Thirty years ago — 1991

Over a two-year period, Silver Creek resident Richard Speas handcrafted his own 26-foot steamboat that he christened “The Eagle.” The replica of a 1905 steamer launch, the boats were used in the New England areas and among the Thousand Islands to ferry passengers, Speas explained. He keeps a workshop in Forestville, where he creates wood art pieces for shows and sale.

Forty years ago — 1981

Woody Woodpecker, the Walt Disney character, is celebrating his 40th birthday this year. In honor of the occasion, a greeting card manufacturer is offering a special line of party goods. It was in 1941 that cartoonist Walter Lantz created the pesky woodpecker with the wacky laugh after he was annoyed by a woodpecker tapping on his honeymoon cottage.

Fifty years ago — 1971

During a special meeting, the Dunkirk Common Council voted 4-1 in favor of the creation of a new city position of personnel director. The newly-created position is awaiting the approval of the Civil Service Commission of Buffalo.