Once upon a time in Ada

Things you didn’t know about your own hometown

By Lee Crouse

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June 1905:

A new ladies military company of 40 girls was organized with Zella Zanhiser as captain. Each of the men’s military companies was given a reception.

On June 12th the Pennsylvania “Empire State Express”recently ran 132 miles from Crestline to Fort Wayne, Ind. In 114 minutes. The fastest time was made near Ada, Ohio, when three miles were run in 85 seconds, or at a rate of 28 seconds for each mile breaking all former world’s records. His is at a rate of 127 miles per hour through Ada.

Ada had its first central fire alarm system, made by The American Magnetic Fire Alarm Company manufactured here in Ada.

C.E. Rhonemus has had erected in front of his store an electric sign with immense letters that are spelled out one at a time, then go out and then repeat. It is an up-to-date city sign that everyone needs to see. This was the first electric sign in this part of Ohio.