Jim Kershner’s this day in history

From our archives, 100 years ago

The recently fired county physician for Spokane County appeared before the county commissioners and said he intended to “fight you to the finish.”

One commissioner immediately whipped off his hat, rolled up his sleeves and told the doctor he could have his fight right now if he wanted it.

The doctor, taken aback, said he meant he intended to fight “politically.”

The commissioner replied, “Go to it, doctor.”

Fisticuffs were averted when the doctor turned around and walked out.

From the court beat: “Wicked Nell” Barton was acquitted of stealing $250 from a man in what was apparently a dispute over payment for services rendered.

Wicked Nell was so overjoyed, she insisted on shaking the hands of each juror, although “some evinced little pleasure in the thanks given them.” 

Also on this date

(From the Associated Press)

1868: The U.S. Senate failed by one vote to convict President Andrew Johnson as it took its first ballot on the 11 articles of impeachment against him. … 1920: Joan of Arc was canonized by Pope Benedict XV. … 1939: The government began its first food stamp program in Rochester, N.Y. … 1975: Japanese climber Junko Tabei became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest.