In Review
First Week of January 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Married:  At the residence of the bride’s parents, January 1st, 1868, by Rev. Jas. Watts,
Mr. J. T. Norton and Miss Delphine McMillan, all of Evansville, Wisconsin.  Married:  In St. Louis, Mo., at the
residence of  E. C. Little, Esq., on Thursday evening, Dec. 26th, 1867, by the Rev. A. H. Burlingham, D. D., Pastor
of the Second Baptist Church, Mr. David C. Stevens of Evansville and Miss Mary A. Little, of Rutland, Wis.  
Married:  In Albany, at the house of the bride’s father, Jan. 1st, 1868, by Rev. E. Robinson, Mr. Hosea Bridgman, of
Evansville and Miss Hannah A. VanDusen, of Albany.  Married:  At the Union Hotel in Union, Wis., Dec., 25th, 1867,
by Rev. A. C. Keene, Wm. H. Dreher and Susan Babbitt.  Married:  January 1st, 1868, at the residence of the bride’
s mother, by Rev. Mr. Barry, Mr. J. A. Warner and Miss Alice Thompson, both of Center, Rock Co., Wis.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The Evansville Dramatic Association will present the beautiful drama “Among the
Breakers,” to be followed by a farce entitled “Slasher and Crasher,” at Morehouse’s Hall, Thursday night.  With the
popularity that this association has carried, right among our own people, entitles them to a full house.  They have
been idle for some months and now present this play as the first of the season, with the hope it will meet with the
hearty response from our people that it deserves.  Tickets for sale at N. Winston & Sons.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Married:  Chester Miller, of Cooksville and Miss Inis E. Maxon, of Evansville, Christmas
Eve, December 24, 1887.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Mr. Geo. L. Pullen gave an afternoon party to about forty of his friends at the Opera
House New Years from four until eight, evening.  Dancing was the amusement provided.  Prof. Huyke furnished
music.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The rubber coats for the Evansville Hose Company No. 1, which were recently ordered
through the firm of Ray Gillman & Sons, have arrived.  The coats were purchased by the City Council for the
firemen, and as the boys are very much in need of them, the gift is greatly appreciated.  
90 Years Ago (1918):  The officers of the Evansville Home Guards have received notice from the government that
owing to the scarcity of rifles and uniforms that it will be impossible to federalize the company at the present time
and that many of the companies who have already been promised supplies and federalization will have to be
withdrawn.  Instead of our sixty companies that it was intended to have in this state, the number will be reduced to
forty.  The Evansville company, however, by a decisive vote has decided to maintain its organization and to keep
up its drills as the time may come when they will be needed, and they want to be ready.
80 Years Ago (1928):  It is announced by the secretary of the Evansville Rock County Fair Association that the
annual stockholder’s meeting will be held at the city hall on the afternoon of January 10, for the purpose of hearing
reports and considering the offer from the Janesville Driving Park Association of $4,200 for the Evansville charter
which will give that Association the right to call itself a county fair and will virtually put the Evansville Rock County
Fair out of business.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Mr. and Mrs. Dan Francis Finnane announce the arrival of a baby son born early Christmas
morning.

60 Years Ago (1948):  According to D. G. Whitmore, secretary of the company, arrangements have been
completed here for the 73rd annual meeting of the Mutual Fire Insurance Company.  The company which has its
headquarters at 137 East Main Street, is one of the oldest in the state having been in constant operation since
1874.  Directors will be elected for terms of three years to succeed Fred Miller, Wade Woodworth and D. G.
Whitmore.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Baker Manufacturing Co., Evansville’s largest industry, expanded its line of products
recently when it introduced a new pitless pump installation system.  The company, which gained fame in pioneer
days as manufacturer of windmills, now makes automatic water systems along with such things as television towers,
pump jacks, hydrofoils and grey iron castings, and is also distributor for pipe, fittings, motors, hydrants, brass
goods, plumbing fixtures, steel cabinets and other supplies.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Evansville skaters have been hoping that the ice on Lake Leota would be safe and in good
condition for the winter sport.  City officials state that they too have been hopeful that the city youngsters would
enjoy the sport but up until Christmas Day the weather did not cooperate.  However, they have made
arrangements for the warming house to be open whenever the ice is safe.  Therefore, skaters are requested to
cooperate and stay off the ice when the warming house is not open.  The ice is being tested daily throughout the
winter for safety.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  Evansville Police Chief Richard Luers was elected President of the Rock County Law
Enforcement Association last week to succeed Rock County Sheriff Fred Falk for a one-year term.  Members of the
group are police chiefs from Beloit, Beloit township, Clinton, Edgerton, Janesville, Milton, Milton township,
Orfordville, Turtle township, in addition to the Rock County Sheriff, Coroner, District Attorney, Juvenile Probation
Officer, State Patrol and other county representatives.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  According to LaVerne Krueger, president of the Meals on Wheels, “We are the only city that
has never missed a day in 15 years.”  Madison did not deliver and several other towns were not able to as a result
of the Tuesday blizzard, December 15th.  Tom Williams and Blaine Ellison, in one four-wheeled vehicle and Howard
Krueger and Ken Reese in another, made fourteen people very happy.  Tom Williams said the people were also
very surprised.  They didn’t think the meals would get to them.  The men, all veterinarians, with Evansville Vet
Service, had to stop in the middle of the road when making the deliveries because they didn’t dare get too near the
curb.  All the meals arrived just a little later than usual.   

10 years ago (1997):  According to city administrator Mike Davis, four have applied for the position of police chief
for the city of Evansville.  Two are local and two are from other areas.  The names will not be divulged until the
screenings have taken place and finalists listed.  Acting Police Chief was Scott McElroy.

In Review
Second Week of January 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  New Wagon Shop:  Mr. Wm. Bedford & Co., have rented the shop and premises of Mr.
Hiram Spencer, and is now receiving stock for an extensive wagon and carriage manufactory.  Mr. Bedford is from
Oregon, Dane county, where for several years he has been extensively engaged in the business, and his work has
always commanded a ready and extensive sale.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The extensive foundry and machine shop of Messrs. A. S. Baker & Co., received a narrow
escape from a severe fire on Saturday evening last.  A spark from the fire in the furnace room flew into a barrel of
fine charcoal which ignited, but was discovered by one of the workmen in the wood shop of Lehman Bros. who
succeeded in extinguishing the flames.

120 Years Ago (1888):  The accidents from the icy walks Thursday were as numerous as they were painful.  There
were many minor mishaps which figure nothing on the records.  Mrs. Apfel slipped and sprained her arm quite
badly.  Miss Betsy Mann went to the well to get water for tea, and slipping on the ice, fell, splashing the water all
over herself, and receiving such injuries that she had to be helped into the house, after laying sometime in a
painful and helpless condition.  She was quite badly hurt.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Mr. George Christman, aged 63 years died at his home in this city of heart failure, about
12 o’clock Monday night.  Comrade Christman attended the funeral of Comrade H. W. Smith, Monday, and
marched in the ranks of the G. A.R. to the cemetery and back, supposed to be in his usual health and only
commenced feeling a little weak about 6 o’clock in the evening, but rapidly grew worse until he passed away.  His
funeral was held at the M. E. Church, Thursday at 10 o’clock a.m., and his remains taken to the Magnolia cemetery
near his former home.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Miss Emma Kuelz expects to leave for Beloit soon, where she will take a course in the
business college.
90 Years Ago (1918):  Dr. John M. Evans was a life long resident of this city and a son of Dr. John M. Evans, the
pioneer physician for whom Evansville was named, and Emma Clement Evans, of La Porte, Ind., died at St. Mary’s
Hospital in Madison, Monday afternoon, Jan. 7.  Dr. Evans was ill at his home for many months before he was
taken to the hospital last November.  Dr. Evans was born in Evansville fifty-nine years ago.  He was educated in
the Evansville schools and Rush Medical College.  In 1885, he married Miss May Johnson, daughter, of Mr. and
Mrs. Reuben Johnson, of this city.  After their marriage they spent a year in Vienna and London where Dr. Evans
pursued his medical courses.  Following the precedent of his father, he decided to make Evansville his field of
service.  After his father’s death he maintained the interest in the Pioneer Drug Store which was established before
the Civil War.  Dr. Evans is survived by Mrs. Evans, three children and a sister, Mrs. Edward Cary of Portland,
Oregon.  His daughter Adelaide, and son John Clement, are graduates of the university and Richard is beginning
his work there in the pre-medical course.    
80 Years Ago (1928):  Frank Hall, of Hall Bros. Shows, Whitewater, was in this locality last week and while here
purchased of Dan Finnane a standard bred gelding which he will add to his equipment, as the animal is said to be
of extraordinary intelligence.

70 Years Ago (1938):  For sale:  Tourist cabin at Lake Leota in excellent condition.  Accommodations for five.  
Inquire of Mrs. Ralph E. Smith, 15 ½ West Main Street, above Bliven’s Royal Blue Food Store.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Evansville’s first annual ice carnival was held Sunday afternoon on Lake Leota with 150 in
attendance.  The event was sponsored by the Congregational Church with H. L. Tait serving as general chairman.  
He was assisted by the Rev. Francis Kranz, pastor of the church and other men in the community.  First place
winners were Wayne Disch in the boys intermediate 16-17 years; Gordon Brunsell, boy’s juvenile 12 and 13 years;
James Knapp, boy’s midgets, under 12; Jean Butler, girls junior 14- 15 years; Darla Albright, girl’s juvenile, under
14 and Carlyn Krueger 7 and Edwin Krueger, 5, both were awarded ribbons for their sportsmanship in competing
against older skaters.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Many Evansville business places were closed Monday afternoon, as the community turned
out to pay its last respects to former mayor, William E. Brown.  Services for the well known druggist were held in the
Congregational Church and burial was made in Whitewater.  Brown died suddenly at his new home here last Friday
morning.  He was 55.  His interest in antiques led to his developing one of the finest private collections of old drug
store supplies and equipment.  The antique drug store he set up in the basement of his former home on Church
street was listed as among the outstanding such collections in America by the Smithsonian Institution, and had
been pictured and described in many professional and general interest publications.  He is survived by his wife,
Isabelle, a daughter Susan; two brothers, Donald and Arleigh, Whitewater, and a sister, Mrs. Bruno Wardin, Beloit.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Mr. and Mrs. Henry J. Holz, Evansville, announce the engagement of their daughter, Sandra
Louise, to David Zweifel, Route 1, McFarland, son of Mr. and Mrs. Cloyence J. Zweifel, Evansville.  Miss Holz, a
graduate of Madison Business College, is a secretary for the Madison Diocesan Department of Education.  Mr.
Zweifel, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin School of Journalism, is a member of the Capital Times news
staff.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Evansville Board of Health will hold a public discussion on January 31 at 7 p.m.
regarding the noise and dust problem from corn drying.  Last fall, citizens living in the area adjacent to the Union
Co-op’s corn drying operation objected to the noise and dust.  No action was taken at that time.  The city will invite
a DNR representative to attend, as well as Union Co-op and interested citizens.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Each year the Evansville Jaycees recognize members of the Evansville community for
outstanding involvement and accomplishments in their profession and their community.  On January 30, 1988 a
banquet will be held in their honor at the Evansville Country Club.  Doug Spooner will be honored as the
outstanding young adult; Ed and Denise Arnold, the outstanding young farm couple; Chris Eager, outstanding
young individual; and Ann Krause, outstanding young educator.  Marjorie Hipke, will receive the Distinguished
Community Service Award for her dedication in serving others.

10 years ago (1997):  With the Jan 6, 5 p.m. deadline passed, the following candidates have filed papers with City
Clerk Robert Poffenberger.  Running for Mayor are incumbent Steven DiSalvo and council member Thayne
Anderson.  For First Ward Alderman, incumbent Harlin Miller is being opposed by Paul Baker.  Second Ward has
two newcomers vying, Chuck DiPiazza and Janis Ringhand.  Third Ward alderman Ron Schmit is being opposed by
Diane Roberts and Fourth Ward Alderman has two running former councilman Dale Bryant and Kent
Katzenmeyer.  Thomas Alisankus is the only candidate for Municipal Judge.

In Review
Third Week of January 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  To Farmers.  The subscriber wishes to inform the farmers of Union and the adjoining
Towns, that he has the agency of the following different kinds of Farm machinery and agricultural implements;  
Mitchel’s Celebrated Racine Farm Wagons, Buckeye Grain Drill, The marsh harvester, The Excelsior Reaper &
Mower, the celebrated Joseph Hall Threshing Machine, Collins & Shattock’s Blower Thresher, Sulky Corn Plow,
and in fact, all kinds of heavy farm machines:  which I will sell as cheap and as good time as can be said in Rock
County.  Any one contemplate buying any kind of Farm Machinery, will do well to call or write to me for circulars,
terms etc.  Any person wanting information in regard to any kind of Farming Machinery, need only to write to me
and I will give full descriptions by return mail.  Earl Billings, Evansville, Wis.  Office with Randolph at Fifield’s
Lumber yard.

130 Years Ago (1878):  At the meeting of the first Constitutional Convention which met at the Capitol, at Madison,
the 5th of October, 1846, two gentlemen from this county who were elected as delegates are still residents of our
town, Hon. David L. Mills, and Sanford P. Hammonds.  Hon. Daniel Johnson and family, and Hon. David L. Mills,
went to Madison Monday to attend the opening of the new Legislature and the Inauguration.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Rev. Arthur J. Hovey, of Stoneham, Mass. will occupy the Baptist pulpit next Sabbath
morning and evening.  We understand the Baptist people have engaged Mr. Hovey for their settled pastor, for a
term, at least.  Mr. Hovey was in town a few days since on his way to Minneapolis, but we had not the pleasure of
his acquaintance.  He is a man of middle age and bears the impress of a Christian gentleman, that he is, and is
well learned in his noble profession.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Twenty-one cars of stock were shipped from this station to Chicago the first three days of
this week, as follows:  Monday evening, Will Campbell and O. F. Collins shipped 3 cars of hogs and cattle; David
Stevens, 2 cars of hogs and cattle; Tuesday evening the Miller Bros., shipped 4 cars of cattle, and Wednesday
evening, C. A. Hollister shipped 2 cars of sheep; W. H. H. Johnson, 2 cars of sheep; John Wall, 2 cars of sheep;
Arthur Franklin, 2 cars of cattle; Chris Jorgensen, 2 cars of cattle; David Stevens, 1 car of hogs and 1 of cattle.

100 Years Ago (1908):  A very pretty wedding occurred last evening at the suburban home of George Higday,
when his daughter, Jane Evelyn, was united in marriage to John Warren Rodd.  The wedding took place at eight o’
clock, and the wedding march played by Mrs. T. W. North announced the nuptial hour.  The guests consisted of
relatives only, and the ceremony which made the happy couple one was performed by the Rev. T. W. North.  The
bride wore a beautiful gown of tan silk and carried pink carnations.  Following the congratulations, a bountiful three-
course supper was served, the tables and dining room being tastefully decorated with ferns and carnations.  Mr.
and Mrs. Rodd will commence housekeeping at once in the handsome residence which Mr. Rodd recently
purchased of Henry Asmus on Garfield Avenue.  Both young people are well known and popular and hosts of
friends will wish them much happiness in their wedding life.
90 Years Ago (1918):  A deal was completed last week whereby the Saxon Garage, formerly owned and conducted
by Harry Loomis and Warren Rowley became the property of Leslie and Blaine Davis, and will hereafter be run
under the name of Davis Brothers.  These two young men are well known in this city and both of them are
experienced in the business, so it is very probable that they will be able to hold and satisfy the large trade that the
Messrs Loomis & Rowley have built up.  The reason for the sale is that Mr. Rowley has been offered a $4,000 a
year position as superintendent of an iron foundry at Anniston, Ala., an iron foundry town close to Birmingham,
which is called the Pittsburgh of the South.  Mr. Rowley expects to leave to take charge of his new position about
the fifteenth of this month, his family to follow later.  [Note:  This garage was located at 14 West Main.  The
Quonset style building was razed and a new building constructed on the site in the 1960s.]
80 Years Ago (1928):  School Notes:  Next semester school starts at 8:45 in the morning.  This means that some
people will have to get up about fifteen minutes earlier.  School will close at 11:45 and start again at 1:00.  This
leaves the amount of time for noon just the same only it is fifteen minutes earlier.  School will end at 4:00 as usual.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  At its annual meeting held here last week in the G. A. R. hall, the Farmers’ Mutual Fire
Insurance Company of the Town of Union re-elected officers, chose two new directors, and changed its name to
the Union Mutual Fire Insurance Company.  The officers for the ensuing year have been announced as follows:  
Fred Miller, president; Ed. J. Ellis, vice president; C. H. Whitmore, secretary and treasurer; and Lyman Gillies,
Charles Miller, Lee Barnard, and Victor Tullis, directors.  The two new directors are W. G. Patterson, Evansville
and Harry Hook, Brooklyn.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Plans are being completed here this week for a Parent-Teacher Association card party in
the school lunch room.  The arrangement committee is comprised of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Bennett, Mr. and Mrs. Don
Every, Mr. and Mrs. Harry Roderick, Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Dan Kissel, and Mr. and Mrs.
Howard Becher.  Mrs. Howard Estes, social chairman has announced that the party will be held in place of the
neighborhood parities.  In that the party is the only money making event of the year sponsored by the P. T. A., it is
expected that a large crowed will attend.  The admission prices will be 35 cents per person.

50 Years Ago (1958):  An Evansville girl will be commissioned Friday, Jan. 17, as a Methodist missionary to West
Pakistan.  She is Mrs. Donald C. Wold, the former Shelly Thurman.  She and her husband will be among a group of
59 who will be commissioned as missionaries or deaconess of the Methodist Church in ceremonies at Buck Hill
Falls, Pa.  In Pakistan, Mrs. Wold will work in the field of library science, and her husband will teach physics.  Both
of them are graduates of the University of Wisconsin, where Shelly was a honor student.  Her parents are Mr. and
Mrs. John Thurman.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Albert Winn is seeking a seat on the County Board, as is also Richard Eager, present
incumbent from Evansville.  Mr. Winn is a former Evansville Mayor and was a member of the County Board 18
years, two of which he was chairman.  An Evansville business man for many years, Winn had an automobile
agency until 1922, when he entered the coal and gas business, operating the Winn Coal and Gas Co.  He is now
retired.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  John Jordan, son of Rev. and Mrs. I. Dean Jordan, 314 Grove St., is among the nearly 100
students leaving the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point last week to spend the next four months in one of four
overseas centers operated by their alma mater.  John is a member of the group headed for England.

20 Years Ago (1988):  At the regular school board meeting Monday night, the board members approved a plan of
action that would create a handicap access to the middle school building.  After much investigation and study, the
installation of elevators appears to be the only reasonable approach to providing access throughout the middle
school facility.  The estimated cost of this project is $270,000 which would include a seven percent architect cost of
$17,520 and about $1,500 to $2,000 for printing and DILHR fees.  The Evansville School District has recently been
awarded a federal aid grant of $50,500 for removal of architectural barriers to the handicapped.  According to
Supt. Tom Benzinger, Evansville was one of 14 districts to receive grants, all of which were for installing elevators.

The Varco-Pruden building, now under construction on Bullard Road in Union Township is taking shape, as
framing was in process this week.  Worthington Tractor Parts is building this 100’ by 150’ facility, specializing in
service to the ag related community.  Worthington of Minnesota will now have its first Wisconsin branch.

10 years ago (1997):  The Evansville Boys Varsity Basketball Team has 17 straight Rock Valley Conference wins
over the past two seasons.  They are 10-0 for the first half of the season and are presently ranked 4th in the state
in Div. 3.  

In Review
Fourth Week of January 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  For Sale:  A most desirable location within the corporate Village of Evansville, 30 acres of
land for sale! Embracing arable land, timber and pasture together with never failing springs of water.  A most
desirable front on Madison Street for building purposes.  The above is offered for reasonable prices.  Inquire of A.
C. Fish, Evansville, Jan. 22.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. James Hopkins of Center, sold last week, and delivered here 13 choice Poland China
hogs, the aggregate weight being 5, 965 pounds, an average of 450 lbs. each, and the Broderick Brothers
delivered 39 hogs that tipped the scales at 403 pounds each, not a bad average for that number.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  The remains of Mrs. Sarah Beebe Collins, who died in Northwestern Missouri, early the
previous week, were brought here for interment Friday night, and her funeral was held in the Methodist church on
Saturday forenoon.  When her brother got to her late residence, owing to a delay of letters and trains, a funeral
and burial had taken place, but complying with her request, her body was taken up, brought here and laid beside
her mother’s which was buried here almost eighteen years ago.  Mrs. Collins had been twice married, and left,
besides a husband and his two children, three of her own, ranging in age from nine to thirteen years, and who will
find homes with her friends about here.  Mrs. Collins was a fine Christian woman and although she had
experienced trouble in her early married life, in the loss of her husband, yet she bore her trials with Christian grace
and fortitude.  The friends here cordially extend thanks to the people who so kindly lent their aid and assistance in
this their sad hour of affliction.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Tuesday evening, Feb. 1, the ladies of the Baptist Church of Union, are planning to give
one of their famous chicken pie suppers, A large turkey will also be served.  Supper from 7 to 10 o’clock at 25
cents.  In case of a bad evening, the supper will be on the first pleasant evening following.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Early Wednesday forenoon, J. E. Reilly’s residence was badly damaged the result of an
explosion.  Mrs. Reilly lighted the gasoline stove, preparing to do baking and ironing, and crossed the road to look
after her invalid mother.  While attending her mother, the explosion occurred.  Rev. T. W. North was the first one to
arrive at the home, and threw flour on the flames, which were quickly smothered.  Windows in the room were
shattered and pieces of glass were scattered several feet away.  The force of the explosion was sufficient to force
the east side of the building about three inches from the floor sills.  The roof was also separated a couple of
inches.  Considerable other damage was done about the house.  It is still a mystery what was the cause of the
explosion.  It was indeed fortunate that Mrs. Reilly was not in the house at the time.
90 Years Ago (1918):  Prof. J. F. Waddell is in Janesville attending the meeting of high school principals
throughout Rock County, to consider the advisability of allowing young men in the schools to go on farms in the
spring, without lowering their grades.  [Note:  during World War I there was a shortage of farm workers and a great
need for the crops produced on local farms.]
80 Years Ago (1928):  Dan Williams is mad at the weather man.  Recently he fixed himself up with what is called a
“snow flier,” a Ford equipped with Caterpillar tread which will ramble over all kinds of snow drifts at a speed of
twenty-five miles an hour.  As Dan’s mail route, when there is snow, has more drifts to the square mile than a route
should have, he imagined he was fixed for the winter, when lo, and behold, the weather man won’t give him any
snow to even try it out.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Steffin’s Ben Franklin store, which was opened in Evansville last October in the former
Economy building is joining more than 2,600 other home-owned Ben Franklin stores throughout the nation in
sponsoring a nine-cent sale scheduled to start here Friday morning.  The Evansville store has purchased a wide
variety of new goods, including novelties, wearing apparel and household necessities, that represent astounding
values for 9 cents.   

60 Years Ago (1948):  The newly elected officers of St. John’s Lutheran Ladies Aid Society including Mrs. Carroll
Bly, president, Mrs. Chris Nelson, vice president; Mrs. Donald Persons, secretary; and Mrs. Harry Hamilton,
treasurer, recently held a meeting and named the following committees to serve during the ensuing year:  Mrs. Ray
Rosen, sunshine chairman; Mrs. Lester Patterson, Christian nurture; Mrs. Chris Olson, mission box; Mrs. Alf Algrim,
cradle roll; Mrs. Ole Westby, charity; Mrs. A. M. Romstad, promotion; Mrs. Harold Spersrud, historian; Mrs. Harold
Morrison, publicity; Mrs. Alvin Olsen, chairman of sales items; and Mrs. Edwin Teubert and Mrs. Merrill Hyne,
pianists.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Salvage operations were underway Tuesday and Wednesday as the Antes Printing
Company started going through the rubble which was about all there was left of the interior of the Antes building.  
Fire which raged through the building Monday night destroyed most of the interior in about three hours.  Will
Sumner, Jr., manager of the company, said that no estimate can be made until factory representatives of
machinery manufacturers have completed surveying the equipment in the plant, and until they have contractor’s
estimates on the damage to the building.  Origin of the fire is unknown.  Examiners from the state fire marshal’s
office were expected Tuesday, but had not arrived yet by Thursday morning.  Although the printing operations
were of course at a complete standstill, the company plans to continue with publication of the weekly Evansville
Review and Brooklyn Teller, with the help of other printing plants in the area.  The first issue is being printed in the
plant of the Markham’s, owners of the Brodhead Independent Register.  [Note:  the Antes Building is located at 116
East Main.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Mayor Ida T. Conroy turned over the final check in payment of the new Evansville Fire
Station to Robert Helgesen, who with Don Helgesen, of Janesville, owns and operates Helgesen Pruden Sales.  An
open house will soon be held at the new Fire Station.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The emergency medical technicians of Evansville presented a plaque to Dick “Blackie”
Meyers “for loyal service as an EMT.”  Meyers has served on the ambulance since 1960 and was among the first
group of EMT’s trained from Evansville two years ago.  He is leaving Evansville this month to assume a job in
Michigan.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Lauri Ann Sperry and Rudolph Maurice Steinhoff exchanged marriage vows, December 5,
1987,  Reverend Mark Pirazzini officiated in the 4:30 p.m. candlelight service in the United Church of Christ,
Evansville.  A poinsettia altar, built by church ladies, Dee Losey and Ione Gray, provided the setting with
candelabras on each side of the center aisle with evergreen roping and red and ivory bows.  Parents of the couple
are Eugene and Ruth Sperry and Elizabeth Steinhoff and the late Gerald Steinhoff, all of Evansville.  

10 years ago (1998):  At the January 19 special meeting of the Evansville Board of Education, residents, board
members, and educators exchanged ideas, sometimes in heated tones, about where the district should locate a
new building needed to accommodate growth in the student population.  Mary Potter of Potter, Lawson Architects,
Madison, explained two variations of a plan to place a new building near Fair Street, to the east of the high school,
and two variations of a plan to place a new building to the south of the current high school just off South Fifth
Street.
.  
In Review
Last Week of January 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  A petition has been in circulation, the past week, among the taxable inhabitants of the two
school districts embraced mostly within this village, to present to the Board of Supervisors, asking for a
consolidation of separate interests.  The districts as they have been, and now exist, are formed by a line running
nearly midway of the village, and at either end are two rookeries, that in common parlance, called school houses.  
It is a shame that the districts have been suffered to remain in this condition so long as they have, and the move
which is being now made to unite them, is entitled to the greatest consideration.  We cannot see how any voter,
having the good reputation of the place in view, and the social and moral advantages attendant thereto, can for a
moment question the propriety of such a move.  When the two districts are once united a respectable house can
be erected at a point that will accommodate both districts nearly as well as what either do now, and be an honor
and an ornament to the place, without drawing heavily upon the tax payers either.  The idea that such an
arrangement will work an injury to the Seminary is all sophistry.  [Note:  for more information about the history of
Evansville schools see:  http://mywebpage.netscape.com/ruthannmontgomer/Public%20School%20History.html

130 Years Ago (1878):  Some parties captured a large gray wolf on Mr. D. M. Rowley’s farm, some three miles from
town.  He was bearing off the trap set for his wolfship by Mr. Tullar.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Cooksville:  Mr. I. G. Porter has sold the farm he bought of Ed Fellows to the Brunsells,
living on the J. K. P. Porter homestead for $7,000.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  The worst blizzard of the season came Saturday afternoon and night, and everything was
buried deep in snow, but the sun shown as bright and clear on Sunday morning as though nothing unusual had
occurred, but many were late or unable to attend morning church services from clearing the drifted snow from their
doorways and walks.

100 Years Ago (1908):  A part of the high school grounds west of the buildings has recently been flooded from the
city hydrants for the purpose of providing a suitable place for skating.  The ice is now in fine condition and is being
greatly enjoyed by the children.  It is understood that the water was donated and that one or two of our most
prominent citizens were the instigators of the move.  It is to be hoped that before the arrival of another winter Lake
Leota may be restored and as in days of yore make an ideal place where the younger members of the city may go
and enjoy this most healthful of winter sports.
90 Years Ago (1918):  The lecture given by Ivan Fay before a large audience at the opera house last Friday
evening was very interesting and more than delighted all who heard it.  He told in a very entertaining way his
experiences as an ambulance drive in the Verdun district in France.  Here he served five months and it was in the
vicinity of Verdun that some of the heaviest fighting of the entire war has been done.  He wore his uniform just as
he did while in the service and had on exhibition his gas mask, steel helmet, also shrapnel and splinters of shell
that came direct from the battlefields over which he drove an ambulance.  
80 Years Ago (1928):  Miss Helen Ethyln Cain, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Cain, and Earl Deininger, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Charles Deininger, Monticello, were quietly married last Thursday, January 19, in Belvidere, Illinois,
with Rev. Mundell officiating.  They immediately left for Rockford and Beloit where they spent several days.  The
couple will make their home in Janesville, where Mr. Deininger is employed.

70 Years Ago (1938):  January 1, of this year marked the 21st anniversary of Herb Lee as custodian of Maple Hill
cemetery, which is rated as one of the most beautiful, modern, and best kept burial grounds in southern Wisconsin

60 Years Ago (1948):  Miss Carol Brunsell was elected president of the Porter 4-H club for the third consecutive
term at a meeting of the group held last week Wednesday evening in the Eagle school.  Other officers chosen
were Calvin Anderson, vice president; Gertrude Fox, secretary; Thomas Anderson, treasurer, and Carol Brunsell,
reporter.  Committees and project leaders for the coming year are H. S. Raymond, Mrs. Theodore Hatlen, Mrs.
Henry Julseth, Mrs. Malcolm Towns, Mrs. Kenneth Peach, and Lloyd Stearns, advisory committee.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The Rev. William H. Wyler, who founded the Dakotah School for Boys at Dakota,Ill., and the
Wyler School at Evansville, Wis., died at his home in December.  He had lived in Dakota since he retired in 1937.  
An ordained minister now the United Church of Christ, he had served pastorates in Ohio and Nebraska before
coming to Illinois.  The Wyler School, which he established in the former Evansville Academy, has continued under
the same name.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  The largest group of young people baptized and welcomed to the Evansville Baptist Church
recently as new members were Bill Shelby, Keith Stoddard, Kevin Stoddard, Norman Hagen, Robert Miller, Dale
Miller, Randy Phillips, Cheryl Phillips, Lorri Rasmussen, Diane Jorgensen, RoxAnn Smith, and Vicky Thompson.  All
of them previously attended Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and finished a 10 week course in the doctrines
of the Bible and Baptist history.  Rev. Arne Waldemar is pastor.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  The 8.5 cents on the dollar that 100 farmers received for $2 million in claims against
Farmers Grain Exchange are all the assets that FGX owner Ben Green had for paying creditors, the trustee has
advised Federal Bankruptcy Judge Leonard Bessman.  The trustee has two lawsuits pending but other than the
proceeds that may eventually be recovered in these two actions, the estates have been fully administered, the
reports said.  The bankruptcy action began Dec. 23, 1974.

20 Years Ago (1988):  With two firsts and three seconds, Evansville placed third at the wrestling match held at
Albany.  Chris Larsh and Mark Zee both placed first; Toby Kelley, John Seig, Shannon Ringhand, placed second;
Jerry Delzer, Shane Zautke, third; Greg Sendlebach and Brian Reilly, fourth; and Bill Benash sixth place finish..  

10 years ago (1998):  Joseph Wollinger, who has been Culinary Arts instructor at Blackhawk Technical College for
the past 13 years has been chosen Restaurateur of the Year by the Blackhawk Chapter of the Wisconsin
Restaurant Association (WRA).  The Chapter consists of over 80 member restaurants from south central
Wisconsin.  In addition to teaching in BTC’s program. Wollinger also runs the Evansville Country Club restaurant.  
The award is annually presented to a restaurateur who is dedicated to the industry, committed to the profession,
and is involved in community activities.  Candidates also must have a record of running a successful restaurant.  

In Review
First Week of February 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  For Sale:  In Brooklyn, Green County, Wis., four miles west of Evansville, 40 acres of good
prairie land; young bearing orchard and small fruit, frame house, granary and stable.  Also 61 acres; 47 under the
plow, 30 already plowed, the rest is a young grove of wood.  A good bearing orchard is on the place, and a school
house.  Both places are well fenced and will be sold cheap.  For particular information enquire of Joshua Adee on
the place.

130 Years Ago (1878):  During the several weeks past we have seen numerous strangers upon our streets,
attracted hither by the many advantages that Evansville possesses as a business point, and for its social, civil, and
educational advantages.  We don’t know their motives for coming here, only that business men are attracted to
business centers, and so with all other classes.  We have no room for idlers, loafers or vagabonds of any sort.  
The future of Evansville was never brighter than what the closing season presented of 1878 and for the opening of
the coming season.  More building is being planned than any closing year before has presented since the
completion of the railroad here, for the next year, should no unprovidential casualty befall us.  Evansville will
present an era, another year, for growth and business prosperity, not heretofore seen by its present inhabitants.   

120 Years Ago (1888):  The Chicago and Northwestern Co.’s coal shed at this place was burned last week.  The
shed was built new about a year ago, and was the largest and best appointed structure of the kind on the company’
s lines, and must have cost not less than some twenty-thousand dollars.  There appears to have been a mistake in
the architecture in getting it too narrow and too low, hardly giving room for a tall man to stand erect on an ordinary
stock car without striking his head against some of the roof timbers.  It was from this cause that Conductor Frank
W. Lewis was killed Sunday morning, January 29.  Conjecture can only tell how the shed took on fire, but from the
fact that three men had been killed outright about it, and a number of others had their arms broken or their heads
mashed, it is no wonder that there should be little superstitious dread about the place and the company is well
enough satisfied that lightning did not strike it.  However, the shed had been thoroughly looked over and all these
defects which experience had pointed out, would have been remedied.  We regret the loss, and our citizens would
have done anything in their power to have saved it.  The heavy piling on which the structure rested burned even
with the ground, but the filling in done since the shed was built, will make a good foundation to rebuild on.

110 Years Ago (1898):  To comply with the new caucus law, the following inspectors have been appointed in this
city.  First Ward – A. A. Snashall, Ed Fiedler, David Johnson; Second Ward – James Powles, C. S. Scofield, Fred
Gilman; Third Ward, Joel Morgan, Josh Frantz, Darwin Glidden.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Annual meeting of Stock Holders of the Baker Manufacturing Company.  Owing to the
large number of stockholders of this company, the annual meeting this year was held in the City Hall on the 28th
inst.  A resolution was unanimously adopted authorizing the directors to offer to purchase all the preferred stock
owned by any person and the common stock issued to such person in profit sharing at par and paying for the
same in bonds or mortgages at par.  But the matter of the greatest interest was the election of two directors, owing
to the efforts of some of the preferred shareholders to cut out the system of profit sharing that the company have
been operating under during the past nine years with commendable success.  In order to gain their purpose it was
necessary for them to elect both of the directors whose term of office expired this year.  Had this move been
successful it would have been quite revolutionary and would have changed the present policy of the company
radically.  It seems fortunate to all stockholders and to the community at large that the present management was
not displaced, and it is to be hoped that no such cloud may ever again appear to cause disturbance or distrust.
90 Years Ago (1918):  Mayor Byron Campbell thinks that just because he is confined to the house is no reason
why he should be idle.  He has just completed his fifth quilt, and good judges say that they are beauties.  Mayor
Campbell always had a faculty of doing what he did well, and he followed out the same policy in quilting.
80 Years Ago (1928):  For some time there has been smoldering in the minds of some men the desire for a full
time athletic and physical culture teacher in our schools.  Why should we have such a teacher, and where will we
be benefited by spending upwards of $1,500 a year for such training.  Do all of the children in our schools, from
the kindergarten to seniors in high school get the necessary muscular training, is it given under competent
direction?  No, most assuredly not, only those boys and girls, who are on a certain basketball, baseball, or football
team, ever receive any knowledge of how to take care of themselves along this line, or are ever given any real
workouts.  Whereas if we did have a full time paid physical and athletic instructor every child including all ages
would receive the necessary physical development along with the brain development which would broaden their
scope of vision.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Mr. and Mrs. Fred Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Woodworth, and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Viney
and family spent Saturday evening in Janesville where they attended a party given in honor of the 87th birthday of
Orin Viney at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Boden.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Dan F. Finnane Sr., 85, dean of auctioneers, who in more than 50 years of “crying” sales
became widely known in Wisconsin and northern Illinois, died at 9:30 p.m. Monday at his farm home, one mile north
of Evansville.  He had been in failing health for more than a year and seriously ill since last October.  The funeral
was at 9:30 a.m. Thursday in the Finnane home and at 10 o’clock in St. Paul’s church.  Burial was in Calvary
cemetery, Craok Settlement.  Rosary service was 8 p.m. Wednesday in the Finnane home.  Pallbearers were six
grandsons, William, John, Thomas, and Richard Meredith, James and Dan Finnane.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Boys and girls of the Forest Academy School, Evansville demonstrated the varied forms
music can take by singing fun songs, popular numbers, a German song and patriotic numbers on WCLO
Schooltime.  Vocalists were Bob Hirschfield, Delbert and Junior Schneeberger, Elaine Bowen, Gloria and Greg
Mani, Joe Peterson, Judy Natz, Darrell Bowen, Lynda Peterson, Susan Hirschfield, Sharon Olson, Robert Bowen,
Robert and Ralph Crull, Terry Olson, Valerie Peterson, Jane Crull.  Miss Kay Arnold is the teacher and Mrs. Leona
Kislia, the music teacher.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Evansville School Board approved the purchase of new band uniforms for the high
school band.  Ninety uniforms and 15 hats will be purchased at a cost of $7,247.95.  School board members are
Mrs. Vaughn Petersen, Gordon Kazda, Mrs. S. J. Rivers, David Fellows, Dr. Howard Krueger, Arnold Willis and
Robert Kelley.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Eager Free Public Library has been remembered by another former Evansville resident.  
Victoria Glenn Yates has donated a copy of the “Why Me?”  This is a collection of her poems many of which have
been published in magazines.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  Gordon & Margaret Brigham, owners of the Coast to Coast Store will hold their grand
opening sale in their new location at 7 East Main Street on Wednesday, February 3.  The store features a craft
center, custom color paint & wallpaper, rug Rinse ‘n Vac, widow shade cutting, scissor sharpening, dry cleaning
pickup center, key cutting and glass cutting.   

10 years ago (1998):  Grace Independent Baptist Church of Evansville has announced a new pastor.  Pastor
Ronald F. Gay, with his wife Karla, and children, Stephen, Samuel, Simeon, Sylvia and Suzannah, have recently
moved to the parsonage from Aztalan, Wisconsin.  Pastor Gay will be co-pastoring with Pastor Lyle Trow for
approximately one year.  The Trows, who will always minister, are taking a major step in their lives, and are
preparing to retire from the full time professional responsibilities of the pastorate.  They have moved back to their
farm home near County C and E. Pastor Gay is a graduate of Maranatha Baptist Bible College in Watertown,
Wisconsin.  


In Review
Second Week of February 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Mr. C. H. Wilder, of Evansville, Cheese Factory, has been attending the Dairyman’s
Association which was held at Belvidere, Feb. 11.  He takes quite a prominent action in the Association and offers
some remarks that speak of a practical experience in the cheese business.  We copy a few items from the Chicago
Republican, and think the suggestions he offers worthy to be acted upon by the patrons of his factory in this
place.  One, with regard to a proper cooling of the milk before it reaches the factory, and the expulsion of all animal
heat, is a good one.  Another suggestion he offers quite as important to cheese making – cleanliness.  Mr. Wilder
has been spending most of the winter among the dairymen of New York, and his observations will add greatly to his
practical experience in his business here.  His absence has been the cause for not publishing an annual statement
of the cheese business in Evansville the past year, which we hope to be able to do upon his return.

130 Years Ago (1878):  If there is one thing more that all in which our citizens can take pride, it is the Evansville
Cornet Band.  The boys have purchased their own instruments, procured neat and tasty uniforms, hired a hall, and
meet twice a week for practice under a paid instructor.  Their improvements are apparent.  Now this has all been
done without asking a single cent from voluntary contribution or otherwise.  They are making themselves
thoroughly proficient in all that constitutes a first class band.  Owing to the unfavorable weather and slim
attendance at the entertainment given by the band Saturday evening, they propose to repeat at an early date with
an entire change of programme consisting of vocal and instrumental music and the immensely funny comedy
“Dundecketty’s Picnic.”  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mrs. Geo. Jones, nee Lizzie Jarman, living near Albany, died Monday Jan. 30, 1888.  Her
remains were interred in the English Settlement cemetery.  Died.  Friday, Feb. 10th, 1888 of heart disease, Mrs.
John Nevill of Magnolia Township, age 75 years.  Died.  Thursday Feb. 9, 1888 of old age and complication of
diseases, Mr. Charles Rowley, aged 91 years, 10 months and 7 days.  Magnolia.  Thos. Gorey died Tuesday
night.  A. York, died Monday night.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Fisher expect to start for Alexander, Va. Where they expect to make
their future home, about the 23rd, of this month.  Mr. Fisher will go into the windmill business and handle the Baker
Co.’s goods of this city.  We wish him success in his new undertaking.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The management of the Northwestern Railroad has decided to use gasoline motors for
branch line work in the State of Wisconsin and to gradually extend their use to supplant locomotives wherever
possible.  This decision is due to successful experiments with a motor car for several months on the new line
between Norfolk, Neb. and Bonesteel, S. D.  Yesterday a successful run with the motor was completed from Omaha
to Chicago.  No attempt was made at a record run, but it was stated that on portions of the road between Clinton
and Chicago, a maximum speed of sixty miles an hour was maintained for considerable distances.  The car was
purchased from the Union Pacific, which has agreed to build several for the Northwestern’s use as soon as
possible.  
90 Years Ago (1918):  Golder R. Lawrence, Scout Master, received notice that the Boy Scouts of Evansville were
Federalized and subject to call by the government for local messenger work.  All war bulletins will be delivered to
homes by Boy Scouts.
80 Years Ago (1928):  The second grade has begun a language project on Lincoln, Washington, and St.
Valentine.  LaVerne Helgeson and Evangeline Jorgenson have read more books than anyone else in second
grade.  Both have reported on 14.  On last Thursday the second and third grade boys played a very exciting game
of basketball.  Second grade scored five points and third grade, 3.  Teddy Thompson, LaVerne Helgeson and
Bobby Wolfe starred for second grade.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The crew managed by Jacob Nihart which has been at work here during the past three
months wrecking the old Hotel Central, historic land mark of the city, has now leveled the building to the ground
floor.  The flooring is now being removed and according to Mr. Nihart, the remaining part of the structure will be
cleared away within the next week.  The lack of men on the job and the extreme cold wave have been a serious
handicap during the past week.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  Public Market for the sale or purchase of Baker Manufacturing Company common and
preferred stock shares.  The first quarterly sale will be held at the main office at 133 Enterprise Street on
Wednesday afternoon, March 10, 1948, immediately after the close of the adjourned annual stockholders
meeting.  It is estimated that the stock sale meeting will start about 4 p.m.  In the past, holders of the shares and
prospective purchasers had no ready means of knowing who was interested in buying or selling shares and no
common meeting place in which to consider or close deals.  These sales are open to the general public.

50 Years Ago (1958):   A student school patrol system is being set up here under the leadership of Police Chief
George Walk, and with the cooperation of school authorities.  The patrol will aid in seeing that young students get
safely across the more dangerous and heavily used crossings in the school area.  The students in fifth, sixth,
seventh, and eighth grades will be used on the patrol.  The patrol will be equipped with white safety belts and
badges to be worn during their duty hours.

40 Years Ago (1968):  E. M. Lunning, a research representative for Continental Manors, Inc., a nationally known
group concerned with the organization, building and operation of nursing homes, is presently conducting an
extensive survey of interest and need in the Evansville Community.  This effort is in response to numerous
inquiries received by the company indicating an interest in and need for a nursing home facility to serve area
needs.   

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Evansville Board of Education holds their regular meeting Monday Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m.
in the high school library.  The following items will be on the agenda:  1.  a curriculum addition, family life unit; 2.  a
request by the student council to permit smoking; 3.  a request by Ron Grovesteen for a student trip to
Washington D. C.; 4. a Title I approval (continuation of previous program; 5.  a teacher request for a leave of
absence; 6.  a contract for the school nurses aide.  Architects for the middle school remodeling project will also
appear to enter into an architectural contract agreement.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  At the annual meeting of the Board of Directors of the Union Bank & Trust Company held
Tuesday Feb. 9, 1988, Leonard P. Eager, Jr. was elected President to succeed his father, Leonard P. Eager.  All
other directors and officers were reelected.  Leonard P. Eager, Jr. joined the bank on July 1, 1948 and has served
in many capacities since that time.

10 years ago (1998):  The Evansville Community Theatre’s first production “The Odd Couple,” will be performed
this Friday and Saturday at the J. C. McKenna Middle School auditorium.  Phil Toler plays Speed; Scott Feldt,
Vinnie; Todd Campbell, Roy; Dave Persons, Murray; Mary Whitney-Hartje, Cecily Pigeon; and Sue Woulfe plays
Gwendolyn Pigeon.  .  

In Review
Third Week of February 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Masonic:  A Chapter of Royal Arch Masons was instituted in Evansville on Wednesday last
(Feb. 12th) by acting Most Excellent Grand Master, M. L. Young, when the following officers were installed:  J. M.
Evans, H. P.; C. M. Smith, K; G. E. Newman, S; Nelson Winston, Treasurer; M. W. Sheafe, Sec’y; J. I. Foot,
Chaplain; Hiram Brown, C. H.; Orren Velie, P. S.; J. R. Whitney, H.A.C.; H. M. Allen, Gr. M. 3d Veil; F. R. Melvin, Gr.
M. 2d Veil; Jas. Norton, Gr. M. 1st Veil; Wm. W. Garfield, Guard.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Frank Springer has deposited upwards of 300 tons of ice in his ice house, and will
continue to deposit so long as he can get ice from 8 to 9 inches thickness, until his house is filled—holding some
500 tons.

120 Years Ago (1888):  The horse buyers and tobacco buyers are doing the principal wholesale business in this
section at present.  Mr. John Utter, of Delavan, shipped a car of horses from this place last night and Barnard and
son with their buyer, P. C. Wilder, are purchasing large quantities of tobacco, as well as Mr. George Rumrill of
Fulton.  The outlook for business seems to be improving a little as we near the close of a hard winter.

100 Years Ago (1898):  Electric lights have been added to the new high school building.

110 Years Ago (1908):  Having rented my farm situated four miles N. W. of Evansville and four miles south of
Brooklyn, one-half mile west of the county line, known as the old Harrison Simmons farm.  I will sell at public auction
on Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 10 o’clock a.m. the following described property, to-wit:  6 horses, Holstein bull, 7 choice
cows, 13 brood sows, Poland China boar, grain binder, corn binder, mower, hay rake, gang plow, 15-shoe drill,
corn planter, 14-disk pulverizer, walking plow, 2 corn plows, tobacco cultivator, three section stee drag, high
wagon, low wagon, truck wagon, top buggy, 2 bob sleighs, light sleigh, single harness, 1 set driving harness, 2 set
work harness, spare harness, roller, fanning mill, hay rack, corn sheller, grain sacks, and many other articles too
numerous to mention.  Free lunch at noon.  D. F. Finnane, Auctioneer, W. W. Gillies, Clerk.  Frank Kleinsmith,
Prop.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The resignation of Earl Gibbs at the power house this week made a line of promotion all
along the line.  Palmer Slauson succeeds Mr. Gibbs and Lemuel Courtier takes the place of Mr. Slauson, and
George Young is the new man.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Rock County farmers are interested in a movement that is gaining momentum in all sections
of the state.  Many local farms are selecting attractive names for their farm homes and farm establishments.  
Already more than 70 farmers of this county have selected names for their farms and recorded them with F. P.
Smiley, County Register of Deeds.  A state law provides that a farmer may register, upon payment to the register
of deeds, a fee of 25 cents, a farm name, which has not already been recorded.  Among nearby farms already
registered are:  Burr Oak, Lloyd Hubbard; Bonnycroft, Stanley Perry; Elmwood, Chas. H. Ballard; Evergreen, Wm.
A. Davenport; Kozy Knoll, Frank T. Croak; Maple Knoll, F. W. Holt; Maple Lawn, Geo. Everill; The Maples, B. P.
Hess, and Sunny Slope, C. H. Whitmore.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Donovan Every was elected president at a meeting of the newly organized Evansville
Camera Club held in the American Legion rooms at the City Hall here Sunday afternoon.  Bernard Sorensen was
chosen vice president and William Ware, secretary and treasurer.  Plans were laid at the meeting for a picture
exhibit to be held in the near future.  In preparation for the photo display members will take their entries to a
special club meeting.  The camera club is open to all amateur photographers and meets every other Sunday
afternoon in the City Hall.

