50 years ago in Expo history: Folklife cab stolen using lubricant and a flatbed truck; Van Cliburn honored Soviet violinist

Thieves made off with an unlikely Expo ’74 souvenir: a complete log cabin.

A 10-by-10-foot log cabin, previously on display in the Folklife Festival area, was stolen from the Expo warehouse.

How do you steal a log cabin?

Apparently the thieves poured heavy oil on the floor, allowing them to slide the cab onto what is believed to be a flatbed truck.

It was found three days later next to an old cabin east of Chattaroy, which someone may have been using as a replacement cabin.

In other Expo news, superstar pianist Van Cliburn gave a “flawless” concert at the Opera House. The spokesperson for the Spokesman-Review noted that he “received five standing ovations and played five encores.”

The Chronicle critic said the general public “simply did not want him to leave the theater.”

Before the concert, Van Cliburn honored Russian violinist David Oistrakh, who died the day before in the Netherlands, by presenting a wreath to officials in the Soviet pavilion.

From 100 years ago: The Gonzaga University football team – yes, they had one in 1924 – defeated the Multnomah club, an amateur team from Portland, 14-0.

The most important Gonzaga player was Houston Stockton, who “stood above every other star in the great game.”

Stockton completed seven passes, including a touchdown pass; six points; ran 67 yards; and one point after converted.

Oh, and he also played “his usual invincible defense game.”

Stockton, the grandfather of NBA Hall of Famer John Stockton, went on to play for the 1926 NFL championship team, the Frankford Yellow Jackets.