Historical clue formulations

• "I wasn't expecting it, but ..." — 2016-09-24
• By hook or by crook — 2016-06-10
• One way or another — 2015-05-19
• In a way — 2005-01-16
• By fair means or foul — 2003-09-06
• Come hell or high water — 2000-05-05
• By hook or by crook — 1996-12-22
• In a way — 1996-12-06