new reservation boundaries were set. 

     One resolution under consideration would provide $4 million for economic development, $1 million for a land purchase program, $1 million for land leasing on a loan basis, $2 million for creating employment for Crows on the Reservation, and $1 million in per capita pay to be distributed to the tribe’s 4,300 members.

     Per capita pay was the major issue.  When Council officers went to Washington the month before, they requested a per capita pay of $1,500, with the remainder to go for the tribe’s benefit as a whole.

     When they returned to Montana, Council representatives learned that Interior Secretary Udall had disagreed with their request, and suggested a per capita payment of $250.  Under his plan each tribe member would receive an initial $100 payment in December, followed by three $50 payments in January, February and March.  Those objecting to Udall’s offer believed accepting it would be a concession to the federal government.

     Discussions took place in the Ivan Hoops Memorial Hall in Crow Agency.  Much of the oratory was in the Crow language.

The Long Lines

     In modern times a holiday tradition has emerged that really brings people together.  It’s called Black Friday. 

     Fifty years ago we had After Thanksgiving sales, but they were very mild when compared to the insanity we see today. 

     There was however another event that brought people out in large numbers.  It took place in January.  No door buster specials…no hourly specials…in fact, no bargains were offered at all, yet this event also created long lines of people.   Most were well behaved, but there was an occasional temper flare. 

     The clerks worked as fast as they could, yet it often took several hours to make your way to the counter.  There were no computers to expedite the sales.

     We didn’t leave that “sale” with tons of toys, or big screen TV’s.  We all left with the same thing…our new license plate or tag.

     Back then, all vehicle licenses needed to be renewed in January.  The challenge was to figure out a day and time that would get us in and out of the Treasurer’s Office in a hurry.  Some went when it was close to payday, figuring many were waiting for their checks before they renewed.  Others watched the weather forecast.  There was a good chance the line would be short if you went very early on a morning when the temperature was below zero.  If that was your strategy, you only had to hope the car would start.

     Some things may have been simpler in the “good old days” but license renewal isn’t one of them.

Unusual December Storm

    The first day of winter brought .15 of an inch of precipitation to the Capital City.  That’s pretty much to be expected.  What wasn't expected is what came with that storm.

     Along with the snow, it brought a thunder and lightning storm.

     Lightning knocked out two transformers and interrupted telephone service in part of the Helena Valley. 

     In one valley home, a bolt generated by the freak storm traveled down a vent pipe shattering a light fixture, and scattered concrete from the bathroom floor throughout the home.  Some pieces of concrete were imbedded in the ceiling.  When the lightning jumped to the overflow pipe of the bathtub, it traveled down into the sewer line, turning the pipes black.

     Other homeowners in the valley and some residents of the city reported minor damage from lightning.

     According to the Weather Service, there were only two other known occurrences of December thunder and lightning storms in the area…one in 1897 and the other in 1916.

Musical Judges

     When Police Judge K. V. Ingersoll became ill, Judge A. J. White reported to City Hall to fill in.  Judge White then left to spend Christmas in California.

     Next on the bench to argue traffic tickets and levy fines was Judge Clarence Hanley.       Judge Hanley then left for a visit with relatives in Seattle.

     In Hanley’s absence, the only remaining arbitrator, Judge James Clarke was handed the gavel. 

     This rapid turnover in police judges occurred in a span of a week and a half here in Helena.

Also In The News………

     The Supreme Court refused to order a stay of proceedings against Freedom Riders arrested in Jackson, Mississippi, stating the stay was not requested by those being prosecuted.   The order came one week after the high tribunal had struck down “breach of the peace” convictions of 18 sit-in demonstrators.

     Wilma Rudolph won the Associated Press award as the female athlete of 1961.  It was the second straight year that she was so honored.

     Mike Ditka was named Associated Press Rookie of the Year in the NFL.  The 6 foot 3, 230 pound tight end was the Bears Number one draft choice.

     Bumps Winters bowled a perfect 300 game in non-league play at Skyline Lanes in Kalispell.  Winters was the Montana State All-Events Champion of the 1958-59 Season.

