Tucumcari’s school board held a special session 50 years ago today and unanimously approved a plan to build a new high school.

The board agreed to acquire 32 acres and a concrete building — formerly used by a drive-in theater — on the “Yessler property,” where the school would be constructed, according to the Tucumcari Daily News.

Voters approved the plan, 829-427, a few weeks later and construction soon began on the school that remains today at 1100 S. Seventh St.

Also 50 years ago today:

• Coronado Elementary School students recorded 100 percent attendance for the day, earning a school-wide party.

• Logan law officers were concerned about a rash of dog poisonings — at least eight in six months.

• Hennig Radio and TV was preparing for a grand opening at 114 E. Main.

• D&S Drug at 202 E. Main advertised chocolate sundaes for 9 cents.

• Today’s TV log included “To Tell the Truth,” “Roy Rogers” and the “Real McCoys.”

• Cooper’s Market, Safeway and Evans Foodway all had large advertisements in the Tucumcari Daily News.

• Tucumcari city commissioners approved the first steps toward the paving of 172 blocks of city streets. Estimated cost was $651,000.

• LeDeane Studio, Grayson Chevron, Dr Pepper Bottling Co. and Budweiser all fielded bowling teams in Tucumcari.

• Area teachers were preparing to attend the annual Eastern New Mexico Education Association’s meeting in Portales. Gov. John Burroughs was slated to be the principal speaker.

• A newspaper classified ad offered reconditioned typewriters for $39.95 at Tucumcari Office Supply.

• Danny Gallegos of Logan and Doris Ennis of Forrest were among big winners in the Quay County 4-H public speaking and talent contest.

• “Bringin’ Up Father,” “Snuffy Smith” and “Nancy” were among daily comics published in the Tucumcari Daily News.

David Stevens writes about yesterday for Freedom New Mexico. Contact him at: dstevens@qcsunonline.com