60 Years Ago (1948):  A mass initiation of 22 members into the Evansville Veterans of Foreign Wars will be held
here at 2 p.m. Sunday in the K. P. Hall with a Janesville initiation team in charge of the ceremonies.  Following is a
list of those to become members:  Stephen J. Carlson, Gordon M. Jones, Donald L. Weaver, LaVerne B. Helgesen,
Richard J. Shea, Robert P. Levin, Harold E. Zwickey, Wm. H. Keyes, Walter E. Wieland, Wallace J. Olsen, Warren
Adams, George E. Fritscher, Virgil Lamb, Roy J. Wilkinson, Gordon Hartin, Harold M. Phillips, Howard E.
Thompson, Phillip Roberts, Bill N. May, Merlin O. Reese, John B. Wall.  The organization has rented the Woodman
hall in which to hold its meetings.

50 Years Ago (1958):  New officers of Porter 4-H for this year are David Viney, President; Paul Robertson, Vice
President; Donna Haakenson, Secretary; Connie Hatlen, Treasurer; Jean Falligant, Reporter, and Ardis Templeton
and Paul Haakenson, junior council representatives.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Recently elected officers and directors of the Union Mutual Insurance Co. are Ray Ryan,
President; Walter Haberman, vice president; George Krajeck, Potter Porter, Malcolm Towns, Alva Selck, Leon S.
Patterson and Leslie Hook, directors.   Charles Maas, secretary-treasurer;

30 Years Ago (1978):  Hensel’s Antiques recently opened a display area at Ken’s Karpet Korner, featuring
Victorian walnut, French and primitives.  Hensel’s formerly operated a shop in their home on Lincoln St. and have
been in the antique business for fifteen years.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  Customers are becoming used to the new postal boxes in the Evansville Post Office, which
were installed this past week.  The new installation allows for many more postal boxes, than previous, according to
Postmaster Richard Knudtson.  The new boxes have keys insteadof  combination locks.  Knudtson reminds
customers that the stamp vending machines in the lobby are a big convenience.  The Evansville Post Office has,
this past year, taken on a new look in many ways.

10 years ago (1998):  Spring is in the air.  That is what everyone is feeling these days.  With temperatures nearing
the 50 degree mark on Sunday and sunshine to boot, thoughts of winter seem far away.  The snow has melted and
the signs of spring are around.  Geese are flying, cardinals are singing, little plants are poking up through the
ground.  This is the warmest winter in 100 years, the weather people are saying.  El Nino is given the credit or
blame as the case may be for whatever weather befalls us.  

In Review
Fourth Week of February 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Almost a fire.  On Thursday last the usual calmness of our village was startled by the
magic cry of fire.  Smoke was seen to issue in curling masses from the roof of the house of Mr. Wm. Campbell on
Madison Street and now tenanted by Messrs. Adams & Snashall.  Men hurridly grasped water pails and buckets
and rushed to the scene.  The alarm was timely, and before the flames had fairly burst from the roof its destructive
powers were deluged by the timely arrival of water.  Several little hand force pumps, owned by some of our
merchants, did excellent service, as water could be more directly and effectively applied.  The origin of the fire was
from an accumulation of soot in the stove pipe, which overheating, ignited the adjacent wood work.  The fire
occurring at midday ample assistance was readily obtained and a general conflagration avoided.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The new fire engine was received Friday and put in order for business.  It was hauled
round to the cistern in the rear of the bank building.  The breaks were manned by as many as could comfortably
work, and threw water through one hundred feet of hose nearly across the street to Griswold’s corner, and up on
the roof of the bank building, and the same upon the Spencer House.  It was hardly a fair test, but a proof that the
machine was in working order.  To have made a thorough test heavier men should have taken the breaks, with a
relay close at hand.  It threw a very steady stream, and would have done good execution in case of a fire, under
similar circumstances.  It was evidently a mistake in getting so small a machine; but our village board, with a due
regard for the purse, did not feel justified in purchasing a larger one at a much greater cost.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Died at his home in Magnolia, Feb. 19th, at 3 o’clock a.m., of pneumonia, Almeron York,
aged about 48 years.  Deceased was a soldier of the late war, enlisting in the 13th Reg. Wis. Vol., serving his
country faithfully.  He leaves a wife who is nearly prostrated with grief, and two brothers to mourn his death.  The
family have the sincere sympathy of their many friends in this their hour of deepest sorrow.

110 Years Ago (1898):  The most severe storm of the season and in fact for years in this section prevailed during
Saturday and Sunday.  Snow commenced falling Saturday morning and continued without cessation until Monday
morning, when everything outside was buried deep in snow, and even on Sunday morning many were unable to
attend their church duties, being obliged to shovel their way out of their homes, and walks, which kept them busy a
greater part of the day, as the snow continued falling and blowing throughout the day, so that it became necessary
to postpone all regular church meetings in the evening, something that we fail to recollect of ever occurring in this
city before.  No trains from the south have reached here yet, at noon Monday, and the time of their arrival is still
very uncertain.  

100 Years Ago (1908):  Prof. A. H. Sholtz has resigned his position as principal of the high school, to take effect at
the end of the school year.  Mrs. Sholtz and children will leave for their farm near Oregon, next month.  Mr. Sholtz
feels that after twenty years’ service as a teacher, he wishes to devote his time to his farm duties.  It is with deepest
regret that Evansville people accept his resignation.
90 Years Ago (1918):  The following pupils of the Forest Academy who have been neither absent nor tardy the
past month are Myrtle Montgomery, Melvin Montgomery, Mary Montgomery and Edwin Griffith.  
80 Years Ago (1928):  Last Sunday night about 5:30 the fire whistle blew, and nearly everyone shivered, thinking
what an awful night it was for a fire.  The fire department was called to the home of Frank Sands on Lincoln Street
to extinguish a chimney fire.  The department responded promptly and very little damage was done, however, if the
fire had gained any headway, considerable damage might have resulted to the neighborhood, as it was just such a
night as this two years ago that the Milbrandt house burned south of town and very little of the household goods
were saved, and the same thing might have happened here had the fire been given any headway.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Richard Baird, registered pharmacist and son of Mrs. Peter Baird, this city, who for the past
year has been employed as assistant manager of a Rennebohm drug store in Madison, has purchased an interest
in the Collins drug store here located in the Grange building and will return to Evansville March 1, to assume his
new duties.  Mr. Baird was graduated from the Evansville High School in 1928.  He completed a course in
pharmacy at Marquette University, Milwaukee in 1930 and became a registered pharmacist in 1934.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Despite a limited enrollment for the 1948-49 school year, voters of the Brown school district
east of Evansville at a special meeting Tuesday night of last week decided almost unanimously to keep their one-
room school operating.  The school now has nine children, and next term will have but six.  Costs of operation were
estimated at $2,000 to $3,000 against tuition payments of $85 to $90 per pupil in the Evansville School system.
Herbert Christensen, clerk of the district, said that it is hoped Miss Virginia Fenn, the teacher, will return next term.  
He said that sentiment in behalf of the old school and a desire to avoid taking any action until further study is made
of pending consolidation programs in the Evansville area prompted the voters to favor the higher costs.

50 Years Ago (1958):   A play “Aladdin’s Lamp,” will be given Friday by some of the fifth grade students.  The cast
is as follows: Dennis Erbs, Bradley Bishop, Kathryn Townsend, Candace Ware, Nancy Lamont, Sandra Hatlevig, Jo
Brown, Sandra Williams, Elaine Skoien, Cheryl Olson and Genevieve Popanz.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  Three Magnolia 4-H members received high ratings in the Rock County Speech Contest
held Feb. 20th at the Rock County Court House.  Lucille Rowald, speaking in the Senior Group Division received a
Blue Rating.  She was also judged Top Speaker for Rock County.  Sally Mauerman accredited the Junior Division
with a top Blue Rating also.  Jo Anne Rowald took over for the Junior Division and came home with a Red Rating.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  Evansville police officer Alan Christensen accepted a job as Chief of the Brodhead Police
Department Thursday night.  The Brodhead City Council unanimously approved offering the job to Christensen
after searching for a replacement since December when former Policy Chief Bruce Hannan resigned.  The City
Council has not yet determined a replacement.  An Evansville native, Christensen has been on the local police
force since 1972.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Voters in the city of Evansville didn’t show much interest in last Tuesday’s Primary Election.  
Only 127 voters registered their vote for Judge for Branch 7.  In the Town of Union, voting was just as sparse.  
Thirty-five votes were cast.  

10 years ago (1998):  Candidates for the two available Board of Education seats in the April 1998 school district
election are Dennis J. Hughes and Georgia Duerst-Lahti.  The resignation of Alan Pitas as a member of the
Evansville Board of Education was accepted by the Evansville Community School District Board of Education.  

In Review
First Week of March 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The election of village officers yesterday was the occasion of a little excitement by parties
desiring the re-establishment of public billiard playing and those who were opposed to it.  Billiard playing was made
the subject of an ordinance nearly a year ago, declaring it to be unlawful to keep a table for that purpose, and the
contest now seemed to be mainly, to elect a Board who would disannul that ordinance and restore the amusement
to the free enjoyment of all.  Below is the ticket elected and resulted by a clever majority in favor of the anti-billiard
party:  For President of the Board: I. M. Bennett; For Trustees:  George F. Spencer, Levi Leonard, J. W. Hazeltine,
Caleb Snashall; For Treasurer:  Nelson Winston; For Clerk:  John T. Baker.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The vote was the lightest we have polled for a number of years.  Village Election:  For
President:  M. V. Pratt; Trustees, D. B. Huckins, W. W. Garfield, Byron Campbell, Lewis Spencer; Clerk: James H.
Hoskins; Treasurer:  Reuben Winston; Supervisor, M. V. Pratt; Justice of the Peace, D. M. Rowley; Constable, H.
W. Smith.  We mentioned last week that we probably had a pro billiard license board this year; but this is not the
case by reference to the men elected.  We knew that Mr. Pratt loved a game of billiards and foreshadowed the
result accordingly.  In justice to Mr. Pratt, while he loves a quiet game of billiards, he is an avowed temperance
man, and will do more perhaps to suppress the insolence that is too apt to be the accompaniment of the billiard
room than some who have been elected President solely on that purpose.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Dr. J. H. Innis, our new M. D., called upon us the other day.  He has rented an office in
Mrs. Hyne’s building, on Main Street, and can be roused in night time by ringing the door bell at Mrs. Sawtelle’s
boarding house, next west of the Baptist Church, Church Street.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Married:  At the residence of the officiating clergyman, Rev. O. P. Bestor, Feb. 25, Mr.
John B. Reese and Miss Anna Larson.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Miss Mary Thompson and Clarence George were married at high noon, today, March 3,
1908, at the home of the bride’s aunt, Mrs. Joseph Shiveley; Rev. D. Q. Grabill officiated.  The happy couple will
reside on the Shiveley farm.  We extend hearty congratulations.
90 Years Ago (1918):  L. J. Davis, of the firm of Davis Bros., who is a knight of the grip, is home from his last trip
and soon expects to retire from the road to give his entire attention to the garage owned by him and his brother,
Blaine in this city.  
80 Years Ago (1928):  A Pittsburg, Pa. paper recently in giving an account of a poster contest which was put on
there recently by the theaters and advertising concerns states that Milford Dake won third prize, valued at $25.  
Mr. Dake won this prize over several hundred competitors and in competition like that it is quite an honor to get
even favorable mention.  Milford is this winter taking a course in an art school and judging from the success he has
had in this contest is doing well.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Downing Lake Mills at Stoughton 30 to 17 before a capacity crowd, Coach George O’Neil’s
high school cagers closed a most remarkable season Tuesday night with 16 straight victories and no defeats.  
Bernie Golz collected nine points to lead the winners with Bob Horne following with five points.  The team members
are Ted Greenway, Ted Thompson, Bernie Golz, Robert Horne, Donald Rosen, Orland Hubbard, Prentice Eager,
Jack McKenna, Jerry Fellows, Robert Graham, Bill Schuster, and LaVerne Helgesen.  Thompson and Golz are co-
captains of the championship team.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  Descending upon Evansville last Friday with very little warning was the worst flood the city
has had in at least 25 years.  It began to rain about 7 a.m. Friday and although many citizens remarked that it was
the first rain we had had this winter, no one was alarmed about the results until about 2 o’clock in the afternoon
when the creek began to rise rapidly and it was not until about 6 p.m. that the situation became serious.  The east
end of Leota Park became a second Lake Leota, and basements along North Madison Street were flooded
causing damage to furnaces, motors and canned fruit.  Thousands of fish went over the spillways and when the
water receded were left on the flats which had been covered.  Both the Main Street and Church Street bridges
were under water.  Waeffler Frozen Food locker plant was flooded with 20 inches of water in the boiler room and
Evansville Feed and Fuel Co., sustained a loss when a basement storeroom was flooded, damaging three trucks
and several motors.  The pattern room and foundry of the Baker Manufacturing Company were flooded.  The rain,
along with the melting snow and the fact that the ground was frozen too hard to soak up the surface water, was the
main cause.

50 Years Ago (1958):   Roger Hamilton and David Franklin, high school students at Evansville High School were
winners in the Renk Late Maturity Corn Project.  Roger is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Hamilton.  David is the son
of Mr. and Mrs. Oliver Franklin.  One thousand five hundred and ninety-eight students entered the project.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  Claude E. Willoughby left Wednesday for California to attend the wedding of his daughter,
Miss Susan Willoughby on Mar 9.  He will return home Monday accompanied by his other daughter and husband,
Mr. and Mrs. Ron Pierce and son, Jack, who have been residing in Japan the past three years.  Pierce is being
discharged from the service and he and Mrs. Pierce and son plan to live in Evansville.

30 Years Ago (1978):   A 9.5 per cent increase in base salary for the 1978-79 school year, representing an
approximate $10,000 base salary, was proposed last week by the Evansville Education Association (EEA) in the
opening round of contract negotiations with the Evansville Board of Education.  Another EEA proposal was for a
minimum of 50 minutes of duty-free uninterrupted preparation time per day.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  The public hearing set for Monday night on the proposed Countryside Estates, on the east
edge of town, was cancelled, but still evolved into a public hearing.  Prent Eager, member of the Plan Commission
said the commission had approved the concept, but the council had taken action to make the change in zoning to
a mobile home park.  Harlan Miller said there were many unanswered questions, such as the sewer system being
adequate, taxes, how the housing will be administered, etc.  Mel Janes, whose property adjoins the proposed
project said there would be surface water drained on his land.  Other citizens registered concerns for the aesthetic
value of Evansville.  

10 years ago (1998):  The City of Evansville is accepting sealed bids for riprap shoreline protection along the bank
of Lake Leota until March 23, 1998.  The City of Evansville has approved a budget of $15,000 for shaping the
bank to a 3:1 slope; furnishing and installing geo-textile fabric; furnishing and installing medium riprap; and
furnishing, installing and maintaining erosion control. The amount of shoreline projection identified by the City is
approximately 500 linear feet.  

In Review
Second Week of March 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  NEW STORE:  The store just vacated by Mr. Louis Adler, is now being opened by Messrs.
Smith & Eager.  Their goods are all new—bought expressly for this market, and embrace a general assortment of
domestic goods, groceries, crockery, glass and earthen ware.  Mr. Smith has been for some years connected with
the mercantile business in Janesville and comes to this place with practical experience in the business he engages
in.  He knows the wants of the people and can supply them in a very pleasing manner from his well filled shelves.  
Mr. Eager is known to our townspeople as an honorable, industrious, independent farmer and requires no words
from us to assure this.  Call and see them.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The telephone is no longer an experiment.  Evansville has caught the infection.  Wires
were hung Saturday from Lehman’s furniture store connecting with the office at the depot, and a person talking in
a slow, distinct voice could be distinctly heard at either end.  Ordinary conversation could be carried on, and
musical tunes could be readily understood.  It was gotten up for no practical purpose, but the process of operation
is so simple that one will hardly believe that he is in conversation with a person miles away and whose voice is
carried upon the wave of a single wire.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mr. M. V. Edwards has leased the Evansville House on the east side, and will commence to
occupy it today.  We understand that Mr. Sale will go back on his farm in Magnolia. [Note:  The Evansville House, a
hotel, was on the site of the Citgo Station at the corner of Union and East Main Street.  Mordicai Sale was the
previous operator of the hotel.]

110 Years Ago (1898):  Bert Campbell has been selected as one of two from the State University at Madison, to
accompany a government survey and geology party to Alaska, who take their departure the last of this month.  
[Note:  Bert Campbell was the son of Byron Campbell.  He sent many artifacts from Alaska to his father.  Byron
donated his collection to the museum in Evansville’s City Hall.]

100 Years Ago (1908):  Chief-of-Police Broughton is suffering from a broken rib and other injuries.  While he was
loading cases of tobacco into a car, the platform, extending from the warehouse door to the car, fell, and he was
caught between the car and a case of tobacco, in such a manner as to cause the injuries.
90 Years Ago (1918):  Last Saturday, Miss Elsie Richards, formerly of Mauston, but for some time a resident of this
city, who has made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Rooney, was united in marriage at Rockford to John U.
Elmer, an Evansville boy who is a member of Co. D, 331st machine gun battalion and is stationed at Camp Grant.  
The young couple were married at the Methodist parsonage of that city by the Rev. Fiske.  The young couple then
went to the groom’s home at Brooklyn, where a reception was given them and congratulations tendered.  Sunday,
they returned to Evansville, the groom having to leave on the evening train for his duties at Camp Grant.  The
bride will continue to make her home at the Rooney home, and will go with them onto their farm near Brooklyn,
where they are moving this week.
80 Years Ago (1928):  Miss Anna Klutterman, and Archie Crawford both of this city were married at 11:30 a.m.
Saturday in Belvedere, Illinois.  The bride wore a blue georgette gown and carried a bouquet of white roses.  They
were attended by Mr. and Mrs. William Crawford. The happy couple returned Saturday night and were guests of
honor Sunday at a family dinner in the home of the bride's sister Mrs. Herman Smith.  Mr. and Mrs. Crawford will
make their home in the Carpenter flats on East Main Street.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The congregation of St. John’s Lutheran church has been at work here during the past
week preparing and furnishing the house at 20 South First for use as a parish hall.  The house, recently vacated
by the Robert Hubbard family, was purchased by the Lutherans several weeks ago and will be used for all
Lutheran organization meetings and the Saturday school with the second floor reserved for the church offices.  
Members of St. John’s Lutheran Ladies Aid Society have equipped the interior with chairs, tables, drapes, and
other furnishings.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The Evansville Community fire truck was called to the farm home of Mr. and Mrs. Melvin
Reese three miles east of Evansville at 3 p.m. Sunday to extinguish a fire caused by a defective chimney.  Mrs.
Reese and children were in Evansville attending a movie and Mr. Reese was asleep in the house.  When he
awakened the house was filled with smoke and the blaze broke through the roof just as the fire truck arrived.  An
estimated $600 damage was done to the house and very little to the furnishings.  The farm is owned by Mrs. Reese’
s father, Fred Luchsinger.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The Magnolia 4-H Club is presenting a play and chorus selection in the 4-H Music Drama
tournament in the Evansville High School auditorium.  The chorus is under the direction of Mrs. Frank Hamilton,
accompanied by Roberta Rowald.  They are singing, “This Is My Father’s World” and “Easter Parade.”  Chorus
members are Joy Andrew, Mary Ellen Austin, Sue Austin, Tom Butcher, Robert Dammen, Allen Davis, Jack
Hamilton, Dick Harper, David Hamilton, Judy Nipple, Larry Olsen, Dean Spersrud, Carole Rowald, Sandra Rowley,
Carol Spersrud, John Spanton and Victor Spanton.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Evansville Volunteer Fire Department elected officers for 1968-69 at their annual
meeting March 11.  Elected to Assistant Chief was Les Golz; Captain, Charles Nordeng; Lieutenant, Donald Olsen;
Secretary, Robert Olsen; Treasurer, William Erbs; Steward, Robert Gallman; and Assistant Steward, Donald
Weaver.  The department unanimously elected Laurence Skoien as Chief for the next two years, contingent upon
the approval of the Mayor and City Council.  Kenneth Gallman, Art Harnack, and Richard Golz were appointed to
the new member investigating committee.  Donald Weaver and Art Harnack donated their prize money for selling
the most dance tickets towards the purchase of a new flag for the meeting room.

30 Years Ago (1978):   Evansville native Mitch Hull earned a fourth place finish in the 190 lbs. weight class of last
weekend’s NCAA wrestling tournament.  Hull lost just two matches in the tournament, a semi-final bout.  Dave
Goodspeed scored one of the biggest upsets of the tournament at 134 lbs. Thursday when he defeated defending
NCAA champion Ken Mallory in the first round.  However, the Evansville native lost in the next round.     

20 Years Ago (1988):  Thomas Hefty, Blue Cross-Blue Shield President, was in Evansville for a quarterly meeting
and to give the Evansville Chamber of Commerce an update, since their grand opening held seven months ago in
Evansville.  He reported that financially 1987 has been a very good year for the company.  Today, there are 38
employees in Evansville and it is anticipated that this will reach 63 by the end of the year.  Hefty also said they
were pleased with the great quality and well educated labor force in Evansville.  Evansville was the second area
office to open in the state.  

10 years ago (1998):  About 20 persons attended the Monday morning meeting at the City Hall concerning the
removal of Union Pacific rail track north of Evansville.  Representatives from the larger companies in Evansville, VP
Buildings, Baker Mfg., Stoughton Trailers, Nelson Young Lumber Co., and the Union Coop, were mainly concerned
about the segment of rail which runs from Janesville to Evansville, not north of Evansville.  Oregon and Fitchburg
are interested in retaining the railroad tracks, seeing into the future for a possible rail transit.  However, DOT
officials indicate this would be a very slim possibility.  The 15-mile section of track to be abandoned could be used
as a recreational trail, a Union Pacific Railroad spokesman has indicated to members of the Evansville Chamber.  
The line is a money-loser and has been used lately for an occasional fertilizer shipment to Oregon.

In Review
Third Week of March 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Married.  At Evansville, March 14, 1868, by the Rev. E. Robinson, John R. Darling and
Betsy G. Griffith, both of Porter.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Married.  Runey – Ballard.  At the residence of the bride’s parents, Mr. Joseph B. Runey,
of Oregon, Dane County, Wis., and Miss Adora M. Ballard of Union, Rock County, Wis., by Rev. E. Bovee,
Richland, Wis.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Stone and other materials are being delivered on the spot for the new Seminary building
preparatory to an early start this Spring.  Mr. Wm. Libby has the contract. [Note:  The second building in the
Seminary complex was a cream brick structure.  William Libby was an Evansville contractor, responsible for many
of the beautiful homes in the city.]

110 Years Ago (1898):  No one seems to feel sorry that to all appearances spring is near at hand.  We have not
had an extremely cold winter, but an unusual amount of snow and bad roads, keeping people housed up until they
feel much relieved to get out and breathe the pure air.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Invitations are out for the marriage of Miss Clara Brunsell, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl
Brunsell, and Mr. Ole A. Westby, which will take place at the bride’s home, on Saturday evening, March 21, 1908,
at 6:30 o’clock.
90 Years Ago (1918):  The drive for books for the soldier boys in the camps and in the trenches went far beyond
the hopes of the promoters in this city, there being given in this good cause a little over five hundred books.  The
books were packed at once and will go to the headquarters first and then to the different camps where they are
needed the worst.  Miss May Phillips, librarian at the public library, had the matter in charge and it was through her
efforts and those of the committee that the affair was such a success.  Many is the soldier, who in his idle
moments, will appreciate these books and will silently thank the ones who contributed them.
80 Years Ago (1928):  It would seem that all the promises made by the promoters of the National Parks Highway
Association, of which this city is a part, will be carried out this summer and that the Coast to Coast travel will start
as soon as the roads get so they can be relied upon.  The folder issued by the Association shows pictures of
hotels along the way.  The traffic on Hwy. 13 is expected to double in 1928.  There is little doubt but what this
summer will show us a traffic on Highway 13 through Evansville like we have never seen before and it would be well
if our business men and Park Commission be prepared for the rush when it starts, especially in the matter of
having tents or some kind of weather protection at the tourist camp.  [Note:  Highway 13, became Highway 14.]

70 Years Ago (1938):  A crew from the Evansville Construction Company started work here Monday remodeling
the building at 11 South Madison Street, formerly occupied by the Lawrence Hansen harness shop, for the
opening of a new dry cleaning plant to be operated by the Triangle company.  The entire front of the building is
now being removed and will be replaced with a modern store front of plate glass and structural glass trim.  An
attractive lobby to be used as an order and waiting room, is being planned with the cleaning and finishing
departments at the rear.  The Band Box Dry Cleaning system to be installed represents the last word in modern
equipment.  The personnel of the Triangle company includes Marion Jones and Bryce Baird as active partners and
Michael Finnane an inactive partner.  Although no definite date has been set for the opening of the plant, plans
are under way to have everything in operation by the fore part of April.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The members of the Pleasant Prairie Community club will sponsor a miscellaneous shower
for Harold Abey and Miss Mary Louise McDermott in the Grange Hall Tuesday evening, Mar. 30.  Members are
requested to take with them cards and tables.  Mr. Abey and Miss McDermott will be married early in April.

50 Years Ago (1958):  East Side Inn, which has been operated here by Ralph Brzezinski since 1944, went under
new ownership Monday, Mar. 15.  The new owners and operators are Ronnie and Peg Berg, who formerly
operated Ronnie’s bar here.  The building housing the tavern is the old Evansville House hotel building at the
corner of Main and Union Sts.  It was purchased by Brzezinski from Emma Bishop in 1943 for a station for
Brzezinski’s poultry and egg business.  In 1944, he obtained a beer license and converted the front part of the old
hotel into a tavern and restaurant.  Wednesday night, Mar. 26, the former and present owners plan a joint party for
the customers with beer and sandwiches for all, to show their appreciation.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Vote April 2, 1968.  Re-elect Ida T. Conroy, Mayor of the City of Evansville.  A full time
Mayor who is always available to discuss with its citizens the projects or problems of the City and give them careful
consideration.  One who is present at all times to work with the other city officials for the BETTERMENT OF
EVANSVILLE.  Evansville Needs and Deserves a Full Time Mayor.  Re-Elect Ida T. Conroy.  Authorized and paid
for by Ida T. Conroy.

30 Years Ago (1978):   A newcomer to Evansville is Mary Koehl who teaches art to the 5th and 6th grades.  This is
her first year of teaching.  Her husband, Dan Emery, is a self-employed carpenter and cabinet maker and makes
furniture in his home at 252 W. Liberty.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  The Rock Valley Conference Solo Ensemble Music Contest was held at Clinton last
Saturday.  Out of the 30 entries, 29 received Firsts and of these 16 will go to State on May 7.  Those going to
State are Greg Wahl, trumpet; Robbie Peters, piano; Carrie Bradley, piano; Guys Ensemble: Jeff Updike, Greg
Wahl, Jeff Gitchel, Marty Loftus, Mark Walmer and Scott Haakenson; Jake Wittwer, Tenor sax; The Swing Choir:  
Joanne Knuckles, Gretchen Youngman, duet; Rachel Mackie, piano; Tara West, alto; Senior Triple Trip:  Joanna
Knuckles, Becky Dobbs, Jan Bue, Emy Wheeler, Kathy Hazlett, Amy Dammen, Gretchen Youngman, Tracy
Neuenschwander and Kate Grimes; Brass Quartet: Greg Wahl, Tara Bradley, Alex Strassburg, and Scott Straka;
Jeff Updike, tenor; Tara Bradley and Bethany Krake, piano duet; Robbie Peters and Marty Loftus, piano duet;
Barbershop:  Jan Bue, Joanna Knuckles, Gretchen Youngman and Kathy Hazlett; Carrie Bradley, Aimee Krake,
piano duet.  This is the third time that the Barbershop Quartet will be going to State.

10 years ago (1998):  After reading John Grisham’s new book, The Street Lawyer, ten female students in the
Seminar Composition class at the high school decided to donate their time by helping people less fortunate.  On
Wednesday, Feb. 25, they visited the Saint Martin House in Madison.  There the students helped someone move
into a different apartment, and they prepared, served and cleaned up after dinner.  A total of 184 dinners were
served.  The group was chaperoned by Ruth Forstrom and Pat Peters, the teacher of the class.  [Note:  Five class
participants photographed for the article were Amy Woulfe, Allison Schneeberger, Michele Bitter, Jade Weber, and
Crystal Hughes.]

In Review
Fourth Week of March 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  It will be seen in this issue that the firm of Evans, Quivey & Smith, is dissolved by mutual
consent, and a new firm organized under the style of Evans & Smith.  We learn it to be the intention of Dr. Quivey
to try the enervating air of the Pacific coast, for the restoration of his physical health.  He recovers slowly from the
disease which has prostrated him for nearly the whole winter.  [Note:  Drs. John M. Evans, William Quivey, and
Charles M. Smith were partners in a drug store and physicians’ practice at 1 East Main Street.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  Street Commissioner Ballard did a nice job leveling off the hubs the first of the week, but
the heavy rain of Wednesday night and Thursday morning softened the streets up again.  The work will be lighter
next time.  If the pathmasters in some of our out of town districts would go over the roads with some heavy scraping
implement, it would be a vast improvement over the old method—letting them alone.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  The caucus for nominating town officers for the ensuing year was held Saturday at 2:30 p.
m.  Mr. Eager made a motion that citizens of the village do not participate in vote for caucus officers (of the Town
of Union).  The question lost on a show of hands.  Mr. James Montgomery protested against citizens of the village
voting at caucus.  Chairman Gillies stated that he had written to the Attorney General relating to the separation of
the town and village and hoped for a reply by election day.  The caucus proceeded and votes were cast for
chairman and other officers.

110 Years Ago (1898):  The little girl that came to gladden the home of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Scoville, Friday
morning, only remained about 48 hours when its soul took its flight back to its heavenly home.  A short service was
held at the house by Rev. Wm. Rollins and the remains interred in the Evansville cemetery.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Invitations have been issued for the marriage of Miss Ida Ringhand, daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. Daniel Ringhand and Mr. Herman C. Miller, which will take place at the home of the bride’s parents, Brooklyn,
at high noon, on Wednesday, March 25, 1908.
90 Years Ago (1918):  David Allen Watkins was born near Knighton, England, February 27, 1847 and died March
12, 1918, being 71 years and fourteen days of age.  He was the youngest of ten children of David Watkins, all of
whom have long since died.  From England his father brought him, direct as a child, to Green County, Wisconsin,
where he was reared on a farm.  For the last three years, he has made his home with his niece, Mrs. Tirza White,
of Lincoln Street, this city.  The funeral services were conducted today at Mr. Bigelow’s undertaking parlors by
Rev. Ezra P. Whitton and Mrs. Gladdis.  Interment was at the Welsh cemetery.  Mr. Watkins was held in high
esteem by his neighbors, as well as by close relatives.  Mr. W. A. Bourbeau, whom he befriended as a small boy,
caring for him in a fatherly way.
80 Years Ago (1928):  There seems to be little interest shown in the coming Spring elections.  Even the office of
Mayor seems to have no attraction to office seekers, as there are no nomination papers filed for the position
against the hitherto invincible E. H. Libby.  R. L. Collins will succeed himself as City Clerk, while C. J. Smith, our
present City Treasurer will have opposition for reelection, in the person of Ralph E. Smith.  Charles A. Spencer will
succeed himself as City Assessor, as there is no opposition against him.  Since the office of Chief of Police has
been made an elective office by virtue of a petition recently circulated, there will be two candidates for the position,
F. W. Gillman the present incumbent and Cal. C. Broughton, who formerly held the position, in years past.  In the
wards, the candidates are W. M. Bewick for alderman and Phil D. Pearsall for supervisor.  In the 1st ward, the
candidates are for reelection for the two years term as Alderman, H. F. Brunsell and Supervisor, Mr. Harry
Roderick.  In the 3rd ward there are new names in the field, O. C. Jones and Peter Baird will cross bats for the
office of Alderman, while C. M. Smith and J. H. Meier will have a friendly contest for supervisor.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  With a new park project started here Monday and another project approved for the
installation of sanitary sewer and water on Garfield Avenue from Second to North Fourth Streets beginning April
15, Evansville will profit by an extensive WPA program this spring.  The crew installing the water system in Maple
Hill cemetery has been increased to 45 during the past few weeks.  The lack of funds on this job has made it
necessary to transfer 30 men to the park and 15 to Orfordville where other WPA projects are in operation.  The
new park projects are installing drains and two new showers in the bath house and replacing the old concrete floor
with a new one.  Tiling is also being laid along the building to accommodate the waste water and a new disinfecting
foot bath for bathers is being installed.  Other work will include riprapping the creek to curtail erosion and filing in
low areas.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Mrs. Marge Ware, who for some years has raised extra fine White Leghorn chickens,
recently received a certificate from the Wisconsin State Department of Agriculture stating that her flock has been
culled and inspected and her birds qualify as a Wisconsin U. S. certified flock.  The following accompanied the
certificate:  “Flocks such as yours have been the vital link over the years to improve the quality of our Wisconsin
hens, enabling them to so splendidly meet our enormous egg demands.”

50 Years Ago (1958):  Three local boys, Bob Krajeck, Larry Disch and Ronnie Templeton, graduated from the
Short Course of the Agricultural School of the University of Wisconsin Saturday, March 15.  Ninety-one boys
received their diplomas at the exercises.  Larry Disch won a grand championship on one of his sheep at the Little
International show held last week.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  Marine Private Donald D. Zhe, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore L. Zhe, of Route 1, Evansville,
has reported for duty with the First Marine Aircraft Wing at Danang, Vietnam.  The wing provides aviation support
to the First and Third Marine Divisions and other American and Allied forces in the five northernmost provinces of
South Vietnam.

30 Years Ago (1978):   After a long period of waiting, the 52 ton Stella Lynch house rolled down Mill Street last
week on Friday March 24.  It is now set on its new location.  The house had been purchased form the Union bank
and Trust Company by Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Petterson.  Mrs. Petterson is Vice President of the Evansville Historic
Preservation Commission.  They will restore the home to its original character as a one-family dwelling.  The corner
land on Madison and Mill Streets, owned by the Union Bank and Trust Co., will be converted into a drive-up
banking facility.

20 Years Ago (1988):  According to Hans Kleisch, owner of the Service Store on Union Street, a wrecker truck was
stolen sometime after 6:00 p.m. Friday, March 18th. The truck was in the shop and the shop was broken into and
no clues were left.  Kleisch said it was an excellent truck and insured.  The loss was discovered by an employee,
Jerry Gower of Monroe, when he went to move the truck out front.

10 years ago (1998):  J. Peter Shaw, executive director of the Wisconsin High School Forensic Association of
Evansville, appeared as the “Wizard himself” in Madison’s CTM Productions’ presentation of America’s most
beloved musical fantasy, “The Wizard of Oz” playing in the Oscar Mayer Theater at the Madison Civic Center.  

In Review
First Week of April 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Brick Yard.  Workmen are already engaged leveling off the ground and making
preparations for going into the brick business as early as the season will permit.  The yard is located upon lands
owned by Mr. Fish and formerly used for this purpose.  Jacob West and Son, and M. H. Fish, are proprietors and
intend to make it a permanent business.  Note:  The Fish farm, owned by Alfred C. Fish, father of Marcus Fish, was
located north of Evansville.  The Fish home, a brick residence on the east side of North Union Street, is made of
Evansville manufactured brick.  A photo of the house can be found at http://www.evansvillehistory.
net/1898EvansvilleDirectory.html

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Elmer Bullard has sold his “Morrow” farm to Mr. Thorp of Union for $1,500, cash.  He
afterwards bought his father’s farm—Stillman Bullard, Esq.—for $700.  Mr. Bullard expects to spend the most of his
time this summer, visiting.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Our people are tearing down their yard fences more and more every season as they
become old and rotten, thus opening their premises to the common, but as cows and cattle are not permitted on
the streets, there is no uneasiness from midnight intrusion of Old Crumple.  It looks more congenial and social than
when each neighbor is separated by a high palisade.  The trees that were thought pretty and nice when small,
have grown to stately pines and maples and their large branches almost entwining over the roofs of some
dwellings completely shutting out the warm sunlight of spring; many of these are being removed and we must say
improves the appearance of our fine residences.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Free Public Library.  Rooms in Adams Block south of Pioneer Drug Store.  Open from four
o’clock till seven every afternoon except Sunday.  Mrs. L. A. Wilder, Librarian.  [Note:  The Adams Block was
divided and moved to make way for the Thompson Ford Garage 16 South Madison Street. Half of the Adams Block
is now on Maple Street, south of the Care Closet.]

100 Years Ago (1908):  M. L. Ewing, M. D., Homeopathic Physician and Surgeon.  Adam’s Block, opposite the M.
E. Church.  Office hours:  1 to 5 p.m. and nights.  Country calls promptly attended.  Phone 57-3.  [Note: Mary L.
Ewing was the first woman to practice medicine in Evansville.]
90 Years Ago (1918):  I. S. Brink recently sold his farm north of Evansville to Glen and Roy Peach, of Edgerton,
the consideration being $23,000.  The place having been rented for this year, the new owners will not take
possession until next year.
80 Years Ago (1928):  City Council Minutes of April 3, 1928:  Motion passed that the recommendation of the Water
and Light Commission under date of April 2nd, regarding extension of Rural Electric Service to Messers. W. J.
Ahara, C. B. Devine, A. O. Furseth, B. Wilhelm, Chas. Gibson, F. Croak, E. E. Fraser, and others be ratified and
that the Mayor and City Clerk be and are hereby instructed to sign such contracts as named in the above
recommendation, and as per instruction received from the Railroad Commission.  [Note:  These farms were located
in the southeast corner of Union township and the northeast corner of Magnolia township.]

70 Years Ago (1938):  Coach George O’Neil’s championship high school hoopsters, who completed their season
with top ranking standings in the Rock River Valley league, the Stoughton Class B tournament, and the Monroe
regional meet, and who are now vying for honors at the state finals in Madison, will play Cumberland at 3 p.m.
today in the University of Wisconsin field house for the consolation championship of the class B division.  The local
preps were eliminated from the championship flight in their opening game Tuesday night with Shawano.  
Evansville, however, advanced to the consolation final Wednesday morning by taking an overtime game 24 to 23
from Fort Atkinson in which tilt a free toss by Don Rosen in the extra minutes gave the Blues the one point margin.  
Although Evansville trailed throughout the Fort Atkinson battle, a field goal by [Jack] McKenna tied the score in the
last minutes of play and the overtime toss by Rosen assured the victory.  Don Rosen led the scoring with ten
points and co-captains Bernie Golz and Ted Thompson, stood out for Evansville.  The defeat was the first in 20
games this season for the O’Neil men.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Two Evansville men are seeking to be chosen mayor by Evansville citizens at the annual
spring election to be held in the city hall next Tuesday.  They are Ben T. Green, present mayor and A. M. Winn,
who served as the city’s head officer several years ago.  There is also a contest in the first ward where Raymond
Knapp, the present alderman is being opposed by W. E. Brown.  E. J. Gibbs, is the only candidate in the second
ward, and Leonard R. Finn, present incumbent in the third ward is unopposed for re-election.  Other incumbents
this year are B. R. Ellis, city clerk; Miss Dorothy Richmond, treasurer; Phil T. Smith, assessor and Earle Hart,
justice of the peace.

50 Years Ago (1958):  In the spring election here Tuesday, Evansville voters named Elizabeth Gray, Kenneth A.
Ellis and John Wilde to the school board and re-elected Mayor Bruce Townsend and current aldermen, and voted
to instruct the council to pass an ordinance making it unlawful to let dogs run at large.  Mrs. Gray, running for re-
election, led the field of seven candidates for the three school board posts to be filled.  Council Finance Chairman,
Walter Spratler, Jr., won comfortably over former Water and Light Dept. Head Huey Lee in the race for the first
ward alderman.  In the second ward, Alderman Norman Bone, running unopposed got 151 votes and in the third
ward, Alderman Leonard Finn, unopposed got 94.  The referendum on tying up dogs at all times of the year
passed by a 400 to 133 margin.  The referendum instructs the council to pass an ordinance making it mandatory
that all dogs be either confined, or on a suitable leash, at all times.

40 Years Ago (1968):  A huge turnout of 1,117 voters filled the ballot boxes in Evansville Tuesday.  In the mayoral
contest Mayor Ida T. Conroy edged out Wilson L. Brown by 607 to 507 votes.  The referendum on widening East
Main Street brought out a resounding ‘no’ votes as the final tally showed 315 ‘yes’ and 780 ‘no’.  Richard Eager
won over Albert Winn for the County Supervisor post; for aldermen; Merlin Reese, first ward; Keith Williams,
second ward; Francis Erbs, third ward; and Paul P. Pullen for municipal justice.

30 Years Ago (1978):   The Evansville Middle School students will be having a fund drive starting April 14 to raise
money for a memorial to J. C. McKenna.  McKenna, for whom the school is named, was a superintendent for the
Evansville school system for many years.  Sales of candy bars will continue for 11 days as the students attempt to
raise $800 for the proposed project.  Featured on the plaque will be a relief portrait of Mr. McKenna done by
Richard Krake of the High School art department along with help from the Baker Manufacturing Company.

20 Years Ago (1988):  A few long time residents of Evansville gathered recently at the railroad depot and
reminisced and exchanged stories about the good old days, when Evansville was a hub of activity.  Memories were
rekindled as they viewed what remains of the depot today.  Much is missing, but these citizens were able to tell
exactly where things used to be.  Roger Berg, realtor, has purchased the depot, planning to restore it to a useful
function.  Thus, interest in the history of the station has been revived and thanks to the memory of these
gentlemen, history will live on.  Participants were Ray Knapp, Leonard P. Eager, Sr., Burton Janes, John
Montgomery and Roy Sarow.

10 years ago (1998):  Senior Officer Art Phillips, a lifelong Evansville resident, was appointed by Chief Scott
McElroy and approved by the Public Safety Committee last Thursday to become Lieutenant of the Evansville Police
Department.  The new position had been authorized by the Common Council two weeks ago.  Phillips got the nod
of an advisory committee of three and Chief Scott McElroy for the promotion.

In Review
Second Week of April 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Messers Reuben Johnson and Samuel Norton left town yesterday morning for Montana, on
a pleasure and prospecting tour.  Their success will somewhat govern their stay, but they design to make a tour of
inspection during the summer months.  Mr. Frank Johnson and party leave this morning with teams for Cheyenne
and the Black Hills.  They have prospecting in view.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Jas. [James] Powles has been constituted chief engineer of the fire department with
power to appoint a competent assistant.  Mr. Powles is an old hand at the breaks and knows a fire engine when he
sees one.  We think our fire engine could be made to do good service if the boys would quit ridiculing the thing.  
The engine was dragged to the Kohlar fire last week and stationed at the cistern in the rear of the house, but it
was discovered that there were neither coupling wrench nor hose nozzle to be found.  While these articles were
being hunted up the fire had gained considerable headway, although water was being carried to the roof as well as
possible through an open mouth hose.  The engine did good work while it was in condition to do so, and it
appeared evident that with proper management it might be made very serviceable in a great many cases.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Caleb Snashall, who has charge of running the tack factory this season, says they are
about ready to commence operation.  The smoke stack that was blown down a short time ago is to be replaced
with a new one, which is being made in F. A. Baker & Co.’s tin shop.  The old pipe was so rusted and gas eaten
that it would not sustain its weight.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Mr. Homer Potter, who has been 31 years connected with the primary class in the M. E.
Sunday school will give its history.  He now has many of the grandchildren of his first pupils.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Hon. and Mrs. A. S. Baker expect to spend the summer sight-seeing in the old world.  They
will leave in time to attend the international convention of Congregational societies which will be held in the early
part of June.  Mr. Baker has been selected as a delegate.
90 Years Ago (1918):  There has been erected on the W. H. Hubbard lot in Maple Hill cemetery a fine monument
by Schlimgen’s of Madison.  The monument was designed by Miss Mina Hubbard.  It is of Barre granite, axed.  The
design is that of a circular arch supported on round pillars, the center of the opening being filled by a carved flower
urn of the granite, which in summer will contain growing flowers and in winter is designed to contain a little fir tree.
80 Years Ago (1928):  Amza Sheldon Lewis, aged 77 died at his home in Monticello, Monday.  Mr. Lewis was born
in Jug Prairie, south of Brooklyn.  His first marriage was to Miss Mary Magee, she departing this life thirty-two years
ago.  Later he married Miss Fannie Disch, of New Glarus, who survives him, together with one son and three
grandchildren.  The funeral will be held this afternoon, the body laid in the Exeter Cemetery, where the Masonic
burial services will be read by A. H. Devine of this city.  The deceased was related by marriage to the Devine and
Magee families of this city.

70 Years Ago (1938):  In preparation for Evansville’s approaching golf season, the directors of the Country Club
held their annual meeting in the City Hall here last Thursday afternoon to elect officers and lay plans for the
ensuing year.  Dr. J. W. Ames was reelected president; L. P. Eager, vice president; Ed Butts, secretary and
treasurer; and Lloyd Heffel, overseer of the course.  It was decided at the meeting that the club members
themselves would manage the course this year with the assistance of Richard Eager and Jack McKenna who,
following the close of  school, have been engaged to keep the course in shape for play.  The fees will remain the
same as in former years, 25 cents per round; 50 cents for all day play; and $15 for the season.  Club members
stayed a clean-up bee on the links Sunday and burned the entire course.  They started top dressing the greens
Monday and later will fertilize them to insure a good growth this year.  Directors of the Country Club are Dr. J. W.
Ames, Phil Wackman, Leonard P. Eager, William Benson, Arthur Devine, A. C. Holmes, William Fleming, Lewis
Claffin, and Lloyd Heffel.  [Note:  this Evansville Golf Course was located at the corner of Hwy C and Brooklyn-
Evansville Road, west of Evansville.]

60 Years Ago (1948):  The 1948 Flaming Arrow is well underway and will be in the hands of anyone desiring a
copy after May 20.  The cost of the annual this year is $2, the increase in price being necessary because of the
change from a paper cover to the more durable cloth cover.  The senior and junior classes put out an annual
every other year.  Editorial staff:  Sue Cain, editor; Pat Hensel, Ass’t Editor; Jo Ann Green, Carol Clark, Marion
Benton, Neil Moldenhauer, Ione Curless, Joan Hanson, James Finnane, Ellen Rasmussen, Alice Coyne, Roger Sell,
Delores Dixon, Marcia Patterson, Donna Ebenhardt, Ruth Krause, Viola Steindl, Delores Reese, Betty Elmer, Betty
Giles, Shirley Roberts, Violet Klassey, Bob Apfel, Dawn Kloften, Florence Oswald, staff.  Betty Lehnherr, Business
Manager; Jerry Easton, Ass’t Business Manager,; Marcia Patterson, Kathleen Miller, Jean Kelm, Roger Wood,
Delmar Lunde, Ken Devlin, business staff.  Photography: Bethana Gundlach, Arlene Miller, Anne Giese, Margaret
Benn, Shirley Elmer, Betty Birkeland, Roland Straka, Donald Sands, Faye Osmond, Bob Apfel.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Arnold Willis this week purchased the drug store operated here by the late William Brown.  
For the past several years Willis has been with the Rennebohm drug store chain in Madison and prior to that time
was a druggist here with the late Ed Krebs.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The warm weather brought many an industrious person outdoors last weekend for raking
and burning leaves and rubbish.  The March winds that accompanied the weather turned many a bonfire into an
operation for the fire department.  Friday afternoon of last week, a grass fire got out of control south of the high
school campus on the Merlin Francis farm and burned over considerable land.  Saturday morning, the Evansville
Fire Co. was called to the Donald Zimmer farm five miles west of Evansville to work with the Brooklyn company to
extinguish a fire burning over several acres of pasture land and some corn fields.  It is presumed that the blaze
was started by a discarded cigarette.  At 5:50 p.m. Sunday, the local company was called to the Kenneth Devlin
home at 144 W. Liberty Street to put out a fire in the garage where a pickup truck was burning.

