IN REVIEW
COMPILED BY RUTH ANN MONTGOMERY
In Review
First Week of January 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Winston & Bennett are the oldest firm now doing business. The senior partner
established himself in business something over twelve years ago, with his father, John Winston and his brother
Reuben, under the style of J. Winston & Sons. In the Spring of 1861, Mr. I. M. Bennett purchased the interest
of the elder Winston, and also of Reuben, and established the firm as it now exists. The amount of business
done the past year by this firm, approaches fifty thousand dollars, and their regular customers extend over a
larger territory, perhaps, than any other firm in the country. Early last Spring an extensive addition was made
to their store, and the whole well filled by purchases from Boston and New York, to which additions have been
made from time to time as their trade demands, so that customers have a full stock to select from at all times.
They are men of thorough business culture and keep well informed as to the price and quality of all kinds of
merchandise, correct in their dealings, and always obliging to their customers, ready to accommodate without
charging fabulous prices to cover imaginary losses. They have connected, other branches such as banking,
buying and selling of exchanges, on Chicago and Eastern cities, tailoring, millinery, business &c. The Merchant’
s Express Company find a prompt and reliable agency in these gentlemen. It would seem almost invidious to
close our article without adding a word to the gentlemanly clerks of this establishment, Messrs. Blakesley &
Griffin, who are always found at their posts of duty, ready to wait upon customers, with kind attention and
affability. [Note: Nelson Winston and Isaac Bennett’s store was located at 1 West Main Street.]
130 Years Ago (1877): Married. Tolles-Strong—At Evansville, Dec. 31st., by Rev. E. Robinson, Mr. Frank D.
Tolles and Miss Kate Isabel Strong, both of Union.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. Elmer Bullard took a car load of stock to Chicago, Tuesday night. He says he has
shipped 72 car loads of stock the past year, and paid out to farmers $50,000.
110 Years Ago (1897): C. Babcock of Evansville, Albert Moore, of S. Magnolia, A. Spencer and family and G.
Babcock and family spent Xmas at C. W. Moore’s.
100 Years Ago (1907): Owing to the poor health of the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Janes, it has been
decided to spend the winter in a more congenial climate. Mr. Janes will stay here with part of the family while
Mrs. Janes will try some southern clime. They are packing up their household goods so as to let the new
tenant, Mr. Robinson, into their house.
90 Years Ago (1917): After considering several bids, the City Council on Tuesday evening decided to
purchase a new Studebaker combination chemical and hose motor truck for the fire department from the
Evansville City Garage. The price is to be $1,925, which is $125 lower than the second lowest bid, and the
truck is believed to be just as good as the higher-priced ones. The truck, which is strictly up to date, carries
two extension ladders, roof ladder, folding hooks, pike poles, 1,000 feet of fire hose, a forty-gallon chemical
tank, two hand chemical tanks, axes, crow bars, door-openers and hose shut-off. The truck will weigh about
5,500 pounds. The manufacturer promises delivery within sixty days after the order is placed, which will be the
first of next week.
80 Years Ago (1927): The decrease in railroad passenger traffic, especially on the short hauls, is due to the
great amount of automobile and motor coach travel, local passenger and freight agent, A. T. Smith said in an
interview. “If people continue to travel by bus and in their private cars, there is no question but what they are
going to force the railroad companies to discontinue their service, in fact, many trains have already been taken
off from branch lines,” he said. “When a great transportation company discontinues its service in a community,
the business of that locality is absolutely crippled.” The agent cited this city as a typical example and explained
what would happen if railroad traffic here was abandoned. Evansville never had better train service than it now
has. At the present time it is benefited by five south bound and four northbound passenger trains daily
together with four regular south bound and five northbound freights. All of these trains make connections with
all the principle points, north, south, east and west. “What Evansville would do in such a case as the
abandonment of the local railroad is only too evident,” he declared.
70 Years Ago (1937): A crowd of nearly 200 enthusiastic sportsmen from Evansville and neighboring cities
flocked to the Grange Hall to attend the annual raccoon and venison supper which culminated an eventful
season of field trials, raccoon hunting, and other sporting activities. All guests were served promptly without
confusion by the ladies of the Waucoma Grange who prepared a most inviting menu to accompany the raccoon
and venison roasted by Frank Meredith of Frank’s Café where the supper was served last year. The Evansville
chapter of the Izaak Walton League was the first group in the state to introduce annual sportsmen’s banquets
and programs and since its first attempt, when only a few were served at a more or less private affair, the
suppers have constantly grown in popularity until they are now commended throughout the state and are much
anticipated from year to year. Among the Evansville sportsmen who have taken decided interest in planning
and sponsoring the banquets from year to year are Dr. J. W. Ames, R. J. Antes, and P. D. Pearsall, who have
been untiring in their efforts to make the events a success from both the attendance and financial standpoints.
60 Years Ago (1947): At the extreme north boundary of Evansville, on Highways 13, 14 and 59, Valhalla, an
original and distinctive eating place will be open to the public after January first. Mr. and Mrs. Walter Carlsson
will conduct Valhalla and serve the meals, which will be upon reservation only. Mr. Carlsson comes from the
Drake Hotel in Chicago, where he has had considerable experience in the preparation of foods. Mrs. Carlsson,
formerly Miss Sylvia Hatlen, has for some eight years been connected with the serving of foods in Carson Pire
and Scott dining room in Chicago.
50 Years Ago (1957): Officer John Whitmore, who has been with the Evansville Police Department eight
months, recently began a 10-week police training course at the Janesville court house. There will be sessions
devoted to the laws of arrest, crime reporting, criminal investigation, and the laws of Wisconsin. The program is
sponsored by the Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Assn. and the Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Assn. in
cooperation with the Milwaukee office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
60 Years Ago (1967): WCLO Schooltime listeners would never guess that it was the first day after vacation for
members of the Evansville Junior High School French class taught by Mrs. Duane McIlwraith. The students
responded to a rapid barrage of questions, never missing a beat, as their peppy French teacher questioned
them in French and were answered in that same language. The class rounded out the program with a couple
of French songs. The students who introduced themselves in French were Christopher Eager, Paul Pratt,
Lisette McCabe, Josette Shea, Charles Heimerl, Anne Rasmussen, Suzanne Hatlevig, Anne Graham, Nannette
Thompson, Janine Albright, Susette Dennison, Colette Des Rochers, Catherine Ballmer, Lisette Gallman, Paul
Brunsell and Simone Gray. The students are rapidly becoming experts, although they are only in the second
year of study of the language. They are 8th graders.
30 Years Ago (1977): Judith Guth graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point on December 19.
Six from the Evansville area graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater at the mid-year
commencement held December 18. The graduates from the Evansville area included John W. Bryant, Jr. son
of Mr. and Mrs. J. Bryant Sr.; Terry D. Bund, son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Bund; James Gallman, son of Mr.
and Mrs. Robert Gallman; Wilbur K. Hoesly, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Hoesly; Yvonne J. Meichtry, daughter
of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Meichtry and Delbert L. Schneeberger, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Schneeberger. .
20 Years Ago (1987): David Wartenweiler of Monroe, Evansville’s Building Inspector has noted there is a lot of
construction taking place now in Evansville. “Construction amounts to $1,500,000 in property value,” he says,
indicating this includes the Baker Block remodeling, addition to Piggly Wiggly and several new houses. The
new inspector is certified in plumbing, heating, electrical, building and energy areas. Several new homes have
sprung up on Fifth Street, in the Abey Addition. Originally, the homes were to be built under the Self-Help
Concept, but due to the program no longer being in existence, the funding was assumed by the Farmers Home
Administration. The same homeowners, who had planned to do the labor portions of the houses, will be moving
in to the homes soon, bringing new faces to Evansville, and a boost in the tax rolls.
10 years ago (1997): After many years in the making, the Fifth Street project has been finished and the
residents are able to regain normal living. Fifth Street was widened to 36 feet, curbs and gutters installed,
sidewalk on the east side of the street, storm sewers and an asphalt surface. The project extends from Fourth
Street on the north to Porter Road on the south.
In Review
Second Week of January 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Married. At the residence of the of the bride’s father in Evansville, on Wednesday,
Dec. 26, 1866 by Rev. J. I. Foote, E. W. Beebe, M. D. of Stoughton and Frank A., only daughter of H. G.
Spencer.
130 Years Ago (1877): The installation of the officers of Union Lodge No. 32, A. F. & A. Masons came off at
their hall Tuesday evening of last week. Dr. J. M. Evans, installing officer. The ceremonies were witnessed by
numerously invited ladies and gentlemen, friends of the order. At the close of the services the officers of
Evansville Chapter, No. 35, Royal Arch Masons were installed by Dr. C. M. Smith. Both services were
conducted with solemnity due the occasion. After the close of the ceremonies members of the order repaired
to the Spencer House, where mine host, Col. Beebe had prepared, in an excellent manner, a fine oyster
supper, which was partaken of with a hearty relish for the good things amply provided at that hostelry.
120 Years Ago (1887): Dr. Smith complained of a sleepy weariness lately. Tuesday night he took a girl baby
over to Mr. and Mrs. T. E. Lucas, and a boy baby to Mr. and Mrs. Charles Stevens, some eight miles off in the
eastern part of Porter. The track was poorly trod and several tip-overs rewarded him for the midnight journey.
110 Years Ago (1897): The Evansville Dramatic Club will present the famous 5-act temperance drama entitled
“Ten Nights in a Bar Room,” admission 10 and 15 cents; reserved seats at E. Ballard’s. The club have spared
no time or means in making this entertainment one well worthy your most liberal patronage. Cast includes, A.
C. Humeston, E. H. Fiedler, C. S. Baker, Jay Fessenden, F. E. West. F. F. Humeston, W. G. Taggart, Cora
Carpenter, Grace Carpenter, Jessie Paylor.
100 Years Ago (1907): The first application for a marriage license in Rock County for this year, was filed by
George J. Johnson and Myrtle Courtright, both of the town of Union, on Friday last.
90 Years Ago (1917): Leon Patterson, Lyle Porter, Lloyd Wilder, Everett Van Patten, Wesley Langemak,
Loyal Baker, Beth Baker, Barbara Pearsall and Ethel Van Wart were among those who have returned to the
University of Wisconsin.
80 Years Ago (1927): In several Western Kansas towns there is a windmill on every lot and every alley is
marked by its row of windmill towers, as on account of the depth of the wells, hand pumping is almost
impossible. A careful count of twenty-three mills on one street showed that about fifty percent of the mills were
“Monitors” or Baker Manufacturing Co., as against four other competitors. So it is to be seen that Evansville is
more than holding her own in the windmill business, out in the short-grass country.
70 Years Ago (1937): Although no official announcement has been received here from the postal department
in Washington, Roy Reckord, city treasurer and operator of a tire and battery service station at 7 South
Madison street, has been recommended by Senator F. Ryan Duffy for appointment as postmaster at Evansville
to succeed A. C. Holmes. After writing a civil service examination late in 1935, Mr. Reckord, P. A. Finstad, and
Palmer Slauson were selected as the three eligibles for the Evansville post office after which Reckord received
the recommendation of Senator Duffy. Mr. Holmes, who now holds the position, was appointed acting
postmaster here August 1, 1927 to succeed F. T. Durner and on Jan. 8, 1928, received a four-year
appointment from the late President Coolidge. He was reappointed for four years by Ex-president Hoover on
February 10, 1932.
60 Years Ago (1947): A testimonial dinner to be held at 6 p.m. Sunday in St. Paul’s Catholic church under the
sponsorship of the Holy Name Society of the church will be a homecoming turkey banquet free to the veterans
of the parish together with all other GI’s of Evansville regardless of religious affiliations. The banquet is a
heartfelt testimonial of gratitude and appreciation to the men of Evansville who fought so valiantly for the
everlasting glory of their country. The dinner is being financed by the members of the Holy Name Society and
the cooking, serving and all arrangements are being carried out by the men of the parish. St. Paul’s church
numbers about 120 families. Those in charge of ticket distribution are George Mattakat, John Gundlach,
Charles Maloy and Edward Erpenbach. The parish hall has been appropriately decorated in red, white and
blue.
50 Years Ago (1957): An engineering firm to design the new $75,000 swimming pool here was approved by
the City Council Wednesday night. Aldermen authorized Mayor R. B. Townsend and the City Clerk to enter into
a contract with Ruekert and Mielke, Inc., Waukesha, to design the pool. The contract will not be signed until
after Jan. 15, when money is received for a city bond sale. The city will then advertise for construction bids.
The site will be in Leota Park but has not been definitely picked.
60 Years Ago (1967): Many Evansville people are unaware that an Evansville citizen is a song writer. In an
interview recently with Victor D. Wall, a member of the Review staff learned that he had written “The Laughing
Song” way back in 1918 and it became then and still is popular with soloists, dance bands and on radio
programs. The song played by five different bands was recorded on Leaf, Decca, Polka Land and Cuca
records. It was played ever morning for six months on the Red Blanchard show over WLS. Its popularity
started when it was sung as a novelty song by many different voices. Mr. Wall was his own agent for some time
but recently he has engaged an agent. Contracts are currently being discussed and signed to take “The
Laughing Song” to West Germany.
30 Years Ago (1977): Eight building permits were issued by the Evansville City Assessor’s office in 1976 for
new single family homes. The number is only the second highest since 1970, when five residential permits
were issued. Permits were issued to the following persons last year, with street address included: Randy
Peters, Garfield Ave.; Carolyn U’Ren, 24 Higgins Drive; Evansville Community School District, 26 Higgins Dr;
Lyle Wickersham, 505 Fowler Circle; Probst Bros. builders, 502 Fowler Circle; and Walter Waeffler, 27 Higgins
Dr. Union township issued 13 single family residential permits, according to assessor Ed Hallmark, Seven of
those were for homes in the Francis addition just southwest of the Evansville city limits.
20 Years Ago (1987): Tom Edwardson, genial manager of the Evansville IGA, has been elected president of
the Evansville Chamber of Commerce. He succeeds Marsha Dobbs, who has served in that position for three
terms. Other officers names are Jim Martin, vice president; Rowland Straka, re-elected treasurer and Ruth Ann
Montgomery, secretary.
10 years ago (1997): Baker Manufacturing is in the process of expanding its office space. A new structure is
being tied in just south of the present office building to accommodate accounting and executive offices. The
move practically doubles Baker’s office facilities and will provide more space for sales which has been
cramped. The project is expected to be completed by the end of February.
In Review
Third Week of January 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): To Farmers. Having recently put into my mill one of Laffel’s Double American Turbine
Water Wheels, I am prepared to do all kinds of grinding and give as good quality of work as any mill in the
country. Farmers coming from a distance can have their flour immediately to return with. Flour kept constantly
on hand and delivered to any part of the village free of charge. C. Raymond.
130 Years Ago (1877): Burchie J., only child of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. C. Taggart, aged nearly one year and a
half, died Saturday morning last and was buried Sunday. Funeral at Free Will Baptist church. Sermon by Rev.
McKenney.
120 Years Ago (1887): The C. & N. W. railroad company has bought several acres of land at Lyden, and the
people of that section are wild with the idea that the car repair shops will be located there instead of Janesville
or Evansville.
110 Years Ago (1897): E. P. Colton, who was a representative of the C. & N. W. Ry. at the City Council
meeting, stated that the extension of Water St. across the tracks would be a great inconvenience to the
company on account of the location of the water tank and coal sheds. The Mayor referred the matter to the
City Attorney and committees. The opening of Railroad Street was brought up and the committee reported that
the best method, in their judgment was to extend Railroad Street to Water St., but owing the expense
necessarily incurred they did not recommend this plan at present. [Note: Railroad Street was renamed Maple
Street.]
100 Years Ago (1907): Halstead and Parkin were busy yesterday plowing the ice on the pond east of their ice
house, and are now rushing the ice as fast as possible into the ice house. The ice is about fifteen inches thick,
and previous to the present cold snap, they have been able to house but a small quantity of ice. The smile on
the faces of the gentlemen indicate that they will be able to furnish sufficient ice for their patrons during the
coming season.
90 Years Ago (1917): W. F. Biglow has returned from a trip to Des Moines, Iowa, where he purchased of the
Des Moines Casket Co. a late model auto hearse, delivery of which is promised April 1. The hearse, which will
probably be the only auto hearse in Rock County, was manufactured by the Des Moines Casket Company of
which W. H. Antes, formerly of this city, is president and general manager.