   I Filled The Gas Tank Sweetheart………Dick’s Conoco Service on Euclid was giving away a fresh mistletoe corsage with every gas purchase.

     Those shopping for a sweet gift could buy a one pound box of Russell Stover Candy for $1.50 at Parchen Drug.  Two pound boxes were $2.35 and five pound boxes were selling for $6.95.

And a Merry Christmas to You…..

     In the spirit of the season, Arkansas farm laborer Allen Culp sent a Christmas card to Sheriff Hugh Champion of Chilton County, Alabama.   Sheriff Champion responded by sending the Blytheville, Arkansas police a warrant for Culp’s arrest.  It seems Culp had escaped from Champion’s jail eight months earlier.

Here at the Station………

     Santa visited our studio and appeared on the KBLL The Clown Show. The kids were surprised…and so was Santa.  As one child approached him, with a twinkle in his eye, Santa asked “What’s your name little girl?  As she sat on his lap the girl replied…”You know my name Daddy!”  

     Ella Lindstrom lost her husband as they traveled west on a wagon train.  She then learned she had a terminal illness and was faced with the problem of finding new homes for her seven children.  Bette Davis starred in “The Ella Lindstrom Story” on “Wagon Train”.

     On “Dennis The Menace”, Mr. Wilson conned Dennis into buying a good luck piece, and the boy’s luck improved dramatically.

     Bronco Layne was named overseer of a three way truce between Sheriff Gage of Painted Rock, and two rival bandit gangs on the “Cheyenne Show”.

     On “Hennessy”, Chick and Martha browsed around the Naval Air Base, and their stop in the aircraft ejection seat area had some surprising consequences.

     Cameron Brooks got a rare insight into the meaning of Christmas when he heeded the advice of a very special Santa on “Window on Main Street”.

     When Aunt Bee put up eight quarts of pickles that tasted like kerosene, Andy and Barney conspired to export them as far away from Mayberry as possible on “The Andy Griffith Show”.

     On “Tales of Wells Fargo”, a gunslinger agreed to surrender on the condition that he get his own reward money so he could visit his Mother before going to prison.

     Vivian Vance played a housewife who tried to hide the “window washer” when husband suddenly showed up on “Candid Camera”.

    On “Bonanza”, when a dishonest mine owner and Mayor Goshen wanted a sheriff that wouldn’t give them any trouble, they planned to pin the badge on Little Joe. 

     Ray Bolger, Tommy Sands, Ed Wynn and Annette Funicello were a few of the stars appearing at a back stage party on “Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color”.

    On “The Untouchables”, Eliot Ness tried to put an end to the syndicate’s drive to control New York’s bakeries.

    Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington performed their first television duet on the “Ed Sullivan Show”.

That's

At the second week in December 50 years ago.

U.S. Helicopters Arrive

     As part of the expanded U.S. military aid to South Viet Nam, approximately 400 Army pilots and ground crewmen arrived in Saigon.  They began readying some 40 combat helicopters for use against the Viet Cong rebels.

     Vietnamese ground forces were having difficulty trapping roving Viet Cong units because of a lack of speedy transport over the jungle.  U. S. crews manning the helicopters would be flying Vietnamese troops and equipment to attack positions when Communist rebels were sighted 

     Operations were to begin in about two weeks.  It would be the first time U.S. personnel would fly such missions against the rebel forces.

Red War Plan for Viet Nam Recovered

     The State Department released a White Paper that revealed secret Communist intentions for Viet Nam.

     A diary taken from a Viet Cong commander who was killed in action, contained war plans that called for attacks in the mountainous areas of South Viet Nam.

     A safe base from which they could start operations and harass the enemy was to be established.  During the winter and on into spring they would gather all military powers at the base, then launch simultaneous attacks all over the mountain area.

     Following those operations, the intent was to leave the mountain area to local forces, and move to the midland areas, where they would attack enemy rescue groups, paralyze the transportation system, and reduce their manpower.

     The recovered diary was solid evidence of Communist North Viet Nam’s intention to overthrow the government of South Viet Nam. 

Eichmann Convicted of War Crimes

      Israel convicted Adolph Eichmann of “unsurpassed” crimes against the Jews, stating that his role in the Nazi program would be remembered until the end of time.