30 Years Ago (1978):   Coming up in the City Council meeting next Tuesday night is the approval of a policeman to
replace Alan Christensen, who resigned to accept the chief position at Brodhead.  Mayor Robert M. Olsen is
recommending the appointment of Tom Brennan.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  Brian Fick is the new owner of Anderson TV and Appliance, located on South Madison
Street.  He took over on Monday of last week.  He comes to Evansville with a lot of experience, having been service
manager at Clydes in Madison for nine years.  Fick is an Evansville native and graduate of the Evansville High
School.  The business will now be known as Appliance Works, offering new appliances and repair on all makes,
regardless of where the appliance was purchased.  Fick plans to restock and expand the lines and is looking
forward to a Grand Opening.  Cal Anderson has served the Evansville community for 28 years and will be semi-
retiring.  He will continue to do repair work on TV’s and Fick will do repair on appliances.  Anderson looks forward
to enjoying his race horses and even racing them more than he has recently.  

10 years ago (1998):  Mr. and Mrs. Harold Abey, Sr., of Brooklyn, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary
April 3 with a private family dinner.  Harold and Mary McDermott were married on that date in 1948 at St. Paul’s
Catholic Church in Evansville.  They have four children, Harold, Jr. John, Mindy, and Maureen.  The couple has 15
grandchildren.



In Review
Third Week of April 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Porter.  The election in Porter resulted quite to the satisfaction of the No-License party.  
Supervisors: Alex White, chairman; Wm. Porter, E. D. Barnard; Town Clerk:  J. G. Robertson; Assessor: Joseph B.
Miller; Treasurer:  Tracy Montgomery; Justices: Elijah Tolles, O. W. Gilman; Constables: H. S. Van Patten, A. B.
Fessenden.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The Village Board proceeded to elect a street commissioner by ballot.  J. M. Ballard
received three votes, W. F. Williams one and H. W. Hubbard one.  J. M. Ballard was declared duly elected.  The
compensation of the street commissioner was fixed at 17 ½ cents per hour.  It is hereby made the duty of the street
commissioner to strictly enforce the ordinance restraining domestic animals running at large.  Ordinance to prohibit
domestic animals from running at large in the village of Evansville:  It is unlawful for the owner or owners, keeper or
keepers of any horses, mules, cattle, sheep or swine to allow or permit any such animals to run at large in any of
the highways, streets, alleys, or public ground within the corporate limits of said village.

120 Years Ago (1888):  J. Hopkins & Sons’ have made their first importation of English shire horses, arriving week
before last.  The shipment consisted of six stallions, one of which died coming from Chicago and had to be left by
the side of the road.  They counted their loss on this one $1,800, otherwise they made a profitable purchase.  
They bought in the London horse market.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Evansville has long enjoyed the reputation of being a literary town.  One of its most unique
organizations for educational work is the Fortnightly Club. Most of its members are graduates from the Evansville
High School and doubtless acquired in that institution, the desire for further study which led them into the club.  
The organization owes its beginning to Miss Ethel Frost who first originated the idea of a Young People’s Literary
Society.  The first meeting was held at her home on the 21 of Sept. 1897.  The election of officers resulted in the
following:  Harry Johnson, President; Ethel Frost, Vice President; Grace Colton, Secretary and Treasurer.  Rev.
Short kindly consented to conduct two meetings on the study of Tennyson.  It was decided to give up the carefully
planned program and continue the study of Tennyson for the remainder of the year.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The public library has been closed and will remain so until further notice, because of the
removal of the books, etc., to the new building on Main Street.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Asmus & Davis this week sold a 12-20 tractor and a three-bottom power lift plow to John
Wall, of Union,  The tractor was a Titan, made by the International people and is guaranteed to do its work at much
less cost than horses and will do a lot of work in running saws, silo fillers, etc., which horses cannot do.

80 Years Ago (1928):  On account of the office of Chief of Police being an appointive office and never figuring in
the city election returns, in past years, The Review in compiling the city election returns last week failed to give the
vote in the city of Chief of Police.  The contestants at the polls were Cal. Broughton and F. W. Gillman, Mr.
Broughton polling 274 votes and Mr. Gillman 215.  When a person does a thing one way for many years it is hard
to think to do it another way, so that is why the editor forgot what had always been an appointive office had been
changed to an elective one.

70 Years Ago (1938):  John S. Baker, 68, President of the Baker Manufacturing Company here and one of the city’
s most prominent civic leaders, died suddenly at 9:30 this morning in his home at 111 West Main Street.  Although
he has been failing in health, his condition had not been considered serious.  Mr. Baker, only son of Mr. and Mrs.
A. S. Baker, was born in Evansville July 17, 1869 and had always made his home in the city.  He was graduated
from the Evansville High School in 1886 and in the fall of that year entered the University of Wisconsin, Madison,
where he had planned to study electrical engineering, but due to the fact that no such course was offered at that
time, took up mechanical engineering.  He left the university in the fall of 1888 on account of serious eye trouble
which originated from a dog bite in the face several years previous.  Mr. Baker gave up his university work
engaging in electrical wiring and repair work in the city light department here until 1890 when he began his
constructive work with the Baker Manufacturing Company.  His summer vacations, since he was 12 years of age,
had been spent in shop work of various kinds.  Mr. Baker must be given credit for the formation and operation of
the plan of profit-sharing among employees, and to his father for enabling him to try it out in the company.          

60 Years Ago (1948):  The junior class of the Evansville high school has named Byrl Rowley prom king and he has
chosen Alice Coyne to reign as his queen at the promenade to be held in the school gymnasium Saturday
evening, May 1.  The king and queen will be crowned as they climb “The stairway to the stars,” which will be the
theme of the party.  G. G. Billington will provide music for the guests to dance until the stars grow dim.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Paul Brown and Neil Libby both received “A” ratings and Karren Algrim a “B” rating at the
state forensic meeting held Saturday, April 12, in Madison at the University of Wisconsin.  Forty-five young people
from southern Wisconsin high schools took home class “A” ratings and gold medals after competing in the annual
state speech contest.  Each student participating in the state meet had qualified through league and district
preliminary competition.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  Officials of Varco-Pruden, Inc. have announced plans to increase production facilities and
to bring a rail spur into the Evansville plant.  The new 30,000 sq. ft. building addition is required to handle the
increased manufacturing operations slated for Evansville.  The new plant will include a 60’ x 105’ addition to an
existing raw materials storage facility plus an 80’ x 240’ manufacturing structure.  Work on the rail spur started last
week and will include re-channeling Allen Creek under a new railroad bridge which is now under construction at the
Varco-Pruden plant site.  

30 Years Ago (1978):   Lyle Viney of Evansville has recently been elected President of the Mid-States Region of
Associated Milk Producers, Inc.  He and his wife attended a three-day AMPI annual meeting held in Minneapolis.  
Viney is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and was a high school vocational agriculture teacher in
Campbellsport before entering the Navy.  Mr. Viney began on the family farm in 1946 when he returned home from
the Navy.  He went to work on a farm that had belonged to his great-grandfather.  It has now become Viney Farms,
Inc., with his two sons, David and Jim who are both graduates of the University of Wisconsin in Dairy Science.

20 Years Ago (1988):  The Evansville School Board will meet next Monday evening for the purpose of seating
elected board members.  Election results were as follows:  Donna Haakenson received 1,276 votes; Ken Fenrick
received 1,214 votes; and Dennis Hughes received 1,193 votes.  Haakenson and Fenrick will be seated for the
three year terms and Hughes for the one year term.  

10 years ago (1998):  The Eager Free Public Library is celebrating National Library Week April 19-25.  The Eager
Free Public Library connects the community with books, magazines, films about other times and cultures, foreign
language tapes, internet access, and much more. Eager Free Public Library provides citizens an Internet home
page http://als.lib.wi.us/EFPL   Circulation of books is higher than ever in the age of computerization.  Whether it’s
researching your family’s “roots”, exploring new markets for products, or planning a trip abroad, the library can
help.  

In Review
Fourth Week of April 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Levi Leonard has a gang of workmen both upon the wood and stone work of his
house, and is hurrying it along with good speed.  [Note:  the Levi Leonard house is on the northeast
corner of West Main and Second Street, 138 West Main Street.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  Officers of “The Deluge” Fire Company:  James Powles, Foreman; Thomas Wallis,
1st  Assistant; Ray Gillman, 2nd Assistant; John Phifer, Secretary; C. M. Smith, Treasurer; Stewards,
Charles S. Wilder, John Frantz, Charles H. Powles.  A hose company was organized and proceeded to
the election of the following officers:  John Frantz, Foreman; William Quivey, Assistant; John Frantz,
Secretary; Wilbur T. Hoxie, Treasurer; Charles H. Powles and Frank N. Shurger were elected pipemen.  
The regular meetings of the company were established on the 1st Wednesday evening of each month.  
Special meetings held on call of the Foreman.

120 Years Ago (1888):  A few have started up the plow, but generally the ground is too wet and cold to
do much.  Occasionally a villager has plowed his garden but we think he is too previous by a month.  
Peas, a few potatoes, onions and the like, may get an early start, but the cold nights will set them back
about all they gain in the day time.  Cleaning up yards and starting up the evening smudges has been
in order several days.  Alternate freezing nights and thawing days is discouraging for an early spring.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Robinson Barrett, an old soldier and well known citizen of this place and
Magnolia was found dead in his bed in Milwaukee, Thursday morning, where he was visiting friends.  
He has been an inmate of the Soldiers home near Milwaukee for some time.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Yesterday was a very pleasant day for the opening of the new library building
for the use of the public.  The building was the gift of the late Almeron Eager, who in his will made
provision for a building suitable for the needs of the residents of Evansville for years to come and in
which our people will find much to improve their minds.  While the library is not as extensive as many
would wish, there are upwards of four thousand volumes and capacity for double that amount is
provided for.  To note its beauty in all details it must be seen, pencil cannot fully describe it.  During
the past week, the librarian, Mrs. W. T. Boyd, has had much to do in rearranging the books and to
properly classify them, and while yet it is somewhat uncertain where particular books may be found, a
few days’ work will entangle all errors and the library will be in full working order.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Last Friday, Chief Fred Gillman received notice that one Gus Goldbeck was
wanted at Stoughton for burglary.  He had walked across from there to Evansville, hoping to throw the
officers off his trail.  However, Mr. Gillman succeeded in locating him here and placed him under arrest
and held him until Officer Hanson came from Stoughton and took him back to the scene of his exploit.

80 Years Ago (1928): The average Wisconsin farm wage on April 1, 1928 by the month with board was
$46.75, without board, $64.; by the day with board $2.25 and without board $2.95, which is practically the
same as a year ago.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Work was started Monday by 16 men on the WPA project at Maple Hill cemetery.  
The men are installing water mains and a complete water system for the cemetery.  Leota park is also
being touched up by 20 WPA men.  At present they are rip-rapping the creek, and will build flag stone
walks to complete the beauty of the park.  Another part of this project is to build footings at the bottom
of the stone wall.  The men will construct a fountain at the park and also a small pool.  City Engineer,
Heebink of Beloit, is working on plans to submit for another WPA project to build a shelter house at the
park.  This will be constructed upon acceptance after the present work is completed.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Batting practice received the most attention at the spring outing of the local Home Talent
baseball team.  Several new hopefuls appeared and a good spirit prevailed.  Coach Mel Erickson, the manager,
took charge and was quite enthusiastic about the outlook for a scrappy team this season.  The new talent aspiring
to positions on the team were Robert Elmer, Alvin Sorensen, Lloyd Broughton, Andrew Hollibush, Bruce Hazlett,
Ted Thompson, Don Bieley, Bud Hallmark and Eugene Hartl.  The former members who turned out were  Bob
Olsen, Snuffy Smith, Breezy Sullivan, Roger McCaffrey, Stan “Pops” Sperry, La Verne Elmer, Glen “Dick” Elmer,
Wally Olsen, Mel Erickson, Mel Allen.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Funeral services were held for Adelbert Jones, 76, who died Wednesday at his home on S.
Fourth St.  Mr. Jones was a mail carrier for 39 years, 16 on rural routes and 23 in the city.  He drove horses on his
first route of 27 miles in the country.  He retired in 1943.   Surviving are a wife; six sons, Boyd of Rockland, Austin
of Belleville, Chester of Janesville, Ira of Detroit, Paul of Spokane, Washington and Worden, of Stoughton; three
daughters, Mrs. Vera Bowen of Brooklyn, Miss Blanche Jones of Janesville, and Mrs. Vivian Petropol of Apopka,
Florida.; 19 grandchildren; and a sister, Mrs. Rachel Jones of Orfordville.  Two sisters and a brother preceded him
in death.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  E. Lunning, Regional Director and Attorney E. Phil Vondrak, Sioux City, Iowa, were present
at the organization meeting for the Continental Manor of Evansville, Inc. held last week Thursday night.  There
were also 40 Evansville citizens present for the business meeting at which seven directors, four for two-year  and
three for one-year terms, were elected as follows:  Mrs. Ida T. Conroy, Leonard R. Finn, Dr. S. S. Sorkin, Dr. R. G.
Heimerl, Mrs. Arnold Willis, Don Capron and William Bewick.  The president, Dr. S. S. Sorkin appointed a building
site committee comprised of Mrs. Conroy, Mr. Finn and Mr. Capron.  

30 Years Ago (1978):   High School students who participated in the District Forensic Contest in Whitewater are
Judi Hilbelink, Nancy Payne, Carol Garbrecht, Carolyn Jordon, Jeanne Olson, Pam Holzem, Denise Rasmussen,
Betsy McCaffrey and Sonja Hagen.  Ted Moskonas is the forensics director.

20 Years Ago (1988):  The Antique Mall of Evansville will open Sunday May 1, at 13 W. Main Street.  Fifteen
antique dealers from neighboring areas will be moving into the mall this week for the May 1 opening, according to
Janeace Brunsvold, manager of the mall.  Seven civic minded citizens of Evansville have banded together in this
partnership to give this Antique Mall a boost.  At the present time they wish to remain anonymous.  Their goal is to
help promote Evansville, particularly the downtown area.  The Mall is divided into 100 square foot sections and
some dealers have leased two spaces.  

10 years ago (1998):  The 1998 Confirmation Class from St. Paul’s Catholic Church included Joe Lauer, Jonathan
Emery, Kari Malterer, Clayton Whitmore, Beth Schneider, Jamie Jakes and John Jakes, Matt Emery, Amy Woulfe,
Libby Amato, Jessi Jakes, Amy Dorn, Heather Dorn, Keli Van Galder, Jenni Jones, Jeremy Loesch, Adam Bradley,
Pam Lauer, Alisha Trawicki, Jodi Reed, Andy Gorman, Andy Buttchen, Eric Poffenberger, Brian Cufaude, Aaron
Haas, Mike Thornton, Corey Cook, Brian Breezer, Aaron Wallisch, Kevin Schneider, Anne Williams,  Julie
Hermanson was the coordinator.  

In Review
Last Week of April 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Smith & Evans are just placing in their store one of Mathews celebrated Syrup
and Soda Water apparatuses.  Its cost is something like five hundred dollars and when complete is one
of the most elaborate and highly finished apparatus to be found in the fashionable ice cream saloons
of New York or Chicago.  The exterior is of polished marble, sustained by massive internal corner
braces of solid bronze.  The mountings and fittings of the apparatus are of real bronze, heavily plated
with pure silver and of such massive and elegant design as to make it the most elegant apparatus the
fancy to imagine.  [The Doctor’s Smith & Evans drug store was at 1 East Main Street.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  Cash paid for butter.  Bring along your choice dairy butter and receive the cash.  
Have the coloring uniform by using my golden cream coloring, making the butter bring from two to
three cents a pound more in market.  Perry C. Wilder.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Born, Monday April 30, 1888 to Mr. and Mrs. Ross Merrill, a handsome girl of
which they feel very proud and well they may.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  War has been declared between the United States and the kingdom of Spain and
the president of the United States has called for 125,000 volunteers.  The time for discussing the
causes which led up to the war has passed.  The duty of the hour is a prompt response to the call of
the President.  A military company has been organized with the following officers:  Capt. A. Fessenden;
1st Lieut., Frank Wood; 2nd Lieut., E. C. Jones; 1st Sargeant, F. Gillman; Surgeon, Dr. F. E. Colony;
Chaplain, Rev. Wm. Rollins.  Rev. Wm. Rollins delivered a very eloquent sermon upon the war, Sunday
evening.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Albert Dixon resigned his position in the D. E. Wood Butter Company, the same
taking effect last Saturday.  For sixteen years, Mr. Dixon has been an employee of this firm in the
capacity of butter maker, and he now feels that it is about time to start in business for himself.  He and
a brother-in-law are largely interested in Texas realty and possibly may conclude to locate in that
state.  He left with his family Tuesday morning, for Amarillo, Tex.  

90 Years Ago (1918):  Miss Jeanette Pauline Huset and Burton H. Wall were united in marriage Tuesday
afternoon at Madison.  Miss Jeannette is a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. P. A. Huset and one of Evansville’
s sweet and popular young ladies.  She has grown to womanhood in this city, and has been one of the
D. E. Wood Butter Co. employees for three years.  The bride wore a gown of white satin.  Mr. Wall is a
prosperous young farmer, a son of Mr. and Mrs. John Wall, of Union.  He is well liked by all who know
him.  They will make their new home on a farm three and one-half miles north of Evansville.  
Congratulations are extended.

80 Years Ago (1928): The Ware Dairy announce that they are now installing a Frigidaire cooling system
for their dairy which will insure their patrons cool milk and reduce the likelihood of milk souring.  This
new cooling room will be lined with three inches of cork and will be kept at a temperature close to
freezing.  This cooling system is made by the General Motors Co. and will be something unusual for a
small town dairy.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Arthur Devine, former Evansville barber, sustained painful injuries to his left
shoulder at 4 p.m. Friday when he was thrown from a plow on the George Hall farm, a mile north of the
city.  Mr. Devine was assisting Alfred Koehler in planting spring crops at the time the accident
occurred and when the plow on which he was riding struck a stone, he was thrown a distance of
several feet landing on his left shoulder.

60 Years Ago (1948):  A demonstration of Evansville’s new resuscitator will be given after the business
session of the Waucoma Grange in the Grange Hall next Tuesday evening, by Leslie Giles and R. H.
Gallman, who have been taught and are now qualified to operate the life saving machine.  It is hoped
that a large crowd will be present to witness the demonstration.  Musical selections will supplement
the talks by Mr. Giles and Mr. Gallman and refreshments will be served by Mr. and Mrs. Wade
Woodworth, Mr. and Mrs. Hollister Raymond, Mr. and Mrs. D. G. Whitmore, Irvin Rasmussen and Ed
Gransee.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The 1958 Junior Prom Court includes class officers Chuck Peterson, class
president; Barry May, vice president; Bob Carlson, treasurer; Ruthellen Spersrud, secretary, Karen
Bennett, Linda Grundahl, Mary Lynn Estes and John Quam.  The annual event will be held Friday May 9
in the high school.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Diane Mary Fisher, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert K. Fisher, Eastman, Wis.,
became the bride of Rolland William Propst, son of Mr. and Mrs. Willard Propst, 337 Cherry St.,
Evansville at 11 a.m. Saturday in the Evangelical United Brethren Church by the Rev. James Barnes.   
The bride is a hair dresser at the First Central Beauty Salon in Northgate Shopping Center, Madison
and the groom is employed as a carpenter by Roger Thompson, Evansville.  The couple will live at 109
S. Madison Street, Evansville.

30 Years Ago (1978):   Thirty-five to forty people participated in the Allen’s Creek clean-up last Saturday
and cleaned up debris from Pruden’s to Leota Park.  The appearance of the creek was improved
immensely.  The project started in the early morning as members from Trout Unlimited came to help in
the activities.  Dan Hazlett from the city made all the necessary arrangements for city truck and other
details.  Other members from city clubs and citizens showed up as the morning progressed and the
whole creek was cleaned up by 1:30 in the afternoon.  Six truckloads full of garbage and debris was
hauled away and three pickup trucks full were also deposited by the city garage to be disposed of.  
One of the projects of the future will be cleaning up the brush and dead growth along the banks to
make the creek look that much better.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Net sales for the first quarter at Baker Manufacturing increased over the prior
year.  Net earnings also increased for the same period says R. D. Perkins.  The 25 percent sales
increase reflects substantial sales improvement of Monitor water well equipment, custom castings,
instrument equipment and an ongoing moderate improvement of Haight pump sales.  There was a
modest sales increase of wholesale materials.  However oil pump jack sales remain depressed.  
According to Frank Sandner, Jr., even though housing starts have declined moderately Monitor water
well equipment sales have improved substantially because of continued expansion of the product line
and greater market penetration.  Custom casting sales have increased dramatically as the industrial
and agricultural equipment manufacturer’s sales have improved.  

10 years ago (1998):  Kim Vele, chairman of the Evansville Historic Commission, is one excited person
these days, when talking about the old Baker office building that has stood unused for many a year on
East Church Street.  Local developers, Robbie Petterson and Roger Berg have agreed to sell the
building to the Grove Society for $1, allowing them to relocate the building to a suitable place,
hopefully the park entrance and hopefully this summer.  It will take money to move it and renovate it.  
They are doing the formalized proposal for the Jeffris Foundation this week and looking for other fund
sources.  This building was probably a very handsome office at one time and with some loving work
and ample funding it can once again be something to marvel.

In Review
First Week of May 1878-1998
Researched by Ruth Ann Montgomery

140 Years Ago (1868):  Church for Sale.  The Welsh Society at Union Village having no further use for
their Meeting House, offer it for sale at very reasonable terms.  The building is strong and substantial,
and can be moved without any inconvenience or material injury.  For terms, particulars, &c., apply to
John Williams, Union or E. A. Thomas at Cooksville.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The Cooksville Cheese Factory opened Monday morning with 3,300 lbs of milk.  
The proprietor is about putting in another vat.  Not long ago Johnson & Stevens Brothers imported
several car loads of cows, and sold them among our farmers and dairymen, and brought a
remunerative price, and met with a ready sale, because the supply of milch cows was reduced beyond
the demand.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Born.  Monday April 30, 1888, to Mr. and Mrs. Ross Merrill, a handsome girl of
which they feel very proud, and well they may.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Janesville people will be glad to remember that the wife of Acting Admiral
Dewey, the hero of Manila, is a former Janesville girl, well-known here many years ago as Miss Anna
Sheaf.  Great men often owe much to their wives and Janesville will be proud to place Mrs. Dewey on
her list of noble women. – Janesville Republican.  Evansville people will also remember Miss Anna
Sheaf as the sister of M. W. Sheaf, a former clothing merchant of this city.

100 Years Ago (1908): There may still be a financial stringency, but if so, the Baker Manufacturing Co.,
of Evansville, is not feeling it very much if we may judge from present indications.  The company last
week returned to a full time schedule with a full complement of hands, and as we understand it, most
of them are receiving a little better wages than heretofore.  That speaks well for the management and
is a good thing for the town.  We wish there were a dozen more concerns in town like the Baker Mfg.
Co.

90 Years Ago (1918):  On Friday afternoon, May 3, in the city of Rockford, occurred the marriage of
Burchard M. McCoy, of the town of Magnolia, and Miss Ruth H. Milligan, of this city.  Miss Milligan is the
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Milligan.  She has made Evansville her home the greater share of her
life, and is a graduate of the Evansville High School and of the Rock County Training School, at
Janesville, and is now teaching at the Butts Corners School.  Mr. McCoy is the youngest son of Mr. and
Mrs. G. L. McCoy, and is a prosperous young farmer.  The many friends of this young couple wish for
them happiness and prosperity.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Evansville was first placed on the map as a show town, by that veteran showman,
Col. George W. Hall, when he came here from his farm in Magnolia, where he had kept his stock, forty-
seven years ago, when a young man.  Mr. Hall at that time had only a small animal show, with which he
followed the big shows.  The man afterwards made his name famous as a great showman, being the
first showman with nerve enough to take a show to Mexico, here he met with rough handling, but, as
he always did, the show business, carried his show through successfully.  The lure of the saw dust had
gotten into his son George and for many years, he too, has, from year to year dabbled in the show
business, training his sons, Russell and Frank in the same line, which they have been building up
slowly year after year.  H. A. Bruce, who was for several years a trap drummer in the Gollmar Bros.
Shows band and who married the daughter of George Hall, Junior, also started his show out of this city
Wednesday morning.  Walter Gollmar and William Campbell, who married the daughters of Col. George
W. Hall, for many years have also been in the show business.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  After several weeks of secrecy, Prom King Ted Greenway has divulged the
information that he has chosen Miss Shirley Estes, to be queen of the 1938 junior promenade to be
held here Friday evening in the high school gymnasium.  Prominent in school activities, Miss Estes, a
junior, is president of the High School Commercial Club, and an active member of the Girls’ Athletic
Association and the Senior Girls’ Glee Club.  Mr. Greenway, president of the junior class, is a
prominent and outstanding member of the varsity basketball squad and the Senior Hi-Y.  He is a son of
Mr. and Mrs. George Greenway, 138 West Church Street.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The casketed remains of Seaman First Class Edwin A. Hatlen, a World War II
deceased member of the Navy being returned from overseas for final burial, will arrive in Evansville
within the next month accompanied by a uniformed U. S. Navy Escort from the Chicago Distribution
Center of the American Graves Registration Division.  The body of Seaman First Class Hatlen was
interred in the Barrakpore temporary military cemetery in India, but has been returned to this country
for final interment at the request of his next of kin.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Beverly Dennison, 12-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Dennison, Emery
Road, was winner of the Rock County rural spelling contest held last week in Janesville, at the court
house.  Winners from schools in 10 Rock County townships competed.  Beverly is a seventh grade
pupil at Pleasant Prairie School, Union township.  Mrs. Floyd Roberts, a teacher for ten years at the
school, has been Beverly’s teacher during her entire elementary training period.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Women’s Bowling Association members held their annual year-end banquet
last week and re-elected all officers as follows:  Mrs. LaVerne Gallman, president; Mrs. Marion Clark,
vice president; Mrs. Lester Rasmussen, secretary; and Mrs. Henry Holz, sergeant at arms.  League
bowling will be discontinued until the fall season opens.

30 Years Ago (1978):   Mrs. Thea Brunsell and Mrs. Jo Waeffler gave a bridal shower for Melinda Eager,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alan Eager Saturday, April 29, at the home of Mrs. Thea Brunsell.  About 18
guests were at the shower from Evansville and Madison. Miss Eager will become the bride of Bruce
Poole, San Francisco at the home of her parents June 17.

20 Years Ago (1988):  According to Charles Nordeng, commander of the Evansville Post 35, American
Legion, Evansville will get the military tank, the M47, that it has been waiting for since 1985.  It is due to
arrive late in May.  Nordeng says the tank will come from Anniston, Alabama Army Depot and will be
brought here by the Monroe National Guard, which will be on maneuvers in Louisiana May 7-21.  After
maneuvers, two Guard members will drive to Alabama with a truck and trailer to pick up the Patton tank.

10 years ago (1998):  Confirmation of the 1998 class of the United Methodist Church was held last
Sunday.  Class members were Kristin Fuchs, Julie Christianson, Derek Allen and Mitch Chapin.  Rev.
Bert Lohr is the pastor.


In Review
Second Week of May 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Poisoned – A little boy, two and a half years old, son of Wm. Bedford, Esq., died
on Saturday morning, from strychnine, incautiously placed within its reach.  A vial containing the
poison with others had been removed from its usual place of safety by a member of the family, not
knowing its contents, and to where the little child obtained access to them.  In removing the cork with
its teeth it took the poison sufficient to throw it into spasms and died before medical aid could be
brought to avail.  Several children have within a short time been lost to the family, and the untimely
death of this child falls with crushing weight upon its parents.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Tom Aspell, while attempting to board a freight train Saturday to go
southward, as he states, fell in such a manner that a wheel passed over his right arm near the elbow.  
It was amputated by surgeons Evans and Smith, assisted by Dr. Griswold.  It is said that he was partially
intoxicated, which was the primary cause of the accident.  Dr. Lucas says it is a low, contemptuous
slander, gotten up to injure him.  He never aided or furnished Tom Aspell with a drop of liquor, by
which he got intoxicated and lost his arm, and furthermore, he has not tasted a drop of liquor himself
for over two years, much less furnished it to anyone else.  These statements he is ready to verify on
oath.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mr. A. H. Fessenden has presented a petition containing 26 names to our village
board requesting that he be allowed to run a temperance billiard hall in this place.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Flour has been jumping up 25 cents a sack every time the Chicago daily arrives
for several days, and where it will end still remains a mystery; we shall soon have to commence a diet
of oat and corn meal and possibly wild hay.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Ad Barnum went down to the stock yards Monday to buy a couple of fat cows for
Lee’s market.  When he got there he found that the cows, which had been sold to Robert Stevens, had
brought the neat sum of $167.10.  Ad didn’t faint when he heard it, but went back up town.  These cows
were fattened and sold by John Robinson, of the town of Union.  They were Herefords, weighed
something over 1440 pounds each, and at six cents per pound, live weight, brought the above
figures.  And yet it is said sometimes that there is no money in farming.

90 Years Ago (1918):  There will be a special meeting of the Woman’s Literary Club in Library Hall
Tuesday evening, May 14 and a cordial invitation is given us to attend.  Mrs. O. C. Colony, who was a
delegate, has just returned from the Bicentennial Convention of the General Federation of Woman’s
Clubs.  The message she brings us from those loyal, earnest women is full of enthusiasm.  Let us all,
especially the club women of this city, avail ourselves of this opportunity of hearing Mrs. Colony and
gaining fresh inspiration for the work that is before us all.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Russell Hall left with his show Monday crossing the river at Dubuque, Iowa, and
will work up through Iowa and Minnesota and on into Canada.  Frank Hall, under the name of
Vandenburg Bros., Shows, opened Thursday at Whitewater, going from there to Edgerton and showing
here Saturday May 12.  H. A. Bruce, who was for several years a trap drummer in the Gollmar Bros.
Shows band and who married the daughter of George Hall, Junior, a sister of Russell and Frank Hall,
also started his show out from this city Wednesday morning, showing first at Utica and Rockdale.  
Walter Gollmar and William Campbell, who married the daughters of Col. George W. Hall, for many years
have also been in the show business.  Mr. Gollmar being one of the famous Gollmar Bros., while Mr.
Campbell has had several different minstrel shows, selling his last one last year, being now manager
of a large show in the East and South.

70 Years Ago (1938):  A group of 15 Boy Scouts under the leadership of Scoutmaster George Greenway
has completed the planting of 300 small white pine trees which were contributed by the American
Legion Auxiliary through an arrangement with The Wisconsin Conservation Commission.  The trees
have been planted near the lake shore in Leota Park.  They were grown in state owned nurseries and
should add materially to the present beauty of the park.  The local Legion Auxiliary has joined with
other auxiliary units in planting a forest of memory pine trees in the northern part of the state and
dedicating the forest to those boys in khaki who marched away to the World War.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Harry Roderick, Jr., will be the speaker at the regular meeting of the Waucoma
Grange next Tuesday at Grange Hall.  He will discuss Air Defense.  In that Mr. Roderick was keenly
interested in that phase of army work during the war, he will be able to give an interesting talk and
answer questions.  His discussion will be supplemented with musical numbers.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Pruden Products Company is adding 6,000 feet of floor space to their plant in
Evansville.  They are using their own framing which is being accepted throughout the United States for
industrial, commercial and agricultural buildings.  The Pruden Products Company moved to Evansville
from Fort Atkinson four years ago.  Their line of clear span steel building frames was developed in
Evansville and has been so well accepted that this is their second addition to their manufacturing
facilities.  The present new construction is 60 x 100 feet making total plant space at 30,000 square feet.  
Pruden will make good use of the new floor space as well as expand their night crew if present
activities are an indication of what will be needed during the peak of the construction season in the
summer and fall.  Pruden steel framing is sold nationally through retail lumber yards since they have
the roofing, siding and hardware to complete the buildings.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Evansville Board of Education accepted resignations from eight teachers
and accepted contracts for nine new teachers.  Resignations were submitted by Katherine Grapsas,
Lois Infeld, Judith Kirschbaum, Darlene Larson, Dorothy Koch, Kathryn Marquardt, Leta Minke and
Douglas Schuler.  Contracts for new teachers were approved for Janet Plourde, Duane Updike, Victor
Illichmann, Jon Enos, Bonnie Maul, Nancy Owens, Ann Kerkenbush, Louis Levy and Charleen Quam.

30 Years Ago (1978):   The Evansville Health Planning Association received a positive report from the
committee which had met with several Madison health service administrators and Dr. Roger Gray,
Evansville, in pursuit of another doctor or two for the Evansville area.  Pam Wilson, Rev. Dave Stratton,
Rev. I. Dean Jordan, Larry Lauke, and Cliff Woolever met with Dave Anderson, Methodist Hospital
senior vice president, Dr. Blake Waterhouse, Jackson Clinic and Dr. Gray.  “A partner for Gray is the
best way to go,” said Pam Wilson, in presenting some of the conclusions she drew from the meeting.  
Dr. Gray’s current office is set up for two physicians.  The facility could also handle the additional
presence of a physician assistant or a nurse practitioner.  A primary care physician who has a
residency in family practice medicine is what Dr. Gray and the EHPA are looking for.

20 Years Ago (1988):  David Wartenweiler, building inspector, reports the following:  in 1987, there
were 107 building permits issued.  The estimated cost of these projects or the value of the permits
issued was $739,999.  The fees collected for 1987 were $5,206.  This number includes street openings,
and variances issued as well as permit fees.  These numbers are a decline from 1986.  The largest part
of the difference can be related to the Baker Block project in 1986.  There were 6 permits issued for
new residences, 3 house additions and 10 new garages constructed.  A total of 451 inspections were
made in 1987.  .

10 years ago (1998):  The Junior Class Prom Court for 1998 were Amber Gorman, Casey Fellows, Jessy
Steig, Abbey Tomlin, Jill Krumwiede, Emily Alling, Stephanie Koepp, Kristin Helker, Lisa Hallmark, Carri
Heacox, Meghan Hintze, Steve Wickersham, Seth Cratsenberg, Josh Stadt, Brian Cufaude, J. R. Crans,
Mike Thornton, Kevin Schneider, Ryan Subera, Marty Johnson, Adam Bradley and Derek Bergum.  The
prom theme was “City of Lights” and the song was “Unchained Melody.”  

In Review
Third Week of May 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Improvements.  The Methodist society have sold their old parsonage grounds to
Jacob West, and have chosen a committee to make new locations and prepare for the immediate
erection of a parsonage.  The grounds about the church have been leveled off, a very substantial and
quite neat fence put up and some few shade trees planted; more are to be set.  The improvement is
commendable to the enterprise of the people.  The Baptists (F. W.) have put down a walk in front of
and leading to their church.  We learn that measures are being taken for raising funds to paint their
parsonage.  Several new houses have sprung up in different parts of the village within the few weeks
past, and new fences have been built, which lend an air of cheerfulness to the home and give a thrifty
appearance to our village.  [Note:  An 1858 map of Evansville shows the Methodist parsonage on the
southwest corner of West Main and Third Street.  The Free Will Baptist Church was located on the
south side of the first block of Church Street, west of Madison Street. For a view of the 1858 map go
to:  http://www.evansvillehistory.net/1858map.jpg]

130 Years Ago (1878):  A. S. Baker & Co. have had another large lot of six-page circulars, for their new
Monitor Windmills.  Usually business is dull at this season; but we have had quite our usual amount to
do.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  The three hotels in this place all seem to be doing very good business.  The
Central is crowded with traveling troops and salesmen while the Commercial and Evansville House
have their share of the traveling public and all the boarders they wish to accommodate.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Flower thieves are complained of in various parts of the city, but the worst
complaint comes from those who have them taken from the sacred precincts of the cemetery.  We
have not heard of any yet this season, but the seasons past it has been a frequent occurrence and
should be stopped with a shot gun if necessary, for there is no excuse whatever for such low,
unfeeling vandalism.

100 Years Ago (1908):  John Wood died at his home about 4 ½ miles southwest of this city Thursday
evening, aged 83 years.  About two years ago he had a stroke of paralysis, from which he never
recovered.  Mr. Wood was born at Brighton, England, Dec. 12, 1824 and came to this country with his
young wife, Mary Ann White, in 1850, locating in Janesville, and later, on a farm near the Owen’s mills.  
He leaves two daughters, Mesdames Albert Gibbs and Stephen Wells, both of this city and one son,
Edward T. Wood, who lives in the farm home in Magnolia.  Mr. Wood was a member of the Free Baptist
Church. He has been a patient sufferer for the past two years and quietly passed away May 14, 1908.  
The funeral services were held Saturday afternoon from the Free Baptist church, Rev. L. E. Sealey
officiating.  The interment was made in Maple Hill cemetery.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Death came suddenly Monday to the old veteran showman, George W. Hall, who,
for over fifty years, has made this city his home, and here has trained many of the animals with which
he made his enviable reputation as a showman.  George Washington Hall was born in New Hampshire,
according to his own statement, Dec. 5, 1835.  His parents were Joseph and Susan Hall, of good old
New England stock.  In 1855, he was married to Sara Wilder, at Concord, N. H.  A son, George
Washington Hall, Jr., and a daughter Mrs. Jessie Gollmar, of Evansville, survive this marriage.  One
son, Charles, and a daughter, Ida, have preceded their parents in death.  In 1876, he was united in
marriage to Marie Louise Tolen, at St. Louis, and had one daughter, Mabel Campbell, well known in
circus life, who now conducts a show of her own, survives him.  In the passing of “Pop” Hall, as he was
affectionately known, Evansville loses a big-hearted, open-minded citizen, who has established
himself permanently in the hearts of many of those he has befriended and who has made our little city
noted in many states as the abiding place and the home of “The Greatest Living Showman.”

80 Years Ago (1928):  The city force is busy these days fixing up the city and tourist parks so as to be
ready for the big rush of tourist travel which is sure to come this summer over the National Parks
Highway.  The dead water space just west of the bath house where the water has always stood dead
and green in the summer time has been filled in.  An entirely new system of lighting is being installed
and six larger lights being added.  Appropriations have already been made for the two steel bridges
which connect the dam and the spillways and they will be put in as soon as they arrive.  The Baker
Manufacturing Co. is ordering these bridges.  The parks are so popular with the people of surrounding
towns for Sunday and anniversary picnics that there seems not be to be room enough for them on
Sundays, despite the large number of tables and other equipment which are already there.  Mr. Ellis
states that already there is quite a little tourist traffic going through and stopping here and that he
expects this season that the parks will be crowded to capacity.

70 Years Ago (1938):  A wartime atmosphere prevailed throughout Evansville this morning as a
battalion of 30 men of the Third Field artillery paraded through the city enroute from Fort Sheridan, Ill.,
to Camp McCoy at Sparta.  The attachment, which included scores of sleek saddle horses, and
provision wagons, camped last night in Janesville and was slated to spend tonight in Oregon.  The
battalion which stopped here for a short rest period, paraded west on Main Street from Maple turning
north on Madison Street, and was viewed by a large crowd of spectators who thronged the sidewalks
as the unit passed.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Gary Deininger suffered painful injuries about his face and eye recently when
struck in the face by a B-B gun pellet which he and some friends were playing war.  He is a patient at
St. Mary’s hospital, Madison, where a pellet was removed from his cheek.  It is not yet known whether
he will lose the sight of the injured eye.  Gary is in the fifth grade at the Evansville school.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Evansville high school’s baseball team coached by Bernie Golz, Thursday upset
Sun Prairie 3-2 to bring about a three-way tie for first place in the western division of the Madison
Suburban league.  Chuck Peterson tripled and scored on a wild pitch in the fifth inning for Evansville’s
winning run.  Peterson also pitched a three-hit ball game, Peterson had two hits in three tries and Paul
Brown had two hits in two tries to lead Evansville’s attack. Evansville’s final baseball game of the
season will be Thursday night at Leota Park against Milton.  Both teams are tied with Sun Prairie for the
western division lead.

40 Years Ago (1968):  One of Evansville’s oldest landmarks is gone.  For the past two years, the old
Magee Theater building has been a subject of comment and speculation as to when and how the
building could be razed.  It hasn’t been used since 1942 and during the intervening years it has
deteriorated inside and outside until when T. Madden and Co., began work on it last week, there was
practically nothing inside and the entire building was considered a hazard.  According to city officials
no special plans have been made for the use of the vacant lot, but to older Evansville residents,
although they know the building had to come down, East Main Street will never be quite the same
without the old Magee Theater.

30 Years Ago (1978):   Clarence S. Franklin, native of the Evansville- Cooksville area and one of
Evansville’s oldest residents, will be the guest of honor at a birthday party to be held May 21 in the
First Baptist Church.  Clarence will be 95 years old.  He was born on the Franklin farm in the Cooksville
area.  He attended the Cooksville rural school and was graduated from the Evansville High School and
he also attended the Evansville Seminary.  Clarence and his wife Winifred are active citizens of
Evansville during the summer months; they spend their winters in their Florida home.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  After 33 years in business on Main Street in Evansville, Rowland Straka
announced at last week’s Chamber of Commerce meeting, that he is planning to move his business to
Watertown in the late summer.  Rowland’s father, Joseph Straka, started the business in December of
1924.  It was in 1955 that he took over from his father.  Straka, who has been treasurer for the Chamber
of Commerce for the past several years, joins several other businesses recently, who have left the
downtown Evansville area, citing a lack of business.

10 years ago (1998):  St. John’s Praise Team and Junior Choir will take their music on the road and will
be among several groups providing musical entertainment for 600 Christians gathered for the
Evangelical Lutheran Church of America at the Dane Co. Expo Center.  Amy Eager, keyboard player for
the Praise Team, sees this as a wonderful opportunity for churches to promote Christian music.  The
Praise team includes JoEllen Sigmund, Kitty VerKuilen, Linda Rehfeldt, Deanna Quam, Jeff Herbers,
Dena Martin, Shelly Meredith, Mike Goetz, Jeff Farnsworth, Mike Halvorson, Young Nguyen, and Dave
Persons.  Linda O’ Leary, is director of St. John’s Jr. Choir, with choir members Stephanie Abey,
Kimberly Beedle, Brian Crocker, Abey Farnsworth, Katie Herbers, Charlee Larson, Rachel Martin,
Christian Peterson, Nathan and Ryan Peterson, Tina Schnabel, Andrew Soetart, and Adam VerKuilen.  
Sharon Magee is the accompanist.   

In Review
Fourth Week of May 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):   Married.  At the residence of the bride’s father, in Plymouth, Wis., May 20, 1868,
by Rev. Samuel Lugg, Mr. John E. Sargent, of Evansville and Miss Mary J. Smiley.  Accompanying the
above, were three generous slices of cake, for which the parties have our thanks.  We never yet have
known of a divorce or a breech of fidelity where the parties so generously and thoughtfully
remembered the printer.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The following is the Executive Committee to arrange for the Sunday School
celebration to be held about the middle of June, or at such time and place as the committee may
decide upon.  A. S. Baker, Ch’m of Committee; J. W. Osborn, G. H. Palmer, Barny Standish, James
Bullard, B. S. Hoxie, Alvah Marden, Watson Turner, of Porter; S. Smith, Brooklyn.  Early arrangements
should be made and schools notified of the time and place where the celebration is to be held.  W. S.
Smith, Secretary.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mr. G. A. Goff, Jr., representing the firm of John Brand & Co., of Elmira, N. Y.,
now occupies the Smith & Eager’s tobacco warehouse where he has quite a large force of hands busily
engaged in sorting & etc. of Wisconsin tobacco.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Mr. Wm. Huyke, 79 years of age died suddenly of heart failure at his home in
Magnolia on Thursday, May 26, 1898, at 12 o’clock m.  His funeral was held at the Advent church at
Magnolia Corners on Sunday.  Rev. Wm. Newton officiating.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Col. Geo. Hall’s pet leopard reached out of the cage Monday and seized the
Colonel by the arm, taking out a chunk of flesh about as large as a silver dollar.  Lucky it was no worse.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The Baker shops decided to hire women, if possible, to run machines and to do
lighter work, and hung out a help wanted sign to that effect.  But as yet there has been no rush of
women to fill the vacant positions as all the women of this city seem to be busy.

80 Years Ago (1928):  In the class exercises this afternoon and the commencement exercise this
evening, in the school gymnasium, there will appear the largest Senior Class ever graduated from the
Evansville High School, numbering forty-three.  Miss Martelle Griffeth being valedictorian and Miss
Ruth Guilfoyle, salutatorian, and Miss Janet Weber being winner of the Honor Medal.  The faculty which
has piloted this class is composed of J. P. Mann, Superintendent; the Misses L. Hampton, D. Scott, F.
Magdanz, G. Droppers, A. Benson, D. Neitzel, R. Burkman and the Messrs., F. Wheeler, P. Finstad, E.
Johnson and R. Jack.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Mrs. F. O. McKinney, prominent Evansville Gold Star mother, whose son, for
whom the Harry McKinney Legion post here was named, is this week in receipt of an official letter from
France stating that the Memorial Day service in Bony Veteran Cemetery overseas will be broadcast
this year at 10:30 Central Standard time next Sunday.  The broadcast arrangements have made it
possible for Gold Star mothers to hear the impressive ceremony at home and just as well as though
they were near the graves of their sons.  The service will be relayed in the United States over the
National and Columbia networks.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Curtis Pierce, 75, life resident of this community with the exception of four years
spent in S. Dakota, died in St. Mary’s hospital Madison at 8 p.m. Monday.  He had been ill three days.  
Son of Flavius and Maria Pierce he was born in Porter township, Oct. 12, 1872 and was married to Zoe
Rogers in 1899.  Mrs. Pierce died in 1920.  Pierce was a member of the Waucoma Grange.  Surviving
are three sons, Asa, Walter, and Earl Pierce, all of Evansville; three daughters, Mrs. Russell Horne,
Milwaukee; Mrs. Vern Reilly, Edgerton and Mrs. Robert Demrow, Janesville; 15 grandchildren, one
brother, Locke Pierce, Clinton; and a sister, Maude Pierce, Oak Park, Ill.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The Rev. James Kramer, pastor of St. Paul’s Catholic Church will be the speaker
at Memorial day exercises in Evansville, which will take place at the cemetery.  As is customary, the
parade will form on First St., between Main and Church Streets at 9:30 a.m. Norman Bone will marshal
the parade with the Evansville High School band and the Wyler School Drum and Bugle Corps
providing the music.  The American Legion, the Legion Auxiliary, V. F. W. and its Auxiliary, the V. F. W.
firing squad, American War Mothers, Relief Corps, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, Brownies, Explorer Scouts,
Leota School and other school children have been invited to march in the parade.  Cars will be
furnished for those belonging to organizations who wish to ride.  At Maple Hill cemetery there will be
tributes to war veterans at the monument, followed by a program for the public.  American Legion
Commander, Richard Eager, who has made all Memorial Day arrangements will preside.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Postal Department recently honored Kenneth Ellis for sustaining superior
performance of assigned duty as a city mail carrier for 31 years.  He received a cash award and a pin
from Postmaster Michael Finnane.  The latter states that Ken makes few mistakes, is methodical in his
work, takes few sick leaves and is careful about accountable mail records.  Ken is well known among
his patrons and other townspeople for his dry sense of humor.  One of his favorite statements is “You
can’t depend on women and weather.”