80 Years Ago (1927): The men of Evansville turned out royally last Tuesday evening at the Community Club
banquet to welcome George Little and our old townsman, Rollie Barnum. There were 134 present at the
tables, the dinner being prepared and served by the ladies of the Methodist Church. After the dinner there was
a call for “Barney”, and with many blushes, he got up on his feet, and in a very creditable manner thanked the
people for the honor of being there and for their honest hearty welcome. He spoke several kindly words for
Coach Little and predicted that if he was left alone at the University he would bring about wonderful results in
athletics. Coach Little, in his talk, told the people of Evansville that in “Barney” they had a man of whom they
had already heard much of on the athletic field and that in his opinion in the future they would hear much more,
for they had in him one of the best football and basketball men of his day.
70 Years Ago (1937): Decator DeForrest was reelected president and Warren Brown, vice president, at the
annual meeting of the Baker Credit Union held here Tuesday night in the city hall. Other officers are as
follows: E. M. Jones, secretary; Clyde Babcock, treasurer; and Leedle Denison, director. The credit committee
is composed of Lyle Wells, Charles Thompson, and Robert Fraser. Charles Winsor and Lewis Spencer
comprise the new auditing committee. The union, which paid a six per cent dividend on Jan. 2, on the 1936
deposits, now has 110 members, 38 of whom joined during the past year with one withdrawal. A total of 85
members hold fully paid shares with ten partially paid shares. Total Assets of the credit union are $5,770.81.
60 Years Ago (1947): With A. C. Holmes and A. H. Devine serving as installing officers, the following Masons
were seated in their stations at a ceremony performed here Tuesday evening in the Masonic temple: George
Greenway, worshipful master; Arthur Tomlin, senior warden; B. J. Bakke, junior warden; Don Every, secretary;
L. P. Eager, treasurer; Eugene Martin, senior deacon; J. C. McKenna, junior deacon; Stanley Perry, chaplain;
M. V. Allen and Edwin Devine, stewards, and William Phelps, Tyler.
50 Years Ago (1957): New officers of the Home Gardeners club are Mrs. Byron Holmes, president; Mrs. Paul
Phillipson, vice president; Mrs. Phil Klitzman, secretary-treasurer.
60 Years Ago (1967): Airman Tom S. Cain, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Cain, Evansville has been assigned
to Vandenberg AFB, Calif., after completing Air Force basic training in San Antonio. The airman, a 1962
graduate of Evansville High School, will be trained on the job as a communications specialist with the Strategic
Air Command. Airman Cain attended Wisconsin State College at Whitewater.
30 Years Ago (1977): .Ms. Brenda Martin is the new vocal music instructor at Evansville Middle School. Ms.
Martin will take over for Miss Lois Schmidt at the Middle School while Miss Schmidt moves to the high school to
replace Mrs. Lynn Panosh, who left Evansville school system to join her husband at his new job at the
Performing Arts Center in Milwaukee. Ms. Martin’s duties as middle school vocal music instructor will include
directing three choirs, teaching a general music class covering music appreciation, theory and composition;
and directing the Middle Schools’ production of the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, HMS Pinafore, at the Middle
School this spring. Miss Martin taught for one year at the River Falls, Wis., Jr. High and has worked with the
Madison Civic Opera and the Madison Savoyards. She is on the executive board of the Savoyards and most
recently appeared as Kate in the Savoyard’s production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s, The Pirates of Penazance,
last summer in Madison. She also appeared as Pitti Sing in the Savoyard’s production of The Mikado. She has
also been a member of the Madison Festival Choir and taught private voice lessons. Miss Martin is originally
from Bloomington, Wis. and holds a degree in Music Education from UW-Platteville.
20 Years Ago (1987): Seventh grader Rachel Mackie is one of the 270 talented young musicians from 68
schools, 37 cities and 12 counties of southern Wisconsin who take part in the Wisconsin Youth Symphony
Orchestras. She plays in the Philharmonic Orchestra now in their 21st season. Rachel, daughter of Mr. and
Mrs. Ralph Mackie began studying cello at the age of three and a half, in Janesville, while attending a
Montessori School. She was introduced to the Suzuki method which teaches very young children to play the
violin, cello, or piano. Mrs. Mackie (Michelle) plays the cello. She felt she could help her daughter with an
instrument she knew. Rachel is currently a student of Martha Pickart in Beloit. Rachel’s brother, Rob, 8 ½ also
plays the cello.
10 years ago (1997): Two candidates have surfaced for the position of Supervisor in the Town of Union.
Kendall Schneider and Donald Elmer are both seeking the seat being vacated by Norman Hatlen, who has
chosen not to seek re-election. Other candidates seeking offices are Supervisor incumbent Dean George, who
is unopposed; Chairman Wayne Disch; Sharon Franklin, Treasurer; and Linda O’Leary, Clerk.
In Review
Fourth Week of January 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): James S. Carle came here from Center some two years ago, and engaged in business
with Mr. Alex Winston, but after a brief partnership purchased the entire interest, and became sole proprietor.
Goods at this time were at war prices but soon went down, leaving a small margin for profits, but with energy
and capitol combined, Mr. Carle has kept up, and now informs us that “he is doing well.” He proposes at the
present time to close out his goods, sell his store and move to Missouri, but circumstances may change his
purposes, when he will re-enter the business with a full stock of general merchandise. He is now selling goods
at reduced rates and consequently obtains a large trade just at this time.
130 Years Ago (1877): By the failure of Mr. Hoffman, a banker and real estate dealer of Elk Point, Dakota,
quite a number of our moneyed citizens are brought into the limbos. Upwards of $40,000, we hear, has been
sent to that man for investment, on individual security, and the prospects are now that they will not realize over
twenty-five per cent, on their loans, and this after a tedious adjudication in bankrupt court. We understand
further, that this whole affair was brought about by the secret workings of one person which makes the case
more distressing than it otherwise would have been.
120 Years Ago (1887): Notices were posted Wednesday for a special town meeting to be held at the town hall,
Saturday, February 5th, to see if the town of Union will vote to be separated from the village of Evansville. The
matter of separation is being somewhat agitated with a view to that project, but as near as we can learn, a small
faction of the voters of the town of Union are favorable to it. There can be no reasonable demand on the score
of finance, for there is no town in the county whose business is managed with better economy than Union.
There would be a greater distribution of town offices to be sure, but they are barren of any great emoluments.
The expenses of the town shall go if it wants to, and “bid it God’s speed,” but the movement looks to be unwise
and savors of jealousy on the part of a very few more than wise financiering. The village does not vote upon
the question but if carried by the town then the village will be called on to give its consent. The great question
of the secession was pretty well argued in the 60s’ and it was found that both parties must consent to an
agreement of separation.
110 Years Ago (1897): About 7 o’clock Thursday evening, Mrs. Ray Gillman locked her part of the house and
went into the other part occupied by her daughter, who is sick. A few minutes later Fred Gillman and Clint
Scofield started down town, when Fred noticed the front door to his mother’s part of the house open and went
back and shut it, but suspicious of something wrong went in and found the back doors, which were left locked,
all unlocked and open, and heard someone run out the back way across the garden. Mr. Stevens’ son, who
lives next door heard someone run also, but nothing has been missed from the house. In all probability they
were frightened away before completing their job, and it is thought that it was some one well acquainted, who
thought Mrs. Gillman was at her husband’s store, where she spends nearly every evening.
100 Years Ago (1907): Invitations are issued for the wedding of Miss Matilda Acheson to Charles A. Gibson at
the home of the bride’s parents in Magnolia, on Thursday, Feb. 14. The couple will make their home in South
Dakota.
90 Years Ago (1917): The Saxon garage, under the proprietorship of Harry Loomis and W. J. Rowley, is
carrying an announcement in this issue of the Review. The handsome new garage, which is located on the lot
west of the Central House, will probably be formally opened with a dance about February 1. As its name
implies, the garage will be headquarters for the Saxon car. Mr. Loomis was formerly manager of the Central
House, and Mr. Rowley was foreman of the Bucyrus foundry, in Milwaukee, for a long time.
80 Years Ago (1927): Announcements have been received here by relatives and friends of the marriage of
Leslie Miles, Madison, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chauncey Miles of this city to Myrtle Antoinette Skrenes, also of
Madison, which took place Jan 15. They are making their home in Madison.
70 Years Ago (1937): A state crew which was at work here Thursday and Monday seining Lake Leota in an
effort to put the body of water in better condition for the production of game fish, removed approximately
15,000 pounds of carp which were hauled in live trucks to a storage pond at Lake Koshkonong from where they
will later either be shipped to the New York market or canned for fish and animal food. Employment of state
crews in this work is a comparatively new enterprise. Under the direction of Robert A. Gray state crews are
making every effort to remove small as well as large carp. Wisconsin’s expanded game fish program and
extensive operations at the Experimental Game and Fur farm, Poynette, requires many tons of food. The
conservation department has established a canning plant on the grounds of the Madison fish hatchery.
Canned carp is fed to young game fish and has also become part of the diet of animals at the state farm. Carp
came to the United States and Wisconsin a half century ago when it was felt that they would make a valuable
addition to the fish life in this country. They were brought in and propagated by the U. S. Department of
Fisheries. They are prized for food in Europe and Asia. Carp had no more than become established in this
country than people found that they were undesirable and there has been a persistent demand to get rid of
them ever since. Carp slow down the production of game fish and interfere with spawning grounds and weed
beds that harbor small fish and eradicate weed beds that furnish a necessary food supply for aquatic waterfowl.
60 Years Ago (1947): The 11th annual meeting of St. John’s Lutheran Church was held last Friday evening in
the parish house under the chairmanship of the Rev. A. M. Romstad. Reports of the past year were ready.
New council members elected are Ray Rosen, Robert Turner, Alf Algrim, and Stanley Jensen. The other eight
members whose terms have not expired are Harold Spersrud, Howard Becher, Arthur Lee, Ernest Edwards,
Gilman Spersrud, Ernest Kopp, Leo Brunsell and Lester Patterson. Mrs. Harold Spersrud was reelected
superintendent of the Saturday religious school, in charge of the junior department and Mrs. Robert Turner
was reelected superintendent of the senior department. The pastor reported an enrollment of 132 in Saturday
school. Miss Annette Hyne was reappointed office secretary; Mrs. E. M. Cannelin, organist, and Otto Guse and
Chris Olson, custodians of buildings and grounds. Rev. Romstad reported the following facts: congregational
membership, 408; communion services, 12; marriages, 15; burials, 6; infant baptisms, 17; adult baptisms, 5;
juniors confirmed, 11; adults confirmed 9.
50 Years Ago (1957): Four new directors were elected by Evansville Chamber of Commerce: Mrs. Dee Losey,
Ray Knapp, Ben Green and Dr. E. W. Krueger.
60 Years Ago (1967): Master Sgt. Marvin F. Hollibush, son of Mrs. Anamae Dobbs is now serving in Vietnam.
He is a supply inventory specialist and a member of the Pacific Air Force which provides air power to maintain
the U. S. defense posture in the Pacific and conducts air operations in Southeast Asia. Hollibush is a Korean
War veteran and attended Evansville High School. His wife, Mary is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter
Wagner of Milwaukee.
30 Years Ago (1977): William Wood, 328 W. Main, Evansville, who has been the business manager for the
Evansville School District for twelve years, is retiring at the end of the present school year. Mr. Wood, who is
66, said he thought it was just getting to be time to retire and let another person take over his job and
responsibilities. Mr. Wood first came to his present job in 1965 after working since 1947 at the Evansville City
Hall. While employed by the City, he was in charge of the Water and Light Department accounts. When J. C.
McKenna left his post as school business manager, Mr. Wood stepped in. Mr. Wood is a life-long resident of
the Evansville area, except for the time away from the city during military service. He has served under six
superintendents and said his work at the school and his association with both the administrative and faculty
staff has been, for the larger part, pleasant and productive.
20 Years Ago (1987): This year’s AFC students Helga Schepers of Belgium and Andres Torrel of Sweden, will
present a slide program and talk about their native countries and experiences. The public is invited to this
presentation which will be next Sunday evening, January 18 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Catholic Church.
10 years ago (1997): The ballot for the city election April 1 will have two vacancies. No one filed papers for the
3rd Ward and for the 1st Ward one year vacancy. Former city councilman Dale Bryant has filed for a two-year
4th Ward seat. He will vie with incumbent Ron Jennings, who has filed for re-election. Thomas Cothard has
filed for re-election in Ward 2 and Thane Anderson, newly appointed to the 1st Ward vacancy, created by the
resignation of Eric Pease, has filed for this position.
In Review
Last Week of January – First Week of February 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Married. At Allen’s Grove, on the 24th inst. At the residence of the bride’s mother, by
Rev. R. W. Bosworth, Mr. C. H. Wilder, of Evansville, to Miss Nettie B. Lee.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Landon’s family awoke Monday morning with an unusual amount of headache on
hand, but did not smell the cause until about breakfast time when they discovered that the cover of the coal
stove had been left slightly ajar. They felt themselves fortunate that a door leading into another apartment on
the house had been left open, where most of the gas escaped.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. Aller loaded up what few collaterals he needed Tuesday, and hied away to
Johnstown, to take the superintendency of Rock county poor farm. Few people, one year ago, ever thought
our wealthy and honored citizen would be obliged to go to the county poor house to be supported at the county’
s expense but such is the real fact. The county thought him to be the best man it had for the place, however,
both his old neighbors and towns people were to part with him. Mr. Aller leaves sharing the good wishes of all
and has the confidence and hope of the balance of the county that he is just the man for that place. [Note:
Peter Aller was the superintendent of the Rock County Poor Farm and Insane Asylum for many years, first at
Johnstown and later at Janesville. His son, Arthur P. Aller, was associated with his father in the management of
the facility and in 1900 was appointed as steward for the Northern Asylum for the Insane at Oshkosh.]
110 Years Ago (1897): Lawrence Huff, of Magnolia, has traded farms with E. P. Wixom, of Janesville, Mr.
Wixom trading his sixty-eight acres for Mr. Huff’s two hundred acres. Both farms are in the town of Magnolia.
The transaction comprised $15,000 of property value.
100 Years Ago (1907): A Rambler model twenty-one was received by the local agent of that machine,
Clarence Baker, Tuesday and notwithstanding the unsatisfactory conditions of the roads, made good showing
upon our streets that day. This machine is commonly known as general utility cars, and is in marked advance
of any machine yet turned out. The body of model twenty-one is a strictly new design of the convertible type, in
which the connection between the detachable tonneau and forward part of the body is so designed that the
unpleasant appearance of earlier convertible bodies is entirely overcome. The price of this car is $1,350 and it
is a beauty.
90 Years Ago (1917): On Tuesday evening a farewell reception was given Rev. Leroy A. Jahn, at the home of
Mrs. C. E. Lee, on First Street. There was a large company present, including the members of St. John’s
Episcopal Church, members of the boys’ vested choir and the Sunday School. Musical numbers were given,
refreshments were served, and a most pleasant evening was enjoyed by all present. Rev. Jahn has been
rector of St. John’s Episcopal church for nearly three years, and during that time has won a wide circle of
friends who regret his departure; he has done splendid work in the Sunday School and with the choir boys, as
well as with the boy scouts, and he will be greatly missed by these young lads. Rev. Jahn took his departure
Wednesday for Elkhorn, where he has accepted a call as rector of St. John’s church in that city, which has a
much larger congregation than the local church. His departure will be felt in the city, as well as in his church,
yet his numerous friends rejoice that he was extended the call to take charge of the Elkhorn church, and wish
him every possible success in his new field of labor. A student from Nashota will have charge of the Sunday
services at the local church.
80 Years Ago (1927): Clar L. Franklin, daughter of Samuel and Sarah Franklin was born, February 15, 1864,
in the town of Union and departed from this life January 21, 1297. She has resided most of her life in the
township of Rutland. On March 13, 1887, she was united in marriage to Burr Courtier, who is left with three
children, Erle L., Mrs. Oliver Chapin, Mrs. Wm. Leeder and five grandchildren to mourn her loss. She also
leaves five brothers, Arthur, Lew, Frank, Fred, and Leon Franklin. Since her early life she has been a member
of the Union Baptist church. She was a member of the Columbia Chapter, 29, O.E.S., and the W.C.T.U., of
Brooklyn. The funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Masonic Temple, when after the sermon by
the Rev. Pratt of the Baptist Church, the Order of the Eastern Star, rendered their beautiful service in honor of
their departed sister. Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.