     In a 300 page judgment handed down by a special tribunal, Eichmann was sentenced to death.

     The three judges determined that the 55 year old Gestapo Lieutenant Colonel was guilty on four major counts.

1. Crimes against the Jews
2. Crimes against humanity
3. War Crimes
4. Membership in the criminal Nazi SS (Elite Guard) and SD (Security Police) organizations.    

     From his bullet proof glass cage Eichmann fixed a steady stare on the judges as the verdict was read.

     Biting his words off like a drill sergeant, the defendant scorned his conviction as based on deception.  In a 20 minute prepared speech, Eichmann told the tribunal that he was a tool in the vast Nazi machine.  When the Hitler Reich collapsed, he said, other Nazis shifted the blame for the extermination to him.

     “It is my profound conviction that I must suffer for others” Eichmann told the special Israeli tribunal.  “I must carry the burden imposed on me by fate.”

     Eichmann would die on the gallows for his crimes.

U. S. Fires “Peace Bomb”

     A team of scientists detonated the first underground atomic “peace bomb” in New Mexico.

     The blast, a quarter mile beneath the earth’s surface, was a multipurpose experiment to explore peaceful potentials for nuclear explosives, including using the earth as a chemical test tube.    

      The bomb, with an energy yield of 5.000 tons of TNT caused a moderate earthquake in Carlsbad.  Radioactive gasses made their way up a mine shaft, producing an invisible cloud that swept away over unpopulated areas.  The low level radiation caused no harm. A filter in the shaft was said to have stopped any solid particles from escaping.

   Shock from the blast rocked an observation site four and a half miles away, and caused a moderate earthquake in Carlsbad, 34 miles to the west.

     It was called a “peace bomb” because scientists hoped the blast would create a stable underground cavity full of molten salt and steam.  If the steam produced by the nuclear heat could be tapped underground, it might be possible to bring it up to run surface turbines and generators for electricity.

     The “peace bomb” test took place about 180 miles southeast of the Trinity site, where the first mushroom cloud ushered in the atomic age.

Mystery Solved

     It rolled through town on an eastbound train. 

     Resting atop a special; 85 foot flat car, the mysterious object was covered with a specially made “heating pad” made of plywood, canvas and wire.  The car in front was rigged with a fan that sent waves of warm air over the object.

     Those who saw it in the pre-dawn hours wondered what it was, and where it was going.

     Before long we learned the identity of the special “passenger” on that train.

     He was tall and handsome.  His name was Douglas.  A native of Washington State, his journey would end in another Washington…the Nation’s Capital, Washington, D. C.

    Once there, Douglas would be escorted to the Ellipse south of the White House, dressed in finery, and stand tall as a symbol of Peace.  He was our National Christmas Tree. 

     The 75 foot Douglas Fir, was donated by Weyerhaeuser Company’s Clemons Tree Farm in Washington.

     Covering the tree for its journey was not a matter of secrecy.  Having been grown in the milder climes of the Cascade Mountains, railroad officials thought the tree might need extra warmth to survive its trip through colder territory.  Thus the “heating pad” like cover, and the car providing warm air.

     It was later learned that “Douglas” didn’t travel alone.  Tucked inside the “heating pad” was a special tree for a special little girl who lived in the White House. It was a three foot Christmas tree, a surprise for the President’s daughter Caroline.

     President Kennedy was not able to attend the lighting of the National Christmas Tree.  His Father had suffered a stroke, and the First Family had flown to Palm Beach, Florida to be with him

     Vice President Lyndon Johnson presided at the ceremony.  He spoke of the nation’s dedication to seeking world peace, comparing that dedication to Christ’s quest for unity.

     The Vice President lit the 3,000 lights on the tree from an electronic console.  Musical notes changed the color and brightness of the lights as music filled the air.

     In case you are wondering whatever happened to “Douglas”, once his official duties were completed, a part of that beautiful tree was crafted into an alter for a church in Massachusetts, home state of President Kennedy.

Governor Speaks Out On Elk Controversy

     Governor Donald Nutter repeated his opposition to the direct reduction of the Yellowstone Park elk herd by professional hunters.

