Thirty years ago — 1992

A group of historians, preservationists and cemetery officials has asked the Chautauqua County Legislature to pass legislation which would protect historic gravestones from removal or damage by vandals and overzealous individuals and organizations. The request is the result of the allegedly unauthorized removal of five historic gravestones from the East Ripley Cemetery some 18 months ago, touching off a dispute that has divided the county Historical Society and generated anger and charges on both sides.

Forty years ago — 1982

The Rev. James E. Wall has arrived in Fredonia to accept his first pastorate at St. Joseph’s Church on East Main Street. Father Wall began his assignment on March 13. He succeeds the Rev. Harold Huber. Prior to his appointment at St. Joseph’s, Father Wall was an associate pastor at St. Rose of Lima Church in Buffalo.