70 Years Ago (1937): For the first time since 1929 when business conditions were at their height, the Baker
Manufacturing Company, Evansville leading industrial plant, is operating on a six-day; 48-hour per week
schedule. The new time schedule went into effect the week of Jan. 10 and will be continued indefinitely in order
to build up sufficient warehouse stock to take care of spring orders. In order to keep up with production,
several new men have also been added to the factory force which now numbers nearly 130 employees.
60 Years Ago (1947): Despite yesterday’s blizzard, a large crowd of farmers were in the city attending the
Farmer’s Institute held as an all-day meeting in the Rex Theatre under the sponsorship o the Rock County
Agent.
50 Years Ago (1957): About 200 people turned out last Thursday for the annual meeting of the Union Co-
operative Assn., meetings at the Masonic Temple. Franklin Leeder was named president; Louis Nelson,
Oregon, vice-president; Morris Gilbertson, secretary; Dean George and Oliver Franklin directors.
60 Years Ago (1967): Six months ahead of schedule, Kim Gill, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Gill, will receive
his diploma at the U. S. Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, L. I., on February 10. The graduation marks
the realization of a childhood ambition for him. He will immediately enter the merchant service to fulfill his
military obligation. Because of the trained manpower shortage, the training course will be completed next
month instead of next August, the normal time. Gill will receive his certificate of third mate rating, and his
commission as an ensign in the naval reserve at the ceremonies. He graduated from Evansville High School in
1963, and was appointed to the academy by Sen. William Proxmire. He will be the only youth from the
Evansville community ever to graduate there.
30 Years Ago (1977): Last Sunday at 11:30 a.m. 19 snowmobiles and 29 people departed from the Red Barn
in Evansville for a ride to Indianford. New fallen snow, during the night enhanced the 40-mile round trip of the
local riders. The ride is the Shrine Annual Snowmobile Drive for Shrine Charities. The Evansville Sno-Devils
on the drive were Mr. and Mrs. John Edwards, Mr. and Mrs. Jud Spooner, Curt Hartzler, Sue Moe, Ron Phelps,
Ken Schmidt and son, Tom; Ruth Thompson, Les Golz, Mr. and Mrs. George Howard, Mr. and Mrs. Walter
Kueng, Mr. and Mrs. Chris Dickert, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Jeske, Mr. and Mrs. Reggie Huffel, and two children;
Mr. and Mrs. William Heritage and two children, Ron Buttchen and Kathy Garvoille.
20 Years Ago (1987): This past weekend the Evansville Boosters held a very successful gun show at the Red
Barn. Over 1,000 attended this annual event to see the wares of dealers who filled 41 tables. Prize winners
were 12-gauge shotgun, G. Reese of Footville; half hog, David Cartwright of Whitewater; half hog, Dwight
Redders of Evansville; $50 savings bond, Ricky Schlitzer, Evansville; $25 savings bond, Perry Gallman,
Evansville; and binoculars, Ken Gallman, Evansville. The hog was donated by Chris Dickert and the binoculars
by Larry Kettle. Members of the Booster Club appreciate the support of those who attended this civic event.
10 years ago (1997): Blue Devil Wrestlers traveled to Brookfield to compete in an eight-team tournament
comprised mainly of Division I schools. Eleven wrestlers made the trip and all of them won places. Blue Devil
Wrestlers at the tournament were Brian Cufaude, Adam Bradley, Dennis Petersen, Dale Creighton, Doug
Braucher, Rick Carlson, Kevin Schneider, Dan Phillips, Paul Nardini, Terry Delzer and Jesse Rice.
FEBRUARY 2007
IN REVIEW - RESEARCHED BY RUTH ANN MONTGOMERY
In Review
First Week of February 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Janesville is making a strenuous effort to provide the city with every possible means
that human ingenuity can invent to prevent another conflagration by the organization of bucket companies and
having water facilities perfectly under their command. Evansville will have need to lose property, to doubly
exceed the cost of an engine, or the simple organization of a bucket company, before our citizens will awake to
the necessity of having something done to prevent a general conflagration. A few long substantial ladders, and
buckets kept in accessible places at our stores, so that people could have something to work with, and under
the charge of a competent leader much real good could be done towards saving property; but as it is now
nothing will prevent a general conflagration should a fire once be kindled.
130 Years Ago (1877): Evansville Graded School. Primary Department. Pupils neither absent nor tardy, for
the month ending February 2d, 1877. Asa Bemis, Harry Bemis, Johnnie Baker, Elsie Baker, Dora Ballard,
Maud Backenstoe, Eva Campbell, Leo Campbell, Allen Clifford, Sammie Cole, Victor Eager, Minnie Sargent,
Artie Snashall, Johnie Evans, Nellie Heron, Cora Holman, Lizzie Monshau, Marcia Treat, Kittie West, Therman
Whaley, Irvin Whaley, Gusta Hanover, Myta Siver, Leo Bevier, May Walker, Emmet Heron, Frankie Johnson.
Mrs. C. W. Powles, Teacher.
120 Years Ago (1887): Willie Stiles, youngest son of Mr. George Stiles had his leg broken in two places on the
toboggan slide Saturday. The Toboggan Club regrets exceedingly that an accident should have happened at
their slide so early like that of breaking Willie Stiles’ leg, Friday. Although the Club knew nothing of it, and even
the little boy himself is unable to account for the accident. Several parties of boys were sliding at the same
time, and it is thought Willie must have allowed his leg to protrude over the sled and strike against the side of
the chute as he was descending.
110 Years Ago (1897): The Ladies Auxiliary of the Farmer’s Institute, held in this city the 28th and 29th insts.
Proved a decided success. Mrs. Vie Campbell presided with grace and dignity, she said in opening that she
believed that the holding of a separate meeting by the ladies was, in Wisconsin, an innovation. If this is the
case other towns may profit by our example. Mrs. Risa Tullar’s paper on “Mothers and their Relation to the
Common Schools” was excellent, those mother who did not hear it will do well to read it when it appears in
print. Mrs. Mihills had a practical paper on “Beds and Bedding” which was well received. A very practical and
useful paper was read by Mrs. Mary Brigham in which she told her experience in poultry raising in such a lucid
manner that anyone could not fail to understand just how she cared for her poultry. Dr. Ewing spoke a few
minutes on “House Sanitation” in her talk reminding us that cold air is not always fresh, pure air, and that air
may be perfectly pure when quite hot. Between the papers, Mr. Gillies favored the audience with a fine solo.
Mrs. Richardson’s “Rag Babies” who sang for the institute are the children of the Richardson and Franklin
families, of Cooksville.
100 Years Ago (1907): Married: Miss Matilda Acheson and Mr. Chas. Gibson were united in marriage at 7 o’
clock, Feb. 14, 1907, at the bride’s home in Magnolia; Rev. T. W. North performed the ceremony in the
presence of about a hundred relatives and friends. Promptly at 7, Miss Lola Acheson began playing the
wedding march and the happy couple, unattended, took their places beneath a beautiful white bell and the
words that united them forever were spoken. The house was handsomely decorated in cut flowers, ferns and
hearts. After congratulations, the guests partook of a sumptuous dinner. The Misses Leta and Zita Acheson
served at the bridal table while five girl friends of the bride residing in Magnolia served the guests. The groom
is a prosperous farmer and owns a fine farm near Kimball, S. D. He and his bride, accompanied by the bride’s
father, David Acheson, will leave in about two weeks for that place.
90 Years Ago (1917): The Meredith brothers entertained the Young People’s Social club at their home one
evening last week. About thirty persons enjoyed their hospitality. Cards were played, high scores being won
by Miss Kittie Croak and Dick Dawson. A delicious four course supper was served, after which a few hours
were devoted to music. At a late hour the guests departed, declaring the Meredith boys grand entertainers.
The club will meet next week with Nellie Maloy.
80 Years Ago (1927): At the meeting Monday evening, the directors of the Rock County Fair named the
following department superintendents for the ensuing year and also elected a director tot ake the place of
Leonard Eager. Superintendent of Gates: C. W. Babcock; Horses, John Johnson; Cattle, Peter Templeton;
Sheep, Geo. Emery; Swine, Wade Woodworth; Poultry, H. A. Blakely; Floral, Mrs. Mae Shreve; Horticulture, R.
Anderson; woman’s, Lulu Van Patten; Culinary, Mrs. Wm. Schneider; Youths, Mrs. Maude Axtell; Education,
Miss Amy Perry; Machinery, Mr. Roy Lewis; Grounds, Z. W. Miller; Privileges, R. C. Searles; Rural Schools,
Hazel Murphy; Junior Club, R. G. Glassgo; Committee on Premium book, Dr. C. S. Ware, W. S. Gollmar, R. J.
Antes, and J. C. Robinson. H. H. Loomis was elected director to succeed Leonard Eager.
70 Years Ago (1937): Coasting along to a 29 to 22 victory, Coach O’Neil’s high school cagers were not
extended very much to defeat the Monticello quintet in a fracas played there Tuesday night. The Golz brothers
were the standouts for the local Blues with six points apiece. Jefferson comes for a return game here tomorrow
night. The Blues defeated Jefferson 33 to 16 before Christmas but since that time the opponents have
improved tremendously. Brodhead is now in a tie with Evansville for second place in the conference. Still
experimenting with the starting line-up due to the absence of Clayton Sperry and Jack McKenna who are out
with injuries, Coach O’Neil will probably start tomorrow night’s game with Al Golz and Ted Thompson as
forwards, Babe Brunsell at center, and Don Montgomery and Bernie Golz at the guard positions. Ted
Greenway and Don Rosen are expected to see action at the forward and center posts.
60 Years Ago (1947): The first meeting of the Congregational Church Couples’ club held Monday evening in
the Church, Ray Knapp was elected president; E. W. Johnson, secretary; and Harold Tait, treasurer. The
group’s next meeting will be held in March with Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Devine, Mr. and Mrs. E. W. Johnson, Mr. and
Mrs. Harold Tait, and Mr. and Mrs. Ray Staffeld on the arrangements committee. Monday evening’s activities
were planned by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Erstad, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Knapp, and the
Rev. and Mrs. Francis Kranz. The program included solos by Robert Erstad accompanied by Mrs. R. J. Gray,
who also played for group singing.
50 Years Ago (1957): Dr. P. S. Kauth completes 25 years of practice as a chiropractor in Evansville. Dr. P. S.
Kauth, who took over the chiropractic practice here of Dr. Helen Logic in 1932, maintained offices both in
Evansville and Beloit for a year and then in March 1933 devoted his entire time to Evansville patients and
moved his family from Beloit to this city. Dr. Kauth was graduated from Palmer School of Chiropractic at
Davenport, Ia., in 1921 after which he opened his first office in Harvard, Ill. He began practicing in Beloit in
1928.
60 Years Ago (1967): Karen Kopp, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Kopp has been named Co-Ed
Correspondent for the 1966-67 school year. Her appointment was made by Mrs. Franklin Bradley, home
economics teacher at the Evansville High School. Selected for her qualities of leadership by her classmates,
Miss Kopp will serve as junior advisor to the editors of Co-Ed national magazine for teenage girls published by
Scholastic Magazines, Inc.
30 Years Ago (1977): David Schuh has enlisted in the regular army and left early last week for Ft. Knox,
Kentucky where he is presently stationed. Karl Rasmussen also left last Wednesday for Ft. Jackson, South
Carolina for basic training and instruction after enlisting in the army..
20 Years Ago (1987): Ann Prudhon, age 7, gave a private violin recital at her home on County Trunk C. The
recital was given as a graduation recital from Book I of the Suzuki Violin School, totaling 18 pieces. Assisting
Ann in the recital were her teacher and husband, Alison and Al Jewer of rural Milton, Randy Prudhon and Carol
Prudhon. Thirty-six friends and relatives attended the event. Ann’s parents are Dr. and Mrs. Gene Prudhon.
10 years ago (1997): Karen Fisher of Evansville, daughter of Shirley and Bob Fisher of Evansville, and single
mom of 4, graduated Magna Cum Laude from UW-Whitewater. A December grad, she earned her Bachelor of
Arts degree in social work. Karen attended grade school in Evansville and graduated from the high school in
Dakota, IL. Her four children are Josh, Nicholas, Heather and Angela.
In Review
Second Week of February 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The Revival: The special meetings for the conversion of souls continue to be held in
the Baptist and Methodist Churches. The latter is filled every evening and jammed on Sabbath. Nearly thirty
have been converted or reclaimed; and the interest continues unabated. Last Sabbath the Sunday School and
General Class were united and took the form of a Love Feast, minus the bread and water. The singing of the
scholars added much to the joy of the meetings; many of them also testified their personal and happy
knowledge of the Savior. Opportunity being offered, five joined the Church by letter and twenty-two on
probation. At the Baptist Church the pastor and flock continue to labor with their accustomed zeal and their
efforts have been rewarded by the hopeful conversion of ten or more. The services of The Rev. Mr. Brown of
Honey Creek, contribute much to the interest of their meetings. Special services were held this week in the
Congregational Church. We are pleased with these indications of moral prosperity in our village. How much
brighter are the prospects of a community where youth are crowding around God’s altars, than one where
young men squander their time and money in bar rooms and billiard saloons. Few villages of the size of ours
can boast of four working churches, such as we shall have as soon as the Regular Baptist shall have finished
theirs in the Spring.
130 Years Ago (1877): At the close of the present term of the High School, an entertainment will be given, the
proceeds of which will be devoted to the purchase of an organ. The programme will occupy two evenings, will
be participated in by each of the departments, and will bring out a variety of exercises, that will afford the surest
possible guarantee of “Entertainment.” Keep it in mind.
120 Years Ago (1887): Union School. Monthly report of School District No. 1, town of Union. The number
enrolled is 31, the average 27. Names of those perfect in attendance and punctuality: Lyman Gillies, Milton
Fairbanks, John Johnson, Flora Bullock, Blanche Brigham, Maud Gillies, Mabel Bullock. Anna L. Cutts,
Teacher.
110 Years Ago (1897): Wm. Wray died at his home in Cooksville, Saturday evening, Feb. 13, 1897. Funeral
this Tuesday afternoon. Various rumors are afloat relative to the cause of Mr. Wray's death, some saying that
liquor and a quarrel was connected with it, but a coroners inquest and post mortem examination was held at
which Dr. Colony was present and he states to us that the cause of his death was heart disease and the
bursting of a blood vessel.
100 Years Ago (1907): At the recent gathering of the Wisconsin Sheep Breeders’ association at Madison,
Arthur Broughton and S. L. Crall of Evansville, were elected directors.
90 Years Ago (1917): H. S. Spooner has purchased the farm occupied by John Pearson and will take
possession on March 1. Elmer Devlin will occupy the farm where Mr. Spooner is now living. Floyd Steele is
preparing to move on the Robert Steele farm. Another house is being built on the farm for the former
gentleman. Will Kleinsmith, Sr., who has been living on the John Wall farm, soon will move to the northern part
of the state. Burle Williams, who has been living on a farm on the county line, is preparing to take possession
of the Frank Hyne farm, which has been occupied by Sumner Wadsworth, who will move to town. Walter
Williams, who has been living on Montgomery Court, will move on the farm with his son, Burle.
80 Years Ago (1927): The fire department was called Monday to the Dan Finnane farm north of town where
some trash which had dropped down the radiator caught fire and made a big smoke, but did no damage. Mr.
Finnane was in Evansville gathering garbage at the time and hearing the alarm was at his place, pushed the
lines so hard to hurry his horse, who knew it wasn’t dinner time yet, that he hasn’t been able to get the kinks
out of the lines yet. Though there was no damage to speak of, Dan “set ‘em up” to the fire boys, in real Irish
style and outside of the damage to the lines he pushed on so hard, everything is again lovely.
70 Years Ago (1937): After 46 years of faithful service, Robert L. Finn, lifelong resident of Evansville and one
of the city’s most prominent business men, will retire March 1 as manager of the shoe department of the
Grange store. Mr. Finn’s familiar face and cordial greetings will be missed by many of the store’s customers.
Albert C. Holmes, who has served as postmaster here for the past ten years and who is to be succeeded at
that post by Roy Reckord, has been appointed by the store directors to take charge of the shoe department.
He will assume his new duties in the store March 1.
60 Years Ago (1947): The Rock County Sheriff’s Department was called to Evansville last Friday afternoon to
break a traffic jam involving 150 cars north of the city. The jam started when an auto drawn house trailer
stalled on Finnane’s hill. Snowplows had cut a narrow one-way path through the deep drifts and snow was
piled 20 feet high on both sides. Thawing weather brought snow slides vaulting down into the cut during the tie-
up. The department arrived here at 4:30 p.m. and by 5:30 traffic was moving orderly.
