Jim Kershner’s This day in history

From our archives, 75 years ago

The headline would raise eyebrows today – “Odd Fellows Have Gay Day” – but in 1935, readers would have no trouble figuring out that it was a story about the Odd Fellows-Rebekahs lodges holding their annual picnic.

The picnic included one party game, called “cracker busting,” which sounds like it deserves a revival. Contestants were blindfolded, given a “club” made of rolled-up newspaper, and placed in a roped-off circle. Then a saltine cracker was tied to the top of every contestant’s head.

Then they would proceed to flail away with their newspapers, trying to bust someone’s cracker. The winner – the last one with an intact saltine – was awarded a prize of a flyswatter.

From the aeronautical beat: The largest airplane ever to visit Spokane was due to arrive at Felts Field for three days: A tri-motor Boeing plane with an astonishing 20 seats (including the pilot’s).

It was here as part of a tour to promote modern aviation travel.

From the medical beat: A 37-year-old Spokane man came to the emergency room with a laceration of his thumb. Upon inquiry, he admitted that his wife had bitten him.

Also on this date

(From the Associated Press)

1962: Actress Marilyn Monroe, 36, was found dead in her Los Angeles home.