30 Years Ago (1978):   Randy Luchsinger has won his second conference medalist title in as many
years.  “Most players only get the award once,” explained Coach Duane Updike, “and it is a real honor
to have been able to do it twice in your high school career.”  Randy won the title last year as a junior
and as a sophomore, he was runner-up.  Criteria for winning the award this year was having the lowest
18 hole score in the conference meet.  He accomplished this last Friday at the Coachman’s course
over in Stoughton.  Randy has set the school record with a round of 36 for nine holes in his
sophomore year and has twice duplicated this score since then.  “We’ll really miss Randy because of
his great golfing and a great attitude and leadership capabilities which meant so much to our recent
teams,” Updike added.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Two eighth graders, Rachel Mackie and Bethany Krake received First ratings in
piano at State Competition recently, competing against senior students.  Both had achieved Star First
ratings at the District Competition.  Rachel played a solo, performing Mozart’s Fantasia in D Minor.  
Bethany played a duet with Tara Bradley.

10 years ago (1998):  Commencement for the Class of 1998 will be held on Sunday, June 7 in the high
school gymnasium.  Randy Keister, Guidance Counsel for the Evansville High School, is proud to
announce that the Valedictorians for the Class of 1998 are Timothy Kruser and Aaron Wallisch.  Both
students have recorded a 3.988 grade point average which attending high school.  The Class of 1998
Salutatorian is Sherry Sanner.  She has accumulated a 3.979 grade point average.



In Review
First Week of June 1878-1998
Researched by Ruth Ann Montgomery

140 Years Ago (1868):   John Spencer, son of Henry G. Spencer, leaves this morning for California.  Dr.
Quivey and family join him at New York next week, and proceed together for the Pacific coast.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Citizens and others, who wish to celebrate the coming Fourth, are requested to
meet at the Town Hall at an early hour this evening, to make arrangements therefore.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Irwin Libby has a laid a new floor and made other repairs to the woodwork of the
Millspaugh building while other repairs to the same in the line of painting and plastering are going
rapidly forward preparatory to the moving in of Mr. Quinn, the new jeweler.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  Forty high schools of Wisconsin and Michigan participated in the fourth annual
state interscholastic athletic meet in Madison, Saturday.  Milwaukee Westside High School won with 31
points to their credit; Milwaukee Eastside was second with 27 points, while Evansville did remarkably
well in taking third place with 12 points.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Elaborate and extensive preparations are being made for the first annual picnic
and field day, under the auspices of the St. Paul’s society.  It is expected that Senator La Follette would
be the principal speaker of the day, but duties elsewhere precluded, and Congressman H. A. Cooper
has been invited to take the place.  Speaking will begin at 2 p.m.  In the morning there will be a ball
game between teams from Footville and Oregon followed by foot races, pole vaulting, tug of war, and
an afternoon ball game between the Evansville high school team and the winner of the morning game   

90 Years Ago (1918):   Cyrus Montgomery writes his mother in this city that he has arrived in France
and is in good health.  As nothing had been heard of the detachment he went with for some time it was
feared that he might be one of those who went down in the ship that was torpedoed in the English
Channel last week.  Robert Collins also writes that he has landed on French soil and sends greetings
to all his Evansville friends through the Review.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Earl B. Allen, who lives northwest of Evansville, died at Mercy Hospital,
Janesville, last Monday, after an illness lasting for many months.  Earl was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ethan
Allen and was born in Thomas County Kansas, December 18, 1888.  While still a small child he came with
his parents to Wisconsin where he received his education and grew to manhood on his father’s farm
west of Evansville.  On January 1912, he was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Elmer, first settling on
a farm north of this city and later moving to their present place four miles northwest of this city.  Mr.
Allen is survived by his widow; six children, Elmer, Ruth, Kenneth, Arlene, Mildred and Melvin; his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ethan Allen, Evansville; two brothers, Loy, Brooklyn, and Ace, Evansville.  The
funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon with Rev. G. C. Saunderson in charge.  
Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Bernie Christensen, Dan Williams, Max Weaver, Glenn and Raymond Estes, and
Allie Peterson were in Janesville last week attending the 20th anniversary of Company M which event
included memorial services, parade, street dance, stag party, and a banquet at which more than 500
war buddies and their families were served.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Miller, Evansville, announce the approaching marriage of
their sister, Miss Joan Medler, to Howard Norby, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Norby, also of Evansville.  
The wedding will be an event of Saturday, June 19.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Rev. Arvid M. Romstad, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran church, announces another
historic occasion in the history of the congregation to be held at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, June 8.  The service
will center around the laying of the cornerstone of the beautiful new church.  Members of the
congregation and friends who may wish to attend will meet at the southwest entrance of the church.  
Inside of the cornerstone, which is made of granite, will be placed a copper box containing papers and
documents of special significance.  Groundbreaking ceremonies for the new church were held last
August 11.  Construction began early in September.  The church is constructed of Roman brick inside
and out, and with the overflow will seat about 650 people.  The nave proper will seat 300 with an
additional 40 in the choir.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Miss Myrtle Jane Green, 85, Evansville, died at 9:30 a.m. Thursday of last week at
Caravilla where she had been the past four years.  Daughter of Tom and Lydia Green, she was born
Jan. 9, 1883 at Palmyra, and came to Evansville to live when she was ten years old.  She completed her
high school education in the Evansville Seminary and attended Teachers College at Whitewater and
the Milwaukee Teachers College.  She taught schools in this area for 48 years, 43 of which were in the
Evansville elementary school.  For part of that time she held the position of grade school principal.  
She was a member of the Free Methodist Church here.  Her only survivors are nephews, nieces and
cousins, among whom are Ben T. Green, Evansville.  Private funeral services were held at 2 p.m. last
week Saturday in the Roderick-Ward funeral Home with the Rev. Thomas Wolff officiating.  Burial was in
Maple Hill Cemetery.

30 Years Ago (1978):   The Evansville High School Building Construction Trades held their second
annual open house, Saturday, May 27 and Sunday, May 28 from 1 to 4 p.m.  Students from the class
showed 500 people through the house and explained its features.  This two story house contains 2,046
sq. ft. and is fully carpeted.  The following are the members of the Building Construction trades
Advisory Committee who assisted the students:  Mr. Alvin Golz, Laufenberg Lumber Co.; Mr. Everett
Propst, Mr. Roland Propst, Propst Builders; Mr. Ronald Buttchen, electrical; Mr. Robert Petterson,
plumbing; Mr. Norman Oates, masonry and Mr. Norman Thompson, Thompson sand and gravel.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  After serving St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Evansville the past 11 years, Fr.
Thomas Lourim will be bidding goodbye to his parishioners and many friends, as he plans for his
retirement.  A native of Beloit, he graduated in 1934 from Beloit College with a degree in Sociology.  
During the Depression, in 1938-39, he was employed with the Rock County Public Welfare Dept.  Fr.
Lourium graduated from St. Francis Seminary in Milwaukee and was ordained at St. Raphael’s
Cathedral in Madison in 1948.  

10 years ago (1998):  Headlining the eighth annual scholarship night held at the high school was the
announcement of the four initial Heffel Memorial Scholarship recipients.  Erica Brewer, Jessica Jakes,
Tim Kruser and Aaron Wallisch each received a $3,330 scholarship provided by Evansville High School
alumnus, Jack Heffel of Rockport, Texas.  A trust established by Mr. Heffel will provide four
scholarships annually.

In Review
Second Week of June 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The adjourned school meeting Saturday night resulted in a vote to build a
school house costing $10,000--$3,000 by direct tax and $7,000 loan of five annual payments.  The vote
on the loan carried almost unanimously, 132 to 2.  The site nor the plans are yet agreed upon.  
Measures will immediately be entered upon for the erection of a school house to be completed in
season for winter school.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. I. M. Bennett left for Colorado Saturday morning last.  He goes west to see
his mountain ranch, and attend to marketing the products of his herds and fields.  He expects to be
absent some four or five weeks.  Mrs. Bennett, and their daughter, Annie, have been there for several
months, indeed, nearly the whole winter, and are expected to return at the same time.  Mr. Bennett
having had the estate of the late C. W. Hines to attend to, and with his own affairs, has kept him pretty
busy, and had to leave on Saturday morning to make the best use of his time.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Byron Andrews, of the Washington (D.C.) Republican, made an overnight call at
the old homestead at the head of Church street, Friday.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Married at the Free Baptist parsonage on Saturday, June 4, 1898, at 2 o’clock p.
m. by Rev. M. C. Miner, Mr. Louis Algrim and Miss Anna Louisa Pepple, both of West Magnolia.

100 Years Ago (1908):  W. J. Kennedy and Rose A. Ryan of Footville, were united in marriage by Father
Fitzgerald.  After the ceremony the couple partook of a wedding dinner at the home of the bride’s
parents, thence a wedding trip to Chicago.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Frank B. Green & Sons have secured a tent of the Madison Tent and Awning Co.
for the Tri-County sale of pure bred Holsteins to be held at the Evansville Fair Grounds on June 19.  
This sale promises to be a great event and breeders from all over the country will be in attendance.  
Some of the very best blood of the Holstein breed will be put up at this sale.  The catalogue of the sale
is now on the press and will soon be ready for distribution.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Notice has been published in this paper for several weeks that the fair grounds
will be sold at public auction, next Saturday at 1:00 p.m. to the highest bidder.  There is no question but
what this property should belong to the city, as the time is near when it will be needed for an aviation
landing field, and once the property gets into the hands of private parties or speculators it will cost
the city much more when it becomes a necessity than it can be bought for now.  It is unfortunate that
the matter came up after the City Council had arranged their 1928 budget, so that this year they have
no money with which to purchase property.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  Three outstanding members of the 1938 graduating class were awarded medals
at the annual commencement exercises.  Donald Rosen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Rosen, received the
school honor medal awarded on the merits of scholarship, extra curricular activities and attitude
toward teachers and studies.  The American Legion honor medal awarded on the basis of participation
in athletic activities went to Theodore Thompson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Thompson.  Mary Franklin,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. S. Franklin, was awarded the American Legion Auxiliary medal given on the
merits of scholarship, athletics, companionship, attitude and extra curricular activities.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  Miss Anna Noyes will quietly observe her 85th birthday Friday at her home here
on West Main Street, where she and her brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. George Noyes reside.  
Miss Noyes came here with her parents and brother and sister, the late Miss Katie Noyes from Sun
Prairie more than 50 years ago.  She taught in rural districts in this locality and in the Brooklyn public
schools for several years.  Miss Noyes is a member of the Methodist church.  She is active for her age
and takes a keen interest in affairs of her family and friends.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Recent confirmands at St. John’s Lutheran Church, the last class to be confirmed
in the old church on South First street, are Jane Roberts, Robert Natz, Karen Meiers, Karen
Hermanson, Ronald Busch, Sandra Neal, Joseph Persons, Gerald Natz, Gordon Starks, Thomas Hatlen,
Gordon Klitzman, Roy Spersrud, Kathleen Kazda, Alice Klug, Thorfin Olson, Janet Davis, David Nelson,
Kathryn Haakenson and Alan Ovre.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Rev. Joseph Brechtl is arriving in Evansville to assume his duties as pastor
of St. Paul Catholic Church succeeding the Rev. James Kramer; who is moving to Madison.  The Rev.
Mr. Brechtl will be in the pulpit on Sunday, June 16.  He has been pastor of St. Andrew’s Catholic
Church in Verona the past 14 years and also served St. William’s Mission at Paoli.  He is a native of
Plain, Wisconsin.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Dave Goodspeed, former EHS wrestler, currently a member of University of
Wisconsin’s wrestling team, placed first in the 136 pound class of the Junior World Division of the A.A.
U. National Freestyle wrestling tournament.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  Rev. Robert A. Garbrecht, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Evansville, will
be retiring and an open house will be held in his honor on Sunday, June 26.  Pastor Garbrecht’s final
sermon will be June 26th and marks 35 years of active ministry.  The Garbrecht’s will remain in
Evansville and he will do special ministry assignments in the area.

10 years ago (1998):  Monday night at the Evansville School District Board meeting, Principal Bob Scott
announced his resignation.  Scott accepted an offer from Oregon on Friday, where he will be principal
of the high school.  

In Review
Third Week of June 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The storm of Sunday night was one of the greatest severity and longest in
duration of any we have experienced since eight years ago, the 5th inst. The rain fell in torrents during
the entire night.  At the same time the artillery of heaven was uttering its hoarser sounds in terrific
grandeur, while the vivid flashes of lightning revealed a perfect looseness of the aqueous elements.  
Creeks were swollen, mill-dams carried away, embankments washed, so that our regular trains were
some two hours or more behind their regular time, waiting for temporary repairs.  Some twenty feet of
Mr. Prentice’s mill dam washed away, and in several places the railroad was so much injured as to
temporarily obstruct the trains.  No freights have yet reached us.  Monday afternoon another storm of
similar force but of less duration came up.  The damage to advanced grain must be considerable, that
of more backward growth escaped with a severe beating down.  We have rain enough now to last us
several months, if that should be the pleasure of heaven.  [Note:  Harvey Prentice owned the grist mill
at the east end of Mill Street.  The mill was destroyed in a fire in 1930.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  A. S. Baker & Co. are putting up a building to be used solely as a foundry; 40 by
50 feet; 16 ft. posted.  Their former room will be used as store room and wood shop.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Union news:  A tree near Mr. Gillies’ house was struck by lightening last
Wednesday morning, several panes of glass were broken in a window but fortunately the family felt no
disagreeable effects from the shock.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Elijah D. Sholts, aged 77 years died at his home three miles north of Brooklyn on
Monday June 13, 1898.  The deceased was one of the earliest settlers in this country, coming from
Ohio to Milton Junction, Wis. in 1846.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Before an appreciative audience of relatives and friends, the graduating class
of the seminary, assembled in the chapel of that institution Sunday afternoon, to listen to the
baccalaureate address given by Professor E. G. Burritt of Greenville College.  The class exercises
proper were opened Monday evening when the Phoenix Literary Society entertained.  The recitations
by the Misses Maude Combs and Mae V. Sansom were exceptionally good.  The senior charge was
given by Mabel Kidney and the junior reply by Florence Lewis.  The quartet singing of “Lead Kindly
Light,” showed a strong harmony of voices.  The graduating exercises on Tuesday evening, marked
the Omega of class life for ’08 in the Seminary.  [Note:  Others, in the class were Wesley Gewehr, Harry
Gillett, Jessie McMurray, Mildred Parmley, Walter Pflaum, and Mabel Tullis.]

90 Years Ago (1918):  The sad news reached this city last Friday that Evansville had been called on to
furnish her quota to the awful needs of war and that Private Harry McKinney had been instantly killed
while fighting on the front in France.  Private McKinney was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Dell McKinney, of
Evansville, and enlisted in Company M April 7, 1917 and went with his Division first to Camp Douglas,
then to Waco, Texas, Camp Merritt, and then to France, where he served with credit to himself and
country until his death, May 21.  After his enlistment Private McKinney was married to Miss Hattie
Burroughs, of this city and to this union one child has been born.  He also leaves two brothers and one
sister to mourn his loss.  The whole city was depressed when the news came of his death and more
than ever has our city realized that we are indeed in the throes of an awful war that is likely at any
moment to reach into any of the ninety-five Evansville and locality families who have given sons to the
war and exact its awful toll of life or limb.

80 Years Ago (1928):  At a special meeting Tuesday evening, the City Council accepted the resignation
of C. C. Broughton, as Chief of Police and appointed Mr. Frank West to fill the position.  In answer to a
petition of 163 signers it was decided to continue the position of Traffic Police which Mr. West will fill
in connection with his duties as Chief of Police.  Mr. Broughton will continue in office as day police.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Two WPA crews comprising about 35 men working on a 100 hour per month
schedule are completing two improvement projects in the city, one at Leonard park which has been
the center of WPA activity for the past three years, and the other on Garfield avenue where sanitary
sewer and water mains are being laid.  The park crew, according to R. J. Antes, local WPA
administrator, is this week filing in the low areas in the Burr Jones recreation center, east of the lake.  
In completing this area, the Works Progress Administration has been furnishing the labor and a part of
the material.  The balance of the expenditure was taken from the $500 legacy donated to the park by
the late Burr Jones.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The Evansville Veterans of Foreign Wars organization has purchased a lot on
Park Road of Howard Bruce and plans to build a V. F. W. home there at some future date.  It is expected
that a basement will be completed before fall which will be used as a meeting place until finances will
allow erecting a building.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the City Council of the
City of Evansville by formal action has made family season tickets available to anyone desiring to use
Veterans memorial Swimming Pool to purchase such tickets at the regular price of $12.50.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Sandra Kay Hatlevig, daughter of Vernon Hatlevig 325 E Main St., Evansville and
Mrs. DeLoris Hatlevig, 490 E. Main St., Evansville and Robert John Schuh, son of Mr. and Mrs. George
Schuh, Rte. 1, Evansville were married in St. Paul Catholic Church at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 15 by the
Rev. James G. Kramer.  The bride is employed at Union Bank and Trust Co. and the groom is serving an
apprenticeship with the Cenco Corp., Janesville.

30 Years Ago (1978):  A piano recital was given by the students of Mrs. Marsha Dobbs on June 4, 1978
at the Methodist Church.  Those performing were: Gretchyn Lauke, Dena Schuh, Becky Dobbs, Amy
Patterson, Bill Westbrook, Danielle Meredith, Gale Yoerger, Lisa Kerkenbush, Kim Rhoda, John Lauke,
Jane Deininger, Mary Rhoda, Nathan Knuckles and Carl Gitchel.  Each student played two solos and a
duet.  The duets were assisted by either the student’s mother, father, sister of friend.

20 Years Ago (1988):  At the last regular meeting of Evansville 4-H, Nancy Jeans was chosen Evansville’
s 4-H Queen.  The daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Roland Jeans, graduated from Evansville High School this
June.  She is a 9th year member of the Evansville 4-H Club.  She has held offices as club president;
secretary, and junior council representatives.  Nancy has been in Dairy for the past eight years,
exhibiting registered Holstein cattle at district shows, county and state fairs.  She has won the Rock
County Herdsmanship Award; Evansville 4-H Dairy Herdsman Award; served as Rock County Dairy
Princess; and has been a State Fair exhibitor for six years.

10 years ago (1998):  Duane Updike, head basketball coach, Wyatt Fellows, star player, and Ron
Grovesteen, assistant coach, are preparing for the forthcoming All-Star Basketball game on June 20 at
the Kohl Center in Madison.


In Review
First Week of June 1878-1998
Researched by Ruth Ann Montgomery

140 Years Ago (1868):   John Spencer, son of Henry G. Spencer, leaves this morning for California.  Dr.
Quivey and family join him at New York next week, and proceed together for the Pacific coast.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Citizens and others, who wish to celebrate the coming Fourth, are requested to
meet at the Town Hall at an early hour this evening, to make arrangements therefore.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Irwin Libby has a laid a new floor and made other repairs to the woodwork of the
Millspaugh building while other repairs to the same in the line of painting and plastering are going
rapidly forward preparatory to the moving in of Mr. Quinn, the new jeweler.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  Forty high schools of Wisconsin and Michigan participated in the fourth annual
state interscholastic athletic meet in Madison, Saturday.  Milwaukee Westside High School won with 31
points to their credit; Milwaukee Eastside was second with 27 points, while Evansville did remarkably
well in taking third place with 12 points.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Elaborate and extensive preparations are being made for the first annual picnic
and field day, under the auspices of the St. Paul’s society.  It is expected that Senator La Follette would
be the principal speaker of the day, but duties elsewhere precluded, and Congressman H. A. Cooper
has been invited to take the place.  Speaking will begin at 2 p.m.  In the morning there will be a ball
game between teams from Footville and Oregon followed by foot races, pole vaulting, tug of war, and
an afternoon ball game between the Evansville high school team and the winner of the morning game   

90 Years Ago (1918):   Cyrus Montgomery writes his mother in this city that he has arrived in France
and is in good health.  As nothing had been heard of the detachment he went with for some time it was
feared that he might be one of those who went down in the ship that was torpedoed in the English
Channel last week.  Robert Collins also writes that he has landed on French soil and sends greetings
to all his Evansville friends through the Review.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Earl B. Allen, who lives northwest of Evansville, died at Mercy Hospital,
Janesville, last Monday, after an illness lasting for many months.  Earl was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Ethan
Allen and was born in Thomas County Kansas, December 18, 1888.  While still a small child he came with
his parents to Wisconsin where he received his education and grew to manhood on his father’s farm
west of Evansville.  On January 1912, he was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Elmer, first settling on
a farm north of this city and later moving to their present place four miles northwest of this city.  Mr.
Allen is survived by his widow; six children, Elmer, Ruth, Kenneth, Arlene, Mildred and Melvin; his
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ethan Allen, Evansville; two brothers, Loy, Brooklyn, and Ace, Evansville.  The
funeral services were held at the home Wednesday afternoon with Rev. G. C. Saunderson in charge.  
Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Bernie Christensen, Dan Williams, Max Weaver, Glenn and Raymond Estes, and
Allie Peterson were in Janesville last week attending the 20th anniversary of Company M which event
included memorial services, parade, street dance, stag party, and a banquet at which more than 500
war buddies and their families were served.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Miller, Evansville, announce the approaching marriage of
their sister, Miss Joan Medler, to Howard Norby, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Norby, also of Evansville.  
The wedding will be an event of Saturday, June 19.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Rev. Arvid M. Romstad, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran church, announces another
historic occasion in the history of the congregation to be held at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, June 8.  The service
will center around the laying of the cornerstone of the beautiful new church.  Members of the
congregation and friends who may wish to attend will meet at the southwest entrance of the church.  
Inside of the cornerstone, which is made of granite, will be placed a copper box containing papers and
documents of special significance.  Groundbreaking ceremonies for the new church were held last
August 11.  Construction began early in September.  The church is constructed of Roman brick inside
and out, and with the overflow will seat about 650 people.  The nave proper will seat 300 with an
additional 40 in the choir.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Miss Myrtle Jane Green, 85, Evansville, died at 9:30 a.m. Thursday of last week at
Caravilla where she had been the past four years.  Daughter of Tom and Lydia Green, she was born
Jan. 9, 1883 at Palmyra, and came to Evansville to live when she was ten years old.  She completed her
high school education in the Evansville Seminary and attended Teachers College at Whitewater and
the Milwaukee Teachers College.  She taught schools in this area for 48 years, 43 of which were in the
Evansville elementary school.  For part of that time she held the position of grade school principal.  
She was a member of the Free Methodist Church here.  Her only survivors are nephews, nieces and
cousins, among whom are Ben T. Green, Evansville.  Private funeral services were held at 2 p.m. last
week Saturday in the Roderick-Ward funeral Home with the Rev. Thomas Wolff officiating.  Burial was in
Maple Hill Cemetery.

30 Years Ago (1978):   The Evansville High School Building Construction Trades held their second
annual open house, Saturday, May 27 and Sunday, May 28 from 1 to 4 p.m.  Students from the class
showed 500 people through the house and explained its features.  This two story house contains 2,046
sq. ft. and is fully carpeted.  The following are the members of the Building Construction trades
Advisory Committee who assisted the students:  Mr. Alvin Golz, Laufenberg Lumber Co.; Mr. Everett
Propst, Mr. Roland Propst, Propst Builders; Mr. Ronald Buttchen, electrical; Mr. Robert Petterson,
plumbing; Mr. Norman Oates, masonry and Mr. Norman Thompson, Thompson sand and gravel.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  After serving St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Evansville the past 11 years, Fr.
Thomas Lourim will be bidding goodbye to his parishioners and many friends, as he plans for his
retirement.  A native of Beloit, he graduated in 1934 from Beloit College with a degree in Sociology.  
During the Depression, in 1938-39, he was employed with the Rock County Public Welfare Dept.  Fr.
Lourium graduated from St. Francis Seminary in Milwaukee and was ordained at St. Raphael’s
Cathedral in Madison in 1948.  

10 years ago (1998):  Headlining the eighth annual scholarship night held at the high school was the
announcement of the four initial Heffel Memorial Scholarship recipients.  Erica Brewer, Jessica Jakes,
Tim Kruser and Aaron Wallisch each received a $3,330 scholarship provided by Evansville High School
alumnus, Jack Heffel of Rockport, Texas.  A trust established by Mr. Heffel will provide four
scholarships annually.

In Review
Second Week of June 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The adjourned school meeting Saturday night resulted in a vote to build a
school house costing $10,000--$3,000 by direct tax and $7,000 loan of five annual payments.  The vote
on the loan carried almost unanimously, 132 to 2.  The site nor the plans are yet agreed upon.  
Measures will immediately be entered upon for the erection of a school house to be completed in
season for winter school.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. I. M. Bennett left for Colorado Saturday morning last.  He goes west to see
his mountain ranch, and attend to marketing the products of his herds and fields.  He expects to be
absent some four or five weeks.  Mrs. Bennett, and their daughter, Annie, have been there for several
months, indeed, nearly the whole winter, and are expected to return at the same time.  Mr. Bennett
having had the estate of the late C. W. Hines to attend to, and with his own affairs, has kept him pretty
busy, and had to leave on Saturday morning to make the best use of his time.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Byron Andrews, of the Washington (D.C.) Republican, made an overnight call at
the old homestead at the head of Church street, Friday.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Married at the Free Baptist parsonage on Saturday, June 4, 1898, at 2 o’clock p.
m. by Rev. M. C. Miner, Mr. Louis Algrim and Miss Anna Louisa Pepple, both of West Magnolia.

100 Years Ago (1908):  W. J. Kennedy and Rose A. Ryan of Footville, were united in marriage by Father
Fitzgerald.  After the ceremony the couple partook of a wedding dinner at the home of the bride’s
parents, thence a wedding trip to Chicago.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Frank B. Green & Sons have secured a tent of the Madison Tent and Awning Co.
for the Tri-County sale of pure bred Holsteins to be held at the Evansville Fair Grounds on June 19.  
This sale promises to be a great event and breeders from all over the country will be in attendance.  
Some of the very best blood of the Holstein breed will be put up at this sale.  The catalogue of the sale
is now on the press and will soon be ready for distribution.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Notice has been published in this paper for several weeks that the fair grounds
will be sold at public auction, next Saturday at 1:00 p.m. to the highest bidder.  There is no question but
what this property should belong to the city, as the time is near when it will be needed for an aviation
landing field, and once the property gets into the hands of private parties or speculators it will cost
the city much more when it becomes a necessity than it can be bought for now.  It is unfortunate that
the matter came up after the City Council had arranged their 1928 budget, so that this year they have
no money with which to purchase property.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  Three outstanding members of the 1938 graduating class were awarded medals
at the annual commencement exercises.  Donald Rosen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Rosen, received the
school honor medal awarded on the merits of scholarship, extra curricular activities and attitude
toward teachers and studies.  The American Legion honor medal awarded on the basis of participation
in athletic activities went to Theodore Thompson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Thompson.  Mary Franklin,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C. S. Franklin, was awarded the American Legion Auxiliary medal given on the
merits of scholarship, athletics, companionship, attitude and extra curricular activities.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  Miss Anna Noyes will quietly observe her 85th birthday Friday at her home here
on West Main Street, where she and her brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. George Noyes reside.  
Miss Noyes came here with her parents and brother and sister, the late Miss Katie Noyes from Sun
Prairie more than 50 years ago.  She taught in rural districts in this locality and in the Brooklyn public
schools for several years.  Miss Noyes is a member of the Methodist church.  She is active for her age
and takes a keen interest in affairs of her family and friends.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Recent confirmands at St. John’s Lutheran Church, the last class to be confirmed
in the old church on South First street, are Jane Roberts, Robert Natz, Karen Meiers, Karen
Hermanson, Ronald Busch, Sandra Neal, Joseph Persons, Gerald Natz, Gordon Starks, Thomas Hatlen,
Gordon Klitzman, Roy Spersrud, Kathleen Kazda, Alice Klug, Thorfin Olson, Janet Davis, David Nelson,
Kathryn Haakenson and Alan Ovre.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Rev. Joseph Brechtl is arriving in Evansville to assume his duties as pastor
of St. Paul Catholic Church succeeding the Rev. James Kramer; who is moving to Madison.  The Rev.
Mr. Brechtl will be in the pulpit on Sunday, June 16.  He has been pastor of St. Andrew’s Catholic
Church in Verona the past 14 years and also served St. William’s Mission at Paoli.  He is a native of
Plain, Wisconsin.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Dave Goodspeed, former EHS wrestler, currently a member of University of
Wisconsin’s wrestling team, placed first in the 136 pound class of the Junior World Division of the A.A.
U. National Freestyle wrestling tournament.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  Rev. Robert A. Garbrecht, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Evansville, will
be retiring and an open house will be held in his honor on Sunday, June 26.  Pastor Garbrecht’s final
sermon will be June 26th and marks 35 years of active ministry.  The Garbrecht’s will remain in
Evansville and he will do special ministry assignments in the area.

10 years ago (1998):  Monday night at the Evansville School District Board meeting, Principal Bob Scott
announced his resignation.  Scott accepted an offer from Oregon on Friday, where he will be principal
of the high school.  

In Review
Third Week of June 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The storm of Sunday night was one of the greatest severity and longest in
duration of any we have experienced since eight years ago, the 5th inst. The rain fell in torrents during
the entire night.  At the same time the artillery of heaven was uttering its hoarser sounds in terrific
grandeur, while the vivid flashes of lightning revealed a perfect looseness of the aqueous elements.  
Creeks were swollen, mill-dams carried away, embankments washed, so that our regular trains were
some two hours or more behind their regular time, waiting for temporary repairs.  Some twenty feet of
Mr. Prentice’s mill dam washed away, and in several places the railroad was so much injured as to
temporarily obstruct the trains.  No freights have yet reached us.  Monday afternoon another storm of
similar force but of less duration came up.  The damage to advanced grain must be considerable, that
of more backward growth escaped with a severe beating down.  We have rain enough now to last us
several months, if that should be the pleasure of heaven.  [Note:  Harvey Prentice owned the grist mill
at the east end of Mill Street.  The mill was destroyed in a fire in 1930.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  A. S. Baker & Co. are putting up a building to be used solely as a foundry; 40 by
50 feet; 16 ft. posted.  Their former room will be used as store room and wood shop.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Union news:  A tree near Mr. Gillies’ house was struck by lightening last
Wednesday morning, several panes of glass were broken in a window but fortunately the family felt no
disagreeable effects from the shock.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Elijah D. Sholts, aged 77 years died at his home three miles north of Brooklyn on
Monday June 13, 1898.  The deceased was one of the earliest settlers in this country, coming from
Ohio to Milton Junction, Wis. in 1846.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Before an appreciative audience of relatives and friends, the graduating class
of the seminary, assembled in the chapel of that institution Sunday afternoon, to listen to the
baccalaureate address given by Professor E. G. Burritt of Greenville College.  The class exercises
proper were opened Monday evening when the Phoenix Literary Society entertained.  The recitations
by the Misses Maude Combs and Mae V. Sansom were exceptionally good.  The senior charge was
given by Mabel Kidney and the junior reply by Florence Lewis.  The quartet singing of “Lead Kindly
Light,” showed a strong harmony of voices.  The graduating exercises on Tuesday evening, marked
the Omega of class life for ’08 in the Seminary.  [Note:  Others, in the class were Wesley Gewehr, Harry
Gillett, Jessie McMurray, Mildred Parmley, Walter Pflaum, and Mabel Tullis.]

90 Years Ago (1918):  The sad news reached this city last Friday that Evansville had been called on to
furnish her quota to the awful needs of war and that Private Harry McKinney had been instantly killed
while fighting on the front in France.  Private McKinney was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Dell McKinney, of
Evansville, and enlisted in Company M April 7, 1917 and went with his Division first to Camp Douglas,
then to Waco, Texas, Camp Merritt, and then to France, where he served with credit to himself and
country until his death, May 21.  After his enlistment Private McKinney was married to Miss Hattie
Burroughs, of this city and to this union one child has been born.  He also leaves two brothers and one
sister to mourn his loss.  The whole city was depressed when the news came of his death and more
than ever has our city realized that we are indeed in the throes of an awful war that is likely at any
moment to reach into any of the ninety-five Evansville and locality families who have given sons to the
war and exact its awful toll of life or limb.

80 Years Ago (1928):  At a special meeting Tuesday evening, the City Council accepted the resignation
of C. C. Broughton, as Chief of Police and appointed Mr. Frank West to fill the position.  In answer to a
petition of 163 signers it was decided to continue the position of Traffic Police which Mr. West will fill
in connection with his duties as Chief of Police.  Mr. Broughton will continue in office as day police.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Two WPA crews comprising about 35 men working on a 100 hour per month
schedule are completing two improvement projects in the city, one at Leonard park which has been
the center of WPA activity for the past three years, and the other on Garfield avenue where sanitary
sewer and water mains are being laid.  The park crew, according to R. J. Antes, local WPA
administrator, is this week filing in the low areas in the Burr Jones recreation center, east of the lake.  
In completing this area, the Works Progress Administration has been furnishing the labor and a part of
the material.  The balance of the expenditure was taken from the $500 legacy donated to the park by
the late Burr Jones.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The Evansville Veterans of Foreign Wars organization has purchased a lot on
Park Road of Howard Bruce and plans to build a V. F. W. home there at some future date.  It is expected
that a basement will be completed before fall which will be used as a meeting place until finances will
allow erecting a building.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the City Council of the
City of Evansville by formal action has made family season tickets available to anyone desiring to use
Veterans memorial Swimming Pool to purchase such tickets at the regular price of $12.50.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Sandra Kay Hatlevig, daughter of Vernon Hatlevig 325 E Main St., Evansville and
Mrs. DeLoris Hatlevig, 490 E. Main St., Evansville and Robert John Schuh, son of Mr. and Mrs. George
Schuh, Rte. 1, Evansville were married in St. Paul Catholic Church at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 15 by the
Rev. James G. Kramer.  The bride is employed at Union Bank and Trust Co. and the groom is serving an
apprenticeship with the Cenco Corp., Janesville.

30 Years Ago (1978):  A piano recital was given by the students of Mrs. Marsha Dobbs on June 4, 1978
at the Methodist Church.  Those performing were: Gretchyn Lauke, Dena Schuh, Becky Dobbs, Amy
Patterson, Bill Westbrook, Danielle Meredith, Gale Yoerger, Lisa Kerkenbush, Kim Rhoda, John Lauke,
Jane Deininger, Mary Rhoda, Nathan Knuckles and Carl Gitchel.  Each student played two solos and a
duet.  The duets were assisted by either the student’s mother, father, sister of friend.

20 Years Ago (1988):  At the last regular meeting of Evansville 4-H, Nancy Jeans was chosen Evansville’
s 4-H Queen.  The daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Roland Jeans, graduated from Evansville High School this
June.  She is a 9th year member of the Evansville 4-H Club.  She has held offices as club president;
secretary, and junior council representatives.  Nancy has been in Dairy for the past eight years,
exhibiting registered Holstein cattle at district shows, county and state fairs.  She has won the Rock
County Herdsmanship Award; Evansville 4-H Dairy Herdsman Award; served as Rock County Dairy
Princess; and has been a State Fair exhibitor for six years.

10 years ago (1998):  Duane Updike, head basketball coach, Wyatt Fellows, star player, and Ron
Grovesteen, assistant coach, are preparing for the forthcoming All-Star Basketball game on June 20 at
the Kohl Center in Madison.

In Review
Fourth Week of June 1878-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Some 1,400 square feet of solid fence is densely illuminated with flaming
posters representing scenes and animals to be exhibit by the world renowned, Yankee Robinson in
this place Friday, July 3d.  It is not enough to say that he will have one of the grandest shows ever
exhibited in Evansville, composed of rare beasts and creeping things from every clime, together with
equestrian performances almost inconceivable for mortals to accomplish, but go and see for yourself,
all who are pleased with the beauties of nature and the wonders of art.  [Note:  Yankee Robinson was a
Janesville Circus owner.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  A four mule team, drawing a family of emigrants from near Detroit, bound for
Dakota, passed through here Monday.  They make about 25 miles a day, and have been four weeks on
the road.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Died.  June 26, 1888, Mrs. Sally Little of old age and general debility, aged 82
years.  The funeral will be held at her son Wayland’s home (which has been the deceased’s home for a
number of years.)  The relatives have been telegraphed for and are expected here this Tuesday
evening.  The officiating clergyman will be our resident, M. E. Pastor, L. N. Wheeler,.  Undertakers,
Potter & Hartley.  Mr. Oscar Little, agent of the Illinois Humane Society, formerly of this place, but now
located in Chicago arrived here with his family to attend the funeral of his mother.  Mr. Little’s many
friends were greatly pleased to meet him once more in Evansville after an absence of over three
years.  It is hoped that he and his amiable wife and daughter will remain with us for a time renewing old
acquaintances and help us to celebrate.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Miss Tillie Knutson was prostrated upon the kitchen floor at the home of Mr. and
Mrs. Geo. Shaw, Thursday about 11 o’clock, by a shock of lighting, but soon recovered sufficient to be
taken to Mr. J. McMillan’s where her sister is caring for her.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Evansville Has A Baseball Team.  The club will be known as the Evansville
Baseball team with the following enthusiasts as officers:  Lew Van Wart, president; Father Fitzgerald,
vice president; D. Q. Grabill and D. F. Heddles, directors; Dr. C. M. Smith, treasurer; F. W. Gillman,
secretary and manager.  In the make up of the team several from the high school club will take part and
will occupy the infield supported by Howard Keefe, Burr Jones and Frank Gardner in the outfields.  
With this combination of players, Evansville will possess a strong, aggressive team ready for any trial
on the diamond for supremacy.  The business men and citizens have contributed liberally in a financial
way to the successful maintenance of the club.  The Military band will be in attendance and a large
crowd of fans will be in evidence.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Beginning last Monday, the employees of the Baker shops were granted a ten
per cent raise without any solicitation.  This shows a healthy condition of the business and the right
spirit on the part of the company.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Rock County which ahs been short of rain all spring, much to the detriment of the
hay crop, made up for it last Saturday night, Sunday and Sunday night, when over four inches of rain
fell within that time, again continuing Monday.  Many culverts in the town of Porter have been washed
out and also between Cooksville and Stoughton, to the extent that Highway 138 from Cooksville to
Stoughton has been impassible and Highway 59 has been detoured around by way of Fulton to avoid
the washed out culverts and the bridge over the Yahara River close to the D. A. McCarthy farm, which
has been under water.  Many farms in the low land, it is reported are under several feet of water.  
Notwithstanding the damage it has done, however, it will be a great thing for all the farmers of Rock
County, as this section has not had a real good soaking up for over a year, the lack of snow last winter,
letting the subsoil get dryer than it had been for years.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Supt. J. C. McKenna, Attorney Don Gallagher, Postmaster Roy Reckord, and A. C.
Holmes, president of the Board of Education, were in Chicago recently making application for a PWA
grant to be used in the erection of a new Evansville high school building.  Providing a grant is
approved, the city will receive 45 per cent of the total cost of the building and equipment and will not
be required to repay the grant.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The Evansville Bowling Alleys, formerly known as Carey’s Dairy Bowl on East Main
Street have been purchased from Mrs. Carey by Willard Waeffler.  The alleys are being reconditioned
and resurfaced for the opening under the new management later in the summer.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Rainbow Girls were installed with Karen Bennett as Worthy Advsior.  Other
members are Donna Golz, Norma Dille, Mary Lynn Estes, Diane Propst, Edith Tomlin, Alice Klug,
Merriellen Ashbaugh, Jean Marie Decker, Pam Erstad, Ann Schwartzlow, Margaret Templeton, Karen
Meier, Norma Estes, Carol Warner, Barbara Blair, Sally Capron, Pam Shannon, Judy Cain and Bonnie
Templeton.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Evansville Golf Association is extending an invitation to all to attend the
Grand Opening of the “upstairs at the clubhouse” June 30 from 2 to 5 p.m.  This part of the clubhouse
was used for the first time last weekend as members and guests were enetertained at an authentic
Hawaiian Luau.  It has been beautifully decorated with the help of interior decorator, Fred L. Stadt of
Madison.  The entire 40 x 80 foot structure was first completed for use in 1965 and is located at the
highest point of a 79 acre site north of town.  The Golf Association incorporated in April 1963, now has
184 members and stockholders.  The present officers are Nimmer Adamany, president,  John
Haakenson, vice-president,  K. D. Campbell, treasurer; and Jack McElroy secretary.  Willard Waeffler,
Ray Knapp, Adair Smalley, Mrs. Bryant Wackman, Mrs. Aylward Hamacher and the officers compose the
Board of Directors.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Weather and delay in the delivery of supplies and materials set back construction
of the low income housing apartments back two weeks, according to Judy Gitchell, executive director
of the Housing Authority.  The weather of last weekend caused considerable damage to the basement
walls of the second building as well as delay work on the first.  The heavy rains, soaked by the soft dirt
fill around the walls, were too heavy and two walls collapsed, separating from the foundations.  The
other building appears unharmed.  [Note:  this is the South Meadows Apartment complex.]

20 Years Ago (1988):  Wisconsin’s Department of Health and Social Services Secretary, Timothy F.
Cullen, has been appointed as southwestern Wisconsin regional vice president for Blue Cross & Blue
Shield United of Wisconsin and will direct the activities of the company’s Evansville office.

10 years ago (1998):  Joe Schroeder has signed a contract with the Evansville School District for high
school principal effective July 1, 1998.  Approval of his contract will be coming up at the special school
board meeting on Monday, June 29 in the high school library.  Schroeder, who has been assistant high
school principal at Evansville for the past three years, will replace Bob Scott, who has resigned as
Evansville High school Principal to return to Oregon High School.

n Review
First Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  To Mr. Nathaniel Blakely we are indebted for a generous quantity of the largest and finest
looking strawberries we remember to have seen produced in a northern latitude.  Some of the berries measure in
circumference over three inches and a half.  We did not learn the variety, but the berry is rich and aromatic, with
that firm and melting quality so desirable in a good strawberry.  Mr. Blakely is giving much attention to the
strawberry culture and produces a berry that is wonderfully large, delicious, and aromatic.

130 Years Ago (1878):  A quartette, and select reading by Mr. La Follette, from the Madison State University, at
Grange Hall Friday night was exhibited to a small, but appreciative audience.  Mr. La Follette is editor of the
University Press, and besides being a good reader, gets up a good paper.  [Robert M. La Follette was a frequent
visitor to Evansville, as he had attended the Evansville Seminary and had many friends in the area.]

120 Years Ago (1888):  Fritz Hanson, a boy about fourteen years of age, living a short distance north of Union,
received a dreadful wound of the left hand with slight damages to the right on Tuesday.  Mr. Christian Johnson who
brought him to Dr. Evans’ office informed us that the boy was handling a dynamite cartridge which exploded tearing
away the fore finger and thumb to the first joint of the left hand and injuring the thumb and forefinger of the right
hand badly.  We saw the hands while Drs. J. M. Evans, Sr., and Dr. W. P. Roberts were dressing them.  The whole
side of the left hand next to the thumb was terribly lacerated with the flesh literally torn into shreds making it
necessary for the Drs. to work carefully to secure sufficient skin in the proper places to take stitches to close up
the wound.  The boy being the son of a widow who needs his help badly makes his misfortune more serious.

110 Years Ago (1898):  This has been one of the most eventful days in the history of Evansville when 16 of our
brave patriotic boys took their departure for the army as follows:  Frank B. Wood, George Bidwell, Jr., George
Hammon, Frank Weaver, Frank Smith, Joseph Levzow, Harry Bagley, Robert Lang, Bert Crawford, Edwin Cole, Jr.,
Edwin Setzer, Moody Smith, George Neil, R. A. Neil, better known as Dicky Neil, L. B. Lees and Perry Clark.  When
the band gave the notice, with some of their most patriotic music, that the boys were about to start.  A large crowd
gathered upon the public square to bid them God- Speed and a safe return, but it was hard for mothers, relatives
and friends to restrain their feelings and tears flowed freely, as all realized that not all of these boys would ever
see their homes and friends again.  

100 Years Ago (1908):  Our newly organized city base ball team met and defeated the fast team known as the
Janesville Red Sox in a fast and interesting game at the fair grounds on Friday, the 26th, by a score of 5 to 1.  
Promptly at two o’clock the two teams headed by the Evansville Military Band, formed in line and started for the
battlefield.  The players were conveyed in automobiles furnished by local and visiting enthusiasts.  After the usual
warming up and the game was on.  

90 Years Ago (1918):   The D. E. Wood Butter Co. has just completed a lot of repairs on their plant in the way of a
better drainage system, lockers for the clothing of employees, new toilets, etc., and several other new features
have also been added to the plant that will have a tendency to make it a better place for employees to work and
will also result in an increased production of the plant.  This plant is now turning out a carload of butter every day,
June being the banner butter month.  It is expected that they will start the manufacture of oleomargarine the first of
September.

80 Years Ago (1928):  The directors of the holding committee of the Evansville Fair grounds which recently
purchased the grounds of the late Evansville Rock County Fair Association, met Monday evening and the following
officers were elected:  President R. M. Antes; Secretary Zala Miller; Treasurer L. L. Thompson.  It is stated that
fully eighty per cent of the stock holders of the old association have pledged themselves to give their shares to the
city, if the city will pay off this indebtedness, so as to let the grounds become the property of the people of
Evansville to be used for athletic and social and recreational purposes.

70 Years Ago (1938):  John Gardner Babcock, 93, Evansville’s last surviving Civil War veteran and his son,
Richard Babcock, Janesville, returned from Gettysburg, Pa., where they had been attending the reunion of the
Blue and the Gray on the same field where the old vets locked in combat 75 years ago.   Mr. Babcock was born in
Johnstown, Rock County, Oct. 14, 1844.  He enlisted in the Civil War at Janesville July 31, 1961 and was mustered
out at Nashville, Tenn., Nov. 19, 1864.  He was a member of Company B of the 13th Wisconsin Infantry.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The Rev. James Saunders and family recently moved to Evansville from Fennimore and are
now residing in the Methodist church parsonage.  The Rev. Mr. Saunders is the new pastor in the church here
following his graduation from the Northwestern University, Evanston, Ill., with a degree of Bachelor of Divinity.  The
pastor was born in Litherland, Liverpool, Eng., and became an ordained minister in his mother country before
coming to American in 1937.  He is a naturalized citizen of the United States.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Patsy Gilbert, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gilbert, who live near Brooklyn, has been
elected 4th of G. I. Queen for 1958.  Six other girls who were chosen to be members of the court are:  Miss Klee
Ashbaugh, Pamela Shannon, Susan Petterson, Darlene Muchow, Diane Propst and Sharon Slater.  The queen
and her court will ride in the 4th of G. I. parade on the float decorated by the American Legion Auxiliary.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Rev. Joseph Brechtl has arrived in Evansville and has assumed his duties as pastor of
St. Paul Catholic Church succeeding the Rev. James Kramer, who has moved to Madison.  The Rev. Mr. Brchtl has
been pastor of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Verona the past 14 years and also served St. William’s Mission at
Paoli.  He is a native of Plain, Wis.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Miss Terri Ann Thornton, daughter of Mrs. Rex Thornton, 43 N. Madison Street, Evansville
and Daniel Lawrence Weaver, son of Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Weaver, 44 N. Madison Street, Evansville, exchanged
wedding vows at a 3:30 p.m. ceremony on June 10, 1978.  Rev. Tim Kehl officiated at the Congregational Church
of Christ, at the altar decorated with bouquets of blue and white carnations, daisies, and statice with English ivy.  
The bride is a graduate of Evansville High School and is employed at the State Medical Society in Madison.  The
groom, also a graduate of Evansville High School, is employed by GMAD in Janesville.  Following a trip to
Wisconsin Dells the couple is now making their home at 61 Fifth Street in Evansville.
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  Evansville and Lake Leota are not unfamiliar to Father Robert Hughes, who has come to
serve his first pastorate at St. Paul’s Catholic Church here.  Lake Leota Park was as well known in his childhood as
was Palmer Park in his native Janesville.  Rose Cullen, a great aunt, lived in Evansville.  Father Hughes has toured
the U. S. on a bicycle.  Evansville area people may remember his father, Larry Hughes, of Janesville, who had
Brown and Hughes Implement Co., the John Deere dealer, which became McNall’s.  

10 years ago (1998):  A tornado touched town Thursday night between Fox and Eagle-Roherty Roads on both
sides of Highway 14 at about 7:05 p.m.  No one was reported injured.  The homes of several families were in the
direct path of one confirmed tornado and possibly a second one joining the first.  Of the seven homes in the area
of the tornado, three could not be reclaimed.  Homes and families in the path of the storm were Joel and Kathy
Gunn, Karl and Harriet Lindroth, Ron Hansons, Nancy Erdman, Gary Eggers, Dick and Linda Sanwick and Virgil
and Evelyn Ripp.

In Review
Second Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  MARRIED.  At the residence of the bride’s mother in Evansville, on the evening of July 4th,
by Rev. A. H. Hueling, Mr. George W. Palmer and Miss Ursula C. Newton, both of Evansville.  At the Free Will
Baptist parsonage by the same on July 4th, Henry D. Lockwood and Emma Tolles of Union.  

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Thomas O’Reilly, of whom we mentioned last week as having suffered the fracture of
his thigh, died at 11 o’clock Sunday, A. m.  He was an old man, and the fracture of a limb was more than his
constitution could bear.  He was buried Monday from his late residence.

120 Years Ago (1888):  We learn that little Ray Clifford, son of Mr. Charles Clifford was quite seriously burned
while the fire works were being exploded by being under the stand which was built for the latter purpose.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Frank Smith, Joseph Levzow and Edwin Cole became faint hearted and returned home.  
Edwin Setzer, Moody Smith, R.A. Neil, and L. B. Lees failed to pass the physical examination.  All the rest entered
the service.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The annual school meeting of this school district was held Monday evening and was
attended by about forty people, one-half of whom were ladies.  The treasurer’s report showed a surplus of $508.15
in the school fund and $88.11 in the library fund.  In the budget for 1908-9, it was deemed necessary to raise
some $11,552.27 for current expenses, and in addition a further sum of not to exceed one thousand dollars for fire
escapes on the two buildings.  The free text book question was voted negatively.  In the election of officers, P. C.
Wilder was re-elected to the office of clerk.  O. S. Shepard to succeed himself and Mrs. E. Gabriel to take the place
of Mrs. Gertrude Eager, whose term of office expired.

90 Years Ago (1918):  The Garden Canning Co. this week placed on their boiler a $40 whistle that can make a
thousand dollars worth of noise in one day; at least it sounds like a thousand dollars when it calls three different
shifts to work that are filling the full twenty-four hours of the working time at the factory.  Whistles like this, and lots
of them, is what makes a town, when they call lots of workers to their daily tasks at good wages.  To show the
condition of the iron and steel market, it is only necessary to state that this whistle was ordered last winter and was
only delivered this week.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Evansville needs the fairgrounds for the comfort and convenience of her surrounding
townships, like Union, Porter, Magnolia and Center, who often have celebrations which they wish to stage where
they can be safe from rain or storm in case the weather changes and where there is a ball diamond and track.  
Since the township play day and 4-H Club movements have become so popular, grounds of this kind are almost
essential to any town and Evansville is glad that she has something of the kind to offer the farmers and their
families, when they need them.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Two new windows recently purchased and installed in the Cooksville Lutheran church will be
dedicated by the Rev. Theodore Heimark, pastor, at the regular morning service next Sunday.  The window
depicting the scene of the Nativity was purchased by the children of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Haakenson and will be
dedicated in honor of their parents.  The window scene of the Resurrection is a gift of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Kjernes.  
Featuring the dedication service will be a vocal solo by Hans Haakenson, Jr. accompanied at the piano by Mrs.
Theodore Hatlen, church pianist.  The Cooksville church was completely remodeled and redecorated last spring
and was equipped with an attractive new altar, new pews, and other attractive furnishings.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Miss Arlene Miller was chosen queen of the Evansville 4-H Club at a preliminary contest
meeting held in the city hall last Friday evening.  The other contestants were Mrs. Alma Dunbar Schultis and the
Misses Ruth Krause, LaVena Tronnes, Harriette Clark, Viola Steindl and Harriet Tadder.  The judges were Mrs. R.
L. Collins, Mrs. L. L. Thompson and Miss Jane Crow.  They based their decision on appearance, personality,
health and 4-H records.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Captain Raymond G. Lawry, son of Mrs. Charles E. Lawry of 42 Montgomery Court, has
been awarded the wings of a senior pilot by the United States Air Force.  Captain Lawry is general Myers’ aide-de-
camp.  The general, commander of the Air training Command, with headquarters at Randolph AFB, Texas,
presented his aide with the wings in an informal ceremony at ATC headquarters.

40 Years Ago (1968):  There was a train wreck early Wednesday morning about one and one-half miles north of
the city.  Seven ballast hopper cars and one box car were derailed and strewn along about one quarter mile of the
railroad bed.  The hopper cars were loaded with ballast and the box car was carrying a minimum load of furnace
filters.  The train was southbound.  The cars were tipped over and some were on one side of the track and some
on the opposite side.  Transportation was laid up only a few hours because there is a siding track extending up
that far on which the trains could pass the wreckage.   

30 Years Ago (1978):  Jim Patterson, Gordon Kazda, Hazel Thompson and Dave Turner will take part in the 5th
annual Arts and Crafts Fair of the Spectrum Art Club of Brodhead on this weekend.  
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  The Patton M-47 tank was brought into Evansville last Saturday morning by members of the
Monroe National Guard.  Some two hours were spent in transporting and setting the tank into its permanent place
in the park, to be dedicated on July 4th.  On the Fourth, a huge crowd gathered for the ceremony, attended by
several dignitaries, including Congressman Less Aspin, who was instrument in helping the Evansville contingent
obtain the tank.  The tank now stands at the entrance to the park.  

10 years ago (1998):  At the June 29 meeting of the Evansville Board of Education, Dr. Gary Albrecht was
appointed to the newly created position of Assistant District Administrator.  Albrecht is also the principal of Levi-
Leonard Elementary School, a position he will retain.  Albrecht wears many hats, including the district assessment
coordinator and managing the adult crossing guards.  He also serves on the state board for the assessment and
supervision of curriculum.

In Review
Third Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  We call attention to the advertisement of Village property for sale, in this issue of the
Citizen.  The property is favorably and pleasantly situated and can be had at a bargain.  Poor health is the plea for
selling.  Mr. Johnson finds the bracing air of the Rocky Mountains an inducement to sell his property here, even at
a sacrifice of its real value, and remove with his family West.  Village Property For Sale.  A dwelling house and lots,
containing some 10 rods of frontage on Church Street, nearly opposite the F. W. Baptist Church.  The property is
held at low figures and on terms that will suit purchasers—a small portion down and the balance on time.  In
connection, I will sell 80 acres of marsh situated 1½ miles South of Evansville.  For particulars, inquire at the
premises.  Frank Johnson, Evansville, July 16, 1868.

130 Years Ago (1878):  A sulky horse rake, tobacco cultivator and spinning wheel will be sold at a bargain.  C. M.
Morehouse.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Died, July 11, 1888, Mrs. M. L. Tuttle, aged 76 years.  Her disease was a general wearing
out by old age.  She and her husband have lived with their son Charles upon their old homestead farm about two
and one-half miles northeast of this place.  The above named son lost his wife but a short time since and will be
doubly grieved over the loss of his kind old mother, who has been one of the most highly respected in their
neighborhood, always kind and accommodating to all.  The funeral was held at the house Thursday, Rev. E. R.
Curry officiating clergyman, Potter & Hartley undertakers.  [Note:  According to Maple Hill Index records, this was
Mariah L. Pitts Tuttle, Aug. 21 1812 - July 11, 1888, wife of Jonathan Tuttle.]

110 Years Ago (1898)   A society for doing work that may be helpful to the soldiers in camp, field or hospital, has
been organized and a meeting for the appointment of working committee will be held in the Public Library rooms on
Thursday evening July 14 at seven o’clock.  The ladies of Evansville vicnity are cordially invited to be present.  
Pearl H. Campbell, President.

100 Years Ago (1908):  George W. Hall, the veteran showman, received two lion cubs from Iowa parties, Saturday,
which he has added to his collection of wild beasts, on his farm, just south of this city.  These cubs will probably
weighed twenty-five pounds apiece, and were vicious little cusses when seen in their box at the express office.  
Cub lions are rare to secure and their value in dollars and cents runs into money fast.  Anyhow we are not over
anxious regarding these cubs as pets.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Theodore Johnson, the thirteen –year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Johnson, who live near
Union, died the first of the week and was buried at Cooksville.  The deceased had been sick for some time and was
a brother of Ben Johnson, a member of Co. M. who died at Waco, Texas, last winter.

80 Years Ago (1928):  In recent years there has been such a demand from the farm districts for electrical service
on the farm that every farmer who puts electric power on his farm must sooner or later throw out all his gasoline
equipment and replace it with motor driven machinery.  This has created such a demand for motor driven pumps
and jacks which would not only pump water for stock but will force it to some distance to fill high tanks or to irrigate
gardens and lawns.  To meet this demand, the Baker Manufacturing Co., which has been building the Monitor Line
of pumping mills and engines for many years have recently placed upon the market both an electric jack and an
electric pump.  The jack is made to accommodate those who still wish to use their own pumps, the pump being
driven by gears run by an attached electric motor, which takes the place of the gasoline engine of former years.  
The electrical pump is a compact power plant, which has all the working parts enclosed so that it is dirt and
waterproof.  When desired, the pump can also be furnished with a belt driven motor, the motor being placed
several feet from the pump.  This company is now getting out circulars regarding these new features in the Baker
products, which they will send to their agents all over the country and it is thought that there will be a good demand
for them, as it is stated that they are exceptionally well made and give excellent results.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The WPA project submitted for the erection of a shelter house in Leonard park with funds
donated by Stacia and Richard Henneberry has been approved and work on the building is slated to start about
July 28, it was announced this morning by R. J. Antes, local WPA administrator.  The project includes not only the
erection of the shelter house, but the completion of the stream rip-rapping in the park and the filling in of the low
areas.  The Henneberrys presented the city with a gift of $600 to be used in the erection of a park shelter house
last December and it was decided at that time that the building be known as the Henneberry Memorial.  The offer
was later submitted to the mayor and city council at a special meeting at which the gift was accepted.   

60 Years Ago (1948):  Miss Patricia Hensel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hensel, who represented Evansville at
the Badger Girls State camp in Madison last month, was elected a member of the assembly.  Chadbourne Hall on
the campus was the home of the campers for the week.  Miss Hensel was sponsored by the Evansville American
Legion Auxiliary.

50 Years Ago (1958):   With  375-400 entries expected to be on hand here Thursday, the annual Tri-County Black
and White Show this year is expected to be the best yet in this popular series.  The show has grown to the point
that it has attracted national attention in breeder circles as an outstanding example of what can be done on a local
basis in encouraging the showing of top flight cattle.   Al Ward, who has handled the local solicitation for donations
this year, reports that there has been the usual enthusiastic support from local businessmen for the free show
which brings the top Holstein cattle from Rock, Dane and Green counties here for competition.  Trophies to be
donated are on exhibit through Wednesday in the front window of Ray’s Café on Main Street.  Local men in charge
of the event include Charles Maas, general chairman, Dr. E. W. Kruger, secretary-treasurer; and Ed Zamzow,
publicity.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Miss Candace Collins, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roger Collins of Evansville , a former
student and graduate of Evansville High School is enrolled as a student of the Madison Academy of Beauty
Culture, Madison, Wis.  Upon graduation she will participate in the Wisconsin Board of Health Cosmetology
Examination in Milwaukee and receive her license.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Glenn Kruser, new physician assistant in the office of Dr. Roger S. Gray, was introduced to
the members of the Evansville Health Planning Council last week Wednesday at their regular monthly meeting held
at the Village Square.  Kruser, 28, a native of Shullsburg, has been in Evansville about three weeks.  He and his
wife, Susan, who is employed by Dr. Rhoads, a dentist in Madison, have purchased a home in the Francis
Addition.  A graduate of Shullsburg High School, he went on to the University of Wisconsin at Madison for a year
and then served in the Army for 19 months as a medic.  Following this he returned to the UW to obtain a degree in
nursing.  He was employed in Darlington by a physician and then again returned to the University to achieve his
degree as a physician assistant.
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  In order to fulfill the requirements for their Citizenship and Craftsman Badges, Webelows
Scouts Matt Reese and Joe Benson elected to build a picnic table for the Evansville Manor.  A major portion of
their fund raising for materials was achieved by collecting aluminum cans.  Overseeing the project was den leader,
Dr. Ken Reese.

10 years ago (1998):  DeEtte Eager of Evansville was a delegate for the Wisconsin Arts Board and attended the
Folk-life Festival in Washington D. C. June 24-28.  Wisconsin took center stage as part of the Festival,
commemorating its Sesquicentennial and was highlighted as the featured state of the festival.  Mrs. Eager
attended the all-day meeting on Thursday of the National Arts Board, at the home of Alice Roosevelt Longworth.  
There was a reception in the evening for Wisconsin delegates, sponsored by Wisconsin Products.  Gov.
Thompson spoke.

In Review
Fourth Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  A baptism took place at the mill pond on Sunday last, Rev. Mr. Hueling officiating.  Mr.
David Jones, Miss Pamelia O’Reilly, and Miss Anna Jones, were the candidates, and who were also received into
church fellowship by the F. W. Baptist Society.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Homer Potter returned from his Dakota trip by the train Wednesday of last week.  He is
feeling quite elated over the settlement of his boys on a good quarter section of Dakota lands and he left them to
work up a homestead.  He built a small house and set his boys to plowing for early work next Spring.  He
represents Mr. Richardson’s family as being contented and highly pleased with their new homes.  Mr. Potter got
bronzed up considerable, sailing round in search of lands among the prairies of Dakota, but he says that will wear
off now.

120 Years Ago (1888):  A Sad Accident.  Mr. Martin Brodrick was thrown from his buggy about one mile south of
this place last evening about 5:30 o’clock and killed.  He was an old settler, aged about 68 years.  DIED.  Friday
July 20th, 1888, Mr. Martin Brodrick of the town of Magnolia, by accident, aged 68 years.  The subject of this
obituary was born in Ireland in 1820; immigrated to New York in 1842, was married to Bridget Ward in 1849, moved
to Janesville in 1851 and from there upon his late farm in 1855, where he has since remained a faithful highly
respected farmer, whose word was as good as his bond.  He became the father of six children, 5 of which survive
him, a daughter Lizzie precedes him to the promised land about 17 years; his daughter Mary is happily married to
Mr. Croak living between this place and Albany; Michael is the proprietor of a successful furniture store at
Brodhead; John is a traveling salesman; James is the proprietor of our City Livery and Martin resides upon the
homestead.  The funeral was held at the homestead on Sunday, July 22, 1888 at 8:30 o’clock a.m. after which the
remains were conveyed to their last resting place in the Catholic Cemetery near Janesville.  Rev. Father Kelley of
Brodhead officiating.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Two accidents occurred on the Chicago & Northwestern railway at the North Madison
Street crossing in this city, this week, where work on the double track is being done.  Abraham McDonaldson, a
laborer, had his third finger on his left hand taken off.  N. P. Swanson, a teamster, fell beneath a dummy car in
such a manner that a bolt was driven clear through his left leg four inches below the knee and severing the artery.  
Dr. Evans and Dr. Colony dressed the limb and he was taken to his home in Chicago, where we understand the
limb was amputated.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Art Spencer has been having an unusual run of ill luck of late it seems.  Recently a
valuable Shropshire ram got a leg broken which necessitated killing, and a few days after, his dog took the rabies
and bit several hogs and cattle, what effect is hard to tell but the worst is feared.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The last week has been one of the busiest of the year for the concentration of men at the
cantonements.  All over the country the government has been calling in the last of the men in class one, and the
trains on all the railroads have been busy getting the trained men to new stations and the new men to their training
camps.  Nine young men from this city, among the last to be called, left Wednesday.  They were Oscar Leeder, Joe
Collins, George Finneran, Roscoe Haynes, Sherman Cushman, Richard Meredith, Joseph Paulson and Earl
Hopkins.  These all left in a body and there were many of their friends present at the depot to bid them farewell
and they sent the boys away with rousing cheers, regardless of how little like cheering they felt.  

80 Years Ago (1928):  Evansville again occupies first position in the race for the flag in the Southern Wisconsin
league by reason of its trimming the Milton Wolves Sunday 25 to 4.  Christianson and Parkinson for Evansville
each hit a home run.  Christianson held the Wolves helpless and at no time was he in distress.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The Badger Coach Company, one of Evansville’s newest industries is this week displaying
one of its attractive trailer coaches at the trailer show being held at Wisconsin Dells in conjunction with the annual
convention of the Wisconsin-Minnesota Automobile Tourist Association.  The coach was taken to the show
Saturday night by Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bruce and son, Mark, who operate the factory here on North Madison
Street south of the viaduct.  Mark Bruce returned Sunday evening leaving his parents there to demonstrate the
coach. The Badger Coach Company is the only Wisconsin trailer firm exhibiting products at the show which is
slated to close next Wednesday.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Three weeks of concentrated study and group practice will culminate Saturday in the all-
state band concert in the university stadium in Madison when more than 200 of the best high school musicians in
the state give their festival performance at 8 p.m.  They have been attending a three weeks band session of the
19th annual music clinic at the state university.  The following Evansville students have attended the clinic and will
play:  Ruth Krause and Beverly Amidon, clarinets, and Phyllis Rasmussen, bassoon.  It is expected that a large
number of Evansville people will attend the concert.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Lake Leota will be drained in August, the City Council voted last night.  Working with the
State Conservation Department, the city will remove both game fish and carp.  After the lake is refilled, it will be
restocked with game fish.  Necessary repairs to dams and spillways will be done while the lake is empty.  Extent of
the work won’t be known until the water is out.  Dredging to remove silt has been carried out this summer.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  Approximately 300 citizens of School Dist. No. 6 of Evansville attended the annual school
meeting held Monday night as compared with the usual 45 or 50 in attendance.  It appears that only when a
controversial issue is to be discussed and decided that most of the citizens feel it is their duty to attend the
meeting.  The budget was apparently the item on the agenda that brought out the crowd.  Board of Education
President David Fellows, carefully explained every item in the budget.  Contracts for former Supt. John Bowser who
recently consented to return to Evansville and act as consult and William Amundson, hired as acting
superintendent were disputed.  During the salary discussion, a representative of the taxpayers’ group read salary
figures of several other cities which ranged from $12,000 to $15,000 for the year 1967-1968.  Mr. Fellows read
figures from another group of cities for 1968-69 year which were in the $15,000 to $18,000 range.  Dr. Howard
Krueger, ex-board of education president, informed the voters that regardless of whether they accepted or
rejected the budget as proposed, the status of Mr. Bowser and Mr. Amundson would not be changed as their
contracts have already been signed by the board members.  The group became noisy and many walked out of the
building in protest without waiting to cast their ballots.  When the ballots were counted there were 117 to accept the
budget and 111 to reject it.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  Miss Barbara Blumstein is the new librarian in Evansville, assuming the position Mrs.
Staffeld recently retired from.  She holds a Masters degree in library science from the University of Michigan and
has been associated with the University of Wisconsin Stout at Menomonie.  She formerly resided in Elk Mound.
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  Sally Zingg of Evansville, with her newly established “Bed and Breakfast enterprise, has
joined with the cities of England, Ireland and Scotland in offering hospitality to travelers.  Her lovely home now
known as “Pine Grove” lent itself beautifully to the idea.  Formerly the Spratler house, located at 262 W. Church
Street, the house originally is one of Evansville’s oldest.  It was built by Jacob West and sons in 1864-65, in the
Civil War era, but the finishing touches were put on when John C. Andrews purchased the house in 1868.

10 years ago (1998):  Evansville folks who are participating in Oregon High School production of Kiss Me Kate are
Matt Albrecht, Michelle Patterson, J. Peter Shaw, and Elyse Albrecht.

In Review
Last Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Sunday night last, several houses in our village were entered by the light-fingered gentry
whose visits have received oft and timely admonition from our columns.  The sanctity of Dr. Smith’s sleeping
apartments were visited, his pockets rifled of some ninety dollars in money.  The house of Nelson Winston was also
entered, but the burglars were frustrated in their design by the timely awaking of his mother by whose premises the
persons gained entrance to the house.  The house of Mr. Pettigrew was also entered at the same time but the
burglars were frustrated in their attempts to steal, but some person in the house hearing footsteps, and calling out
“who’s there?” which had the effect to drive them away.  The grist mill was broken into, and some dollar and a
quarter taken from the cash drawer.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Elmer Bullard handed us a shingle the other day which contained the figures of his
wool clip for this and the past year.  He has 208 sheep.  The number of pounds of wool, new clip, is 1338; old clip,
from 144 sheep is 823 pounds, all of which he sold to Johnson & Stevens Bros. for $643.20.  He says this is the
best average yield he has seen this year.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Drs. Innis and Smith performed the difficult operation yesterday of removing a portion of a
peanut from the ear of Mr. A. H. Day’s child about 22 months old, which had remained in the ear about 6 months
and entirely destroyed the hearing of the same forever.  We can only form a faint idea of the suffering the child
must have endured during this time.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Mr. Earl Bullard, who had his left thumb and first finger badly mangled between the disk
and standard of the engine at Baldwin & Hynes feed mill two weeks ago, had to have the thumb amputated.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Miles Morgan Tullar quietly passed away Friday evening at the home of his daughter, Mrs.
Laura Taggart, aged 92 years.  Mr. Tullar was one of the pioneer settlers of Evansville, coming here in 1844, with
a young wife, and after a brief stop, purchased a farm a few miles southwest of the city, and followed the avocation
of farming till old age necessitated a rest from his labors.  M. M. Tullar was born in Cayuga county, N. Y., May 28,
1816.  In January 1842, he was united in marriage to Miss Lusbe Ann Gallop, who was a faithful and loving
companion for fifty-eight years, when she was called to her home beyond.  To this union thirteen children were
born, ten of whom are living and are:  John M.; Walter D., Fred, Earl, and Mrs. Laura Taggart all of this city, Mrs.
Emma Layton and Elmer of Eugene, Ore., Frank M. of Beach, N. Dak., Mrs. Carrie Grove, of Le Mars, Ia., and
Miles of Lennox, S. Dak.  .

90 Years Ago (1918):   The several companies of “Shock Troops” which have been organized in this city to help
the farmers shock their grain after supper in the evenings, are doing fine work and several farmers have been
made happy this week by having these bunches charge their grain fields and fix them so they will do the Kaiser as
much injury as possible.  There is quite a rivalry between the different companies and the D. E. Wood Butter Co.
claims that one of their squads, consisting of twenty-six men, charged onto a twenty-six acre field belonging to Ben
Griffeth on Wednesday evening, and in just twenty-six minutes had the field shocked.  The Grange Store Company
claims to have beaten even this record as one of their squads of fifteen men shocked thirty acres of Philip
Gransee in such a short time that they will not give it for fear people might doubt their word.  Tonight this same
squad expects to go to Elmer Rosa’s where they expect to beat all previous records.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Clarence Lamb, 35, has quietly left Evansville to permit his former wife and their 11 year old
daughter to enjoy happiness found after he left them nine years ago.  For the first time since 1919 Lamb came to
Evansville looking for his family.  The daughter, Louise, was attending school.  Before returning home he bought
her new dresses, toys, and candy, but there was no reunion with the former Mrs. Lamb.  She had obtained a
divorce and remarried.  Lamb wished the couple and his daughter happiness and left for Texas.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The city fire department was summoned Thursday afternoon to the Chicago and
Northwestern freight depot to extinguish a roof blaze believed to have originated from sparks from a passing
locomotive.  After the firemen had departed, a second blaze broke out making it necessary for the department to
return.  Only slight damage was reported.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Clarence Grundahl, formerly of Watertown, has been engaged to teach agriculture in the
Evansville high school during the coming year.  Mr. Grundahl has taught agriculture for the past ten years.  Mrs.
Grundahl and three children plan to move here as soon as living quarters are available.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Mr. and Mrs. Ora Green, Evansville, announce the approaching marriage of their daughter,
Miss Lenice Mae Perkins to Jack Covert, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Covert.  The wedding will take place Saturday,
August 16, in the First Methodist church.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Taking advantage of the summer registration-orientation program for new freshmen during
the past week at the U. of Wis. In Madison were three students from Evansville.  They are Susan Hagen, daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. Daryl Hagen, Carol Maas, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Maas, and Bonnie Parsons,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Parsons.

30 Years Ago (1978):   Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Dobbs and family have recently moved into a new home at 70
Badger Drive in Evansville.  They sold their home on S. Madison Street to Mr. and Mrs. Blumstein, who moved to
Evansville from Elk Mound.
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  K L C Queen of Wetonka 316, shown by Doug Spooner, Evansville, was named the senior
yearling champion female at the 1988 Wisconsin Angus Preview Show, Janesville.  This heifer also captured the
“owned” reserve senior yearling title in the junior show.  Doug Spooner was named president of the 1988
Wisconsin Junior Angus Association.  The new leaders were elected during the state junior Angus Preview Show.  

10 years ago (1998):  The Evansville Police Department is looking for information on a series of tire slashings that
happened during the weekend.  The Evansville Fire Department and the Evansville Police Department responded
to a gas leak on July 29 in downtown Evansville at the intersection of Main Street and Madison Street.  The area
was sealed off within one block in each direction.  Firefighters searched the building that houses T & W Liquidators
and Michaels Restaurant and shut off the gas.  The Wisconsin Gas Company said the leak came from the grill in
the restaurant.  It will remain off until the grill is fixed.n Review
First Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  To Mr. Nathaniel Blakely we are indebted for a generous quantity of the largest and finest
looking strawberries we remember to have seen produced in a northern latitude.  Some of the berries measure in
circumference over three inches and a half.  We did not learn the variety, but the berry is rich and aromatic, with
that firm and melting quality so desirable in a good strawberry.  Mr. Blakely is giving much attention to the
strawberry culture and produces a berry that is wonderfully large, delicious, and aromatic.

130 Years Ago (1878):  A quartette, and select reading by Mr. La Follette, from the Madison State University, at
Grange Hall Friday night was exhibited to a small, but appreciative audience.  Mr. La Follette is editor of the
University Press, and besides being a good reader, gets up a good paper.  [Robert M. La Follette was a frequent
visitor to Evansville, as he had attended the Evansville Seminary and had many friends in the area.]

120 Years Ago (1888):  Fritz Hanson, a boy about fourteen years of age, living a short distance north of Union,
received a dreadful wound of the left hand with slight damages to the right on Tuesday.  Mr. Christian Johnson who
brought him to Dr. Evans’ office informed us that the boy was handling a dynamite cartridge which exploded tearing
away the fore finger and thumb to the first joint of the left hand and injuring the thumb and forefinger of the right
hand badly.  We saw the hands while Drs. J. M. Evans, Sr., and Dr. W. P. Roberts were dressing them.  The whole
side of the left hand next to the thumb was terribly lacerated with the flesh literally torn into shreds making it
necessary for the Drs. to work carefully to secure sufficient skin in the proper places to take stitches to close up
the wound.  The boy being the son of a widow who needs his help badly makes his misfortune more serious.

110 Years Ago (1898):  This has been one of the most eventful days in the history of Evansville when 16 of our
brave patriotic boys took their departure for the army as follows:  Frank B. Wood, George Bidwell, Jr., George
Hammon, Frank Weaver, Frank Smith, Joseph Levzow, Harry Bagley, Robert Lang, Bert Crawford, Edwin Cole, Jr.,
Edwin Setzer, Moody Smith, George Neil, R. A. Neil, better known as Dicky Neil, L. B. Lees and Perry Clark.  When
the band gave the notice, with some of their most patriotic music, that the boys were about to start.  A large crowd
gathered upon the public square to bid them God- Speed and a safe return, but it was hard for mothers, relatives
and friends to restrain their feelings and tears flowed freely, as all realized that not all of these boys would ever
see their homes and friends again.  

100 Years Ago (1908):  Our newly organized city base ball team met and defeated the fast team known as the
Janesville Red Sox in a fast and interesting game at the fair grounds on Friday, the 26th, by a score of 5 to 1.  
Promptly at two o’clock the two teams headed by the Evansville Military Band, formed in line and started for the
battlefield.  The players were conveyed in automobiles furnished by local and visiting enthusiasts.  After the usual
warming up and the game was on.  

90 Years Ago (1918):   The D. E. Wood Butter Co. has just completed a lot of repairs on their plant in the way of a
better drainage system, lockers for the clothing of employees, new toilets, etc., and several other new features
have also been added to the plant that will have a tendency to make it a better place for employees to work and
will also result in an increased production of the plant.  This plant is now turning out a carload of butter every day,
June being the banner butter month.  It is expected that they will start the manufacture of oleomargarine the first of
September.

80 Years Ago (1928):  The directors of the holding committee of the Evansville Fair grounds which recently
purchased the grounds of the late Evansville Rock County Fair Association, met Monday evening and the following
officers were elected:  President R. M. Antes; Secretary Zala Miller; Treasurer L. L. Thompson.  It is stated that
fully eighty per cent of the stock holders of the old association have pledged themselves to give their shares to the
city, if the city will pay off this indebtedness, so as to let the grounds become the property of the people of
Evansville to be used for athletic and social and recreational purposes.

70 Years Ago (1938):  John Gardner Babcock, 93, Evansville’s last surviving Civil War veteran and his son,
Richard Babcock, Janesville, returned from Gettysburg, Pa., where they had been attending the reunion of the
Blue and the Gray on the same field where the old vets locked in combat 75 years ago.   Mr. Babcock was born in
Johnstown, Rock County, Oct. 14, 1844.  He enlisted in the Civil War at Janesville July 31, 1961 and was mustered
out at Nashville, Tenn., Nov. 19, 1864.  He was a member of Company B of the 13th Wisconsin Infantry.

60 Years Ago (1948):  The Rev. James Saunders and family recently moved to Evansville from Fennimore and are
now residing in the Methodist church parsonage.  The Rev. Mr. Saunders is the new pastor in the church here
following his graduation from the Northwestern University, Evanston, Ill., with a degree of Bachelor of Divinity.  The
pastor was born in Litherland, Liverpool, Eng., and became an ordained minister in his mother country before
coming to American in 1937.  He is a naturalized citizen of the United States.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Patsy Gilbert, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gilbert, who live near Brooklyn, has been
elected 4th of G. I. Queen for 1958.  Six other girls who were chosen to be members of the court are:  Miss Klee
Ashbaugh, Pamela Shannon, Susan Petterson, Darlene Muchow, Diane Propst and Sharon Slater.  The queen
and her court will ride in the 4th of G. I. parade on the float decorated by the American Legion Auxiliary.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The Rev. Joseph Brechtl has arrived in Evansville and has assumed his duties as pastor of
St. Paul Catholic Church succeeding the Rev. James Kramer, who has moved to Madison.  The Rev. Mr. Brchtl has
been pastor of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Verona the past 14 years and also served St. William’s Mission at
Paoli.  He is a native of Plain, Wis.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Miss Terri Ann Thornton, daughter of Mrs. Rex Thornton, 43 N. Madison Street, Evansville
and Daniel Lawrence Weaver, son of Mr. and Mrs. Donald L. Weaver, 44 N. Madison Street, Evansville, exchanged
wedding vows at a 3:30 p.m. ceremony on June 10, 1978.  Rev. Tim Kehl officiated at the Congregational Church
of Christ, at the altar decorated with bouquets of blue and white carnations, daisies, and statice with English ivy.  
The bride is a graduate of Evansville High School and is employed at the State Medical Society in Madison.  The
groom, also a graduate of Evansville High School, is employed by GMAD in Janesville.  Following a trip to
Wisconsin Dells the couple is now making their home at 61 Fifth Street in Evansville.
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  Evansville and Lake Leota are not unfamiliar to Father Robert Hughes, who has come to
serve his first pastorate at St. Paul’s Catholic Church here.  Lake Leota Park was as well known in his childhood as
was Palmer Park in his native Janesville.  Rose Cullen, a great aunt, lived in Evansville.  Father Hughes has toured
the U. S. on a bicycle.  Evansville area people may remember his father, Larry Hughes, of Janesville, who had
Brown and Hughes Implement Co., the John Deere dealer, which became McNall’s.  

10 years ago (1998):  A tornado touched town Thursday night between Fox and Eagle-Roherty Roads on both
sides of Highway 14 at about 7:05 p.m.  No one was reported injured.  The homes of several families were in the
direct path of one confirmed tornado and possibly a second one joining the first.  Of the seven homes in the area
of the tornado, three could not be reclaimed.  Homes and families in the path of the storm were Joel and Kathy
Gunn, Karl and Harriet Lindroth, Ron Hansons, Nancy Erdman, Gary Eggers, Dick and Linda Sanwick and Virgil
and Evelyn Ripp.

In Review
Second Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  MARRIED.  At the residence of the bride’s mother in Evansville, on the evening of July 4th,
by Rev. A. H. Hueling, Mr. George W. Palmer and Miss Ursula C. Newton, both of Evansville.  At the Free Will
Baptist parsonage by the same on July 4th, Henry D. Lockwood and Emma Tolles of Union.  

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Thomas O’Reilly, of whom we mentioned last week as having suffered the fracture of
his thigh, died at 11 o’clock Sunday, A. m.  He was an old man, and the fracture of a limb was more than his
constitution could bear.  He was buried Monday from his late residence.

120 Years Ago (1888):  We learn that little Ray Clifford, son of Mr. Charles Clifford was quite seriously burned
while the fire works were being exploded by being under the stand which was built for the latter purpose.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Frank Smith, Joseph Levzow and Edwin Cole became faint hearted and returned home.  
Edwin Setzer, Moody Smith, R.A. Neil, and L. B. Lees failed to pass the physical examination.  All the rest entered
the service.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The annual school meeting of this school district was held Monday evening and was
attended by about forty people, one-half of whom were ladies.  The treasurer’s report showed a surplus of $508.15
in the school fund and $88.11 in the library fund.  In the budget for 1908-9, it was deemed necessary to raise
some $11,552.27 for current expenses, and in addition a further sum of not to exceed one thousand dollars for fire
escapes on the two buildings.  The free text book question was voted negatively.  In the election of officers, P. C.
Wilder was re-elected to the office of clerk.  O. S. Shepard to succeed himself and Mrs. E. Gabriel to take the place
of Mrs. Gertrude Eager, whose term of office expired.

90 Years Ago (1918):  The Garden Canning Co. this week placed on their boiler a $40 whistle that can make a
thousand dollars worth of noise in one day; at least it sounds like a thousand dollars when it calls three different
shifts to work that are filling the full twenty-four hours of the working time at the factory.  Whistles like this, and lots
of them, is what makes a town, when they call lots of workers to their daily tasks at good wages.  To show the
condition of the iron and steel market, it is only necessary to state that this whistle was ordered last winter and was
only delivered this week.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Evansville needs the fairgrounds for the comfort and convenience of her surrounding
townships, like Union, Porter, Magnolia and Center, who often have celebrations which they wish to stage where
they can be safe from rain or storm in case the weather changes and where there is a ball diamond and track.  
Since the township play day and 4-H Club movements have become so popular, grounds of this kind are almost
essential to any town and Evansville is glad that she has something of the kind to offer the farmers and their
families, when they need them.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Two new windows recently purchased and installed in the Cooksville Lutheran church will be
dedicated by the Rev. Theodore Heimark, pastor, at the regular morning service next Sunday.  The window
depicting the scene of the Nativity was purchased by the children of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Haakenson and will be
dedicated in honor of their parents.  The window scene of the Resurrection is a gift of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Kjernes.  
Featuring the dedication service will be a vocal solo by Hans Haakenson, Jr. accompanied at the piano by Mrs.
Theodore Hatlen, church pianist.  The Cooksville church was completely remodeled and redecorated last spring
and was equipped with an attractive new altar, new pews, and other attractive furnishings.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Miss Arlene Miller was chosen queen of the Evansville 4-H Club at a preliminary contest
meeting held in the city hall last Friday evening.  The other contestants were Mrs. Alma Dunbar Schultis and the
Misses Ruth Krause, LaVena Tronnes, Harriette Clark, Viola Steindl and Harriet Tadder.  The judges were Mrs. R.
L. Collins, Mrs. L. L. Thompson and Miss Jane Crow.  They based their decision on appearance, personality,
health and 4-H records.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Captain Raymond G. Lawry, son of Mrs. Charles E. Lawry of 42 Montgomery Court, has
been awarded the wings of a senior pilot by the United States Air Force.  Captain Lawry is general Myers’ aide-de-
camp.  The general, commander of the Air training Command, with headquarters at Randolph AFB, Texas,
presented his aide with the wings in an informal ceremony at ATC headquarters.

40 Years Ago (1968):  There was a train wreck early Wednesday morning about one and one-half miles north of
the city.  Seven ballast hopper cars and one box car were derailed and strewn along about one quarter mile of the
railroad bed.  The hopper cars were loaded with ballast and the box car was carrying a minimum load of furnace
filters.  The train was southbound.  The cars were tipped over and some were on one side of the track and some
on the opposite side.  Transportation was laid up only a few hours because there is a siding track extending up
that far on which the trains could pass the wreckage.   

30 Years Ago (1978):  Jim Patterson, Gordon Kazda, Hazel Thompson and Dave Turner will take part in the 5th
annual Arts and Crafts Fair of the Spectrum Art Club of Brodhead on this weekend.  
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  The Patton M-47 tank was brought into Evansville last Saturday morning by members of the
Monroe National Guard.  Some two hours were spent in transporting and setting the tank into its permanent place
in the park, to be dedicated on July 4th.  On the Fourth, a huge crowd gathered for the ceremony, attended by
several dignitaries, including Congressman Less Aspin, who was instrument in helping the Evansville contingent
obtain the tank.  The tank now stands at the entrance to the park.  

10 years ago (1998):  At the June 29 meeting of the Evansville Board of Education, Dr. Gary Albrecht was
appointed to the newly created position of Assistant District Administrator.  Albrecht is also the principal of Levi-
Leonard Elementary School, a position he will retain.  Albrecht wears many hats, including the district assessment
coordinator and managing the adult crossing guards.  He also serves on the state board for the assessment and
supervision of curriculum.

In Review
Third Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  We call attention to the advertisement of Village property for sale, in this issue of the
Citizen.  The property is favorably and pleasantly situated and can be had at a bargain.  Poor health is the plea for
selling.  Mr. Johnson finds the bracing air of the Rocky Mountains an inducement to sell his property here, even at
a sacrifice of its real value, and remove with his family West.  Village Property For Sale.  A dwelling house and lots,
containing some 10 rods of frontage on Church Street, nearly opposite the F. W. Baptist Church.  The property is
held at low figures and on terms that will suit purchasers—a small portion down and the balance on time.  In
connection, I will sell 80 acres of marsh situated 1½ miles South of Evansville.  For particulars, inquire at the
premises.  Frank Johnson, Evansville, July 16, 1868.

130 Years Ago (1878):  A sulky horse rake, tobacco cultivator and spinning wheel will be sold at a bargain.  C. M.
Morehouse.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Died, July 11, 1888, Mrs. M. L. Tuttle, aged 76 years.  Her disease was a general wearing
out by old age.  She and her husband have lived with their son Charles upon their old homestead farm about two
and one-half miles northeast of this place.  The above named son lost his wife but a short time since and will be
doubly grieved over the loss of his kind old mother, who has been one of the most highly respected in their
neighborhood, always kind and accommodating to all.  The funeral was held at the house Thursday, Rev. E. R.
Curry officiating clergyman, Potter & Hartley undertakers.  [Note:  According to Maple Hill Index records, this was
Mariah L. Pitts Tuttle, Aug. 21 1812 - July 11, 1888, wife of Jonathan Tuttle.]

110 Years Ago (1898)   A society for doing work that may be helpful to the soldiers in camp, field or hospital, has
been organized and a meeting for the appointment of working committee will be held in the Public Library rooms on
Thursday evening July 14 at seven o’clock.  The ladies of Evansville vicnity are cordially invited to be present.  
Pearl H. Campbell, President.

100 Years Ago (1908):  George W. Hall, the veteran showman, received two lion cubs from Iowa parties, Saturday,
which he has added to his collection of wild beasts, on his farm, just south of this city.  These cubs will probably
weighed twenty-five pounds apiece, and were vicious little cusses when seen in their box at the express office.  
Cub lions are rare to secure and their value in dollars and cents runs into money fast.  Anyhow we are not over
anxious regarding these cubs as pets.

90 Years Ago (1918):  Theodore Johnson, the thirteen –year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Ole Johnson, who live near
Union, died the first of the week and was buried at Cooksville.  The deceased had been sick for some time and was
a brother of Ben Johnson, a member of Co. M. who died at Waco, Texas, last winter.

80 Years Ago (1928):  In recent years there has been such a demand from the farm districts for electrical service
on the farm that every farmer who puts electric power on his farm must sooner or later throw out all his gasoline
equipment and replace it with motor driven machinery.  This has created such a demand for motor driven pumps
and jacks which would not only pump water for stock but will force it to some distance to fill high tanks or to irrigate
gardens and lawns.  To meet this demand, the Baker Manufacturing Co., which has been building the Monitor Line
of pumping mills and engines for many years have recently placed upon the market both an electric jack and an
electric pump.  The jack is made to accommodate those who still wish to use their own pumps, the pump being
driven by gears run by an attached electric motor, which takes the place of the gasoline engine of former years.  
The electrical pump is a compact power plant, which has all the working parts enclosed so that it is dirt and
waterproof.  When desired, the pump can also be furnished with a belt driven motor, the motor being placed
several feet from the pump.  This company is now getting out circulars regarding these new features in the Baker
products, which they will send to their agents all over the country and it is thought that there will be a good demand
for them, as it is stated that they are exceptionally well made and give excellent results.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The WPA project submitted for the erection of a shelter house in Leonard park with funds
donated by Stacia and Richard Henneberry has been approved and work on the building is slated to start about
July 28, it was announced this morning by R. J. Antes, local WPA administrator.  The project includes not only the
erection of the shelter house, but the completion of the stream rip-rapping in the park and the filling in of the low
areas.  The Henneberrys presented the city with a gift of $600 to be used in the erection of a park shelter house
last December and it was decided at that time that the building be known as the Henneberry Memorial.  The offer
was later submitted to the mayor and city council at a special meeting at which the gift was accepted.   

60 Years Ago (1948):  Miss Patricia Hensel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hensel, who represented Evansville at
the Badger Girls State camp in Madison last month, was elected a member of the assembly.  Chadbourne Hall on
the campus was the home of the campers for the week.  Miss Hensel was sponsored by the Evansville American
Legion Auxiliary.

50 Years Ago (1958):   With  375-400 entries expected to be on hand here Thursday, the annual Tri-County Black
and White Show this year is expected to be the best yet in this popular series.  The show has grown to the point
that it has attracted national attention in breeder circles as an outstanding example of what can be done on a local
basis in encouraging the showing of top flight cattle.   Al Ward, who has handled the local solicitation for donations
this year, reports that there has been the usual enthusiastic support from local businessmen for the free show
which brings the top Holstein cattle from Rock, Dane and Green counties here for competition.  Trophies to be
donated are on exhibit through Wednesday in the front window of Ray’s Café on Main Street.  Local men in charge
of the event include Charles Maas, general chairman, Dr. E. W. Kruger, secretary-treasurer; and Ed Zamzow,
publicity.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Miss Candace Collins, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roger Collins of Evansville , a former
student and graduate of Evansville High School is enrolled as a student of the Madison Academy of Beauty
Culture, Madison, Wis.  Upon graduation she will participate in the Wisconsin Board of Health Cosmetology
Examination in Milwaukee and receive her license.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Glenn Kruser, new physician assistant in the office of Dr. Roger S. Gray, was introduced to
the members of the Evansville Health Planning Council last week Wednesday at their regular monthly meeting held
at the Village Square.  Kruser, 28, a native of Shullsburg, has been in Evansville about three weeks.  He and his
wife, Susan, who is employed by Dr. Rhoads, a dentist in Madison, have purchased a home in the Francis
Addition.  A graduate of Shullsburg High School, he went on to the University of Wisconsin at Madison for a year
and then served in the Army for 19 months as a medic.  Following this he returned to the UW to obtain a degree in
nursing.  He was employed in Darlington by a physician and then again returned to the University to achieve his
degree as a physician assistant.
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20 Years Ago (1988):  In order to fulfill the requirements for their Citizenship and Craftsman Badges, Webelows
Scouts Matt Reese and Joe Benson elected to build a picnic table for the Evansville Manor.  A major portion of
their fund raising for materials was achieved by collecting aluminum cans.  Overseeing the project was den leader,
Dr. Ken Reese.

10 years ago (1998):  DeEtte Eager of Evansville was a delegate for the Wisconsin Arts Board and attended the
Folk-life Festival in Washington D. C. June 24-28.  Wisconsin took center stage as part of the Festival,
commemorating its Sesquicentennial and was highlighted as the featured state of the festival.  Mrs. Eager
attended the all-day meeting on Thursday of the National Arts Board, at the home of Alice Roosevelt Longworth.  
There was a reception in the evening for Wisconsin delegates, sponsored by Wisconsin Products.  Gov.
Thompson spoke.

In Review
Fourth Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  A baptism took place at the mill pond on Sunday last, Rev. Mr. Hueling officiating.  Mr.
David Jones, Miss Pamelia O’Reilly, and Miss Anna Jones, were the candidates, and who were also received into
church fellowship by the F. W. Baptist Society.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Homer Potter returned from his Dakota trip by the train Wednesday of last week.  He is
feeling quite elated over the settlement of his boys on a good quarter section of Dakota lands and he left them to
work up a homestead.  He built a small house and set his boys to plowing for early work next Spring.  He
represents Mr. Richardson’s family as being contented and highly pleased with their new homes.  Mr. Potter got
bronzed up considerable, sailing round in search of lands among the prairies of Dakota, but he says that will wear
off now.

120 Years Ago (1888):  A Sad Accident.  Mr. Martin Brodrick was thrown from his buggy about one mile south of
this place last evening about 5:30 o’clock and killed.  He was an old settler, aged about 68 years.  DIED.  Friday
July 20th, 1888, Mr. Martin Brodrick of the town of Magnolia, by accident, aged 68 years.  The subject of this
obituary was born in Ireland in 1820; immigrated to New York in 1842, was married to Bridget Ward in 1849, moved
to Janesville in 1851 and from there upon his late farm in 1855, where he has since remained a faithful highly
respected farmer, whose word was as good as his bond.  He became the father of six children, 5 of which survive
him, a daughter Lizzie precedes him to the promised land about 17 years; his daughter Mary is happily married to
Mr. Croak living between this place and Albany; Michael is the proprietor of a successful furniture store at
Brodhead; John is a traveling salesman; James is the proprietor of our City Livery and Martin resides upon the
homestead.  The funeral was held at the homestead on Sunday, July 22, 1888 at 8:30 o’clock a.m. after which the
remains were conveyed to their last resting place in the Catholic Cemetery near Janesville.  Rev. Father Kelley of
Brodhead officiating.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Two accidents occurred on the Chicago & Northwestern railway at the North Madison
Street crossing in this city, this week, where work on the double track is being done.  Abraham McDonaldson, a
laborer, had his third finger on his left hand taken off.  N. P. Swanson, a teamster, fell beneath a dummy car in
such a manner that a bolt was driven clear through his left leg four inches below the knee and severing the artery.  
Dr. Evans and Dr. Colony dressed the limb and he was taken to his home in Chicago, where we understand the
limb was amputated.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Art Spencer has been having an unusual run of ill luck of late it seems.  Recently a
valuable Shropshire ram got a leg broken which necessitated killing, and a few days after, his dog took the rabies
and bit several hogs and cattle, what effect is hard to tell but the worst is feared.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The last week has been one of the busiest of the year for the concentration of men at the
cantonements.  All over the country the government has been calling in the last of the men in class one, and the
trains on all the railroads have been busy getting the trained men to new stations and the new men to their training
camps.  Nine young men from this city, among the last to be called, left Wednesday.  They were Oscar Leeder, Joe
Collins, George Finneran, Roscoe Haynes, Sherman Cushman, Richard Meredith, Joseph Paulson and Earl
Hopkins.  These all left in a body and there were many of their friends present at the depot to bid them farewell
and they sent the boys away with rousing cheers, regardless of how little like cheering they felt.  