50 Years Ago (1957): Dr. E. W. Krueger was elected president, Ray Knapp, vice-president and Dee Losey
secretary-treasurer at a meeting of the Evansville Chamber of Commerce.
60 Years Ago (1967): Mrs. and Mrs. Emmett Miller, Route 2, Evansville, will observe their silver wedding
anniversary with open house at the Center Town Hall, Magnolia Rd., Sunday, Feb. 19 from 2 to 5. Relatives,
neighbors and friends are invited. Mae Bratzke and Emmett Miller were married in the parsonage of the Zion
Lutheran Church by the Rev. H. J. Gruell, Feb. 21, 1942. This date also marks the golden wedding
anniversary of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bratzke of Route 4. Janesville. They have four children,
Kenneth, Route 1, Evansville, Mrs. Eugene Johnston and Mrs. Eric Runaas of Evansville and Mrs. Gerald
Johnson of Albany and three grandchildren.
30 Years Ago (1977): Evansville’s Property Tax Board of Review met for an unofficial session in front of the
cameras and microphones of the UW-Extension Media Center in the City Hall Council Chamber last Monday
morning. The Center was working with the State Department of Revenue on a slide and sound presentation
which will be shown to taxpayer groups around the state with questions on how the assessing and valuation
system works. Assessor Harry Hayter offered his performance as an assessor addressing a Board of Review
Meeting..
20 Years Ago (1987): A new road, to be called Countryside Drive, is being installed on the east side of town on
the north side of Hwy. 14. Two lots were approved by the Council at the December meeting to allow the land to
be used commercially. A car wash is planned which will include 3 to 4 bays, with a possible bay for trucks and
one for automatic. Building should begin as soon as spring breaks. The plan is to put in Countryside Drive,
paved with blacktop, with sewer, water and gutter, to be intended for future growth to the north and east.
10 years ago (1997): At the City Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 11, the Council and Mayor DiSalvo will
discuss and most likely approve a survey, to be mailed to the citizens of Evansville about their preferences
concerning a city hall. The goal is to conduct a referendum in the coming months that will feature at most three
alternatives for the location of the city hall, with cost estimates. Before then, the Mayor and Council are
registering citizens’ preferences through the survey.
In Review
Third Week of February 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Call and Settle. All persons indebted to J. M. Evans & Co. for goods, medicine, or
medical treatment, during the years 1865 and 1866, are requested to call and settle their accounts without
delay. EVANS, QUIVEY & SMITH. Evansville. Feb. 20, 1867. [Note: Drs, John M. Evans, William Quivey and
Charles M. Smith were Evansville physicians and also ran a drug store at 1 East Main Street. Quivey planned
to move to the state of Oregon to join his father and other family members. In 1868, Quivey left Evansville and
Evans and Smith continued in business. Quivey’s son, William, Jr. returned to Evansville in the 1880s.]
130 Years Ago (1877): Evansville Graded School. Primary Department. Pupils neither absent nor tardy for
the month ending February 2d, 1877: Asa Bemis, Harry Bemis, Johnnie Baker, Elsie Baker, Dora Ballard,
Maud Backenstoe, Eva Campbell, Leo Campbell, Allen Clifford, Sammie Cole, Victor Eager, Minnie Sargent,
Artie Snashall, Johnnie Evans, Nellie Heron, Cora Holman, Lizzie Monshau, Marcia Treat, Kittie West, Therman
Whaley, Irvin Whaley, Omer Whaley, Gusta Hanover, Myrta Siver, Leo Bevier, May Walker, Emmit Heron,
Frankee Johnson. Mrs. C. W. Powles, Teacher.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. James W. Gillies, who has charge of Mr. Jacob Bemis’ large Norman horses,
proposes going to Scotland in the spring and purchase a number of small, Shetland ponies.
110 Years Ago (1897): Little 8 months old Grace, daughter of Frank and Ida Hynes died Wednesday morning,
Feb. 17, 1897 of pneumonia, after an illness of but a few hours. Funeral was held today at one o’clock.
100 Years Ago (1907): The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kleinsmith, died Sunday evening from the effects
of whooping cough. The little boy was an unusually bright one for his age of only seven months, and the grief-
stricken parents feel the loss keenly. They have the sympathies of a host of friends,
90 Years Ago (1917): George J. Gollmar, sixty-five years old, well known here, died at his home in Baraboo
last Friday, and was buried on Sunday. He had been ill only ten days. Mr. Gollmar, who had been retired from
active business for about five years, achieved quite a little fame by being the inventor of a bell-ringer used on
locomotives, operated by air or steam. His invention is in use on all Chicago & Northwestern locomotives, as
well as on engines of several railroads. He was a skilled machinist at one time being foreman of the Chicago &
Northwestern railroad’s machine shops. He had been in business for himself, operating a large machine shop
and garage. Mr. Gollmar was the oldest of the Gollmar children. He made frequent visits in this city, having
been here only three weeks ago. He leaves a wife, three daughters, two sons, a sister and six brothers, among
the latter being W. S. Gollmar of this city.
80 Years Ago (1927): Mr. and Mrs. Lew Fellows returned last Monday from California, where they have been
spending the winter at Los Angeles and Long Beach. They made the trip, of 3,061 miles in twelve days, being
routed through Louisiana, Tennessee and Arkansas, on account of high water in many places. The travel
clubs along the way, however routed them by way of hard roads and they never got into the mud. Mr. Fellows
states that it is wonderful what the south is doing in the way of making hard roads. Just think of a state being
over a thousand miles across—yet that is what they found Texas to be. At Cairo, Ill., where they ran into
Highway No. 2, which runs in a bee line to Beloit, they found the Mississippi River five miles wide. He states that
a few days before leaving he visited the Evansville colony at Long Beach and found them doing fine and that C.
J. Pearsall is making a record of an expert golfer, while Vi Holmes as a ringer artist at horse shoes is making a
splendid reputation for Wisconsin.
70 Years Ago (1937): Evansville was not without flood damage last week-end. Allen creek, which passes
through the park and city, increased to the size of a river and had the ice backed up and jammed in Lake Leota
the spillways might have given way with a result of an extensive flood in that region. As it was, the water in the
creek raised within only a few inches of the five bridges in the city. Two men were stationed at the park
throughout the night Saturday to watch for a possible ice jam in the lake and were prepared to give immediate
warning to nearby residents if necessary. The basements of several buildings near the stream were flooded
and surface water completely surrounded the city sewage disposal plant where electric motors had to be
removed. Although the rip-rapping laid along Allen creek by the local WPA crew took a terrific beating, it held
up exceptionally well with the exception of two places where flag walks had been built on top of the walls.
60 Years Ago (1947): At its regular meeting held last Monday evening the American Legion decided to
sponsor a Chamber of Commerce for the city of Evansville. Harry Roderick Jr. has contacted the State
Secretary and arranged for a charter and the Legion has voted to pay all fees the first year. Evansville
businessmen will thus be able to join without charge. The purpose of forming a Chamber of Commerce at this
time is to provide a liaison group between the city and prospective new industries. The State Secretary has a
listing of industries interested in locating in Wisconsin. William H. Bewick, Legion Commander has appointed a
committee consisting of Don Thompson, Harold Hull and Walter Nitcher to contact Evansville businessmen and
organize the local chapter.
50 Years Ago (1957): James B. Davis, manager of the Grange IGA for several years, has resigned and has
moved south where he will represent Milwaukee Cheese Co. in Alabama, Georgia and Florida.
60 Years Ago (1967): An open house to observe the 40th wedding anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth R.
Dunbar, will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., Sunday Feb. 26 in their home. Relatives, friends and neighbors are
invited. The former Sarah Schneider and Kenneth Dunbar were married Feb. 28, 1927 in the Zwingli Swiss
Reform Parsonage, Monticello by the late Rev. A. Muehlmeier. The Dunbars are former Albany residents,
moving to their present home 31 years ago. They have three sons, Kenneth, Pascagoula, Miss., Raymond,
Omaha, Nebr., Wayne, Indianapolis, Ind., and four daughters, Mrs. William (Alma) Shultis, Coloma, Wis., Mrs.
Harold (Lilas) Miller, Evansville, Mrs. Jerry (Bettie) King, Indianapolis, Ind., and Mrs. Melvin (Bernice) Deaton,
Madison and nineteen grandchildren.
30 Years Ago (1977): An estimated 2,000 persons inspected the newly expanded Third Street Elementary
School Sunday afternoon. Tours began with an examination of new administrative offices and continued along
newly remodeled areas in the older building, eventually leading to the actual building addition with 15
classrooms, two kindergarten rooms, an instructional media center and a multi-purpose room. Visitors could
then sign the guest book and partake of refreshments in the older multi-purpose room. Superintendent
George Knuckles greeted visitors.
20 Years Ago (1987): Margo Losey, on tour with St. Olaf College choir for three weeks, spent a recent Monday
evening in Spokane, Washington, with her mother’s aunt Mildred Worley and daughter, when they gave a
performance there. The group gave a Thursday night performance in Seattle and she then was an overnight
guest of her brother, Luke Johnson. The choir gave performances in other cities, as they made the return trip
to Minnesota.
10 years ago (1997): Whitney Krause and Rachel Martin, both members of Girl Scout Troop #343, remind
Evansville buyers that cookies will be arriving during the first week of March. The Evansville Girl Scouts will be
delivering cookies to customers during the first week of March. Funds raised during the 1997 cookie campaign
will help to provide programming for the 11 local troops throughout the coming year. Many of the older troops
are planning camping experiences for the girls.
In Review
Last Week of February 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Houses Wanted. Doubtless if twenty-five good dwelling houses were immediately
erected in this village they would all be filled in less than two months. By the first of April quite a portion of our
inhabitants will be obliged to move and seek other habitations than what they now occupy. Why couldn’t some
one or two who are always “on the wing” put up a good tenement, the rent would be a good investment,
besides the idea of a permanent home contributes much to real happiness.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Case’s little boy Orrey, was thrown from a horse, Tuesday last by the horse
slipping down and striking his leg, broke the bone between the foot and the knee.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. William Benedix had a very good auction Wednesday, the 16th. The remaining of
his collaterals, together with a good horse team, he loads a car and sets off for the west—the Northeast corner
of Nebraska, almost under the Black Hills. His son who got jammed by dirt falling upon him in a cut below here
last fall is able to be about by the aid of crutches. They will be on their land in good season for the spring’s
work.
110 Years Ago (1897): Married. Courtier – Fairbanks. At the home of the bride in Union by Rev. O. P. Bestor,
Feb. 24, 1897, Mr. Lemmel B. Courtier and Miss A. Maud Fairbanks. The friends of the young people
congratulate them on the joyous event and rejoice that their future home is to be in Union where they are well
known.
100 Years Ago (1907): Charles and Nathan Kelley very pleasantly entertained the friends and neighbors last
Monday evening. Dancing was indulged in until a late hour, when they departed, having spent a most
enjoyable evening. Tuesday last Mrs. Kelley and son, Charles moved onto Peter Smith’s farm, where the latter
will work the coming year.
90 Years Ago (1917): Cars driven by Frank Hyne and Dr. George Spencer collided in front of the doctor’s
office Sunday morning damaging Dr. Spencer’s car to the extent of $15 or $20. Mr. Hyne was driving a Buick
car west, when the doctor, failing to see Mr. Hyne, turned his car out from the sidewalk and ran into the Hyne
car, which was only slightly damaged
80 Years Ago (1927): Fred Luchsinger left Monday evening for the Northern part of the state where he will
pick up another car load of dairy cows which he will bring to Evansville for sale. There will be a sale of twenty-
three high grade cows, tested and clean Tuesday, March 1, at one o’clock on the Fred Luchsinger farm 2 miles
S. E. of Evansville. Patterson and Knoll are the owners, D. F. Finnane the auctioneer and E. Libby clerk, with
the usual terms and 7 percent interest on bankable notes.
70 Years Ago (1937): The Hon. Peter E. Freuchen, world traveler, explorer and lecturer who recently arrived in
America from Copenhagen, Denmark, was a guest here last night of his cousin, Mrs. Eve Freuchen, 204 West
Main street. Mr. Freuchen has been making an extensive lecture tour in the East since his arrival in America
this month and has addressed large and enthusiastic audiences in Philadelphia, Buffalo, Flint, and Ann Arbor.
He left Evansville on the 9 o’clock train last night for Superior where he is scheduled to lecture this evening.
Mr. Freuchen is the author of the book “Eskimo” and director of the motion picture of that name which was
shown at the Magee theatre here two years ago. He visited Mrs. Freuchen two years ago during lecture
engagements in Chicago.
60 Years Ago (1947): Among Evansville’s new business enterprises since the close of the war is the Bennett
Monument Company located on the corner of Cherry and Water Streets. Ralph Bennett, who owns and
operates the business, received his honorable discharge November 1945, after serving with the army for three
and one-half years one of which was spent in the E. T. O. Before entering the service he operated a
Monument Company in Footville. Many people in this community will remember Mr. Bennett as a salesman
representing the Fred Schlimgen Memorials, Inc. of Madison, during 1932 to 1937. In November 1937, the
Fred Schlimgen Memorials, Inc. discontinued business. Mr. and Mrs. Bennett and two children, Karen and
Kenton, moved to Evansville in July.
50 Years Ago (1957): Beth Catherine Cain, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Cain, has been selected by the
Evansville high school faculty as the school’s nominee for the 1957 DAR good citizenship award.
60 Years Ago (1967): Members of the Cooksville Lutheran Church Choir, under the direction of Edwin Julseth,
have released an album of anthems entitled “Their Anthems Swell Where God Doth Dwell.” Now on sale as a
fund-raising project, the album consists of one long-play record featuring 10 anthems. The jacket for the
album portrays an artistic sketch of the Cooksville Church drawn by Joseph Hanson, president of the
congregation. The organist, Mrs. M. H. Hegge of Stoughton, is the widow of a former pastor. She has the
distinction of having had numerous anthems, arrangements and lyrics published by Augsburg Publishing House
of Minneapolis.
30 Years Ago (1977): Miss Sandra Jean Gray, Middleton, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Roger Sloan Gray,
Evansville, became the bride of Robert Christopher Heimerl, Madison, son of Dr. and Mrs. Robert G. Heimerl of
Evansville, in a ceremony performed at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, 1977 in the Evansville Congregational
United Church of Christ.
20 Years Ago (1987): Ernest and Beatrice McCaffrey, S. Madison Street, Evansville, observed their 62nd
wedding anniversary in a unique way on Feb. 24. Following a family anniversary dinner at the home of their
youngest daughter, Donna Jaggi, of Brodhead, the McCaffreys were whisked away to the Lester Detweiller farm
for a horse and buggy ride. After the ride they returned to the Jaggi house and were presented with a book of
their 66 years together. The McCaffreys were courting for four years before their marriage and still are a very
devoted and happy couple.
10 years ago (1997): Wayne Disch, Town of Union Chairman is unopposed and seeking re-election to the
post, having served in that capacity since 1979, when he was first elected. Sharon Franklin, unopposed, is
seeking the post of secretary in the Town of Union. She has been serving this past term. Mrs. Franklin and
her husband George, who is the Constable of the Town of Union, reside on W. Hy. 59. Dean George, long
time Town of Union Supervisor since 1985, is unopposed for the position. Kendall Schneider is a candidate for
Supervisor II for the Town of Union the seat which Norman Hatlen has held for 22 years. Don Elmer, who has
been a resident of the Town of Union for 48 years is running for the Supervisor seat, vacated by Norman
Hatlen, opposing Kendall Schneider.
In Review
First Week of March 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Married. In Evansville, Wis., Feb. 27th, 1867 by Rev. E. Robinson, Mr. Darius W.
Pepper and Miss Minnie Owen, both of Center.
130 Years Ago (1877): Village Election. The following is the ticket elected yesterday. The election was
animated, but we think no bad blood was spilt. The old question of “billiards or anti- billiards” was a vital issue,
resulting in favor of the anti-billiard party by a small majority. For President: A. S. Baker; For Trustees, Caleb
Snashall, David Stevens, Lewis Spencer, E. W. Beebe; For Clerk, Homer Potter; For Treasurer, R. Winston;
For Justice of the Peace, Jacob West; For Constable, Henry Hubbard; For Supervisor, A. S. Baker.
