From the Files of the Kosciusko County Historical Society
Editor’s note: This is a retrospective article that runs a few times a month on InkFreeNews
June 17, 1974 — The International Palace of Sports, North Webster, a non-profit public foundation dedicated to inspire youth to higher achievement and better citizenship through sports, has enshrined sports figures in a wax museum that is now open to the public from 2 to 10 p.m. each Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The foundation is housed within an impressive castle-like structure carrying out the tiny community’s multimillion dollar rebuilding program on the legendary theme of Camelot.
Sixteen sports figures of the 20th century will be permanently recognized as all are inducted into the foundation’s museum as a part of the grand opening and dedication ceremonies set for June 29.
Attending will be Johnny Weissmuller, swimming; Pancho Gonzalez, tennis; Jesse Owens, track and field; and Dick Weber, bowling.
June 20, 1974 — O.J. Simpson, record-shattering running back for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League, confirmed Wednesday he will attend ceremonies next weekend at the International Palace of Sports in North Webster.
Simpson will be inducted June 29 as the 1974 King of Sports during the dedication ceremonies at the Palace of Sports, according to Director Homer Shoop.
Simpson will be the second “King of Sports” to be enshrined in the ornate Palace. Mark Spitz, elected King of 1972 for his outstanding performance in the Olympics, was present at ceremonies one year ago.
June 20, 1958 — City postal carriers in Warsaw will blossom out tomorrow with the “new look” in delivering mail.
Postmaster Frank O. Rarick announced today that all city carriers will be equipped with caddy carts to take the load off their shoulders and aid in handling the increased volume of mail.
Compiled by InkFreeNews reporter Lasca Randels