     In a letter to the president of the Madison Valley Rod and Gun Club the Governor said that in May, he called the National Park Service director to propose public hunting in the park. The letter stated, “I have been informed that this type of hunting may require legislative action.  We are prepared to ask our Montana Congressional delegation to promote controlled public hunting in Yellowstone Park in the next session.

     Nutter pointed out that controlled public hunting in National Parks was not new.  It was being practiced in Wyoming’s Teton National Park. 

A Busy Weekend at Carroll

     The first annual Parents Day was held at Carroll College.  More than 300 Moms and Dads turned out for the event.

     The Parents were honored at a breakfast and at a dinner with their sons and daughters in the Commons dining hall.  At the dinner, Alumni President John McCarvel stressed the importance of the role that parents play, as they secure for their children a sound liberal arts education based on Christian values.

     Parents were also given guided tours of the campus.  They met with faculty members during an informal social hour, attended an intercollegiate debate, and were the honored guests at a Carroll basketball game.  The Saints beat Whitworth College of Spokane 70-64 in the hilltop gym.

     It was a busy campus that weekend culminating with the dedication of two new building, Carroll Commons, and Guadalupe Hall.  The Most Reverend Joseph M. Gilmore, Bishop of Helena and Chancellor of the College officiated at the dedication ceremonies.

Wilt “The Stilt” Scores 78 Points

     Wilt “The Stilt” Chamberlain sat slouched on a tiny stool in the corner of the Philadelphia Warriors dressing room.  He didn’t have to say anything.  Those in the room could feel the sadness in his heart.

     His record setting 78 point performance than night was amazing, but it meant little to the 7 foot- one star.  “As far as I’m concerned,” he said, “it’s just 78 points down the drain.  We lost the game.”

     Lose they did.  Outscored by the Lakers 151-147 in triple overtime. 

     “The Stilt” scored 31 field goals and 16 free throws, and grabbed 43 rebounds.  He played every minute of the hard fought game.

     For the Lakers, Elgin Baylor, the man whose 71 point record Chamberlain had just surpassed, scored 63 points.  Baylor didn’t seem to mind losing the single game scoring record as long as his Lakers won the game.

     In March of the following year, Wilt the Stilt became the only player in the NBA to score 100 points in a single game, when the Warriors beat the New York Knicks 169-147.

     Wilt Chamberlain ranks fourth in all time NBA scoring behind Kareem Abdul Jabbar, Karl Malone and Michael Jordan.

Also in the News………

     One of the nation’s best known artists, Anna Mary Robertson Moses, better known as Grandma Moses, passed away at the age of 101.

     Montana’s DAV Officers sent a resolution to President Kennedy and the Montana Congressional delegation, protesting the Veterans Administration’s announcement that VA offices in Billings, Butte, Great Falls and Missoula would be closed before the end of the year.  If the closings took place, the Helena office would be left to serve the entire state.  The resolution asked that the four offices be kept open until a re-evaluation could be made. 

     In answer to a Montana poll conducted by Western District Congressman Arnold Olson, 75% of Montanans responding favored armed intervention in Cuba, if Russia’s aid to that country became more pronounced, and Premier Castro became more belligerent. 

     The City Commission was considering a protest to a zoning change that would allow the building of a shopping complex that would be known as the Lundy Center.

     Just about the time your parents were telling you it’s not a good idea to play hooky, along comes this story…

     Two New York high school lads skipped classes and bought public tour tickets to see the UN.   One of the boys just happened to be the millionth visitor of the year and as such, he and his friend were given a private tour, and treated to a VIP lunch in the Delegate’s dining room.    News coverage of their good fortune got back to the school before they did.   Their welcome back to class was not as warm. 

    The Washington Redskins signed their first Negro football player, thus avoiding the possibility of being banned from playing in Washington’s new federally owned stadium. The player was Ron Hatcher from Michigan State.

     In Pittsburgh a 53 year old woman appeared in court on charges of operating a speakeasy.  When asked why she was selling beer and liquor illegally, she told the Judge, “The church needed an organ, and I wanted to make some money to buy one.”

Here at the Station………

     Uncle Tonoose caused his usual amount of trouble when he paid the family another surprise visit on “The Danny Thomas Show”.

     When a girl in a grease monkey outfit turned out to be the granddaughter of a tycoon, author Cameron Garret Brooks was determined to unravel her double life on “Window on Main Street”.

     On “The Rifleman”, a gunfighter whom the citizens of North Fork ran out of town, returned to seek vengeance.

     When an exclusive men’s club invited Sheriff Taylor and Deputy Fife to an informal dinner meeting, Barney tried to teach Andy the art of being a sophisticated on “The Andy Griffith Show”.

     On “The Cheyenne Show”, Cheyenne set out to buy a Brahma bull as a gift for a seriously ill youngster.

    No one believed Nolan’s story about a band of Indians dressed up in strange costumes until there was an attack on “Rawhide”.

     On “Car 54 Where Are You”, Toody was elected treasurer of the Precinct Brotherhood and decided enter the world of finance to find a way to make the club’s money grow.

     Benny “Kid” Paret fought Gene Fullmer for the NBA middleweight crown on “Fight of the Week”.  Fullmer retained his crown with a tenth round KO.  The bout was broadcast live from Las Vegas.

     A New York writer showed up in Lincoln to write a firsthand story about Billy the Kid on “Tall Man”.

     On “The Bing Crosby Show” Bing went on a jolly jaunt through London in search of his family tree.

That's

At the second week in December 50 years ago.



Reds Halt U.S. Traffic

    In a tightened inspection of American convoys, the Soviet Union halted nine U. S. Army vehicles on the autobahn outside of Berlin.

     Explaining the incident, a U.S. Army spokesman said the Soviets halted nine vehicles that formed the last section of a 150 man convoy en route from Berlin to West Germany.  The stop was due to an error in travel documents.  Following a delay of more than an hour, the discrepancy was resolved and the convoy movement was then completed without further incident.

     Thy movement to and from the West Berlin was an apparent test of rights of access to the disputed city. 

     The Soviets considered the movements a provocation that could lead to dangerous consequences.

Seating Red China

     The Soviet Union called upon the United Nations to seat Red China, They wanted the immediate replacement of what they called “the miserable clique” of Chinese Nationalists that were representing China.

     Valerian Zorin, the Soviet Delegate, blamed the United States for the long impasse over Chinese representation.  He warned that the Peiping regime had the right to crush Chiang Kai-shek by force if necessary.  He told the Assembly that without U.S. forces in Taiwan, Chiang Kai-shek would be wiped out by a hurricane of the people’s wrath.

     In response, Nationalist China’s Ambassador said that if the United States ever yielded to the demands of the Soviet Union, the United Nations would be defeating its own principals and ideals.

Katanga Troops Fire on U. S. Plane

    Katanga soldiers with rifles and submachine guns fired upon a as it swept over the city on its landing approach to the Elisabethville airport.  Flames were belching from the fuel tank and one engine, but the big cargo plane managed to land safely.

     The aircraft was one of six heavy transports carrying reinforcements and supplies to UN troops in the Katanga Capital

    The Globemaster was hit less than 24 hours after the United States announced it would provide up to 21 more planes to assist United Nations forces in their battle with the Katanganese.

     Sources indicated that the plane was attacked from a position identified as the official residence of Katanga President Moise Tshombe.

     The attack resulted in the suspension of airlift operations while commanders assessed the security arrangements for American planes

     Once control of air space was assured, Indian and Swedish jets, flying in support of UN ground troops, blew up an ammunition dump six miles outside the city.

Castro Proclaims Marxism

     Declaring he is a Marxist-Leninist, Cuban Premier Fidel Castro, for the first time, admitted publicly that he was leading Cuba down the road to Communism.

     Castro’s declaration that he was a confirmed Marxist was one of his strongest admissions that he had been converted toward the Communist line. Never before had he so frankly placed his island nation in the Communist camp, nor given his own political views on Marxism so strongly.

     Castro chose the fifth anniversary of his landing in Cuba to announce his latest plans for the first Marxist-Leninist state in the Western Hemisphere.  Few of the 80 men who came ashore with him to fight the Batista dictatorship still survived, but among those who did was his brother Raul. 