120 Years Ago (1887): The Sick. The neighbors, day by day grow stronger in the hope of Mrs. Simon Van
Patten’s recovery. Mrs. F. A. Baker, continues about the same, perhaps, with some more favorable symptoms
of improvement. Mrs. Liv. Frantz is low yet, but her friends are not without hope, for her. Mr. R. F. Woodbury
rides out and gives considerable assurance of amend. Mrs. Finn has a very bad hand and arm yet, but her
symptoms appear favorable. Mrs. Noel, who took a cold while visiting at Whitewater last week, but is nearly well
now.
110 Years Ago (1897): Born: To Mr. and Mrs. J. Christman, Thursday, Feb. 25, 1897, a girl. Born: To Mr.
and Mrs. Fred Fellows, Friday, Feb. 26, 1897, a boy. Born: To Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Barrett, Sunday, Feb.
28, 1897, a girl. Born: To Mr. and Mrs. A. W. Cary, Monday, March 1, 1897, a girl. Born: to Mr. and Mrs. R. M.
Richmond, Monday, March 1, 1897, a girl.
100 Years Ago (1907): The names of the following pupils appear on the High School roll of honor for January:
Seniors—Fern Ball, June Baker, Beulah Day, Cleve Gillman; Juniors—Ethel Smith, Inez Murray, Spencer
Pullen; Sophomores—Kathleen Calkins, Marian Purinton, Josephine Knudtson, Josie Hadley, Hazel Keylock.
90 Years Ago (1917): Having decided to move north, Robert Hubbard will sell at public auction on the place
known as the Watt Hubbard farm, situated two and one-half miles northwest of Evansville and five and one half
miles southeast of Brooklyn, on the Brooklyn road, on Thursday, March 15, beginning at ten o’clock sharp, the
following property: six head of horses, nine head of cattle, six Poland China brook sows, machinery, grain, etc.
Free lunch will be served at noon. In case of storm, sale will be held under cover. Col. Dan Finnane,
auctioneer; Leo Campbell, clerk.
80 Years Ago (1927): Grade School News, Second Grade Notes: The following people will receive stars for
good hand-writing: Morris Hanson, Bessie Trunkhill, Jane Groh, Rosemary Finnane, Kenneth Hatlevig, Lyman
Worthing, David Baird, George Kelly, Thelma Kleinsmith and Margaret Dreher.
70 Years Ago (1937): The following senior committees have been chosen: Class History: Beth Schuster
(Chairman), Doris Collins, Robert Hubbard, Albert Gibbs. Class Prophecy: Mildred Funk (Chairman) Phillip
Croak, Rosemary Finnane, Lola Shaw. Class Will: Jane Groh (Chairman), Bernadine Kleinsmith, Sylvia Clark,
Howard Brunsell. Invitations: Don Montgomery, Gwendolyn Bowen, Beulah Gransee, Omar Haakenson.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mrs. Clara Reese and daughter Delores, are in Mercy hospital recovering from serious
and painful injuries they suffered last Saturday when the Reese car was involved in a collision with a machine
driven by Chris Farberg, Jr., route 1 Janesville. The accident happened about four miles east of Evansville on
the highway. Mrs. Reese and daughter were taken to the hospital in an ambulance after the collision. Farberg
was shaken up and bruised but not seriously hurt. Mrs. Reese is the teacher in the Franklin school and
Delores is a junior in the local high school.
50 Years Ago (1957): Ruth Robinson and Paul Brown received “A” ratings in the Wisconsin high schools’
regional forensic contest at Oregon Tuesday, according to Mrs. Barbara Voight, Evansville high school speech
instructor. Ruth Robinson’s talk was on “The Girl Who Made Herself Over,” and Paul Brown’s title was
“Consider With Me.” Both students will be eligible to compete in the district forensic contest at Ft. Atkinson.
Other Evansville students who competed with speakers from Milton and Oregon high schools were Bernice
Dunbar, “Late for a Date”; Betty Dammen, “A Modern Mrs. Malaprop”; Ken Barnard, “The Next Four Minutes”;
and Dick Meyers, “European Line of Defense.”
60 Years Ago (1967): Mr. and Mrs. Charles Gilbert, Evansville, will observe their 40th wedding anniversary
Sunday, Mar. 5, at which time they will be honored by their children at an open house starting at 2 p.m. in the
Cooksville Community Center. Charles Gilbert and Eva Burhans were married Mar. 1, 1917 and since their
marriage they have resided in rural Evansville and Cooksville. He is a member of the Waucoma Masonic
Lodge at Cooksville and both are members and officers of the Evansville Eastern Star. They are also members
of the Methodist Church. Mr. Gilbert was a master of the Waucoma lodge in 1966. He was formerly a farmer
and is currently operating a repair shop in Cooksville. The Gilberts have five daughters, Mrs. Arnold Alme,
Dayton; Mrs. Lloyd Luek, Janesville and Mrs. Frank Davis, Mrs. Phil Woodworth and Mrs. John Hermanson,
Evansville. They also have 17 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
30 Years Ago (1977): The Evansville Jaycees held their Community Awards Banquet Thursday evening,
honoring Jan Berezowitz and Nancy Kress, kindergarten teachers, honored as Outstanding Young Educators;
Paul George, Outstanding Young Individual; Robert Antes, Distinguished Service Award; and Dave and Mary
Viney, Outstanding Young Farm Couple..
20 Years Ago (1987): Expanding to the west, a new home is being constructed on Croft Rd. just west of Fifth
Street. Construction by Robert Schaefges, will be for the Brad Goodspeed home. New home construction in
Evansville has been at a low ebb for some time, and the sight of new construction is most welcome.
10 years ago (1997): The newly constructed Dean/St. Mary’s Medical Clinic in Evansville, located on E. Main
Street, is an added attraction for Evansville. It is now fully equipped and furnished and running smoothly. The
$600,000 project, offers 5500 square feet, twice as large as the older facility on W. Church Street. Excellent
parking is provided, including handicap facilities. Full services are offered in cheerful, pleasant surroundings.
Work which was begun in early fall was completed in January in very good time. The new location can
comfortably accommodate three providers. Presently, Dr. Stephen Lewis and Dr. Janet Deegan are serving
the community, responding to needs.
In Review
Second Week of March 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): It will be born in mind, by our village readers, that a meeting of the qualified electors
residing on Section 27, and the east half of Sect. 28, also the west half of the west half of Sect. 26, including
what is now termed the “Village of Evansville,” are to meet at Swager’s Hall on Tuesday next at 1 o’clock, p.m.
to then and there cast their ballots for or against a charter, granting us certain municipal rights and privileges.
The instrument has been for some time before the citizens in its printed form, and we presume all have given it
a critical examination. We do not understand that it in any manner deprives or excludes us of town
government, but endows us with certain municipal privileges. The officers to be elected on that day are first,
three judges of election, and one clerk, after which a president, four trustees, one treasurer, and one clerk are
to be elected by ballot. Each subsequent election is to be held on the first Tuesday of March each year.
130 Years Ago (1877): Messrs. Snashall & Mygatt are getting a corner on steel beam plows. They are
sending circulars all over the country, offering them at $15.50.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. Delos Williams who has been in Rock county jail for more than a year, was taken
home to his father’s on bail, in an advanced stage of consumption. Dr. Smith pronounced his condition
hopeless Tuesday, and for several days he has failed to recognize anyone. Mr. Williams died at 7:30 o’clock
Tuesday night, and the funeral was held at his father’s house Thursday afternoon, Rev. F. L. Wharton
presiding.
110 Years Ago (1897): John Babcock, son of Mr. and Mrs. Gard Babcock, of Magnolia, died at his home
Saturday, March 6, 1897, of pneumonia and typhoid fever, aged 18 years. Funeral was held at the home
Monday afternoon.
100 Years Ago (1907): Sunday last, the Rev. Rolvix Harlan tendered his resignation as pastor of the First
Baptist church of this city, same to take effect April 1. Mr. Harlan came to this city some three and one-half
years ago fresh from the University of Chicago, and during his residence here has made many warm friends
both in and out of his church society. His recent publication issues from the Review job rooms, taking for his
theme “John Alexander Dowie and the Christian Catholic Apostolic Church of Zion,” has created considerable
comment on account of the forcible manner in which he handled the question. He goes to Dixon, Ill., where a
larger field of usefulness awaits him, and where we expect Evansville people will occasionally hear from him.
90 Years Ago (1917): Mayor Byron Campbell recently added a few articles to his interesting collection of
curios—namely, a road runner from California, very rare; a magpie from Colorado; a sword and scabbard,
carried by Capt. John Logan in the rebel army; a large ox horn, used by Germans for drinking beer; and an old
cast iron lamp, with three wick burners for oil, weighing four pounds.
80 Years Ago (1927): Former Justice Burr W. Jones, attorney, teacher, text book writer, and patriarch of the
Dane County Bar Association, whom Evansville and the town of Union are proud to claim as a native product, is
celebrating his 81st birthday today in San Antonio, Texas, where he is spending the winter. Mr. Jones is the
oldest member of the Dane County Bar Association. When he was 74 years of age he was appointed to the
Wisconsin Supreme Court by Gov. E. L. Phillipp. He was reelected to the office in 1922 and in spite of his
advanced years was an active and efficient judge. Judge Jones has been a teacher at the Wisconsin Law
School for 30 years before he was appointed to the Supreme Court in Madison.
70 Years Ago (1937): Miss Marie Josephine Tronnes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Austin Tronnes, Rutland
township, became the bride of Raymond W. Heritage, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Heritage, town of Union,
at a ceremony performed at 9 p.m. last Thursday in the M. L. Paulson residence at 12 North Second Street,
with Mr. Paulson, justice of the peace, officiating. The attendants were John Heritage, brother of the groom
and Miss Dorcas Rewey, high school home economics teacher. The bride was graduated from the local high
school last June. The newly weds are making their home north of Evansville in Union township.
60 Years Ago (1947): Announcement. Beginning Monday, March 17, I will be at my welding shop full time.
Welding service, both acetylene and arc welding of all materials including white or due-case metals. Shop is
located next to Libby warehouse on Franklin street. Work guaranteed. Prompt & Efficient Service. Aaron
Cornwell.
50 Years Ago (1957): The Evansville City Council voted to abolish the three-man commission which has been
operating the water and light department, and approved plans for the swimming pool to be built this summer at
a special Council meeting Wednesday, March 6. Council members felt that inasmuch as the utility commission
was required to bring most matters to the Council for approval, they might as well handle the utility affairs
directly as have them come up from the commission. Since the resignation of George Mattakat last month from
the commission there has been only one citizen member, Ben Green, on the commission, with the second
commissioner being Councilman Norman Bone. Plans for the swimming pool drawn by engineer John Mielke,
Waukesha, were approved at the meeting.
60 Years Ago (1967): Plans for a new $50,000 structure to house the Evansville Fire Department is presently
under consideration by the City Council’s finance committee. The plan, prepared by Almarco Engineering,
Madison, call for a 70 x 80 foot building to provide space for six trucks, the city ambulance and a meeting room
for the city’s 24 volunteer firemen. A small kitchen, rest room and shower facilities are also included. The
building would be located behind the present City Hall and face Church Street.
30 Years Ago (1977): Howard Cufaude has been named Business Manager for the Evansville Community
School District. Mr. Cufaude takes over on March 15. His contract runs from March 15 of this year through
June 30, of 1978, for which time he will receive $15,500. He has been hired on an annual salary of $12,000.
Of the 15 applications received, the choice was narrowed to six who were personally interviewed. Mr. Wood,
who is retiring, states he has enjoyed the job and Mr. Cufaude is looking forward to working with Mr. Wood and
the people of the community..
20 Years Ago (1987): Evansville FFA members gained top seed placing by winning at the Ft. Atkinson Dairy
Cattle Sectional contest this past Saturday. Team members Rich Templeton, Kelly Zweifel, John Abey and Don
Templeton, walked away with team honors edging teams from Whitewater, Milton, Monroe and Lake Mills. Their
winning record in dairy cattle judging during the past year has carried them to the state tournament to be held
at the UW-Madison site, April 24. The Evansville FFA members gained a “Gold” rating with their finish and will
now be practicing for state competition. The community and school can be very proud of the members for an
excellent job of representation throughout the year in contests and activities.
10 years ago (1997): The Evansville High School Music Department will be boarding three motorcoaches to
begin their 25 ½ hour journey to America’s favorite make-believe land: DisneyWorld. The trip will begin
Saturday March 22 and will come to a close Thursday March 27. The six day event will be jammed-packed for
these 95 talented musicians. The concert band and choir will perform at the Tomorrowland stage. The two
music groups will also be attending a music workshop where they will each have a chance to work with some of
the best conductors Disney has to offer.
In Review
Third Week of March 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Seminary Roll of Honor. The Roll of Honor for the Winter Term of the Evansville
Seminary, as is herewith presented, comprises all the students whose standing is seven or higher, and whose
demerits are not over three. Gentlemen: Richard Adee, B. B. Boynton, Dwight R. Crowell, James Carville,
Geroge E. Champney, J. Gillies, Warren Howard, W. H. Hauser, Adam Luchsinger, C. D. Manning, George F.
Martin, T. Marty, Geo. H. Brodrick, Wm. T. Nett, Seth H. Remington, G. R. Mitchell, Theo’d P. Robinson, Fred H.
Spencer, Frank H. Winston, John M. Tuller, Hiram J. Tourlett, Henry A. Talcott, Willie Wheeler. Ladies: Anna
G. Burdick, Maggie Bennett, Maggie H. Clark, M. Celia Clark, Dora M. Campbell, Aurora Dibble, M. M. Davis,
Elvira Gilman, M. A. Hoisington, Julia A. Hersey, L. Hayward, E. F. Houser, C. E. Mc Mullen, M. J. Porter, Ellen
Starkweather, R. M. Pike, M. Amelia Straw, M. E. Slawson, C. J. West, E. M. Warren, E. S. Waldron.
130 Years Ago (1877): The Masonic Lodge has a project on foot that looks feasible for the construction of a
hall. Mr. Byron Campbell proposes to erect a building for a market and other purposes, connected with his
business, and offers the Masonic Lodge an opportunity to build and occupy a hall of the second story. The
size of the building will be 24 x 70 feet. The Lodge met Monday night and elected a board of trustees, and has
authorized a committee to close the bargain with Mr. Campbell. The hall, irrespective of the 1st story, will cost
somewhere between $2,000 and $3,000. If the plans are carried out, it will, be far, be the best and most
complete fire-proof building in town. [Note: The Campbell meat market and the Masonic Lodge were located at
11 East Main. The Masonic emblem can still be seen on the second story of the building.]
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. H. W. Ingraham, of Medicine Lodge, Kansas, whose father lives in the town of
Union, and who has been visiting the old home for some weeks, returned to Kansas, Monday morning. He took
with him his daughter, who has made it her home with her grand parents since the death of her mother, some
years ago.
110 Years Ago (1897): The Evansville Laundry, Baker Block, is now prepared to do all kinds of laundry work
and will spare no efforts to give the people of Evansville a grade of work that will keep their patronage at
home. Work is called for and delivered free. B. T. Bryan, Prop.
100 Years Ago (1907): Street Commissioner Hamilton commenced his annual spring work upon the streets in
this city, Monday last. His first object lesson was in unloading many loads of coarse sand, gravel, etc., upon
Church street between First and Second streets. If we remember rightly, about two years ago many loads of
good dirt were taken away from the same place. How time does change the location of soil.
90 Years Ago (1917): Starting on Monday, April 2, Evansville merchants will conduct a cooperative delivery
system. All the stores that have been operating deliveries, except Charles Barnum’s meat market and the
Grange, have signed contracts with George Anderson, whereby he will furnish two delivery trucks, making six
deliveries to all parts of the city every day. Owing to the fact that the Grange store had previously made
arrangements for its deliveries, it could not enter into the arrangement. The contracts cover one year. Mr.
Anderson will be assisted by his son, Glenn. The merchants are confident that their customers will find the new
system a great improvement over the present way of handling deliveries. Deliveries will be made every
morning at 8:30, 9:30, and 11:30 and in the afternoon at 2:30, 4:00 and 5:00. Edgerton, Janesville, Richland
Center and other Wisconsin cities have found the system a good one.
80 Years Ago (1927): The town of Union town caucus was held March 19, at which time the following
candidates were nominated: Chairman, Potter Porter. Supervisors, George Emery and Wade Woodworth.
Clerk, H. S. Spooner. Treasurer, Oscar Brunsell. Assessor, Ben Disch and Charles Weary. Justices, Walter
Flood and W. E. Reese. Constables, Arthur Jones and M. F. Moore.