80 Years Ago (1928):  Evansville again occupies first position in the race for the flag in the Southern Wisconsin
league by reason of its trimming the Milton Wolves Sunday 25 to 4.  Christianson and Parkinson for Evansville
each hit a home run.  Christianson held the Wolves helpless and at no time was he in distress.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The Badger Coach Company, one of Evansville’s newest industries is this week displaying
one of its attractive trailer coaches at the trailer show being held at Wisconsin Dells in conjunction with the annual
convention of the Wisconsin-Minnesota Automobile Tourist Association.  The coach was taken to the show
Saturday night by Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bruce and son, Mark, who operate the factory here on North Madison
Street south of the viaduct.  Mark Bruce returned Sunday evening leaving his parents there to demonstrate the
coach. The Badger Coach Company is the only Wisconsin trailer firm exhibiting products at the show which is
slated to close next Wednesday.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Three weeks of concentrated study and group practice will culminate Saturday in the all-
state band concert in the university stadium in Madison when more than 200 of the best high school musicians in
the state give their festival performance at 8 p.m.  They have been attending a three weeks band session of the
19th annual music clinic at the state university.  The following Evansville students have attended the clinic and will
play:  Ruth Krause and Beverly Amidon, clarinets, and Phyllis Rasmussen, bassoon.  It is expected that a large
number of Evansville people will attend the concert.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Lake Leota will be drained in August, the City Council voted last night.  Working with the
State Conservation Department, the city will remove both game fish and carp.  After the lake is refilled, it will be
restocked with game fish.  Necessary repairs to dams and spillways will be done while the lake is empty.  Extent of
the work won’t be known until the water is out.  Dredging to remove silt has been carried out this summer.  

40 Years Ago (1968):  Approximately 300 citizens of School Dist. No. 6 of Evansville attended the annual school
meeting held Monday night as compared with the usual 45 or 50 in attendance.  It appears that only when a
controversial issue is to be discussed and decided that most of the citizens feel it is their duty to attend the
meeting.  The budget was apparently the item on the agenda that brought out the crowd.  Board of Education
President David Fellows, carefully explained every item in the budget.  Contracts for former Supt. John Bowser who
recently consented to return to Evansville and act as consult and William Amundson, hired as acting
superintendent were disputed.  During the salary discussion, a representative of the taxpayers’ group read salary
figures of several other cities which ranged from $12,000 to $15,000 for the year 1967-1968.  Mr. Fellows read
figures from another group of cities for 1968-69 year which were in the $15,000 to $18,000 range.  Dr. Howard
Krueger, ex-board of education president, informed the voters that regardless of whether they accepted or
rejected the budget as proposed, the status of Mr. Bowser and Mr. Amundson would not be changed as their
contracts have already been signed by the board members.  The group became noisy and many walked out of the
building in protest without waiting to cast their ballots.  When the ballots were counted there were 117 to accept the
budget and 111 to reject it.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  Miss Barbara Blumstein is the new librarian in Evansville, assuming the position Mrs.
Staffeld recently retired from.  She holds a Masters degree in library science from the University of Michigan and
has been associated with the University of Wisconsin Stout at Menomonie.  She formerly resided in Elk Mound.
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  Sally Zingg of Evansville, with her newly established “Bed and Breakfast enterprise, has
joined with the cities of England, Ireland and Scotland in offering hospitality to travelers.  Her lovely home now
known as “Pine Grove” lent itself beautifully to the idea.  Formerly the Spratler house, located at 262 W. Church
Street, the house originally is one of Evansville’s oldest.  It was built by Jacob West and sons in 1864-65, in the
Civil War era, but the finishing touches were put on when John C. Andrews purchased the house in 1868.

10 years ago (1998):  Evansville folks who are participating in Oregon High School production of Kiss Me Kate are
Matt Albrecht, Michelle Patterson, J. Peter Shaw, and Elyse Albrecht.

In Review
Last Week of July 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Sunday night last, several houses in our village were entered by the light-fingered gentry
whose visits have received oft and timely admonition from our columns.  The sanctity of Dr. Smith’s sleeping
apartments were visited, his pockets rifled of some ninety dollars in money.  The house of Nelson Winston was also
entered, but the burglars were frustrated in their design by the timely awaking of his mother by whose premises the
persons gained entrance to the house.  The house of Mr. Pettigrew was also entered at the same time but the
burglars were frustrated in their attempts to steal, but some person in the house hearing footsteps, and calling out
“who’s there?” which had the effect to drive them away.  The grist mill was broken into, and some dollar and a
quarter taken from the cash drawer.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Elmer Bullard handed us a shingle the other day which contained the figures of his
wool clip for this and the past year.  He has 208 sheep.  The number of pounds of wool, new clip, is 1338; old clip,
from 144 sheep is 823 pounds, all of which he sold to Johnson & Stevens Bros. for $643.20.  He says this is the
best average yield he has seen this year.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Drs. Innis and Smith performed the difficult operation yesterday of removing a portion of a
peanut from the ear of Mr. A. H. Day’s child about 22 months old, which had remained in the ear about 6 months
and entirely destroyed the hearing of the same forever.  We can only form a faint idea of the suffering the child
must have endured during this time.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Mr. Earl Bullard, who had his left thumb and first finger badly mangled between the disk
and standard of the engine at Baldwin & Hynes feed mill two weeks ago, had to have the thumb amputated.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Miles Morgan Tullar quietly passed away Friday evening at the home of his daughter, Mrs.
Laura Taggart, aged 92 years.  Mr. Tullar was one of the pioneer settlers of Evansville, coming here in 1844, with
a young wife, and after a brief stop, purchased a farm a few miles southwest of the city, and followed the avocation
of farming till old age necessitated a rest from his labors.  M. M. Tullar was born in Cayuga county, N. Y., May 28,
1816.  In January 1842, he was united in marriage to Miss Lusbe Ann Gallop, who was a faithful and loving
companion for fifty-eight years, when she was called to her home beyond.  To this union thirteen children were
born, ten of whom are living and are:  John M.; Walter D., Fred, Earl, and Mrs. Laura Taggart all of this city, Mrs.
Emma Layton and Elmer of Eugene, Ore., Frank M. of Beach, N. Dak., Mrs. Carrie Grove, of Le Mars, Ia., and
Miles of Lennox, S. Dak.  .

90 Years Ago (1918):   The several companies of “Shock Troops” which have been organized in this city to help
the farmers shock their grain after supper in the evenings, are doing fine work and several farmers have been
made happy this week by having these bunches charge their grain fields and fix them so they will do the Kaiser as
much injury as possible.  There is quite a rivalry between the different companies and the D. E. Wood Butter Co.
claims that one of their squads, consisting of twenty-six men, charged onto a twenty-six acre field belonging to Ben
Griffeth on Wednesday evening, and in just twenty-six minutes had the field shocked.  The Grange Store Company
claims to have beaten even this record as one of their squads of fifteen men shocked thirty acres of Philip
Gransee in such a short time that they will not give it for fear people might doubt their word.  Tonight this same
squad expects to go to Elmer Rosa’s where they expect to beat all previous records.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Clarence Lamb, 35, has quietly left Evansville to permit his former wife and their 11 year old
daughter to enjoy happiness found after he left them nine years ago.  For the first time since 1919 Lamb came to
Evansville looking for his family.  The daughter, Louise, was attending school.  Before returning home he bought
her new dresses, toys, and candy, but there was no reunion with the former Mrs. Lamb.  She had obtained a
divorce and remarried.  Lamb wished the couple and his daughter happiness and left for Texas.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The city fire department was summoned Thursday afternoon to the Chicago and
Northwestern freight depot to extinguish a roof blaze believed to have originated from sparks from a passing
locomotive.  After the firemen had departed, a second blaze broke out making it necessary for the department to
return.  Only slight damage was reported.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Clarence Grundahl, formerly of Watertown, has been engaged to teach agriculture in the
Evansville high school during the coming year.  Mr. Grundahl has taught agriculture for the past ten years.  Mrs.
Grundahl and three children plan to move here as soon as living quarters are available.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Mr. and Mrs. Ora Green, Evansville, announce the approaching marriage of their daughter,
Miss Lenice Mae Perkins to Jack Covert, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Covert.  The wedding will take place Saturday,
August 16, in the First Methodist church.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Taking advantage of the summer registration-orientation program for new freshmen during
the past week at the U. of Wis. In Madison were three students from Evansville.  They are Susan Hagen, daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. Daryl Hagen, Carol Maas, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Maas, and Bonnie Parsons,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Parsons.

30 Years Ago (1978):   Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Dobbs and family have recently moved into a new home at 70
Badger Drive in Evansville.  They sold their home on S. Madison Street to Mr. and Mrs. Blumstein, who moved to
Evansville from Elk Mound.
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20 Years Ago (1988):  K L C Queen of Wetonka 316, shown by Doug Spooner, Evansville, was named the senior
yearling champion female at the 1988 Wisconsin Angus Preview Show, Janesville.  This heifer also captured the
“owned” reserve senior yearling title in the junior show.  Doug Spooner was named president of the 1988
Wisconsin Junior Angus Association.  The new leaders were elected during the state junior Angus Preview Show.  

10 years ago (1998):  The Evansville Police Department is looking for information on a series of tire slashings that
happened during the weekend.  The Evansville Fire Department and the Evansville Police Department responded
to a gas leak on July 29 in downtown Evansville at the intersection of Main Street and Madison Street.  The area
was sealed off within one block in each direction.  Firefighters searched the building that houses T & W Liquidators
and Michaels Restaurant and shut off the gas.  The Wisconsin Gas Company said the leak came from the grill in
the restaurant.  It will remain off until the grill is fixed.

In Review
First Week of August 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  At the regular Band meeting last Thursday evening the following officers were elected:  
For President, J. R. West; Vice President, J. C. Frederick; Secretary, J. W. West; Treasurer, Cyrus Preston;
Janitor, Charles Pullen.  After which A. S. Baker was chosen Captain of the band.  Adjourned one week.

130 Years Ago (1878):  In a conversation with Mr. I. M. Brink, tenant of Daniel Johnson’s farm, respecting his
crops, states that a field of oats sown the 13th  of March will yield 65 bushels to the acre.  He seldom has seen a
finer straw or more evenly balanced field of oats in his life.  A field of wheat sown about the 19th of March, is some
what rusted, but will go 15 bushels to the acre—just about 2/3d of a crop.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Little Clarence Rossiter, who has been sick since the fourth, died Sunday night at 12 o’
clock.  The disease was typhoid fever.  His remains were taken to Rockford, this Tuesday afternoon for burial.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Emily Allison Smith died in this city, Aug 6, 1898.  She was born in Center County, Pa., in
1826, with her parents moved to Venango County in the same state where she married David Smith in 1847, who
preceded her to the better land four years ago.  In 1867 they moved to Wisconsin and located on a farm two miles
east of this city where they resided until her death.  Ten children were born to them six sons and four daughters,
eight of whom are left to mourn the loss of a kind Christian Mother, Mrs. Hiram Ballard, Lydia Smith, Will Smith and
Peter Smith, of Evansville, Mrs. Gifford, of Janesville, Hiram and Harrison of Edgerton and Mrs. Newell of Albany.  
She and her husband joined the M.E. church in 1879.  She was a faithful worker in the Church and Missionary
Society.  Her one great comfort was doing for her loved ones.  She was a kind neighbor, beloved by all in the
society in which she moved.  Thus she has been born to the one whom she knew so well.  The funeral will be held
from the late residence of the deceased on Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The baseball team of Evansville won from Clinton in a game played here this afternoon by
a score of 9 to 8.  It was a very loosely played game, there being lots of errors on both sides.  Clinton gained force
by two trolley leaguers.  C. C. Broughton played his first game of the season and was easily the star of the game,
making three hits four times up, his batting winning the victory for Evansville.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Word has been received from “somewhere in France” that Willis Decker is in a hospital
suffering from a broken leg caused by a collision while riding a motorcycle after dark.  No lights being allowed after
dark makes traffic very dangerous.

80 Years Ago (1928):  The three sons of Mr. and Mrs. Grant Howard, of the town of Magnolia aged 13, 11 and ten
years had a narrow escape yesterday at noon when their Ford truck which they were driving to town stalled on the
railroad crossing east of town just as the noon passenger was coming in from Janesville.  The boys however, had
the presence of mind to jump clear of the truck before it was struck, thus saving their lives, without doubt, as the
truck was entirely demolished.

70 Years Ago (1938):  To accommodate farmers and other Evansville visitors who drive to the city Saturday
evenings for shopping and other business transactions, a group of business men has graded and oiled the vacant
lots on North Madison street at the rear of the Main Garage for use as a parking area.  The grounds, which were
donated for parking facilities by Lee Main, operator of the Main Garage, will accommodate approximately 50 cars.  
Officer Fred Sanders of the local police department has been engaged to serve as traffic officer and to guard the
parked cars every Saturday night from the supper hour through the closing time of Evansville stores.  The
Evansville merchants who are maintaining the parking area are Carr’s Grocery, Kroger’s Store, Taplin’s City
market and Grocery, Bliven’s Royal Blue Food store, Smith’s Quality Market, Collins’ Srug store, Rex Theatre,
Putnam’s Bootery, and Loomis Electric.

60 Years Ago (1948):  At a special meeting of the American Legion held Monday evening, the organization voted
to purchase the Fisher building on the corner of East Main and Maple Street.  The building is a three story
structure with the Dixon and Sperry barber shop and Petterson and Sarow plumbing and heating business on the
first floor, the Rec on the second floor and the Waucoma Grange rooms on the top floor.  The Legion plans to use
only the second floor where the Rec is now located.  [Note:  this building is at 19 East Main, the current location of
the Night Owl.]

50 Years Ago (1958):  A family which has played a prominent part in Evansville affairs for many years had its
summer reunion at Leota park here Sunday, July 26.  Madison and Janesville members of the Finnane family
joined the Evansville group at the reunion.  Attending the family picnic from Madison were Mr. and Mrs. Harold
Donahue and family, Nellie Finnane, Mrs. Catherine Hampel and children, Brownie Finnane, and Mickey Finnane.  
From Janesville were Mr. and Mrs. Jim Conway and family and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Meredith, Jr., and family.  The
Evansville group included Mr. and Mrs. Richard Meredith, Sr., Mr. and Mrs. George Kelly and family, Mrs. Juliette
Meredith and family, Dan Finnane, Pat and Jim, and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Finnane and family.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Once again, the annual Baptist Auction held on Saturday, July 27 proved to be a big
success.  Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Christiansen and family found themselves richer by one antique organ, which was
brought into the auction by the Stiklestad family of Brooklyn.  The organ, which is in excellent playing condition has
already brought a lot of fun to the new owners it has been reported.  This year, Paul George, who has completed
his studies in auctioneering and is now associated with his well-known auctioneer father, Dean George, was on
hand to auction the items this year.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Mr. and Mrs. Ken Reese and children, Matthew 2, Amanda three months, and Mrs. Reese’s
sister Jo Farley, a pharmacy student at the University of Iowa traveled to the National Veterinarians Convention in
Dallas.  They were gone from July 16 to 21.  While in Dallas they shopped at the Market Place of the States which
were booths from the auxiliaries of each state.  The money from the sale of the items goes toward the student loan
fund.
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20 Years Ago (1988):  Debra Haas, Evansville, was one of 231 Beloit College students who received degrees from
the college at the end of the school year.  Deb graduated Magna Cum Laude and received the Bachelor of Arts
degree in International Relations and Spanish with Department Honors.  She was the recipient of the “Warren
Miller Blue Skies Award” and the “Ruth Colman Peterson Prize in Government or International Relations Award.”  
She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John L. Haas of Evansville.

10 years ago (1998):  Maude Shoemaker noted her 102nd birthday at the Kelly House in Evansville where she
resides.  Maude Porter Shoemaker was born in Evansville in 1896, the daughter of Isaac and Ethel Van Vleck
Porter.  She was raised on the family farm on Porter Road in Union Township.  She graduated from Evansville High
School and the Music Conservatory of Evansville.  She received a degree in Economics from the University of
Wisconsin in 1921.  Maude married Milton J. Shoemaker in 1922 and they had one child, Milton J. Jr.  Both are
deceased.  She is a current member of the Eastern Star, DAR, Society of Mayflower Descendants and Bascom Hill
Society.  A lifelong member of the Evansville Congregational Church, a Badger and Packer fan, and a supporter of
the University of Wisconsin, she keeps up on these activities.  Her husband, Milton, invented the Culligan Water
Softener and April Aire Furnaces.  


In Review
Second Week of August 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The Committee appointed to circulate subscriptions for the purpose of raising $7,000 to
remove the old claims against the Evansville Seminary, for repairs and a new building, have canvassed the village
and have now secured some $3,000.  There are some business men and several property holders who have as
yet, taken no interest in the matter.  Should these do as liberally as those who have subscribed, the enterprise
would be secured.  And should the enterprise fail, on those men the responsibility must rest.  The sacrifice in
property to them would be many times the amount required to make up the deficiency.  Unless the necessary
amount is soon pledged there can be no Fall term, which would be a great calamity to the Seminary and to the
village.  Some excuse themselves that they may sell and leave the place.  If it is their design or wish to do so,
nothing could more effectually defeat their doing so without loss, than the failure of the Seminary to go ahead.  It is
to be hoped that those who have not taken hold of this matter will come to the rescue before Ichabod is inscribed
on the Village and Seminary.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Nine heavy teams, besides some smaller ones, carry milk to Devereux’s factory daily,
Sundays and all.  Mr. Cook, who passes our office daily from Magnolia, says he carries 2000 pounds, and the
other teams are loaded about the same.  We understand that Mr. Devereux has already made as much cheese as
he did in the whole season last year.  [Note:  The Devereux cheese factory was located on the Edward Devereux
farm in Section 20, on the south side of Emery Road.]

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mr. W. H. Bump learned the sad news Thursday, that his son Nelson, in Idaho, was
murdered, through a newspaper that is published in the vicinity where his son resided.  It appears from papers and
letters which Mr. Bump has been able to obtain that the murder was committed some time the last part of April while
Nelson was riding upon a buckboard buggy in a desolate part of the country.  His remains were recently found on
the buckboard off the main road in a gulch with a bullet hole through the body.  Mr. B. expected his son and a
partner here last May or June after some property, which Mr. B. had purchased and was holding for them.  Mr. B.
suspicions his son’s partner who knew that his son had quite a quantity of money for which the murder was
undoubtedly committed.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Geo. Hall’s show arrived home Monday, for a rest and to get ready for the fall fairs.

100 Years Ago (1908):  A. E. Dixon with George Shaw of this city and a couple of men from Brodhead left Tuesday
afternoon for Texas where the former gentleman is largely interested in real estate.  The men will be absent some
two and possibly three weeks and while in the Lone Star State will visit many interesting points.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Last Wednesday morning, at about four o’clock the country in the neighborhood of Leedle’
s Mill and Cooksville was visited by the most destructive hail storm in the history, the crops in the small area visited
being totally destroyed, the tobacco and corn being about all to pieces.  The storm was about a mile wide and
covered a stretch of country about two miles in length.  A silo belonging to Foncie Collins, clear to one side of the
storm was also blown down by what appeared to be a side swirl from the storm.  Where the storm struck, damage
was complete and many farmers have lost their entire crops.

80 Years Ago (1928):  The annual Evansville Chautauqua starts next Wednesday with a full five day session of as
interesting and enjoyable attractions as any Chautauqua Company has ever shown here.  The attractions have
been varied to meet the tastes of different ages of patrons and there will be something every afternoon and
evening to please either the youngest or the oldest.  The musical programs and the lectures this season are said
to be especially good.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  With the installation of several new machines representing the last word in modern factory
equipment and the inauguration of countless helpful improvements throughout the plant for increased efficiency,
the Baker Manufacturing Company here is this week launching one of the most extensive remodeling and
renovation programs in the history of the company.  The production department of the plant started operating on a
reduced time schedule Monday morning and will continue working only three days per week during the alteration
program.  New equipment now being installed includes a hydraulic shaper in the tool room which is completely
renovated for the machine, a sander and drill press in the pattern room which is also undergoing radical changes
and a new elevator in the foundry which will operate from the ground floor to the charging floor of the cupola.  One
of the most modern departments in the plant now is the drafting room the walls of which have been redecorated
with a new indirect lighting system.  The business offices have likewise been rearranged and the lighting system
improved.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Mr. and Mrs. Roy Fenn, Evansville, Route 2, announce the engagement of their daughter
Virginia Neva, to Harold H. Mauerman, son of J. H. Mauerman, Monroe, Route 2.  The wedding will be an event of
August.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Mayor R. B. Townsend and a conservation department representative went over the lake
carefully in a boat this past week making plans for the clean-up operation.  In checking over the dirt removed by
dredging this summer, they figure that after the water is drained off, approximately 25,000 cubic yards of dirt were
removed from the lake bottom.  Present plans call or the following sequences of operations on the lake.  First, the
gates will be opened to let the water out, somewhat slowly.  With the gates in the condition they are, it is feared
that letting too much water through at once might do damage to the gates.  However, it is believed that the water
will be going fast enough to have a flushing action in the stream through the park, helping remove much of the
green algae which has been growing this summer when there has been little water running.  On the 25th,
conservation people will be here to seine out the fish.  It is hoped that farmers in the area will take the fish for
fertilizer.  Game fish caught in the seines will be transported to Delafield to be held until the water level is back up
in the lake.

40 Years Ago (1968):  Marine Sergeant Theodore D. Pestor 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Theodore V. Pestor of Rte. 1,
Evansville was awarded his tenth Air Medal.  He received the medal for meritorious service while engaged in aerial
combat missions against the enemy while serving as a member of the First Marine Aircraft Wing in South Vietnam.  
As a member of the wing he also helped to support other U. S. and Allied forces operating in South Vietnam.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Town of Union Board met Monday August 7 at the Maas Insurance Agency.  Pat
Nordbrock was appointed to the new zoning committee and has agreed to serve as secretary.  The board voted to
place a moratorium on any building including driveways for 60 days.  The Trygve Olsen, Jr. preliminary subdivision
on Crocker Road was approved by the town board.  This was the last piece of property to be approved before the
moratorium.  The property will eventually be transferred to William Johnson.  Some discussion was given over to
what to do about the Chicago Northwestern track and right of way from Beloit to Evansville, if they should abandon
that part of the line.  They prefer that the railroad not be abandoned but if it were to be they were going to inform
the state that they wished that the land be returned to the farms on either side of the tracks.  
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  Margery Buckeridge, is the new president of the Grove Society.  Keith Williams was the
speaker at the annual meeting at the Eager Free Public Library.  Keith wrote about the Evansville Park.  Janeece
Brunsvold was elected vice president, Laura Wemhoener, historian and publicity chairman.  [Note:  Keith Williams’
book about the history of the park is available at the Eager Free Public Library.]

10 years ago (1998):  On Tuesday, of this week, the City will honor several exemplary volunteers with Keys to the
City.  The Lifetime of Service Award goes to co-winners, Keith Williams (posthumously) and Dee Losey.  City
Government Volunteer of the Year is Ron Schmit, honorable mention goes to Jim Bates.  Community Service
Organization, Meals on Wheels, and Community Service Organization Volunteers of the Year, Laverne Krueger
and Pat Peters and honorable mention to Sue Hunt.  Youth Sports Volunteer Award goes to Dick Knudtson; Youth
Service volunteer award goes to Gary Burkhalter; Senior Services Co-Volunteers of the Year go to Berna Burnham
and Miriam Hall.

In Review
Third Week of August 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Episcopal Meeting.  There will be Episcopal services held in the school house in this town
Thursday evening of this week at 7 ½ o’clock, Rev. H. W. Spaulding of Madison, officiating.  We learn that it is the
intention to institute Episcopal services in the town if a suitable place can be obtained for holding them.  We hope
they may be successful.  Quite a number of that sect are found here, and if regular meetings were once
established others would come in and soon quite a prosperous society might be created.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Gentlemen C. C. Howard and G. L. Mc Coy, of Magnolia, bound in 12 hours, 12 acres of
oats.  They called it a pretty good day’s work.

120 Years Ago (1888):  By request of village clerk, W. R. Phillips, we publish the following correct assessed
valuation of the village property of Evansville:  200 horses, $8,660; 136 neat cattle, $1,777; 4 mules, $170; 90
sheep and lambs, $100; 48 swine, $203; 259 wagons, carriages, sleighs, $5,422; 292 gold and silver watches,
$3,270; 102 pianos, organs, $4,220; 1,000 merchants and manufacturing stock shares of bank stock, $14,660;
value of all other personal property, $133,160; Total value of all person property, $222,447; value of city lots,
$190,685;  Aggregate value of lands other than city lots, $107,605; Total value of all property, $520,737; number
of acres of land assessed, 642.

110 Years Ago (1898)   A course of lectures is anticipated from former and old graduates of the Evansville
Seminary.  Rev. Wm. Stevens, Hon. Burr W. Jones, Robert La Follette, and Prof. Hise.  Proceeds are to be
appropriated for a library for the Seminary.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Mrs. Covert Passed Away Thursday.  As the sun was slowly sinking to its rest in the
western horizon, Thursday evening, the spirit of Mrs. Claude Covert has quietly and peacefully passed to its home
in the Great Beyond.  For about six months Mrs. Covert has been afflicted with tuberculosis and all that skill and
care could do was unavailing.  A husband, son, mother, Mrs. Mary Powers, four brothers, Arthur of this city,
George and Sanford of Madison, Henry of Sparta, and one sister Maude, are left to mourn the loss of a kind and
affectionate woman.  Funeral services were held at the home Saturday afternoon and remains interred in the
cemetery at this place.  To the bereaved the sympathy of a host of friends is extended.

90 Years Ago (1918):   In its recent call for student volunteer nurses to receive training as hospital nurses, by the
government, this city was assigned, as her quota, five who were expected to volunteer.  As is usual with Evansville
in all things patriotic, this quota was easily reached and the full number of ladies have volunteered their services
and stand ready to give themselves to their country whenever they are called.  These young ladies are Miss Irene
Montgomery, Miss Thelma Stair, Miss Bessie Everson, Miss Jessie Mapes and Miss Ruth Chase.  These young
ladies will be held subject to call up to April 1, 1919, and if called will be given a regular nurses training at the
expense of the government.  The idea is that these student nurses, as soon as they are educated sufficiently will
take the places of the older nurses in the hospitals in the country, allowing the older nurses to go to the war zone,
where they are so badly needed by our government and our soldier boys.  

80 Years Ago (1928):  Work was commenced for an addition of two stories in height to the Antes Press building on
the north end.  This addition will be 18 x 33 in size and will be used for the battery of seven Linotypes.  All of these
machines will be placed in this room taking away the noise from the composing room which will be given more room
when the machines are taken out.  The lower story of this building will be used as a paper stock room, as it opens
direct into the press room in the lower story.  This addition has been made necessary by the large increase in
business which calls for more room and more machinery.  C. Winston has the contract for the building and Jon Witt
is doing the excavating and Bert Morgan the cement and brick work.  The new addition will be of brick to match the
main building.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Dr. Wilder, Former U. W. Teacher, Dies.  Dr. George W. Wilder, 63, at one time a member
of the University of Wisconsin faculty, died Wednesday at his home in San Luis Obispo, Cal., his daughter Mrs.
Wanda Hile learned today.  For more than 30 years, until the time of his death, Dr. Wilder taught and carried on
research at Southern California Polytechnic school in San Luis Obispo.  He was an instructor in the University of
Wisconsin physics department from 1896 to 1903.  He was born in 1875 at Varysburg, N. Y., where he spent his
boyhood.  His family moved to Wisconsin and he graduated from Evansville High School and the University of
Wisconsin.  He married Katherine Ann Miller, daughter of Charles Miller, a pioneer settler at Cooksville.  After
taking a university degree here he won a doctor's degree at the University of Zurich, Switzerland.  Dr. Wilder later
studied at the Universities of Berlin and Paris.  Leaving the University of Wisconsin after seven years of teaching,
he taught several years at Armour Institute, Chicago and then joined Southern California Polytechnic.  Survivors
are two daughters, Mrs. Hile and Mrs. R. S. Stover, Dallas, Tex;, two sons, Roland, Santa Barbara, Cal., and John,
San Luis Obispo; a sister, Mrs. Fred Coombs, Madison and five grandchildren.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  George Greenway, Evansville Scoutmaster has announced that a court of honor will be held
here Sept. 1.  Shannon Ferguson, Jack Deininger and Jim Kaltenborn will become Eagle Scouts and will be
awarded their badges.  They will also receive the following merit badges:  Shannon Ferguson, bird study and
public speaking; Jack Deininger, bird study, camping, angling, art and scholarship ; and Jim Kaltenborn, bird study,
camping, chemistry, automobiling and angling.  Edward Sherman, who became an Eagle Scout one year ago, will
be presented with a bronze palm

50 Years Ago (1958):  Senior Life Saving Class members who recently completed instruction at Memorial Pool
here are Sheila Sorkin, Anne Baker, Sandra Higginbotham, Norma Dille, Mary Lynn Estes, Don Albright, and John
Patterson.  Dick Meyers is the head life guard at the pool.

40 Years Ago (1968): David Lee Kampschroer, a native of La Crosse, Wis., will assume the duties of elementary
school principal in the Evansville Public School for the forthcoming school year.  He has completed three years of
teaching in the Beloit Schools.  New teachers are Habib Amin, junior high industrial arts; Beverly Conroy, second
grade; Jeannette Elmer, junior high physical education; Jon Enos, high school French; Victor Illichmann, sixth
grade; Ann Kerkenbush, junior high English; Louis Levy; high school history; Bonnie Manel, high school business
education; Judith Rigby, high school mathematics and science; Nancy Krueger, third grade; Sherry Owen, sixth
grade; Janet Plourde, high school English; Charlene Quam, high school economics; Rita Rasmussen, third grade;
Stephen Rasmussen, fifth grade; Barbara Romano, high school German and Duane Updike, junior and senior high
mathematics.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Jim Naysmith, Cooksville, an architect/planner, has been working recently on some plans for
merchants on East Main Street.  Seeing the possibilities that tree plantings on Main Street might enhance the
entire historical district, Mr. Naysmith came up with a drawing, showing how a portion of East Main Street might look
with trees, as well as some awnings.  Color also would play a part in the transformation and Naysmith is working
with the colors true to the 1890 period.  Naysmith suggests Norway Maples, which would grow to about 20 feet in
height.  He explained to the merchants and business people present at the last Chamber of Commerce meeting
that the sidewalks would have to have openings cut in uniform widths, soil would have to be tested for planting, and
the newly planted trees would have to be watered once a week for the first three growing seasons.  Business
people expressed enthusiasm for the plan but cautiously raised the question of vandalism, which could easily
destroy the program.  The subject, only in its early stages will be discussed again at the Chamber meetings.
.
20 Years Ago (1988):  According to City Forester Ken Grenawalt there are about 40 trees in the city scheduled to
be taken down.  He states they are safety hazards, being hollow and split and a good storm could bring them
down.  Some of the trees are in the park, but most are on city owned terraces.  Many residents have been asking
why the trees have been numbered, and if they were to be trimmed.  There will be a public works meeting at the
city hall.  All interested citizens are welcome to attend.  Questions on the trees can be answered at that meeting.

10 years ago (1998):  Harold and Virginia Mauerman will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary at Magnolia A.
C. Church on Sunday, Aug. 23.  They were married at the same church on Aug. 22, 1948.  He is retired from
General Motors.  The couple’s family includes Bill, John, Sally and Jeanne and 11 grandchildren.

In Review
First Week of September 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Re-opened.  Owen’s Gallery.  G. C. Carleton, last of Waukesha, briefly announces this
week, that he has opened these celebrated photographic rooms for the purpose of carrying on the photographic
business in all its departments, and invites the attention of the public to specimens of his work.  All persons wanting
a good picture are invited to an early call.  Owen’s Photograph Gallery, foot of Main Street, Evansville, September
3, 1868.

130 Years Ago (1878):  President Hayes is accompanied on his western trip by his immediate family and General
La Duc and family.  They will pass Evansville by a special car attached to the Wednesday afternoon express on
their way to St. Paul, where the party expects to arrive at 5:30 a.m. Thursday.  After spending a few days in
Minnesota attending the State Fair at St. Paul and the Hennepin County Fair at Minneapolis, they will return to
Chicago by the same route, stopping over to the Wisconsin State Fair at Madison, on his way to the Pacific coast.

120 Years Ago (1888):  The poor children of Chicago which were sent here two weeks ago were started upon their
home trip yesterday, many were quite loth to leave their new homes and many of their adopted parents were fully
as loth to part with them.  We noticed that all returned with a bundle and much better clad than when they arrived.  
Undoubtedly the little ones have enjoyed their two weeks fresh air visit very much.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Mr. Lev Frantz has sold his old house on Main St., to Mr. Wm. Griffith, which is being
moved by Mr. Frank Sayles to a lot on Franklin St., on the east side.  Mr. Frantz has built a part of what is to be a
handsome residence where his old house stood.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Frank Van Patten was kicked by a horse Sunday, in the right leg just above the knee,
which will lay him up for a few days.  The kick was not sufficiently strong to break the bone, but the muscles were
badly pinched and quite painful.

90 Years Ago (1918):   At its meeting Tuesday night, the City Council authorized the purchase of a Ford chassis
and a hose cart body to carry the hose in the  future for the fire department, it being the belief of all that the load
now carried by the present fire truck was too heavy for quick and efficient work.  The new truck, being smaller and
lighter, will be able to turn in a smaller space and get places where the larger truck cannot go with ease and
swiftness.  This new truck will undoubtedly be a great addition to an already efficient fire department.

80 Years Ago (1928):  While driving on the Attica road seven miles west of Evansville early Sunday morning,
Donald Dalton and Glen Trickle, of Magnolia, had their car wrecked by turning over twice on account of a defective
steering gear.  It is stated that young Dalton was quite severely hurt in the back, while Trickle was but slightly cut
and bruised.  The car was demolished.

70 Years Ago (1938):  A transaction was completed here last week wherein John W. Higgins, Janesville, proprietor
of the Pure Oil Service Station on North Madison Street, purchased the dairy business and milk route of Francis
Doyle.  Mr. Higgins plans to deliver throughout the city every morning and in addition will handle special orders
upon request.  His products will include raw milk, pasteurized milk, whipping and coffee cream, chocolate milk,
butter, buttermilk and cottage cheese.  Mr. Doyle, who has been engaged in the dairy business here for the past
six years, plans to devote his time hereafter to his farm at the north limits of the city.  Mr. and Mrs. Higgins and
daughter, Ardath, are moving from Janesville to Evansville tomorrow and will occupy the Ralph Harvey house at 20
Garfield avenue.  Their son, John, Jr., who has been managing the Higgins Pure Oil Service Station here, will also
make his home with his parents.

60 Years Ago (1948):  D. S. McCaslin has purchased the North Madison Street D-X Filling Station at 129 North
Madison Street, known during the summer as the Parkway station from Woodrow Reich who has owned and
operated the business the past four months.  Mr. McCaslin will still retain his repair shop at 140 Enterprise Street.  
Mac, Don and Larry have an advertisement on another page of this week’s Review.  They are prepared to sell gas
and service cars.

50 Years Ago (1958):   Dr. Charles E. Nelson opened his new dental office Tuesday, Sept. 2, in the late Dr. Ames’
office which is located on West Main Street over the Kroger Grocery Store.  

40 Years Ago (1968):   Bradley Beal, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clark Beal, Evansville area graduated on Thursday, Aug.
24 from the Wisconsin Institute of Mortuary Science in Milwaukee.  There were 45 graduates in the class.  Beal was
graduated from the Evansville High School in 1964 after which he attended the Platteville State University for two
years.  He served his internship at the Hanson Funeral Home in Marshfield.  He will be employed at the Zentner-
Ellestad Funeral Home in New Glarus.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Julie Haakenson of Evansville won two first places on Labor Day at the Horse Show in
Brooklyn.  One was for the Junior English Pleasure for 7 and under and the second was the first place win in Open
Saddleseat Equitation.  Her horse is a purebred Arabian named Zaubaa.  This weekend she will go to the State 4-
H Horse Show.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Mayor Chris Eager announces that he will appoint Charles M. DiPiazza as the new Police
Chief for the City of Evansville at the next City Council meeting on September 13, 1968, subject to the Council’s
approval by a two thirds majority.  DiPiazza has 12 years of law enforcement experience, and is presently serving
as the Police chief of the Village-Town of Cottage Grove, in addition to working as a patrolman for the City of
Monona.  

10 years ago (1998):  Annette Losey was hostess on Saturday, Aug. 22, to a neighborhood farewell coffee for
Shelly Andrews and family.  The Andrews have moved to their new home on Gibbs Lake Road.


In Review
Second Week of September 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Now is the time to save the Seminary, the boasted pride of our place, if you will.  Mr.
Semans, who holds claims against the building, has already commenced to advertise to sell upon the mortgage
which he holds against it.  We learn that the Committee having the matter in charge, have secured the necessary
amount to free the property from debt and make the necessary improvements to within $1,400.  Make another
effort and the work is done.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The Cooksville Cheese Factory shipped a car load of cheese Friday aggregating 22,569
pounds, consigned to Ames & Fulsome, N. Y.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Isaac Brink and assistants are repairing the stone abutments to Main St. Bridge under the
direction of Mr. B. F. Emery of the Village board, the old stone work under the northeast corner had become
dangerously broken and requires the replacing of nearly one half under the east side.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Work has commenced by a large gang of men on the long distance metallic telephone line
from this city to Janesville; the job will be rushed through in as short a time as possible.  This will be the first
metallic line out of this city.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The tenth annual Rock County Fair has passed and was a grand success from start to
finish.  So large was the crowd of visitors in the city all week that the hotels were obliged to send many of their
transients to private homes to sleep.  The fair officials are greatly pleased with the financial results.  It is not known
as yet just how much the surplus will be.  The ball games were some of the biggest attractions and never before
has there been so many fine race horses on the Evansville track.  It is concluded that the exhibits and
entertainments were much better than those of any previous year.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Robert J. Antes writes to his parents in this city that this week he finished his training as an
aviator at the Rantoul school and has been promoted to the solo division.  The solo flyers are those who handle
their machines by themselves, without help or instructors.  He stated that the closing stunts of the instructions were
quite thrilling, as the cadets are required to make the “Tail Spin,” “Spiral Dive,” and several other thrilling features
of the aviation instruction.  He is wonderfully pleased with his work and hopes to get a chance to chase Fritzie
machines over in France before long.

80 Years Ago (1928):  A special meeting of the M. E. Ladies Aid was held in the church parlors.  The new officers
elected for the coming year were, President, Mrs. Madge Robinson; 1st Vice President, Mrs. Robert Hubbard; 2nd
Vice President, Mrs. John Thurman; Secretary, Mrs. Art Dake; Treasurer, Mrs. Robert Richardson.  Delicious
refreshments were served by the President.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The Sophomore-Junior girls Sunday School Class of the Congregational Church will hold a
wiener roast and picnic supper in Leota Park Friday evening.  The class is composed of Betty Millard, Betty Groh,
Marion Steffen, Wilma Schwartz, Janette Gabler, and Theo June Devine, with Mrs. A. H. Devine as teacher of the
group.

60 Years Ago (1948):  William Bone, owner and operator of the Leota School, and also a lover of fine horses,
especially Palominos, is recovering in a Madison hospital from an injury he received last Friday.  Mr. Bone was
showing his Palomino mare, Ramona, who took several prizes here at the horse show, at a show in Morrison, Ill.,
last week.  The animal became frightened at the bright lights and reared, throwing Mr. Bone to the ground.  He
sustained a broken pelvis bone.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Mr. and Mrs. William Erbs and Mr. and Mrs. Francis Erbs have purchased Pat’s Market and
are now open under the name of Erbs Grocery.”  They have been Evansville residents for a number of years.  
They expect to continue the same line of merchandise and have free delivery.  They also hope to extend the same
type of service given to the community by the Patterson market.  [Note:  the grocery was located at 15 East Main
Street.]

40 Years Ago (1968):   A new 6 x 6 ½ foot bulletin board has been placed on the front lawn of the Methodist
Church which was given by Mrs. Kenneth Wood in memory of her late husband.  The board is framed with white
brick, with a glass door front.  The inner board is equipped with several sizes of removable letters for announcing
church activities.  The changing of announcements is easily accomplished as the door is on hinges and the letters
easily replaced.

30 Years Ago (1978):  High School Principal Michael Wiziarde informed the school board Monday night that track
coaches in the Rock Valley Conference voted 14 to 0 last May not to hold any conference track meets at
Evansville this year because of the dangerous condition of Evansville High School’s track.  Wiziarde said two girls
sprained their ankles in the ruts at a track meet here last spring.  The school district is in the process of having a
feasibility study made of its athletic facilities in hopes of constructing a new track facility that will include a football
field, but it is questionable when sufficient funds will be available for the project.  All football games are played at
the football field at Leota Park because the school has no football field.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Ed Corn, owner-operator of the Evansville Gas ‘N Go on Union Street is planning an open
house next week to acquaint people with his newly opened establishment.  Corn has built an attractive brick
convenience store to house the many grocery and household items he offers.  The building is a nice addition to
the gas pumps, offering convenience to busy travelers.  Sept. 14 has been designated Grand Opening Day, with
special free candy for kids.  Lottery tickets will go on sale that day, and Corn will be handling them at Gas ‘N Go.  

10 years ago (1998):  Robert A. Garbrecht and Phyllis Mae Koehl were married on Sept. 8, 1948 at St. Paul’s
Lutheran Church in Reading, Ohio.  The Garbrechts have been residents of Evansville for the past 24 years.  Rev.
Garbrecht served as pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Evansville until his retirement in 1988.   

In Review
Third Week of September 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The School Board have just completed the census of the School District embraced in the
village, which shows 370 scholars between the ages of 4 and 20 years, entitled to public school money.  This same
census by the usual method of computing all population of a town, will give Evansville a population of 1,480
persons.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Miss Myrta Bargewell and Miss Sarah Cadwallader went to Whitewater Monday, to attend
the Normal School at that place.  The girls went off with stout hearts but moist eyes.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mr. Charles Winship now has a fine portable outfit for sawing wood, we saw him with his
assistants cut three cords of wood into stove wood at the school house in just thirty minutes Monday.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Hattie L. Spencer and son Lloyd will take up their residences at Madison for the purpose of
giving Lloyd the advantages of the schools there; the former will be at her gallery in this city two days of each week
where she will take negatives of all who wish to avail themselves of her services in this line.  [Note:  Hattie Spencer
was Evansville first woman photographer and worked in Evansville beginning in 1887.]

100 Years Ago (1908):  George Blunt, who was injured some time ago by a fall from a trapeze while performing in
Chicago, has so far recovered that he is able to resume his work upon the vaudeville stage and leave for Chicago,
this week.  Mrs. Blunt and boy Gordon, who have been with relatives here for some time, left for London and Paris
on a business trip.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The fate of Leslie Fisher, who was reported “Missing In Acton” a few weeks ago, was solved
last week by his mother, Mrs. M. J. Fisher, receiving notice from the Red Cross that through the efforts of that
organization, which works in unison with the German Red Cross, her son had been found to be a prisoner in
Germany and that he was being held in a castle not very distant from Berlin.  There was no other particulars with
the message, so it cannot be learned how he came to be captured or how he is being treated.  The government is
at present working on a plan for the exchange of prisoners with the German government and it is to be hoped that
if this plan is a success that all, or a part at least, of the American prisoners now in German prison camps will be
returned to their homes, Leslie among them.  

80 Years Ago (1928):  That part of the town of Magnolia township known as Magnolia Corners was hit by a small
cyclone Friday at about four o’clock, badly damaging the Dougherty store by blowing the roof in on that part of the
store which in former days used to be the old tavern and smashing the front windows of the store.  The storm
seemed to come like the blow of a gigantic fist, as in a few minutes it was over and the sun shining.  It again
touched the earth on the township line road at the L. E. Gransee place, where it demolished a tobacco shed and
further north hit a new barn belong to Joe Dalton, badly wrecking it and then further north striking the large
tobacco shed on the Boynton farm which had just been filled with tobacco by Paul Halverson, wrecked the building
and piled building and tobacco out in the road, from where Saturday an attempt was being made to salvage the
tobacco, some of it had been in the shed two weeks and was starting to dry.  From there it again rose to touch the
earth again on the Fulton Road east of Tolles Corners where it piled another tobacco shed with contents into the
road.  W. D. Dougherty and Wallace Andrew are the heaviest losers from the storm.  There are many more in this
locality who were hard hit, among them being Grant Howard, Edward Larson, Thomas Harper, Eugene Rowald and
John Barringer.  Grant Howard, who was the only one hurt to speak of, was standing in the store watching the
approaching storm, when it struck the front of the building and smashing the window, threw the broken glass all
over him, badly cutting him about the face.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  Evansville was definitely assured of its PWA grant of $99,818 for the erection of a new high
school building, auditorium, and kindergarten addition to the present grade building yesterday, when the Board of
Education received telegrams from Congressman Thomas R. Amile and Senator F. Ryan Duffy stating that the
proposed aid had been approved.  Preliminary plans for the new building and addition were drawn several weeks
ago by Law, Law and Potter, Madison architectural firm, but nothing further has been done pending information, as
to whether or not the grant could be secured.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  The first meeting of the Evansville-Cooksville Luther League following the summer vacation
will be held Sunday evening in the parish house at which time there will be a business meeting election of the
officers, social hour and refreshments.  Assistants to the Rev. A. M. Romstad, in the Luther League field will be Mr.
and Mrs. Harold Brunsell, Jr., and Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn Lewis. Plans are being made for a roller skating party
Thursday, Sept. 30, and a bicycle hike in the near future.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Evansville 4-H club is being represented by five of its members who are participating on a
WCLO radio program Saturday, Sept. 20.  Dennis Bullard, Daryl Wood and Reid and Alvin Francis will enter into a
panel discussion, “Why I Like Photography, at 11:05 a.m.  Music will be furnished by Sharon Krause.

40 Years Ago (1968):   Foss, Englestad and Foss, the architectural firm of Sioux City, Iowa, which is in charge of
the plans for the new nursing home to be erected in Evansville, had a representative in the city last week who met
with members of the local committee.  The definite decision as to location was made.  The nursing home will be
built on the Arthur Tomlin property on the corner of Fifth Street and Garfield Ave. and will face the avenue.  At the
present time Garfield ends at its west intersection with Fourth Street, but prior to the completion of the nursing
home, it will be extended to Fifth Street.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Contracts for Barbara Haakenson as a library aide; Carol Van and Marion Holm as teacher
aids, and Sue Deininger as a guidance clerk, at salaries set forth in the master contract were approved by the
Evansville School Board.

20 Years Ago (1988):  John and Laura Hegge and their three children, Kiora, 7, Trista, 3, and Britta, 2, have
purchased the Eva Rivers home.  Mrs. Hegge is attending the UW-Madison studying bacteriology.  John Hegge
has been assistant Golf Course Superintendent at Janesville and now is Golf Course Superintendent at the
Evansville Golf Course.

10 years ago (1998):  The retirement party held at the Evansville Country Club this past Sunday for Dr. Roland
Jeans was well attended.  Deanna Jeans reported they greeted about 350 friends and clients throughout the
afternoon.