     Castro’s pronouncement was in sharp contrast to remarks he made six months after seizing power from Fulgencio Batista in January of 1959.  At that time Castro said, “Ours is not a Communist revolution”.

     In his five hour speech the Cuban leader once again accused the United States of training guerilla forces to stave off the threats of what he called Cuban style revolutions in other Latin American countries.

Pearl Harbor Remembered

    In Hawaii, a Memorial service was held on a platform above the waters of Battleship Row to mark the 20^th anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

     The ceremony was signaled by the sound of carillon chimes from Ford Island, followed by a Navy Buglers call to colors.  The 7:55a.m. event was timed to coincide with the exact moment -when the first Japanese planes swooped down upon the battleships lining the northeast shore.

     Among those taking part in the tribute were 108 Pearl Harbor raid survivors, 60 Gold Star Mothers, many of whom has lost their sons in the attack, military leaders, and many veterans organization representatives.

     Beneath the platform were the rusting bulk of the warship U.S.S. Arizona, and the remains of the 1,102 crewmen who went down with her. A total of 93 ships were docked at Pearl Harbor that day.  Of them, 47 were destroyed, the rest were damaged.   The Arizona and her crew became symbols of the infamous attack.

     At the service, Admiral John H. Sides said, “The lessons learned that day are recorded in blood.  The important thing for us here today, and for all Americans, is to pledge anew that our country shall always remain strong and shall always be ready to defend the freedoms for which these men fought and died.”

     The words of Admiral Sides still ring true today.  On December 7^th, 2011 we mark the 70^th Anniversary the “date which will live in infamy”.

Thurmond Says UN Will Get U.S. Nuclear Weapons

     Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina said that he learned that the Defense Department had prepared a paper for the turning over of U.S. nuclear weapons to the United Nations.

The Senator did not identify his source, but said such a step would be a terrible blunder, and under no circumstances should the people of this country ever submit to it.

     Thurmond’s remarks were made in a speech to the Arkansas department of the American Legion.  He refused to elaborate on the charge.

    A State Department spokesman denied Thurmond’s claim, stating, “The United States has presented to the United Nations a program of general and complete disarmament in a peaceful world which is designed to control, and eventually eliminate armaments”.  That program, he said, “is a matter of public record.”

More on Strom Thurmond…

      His attempt to kill the Civil Rights Act of 1957 resulted in the longest filibuster in Senate history.  It lasted 24 hours, 18 minutes.  During the lengthy dialogue his comments became increasingly irrelevant.  Before he was through, he had shared a great deal of information with his colleagues, including his Grandmother’s biscuit recipe.      

     Elected as a Democrat in 1954, the oft controversial Senator switched parties in 1964. 

     Strom Thurmond was the oldest person ever to serve in the United States Senate, turning 100 while still in office in 2002.  He retired from the Senate at the end of that session, and passed away the following year.

Mystery Train

     People near the railroad tracks witnessed a rather unusual sight.

     A train passing though Helena in the pre-dawn darkness had an unusual bit of cargo.  There was something very large loaded on an 85 foot flat car.  The mysterious object was enclosed in a special electrically wired plywood and canvas cover made to form a heating pad.  Coupled in front of the extra long car was a mechanical heater that was sending a balmy breeze over the object to keep it warm.

     It joined the fast eastbound freight in Aberdeen, Washington.  An attempt to destroy the object had been thwarted by Police in Hoquiam, Washington.  Extra guards were assigned to it to assure the objects safe passage out of town.

     What it was, and where it was going was perhaps known only by the Northern Pacific crew. 

     To find out what it was, be sure to read “A Look Back” NEXT WEEK.

Elk Kill Foe Washington Bound

     Yellowstone Park officials announced a program designed to cut the Park’s elk herd in half.

They stated the range was not sufficient to handle the existing herd.  Elk would be trapped and shipped out of the park.  Northern boundary hunters would harvest some of the animals, but the majority would probably be shot down by trained teams of rangers.