70 Years Ago (1937): At a special meeting of the board of directors, the newly organized Leota Hotel
Corporation completed arrangements to purchase the Hotel Central in the heart of Evansville’s business district
from H. F. Brunsell who bought the property two years ago. Though no definite plans have been announced,
the corporation is planning an extensive renovation and remodeling program for the reopening of the hotel
which has been closed for some time. Directors for the corporation are Dr. J. W. Ames, president; E. H. Libby,
vice president; Phil D. Pearsall, secretary; A. M Winn, treasurer; and R. L. Collins, H. H. Loomis, L. L.
Thompson and Charles Maloy. [Note: The Central House was located at the northwest corner of Main and
Madison streets.]60 Years Ago (1947): Joe’s restaurant moved this week from its location in the Boreva
building on East Main Street to the Combs building on North Madison Street. The rooms which have been used
as a dwelling the past few years, have been completely remodeled and new restaurant equipment has been
added. Evansville citizens are invited to visit the place of business. [Joe’s restaurant was located at 14 North
Madison.]
50 Years Ago (1957): Evansville high school seniors Dick Meyers and Arlyn George were elected honorary co-
captains of the 1956-57 Blue Devil basketball squad by their teammates, according to coach Bernie Golz.
Senior guard Harry Becher, was elected “most valuable player” of the season. All three were awarded letters.
Other local cagers who earned letters for their efforts during the season just ended include: Jack Thornton,
senior, forward; Karl Romstad, junior, forward; Louis Harnack, junior, forward; Dick Moore, sophomore, center;
Chuck Peterson, sophomore, guard; and Tom Helgesen, team manager.
60 Years Ago (1967): Joshua Crowell has accepted a call to become pastor of the UCC Congregational
Church here. He succeeds the Rev. Alan Kromholz who resigned to become the pastor of a Watertown
church. Crowell will receive his degree from Andover Newton Theological Seminary, Newton Center, Mass., in
May and plans to assume his duties here about July 1. His wife, Betty Ann, also will receive her master’s
degree in religious education in May. Crowell was guest speaker in the church Sunday after being welcomed at
a reception Saturday night in the fireside room of the church.
30 Years Ago (1977): Officers and board members were elected at the annual meeting of the Evansville Golf
Association. Randy Feldt was elected president. Edd McCaffrey is vice-president. Harlan Steindl was chosen
treasurer and Gary Grossman is the organization’s secretary. Board members include Roger Thompson, Paul
Klitzman, Lois Holzem, Theo Rasmussen and Norman Tomlin..
20 Years Ago (1987): Dobbs’ Duds and Dr. Prudhon’s Optometric are sporting brand new complementary
awnings, a part of their plan for revitalization. R. and B Tarps of Cambridge installed an olive green and brown
strip at Dobbs’ Duds and a solid olive green one at Dr. Prudhon’s. A bright, sunny logo now helps define the
Union Coop. The new design, now obvious on their trucks, caps, bills, etc. serves their Belleville and Albany
facilities, as well as Evansville. The design for the new logo was created by Evansville’s Kevin Schelley,
Fertilizer and Agronomist Manager at the local facility.
10 years ago (1997): Metal Culverts, Inc., a Missouri company with additional operations in Illinois, Texas and
Florida, will be starting business in Commerce Park in the city’s industrial park. The company produces and
distributes metal culverts for use in water drainage projects and intends to establish a foothold in Wisconsin.
The company plans to locate in Evansville permanently. Initially the company plans to employ 10-15 people,
most of which will be hired locally.
In Review
Fourth Week of March 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): We are informed by Dr. Smith, the attending surgeon, that B. S. Hoxie, Esq. of
Cooksville, and Mr. Cyrus Bates, of Porter, received severe injuries on Monday last, by falling from a staging
upon which they were at work building a school house. The board which formed their stage contained a knot
and on their attempting to pass each other the board broke, precipitating them both to the ground where they
lay in a helpless condition until some accidental assistance reached them and they were helped home. Mr.
Bates sustained a fracture of several ribs, and Mr. Hoxie received a severe injury to the knee. On the same
day, Mr. Ezra Mann, of Porter, fell from a load of hay and fractured his shoulder.
130 Years Ago (1877): A Pioneer Gone. In the last number of the Review we mentioned, briefly, the death of
our esteemed townsman, and old settler, David Johnson. Mr. Johnson settled in this town in the year 1840 and
it has been his residence ever since. Father Johnson, has for the past eight years, been very feebled but
retained full vigor of mind until within a few hours of his death. His funeral, was before noticed, took place in
the Baptist church in Union village, and was attended by a large number of old settlers and friends. His wife
survives him, having married in 1817. Mother Johnson will be lonely now, being separated from her life-long
companion, with whom she has braved the ills of life as well as tasted its joys, for over sixty years, but she views
her bereavement from a Christian stand point, and looks to a kind Savior for protection and support. Mr.
Johnson’s last words were: “O glorious hope of immortality and eternal life.” He died as he lived: a Christian.
Peace be to his memory.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mrs. Barnum is raising her house on the East side; she will have it resilled, moved back
and West six feet, and will put up a large addition on to the East side. Mr. Sale is doing the moving.
110 Years Ago (1897): The school in the White Star district will close next Friday, April 2, with the following
graduates: Miss Aleria Erdahl, Miss Maude Pierce, Miss Myrta Howard, Miss Lizzie Collins, John and Jerome
Collins. This term will complete the twelfth successive term with Miss Pantell as teacher.
100 Years Ago (1907): The Seminary had quite a scare Saturday morning when the roof of the dormitory
caught fire from a burning chimney. The high wind was fortunately in the southwest, otherwise the building
could hardly have been saved. We wish to extend our hearty thanks to those of the Evansville Fire Company
who responded so quickly to our call for help.
90 Years Ago (1917): On March 24, 1892, Frank F. Asmus was united in marriage with Miss Minnie Hess, by
the Rev. J. Kahl. For twenty-five years they have prospered, building a beautiful home on Main Street, and
besides they are the owner of farm property. On last Saturday a large number of friends and relatives
gathered at their home and celebrated their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary, enjoying a bountiful dinner. After
the dinner Mr. and Mrs. Asmus were seated in the front room and with Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kutzke, who were
present at the wedding twenty-five years ago, seated next to the happy couple, the Rev. G. E. Zellmer
conducted a short religious service. Everybody enjoyed a good time and upon departing wished Mr. and Mrs.
Asmus many more happy years of happy married life.
80 Years Ago (1927): Tourist Park Notes: The Park Committee have decided to close the drives at 10 p.m.
The reason for this is the large number of out of town autos coming into the park at all times of the night. The
Tourist Camp entrance will be kept open but there will be a man on duty all night at the camp. Mr. and Mrs.
Matt Ellis and son, Fay, will again have charge of the concessions at the park. We are expecting the largest
attendance at the park and camp this season in its history. By the generosity of some of our citizens we have
now 22 tables or a seating capacity of about 170 persons. What we are lacking now is lawn seats. Will you
donate and have your name on the back. You will be doing yourself a favor by having your ashes hauled to
the park. As soon as the weather permits the park will be raked and put in order, and the tennis court will also
be put in shape for use. Fred Wilder, Custodian.
70 Years Ago (1937): After nearly a month of detour routings, traffic conditions on U. S. Highway 14 between
Evansville and Janesville were restored last Thursday when the road barriers, in place since the heavy storms
of Feb. 21 were removed and county snow plows completed clearing the ice from the pavement near Leyden.
The water at Leyden went down enough to permit highway crews to work there the fore part of last week but
eight inches of water continued to cover the ice at that time. During the week, however, the water level
dropped below the pavement elevation and a heavy snow plow broke up the coating of ice and pushed it
aside. At one time nearly four feet of water and ice covered the road at this point completely paralyzing traffic.
As a result for more than three weeks motorists traveling from Evansville to Janesville were either routed
around by Orfordville or from Leyden via Center. Highway 59 at Union has also been reopened but several
inches of water still cover an area between Union and Cooksville which was completely flooded at one time.
60 Years Ago (1947): Donald Thompson was elected temporary chairman of the local Chamber of Commerce
which was organized Friday night in the city hall. He appointed a committee to set a permanent date for future
meetings. Committee members were Prentice Eager, Donald Scott, Jack Heffel, William H. Bewick, Donald
Gallagher, Walter Carlson and Wallace Everill.
50 Years Ago (1957): The primary reason for Monday night’s special council meeting was to open bids on
utility poles for which the city Water and Light Department advertised. The council unanimously agreed to
accept the bid of the Laufenberg Lumber company of $2,337.90 for 73 utility poles of southern yellow pine.
Bids were received on southern yellow pine, classes four and five and western red cedar, classes four and
five. Harold Tait, superintendent of the Water and Light department, was present to advice the council about
the merits and demerits of the various types of poles. Western red cedar, the council decided, was too much
more expensive than southern yellow pine, even though it was lighter and somewhat easier to handle and
maintain. Discussion was then limited to yellow pine. Another factor which entered into the selection of the
Laufenberg bid was the fact that the firm promised immediate delivery. The only other bid for select number
four yellow pine poles was entered by the Joslyn company and totaled $2556. The poles will be used in the
relocation of city utility lines along rear property lines, rather than on the street where trees create severe
maintenance problems. The beautifying effect to the city was also considered in the decision to relocate the
lines in back yards.
60 Years Ago (1967): The Evansville Fire Department at their meeting Monday March 20, held election of
officers for the coming year. The following were elected officers for the coming year. Assistant chief Lawrence
Skoien; Captain Leslie Golz; Lieutenant Chas. Nordeng; Secretary Robert Olsen; Treasurer Wm. Erbs; Steward
Robert Gallman; Assistant Steward Kenneth Gallman. Fire Chief, Chet Jorgenson appointed Wm. Morrison,
Edd McCaffery and Wm. Erbs as an investigation committee for prospective new members. Robert Olsen was
retained as publicity chairman. Rolland Propst was taken into the department as a new member. With the new
member, the department is at full operational strength with 24 men. At the April meeting, the department will
make a tour of the Pruden Co. to observe their fire extinguishing equipment.
30 Years Ago (1977): Evansville city and area senior citizens have a new place to go for a cup of coffee, a
game of cards, or just plain conversation; the Senior Citizen’s Drop-In Center at 16 E. Main in Evansville is now
open. The center, funded with help of the Rock County Commission on Aging, is in the building which most
recently housed Reible’s Bakery in downtown Evansville. In the words of Evansville Senior Citizen Association
president Betty Guernsey, “It’s a place for people to come, to get together, to enjoy themselves a little bit.” At
present the facilities include three rooms, tables, chairs, and a coffee pot with cups. In the near future a
kitchen range and refrigerator will be installed to allow occasional lunches and pot luck dinners. The hours are
from 9 to 12 noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
20 Years Ago (1987): Blue Cross & Blue Shield United of Wisconsin will open a new regional service center in
Evansville later this year, company officials have announced. Tom Hefty, president, recently signed a three-
year agreement to lease 6,600 square feet of office space in The Grange Mall in downtown Evansville from
Robert Peterson and Robert Helgesen, partners in the R. R. J. Partnership and owners of the mall. The Center
scheduled to open sometime around June 15 will be the second Blue Cross & Blue Shield regional facility
located outside Milwaukee. Last year, the insurer opened a center in Fond du Lac. They also have seven
regional marketing offices located throughout the state.
10 years ago (1997): The City Hall survey results have been tabulated and are bound to give city officials
some very interesting food for thought. 399 survey responses, about 27% of the 1,500 mailed to citizens of
Evansville, were received by the March 17, deadline. By the slimmest of margins, opponents of maintaining the
current city hall with required ADA changes prevailed by a tally of 179 to 178, with an additional 31 citizens
declaring neutrality and 11 expressing no choice. Opponents commented frequently about their concern for
“wasting money on an old building which lacks office efficiencies.” Many also commented about a perceived
lack of parking. Opponents often mentioned significant support for moving city hall offices into the soon to be
vacated Piggly Wiggly store on South Madison Street. Many thought that a move of that nature would allow for
a more efficient and cost-effective consolidation of city administrative offices with those of the Water and Light
Department.
IN REVIEW
APRIL 2007
In Review
First Week of April 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Mr. I. M. Bennett started for New York to make his purchases for the Spring trade. Mr.
Sheafe also left for Boston where he will purchase another stock of ready made clothing. A miniature winter
greeted us last Monday morning, but the warm sun made a quick run of the snow flakes when he got out and
began to look around. Mrs. Allen S. Baker left her home yesterday morning on a visit to friends at Annapolis,
Md. The Village School begins Monday.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. B. S. Hoxie of Cooksville, is manufacturing a good article of churn, and which he
has christened “The Farmer’s churn. It can be seen at the Grange Store.
120 Years Ago (1887): We understand it is the intention for women, as per section of the law below, to present
themselves at the polls and offer their votes for all town officers that in any manner related to common schools,
next Tuesday, under the school suffrage law enacted in 1884. The Law. Section 1. Every woman who is a
citizen of this state of the age of twenty-one years or upwards, except paupers, persons under guardianship,
and persons otherwise excluded by Sec. 2, Act 3, of the Constitution of Wisconsin, who has resided within the
state one year and in the election district where she offers to vote ten days next preceding any election
pertaining to school matters shall have a right to vote at such election.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. Almeron Eager is soon to erect a handsome white brick building upon the site
occupied by J. T. Toynton before the fire. It is to be hoped that other property owners will follow the good
example and that the unsightly ruins will so give place to modern buildings. The new buildings now owned by
Dr. Smith, Frank Devendorf and B. Campbell are certainly great ornaments to the city. [Note: Mr. Eager’s
building was located at 11 and 13 West Main Streets; Dr. Smith at 5 West Main; Frank Devendorf at 7 West
Main and Byron Campbell at 9 West Main.]
100 Years Ago (1907): Mr. Pehler of Milwaukee, the Y. M. C. A. organizer, has been in our city this week
perfecting plans for the new Y.M.C.A. rooms, the necessary funds being raised. The upper floor of the old
Grange store is being fitted with baths, gymnasium, etc., and when completed will be of great convenience and
a great help to our young men and visitors. [Note the old Grange store was at 19 East Main Street.]
90 Years Ago (1917): At Tuesday’s election, Magnolia elected the following officers: Chairman, Dan Drew;
Supervisors, B. A. Sisson and Robert Spencer; Town Clerk, W. D. Dougherty; treasurer, Robert Fraser;
Assessor, W. B. Andrew; Justices of the Peace, William Ahara, Gaylord Butcher and Grant Howard; Constables,
Henry Horan, George Bahr and Ernest Post.
80 Years Ago (1927): Every seat in the hall and gallery was packed to see the Junior Class present the
annual class play, entitled “Grumpy”. In the cast of characters there were twelve players. Grumpy was acted
by Wilson Brown, in a manner which would have done credit to a much and more experienced actor. The class
and their instructors are to be congratulated in the able manner with which they carried over the play. The
following took part in the play: Elizabeth Fellows, Pauline Munns, Maurice Woodworth, Horace Reynolds,
Martelle Griffeth, Dudley Slauson, Wilson Brown, Olav Ellis, William Wood, Donald Elert, Herbert Miller. The
executive staff which had charge of the affair, comprised of: Veryl Courtier, William Hanson, Ruth Guilfoyle,
Ellena Devlin, Frank Wood, Howard Munns, Raymond Miller, Dorothy Durner, Miss Magdanz, and Miss Scott.
70 Years Ago (1937): More than three million dollars, $3,262,525 to be exact, has been distributed to
stockholders of the Baker Manufacturing company here during the past 37 years, according to announcements
mailed with the distribution of the first quarterly dividend checks. The common stockholders received
$2,907,186, with the balance going to preferred shareholders who invested the original capital to establish the
company in 1873. The large earnings of the firm have been made possible by the employees themselves who,
because of the profit sharing system, having taken a personal interest in the company and its products.
Quoting the firm’s announcement, “The fundamental idea of profit sharing was to make the corporation owned
by its employees, not by taking something from the original stockholders for the employees, but to give the
employees a chance to save material and time and own what they saved with something they could fall back on
in case of emergency or old age.”
60 Years Ago (1947): Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Reese, Evansville announce the approaching marriage of their
daughter, Ruth Dorothy, to Frederick Macart, son of Mrs. Marjorie Macart, also of Evansville. The marriage will
take place in the near future.