In Review
Fourth Week of September 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Millinery and Dress Making, Mrs. Dyer and Miss L. Robinson having purchased the stock
of millinery goods formerly owned by Mrs. Jennie Winston, are now ready to attend to all calls in their line of
business.  Ladies are invited to examine their goods and to give them a share of their patronage.  Rooms over R.
Winston & Co.’s Store, Main Street, Evansville, Wis.  [Note:  This business was located in the second story of 17
East Main Street.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  Messrs Lee and Joslyn now have the pleasure of informing the public that they have
commenced operations in their new bakery and stand prepared to supply every thing in that line of business.  All
orders executed with dispatch, and goods promptly delivered free of charge in any part of the village.  Luncheons
served in every style on short notice, at all hours.  A superior article of candies made fresh every day.

120 Years Ago (1888):  We learn the sad intelligence by the way of comrade James R. West that Thomas
Robinson (well known by the early settlers of this place as Uncle Tommy for his many deeds of kindness) died at
the home of his daughter, Mrs. C.R. Bent, in West Union, Iowa, on Saturday, September 13th, 1888, aged 91
years.  His wife and only partner through life, precedes him to the promised land about five years.  Their union
resulted in the following named children:  Steven Eddie, the only son and five daughters, namely, Jennie,
Heneratta, Elnora, Lottie, and Bell.  Elnora and Lottie died several years since, leaving four which survive their
parents.  We think that he settled in this place about the year 1844 and was one of the founders and building
committee of the first M. E. Church and became the owner of large tracts of land in and near here which would
have undoubtedly made him well off had it not been for his unlimited benevolence.  He was not only a Christian in
profession, but one in every act of his daily life,.  We never heard a person be he infidel or Christian speak ill of
Uncle Tommy.  His friends were countless, his enemies none.  He is now sure to reap the reward of an honest
benevolent Christian.

110 Years Ago (1898)   The show given by Col. Geo. W. Hall, Saturday for the benefit of the Woman’s Relief
Corps, was a decided success, replenishing their treasury to the amount of $38 net; although it be of no personal
benefit to the W. R. C. only to enable them to relieve more suffering.  They extend their most sincere thanks to Mr.
Hall for his generosity in placing it within their power t do this, as well as to Mr. L. Shiveley who so generously gave
permission for the exhibition to be given upon his land, and to Mr. James Powles who donated his services in
taking tickets at the entrance as well as many others who gave of their time and attention towards making such a
decided success of the affair.

100 Years Ago (1908):  J. C. Robinson is doing a lot of showing of his fine herd of Hereford cattle at the fairs this
fall.  He unloaded them here on Monday, having just arrived from the Elkhorn Fair, and in a few hours reloaded
and shipped to the Interstate Fair at La Crosse.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The services is calling the boys from this city at a rapid rate.  Glen Anderson, Harold
Eastman, Lloyd Heffel, Ed. Butts and Harry Kuelz all went to Madison this week and enlisted as mechanics in the
ground school of aviation.  They expect to be called within the next fifteen days.  Oct. 1, Russell Hall, Terry Durner,
Archie McKinney and Leonard Finn are ordered to report at Waco, Texas, and Ellsworth Ten Eyke goes to
Jefferson Barracks, Mo., on the same date.  

80 Years Ago (1928):   Notice to contractors.  Up to 8 p.m. October 9th, 1928, the Water and Light Commission,
Evansville, Wisconsin will receive sealed proposals on the drilling and casing of a deep water well.  Specifications
and form of proposal may be obtained by application to Mr. E. S. Cary, Superintendent, Water and Light
Department, Evansville, Wisconsin.

70 Years Ago (1938):  August Mueller, Brodhead, has leased the Eager Implement building at the rear of the
Hamilton hardware on Maple Street for the establishment of a Swiss cheese factory in Evansville which plant will be
in full operation by Nov. 1.  The building is being completely remodeled for the factory and an addition is to be
erected for a boiler room and coal bin.  According to Mr. Mueller, six cheese will be made here daily each
necessitating the purchase of from 2300 to 2900 pounds of milk from Evansville farmers.  Mr. and Mrs. Mueller
have already rented a house from the Evansville Construction Company on Fourth Street and will move to the city
Oct. 1.  Their son, Walter, is enrolled as a freshman in the Evansville High School.  [Note this building was razed
and the site is now the parking lot for the Baker Building at the southeast corner of Maple and Main Streets.]

60 Years Ago (1948):  According to an advertisement in this week’s issue of the Review, Jim Johnson is now
operating the Country Club Tavern and will have a grand opening tomorrow, Friday evening.  Mr. Johnson invites
the public to visit his place of business.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The new $158,000 St. John’s Lutheran Church in Evansville will be dedicated at 3:p.m.
Sunday, September 28.  Returning to Evansville for these important services will be founding pastor of the
congregation, the Rev. Theodore Heimarck, Minneapolis.  He will deliver the morning service and will officiate at
the rite of dedication in the afternoon.  Heimarck was installed as the church’s first pastor in 1936.  The sermon at
the afternoon service will be given by the Rev. Constantine Nestande, Minneapolis, who will also be a soloist at the
morning service. The combined choirs of the Evansville and Cooksville churches will prove an anthem at each
service.  The church is built in the contemporary style of Roman brick.  It was designed by architect John Steinman,
Monticello.  Seating capacity in the nave is 340 with an overflow capacity of 650.  The congregation was organized
in 1936 with a charter membership of 75 which today number 650.  The Rev. Arvid M. Romstad is pastor of St.
John’s, under whose leadership the new church was planned, financed, and built.  He has been pastor of St. John’
s since 1943.  The building committee for the new church was composed of Morris Gilbertson, chairman: Donald
Cadman, secretary; Robert Turner, Howard Becher and Dr. E. W. Krueger.  The building fund committee included
Dr. Krueger, chairman; Mrs. Leo Brunsell, secretary; Howard Norby, treasurer; Mrs. Fred Ringhand and Harold
Spersrud.  

40 Years Ago (1968):   Plans are being completed this week by the Evansville Firemen for their open house event
to be held Sunday, Sept. 29, in the new fire house located just west of the City Hall, which was completed a few
months ago.  After using the smaller quarters in the city hall basement for many years, the new building, which was
the firemen’s dream for a long time, provides ample room for them to house all their equipment.  In addition there is
a large room available for city elections, firemen’s meetings, and other activities.  There is also a modern kitchen
well equipped and restroom facilities.  Refreshments will be provided by the City and served by members of the
Firemen’s Ladies Auxiliary.

30 Years Ago (1978):  William Ware retired from the Post Office in Evansville, Wednesday September 20 after 31
years of service.  He is a native of Evansville and so is his wife.  They have one daughter, Candace Smith, who
lives in McFarland and they have two grandsons, Scott 10 and Andrew 7.  After returning from military service in
1945, his first permanent job began in 1947, with the post office, and he has been with them ever since.  The first
ten years with the postal service he was a clerk and the last 21 he has been on the road as a rural mail carrier.  
His mother worked for the post office when delivery was made with a horse and buggy.  In his 21 years as a rural
carrier he has carried one million pieces of mail and traveled five hundred thousand miles, or 20 times around the
earth.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  The effects of Hurricane Gilbert were felt in Evansville on Monday, when extreme winds hit
the area, knocking down trees and power lines and transformers.  Some areas were without power for almost six
hours.  

10 years ago (1998):  Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Kopp will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with an open house
at the Evansville Country Club.  Ernie and Eileen Babcock were married Sept. 25, 1948, at St. Mary’s Catholic
Church in Janesville.  They have farmed in Evansville and the surrounding area all 50 years of their marriage.  
Ernie is retired from the Union Coop and Eileen is employed at the Nazareth House in Stoughton.

In Review
Last Week of September and First Week of October 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Came into my enclosure in Magnolia, 3 miles from Evansville, on Sunday, September 27th,
1868, a flock of 42 sheep, three of which are wearing bells, and each sheep has the letter “P” marked with paint,
upon the left side.  The owner is requested to prove the property, pay charges and remove the same.  Magnolia,
Sept. 30, 1868.  C. W. Moore.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Homer Potter handed us a sample of fuel, such as is used on the prairies in Dakota.  It
is made of wild grass firmly rolled into a cylinder, about fourteen inches long and two and a half inches in
diameter.  It was brought home by his son, Nata, who with an elder brother has been homesteading it there this
summer. This kind of native fuel, it is said, answers a good purpose, and two tons of it will do a family for a year.  It
is a novelty in a timber growing country, and we shall keep it in our office for that purpose.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Fred Topp’s baby died a short time ago of whooping cough, some few other children in the
neighborhood have it and now the school in North Magnolia has been closed to prevent the spreading of the
disease.

110 Years Ago (1898)   A conflagration was narrowly averted on last Thursday evening at the home of P. C.
Wilder, by the explosion of a gasoline stove.  Miss Sadie Slightham, Mrs. Wilder’s niece, not knowing the stove was
leaking gas, lighted a match and an explosion was the result.  It is almost a miracle that she escaped without being
severely burned.  The house and furniture were quite badly damaged.  The fire alarm startled our citizens about
seven o’clock Thursday evening.  In a few moments the fire companies and engine were at work upon the home
and soon the flames were under control.  Thanks to the efficient work of our fire companies no very serious
damage was done to the premises.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Wm. H. Taft and Wm. J. Bryan made train stops in Evansville.  Nearly 3,000 people were
estimated to have met Taft’s train.  He spoke for 2 minutes.  The following day, Bryan’s train stopped for several
minutes.  He spoke on the “full dinner pail.”

90 Years Ago (1918):   L. Van Wart this week has a display of souvenirs from the battle fields of Europe in his
store window, consisting of a steel helmet, some shrapnel fragments, some of the silk from the wing of an
aeroplane and the shells from what is known as the 75s, field artillery guns.  These souvenirs were sent to Miss
Zeta Webb by a friend in Europe and it is through her courtesy that they are displayed.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Evansville is proud of two things, her Lions Club Organization and the Spirit of her Citizens
which made her lake and park where so many visitors come to spend their Sundays and Holidays.  It has been
through the efforts of this club that Evansville for two years past has had her wonderful Community Christmas
Trees.  Visitors to Evansville are surprised at the splendid equipment at the city park in slides and swings for the
children.   Here again is the work of the Lions Club.  It is this same spirit of wanting to do for others which has
prompted them to put on two big Rodeo and Home Coming Days on October 3-4.  The money raised on October 3-
4 will be used to help Evansville and surrounding community.  While at the Rodeo, listen in on the World Series ball
game as given from an Atwater-Kent electric radio.

70 Years Ago (1938):  A Girls’ Drum and Bugle Corps was organized here last week under the direction of Martin
Goodsell, Janesville with Julia Williams, as president; Jeanette Montgomery, vice president; Margaret Mary
Meredith, secretary; Ruth Schwartzlow, treasurer; and Marjean Moore, Gwendolyn Bowen, Betty Jackson and
Bernice Bowen, publicity chairmen.  Charter members are Betty Miller, Gwendolyn Bowen, Ruby and Ruth
Schwartzlow, Marjean Moore, Julia Williams, Ruby Vreeland, Jeanette Montgomery, Betty Jackson, Bernice Bowen,
Delores Vreeland, Ellen Robinson and Margaret Mary Meredith.  Donna Jean Erpenbach will be the mascot.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  Mrs. Alvin W. Golz entertained Tuesday afternoon complimentary to her daughter Tracy
Jean’s first birthday.  The guests were Mrs. John W. Golz and daughter, Jean, Mrs. Wilbur Luchsinger, Mrs. V. H.
Laufenberg, and Mrs. R. L. Collins.  Tuesday was also the second wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Golz.

50 Years Ago (1958):  A large display of models of Pruden Company building frames, and many pictures of
applications of the frames in many types of buildings, is in the window of the Kaltenborn building just east of the
photo studio.  The display was designed and built by A. A. Kaltenborn, so that people in Evansville might get an
idea of the growth and scope of the operations of this Evansville company.  The display coincides with publication
of a large and very handsome new catalog of the company.  Many of the pictures in the catalog were processed by
Kaltenborn, and the display also includes pictures of top company personnel, with resumes of their background.  
The display certainly is the most comprehensive picture of this growing company which has yet been available, and
all Evansville area people interested in our community and its development are strongly urged to stop and see this
display.

40 Years Ago (1968):   Letters of Commendation honoring them for their high performance on the 1968 National
Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test has been award to one student at Evansville High School, Principal Harry J.
Romano has announced.  That named commended student is Sherry A. Golz.  She is among 39,000 students in
the United States who scored in the upper 2 per cent of those who graduated from high school in 1969.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  Mr. and Mrs. James (Jeanette) Jones have moved from their home at 227 W. Main Street to
the home at 530 W. Main Street which they purchased from the Forrest Parish’s.  The Jones’ sold their home to
Mr. and Mrs. Stan (Doris) Graiewski, who have now moved to W. Main Street.  The Parish family purchased the
home of Robert Petterson on Prentice Street and the Pettersons have moved to their new home, which he built on
Milbrant Road.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Senior High School students Lee Spanton and Joe Benash have been selected as 1988
Homecoming queen and King.  Miss Spanton is a basketball cheerleader, a member of Student Council and is
employed at the Piggly Wiggly.  Joe Benash is a running back on the Evansville-Albany football team and also
plays basketball and baseball.  He is a member of the Student Council and the National Honor Society.

10 years ago (1998):  Mary Christiansen, lifetime resident of Evansville, has been approved for mission service to
Cordova, Alaska.  In Cordova, Christiansen will work with National Ministries’ Volunteers in Mission program to help
bring services and teaching to the Cordova Community Christian center.  “It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a
long time,” states Christiansen.  “I have always been active teaching children about Jesus, and I’ll continue to do
that.  Now it will be just a little farther from home.”  Christiansen graduated from Evansville High School and has
lived in the community her whole life, except for nine years.

In Review
First Week of October 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Evansville Band.  This institution of our village has become thoroughly organized and have
now purchased, at considerable expense, a complete set of new instruments.  They are most of them now players
and will need considerable practice before they will feel competent to go before the public as skilled musicians;
they have the ability, energy and capacity, however, and will eventually excel in their profession.  We understand
that they have engaged the services of Mr. E. J. Leavitt, of Stoughton, a thorough musician, to meet with them,
each alternate week, two days, and instruct them in the use of their instruments, and also to arrange music for
them.  Mr. Leavitt has a wide reputation as a band instructor, and we have no doubt that our band here, will obtain
amble instruction from his skill and experience, and make themselves proficient in the science.

130 Years Ago (1878):  The co-partnership heretofore existing between Daniel Greatsinger and I. D. Clifford in the
general blacksmithing business, is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  Settlement can be made by either parties
and all persons indebted to the concern are notified to call and make settlement, by note or cash.  Daniel
Greatsinger, I. D. Clifford.  I have formed a co-partnership in the above business with Alfred Francisco, occupying
a shop immediately across the street from my old stand, where I shall be glad to see my old customers and all new
ones who may favor us with their patronage.  D. Greatsinger.  A. Francisco.  Evansville, Oct. 5, 1878.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Later news relative to the death of Mr. Frank Sherger at Denver Col. reveal the facts that
he died of typhoid fever on Wednesday Oct. 3d, 1888 and a telegram was immediately dispatched to this place by
the undertaker to his wife, Mrs. Jenny Sherger, notifying her of the fact which was received here Wednesday
evening and Mrs. Sherger being in Chicago was immediately notified by telegram of the receipt of the telegram
received here for her and she returned at once and preparing as soon as possible took her departure, with her
little boy, for Denver on Sunday.  Her sister informs us that Mrs. S. received a letter from her husband on Friday
Sept. 28th stating that he was convalesing from a severe sickness with typhoid fever and thought of going south
for his health, but it appears that he was taken with a relapse and died within a short time.  Mrs. Sherger expressed
her opinion before leaving home that she expected it would be necessary to inter his remains at Denver, as the R.
R. Co. would undoubtedly refuse to transport them to this place.

110 Years Ago (1898):  The University has again opened with the largest attendance ever known.  Over 500 new
students are already enrolled against 403 new students last year.  Evansville furnishes for its share, Jay Baldwin,
in the Senior class; Blanch Brigham, Mildred Campbell and Crystal Stair, in the Junior class; Harry Wood and Ed
Savage, in the Sophomore class; Lloyd Spencer, in the freshman class and Miss Olive Dibble in the school of
music, making a total of eight.     

100 Years Ago (1908):  My entire draying business will be sold to anyone wishing to purchase, at just what it
inventories.  There is plenty of business.  For full particulars inquire of J. E. Reilly.

90 Years Ago (1918):    Mrs. R. E. Schuster last Thursday received the following message from the War
Department at Washington:  Washington, D. C., September 26.  Deeply regret to inform you that Private Frank A
Griffith, infantry is officially reported as killed in action, August 26.  [signed] Harris, Acting Adjt. General.  The
deceased was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Will Griffith, who formerly made their home in this city, but who now reside in
Madison, and a brother of Mrs. R. E. Schuster.  Private Griffith answered his call to the draft in October, 1917, and
after a period of training at Camp Grant and Camp Pike, Arkansas, was assigned to duties overseas with his
company I, 58th Infantry, and went overseas last April, his death occurring while in action with his company
somewhere in France.

80 Years Ago (1928):  The Evansville Home Coming put on by the Lions Club is now under way and is drawing big
crowds, many people coming from long distances, not only to see the big show but to mingle with their old friends
and associates.  The Home Coming Day is one which no one should miss, as it is something which has never
before been seen in the locality.  The following is the program for this afternoon and evening.  The admission at
the gate is 50 cents.  10:30 Kittenballl; 12:30 Baseball—Evansville vs. Footville; 2:00 speaker of the day; 2:00
Mule Race; 2:45 Rodeo –Greer’s complete show; 5:00 Auto Race—Model T Fords only—Start and stop—1 mile; 7:
00 evening performance of rodeo; 7:30 Greased Pig; 7:45 Greased Pole; 8:00 Tug of War; 8:30 Dancing on
Midway.  The Hall Shows of Whitewater will be here to provide amusement for grown-ups ad children with their
pony and dog shows.  For a small wagons how this aggregation is stated to be one of the best of the kind which
travels the country.  [Note:  The Hall Shows of Whitewater was operated by Frank Hall, grandson of George
“Popcorn” Hall and son of George Hall, Jr., Evansville’s circus family.]

70 Years Ago (1938):  In full view of their closest kin, Mrs. Theodore Baumgartner, 19, route 1, Brooklyn; her
daughter, Donna Jean, 14 months old; and her niece, Beverly Derr, 3, route 2, Evansville were instantly killed at 2:
56 p.m. Sunday when the automobile driven by Mrs. Baumgartner was struck by a northbound Chicago and
Northwestern passenger train at Derr’s crossing, a mile and one half south of the city on the Magnolia Road.  
Fathers of the two children stood a few rods away across the track and saw the train demolish the automobile in
which the three were riding.  They are Theodore Baumgartner, Brooklyn, husband of Mrs. Baumgartner and father
of Donna Jean, and Fred Derr, Union township, father of Beverly Derr and brother of Mrs. Baumgartner.  Mrs.
Baumgartner, apparently was unaware of the approaching train.  Mrs. Baumgartner was calling attention of the two
children to their fathers walking on the other side of the railroad track and was waving to them when the train
struck the automobile.  Baumgartner and Derr said they realized the train would strike the car but had not time to
warn Mrs. Baumgartner.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Roland Straka, who entered the University of Wisconsin as a freshman this year, is a
member of the University band and was one of the musicians playing at the Wisconsin-Illinois football game last
Saturday afternoon.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Kindergarten Mothers Club will meet next Monday at the kindergarten room.  The serving
committee for the evening will be Mrs. Richard Shea, Mrs. George Walk, Mrs. Gordon Ihus, Mrs. Roger Rasmussen
and Mrs. LaVerne Gallman.  Officers of the group this year include as president, Mrs. Roger Gray; secretary, Mrs.
Robert Heimerl; treasurer, Mrs. George Walk; program chairman, Mrs. Kenneth Ellis; and social chairman, Mrs.
Otto Klug.

40 Years Ago (1968):   The Homecoming court for 1968 are King, Dave Baumgarten and Queen Ann Brunsell,  
John Westby, Steve Pestor, Tim Bergum, Valerie Oscarson, Pam Lowry, Jackie Johnson and Kay Shannon

30 Years Ago (1978):  Homecoming Royalty for 1978 are Queen Janet Blum and King Ken Schmidt.  The court
includes Debbie Lawrence, Sara Hurtley, Sabine Kleiner AFS Student, Joni Feldt, Mary Collins, Carolyn Fells, Barb
Van Galder, Chuck Van, Randy Hatlen, Jeff Miller, Todd Hipke, Greg Gard, Elden Camper, and Guenter Hofstadler
AFS student.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Anyone walking in the door of the Varco-Pruden office, located on Water Street In
Evansville, on Monday would have been greeted by a sign reading “This is a smoke-free building”.  Inside the
message is carried further with “Let’s Clear the Air”.  Monday was the final day of a phased in program to make the
office buildings smoke-free.  Monday was the day there would no longer be smoking allowed in the lunchroom.  

10 years ago (1998):  The Plan Commission members heard of several proposed developments for Evansville.  
The Romano’s plan to build a restaurant on Union Street, in the present Bub’s location.  Ron Thornton, who is
planning to build a convenience store, fast food and gas station at his present location on E. Main Street was
present to talk about his plans.  A fast food with a drive-through would be constructed.  A proposal for elderly
housing was also brought to the plan Commission by John Morning and a representatives for an elderly,
independent, not assisted senior facility, of 24 units to be built to the north of the Ace Hardware.  It would probably
be a two or three story facility with underground parking, elevators, handicap accessible, to provide easy walking
and a place that can offer activity to accommodate their needs.


In Review
Second Week of October 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Mr. Allen Baker, an excellent blacksmith and a hardworking man, has in his shop a couple
of very ingenious machines of his own invention and manufacture.  One cuts quarter inch iron as easily as could
cut off coupons.  The other punches holes in iron as deftly as a conductor can punch tickets.  If Mr. Baker gets a
patent on these machines, it seems as if there must be money in them for him.  We hope he may reap the reward
due his ingenuity.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Ezra Ingalls, of whom we mentioned last week as being dangerously sick of typhoid
fever, died, and was buried Thursday.  He was sick but a little over a week.  His son in Kansas was telegraphed to
and arrived on the morning of the day of burial.  Mr. Clark Richardson, living in the same neighborhood, lost a
daughter of about fourteen years of age, of the same disease.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Our Village Board met Thursday evening.  The first business of importance was relative to
electric lights, two petitions were presented calling for eight lights each, making a total of 16 lights or two groups in
addition to what we now have.  It was moved by Mr. Knepper and seconded by Mr. W. S. Smith that the petitions be
granted, the question was then opened for discussion by President Lee.  Mr. A. S. Baker (Representing the Baker
Mfg. Co., which furnishes the electric lights in this place) was first called upon to state whether there would be any
more expense per light for putting in the lights called for in the petitions then under discussion than was now being
paid for those in use, after looking over the locations selected for the new lights.  Mr. Baker stated that his
company had not anticipated any extra expense for lights that might be wanted in addition to the present system
and did not expect to charge more for the two new groups proposed, than $10 each per year, per light.  Messrs.
Thorp and Mr. Lee argued that our village expenses now were about $2,000 per year, over 25 per cent of which
was now used for street lighting and that this amount was all that we were able to appropriate for this purpose at
present and that those living in our suburbs were benefited by the present lights as much as any person when they
reached them and that the precedent established by such action as could for in said petitions would give all
persons living in the suburbs an equal right to ask for the same.  The petition was defeated.  The question of
renewal of last year’s contract for 56 lights at $10 each was unanimously approved.  The meeting was then
adjourned.

110 Years Ago (1898)   W. W. Gillies received 500 head of sheep from the North, Thursday morning, which he will
feed on his farm near Union.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Owing to the extreme dry period, all citizens are cautioned against the starting of bonfires
at this time.  I trust all will cheerfully comply with this request.  Ray Gillman, Chief, Fire Dept.

90 Years Ago (1918):   In compliance with the state order, Evansville will enter a state quarantine today, as a
precautionary measure against the influenza epidemic.  All schools, churches and movies, pool halls, all places of
amusement, in fact all places where people congregate will be closed until orders are received that the quarantine
may be lifted.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Two years ago the Baker Manufacturing C., of this city, received an order for one of their
windmills to be sent to Dr. J. A. Curran, at the American Board Hospital at Fenchow Mission, Shansi, China.  Word
was later received that the mill was a wonder to the Chinese.  They found that it would do the work that it had
formerly taken four men to do, using Chinese pumps.  Since the shipment of this mill, the Baker Co. has shipped
quite a number of their pumps to this district and it is possible that in time this one mill will prove the means of
being the mechanical missionary which will introduce Evansville made goods into China to the extent that a foreign
market will be created for them.

70 Years Ago (1938):  With twelve youthful Evansville stockmen already entered in the competition, this locality will
be well represented at the annual junior livestock exposition which opens Monday and continues through Thursday
of next week in the University Stock Pavilion in Madison.  The Evansville exhibitors will included Dorothy Mae,
Kenneth, and Vila Disch, Roland Kleinsmith, Betty and Gordon Milbrandt, Spencer Porter, Alvin, Gladys, Morris,
and Ralph Reese, and Earl Viney.

60 Years Ago (1948):  A group of 46 participated in the Luther League bicycle hike and wiener roast last Sunday
under the supervision of the adult leaders, Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn Lewis, and Mr. and Mrs. Harold Brunsell, Jr.  The
boys and girls peddled over 12 miles of country and halted in a picturesque spot near the old mill stream at
Cooksville where they did justice to the wiener roast
.  
50 Years Ago (1958):  Dr. V. L. Hagen has located in Evansville to establish a practice of chiropractic.  Dr. Hagen
received his four years of chiropractic education at the Palmer School of Chiropractic.  Upon graduation he was a
staff member of the Primghar Chiropractic Clinic, Primghar, Ia.  Dr. and Mrs. Hagen have one son, Brent Chris.  
The office and residence is at 113 East Main St.

40 Years Ago (1968):  The National Farm Headquarters of the Nixon-Agnew Agriculture Committee, located in the
Review Office, was the site of a rally in the final three weeks of the presidential campaign.  Those attending the
rally were told that “Richard Nixon is the only hope” for revitalized American Agriculture and the committee is going
to help him get elected.  Frank Gildner, Editor of the Review, is the National Executive Director of the Nixon-Agnew
for Agriculture.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Evansville Veterinary Clinic is planning an open house for the public to view their new
facility on Maple Street.  The event will be held on Sunday, Oct. 22, from 1 to 4 p.m.  The clinic is being moved
from the previous location on East Main Street to the larger, better equipped clinic, which will offer better service
and care.  Dr E. W. Krueger started the Evansville Clinic in 1939 on East Main Street, taking over from Rudy
Schuster.  Prior to that time the building had been used as a livery stable.  Thus the location on East Main Street
has always been associated with animals.  The clinic serves an area of 15 miles radious from Evansville.  Most of
the veterinary work is done in the area on large animals, especially cows, as this section of Wisconsin is so
important in the dairy industry.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  Unanimous votes by members of the Evansville City Council last Tuesday night gave
approval to Mayor Chris Eager’s appointment of Charles DiPiazza as the new police chief.  Eager told the Council
that DiPiazza will assume the job within 30 days from Wednesday of last week.  

10 years ago (1998):  At the school board meeting Monday night, Dr. Thomas Benzinger, Superintendent of the
Evansville Schools, tendered his resignation into retirement effective June 30, 1999.  The motion to accept the
resignation was approved and President Phil Hamilton said, “Thank you, Tom.”

In Review
Third Week of October 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Episcopal services are held every other Thursday evening at the Congregational church.  
Rev. Mr. Spaulding, rector of a society in Madison, officiates.  

130 Years Ago (1878):  Married.  Oct. 16, 1878, by Rev. E. Robinson, at the residence of the bride’s parents, Mr.
Frank Gifford, of Porter and Miss Lizzie Smith, of Evansville, Wis.

120 Years Ago (1888):  For sawing an electric light pole, C. A. Libby was fined $8. and cost, amounting to $10.49.  
Mr. Libby complained of himself, stating in extenuation that the pole was set in a way to obstruct the entrance to his
house and the village refusing to remove the same, took the task upon himself.  He threatens to contest the
legality of the ordinance, made for such purpose, in higher courts.

110 Years Ago (1898)   Frank Gibbs, Jr., arrived from Chicago, Saturday evening, accompanied by Dr. Smith, Jr.,
who went after Mr. Gibbs, who is badly afflicted with rheumatism.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The Baker Manufacturing Company people inform us that for the past three months they
have had the best run of business that they have had for a long time and that there was nothing about their
business to indicate hard times.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Last Saturday the Baker Manufacturing Co. raised, just east of their office, a nice steel flag
pole that rises fifty-three feet above the ground.  A ten-foot flag has been ordered.  This flag will be in plain sight of
all passing trains and all roads into town and will help the patriotic appearance of the city.

80 Years Ago (1928):  At the special meeting Tuesday evening, the City council authorized the City Water and
Light Commission to let the contract for drilling the well to the depths of 1,000 feet to the J. P. Miller Artesian Well
Co., of Chicago.  The Water and Light commission was also authorized , as soon as the well is finished and
accepted, to provide the necessary power and pumping equipment to pump the water from so great a depth, with
whatever funds which are at their disposal.  At the depth of 1,000 feet they expect to stroke what is known as the
Lake Superior strata of water, which runs across the state and far into Illinois.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  The cast for the play “Banners Flying” consists of Luanne Brunsell, Helen Benson, Jeanette
Montgomery and Ruth Christensen.  This play with two others will be presented October 25th in the gym.  
Committees for the outside work of the plays are Roberta Collins and Luanne Brunsell, tickets; Betty Roderick and
Mary Jane Anderson, properties; Betty Millard, Angela Bewick, Betty Brunsell and Patty Guilfoyle, makeup; and
Bob Brunsell and Fletcher Pullen, scenery.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Evansville 4-H club celebrated 100 per cent achievement record among its 71 members at
its annual banquet, held Friday night in the Grange Hall here.  Wayne Disch was toastmaster, and talks were given
by Dr. E. W. Krueger, the club director of livestock projects, Morris Jensen, Ruth Krause, Harry Patterson, Phil
Jorgensen, Mrs. Kenneth Dunbar, John Brunsell, Clark Beal, Mrs. Harold Klusmeyer, Mrs. Horace Franklin, Janice
Leeder, Mrs. Walter Clark, Hollister Raymond, Master Orville Devlin, of Waucoma Grange, Clarence Grundahl,
Evansville High School Agriculture Teacher, Mrs. Helen Felts, County Home Agent, Mr. Felts, and County Agent, R.
T. Glassco.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  King Dick Moore and Queen Karen Bennett have been chosen to reign over homecoming
festivities Thursday and Friday at Evansville High School.  Members of the court are Seniors Kay Larsen and Rollie
Propst, Juniors Jeannie Golz and Ken Wood, Sophomores Janet Smith and Mike McCormick and Freshmen Karen
Hermanson and Tom Hatlen.  Homecoming activities officially begin with the annual Skit Nite Thursday evening in
the high school auditorium.  Immediately following the skits a snake dance will form in front of the school and, led
by Dick Butler, Pep Club President, will wind through town ending at the bonfire, where a pep rally will be held.  
Friday’s festivities will begin with a homecoming parade.  The Big Game—Evansville vs. Waterloo—will begin at 7:
45.  The Top Hatters will play for the homecoming dance.  

40 Years Ago (1968):   Clark Prudhon, chairman of the Board of Varco-Pruden, Inc., today announced the
formation of a Canadian enterprise to manufacture, sell and erect metal buildings.  The new firm, Robertson V-P
Canada, was formed as a joint venture between Robertson-Irwin Limited of Canada and Varco-Pruden Inc.,  Varco-
Pruden, Inc. is a subsidiary of Fuqua Industries, is a leading United States manufacturer of pre-engineered metal
buildings, for use in commercial, industrial, recreational and institutional fields.  

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Evansville Auto Parts business has been purchased by Robbie Petterson and Robert
Helgesen from Hildus Tofte.  The business will continue to operate at its present location until early 1979.  It is
anticipated that the business will then move to a new location at 225 E. Main Street, in the tobacco warehouse.  
The Auto Parts Building at 26 West Main Street has been purchased by Arnold Willis and Larry Lauke.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  At 4 p.m. October 13, the Evansville Firemen were called to the Gerald Stewart farm on
Stewart Road in Union Township.  According to Fire Chief Edd McCaffery, Stewart had been burning rubbish and it
got away into the grass and into the woods.  About two acres were burned, mostly grass and it barely got into the
woods.  They were on the scene until 5:30 pm.

10 years ago (1998):  Senior Mike Thornton ran with a small pack of runners for the miles when he started to pull
away.  Only senior Nick Meis of Platteville stayed with Mike until the 2nd mile.  Mike cruised to an easy win over
Nick on a tough course in 16:59.  This was Mike’s 2nd win at the Baertschi Course in two years.  Jaret DeKelver
also had an excellent race by placing 19th for a medal.  Ann Knudtson moved up to 4th place from a ninth place
finish last year with a time of 16:30.  Thea Heimerl won a medal by placing 11th.  Other top finishers for the Girls
Team were Lindsay Albright, Angie Olsen, and Amy Hauri.

In Review
Fourth Week of October 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Miss Marcia C. Palmer, who formerly owned a millinery establishment in Winston and
Bennett’s building, has sold it to Mrs. Blake, of Janesville, and has removed to Joliet, Ill.  [Note:  the Winston and
Bennett store was at 1 West Main Street, the current location of Rock and Rollz.]

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Horace Ingalls, of Scottville, Kansas, and Miss A. R. Leavitt, of Wyandott, Kansas, were
married by Rev. E. Robinson, Oct. 24, at the residence of the bride’s uncle, E. F. Ellis, Esq. of Union.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mr. Stone, agent of Wisconsin Telephone Company, spent a couple days in town,
canvassing for a line from Evansville, connecting with the outside world.  Instead of connecting direct with
Janesville, where most of our business over the line would be done, it will connect with a line from Albany, Monroe,
Brodhead, and elsewhere, points not really in commercial intercourse with Evansville.  We understand he
succeeded very well.  But what does Evansville want of a telephone via Crane Creek, Butts’ Corners &c., to
Janesville?

110 Years Ago (1898):  City Council Minutes:  Estimated cost of maintaining the streets, sidewalks, bridges, parks,
alleys, etc. $1,000; street lights, $1,000; fire department $350; salaries, $1,000; loan city certificate, $1,000;
Incidentals and miscellaneous expenditures, $404.70.  Whereas, the sum total needed appropriation the present
year is the sum of $5,762.85.  It becomes necessary to lay a tax of 9.5 mils on each and every dollar of the
assessed valuation of said city.  

100 Years Ago (1908):  This is the last week before election, and all the big guns who can be secured by both
parties are in New York, fighting tooth and nail for the vote of the Empire state, believing, and probably truly, that if
they can get the 34 electoral votes of that state that they stand a good change of winning.  At this time everything
that we can see to judge from point to the election of Taft and the Republican national ticket.  All the polls made of
the situation and the straw votes indicate that the odds are heavily in favor of Taft and the Republican ticket.  In
the state with Gov. Davidson as the standard bearer and Senator La Follette whooping it up for the stump in his
old time vigorous style of campaigning, it is only a question of the size of the majority.  While none of us expect to
reach the 165,000 plurality received by President Roosevelt, it is sure to be a good big one, as Wisconsin is one of
the strongholds of the Republican party.

90 Years Ago (1918):   It is reported that Irene Montgomery, who enlisted as a Red Cross nurse in the August
drive and who has been studying nursing at the Mercy Hospital at Janesville for some time, is quite sick with
pneumonia that developed from a case of the influenza.

80 Years Ago (1928):  The dedication services at the Congregational Church Sunday evening in honor of the new
lighting fixtures were very impressive.  There was special music by the choir, after which the pastor read a Bible
selection pertaining to the coming of Light, all the splendid lights flashed on with a dazzling and impressive affect.  
The services for the occasion was gotten up by the pastor and was responsive in character, he taking the lead and
the congregation responding.  It was the first time the congregation or the public had seen the new lighting fixtures
and they were much admired, they being very fine, consisting of a circle of long colored lamps, one circle in front of
the church and one in the back, giving an abundance of soft mellow light.  They have put in a new oil burning
furnace, new carpets, and rugs and added settees and chairs at the back of the church, which, with the new all
decorations gives this congregation a beautiful and modern place of worship.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Miss Evelyn Rodd, daughter of Mrs. Fred W. Rodd, 218 North fourth Street, was married to
Donavan R. Every, son of Mrs. Edward Every, 263 West Main Street, at a ceremony performed at 2:30 p.m.
Wednesday in Keokuck, Ia.  Following a wedding trip through the Ozark mountains, they will make their home at
the Rodd residence.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Wilbur S. Tupper, a native of Evansville, died in Calif. Sunday, Oct. 10 and was buried there
with private services the following day.  Mr. Tupper was a resident of Whittier, Calif., for 18 years and for many
years was a lecturer in English at Whittier College.  He was a world traveler and was widely known as a lecturer.  
He is survived by his wife, Annabel F. Tupper, a step-son, Albert Upton, and a brother, John Tupper, San Jose,
Calif.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The cast of the Little Theatre three-act comedy, “Lo and Behold” are Dick Butler, John
Willoughby, Betty Zamzow, Jack McElroy, Howard Becher, Evelyn Willoughby, Ed Zamzow, and Jeanne
Luchsinger.  The play is directed by Mrs. Peter Hamacher and will be presented Oct. 30 and 31 at the high school
auditorium.

40 Years Ago (1968):   Airman David J. Persons, son of Mr. and Mrs. Donald H. Persons, 218 Maple St., Evansville
has been graduated from a U. S. Air Force Technical School at Sheppard AFB, Texas.  He was trained as a
protective coating specialist and has been assigned to a unit of the Strategic Air Command at Castle AFB, Calif.  
He is a 1967 graduate of Evansville High School.

30 Years Ago (1978):  For the past 10 years the state has kept their eye on the Highway 14 viaduct, which crosses
the railroad tracks in Evansville.  This week, the state sent men to survey the area for the proposed removal of the
viaduct.  Many public hearings will be held at the city before any action will be taken.  Costs of repairing the bridge
have been estimated as being too high and therefore removal of the viaduct is being considered.  Old telephone
and electric poles are used to support the viaduct.

20 Years Ago (1988):  At the council meeting on Tuesday night of last week, following a public hearing on the
rezoning for property on N. Madison Street, approval was given to Mike Darrah to rezone from R-1 Residential to B-
3 Large Scale Commercial.  Darrah plans to construct a car wash on the site, removing the existing house.  Darrah
states the plans have been approved by Rock County Planners and an engineer for a ranch-style building which
should blend in with surroundings.

10 years ago (1998):  Jake Moore, local Evansville wood carver is practicing once again for yet another park
project “Winnie the Pooh” will soon be looking out at you as you enter.  Another tree has been given to the “Master
Carver” that is located hear the entrance to the park by the pool.  Jake anticipates once he’s got enough practice
in on this “Pooh” that the real thing will take about 10-12 hours.  Jake also commented that while this was being
formulated, he received a call from a father from Janesville needing a “Winnie The Pooh” for his daughter.  By the
time these projects are through, Jake will be an expert on “Pooh” and maybe “Tigger” will be next.

In Review
First Week of November 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  The Result in Rock County.  Magnolia, the last town in this county to be heard from has
reported and gave a Republican majority of 88 to Grant and Colfax.  This makes the Republican majority 3,511 in
Rock County.  

130 Years Ago (1878):  Married.  At the residence of the bride’s parents, in Brooklyn, Nov. 6, by Rev. E. Robinson,
Mr. Theodore E. Devereux of Union and Miss Lizzie A. Jones, Brooklyn.

120 Years Ago (1888):  The Union Literary Society meets Friday evening, Nov. 16th program as follows:  Address,
Mrs. Tolles; Declamation, Leslie Davis; Recitation, Alice Keegan; Song, Mrs. Julia Gillies; Essay, Mrs. Brigham;
Recitation, Dora Frost; Declamation, Eugene McMillan; Song, John Wall; Paper, Mrs. Frost and Mrs. Coggon;
Music, Choir.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Miss Emma Petersen and Mr. Arthur Ringhand were married at the residence of Herman
Petersen on Jug Prairie at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, 1898.  Rev. Eilert of this city officiating.  About 150 guests
were present.  The gifts from friends were many and valuable.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Judge Wm. H. Taft was elected to the presidency of the United States Tuesday by a vote
that gave him 311 votes in the electoral college to Bryan’s 172—a clear majority for the Judge of 139.  In the local
election , Evansville, always safely Republican, gave the head of the ticket about a four to one vote, the figures
being, Taft, 394; Bryan, 100; Chaffin, 37; Dabbs, 2, a total of 533 votes.  The town of Union vote was Taft, 151;
Bryan, 50.  Magnolia: Taft, 106; Bryan, 71.  Center: Taft, 155; Bryan 47.  Rock County gave Taft a plurality of
4,500.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Owing to the impossibility of securing steel for the construction of the arch service board
over the Main street bridge, this project for the present has had to be abandoned, and this week the carpenters
erected a large service board covering the entire front of the vacant lot just west of the Central House, which will
be used as an honor board till the iron and steel conditions change so that those materials are obtainable.  The
new board is at least twenty feet in height and will present a very neat appearance.  The carpenter work was done
by Walton and Winston and it is understood that the decorations and lettering will be done by Heavey of Edgerton.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Monday morning, [October 29] about 5:15 o’clock N. R. Funk night watchman at the D. E.
Wood Butter Co., discovered fire in the mens’ locker room in the second story of the building.  He at once gave the
alarm and in record time the fire department was on the ground and, with two streams of water turned on, the fire
did not last long and nothing but the room and its contents were damaged.  However, the fire made such a smoke
that it penetrated all parts of the plant, where it tainted all oils, barrels and boxes with the smoke odor, making it
impossible to use any of them, as oleomargarine and butter take the taste of any smoke or other scent which
comes near them.  Two car loads of oleomargarine which were just ready for shipment were also made unfit to
market and will have to be sold for soap grease.  The cooling rooms for their dressed poultry were also badly
damaged by smoke and water.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  The Gillman clothing store at 6 East Main Street, one of Evansville’s oldest and most
reliable mercantile establishments which observed its 50th anniversary on Saturday, July 16, has completed final
plans and preparations for a closing out sale which opens tomorrow, Friday, and will continue until all of the stock,
to the bare walls, is sold.  The sale will be conducted here by H. F. Mayfield, representative of the J. H. Voll Sales
Service, Madison, who arrived in Evansville last Thursday to make preparations.  The Gillman store, operated by
Chief of Police Fred Gillman and his brother, Nay, was founded here about 51 years ago by Freeman and
Maschler who operated the business in partnership until 1888 when the late Ray Gillman, father of the Gillman
brothers, purchased the Freeman interest.  The firm then became known as Gillman and Maschler.  Six months
later, Mr. Gillman purchased the Maschler interest and took in his son, Fred, as a new partner.  Nay joined his
father and brother in the business a short time later and the store was operated as the Ray Gillman and Sons
Clothing store until it was incorporated in 1907.  Mr. Gillman died Dec. 8, 1926 and since that time the store has
been operated by the two brothers.  Chief Gillman is the oldest merchant in Evansville.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  Halloween vandalism approached a peak of danger Saturday night when someone stuffed a
charge of blasting powder into a Civil War cannon in Lake Leota park and lighted a long fuse.  The resulting
explosion destroyed the cannon, blowing one fragment of the old muzzle loader as far as three blocks and shook
buildings in the downtown section more than a mile away.  The blast occurred at 10:40 p.m. Saturday, just 10
minutes after police had checked the park for vandalism and while they were investigating an accident downtown,
Police Chief O. E. Nimmo said.  Sleepers were aroused from their slumbers and many telephone calls were made
as townspeople sought to determine the cause of the explosion which some first thought to be thunder.  The
cannon was one which had stood in front of the city hall for many years and had been moved to the park in recent
years.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Rock County 4-H Achievement Day was held Nov. 1, at Janesville Junior High School.  
Evansville 4-H members receiving awards were Karren Algrim, style revue, junior council; Linda Grundahl, style
revue, clothing, home ec. leader; Pearl Prudhon, style revue; Bernice Dunbar, food preservation, frozen foods;
Judy Ballard, junior style revue; Joyce Norum, junior style review; Richard Reese, Borden dairy award; Barbara
Robinson, junior beef; John Bullard, senior conservation; Kathryn Robinson, senior photography.  The following
members were on the county honor roll and received cash awards donated by J. A. Craig; Linda Grundahl, Kathryn
Robinson, Ruth Ann Robinson, Bernice Dunbar, Jean Templeton, Susan Grundahl, Barbara Robinson, Ronald
Wood, John Bullard, Reid Francis, Terry George and Joan Palmer.  Paul Klitzman, Evansville FFA received a
poultry plaque.

40 Years Ago (1968):   Evansville voters gave the majority of their votes on Tuesday to Republican presidential
hopeful, Richard M. Nixon in a final tally of 704 votes with 559 votes for Hubert Humphrey and 70 votes for George
Wallace.  Of a possible 1,400 to 1,500 votes here in Evansville, 1,308 votes were personally cast at the polling
place in the Fire Station.  Absentee ballots had not yet been counted and therefore are not in this total.  There was
a steady stream of voters from the opening hour of 8 a.m. right up to the closing hour of 8 p.m.  At no time was
there a long line and all procedures moved along smoothly here.  Excellent voting weather prevailed the entire day.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Evansville Blue Devil football team finished the season 10-0.  The Devil’s also finished
Number One in the final WIAA state football poll.  Now the Devil’s will be the first Rock Valley team to go into the
state playoffs.

20 Years Ago (1988):  The Evansville Country Club located on Cemetery Rd., fared well in a recent Capital Times
article written by Staff Writer, Rob Schultz.  Schultz wrote the following:  Best Greens:  This honor goes to the
Evansville Country Club, the little 9-hole layout that is more interesting than most of the 18-hole courses in this
area.  Best 9-hole Course to Play:  Evansville Country Club.  This course excels over most of the other courses in
this area.  First, friendly behind-the-counter personnel greet you when you arrive, then you tee off and play a
gorgeous layout that’s neither too difficult nor too easy for any golfer.  To top it off, the course is in great
condition.  

10 years ago (1998):  Junior Ann Knudtson became the first Evansville female runner to qualify for the State Cross
Country Meet in school history.  At the Evansville Sectional, Ann started the race strong like she has all season
and was running about 25th at the mile mark.  Evansville supporters gave Ann the confidence she needed to start
her surge.  On the final hill Ann charged the finish line and no one was going to pass her.  Ann had just run the
best race of her life to place 12th in 15:31.  She beat all but two of her competition for the Sectional meet.  Senior
Mike Thornton, competing in his third State Cross Country Meet, placed 2nd out of 111 runners.  This was the best
placing of an Evansville cross Country Runner in school history.  Mike’s strong 2nd place finish time of 16:05
placed him on the All State Team.  Mike plans to attend UW-Madison next fall.