     Sportsmen, ranchers and others joined in opposition to the plan.  Many felt the solution was not to slaughter the elk, but rather to transplant them to other areas of the state, and to make them available to other states that were willing to transport them.

     Among those protesting the slaughter was a Butte outfitter who favored transplanting the park elk.  To bring National attention to the issue, he carried a large set of elk horns as he hitchhiked across the country, hoping for an opportunity to present them to President Kennedy.

     He also had a petition protesting the elk reduction plan, and a letter from the Skyline Sportsmen’s Association for the President, Interior Secretary Stewart Udall, and Park Service Director Conrad Wirth.

     The 23 year old Butte outfitter was Robert C. Knievel…later to be known as “Evel” Knievel.

Also In The News……..

     Downtown shoppers were treated to the joyous sounds of the season. as Carolers from the Home of Good Shepherd, Helena Junior High, Cathedral High and Helena Senior High performed at Sixth and Last Chance Gulch.

     Helena Football fans were looking forward to the Orange Bowl game between Colorado and LSU on New Year’s Day.  They’d be watching former Helena High football star Bob McCullough playing for the Colorado Buffaloes.

     Rock Hand was Helena’s original “wrap artist”.  In his weekly ad Rock said, “We never gift wrapped a plow…but we will.”

     Twelve year old Terrence Durkin of Anaconda received one of Scouting’s highest honors.  Credited for saving the life of a companion during an outing at Georgetown Lake, the youth was given the Medal of Merit from the National Council of Boy Scouts of America.

     In Memphis, Tennessee, when a father complained that his son objected to his plans to remarry, a judge advised the man to put his son over his knee and paddle him if he doesn’t behave.   The Father in this case was 81, his son was 50, and the intended bride was 56.

     While Robert “Evel” Kneivel was hitchhiking to Washington with a pair of elk horns, a 20 year old Detroit hunter was hitchhiking back home with a deer he shot in Michigan. He stayed behind when the rest of his hunting party left, and had no transportation other than his thumb.  His hitchhiking journey covered 350 miles.

Here at the Station………

     When Officer Dibble tried to impress his captain, he was outwitted by “Top Cat”.  The clever feline wound up being named an honorary sergeant.

     Beaver persuaded his parents to let him go out and buy a pair of ice skates all by himself on “Leave It to Beaver”.

     On “Lawrence Welk”, the Champagne Music Makers paid tribute to Hawaii, our newest state, with a special program featuring songs of the islands.

     New York’s Doug Jones battled Eddie Machen of Redding, California on “Fight of the Week”.

     On “Route 66”, talent scout Max Coyne had the town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania in a flurry over a beauty contest.

     Spencer was hired to guard jazz man Gandy Waters, and took a job as a guitarist in his band on “77 Sunset Strip”.

     On “Gunsmoke”, Marshal Matt Dillon and Chester traveled with a cavalry troop to negotiate freedom for a white woman held captive by Indians.

     Bret got taken by a glamorous card shark on “Maverick”.

     Perry was asked for help when a scandal from the past threatened a million dollar endowment for Euclid College in “The Case of the Brazen Bequest” on “Perry Mason”.

     We watched a story about a group of smoke- jumpers and their ten day battle against a lightning caused forest fire on “Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color”.

     On “Dennis the Menace” a mistake by a grading machine led Henry and Alice Mitchell to believe their son Dennis was a genius.

     Opera singer Joan Sutherland made her first television appearance on the “Ed Sullivan Show”.

     On “Cheyenne”, Cheyenne learned his father was still alive, and set out to find him.

     After watching Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew”, Gunther Toody found a new way to become master of his household on “Car 54 Where Are You”.

     Little Joe won the pretty slave girl of a Chinese General in a poker game on “Bonanza”    

     On “Candid Camera”, Dorothy Collins had fun at the Air Force Academy by presenting cadets a trophy they couldn’t lift.

     Greg Mackenzie had to decide which of two girls was the missing daughter of a millionaire on “Hawaiian Eye”.

     On “The Andy Griffith Show”, Aunt Bee took a shine to a transient jack-of-all-trades.

That's

At the first week in December 50 years ago.

For a fascinating look at Helena's past visit Kennon Baird's Website

Helena As She Was