50 Years Ago (1957): Evansville seventh and eighth grade basketball team was defeated by Brodhead in the
championship of the Janesville YMCA tournament last Saturday by a score of 21 to 20. Local boys who
participated at Brodhead were Randy Decker, Scott Sperry, Dick Erpenbach, Jerry Spencer, Dave Powers,
Tom Cain, Jim Ganoung and Don Thornton. Forward Randy Decker was the leading scorer of the tourney with
42 points in three games. The tournament climaxed a successful year for coach Prchal’s “Junior Blues.” The
team improved steadily as the season progressed and ended with ten wins and four losses.
60 Years Ago (1967): Preparations are being made for the erection of a new supermarket on Liberty Street in
the city. The structure will be a Pruden pre-engineered metal building sold by Helgesen Pruden Sales,
Janesville, Robert Helgesen. The building will be 60’ by 120’ x 12’ truss beam structural system, olive green
with color accents. [Note: this building is at the southeast corner of Liberty and Madison Street and is currently
the location of the Care Closet.]
30 Years Ago (1977): The Ecumenical Choir concert was held last Sunday evening at St. Paul’s Catholic
Church. Soloists were Ruth Olson, Marsha Dobbs, Sharon Miller, Larry Olson, Lee Ringhand, John Patterson
and Rev. I. Dean Jordan. Julie Wollinger, LaVonne Winter, Jean Guggisberg, presented a trumpet rendition of
“Crown Him With Many Crowns.” Dr. Raymond E. Light was the guest director. Mrs. George Knuckles was the
accompanist. Will Sumner, Sr. and daughter, Miss Lucy were the violinists for one rendition..
20 Years Ago (1987): Election Day is coming up next week; Tuesday, April 7. Three school board seats are
open and to be filled. There were no candidates filing before the January deadline. School board candidates
are all declared write-ins as follows: Incumbent Greg Whitmore, Lyle Trow, Denise Cole, Carol Prudhon,
Richard Hamacher and Thomas Madsen. Dale Bryant, who had formerly declared as a candidate has
withdrawn his name.
10 years ago (1997): April and Aaron Burkhalter recently competed in the “Dance Team Showdown” for
Country Western Dancing at Fort Wayne, Indiana and walked away with excellent placings. They scored high
enough in the preliminaries for the “top teenagers, ages 13-19, to qualify them among the top eight finalists. In
the final competition, April placed fourth and Aaron finished sixth.
In Review
Second Week of April 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Village Ordinance: The President and Trustees of the Village of Evansville do ordain
as follows: Every person who shall ride, drive, or lead any horse, mule, ox, cow, or other domestic animal on
any side walk in said Village, (except where necessary to cross the same,) or who shall willfully injure any of
said side walk in any other manner; or who shall willfully destroy or injury any of the ornamental trees on the
sides of any of the streets in said Village, shall forfeit and pay a penalty of five dollars, for each and every
offence. David L. Mills, Village Clerk
130 Years Ago (1877): The Spencer House changed hands. Mr. Ed. Fellows is proprietor; Col. Beebe ex.
The sale amounted to some $6,000, including all the running establishment. We are sorry to lose Col. Beebe
from that popular hostelry, but hope his place will be made good by Mr. Fellows. The Colonel has built up a
good patronage, and won hosts of friends among our people and the traveling public, and we bespeak the
same success to his successor. Our people—business men and others—ought to lend a helping hand and
show by an occasional word that a well-kept hotel adds immeasurable to the business of our place.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. Cassius C. Searles and Miss E. Blanche Helms were married at home, Evansville,
Wis., April ninth, A. D. 1887. Miss Helms was, for several years, a compositor in the Review office, and we
never knew a truer or more faithful lady than what she was. The marriage took place at her mother’s residence
on Main street, and was performed by Rev. A. D. Sanborn, of the Free Baptist church, witnessed by only a few
relatives and intimate friends of the parties. They made a short wedding trip to Janesville, to visit friends, and
then went at once to housekeeping on the “Searles” place, on the Cooksville road. Their many friends join the
Review in wishes for a pleasant and happy marital life, and no dreams of ‘caps or small caps” ever disturb their
anxious slumbers, nor visions of “italics” or “bold faces” haunt their dreams.
110 Years Ago (1897): Results of Election. Town of Union Board, Ira Jones, chairman, A. G. Franklin, W. R.
Patterson; Clerk, W. W. Gillies; Assessor, I. H. Brink; Treasurer, John Tullar; Justice, S. H. Frost; Constable,
Chris Jorgensen. Voted to buy road scraper.
100 Years Ago (1907): The old tenement house just west of the Congregational parsonage, has been moved
to Almeron street where it will be fitted up as a residence for Fred W. Hanson. This house is one of the old
landmarks in this city, but its place was needed by B. A. Meyers, who is to erect a modern house for himself this
season. [Note: Meyers and his brother owned the Meyers Lumberyard on East Main Street. B. A. Meyers built
the home 120 West Church Street.]
90 Years Ago (1917): Overcast skies and a biting north wind did not chill the ardor of about twelve hundred
men, women and children who participated in Evansville’s splendid loyalty parade on Saturday afternoon.
School children carrying flags, all local fraternal orders, fire department, city officials, commercial club, veterans
of the civil war—keeping step to patriotic music by the Evansville band and drum corps—and seventy-two
automobiles, bedecked with the stars and stripes, registered the people’s pledge of patriotism. Superintended
by Harry C. Hansen, chairman of the parade committee, and marshaled by F. W. Gillman, the loyalty parade
proved to be even a greater success than the roseate dreams of the committee anticipated. Malcolm G. Jeffris,
of Janesville, who was a candidate for the United States Senate concluded his forceful address by making an
appeal to the young men of Evansville to enlist under the stars and stripes before they are drafted, and urged
every man to give freely his service and wealth, if needed, during the crisis through which the country is
passing. The committee consisting of Harry C. Hansen, Rev. Golder Riley Lawrence, Dr. C. S. Cook and Rev.
Malcolm F. Miller, deserves much praise. A platoon may be formed here. If forty men are secured the
government will send an officer for drill practice.
80 Years Ago (1927): It is announced that this week that the Country Club, of this city, numbering seventy
members, has purchased seventy-seven acres of the Knapp estate, northwest of town and will at once fit it for
the use of the Golf Club. A golf architect has already been engaged to go over and lay out the grounds so that
the natural advantages of the property may be used to the best advantage for the game and also that the
scenic qualities of the location may be preserved and beautified. The golf bug has bitten so many people in
the smaller towns of recent years that they go long distances and pay for the use of the links in order to enjoy
the game. It is stated that all the golf associations at Janesville, Stoughton and Edgerton have been paying
propositions for the last year or so. The officers of the club are: President, Dr. Denison; Vice-president, R. M.
Richmond; Secretary-treasurer, Harley Smith.
70 Years Ago (1937): Miss Eleanora Andrews and her sister, Mrs. Marilla Buchwalter, after disposing of the
Buchwalter estate at Springfield, Ohio, where they had resided for over twenty years, returned to Evansville to
make their home, the house their father, John C. Andrews, of Argyle, bought of Jacob West, May 15, 1868, on
the corner of West Church and Third Streets. These ladies both grew to womanhood in Evansville and both
were honored by the citizens with the position of post-master. Miss Eleanora being first appointed by President
Cleveland, serving through his administration and that of his successor, Theodore Roosevelt. [Note: the
Andrews home was located at 262 West Church Street.]
60 Years Ago (1947): Extensive plans are being made by the members of the Janesville 192nd Tank company
and Tank Auxiliary for the unveiling and dedication of a monument next Sunday, in honor of the boys in the
division who lost their lives fighting on the death march and in Japanese prison camps. The activities will
include a parade at 2 p.m. from the court house park to the armory where the dedicatory ceremony will take
place. The monument, weighing approximately seven tons is a granite bronze plaque bearing the names of all
the boys in the company, formerly National Guards. It has a bronze tank on top of it which is an exact replica of
the tank used in the Philippine Islands. Blue prints were secured from the war department. In that Evansville
had six sons in the tank company, it is expected that a large group from here will attend the ceremonies. The
local group included LeRoy Scoville, Robert Hubbard, Kenneth Hatlevig, Herbert Durner, Edward Trebs and
Robert Kubly. The first three boys named lost their lives in prison camps; Herbert Durner now resides in
Janesville; Robert Kubly in Baraboo, and Edward Trebs, California. He was removed to Australia for
hospitalization prior to the fall of Bataan. All Evansville ex-service men are asked to be at the city hall at 1 p.m.
where they will be transported to Janesville to participate in the parade.
50 Years Ago (1957): The financial aspects of dredging Lake Leota were discussed at the City Council
meeting, but no final action was taken. It was reported that Rock County would contribute $2,000 toward the
project and that R. J. Antes would seek an additional $1,000 if the city contributes $2,000 toward the project.
Total cost will be about $5,000 according to the estimate of a contractor from Crystal Lake.
60 Years Ago (1967): The possible erection of a $300,000 nursing home in Evansville is being considered by
a Stoughton couple, Mayor Ida T. Conroy announced today. In making the announcement, Mrs. Conroy said
Mr. and Mrs. Duane Brickson of Stoughton have received tentative approval of a $250,000 FHA loan, but
before plans can proceed the government requires that some $40,000 be available in local financing. Mr. and
Mrs. Brickson are seeking local citizens who would be willing to furnish the $40,000 for the initial operating cost
of the home until it becomes self-sustaining. Mrs. Conroy said the couple indicated the facility would be in a
position to meeting its own expenses as soon as 25 beds are filled. Plans revealed by Mrs. Conroy after
working with the couple, call for a 150 bed accredited unit within the city limits. She pointed out that it would be
a fireproof building with a brick exterior and the possibility of its being a Pruden Products Co. steel structure is
also being considered.
30 Years Ago (1977): Kent Katzenmeyer, 27, has been named to replace resigned officer Jerry Mulholland on
Evansville’s police force. Katzenmeyer, a 1968 graduate of Evansville High School. He is an Emergency
Medical Technician serving with the ambulance crew and is taking courses in police science at Blackhawk
Tech. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roger Katzenmeyer..
20 Years Ago (1987): On Friday of last week, members of the Evansville Police Officers Assn. voted
unanimously to become union members, according to Sgt. John Whitmore. Four full time officers are eligible
for membership in Teamsters Local 579. Officers who have signed cards to join are Whitmore, Jed Sperry and
Art Phillips. Frank Warner has not yet signed. Police Chief Kent Katzenmeyer remains neutral in the situation
as part of management. When asked why they joined the Teamsters, John Whitmore said, “So that the
Teamsters can bargain for us. The city hired a professional negotiator. We felt it was time that we got some
professional representation.”
10 years ago (1997): Jason Moe and Kristin Rosa from Evansville were among the area students at UW-
Platteville who received Chancellor’s Honors. Rosa made the Dean’s List in the College of Business, Industry,
Life Science and Agriculture. Moe made the Dean’s List in the College of Engineering, Mathematics and
Sciences.
In Review
Third Week of April 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Village Ordinance To Prohibit the Keeping of Billiard Tables. The President and
Trustees of the Village of Evansville, do ordain as follows: Section 1. Every person who shall keep any room
as a place of public resort, and shall allow the playing of billiards in such room in said Village, shall forfeit and
pay a penalty of Ten Dollars for each and every day so kept open. 2. It shall be the duty of the Clerk to cause
the foregoing Ordinance to be published in the Evansville Citizen at its next issue. April 11, 1867. D. L. Mills,
Clerk.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Jake Allen’s family is in a sick and destitute condition—depending wholly upon the
charity of the public for aid. Himself and wife, and three children are helpless from an attack of scarlet fever.
120 Years Ago (1887): We never saw the Methodist church so well filled at a Sunday service as on Easter
morning, and seldom has a better sermon been uttered from the pulpit than on the occasion; the orchestra was
full of good music, and the congregation taking up the refrain, made the walls of that old sanctuary echo as it
seldom has done before. The day was calm and beautiful for a spring morning and every heart seemed to
respond to the melody of rhythm, and with the inspiration that fired the hearts of those who first beheld the form
of a risen Savior to bless mankind.
110 Years Ago (1897): The photo buttons Combs turns out are beauties. The fad of wearing a button with a
picture of yourself, or one of your family is becoming more and more popular, and you should be in line with the
rest. Photos of buildings, society emblems, pets, etc. placed on buttons in first-class style and at very little cost.
100 Years Ago (1907): Harvey Walton and Wm. Meggott were in Madison Thursday, consulting with the
architect on the Evansville public library building.
90 Years Ago (1917): A citizens’ meeting was held at the Commercial Club rooms on Friday evening to
appoint committees from the different wards to attend a meeting in Janesville at which the county will organize
to take steps to supply the machinery needed for common defense in the time of war. The second ward
committee is composed of the following gentlemen: M. L. Paulson, E. J. Ballard, John S. Baker, T. C.
Richardson and R. M. Richmond. C. J. Pearsall, A. C. Holmes and others will be sent from the first ward, the
committees from that ward and the third ward not having been appointed in full yet.
80 Years Ago (1927): Eighth Grade Notes: The boys have organized baseball teams. The teams are as
follows: Milo Hatlevig, Capt., Alvin Burtis, Harold Schuster, Alfred Brooks, Norman McCaffery, Leroy Geisler,
Herman Doering, Willard Propst, James Parkin, Keith Williams; Morris Moore, Capt., Maurice Lee, Leonard
Nelson, Everett Crawford, Boyd Crawford, Austin Jones, Gordon Jones, Ralph King, Mark Bruce, Harry
Roderick. We have received our Audubon pins and pamphlets. It is now time to go on bird hunts.
70 Years Ago (1937): Work was begun here Monday on a new building to be completed by a home appliance
store owned by H. H. Loomis, between the old Central house and the Buick garage on Main Street. The
structure is to be of brick and tile construction, and will be 20 feet by 36 feet, with a cement floor. The
foundation is already in and work on the walls is progressing rapidly. The contract was let to the Evansville
Construction company, Mr. Loomis said. The store will carry a full line of Norge products, including electric gas
range, electric ironers, washing machines, refrigerators, and gas stoves. Mr. Loomis said he expects to open
the store about May 10. [Note: this is the store at 8 West Main Street, the current location of the Evansville
Chamber of Commerce.]
60 Years Ago (1947): Piano Recital given by the pupils of Miss Lou A. Howland, assisted by Louia Gransee
and Gwenyth Chandler, Sunday afternoon at 2:30, April 20, 1947, Congregational Church. Participants: Diane
Crawford, Marian McCarthy, Elaine Easton, Rita Ann Bly, Joan Moldenhauer, John Bly, Theresa Gibbs, Eileen
Schwartzlow, Marilyn Klusmeyer, Delores Uselmann, June Heffel, Marianne McKenna, Olive Sprecher, Lois
Gransee, Eleanor Nimmo, Nancy Brunsell, Beverly Amidon, Bobby Blum, Joan Rosen, Marjorie Klofton, Judy
Romstad, Mary Blum, Betty Lou Lawry, and Shelley Thurman.
50 Years Ago (1957): April 16, 1957. Reorganization Meeting of the Evansville City Council. The meeting of
the new council was called to order at 8 p.m. by the Hon. R. B. Townsend, mayor, on the above date with the
following members present at roll call: Ralph Bennett, Norman W. Bone, L. R. Finn, C. Ira Larsen, Mrs. Charles
Conroy and Walter S. Spratler, Jr. All members present at roll call. Mayor Townsend welcomed Mrs. Conroy as
did the council members.
60 Years Ago (1967): Mayor Ida T. Conroy received special recognition for outstanding contribution to the
community at the Evansville High School All Sports Banquet last night. It was put on by the Sports Booster
Club, which is less than one year old. The banquet was one of this city’s major events of the year. A high
school senior, Dennis Reese, was awarded a medal from the University W Club as the best all-round athlete.
He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Merlin Reese, of 268 W. Main Street. Some 400 guests were on hand. More
than 50 athletes, managers, and cheerleaders, who have represented the school this year were honored. A
standing ovation was given Mrs. Conroy as she accepted a plaque for her mnay contributions to the growth
and development of Evansville youth.
30 Years Ago (1977): A mobile home at the corner of Tolles and Gibbs Lake roads east of Evansville was
totally destroyed by fire late Monday afternoon, but Evansville firemen were able to save a farm house on
Porter Road from total destruction west of Evansville, early Friday afternoon. Fire Chief Lawrence Skoien
described the trailer owned by the A. K. Investment Company, a calf-raising outfit, as completely demolished.