In Review
Second Week of November 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  School Teacher Wanted in Eagle District No. 3, in the town of Porter.  One that can
understand book-keeping will be preferred.  J. W. Webb, Clerk of district.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Evansville butchers are selling sirloin steak at 12 ½ cents, round at 10 cents, and boiling
pieces at 7 cents.  But then we have nice juicy steak, and so tender that it almost falls to pieces in one’s mouth.  
The fattest beef we have seen for many a day hung by the gambrels at Byron’s market, and was a cow purchased
of Stevens & Co.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Died.  Monday, Nov. 12, 1888, at his home in the village of Union of organic heart disease,
Mr. Elisha Fairbanks.  Funeral at his late home today, Dr. L. N. Wheeler, is expected to officiate as clergyman,
Messrs. Potter and Hartley, Undertakers.  The remains will be interred in the Evansville cemetery.  The deceased
was one of the early settlers of this place where he was engaged in the mercantile business for a number of years,
with his brother, who died several years since when he sold out his mercantile business and engaged in farming
near Union village, three miles north of here, but as old age came creeping on and his health failed he
discontinued farming and has since resided in the village of Union.  He leaves a wife and several children to mourn
the loss of their father.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Gone to his reward.  After a long lingering illness from disease contracted in the service of
his country, comrade Wilson Brown, aged 58 years, passed to his final reward on Sunday morning, Nov. 6, 1898.  
Comrade Brown was born in Scotland, became a member of Co. D, 13th Regt. Wis. Vol. Inft., Nov. 1, 1861, was
honorably discharged from this service in 1864.  He was mustered into T. L. Sutphen  G.A.R. Post No. 41, of this
city, on March 8, 1883, of which he remained a most faithful and valiant member until his death.  He was not only
highly prized by this society, but a host of friends in this city and at his home in Magnolia, where his funeral was
held under the auspices of the Grand Army of the Republic, Nov. 7, at 1:30 o’clock, Rev. Newton officiating  
clergyman.  Comrade Brown leaves a most devoted and highly respected wife, one daughter and three sons, who
have the sympathy of this entire community in their great loss, for no greater loss can come upon a family than the
taking away of such a husband and father.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Wm. Mueller and wife, their four sons, Herman, Paul, Wm. and Arthur, four daughters,
Rose, Anna, Mrs. Lizzie Klugg and Mrs. Ella Geshke, all of Milwaukee, were the guests of Fred Golz and wife last
Thursday, the occasion for their visit being the marriage of George Golz to Miss Clara Mueller.  The young
husband has purchased a farm near his fathers and the newly married couple will reside there.
      
90 Years Ago (1918):   Washington D. C., Nov. 11—President Wilson issued a formal proclamation this morning
announcing that the armistice was signed.  In Evansville Monday all business was suspended while people
celebrated the Hun surrender.  Old settlers say that there has never been a celebration like it in this locality since
the fall of Richmond, in the Sixties, and that this occasion for crowd and enthusiasm far outranked even that
momentous occasion.  One of the touching incidents of the celebration was the fact that the same bell was rung in
this celebration by the same man who rang it in the celebration of the fall of Richmond.  “Dick” Ballard, who in the
sixties was a young man and a member of the Wisconsin State Guard, rang the bell of the old Freewill Baptist
Church to celebrate Grant’s victory.  Monday he rang the same bell to celebrate the downfall of autocracy and a
crazy Kaiser, the bell now being in the Free Methodist Church, and it was one of the proudest moments of Mr.
Ballard’s life, though a man now in the seventies, that he should be strong enough to again pull the rope that
pealed forth the glad tidings of victory, first for the freedom of human slaves, and later for the freedom of the world
from the slavery and oppression of autocracy.  [Note:  The church bell was in  the building now occupied by the
Grace Independent Baptist Church.]

80 Years Ago (1928):  Evansville broke all previous records Tuesday for a state election contest, by getting out a
vote of 1,115, which is the largest vote ever cast here in a state or national election, the city having exceeded this
vote but once, five years ago in a mayoralty election.  Especial pains were taken by the Lions Club and the
different political organizations to get out the vote, conveyances being furnished those who were unable to get to
the polls any other way.  The results of the election here show that Hoover and Curtis won over A. Smith and
Robinson by a majority of 644.  Walter Kohler, while he ran slightly behind his ticket has a majority over his
opponent of 514.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  Fire of undetermined origin breaking out at 4 p.m. Sunday completely destroyed a large
barn and combination hog house and machine shed in the Kenneth Courtier farm, one and one-half miles west of
the city, despite a driving rain storm which had continued throughout the afternoon.  Evansville firemen responded
to the alarm but the blaze had already made such headway that little could be done, except to prevent the spread
of the fire to other nearby buildings.  The barn, a 32 by 64-foot structure, and the hog house and machine shed,
20 by 40, were burned to the ground.  The silo caught fire and was badly damaged though firemen managed to
save the ensilage.  The chemicals, used in extinguishing the silo blaze are believed to have ruined the ensilage
making it unfit for feed.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Century Farm certificates signed by Governor Rennebohm were given to Union Township
owners, Lawrence Bullard, section 14, acquired by Stillman Bullard, 1846.  Wallace and Neva Richardson Crocker,
section 8, acquired by John K. Richardson, 1847; Milo Cushman, section 28 and 29, acquired by Washington
Higday, 1842; Lloyd Hubbard, section 16, acquired by Jedediah Hubbard, 1846.  Center Township owner receiving
a certificate was Edson Brown, section 24, acquired by Elijah Brown in 1846.   Porter Township owners receiving
certificates were J. K. P. Porter, section 5, acquired by Joseph Kinnicotte Potter Porter, 1845;  Mrs. Gertrude
Newell Worthing, section 6, acquired by John Newell, date not given.  Magnolia township certificates went to Ben H.
Babcock, section 9, acquired by Richard Babcock, 1848; Walter Croak, section 7, acquired by James Croak, 1848
and Leslie T. Townsend, section 24, acquired by H. Townsend, 1846.

50 Years Ago (1958):  The honor roll for the Junior High School for the first nine weeks of school has been
announced as follows:  A average, Lois Becher, 8th grade; B or above, 8th grade, Sally Capron, Judy Bunde,
Marcia Erbs, Pamela Erstad, Norma Estes, Gerene Feldt, Kim Gill, Sue Graham, Patricia Hall, Donna Horne,
Barbara Kimberley, Joan Palmer, Beth Popanz, Sharon Sarow, Jane Willoughby, Susan Willoughby; B or above 7th
grade, Connie Allen, Janet Ballard, Karen Brunsell, Sandra Chaney, Joetta Davis, Chester Des Rochers, Paul
Milbrant, Patricia Olsen, Mary Patterson, Sheryl Thornton, Rhonda Thompson.

40 Years Ago (1968):   The earth tremors experienced Saturday morning in the middle west were felt in Evansville
by a few citizens.  Mrs. Leon S. Patterson was talking on the telephone when the dishes in her cupboard began to
rattle.  In attempting to account for the disturbance she left the phone and went to the window to see if a large
truck was passing the house.  She was not aware of the cause until later in the day when she learned of the tremor
at which time she reported it to the City Hall.  One other report came in to the City Hall.  Chester Des Rochers
reported that the Wyler School in the same locality as the Patterson home, suffered slight damage to one of the
buildings.  A small amount of plaster was shaken from the wall and pictures were knocked off of Mr. Des Rochers’
desk.  Also Mrs. Frank Meyers, who is employed at the Wyler School, stated that bottles on a table in what is
known as the “middle building’ were shaken.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Vandals caused an estimated $5,000 damage at the Evansville Country Club early
Saturday, November 4, according to the Rock County Sheriff’s Department.  Seven privately owned golf carts were
damaged which were parked with a group of other carts beside a maintenance building on the golf course.  The
fifth green was also damaged.  Apparently the carts were started and driven into each other and onto the green,
tearing up the turf.  The golf course had closed its gates at midnight and the damage was discovered by
employees Saturday when they came to work.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Thirty-one year old Mitch Hull, an Evansville High School graduate, has been named head
wrestling coach at Purdue University.  He was a two-time All American and Big Ten champion at 190 pounds.  Hull
states that his goal has always been to coach in the Big Ten.  

10 years ago (1998):  Owners of Jubilee Clay Forms, Matthias and Lisa James will be hosting an Open Studio
Saturday and Sunday at their location, 7821 N. S. Fifth Street, corner of Fourth and Fifth Streets, near the old
water tower.  In the fall of 1997 Matthias and Lisa moved to Evansville.  Mattias can be seen most of the day during
the winter season throwing his pots in his studio shop behind his home.  He spends this time doing experiments
and building up stock as well as a project near the shop, his own outside gas kiln.  The garage has been
remodeled and is in the final state of being a finished studio.  Matthias looks forward to this as the new windows
are definitely a plus.  

In Review
Third Week of November 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  You will be pleased to learn that the Evansville Seminary, which has been struggling under
embarrassment for several years, is finally relieved financially.  The friends of the Seminary for a time feared that it
must fall for want of means to remove a debt of long standing with which it has been embarrassed, but the citizens
at length concluded that they could not spare its influence, nor could they endure the mortification of failure which
they must feel if the debt was not discharged.  The board resolved to raise $7,000 for the purpose or let the
property be sold to pay the debts against it.  The building is being thoroughly repaired and will be ready for
opening of the winter term on the first of December.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Administrator’s Sale.  Notice is hereby given, that I will sell at Public Auction at the late
residence of C. W. Hyne in the town of Union, Friday, Nov. 29th, at 10 o’clock a.m.; 10 cows; 7 calves; 1 bull,
coming 2 years old; 1 colt, 1 year; 1 colt, 3 yrs, and other property.  Terms made known at the day of sale.  I. M.
Bennett, Administrator.

120 Years Ago (1888):  The fire boys had the steam engine out Tuesday morning for the purpose of filling the fire
cisterns for winter use, some of these reservoirs are leaking slightly and it was thought best to have them well filled
before hard freezing weather.

110 Years Ago (1898):  A committee consisting of Mrs. Wm. Boyd, Mrs. T. C. Richardson and Mrs. Wm. Magee of
the Woman’s Literary Club, met Friday afternoon with Miss Eva Campbell and organized an auxiliary of the waiting
members.  It should be understood that this club proper only consists of twenty-five actual members and there is
always a number waiting to join when one drops out, and it was for the accommodation of this waiting class that this
auxiliary was organized that they might receive the benefit of the same course of study as the club proper.  Mrs. C.
E. Cummings was appointed chairman and Miss Eva Campbell secretary of this auxiliary, which will meet the same
evenings as the club proper.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Having moved back to my own home, corner Lincoln and Longfield Streets, I will continue
to do dressmaking and ladies’ tailoring there.  Good work and reasonable prices.  Also having provided myself with
the necessary equipment, I am now prepared to dry clean, press and repair ladies’ and children’s clothing.  Also to
launder fine shirt waists, napery, lacy and embroidered pieces, lace curtains, etc.  Every means will be used to do
the work with the least possible injury to colors and fabrics, Mrs. Alice A. Robinson.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Charles R. Van Hise, president of the Wisconsin State University died at a hospital in
Milwaukee where he had been for a minor operation on his nose.  Blood poisoning set in, however.  Charles Van
Hise was born in Fulton from where his parents moved to Union when that place was a larger place than
Evansville.  From there his parents moved to this city, where they kept a store where Charley Bennett now runs his
produce house.  His parents later moved to Kansas, where Mr. Van Hise, then a young man refused to go, casting
his lot with Wisconsin.  

80 Years Ago (1928):  The well drilling outfit of the J. Miller Artesian Well Co., of Chicago, to whom was recently let
the job of drilling the new city well at the waterworks plant, arrived in the city the first of the week and will be
erected at once and work begun.  The outfits take two large flat cars to carry it and in the shipment they have
included a car of coal for the engine which furnishes the power for the drill.  The rig will resemble in some respects
the big oil rigs which are used in the oil fields, with the exception that the derrick is not so high.  According to the
contract, the well is to go down to what is known as the Lake Superior water strata, which in this locality runs at
about 1,000 feet below the surface.  It is stated that the water from this Lake Superior strata is so soft that when
they have this water in the city standpipe, there will be no further use for cisterns or water softeners.  After the well
is under way it is the intention to run a double shift, so as to hurry it along.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  The Congregational choir comprised of 17 voices will present a musicale at 2:30 p.m. next
Sunday in the church auditorium here under the direction of Robert Erstad, music director.  The afternoon’s
program will include several selections by the choir, vocal solos by William Wood, Miss Peggy Ludlow, Robert
Erstad, Kenneth Ellis and Miss Marjean Moore, and piano numbers by the Misses Angela Bewick and Ruth
Morrison.  

60 Years Ago (1948):  A large group of Evansville volunteer firemen and others with equipment spent last Sunday
at Lake Koshkonong where they joined other groups in searching for the body of Thomas Hampel, who was
drowned two weeks ago.  If the body is not recovered before next Sunday the local volunteers will go to the north
shore of the lake again to aid in the search.  The lake, rough from the start, last Sunday became worse during the
day, with waves threatening to swamp the boats.  In shallow water, the waves were so high that some of the boat
operators said their motors rammed the lake bottom as the craft pitched badly.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  A sale of 50 calves was conducted Saturday, Nov. 8, at the “Maples,” Robinson farm west of
town.  Dean George served as auctioneer.  Top calf went to Mike Dolan, Durand, Ill., and second highest calf was
sold to David Soldweidel of Madison.  Most calves were purchased by 4-H and FFA members who plan to feed and
fatten them for next year’s showing.

40 Years Ago (1968):   The cast of “Of Poems, Youth and Spring” captured the sectional title land are vying for the
State Title.  This is the first time a one-act play for Evansville has reached the state contest level.  The director is J.
Peter Shaw, and the cast includes Rebecca Franklin, Corrine Algrim, Bill Meredith, Ann Brunsell, Bob Olmsted,
Steve Brockert, Pam Lowry, Susan Quinn, Michele Hall and Paula DesRochers.  The crew includes Andy Wyse,
Ann Willis, Lynne Baltzer, Sharon Hansen, Teresa Schnell, Shirlee Christensen and Jane Spratler.

30 Years Ago (1978):  Last week workmen at the J. C. McKenna Middle School discovered a cistern, while digging
a place to set the new [fuel] tank to serve the school.  The cistern apparently dates back to when the school
served as the high school.  The water has been allowed to drain away, but it was exciting to see the huge gaping
hole, with so much water, right in the school yard.

20 Years Ago (1988):  New Police Chief Charles DiPiazza was sworn in Sunday by City Clerk, Bob Poffenberger at
the City Hall, with Mayor Chris Eager, Aldermen Kris Raymond, Richard Modaff and Ron Buttchen in attendance.  

10 years ago (1998):  Ty Grovesteen, former Evansville High School football great, was considered the most
valuable player last Saturday at Perkins Stadium in Whitewater, where he led UW-Whitewater to a 38-20 WIAC win
over UW-LaCrosse.  In throwing for two touchdowns and running for two more, Grovesteen helped the Warhawks
earn a share of their second straight conference title, which was divided this year between Whitewater, Eau Claire,
River Falls and Stevens Point.  “It all boils down to No. 12,” Warhawk Coach, Bob Berezowitz, formerly of
Evansville, said.  “He’s made things happen all year.  In my opinion he’s the greatest quarterback to ever play
here,” he said.

In Review
Fourth Week of November 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Married, in Janesville, November 25th by Rev. F. B. Norton, Mr. William C. Stevens and
Miss Harriet M. Crall, of Center.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Daniel Johnson has donated to our office table a specimen of native copper ore, found
upon his Green County farm.  It is found in a locality where the water washes the porous soil, leaving a deep
gulley, and among the coarse gravel these specimens of copper are found, varying in size from small particles to
one and two pounds in weight.  The specimen upon our table looks as though it had been fused into an oblong,
unshapely mass, with deep cavities as though formed when in a liquid state by coming in contact with small stones
and pebbles.  These specimens are so frequent that Mr. Johnson feels almost inclined to prospect for the ore at
some leisure time.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Miss Sylvia Tupper, daughter of Mr. John Tupper, began teaching school in District No. 3,
of the Town of Magnolia on Monday last.  We shall look for her school reports regularly.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  The “Wisconsin Citizen,” the state Woman’s Suffrage organ, which has been published at
the Independent office in Brodhead, is now published at the Badger office in this city by Miss Marilla Andrews.

100 Years Ago (1908):  The dance given by the members of the fire companies last Friday night was an
unqualified success in every particular.  A crowd plenty large enough for enjoyment of the dancing was present;
the music was all that could be asked for and nothing marred the pleasure of the evening.  The supper served at
Wright’s restaurant was pronounced excellent and all did full justice to it.  Those who took in the dance would like
to do it over again.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The Baptist, Methodist, Congregational, Free Methodist and Lutheran pastors will hold a
Thanksgiving service in the Congregational Church next Thursday morning, November 28, commencing at ten
thirty.  Appropriate music will be provided.  On the evening of the same day, the Ladies Service Commission of the
Congregational Church will give a social at which a supper will be served.  On this occasion there will be community
singing and a splendid social time is expected.  There will be no charge of any kind at this meeting and all are
invited.

80 Years Ago (1928):  “Dick” Carson’s crew last week while getting gravel out of the small gravel pit in the Tourist
Park for the new abutments to strengthen the spill-way and provide supports for the foot bridges which are soon to
be placed there, unearthed the remains of two skeletons, presumably of Indians which had been buried there
many years ago.  The two skeletons were buried side by side and judging from the size and shape of the skulls
might have been a man and woman.  There was very little left of the skulls when found.  The joints of the hip bones
and some of the leg bones and parts of the skulls being about all that was left to show that they had once
belonged to a human body.  The skeletons were found within three feet of the top of the ground on the west side
of the little hill where the gravel pit is situated, at the north side of the park.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Mr. and Mrs. Warren Rodd will entertain at a family dinner here Thursday for Robert
Shreve, Milwaukee; Lee Richardson, student at Carroll College, Waukesha; Robert Richardson, University of
Wisconsin student, Madison; Mr. and Mrs. Donavan Every, Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm V. Allen, Mr. and Mrs. Robert
Higday, Miss Gertrude Rodd and John Higday, all of this city.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Mrs. M. M. Ware and Mrs. Mary Yarwood have opened a nursing home for the aged at 109
South Madison Street and are now equipped to receive patients.  Both Mrs. Ware and Mrs. Yarwood have had
considerable experience as practical nurses and are capable of caring for bedridden patients as well as those who
can partially care for themselves.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Dr. R. J. Gray and Don Onsrud of Evansville returned home Sunday after several days of
pheasant hunting near Madison, S. Dak.  Mr. Onsrud reports they got some birds, but due to plenty of good cover
and warm weather, it was hard going.  Much of the land has been in the soil bank for as long as five years and the
birds had good hiding places in the tall grasses.  At one time, they saw as many as 100 birds fly up at the other
end of the field they were hunting.

40 Years Ago (1968):   Marine Lance Corporal Donald D. Zhe, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gilmore Zhe of Rte. 1,
Brooklyn is serving with the First Light Anti-Aircraft Missile Battalion, a unit of the First Marine Aircraft Wing in
Vietnam.  The wing has been awarded the President’s Unit Citation for its combat achievements during the period
of May 1965 to Sept. 1967.  Air arm of the Third Marine Amphibious Force, the wing operates several hundred
aircraft which includes fighter, attack, reconnaissance, helicopter, and transport aircraft.  In addition to providing
aviation support for the First and Third Marine Divisions, the First Marine Aircraft Wing supports other American
and Allied forces in the five northernmost provinces of South Vietnam.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Evansville Blue Devil cagers lost their season’s opener to the Monroe Cheesemakers
by a score of 82-53.  This year’s Varsity Basketball team has as its members, Chuck Van, Jim Hyne, Randy Hatlen,
Greg Kuelz, David Hull, Greg Gard, Doug Chadwick, Mark Elmer, Mike Hilbelink, Ken Schmidt, Kim Hanson, and
Tim Uselman.  The Coach is Dennis Reese.

20 Years Ago (1988):  The Evansville area suffered big fire losses last week when the East Side Bar and Steak
House located on Hw. 14,and E. Main Street, and the barn on the farm of Duane and Jodi Hartzler in the Town of
Porter burned.  Both were declared total losses.  Seven occupants of the three apartments above the restaurant
were able to get out of the building before the fire reached the upstairs.  The fire has wiped out one of Evansville’s
oldest buildings.  The building was first a private home, but converted to a hotel.  The Evansville House was open
to travelers, offering comfort and convenience.  

10 years ago (1998):  Recently the Grace Independent Baptist Church celebrated Pastor Gay’s first year here in
Evansville with a Fellowship Dinner following the morning service.  Pastor and Mrs. Gay and their five children also
attended the National Meeting for Christian Home Schoolers in the state of Oregon.  They took Amtrak and
enjoyed seeing Mount St. Helens.

In Review
First Week of December 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Married in the Town of Center by Rev. R. Conley, Mr. Egbert C. Hopkins of Chicago and
Miss Mary J. Andrews of Center.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Married at the residence of the bride’s father, in Porter, Rock Co., Wis., Nov. 28, 1878, Mr.
John E. Colton and Miss Paulina J. Miller.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Aside from the report of the churches relief committee, as referred to in our
correspondents article, relative to Thanksgiving services.  We learn that this committee has paid out $28 during
the past year for the relief of the poor, which left their treasury 15 cents in debt, but a collection amounting to
$5.47 taken up at the meeting of Thursday paid this debt and leaves $5.32 now in said treasury.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  Died, on Sunday night, Nov. 27, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter F. Biglow.  
Short services were held at the home on Monday afternoon and the remains of the little one were laid at rest.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Complaint is made that the books of the library, many of them are being badly defaced
and mutilated by being scratched and marked up with pencils, having passages cut out and even whole leaves
torn out.  This is all wrong.  Because the library is free and no charge is made for use of books is no reason for
destroying them.  Probably most of this is done by boys or children.  When children have books out of the library, it
would be well for parents to exercise some oversight of them.  A little care and advice by parents may save the loss
of some of the most valuable books in the library, in which we are all interested and of which we are all proud.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Word was received in this city that Palmer G. Slauson, an employee of the City Water and
Light Department had been successful in the civil service examinations for the office of postmaster for this city and
that he has received the appointment.  It is stated that Mr. Slauson will take charge of the office the first of the year.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Walter and Arthur Templeton, sons of Peter Templeton, of Butts Corners are again winners
at the International Stock Show this week, Walter winning first on Southdowns, his brother Arthur winning third on
Shropshires.  Winning at the Chicago International is nothing new for these boys, as they were heavy winners
there two years ago, Walter winning five prizes.  These boys have also been consistent winners at both the Rock
and Dane county fairs as well as at the State Fair at Milwaukee.

70 Years Ago (1938):  Miss Alice Finnane, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. D. F. Finnane Sr., became the bride of James
Conway, son of Mr. and Mrs. Mathew Conway, Jamesville, at a nuptial high mass celebrated at 8 a.m. Thanksgiving
day in St. Paul’s Catholic Church here by the Rev. F. J. Mehigan.  The bride was graduated from the Evansville
High School in 1935 after which she was employed in Finanne’s Food shop here operated by her brother.  She
was later employed in Madison.  The groom, a graduate of the Janesville High School, is employed by the
Janesville Steam Laundry.  Mr. and Mrs. Conway are making their home in Janesville.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Candlelight illuminated the Brooklyn Methodist Church for the wedding of Miss Joanne
Kathryn Hansen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur J. Hansen, Brooklyn, and Donald Leonard Onsrud, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Halvor Onsrud, Stoughton, Thursday at 4:30 p.m.  Evergreen boughs, white mums and snapdragons
enhanced the setting.  The Rev. Oscar L. Stanke, Belleville, officiated assisted by the Rev. W. C. Snow, Brooklyn.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Two seniors, four juniors and one freshman earned straight A grades for the second six
week period.  They are seniors:  Don Every and Alvin Francis; juniors, Ann Baker and Shirley Cadman, Judy Cain,
Iris Peterson; and freshman: Kenneth Holz.

40 Years Ago (1968):   The Rev. Arvid Romstad, 65, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church, Evansville, and the
Cooksville Lutheran Church for 21 years prior to retiring from the ministry due to ill health four years ago, died
Thursday of last week in a Madison hospital.  He and his wife had made their home in Madison since his
retirement.  During his pastorate in Evansville the congregation constructed a new $158,000 church which was
dedicated in September 1958.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Evansville Historic District has been listed on The National Register of Historic Places.  
Those property owners within the district received letters from the United States Department of the Interior.  About
25% of the city of Evansville is in the district.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  The Town of Union board adopted their 1989 budget at Thursday’s meeting.  Total
operating expenditures in the 1989 budget are $115,471, including $12,300  to cover the Town of Union’s share of
the new Evansville Fire Department truck chassis.

10 years ago (1998):  The Varsity Basketball Squad at Evansville High School includes Seth Cratsenburg, Ryan
Kurtz, Jeremy Talbott, Josh Stadt, Derek Bergum Brad Crull, Willie Dressler, Mike Thornton, Ryan Subera, Jason
Butts, Joel Gunn, Scott Baertschi, Matt Heacox, Justin Jacobsma and Kerry Lindroth.  


In Review
Second Week of December 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  We find the following land sales reported in this county:  Evansville.  B. B. Lacy to James
Phincet, lot, $150; Wm. Powers to Abram Cramer, 1868, lot, $225; Union, Joseph Miller to Wm. Hilson, 1868, 7
acres, $414; John Lundy to Geo. Winter, 1868, 40 acres, $600.  Magnolia, Michael Scott to John Puffy. 1868, 40
acres, $1,000; E. D. and E. C. Clinton to Marshall Morse, 1868, $200 acres, $7,000; Peter Duffy to Aaron Smith,
1868, 20 acres, $200; Geo. Christman to John Clarkson, 1868, 40 acres, $1,200; Pat Noon, et al, to Geo.
Christman, 1868, 80 acres, $2,000.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Returned.  Mr. Wallace Bullard, son of our townsman, Jas. Bullard, Esq., who has been in
Dakota the past summer returned the past week, perhaps to remain during the winter.  Mr. Ballard is located at
Cameron, the county seat of McCook County, and is engaged in the mercantile business with Mr. Wm. Clark,
formerly of this town.  He was elected treasurer of that county at the last fall election and also holds the office of
Postmaster of that place.  The county was recently organized, and is settling up quite rapidly, or was before the
cold weather set in.  Mr. Bullard says the lands in his vicinity are nearly all taken up, and immigration is expected to
be lively next season.  Already a railroad has been looked out through that section, running westward to the Black
Hills, making Cameron an objective point.  Mr. Bullard is familiar with many parts of Dakota, and persons
contemplating emigration in the spring will do well to consult Mr. Bullard as to choice locations and eligible farming
lands.  

120 Years Ago (1888):  Mr. E. Sargent, of the firm of F. A. Baker & Co., has been suffering severely from
rheumatism for several days, to that extent that he has been unable to come down town until yesterday, when we
saw him a riding home with his partner, Mr. Baker.  The disease has become chronic with him and he has suffered
more or less from it for several years, but it is hoped by his many friends that he will soon recover.

110 Years Ago (1898):  Mr. Liew Van Wart has purchased the City Drug Store owned by A. A. Snashall.  He takes
possession at once.  Mr. Van Wart is a young man of excellent qualities and we bespeak for him success in
whatever he undertakes.  [Note:  the drug store of Mr. Van Wart was located at 5 West Main Street.  In 1912, Van
Wart moved his store to 7 West Main Street.]

100 Years Ago (1908):  George Emery shipped a carload of lambs to Chicago on Wednesday of last week, which
topped the market, bringing an even $7 per hundred for the entire car load, not a lamb being culled out.  That’s
pretty good.  Mr. Emery’s lambs brought the highest price last year, also.  Our people sure know how to raise and
feed stock.

90 Years Ago (1918):   The sale of F. B. Green and Son, at their farm in Magnolia, last Friday, was well attended
and for the time of the year, the stuff sold at fairly good prices, though some of the purebred animals hardly
brought their value.  The top of the animals offered for sale was Buella Ragapple Chief, a yearling bull with a fine
line of breeding and milk records behind him.  He brought $400 and was purchased by August Ringhand.  To show
that this bull was a bargain, Mr. Green offered Mr. Ringhand $100 to leave him in the barn, an offer that was
refused with thanks.  Of the grade cows sold, the top price was $190 paid for a fine looking cow with lots of
promise, and the average price paid for the grade cows was in the neighborhood of $150.  This firm deserves a lot
of credit in pushing the Holstein breeding and selling in this county and if they receive the support of the farmers
and other Holstein breeders they will in a few years make this county the banner Holstein county of the state.  
There is nothing in the farming line that produces money and prosperity like the dairy business, especially when it
is conducted with a backing of Holstein cattle.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Walter Golmar, who in company with his father, has been deer hunting at Pickerel Lake was
the first one to report in with his deer, Wednesday morning of the several who went from here to take advantage of
the open season on these animals..  Mr. Golmar states that there is not near as much snow in the northern part of
the state as there is around Madison.

70 Years Ago (1938):  The Hansen Harness and Shoe shop is this week opening in its new location in the Evans
building at 26 East Main Street which has been completely remodeled and redecorated in an alteration program
that has taken more than six weeks to complete.  The work on the building was done by Carl W. Thrun and Elmer
J. Northam, local contractors, who reconditioned the exterior with fireproof asbestos shingles and sheet metal,
lowered the floor to street level installed an attractive new plate glass show window with indirect lighting and
completely remodeled the interior.  The contractors are now remodeling the second floor into an attractive
apartment.  The interior on the first floor has been arranged to accommodate the shoe shop in the front and the
repair room at the rear.  Mr. Hansen came to Evansville 11 years ago and first established his harness and shoe
shop at 11 South Madison Street.

60 Years Ago (1948):  A grand opening of the East Side Inn, recently leased by A. C., Bob and Milo Schucht from
Ralph Brzezinski, is being planned and the exact date will be announced in next week’s issue of the Review.  The
Schuchts have taken possession of the tavern and dining room and are now open for business.

50 Years Ago (1958):   Karren Algrim has been selected to be a member of the “McCall’s Teen Age Fashion
board.”  Karren represents the Home Economics Department of the Evansville High School.  This honor which was
won by Karren was given to only 66 girls in the United States last year.

40 Years Ago (1968):   Mr. and Mrs. Austin Hunt were the honored guests at a surprise party last Sunday
complimentary to their golden wedding anniversary.  The event was held in the Attica Community Center and was
attended by relatives, friends and neighbors.  Refreshments were served.  Mr. Hunt and the former Elsie Keehn
were married Dec. 5, 1918 and they have always farmed in this area.  They have four children, Franklin, Calif;
Howard, Rte. 1, and Orson, Rte. 2, Evansville and Mrs. Kenneth Spanton of Evansville, also 11 grandchildren and
one great granddaughter, Kelly Bratzke.

30 Years Ago (1978):  St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Evansville was the scene of the November 25, 1978 wedding
of Debra Karen Blum and David Arthur Olsen.  Father Thomas C. Lourim officiated at the 2:30 p.m. ceremony for
the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jay Blum, Evansville and the son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Olsen, Rte. 1, Brooklyn.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  According to City Clerk Bob Poffenberger no one has taken out nomination papers for the
three aldermanic positions open in the spring election.  Positions to be filed are for Alderman Jim Martin, Kristine
Raymond and Richard Krake.  Krake was appointed this year to fill the vacancy of Chris Eager.  Nomination papers
are due by Tuesday, Jan. 3.  

10 years ago (1998):  Load after load of eager passengers kept Russ Bergeland of Smith Ranch Rides busy last
Friday evening from 7 p.m. until 10 p.m.  The Chamber sponsored event took lace along with lots of other
scheduled events for Evansville’s Old Fashioned Christmas.  Brenda Berg with her Middle School Choral students
sang at the lighting of the Love Light Tree at City Hall.  A full crowd gathered to listen to the music and watch the
Love light Tree illuminate the night.

In Review
Third Week of December 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Mr. B. S. Hoxie, one of the intelligent and reliable Republicans of Rock County will be a
candidate for Sergeant-at-Arms of the Senate at the opening of the next session.  Mr. H. is a gentleman every way
qualified for that, or any other position he may be called upon to fill and if the Senate chooses to make him their
executive officer, they will do a good thing for their personal comfort and the good order of the session.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. P. F. Spencer almost begins to think fate is against him.  In this issue mention is made
of losing a fine colt by breaking a leg.  Monday morning he called into our office and stated that he had just lost a
fine cow, probably by milk fever.

120 Years Ago (1888):  The chimney sweep’s musical voice or horn rang out upon the frosty air quite early
Monday morning, from the high roof of the Grange store.  He secured a lively patronage throughout the day, we
failed to learn from when he came or went.

110 Years Ago (1898):  There is some delay in the completion of the telephone exchange in this city, on account
of some property holders objecting to the location of poles, which it is hoped will all be amicably settled within days.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Monday, Dec. 14, 1846, just sixty-two years ago, J. M. Ballard and wife, of this city, were
married in New York State.  Monday evening they and a few of their friends were invited to the home of their son,
E. J. Ballard, where the evening was pleasantly spent in visiting and talking over old times.  Refreshments were
served and a very enjoyable time was had.  Those present and all the rest of us hope Mr. and Mrs. Ballard may
have many happy returns of the day.

90 Years Ago (1918):   Miller and Winn have just received a carload of Ford cars and are able once again to
announce that they are ready to make deliveries of these popular cars.  They announce that the Fordson tractor is
now equipped with a pully for running any kind of farm machinery.

80 Years Ago (1928):  Mr. Otto Lewer, just north of the Fredus Johnson farm in the town of Union, answered the S.
O.S. call of the Lions Club in the Review last week for a large Christmas tree to be used at the Bank corners as a
Community Tree.  This is the most beautiful and symmetrical tree of the several this club has erected during the
past three years.  Tuesday the Lions Committee went to the Lewer farm and brought in the tree and by night the
tree was up so that Scout Master Devine and his troop could wire it for the lights and put on the decorations.  

70 Years Ago (1938):  Christmas cheer will be brought to Evansville’s needy families on Saturday of next week
when Miss Ruth Chase, city nurse, starts her annual distribution of yuletide baskets which will include groceries,
canned fruits and vegetables collected in relief barrels now being placed in stores throughout the city and other
donations contributed by public spirited organizations and individuals.  The pupils of the grade school are also at
work repairing discarded toys for the baskets.  The stores in which the relief barrels are placed are Finnane
Foods, Grange Store, Smith’s Quality Market, Bliven’s Royal Blue Food Store, Kroger’s Grocery, Carr’s Grocery,
Holmes Grocery, Day’s Food Shop and Miller’s Grocery and Market.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Harold Robinson has been chosen master of the Evansville Boy Scouts which organization
is sponsored here by the Lions club.  Since the resignation of George Greenway, who was master for several
years, the troop has been without a leader.  Mr. Robinson is well qualified for the position having been an ardent
student in scouting under the leadership of A. H. Devine, who served as scoutmaster here for many years.  Harold
and Edwin Devine were the first two Eagle Scouts in Evansville.  

50 Years Ago (1958):  Floyd Francis was elected president of the Evansville local of the Pure Milk Assn. at a
meeting last week.  Ralph Long was named vice-president and William Fenrick, secretary-treasurer.  Delegates
elected were Walter Pfeuti and Fred Miller, with Lawrence Janes and Ed Schneeberger as alternates.

40 Years Ago (1968):   An accident occurred at 8 p.m. Sunday on the intersection of Church and South First
Streets in which two Janesville men were ticketed for a stop sign violation.  Kenneth Kuelz and daughter were in the
car struck by the Janesville car.  Mr. Kuelz and daughter were not injured but it is reported that one of the other car
occupants sustained an eye injury.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The Sheraton Inn at Madison was the scene of a day-long Beauty Seminar attended by
Candy Phelps, Shannon Baumberger, Wenonah Jorgensen, Evansville Beauty Shoppe and Diane Propst,
Wenonah’s Beauty Shoppe, Oregon.  

20 Years Ago (1988):  Evansville city assessor Bob Leonard was present at the council meeting on Tuesday night
of last week and informed the members that revaluation will take place in 1989.  “This will reduce inequities and
bring the files up to date,” Leonard said. He also noted that he has never seen so many historical properties with
which to deal.  The first stage of the project will be devoted to setting up documents and the second half will be
spent on the physical work.  Leonard sees educating the public as he plans to go door-to-door.  He predicts a 90
percent entry to homes and plans to leave hangers on doors of those not at home to make arrangements.  The
last revaluation was done 10 years ago.

10 years ago (1998):  The one-year contract for Jennifer Petruzzello as the new City Administrator, was approved
by the Evansville Common Council.  Ms. Petruzzello comes from Janesville where she has been a management
assistant under the City Manager there, since August 1997.  In Janesville, she has been working with the senior
citizens committee, which is presently studying facility needs and overseeing the city’s cable franchise agreement.

In Review
Fourth Week of December 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Notice is hereby given that the First Welsh Old School Presbyterian Church of Union, Rock
County, Wis., a corporation organized and existing in said county of Rock, will on the 4th day of January, A. D.
1869 apply to the circuit court of the county of Rock, in the State of Wisconsin, to make an order for the sale of all
the real estate belonging to said corporation and to direct the application of the moneys arising therefrom, to such
uses as the said corporation (with the approbation of said court), shall conceive to be for the interest of such
corporation.  Dated Union; Dec. 18, 1868.  Joseph Williams, Evan A. Thomas, Treasurer of said Corporation.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Married.  LEMEL –TAGGART – At Evansville, Dec. 18th, by Rev. E. Robinson, John Lemel
and Lizzie C. Taggart, both of Evansville.

120 Years Ago (1888):  Married At the residence of the bride’s father, in the town of Union, Dec. 18, 1888, by Rev.
L. N. Wheeler, Chas. Henry Weary, of Evansville and Elva J. Story of Union.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  The sad news reached this city by telegraph Monday morning, that Mrs. Margaret West,
aged 84 years, died that morning at 3:30 o’clock at the home of her son James R. West in Elgin, Ill.  The remains
are expected here Wednesday noon and funeral services will be held in the M. E. Church on the same day at 2 o’
clock p.m.  Rev. H. Sewell will officiate, assisted by Rev. Wm. Rollins.  Mrs. Margaret West was one of the very first
settlers in this place and has been a long sufferer from cancer, resulting in her death, which she has borne with
great courage and Christian patience.

100 Years Ago (1908):  Acting under information received from Robert Acheson of Magnolia, Grant Fisher went to
Magnolia Friday to quarantine a herd of cattle belonging to a nearby farmer.  Acheson, who is a butcher, bought
the animal from the farmer and at the time she seemed perfectly sound and healthy.  When she was slaughtered,
however, the signs of tuberculosis were very apparent, and Mr. Fisher was at once informed of the occurrence.  
The farmer’s herd was quarantined and will be tested some time next week.

90 Years Ago (1918):   There was a quiet wedding last Monday evening at the home of Mrs. C. D. Barnard,
wherein Mr. Bert F. Baker was united in marriage to Miss Grace Crosby, by the Rev. O. W. Smith.  After the
ceremony the bride and groom, and the immediate members of the family partook of a nice four course dinner,
after which Mr. Baker and his bride left by auto for Janesville to catch a train for Chicago.  When they return home
they will go housekeeping in the Economy flats, which the groom has already nicely furnished.  The bride is a
daughter of Mrs. Martha Crosby.  The groom, Mr. B. F. Baker, is a member of the well-known firm of F. A. Baker &
Co., of this city.  

80 Years Ago (1928):  The Influenza epidemic, which has been sweeping the state and the entire country, has
slowed down all activities everywhere and its effect has been badly felt, especially in business circles.  In this
locality the disease has not been of a serious nature as no deaths have resulted from the dozens of cases which
have occurred.  People of this city have taken it upon themselves to voluntarily suspend public meetings where the
gathering of great numbers of people might assist in spreading the disease.  The Men’s Club Supper and the
Grade School Operetta were called off and the dates postponed.  There is scarcely a home in the city or
surrounding community where someone is not sick with it and it is hardly expected that people with sickness in the
house are going to be as enthusiastic about Christmas and the spending of money as they would have been
otherwise.  Business from coast to coast has been hurt.  The Evansville Schools closed last week a week ahead of
their usual holiday closing time and the churches of the city were closed last Sunday for the same reason.

70 Years Ago (1938):  With a total of 8,678 cancellations of letters and cards, the Evansville post office
experienced its largest day of business yesterday ever recorded on this class of mail, according to an
announcement made this morning by Postmaster Roy Reckord.  Despite the increased volume of mail received
and dispatched, the post office force here has been strengthened by the addition of only one employee.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Rolland Gundlach, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Gundlach, Evansville, who served in the navy
for three years, received his discharge Dec. 7 at Treasure Island and arrived home Dec. 10.  Gundlach entered
service Nov. 9, 1945 and was trained at Great Lakes.  He started for overseas July 17, 1946, stopping at Pearl
Harbor for a few days, and then to the South Pacific where he did duty on islands of the Philippines and on islands
of the Mariannas group.  His travels among the islands of the South Pacific were on LST craft.  He celebrated his
21st birthday last Sunday.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Miss Carlyn Helen Krueger became the bride of Lee Cooper Saturday, Dec. 20.  The
ceremony took place in St. John’s Lutheran Church, Evansville, with the Rev. A. M. Romstad officiating.  Parents of
the couple are Dr. and Mrs. E. W. Krueger and Mr. and Mrs. John Heritage.  After a short wedding trip the couple
will be at home in St. Paul, Minn.

40 Years Ago (1968):   The Evansville Masonic lodge members held a pre-installation dinner in the Masonic
Temple on Tuesday night of last week.  Following the dinner the 1969 officers were seated as follows:  Everett
Propst, worshipful master; Rolland Propst, senior warden; James Reynolds, junior warden; Forrest T. Durner,
treasurer; H. L. Tait, secretary; Dr. Charles Nelson, senior deacon; Roger Thompson, junior deacon; Dan Holzem,
senior steward; Paul Gibbs, junior steward; Ray Andrew, chaplain and Wayne Ballard, tiler and trustee for three
years.

30 Years Ago (1978):  The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater held its 15th annual mid-year commencement at 10
a.m. Saturday, December 16, in Williams Center.  Degree candidates include Kim B. Heimerl, son of Dr. and Mrs.
Robert Heimerl, Evansville, graduated with a B.S.E. in elementary education.  Kim taught in Barassie Primary
School in Troon, Scotland for eight weeks before graduating.

20 Years Ago (1988):  Judy Moe, Ruby Bernstein, Rita Vielhuber, Elaine Jenson of Evansville were among the 14
Rock County Extension Homemakers who attended day-long workshops on leadership development planning
educational programs recently.  The meeting was held at Portage and “Self-concept of Women” was the topic of
the keynote speech.

10 years ago (1998):  This year’s corn harvest has been the best ever.  At this year’s stockholder’s meeting of the
Union Co-op, the 1985 figures of 1,000,000 bushels of soybeans and 700,000 bushels of corn, were compared to
the record ’98 figures of one million bushels of soybeans and 2.8 million bushels of corn.  These figures are at
least 20% more than last year, Doug Johnson, grain department manager at Union Co-op said.

In Review
Fifth Week of December 1868-1998

140 Years Ago (1868):  Married in Janesville, Dec. 19, by Rev. G. W. Lawrence, Mr. J. Murray and Miss Sarah
Kirkpatrick, both of Brooklyn, Green County, Wis.

130 Years Ago (1878):  Mr. Harvey Prentice returned from a Dakota tour last week.  He represents Evansville
people as being contented and feel well pleased with their new homes.

120 Years Ago (1888):  The Christmas eve entertainment at the M. E. church was quite a brilliant affair, the church
was crowded.  The large tree bright with the glare of electric light and loaded with presents for young and old made
a fine appearance.  The programme was carried out under the management of Mr. W. S. Smith, all seemed
pleased.  In the lecture room the tables were set for 200, here the members of the school were invited to a supper
of fruit, which was enjoyed in a very large degree by all present, by the young in the eating and by the old in the
admiration of the joys and powers of youth.  

110 Years Ago (1898):  The dedication of the new band hall on W. M. Tolles’ farm Thursday evening was a grand
success, there was a good representation of Janesville and Evansville people present, who enjoyed the occasion
very much.

100 Years Ago (1908):  At an early hour Sunday morning, Dec. 27, Mr. Levi Leonard died at his home in this city,
after an illness lasting for many months.  Had Mr. Leonard survived until Wednesday, Dec. 30, he would have
attained to the ripe old age of 93 years.  This is a long life, and in the case of the deceased, it has been a good
and useful one—one to which his friends and relatives may look back upon with pride and thankfulness.  

90 Years Ago (1918):   F. B. Green this week purchased Mrs. J. W. Calkins property on the corner of Garfield
Avenue and First Street and will occupy it as a home as soon as he moves in from the farm that he recently sold in
the town of Magnolia.  [Note:  the home is at 51 North First Street.]

80 Years Ago (1928):  The idea of having two cars, one for the family, for Sunday or Dress Parade, always clean
and good looking, ready for a long trip on a moment’s notice and another cheaper car which is not too good to
stand out in the sun or buck the snow drifts for every-day use to town and back or to the office and back is getting
to be a custom in many localities.  In these days when good used cars can be bought at such reasonable prices, it
is not good judgment to use the expensive car for a “Knockabout.”  Buy a second car and Buy it in Evansville:  The
Buick Sales Services; The Service Garage; L. L. Thompson; Heffel & Jorgensen; H. P. Durner; The Madison St.
Garage.

70 Years Ago (1938):  A delegation of approximately 25 salesmen and branch managers of the Baker
Manufacturing Company from Brandon, Manitoba Canada; Minneapolis, Minn; Fort Dodge, Cedar Rapids and
Fredericksburg, Ia.; and Janesville and Evansville have assembled here this week to attend a three-day
conference.  In preparation for the event, the Baker company equipped a new show room with a complete display
of all products manufactured here and the sessions and demonstrations are all being held in the new exhibit room.  
The conference opened with an address of welcome by R. B. Townsend, this city, manager of dealer sales and
continued with an address by C. S. Baker, president of the firm, who outlined the general policies of the company
for 1939.  The session is slated to close with a banquet at Frank’s Café.

60 Years Ago (1948):  Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Everill have purchased the C. H. Patterson building on East Main
Street and will install a modern up-to-date roller skating rink at an early date, utilizing the entire building.  A grocery
sale at Pat’s Market which now occupies the building, will open next Monday and extend one week closing the 8th.  
Possession will be given to Mr. and Mrs. Everill Jan. 15, and the rink will be opened as soon as the installations are
made.

50 Years Ago (1958):  Opening of bids for a new fire truck for fuel oil for city buildings and for fuel for city vehicles
took precedence at the City Council meeting Tuesday night.  The bid of Thompson Motors, Evansville Ford dealer,
was accepted for the new fire truck for city and country use.  Pumping equipment for the new truck will be built on
the chassis by the Peter Pirsch Company, Kenosha, who have also equipped other fire department trucks here in
past years.  Fuel oil for heating city buildings will be supplied by Sinclair Refining Company, the low bidder.  

40 Years Ago (1968):   Mrs. Jennie Bone, 77, who has been a resident of Evansville the past 48 years, died
Saturday afternoon in the Stoughton Hospital where she had been the past month since becoming ill in her home
here.  She was the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Norman Hart and was born in Humbird, Oct. 21, 1891.  She
married William Bone in 1915.  They founded the Leota School for Girls here and operated it as a private school
for many years.

30 Years Ago (1978):  A smoke alarm Christmas gift saved the lives of the Gerald Lange family when a fire swept
through their two-story house on County T west of Evansville Wednesday night.  The fire, the cause of which is still
undetermined, started on the back porch of the house and swept through the house, destroying the building.  The
alarm, which was sitting on the dining room table went off immediately after the blaze started, enabling the Lange
family to escape.  Thanks to the alarm the family also was able to save at least half of their household goods.  The
Lange’s and their children will be staying with Gerald’s father, Archie, temporarily.  The house was covered by
insurance and its contents were partially covered.

20 Years Ago (1988):  This past week, the East Side Steak House, which succumbed to a recent fire, disappeared
from E. Main Street as Helgesen Excavating bulldozed down the charred walls of the historic hotel.  Richard
Meissner who was a tenant in the building at the time of the fire, was at the scene, and unbelievably found his lost
wallet in the rubble.  It was a nice Christmas present for him as he lost everything in the fire.  Meissner got out of
the building with just his trousers on, no shoes, no shirt and his wallet was left on the nightstand.  It was hard to
believe that the wallet still had his money in it and was not burned.  But he did not find his keys.

10 years ago (1998):  On Monday of next week, January 4. Eric Runaas of Evansville will be sworn in as the Rock
County Sheriff in a ceremony in Branch I Courthouse, in Janesville.  “I’m ready for it,” he states.  Runaas says he
has spent some time already looking at things, but will get his feet on the ground before he considers any
changes.  “Nothing major” at this time he notes.