The cause of the fire which apparently started in the rear bedroom area, was unknown. On Porter Road, a
passing motorist alerted the Spence Porter family that their roof was on fire Friday. According to Skoien the
blaze was caused by faulty wiring in the attic, was completely destroyed along with one bedroom at the upper
west end of the house. The rest of the home sustained water damage. The Porters and their children were all
at home and were able to carry out several pieces of furniture. .
20 Years Ago (1987): Jon Ischi, aged 15, of Evansville Boy Scout Troop 514, was presented the Eagle Scout
award at a presentation ceremony held March 20, 1988 at the Evansville United Methodist Church. As his
Eagle Project, Jon chose to build bluebird nesting boxes. Jon is the son of Joe and Barb Ischi, Evansville.
10 years ago (1997): Evansville Basketball Team has three members who have been voted All Conference.
Wyatt Fellows, a junior, was the team’s leading scorer with 288 points, and leading defensive player. He was
third in assists and rebounds. He also set a new school field goal percentage record, and was selected as Co-
MVP. Joe Knudtson, a senior, was the team’s leading rebounder and second in scoring. He set new school 3-
point field goal records, 8 in one game and 58 for the season. He is also a member of the 500 points in a
career club and was Co-Captain. R. J. Laube, a senior, and Co-Captain, was the team leader in assists. Third
in scoring and defense, he was two rebounds short of a triple-double this year. Three members were included
in honorable mention: Ben Beal, Andy Tomlin, and Ryan Subera.
In Review
Fourth Week of April 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The Sewing Society of the M. E. Church meets every Friday afternoon, in one of the
rooms of the Church. Their energies at this time seem to be directed to the getting up of a Fair at no distant
day to aid in the completion of the church edifice. The ladies connected with that society are untiring in their
efforts to place the condition of their church in the foreground of spiritual and temporal success.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Harvey Prentice, wife and daughter, and Mr. Levi Leonard contemplate making a
visit to Dakota and Colorado, and will leave home sometime the first of May.
120 Years Ago (1887): The new fire bell was received and deposited with the rest of the paraphernalia of the
fire company Wednesday afternoon, John Reilly draying it from the depot. It will be mounted upon a tower not
yet constructed or located. It was rung to call the boys together Wednesday by Fireman Call poising it on an
iron bar. The tower will be built after the windmill tower style, 36 feet high and located on the South side of the
hall entrance. Booth & Walton are doing it.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mrs. Henry P. Aller, aged 34 years, died at her home in this city on Sunday morning,
April 18, 1897, at 7:15 o’clock, of consumption. The deceased’s maiden name was Florence Amanda Gillespie;
was born in Mercer Co., Pa., came to Wisconsin when nine years old, was married to Henry P. Aller on Dec. 24,
1879. She has been a long sufferer from the disease, having been an invalid for about 7 years. Funeral was
held Tuesday at 2 o’clock at the M. E. church.
100 Years Ago (1907): George Pullen and wife went to Chicago Tuesday for a two-day visit. While there they
noted the progress of work being done on the bronze statue of A. Eager, which is being made to occupy a
prominent position in the new library building.
90 Years Ago (1917): Rock County is represented by eighty-nine students at the University of Wisconsin this
year. Seventeen are from Evansville: In the College of Letters and Science: Ivan G. Fay, Miss Barbara E.
Pearsall, juniors; Miss Elizabeth Baker, senior. In the course in Commerce: Carroll G. Crane, freshman;
Wesley E. Langemak, Lyell P. Porter, Lloyd L. Wilder, Gordon D. Adams, sophomores. In the College of
Engineering: Loyal S. Baker, freshman; Everett Van Patten, senior (in the Mechanical Engineering course.) In
the College of Agriculture: Leon E. Patterson, sophomore. In the School of Music: Miss Leila E. Miller, senior.
In the Chemistry course: Max Phillipps, senior. In the Home Economics course: Miss Ethel Van Wart, junior.
80 Years Ago (1927): At the close of the services last Sunday morning the Rev. O. W. Smith, of the
Congregational Church, read his resignation to his congregation, asking that they release him June 15. His
resignation came as a surprise to many of his congregation who realizing what he had accomplished for the
church here and for the Boy Scouts and young people of this city hoped he could be prevailed upon to
continue his pastorate indefinitely. Both Mr. and Mrs. Smith have worked hard since they have been in
Evansville, in their earnest and unselfish manner, and they have well earned the long vacation they intend to
take in the mountains of the West this summer where he and Mrs. Smith are going to fulfill a lifetime desire and
put in the summer fishing and camping to their hearts’ content. At the close of the summer vacation he expects
to take charge as pastor at the Oconomowoc Congregational church.
70 Years Ago (1937): Stanley Sperry, Evansville boy who is playing second base for Oklahoma City in the
Texas league, is pictured in four photos in the May issue of the Cosmopolitan magazine, illustrating an article
by Paul Gallico, New York sports writer, according to Pete Finstad, former Evansville baseball coach now
educational advisor at Camp Dodge CCC camp. Sperry is shown sliding into home plate on his training trip to
Flordia last spring. He and Babe Ruth illustrate the article, entitled “Farewell to Sports.” Sperry rushed to
Houston, Texas Monday to rejoin the Oklahoma team which telegraphed him to hurry back into uniform. He
had been here last week to attend the funeral of his grandmother.
60 Years Ago (1947): Although the late spring , cold weather, and rain has hindered baseball practice Coach
Mel Erickson has been training a large group in the gymnasium and has hopes that the boys will develop into
outstanding players when they are able to get onto the diamond. Mr. Erickson said recently, in that there has
been no team here the past three years, of course there are no lettermen to count upon and the boys who
have come out for practice are young and inexperienced but are determined to do their best to become
baseball players. The pitchers on the team are Neil Moldenhauer, Andy Hollibush, Ed McCaffery, Roger
Valentine, and Ken Kuelz. In the catcher group are Jerry Easton, Marion Benton, Charles Fritscher, and
LaVerne Seeman; Fred Elmer and Bill McCarthy, short stop; Kenneth Devlin, Willis Martin, and Jim Kaltenborn,
second base; Jim Finnane, Matt Meredith, and Charles Romstad, first base; Roger Sell and Roger Wood, third
base, and Byrl Rowley, Marvin Hollibush, LaVerne Gallman, Ken Hatlen, Delmar Lunde, Malcolm Bollerud,
Elwood Heacox, and Edward Miller, outfield.
50 Years Ago (1957): Convictions on 47 charges of traffic law violations against motorists in justice court here
since Monday last week resulted in a total of $1,094 in fines. Twenty of the 47 convictions were for speeding
and 14 of these were brought by State Patrol officers and six by the Evansville police department, according to
justice of the peace, Paul Pullen. All arrests by city police were made with the aid of the electric timing device in
a 25 mile an hour zone. State Traffic Patrol speeding arrests were all made with the aid of a radar speed timer
at night, with the exception of two, who were clocked at 74 m.p.h. and 82 m.p.h. in a 65 m.p.h. speed limit zone,
during daylight hours.
60 Years Ago (1967): Richard Muenich, assistant basketball coach at Evansville High School the past three
years was named to succeed Rodney Truog as head basketball coach. Truog resigned in March without
indicating future plans. Muenich will teach high school English. He was on two Badger Conference title teams
under Coach Lee Mitchell at Monroe. Samuel Mills was named to succeed Muenich as assistant cage coach
and has been an elementary physical education teacher in the Evansville school system the past year. He also
coached freshman basketball and as assistant football coach..
30 Years Ago (1977): The Evansville High School juniors on the reigning court for this year’s Junior Class
Prom are Steve Blum, Diane Lundey, Kurt Gransee, Mark Rowley, Sandy Corn, Greg Baumberger, Barb Miller,
Caron Heinemann, King Royce Smelcer and Queen Terry McDonough. The prom is based on a theme of
“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” and will be held at the high school gymnasium. .
20 Years Ago (1987): The new $11.5 million Rock County Jail – Sheriff’s Department is the culmination of
about 15 years of work and battles. The county was given its first hint that a new jail was needed in 1972 when
a report, commissioned by the Rock County Board, projected jail needs several years into the future. The
report was updated in 1974 and again in 1976. The project cost of a new jail in 1976 was about $3.4 million.
That price was updated a few years later to $7.6 mill, but it was not until 1985 that the bonds to fund
construction of the new jail were finally sold. During the jail battle, a citizens committee collected about 5,000
signatures on a petition requesting a referendum on the matter, asked the County Board to reconsider its
decision, requested additional study of remodeling the Janesville Water Street facility, threatened a recall effort
against supervisors who voted in favor of the jail and requested that Richard Everson resign from his post as
chairman of the Public Safety and Justice Committee. At a June 1984 meeting, the County Board Public Safety
and Justice Committee voted in favor of the Pinehurst site, north of Janesville on Highway 51. The project
should be 99-percent complete when it is dedicated May 1, 1987. The architects are Potter, Lawson &
Pawlowsky, Inc. of Madison and the general contractor of the project is Hutter Construction of Fond du Lac.
10 years ago (1997): Everything is ready for “42nd Street,” Evansville’s 31st musical. Evansville’s production
will feature two seniors who are veterans of the school’s arts program: Mark Larson as director, Julian Marsh
and Sara Doering as Peggy Sawyer, the girl who saves the show. Other veterans of the show include: Meg
Krake as Dorothy, the veteran actress who hurts her leg and cannot continue. In all over 60 people are
involved at all levels of the production. The performances are scheduled for April 25, 26, and 27th.
MAY 2007
In Review
First Week of May 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Moses Vervalin has sold his house on Main St. to Rev. Mr. Colman. Mr. C. F. Dicky
has bought a lot in the Baptist Church block and made commencements for a dwelling house. Mr. Plaisted has
a house began adjoining Mr. Sawtell’s. The masons have commenced laying brick on both of the new
Churches. [Note: In 1867, Moses Vervalin’s was a brick maker and his home was at 250 West Main. Colman
was head of the Evansville Seminary. George Plaisted’s home was at 214 West Church. Elnathan Sawtelle
lived at 230 West Church. The new churches under construction were the Methodist and the Baptist.]
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. and Mrs. E. Sargent were called Sunday night last, to mourn the loss of Minnie
May, aged eight years, their eldest daughter. She attended the High School exhibition Thursday night of week
before last, and took part of the “Z” in the Roundelay, and was taken sick that very night, and, despite care with
medical aid, her little spirit passed hence. She had always characterized herself for her gentleness and
amiability, for one of her years, and had endeared herself to all who knew her. Mr. Sargent’s family have the
deep sympathy of all, in this their hour of deep affliction. The funeral took place at the Episcopal church
Tuesday afternoon. Discourse by Rev. Henry Green.
120 Years Ago (1887): The Baker manufacturing company are putting down two lines of railway tracks leading
from different departments of their shops, to connect at right angles with the west side track of the C. & N. W.
road. On these rails are to be placed light push cars to take their manufactured goods away and receive in
turn, stock for the several apartments of their works. At the terminus of the north line of track, is to be a turn-
table to connect with a line running parallel with the side track of the railroad for the purpose of shipping or
receiving freight that may be left for their shops, along the line of the side of the track of the railroad. Large
lumber sheds will be built and if the present influx of business continues, a large community of buildings will
cover the unsightly grounds of the late Lehman furniture shops. This shows a prosperous state of business
worthy of the company’s enterprise. [Note: The Lehman furniture shops, also know as the Evansville Furniture
Company, were located on the east side of Enterprise Street. Lehman’s and Bakers buildings burned in a fire
in 1884. Baker’s rebuilt and Lehman’s did not. Baker’s purchased the Lehman property]
110 Years Ago (1897): George Hall Jr. will give his first exhibition this season at Brooklyn, on Wednesday, May
5.
100 Years Ago (1907): Clarence Baker expects to receive a consignment of touring cars, the last of this week,
direct from the Rambler factory in Kenosha. Two of the cars have been disposed of to Dr. Colony and Ed
Smith, and other parties are contemplating the purchase of an auto. From present indications Evansville will be
well supplied with these cars this season.
90 Years Ago (1917): Roy Reckord, Lyle Blakely, Willis Decker, Howard Morrison and John Medler left Sunday
evening for Toledo, Ohio, from which city they will drive home five Overland cars, including one “six,” three of
which have been sold. They are expected to arrive here this afternoon.
80 Years Ago (1927): Present members of the Junior Forest Rangers in Evansville are Harry Roderick,
President; James Parkins, Vice Pres.; Boyd Crawford, Sec.; Robert Shreve, Treas.; Ralph King, Leroy Geisler,
and Keith Williams. The purpose: To teach youth an appreciation of forest values by actual study and
participation in the process of forest upbuilding. To create in the rising generations a sentiment and knowledge
that will guarantee for the benefits of a regenerated forest life. To provide good times for boys that will be
wholesome; that will build health and character. To cooperate with all agencies now working for a greater
appreciation of our Great-Out-Of-Doors. Henry S. Graves, Pres., American Forestry Association said, “Our
remaining forests are being destroyed at a rate of 400 per cent faster than new forest growth is being
provided. Over ten million acres of cut-over land now awaits development in this state. Many other states have
large areas of similar land.
70 Years Ago (1937): Another step forward in beautifying the city park in time for the summer visitors
expected to crowd the site, was forseen this week as a contract for 85 barrels of cement to be used for
construction work in the park was awarded to Meyers Bros. Lumber Company, according to R. J. Antes,
superintendent of the park WPA project. The concrete will be used for the pointing of a rip-rap at the park, and
for the construction of a scenic pool with a fountain, water for which is to be supplied by a pipe line laid through
the dam some time ago. Frank Francis, Evansville route 3, gave several more elm trees to the city to be
planted in the park. Mr. Francis has previously been a donor of trees from his farm southwest of the city for
park purposes. More trees will be received from him for planting within the next few days. Mrs. Sophia Scott
has the concession again. Shuffleboard, heretofore largely a sport on ocean liners, is expected to be an
attraction for park-goers since the WPA built the courts this summer.
60 Years Ago (1947): The women of the Evansville V. F. W. auxiliary are completing plans for a box social to
which the public is invited to be held next Monday evening at the Golf Course club house. Coffee, cream and
sugar will be provided. Dancing to begin at 8:30 o’clock will precede the sale of boxes. Mrs. Edwin Powers,
Mrs. Lee Ringhand and Mrs. William Park comprise the arrangements committee.
50 Years Ago (1957): Construction will start on Evansville’s new swimming pool. A letter to the contractor, the
Fred J. Rogers and Sons Co. of Hales Corners hoped to start work May 2. Bids for the pool construction were
opened at a special council meeting last Friday and contracts awarded at a meeting Tuesday night after
council members had had a chance to study the various bids. The bids and their amounts included general
construction, awarded to Fred J. Rogers & Sons, Hales Corners, in the amount of $22,686.69 base bid and
$373.78 for the wading pool; pool construction and piping to Fred J. Rogers & Sons in the amounts of
$23,749.11 base bid plus $1,473.03 for the wading pool; filter and chlorinating equipment awarded to United
Water Products Corp., Walworth in the amount of $8,285 and electrical work to Al’s Electric Service, Evansville,
in the amount of $1,559.50. Plumbing bids were rejected and the council is advertising for new bids on this
work. Bids for the needed miscellaneous equipment for the pool will be taken later. The council plans to open
new bids for plumbing the bath house and pool at a later meeting. From the bids received, it is evident that the
city will be able to have its new pool for the money available for the job, $75,000.
60 Years Ago (1967): The theft of a microphone and other equipment from the Evansville Congregational UCC
Church, which occurred last Nov. 6, has been under investigation by the Evansville Police. A few weeks ago,
the local officers received a “tip” and by following it up gained a confession from three youths. The stolen
goods are now in the possession of local police and the Rock County Juvenile officers..
30 Years Ago (1977): Evansville’s American Legion McKinney-Hatlevig Post 35 held a dinner and honor
ceremony Tuesday, April 26, for the area’s veterans of World War I. Harley Smith, one of the vets present,
came to the banquet decked out in his World War I vintage uniform jacket and helmet while others brought in
such souvenirs as propaganda pamphlets dropped by the Germans on Allied front lines urging the troops to go
home and not fight in a war which was not accomplishing anything. Some of the vets had old photos of
themselves and their comrades as well as belt buckles and medals from the war. Claron Powles, C. Rex
Buckeridge, Robert Antes, Herman Oscar, Alvin Olsen, Earl Van Wart, Harley Smith, Leonard Finn, Frank
Bender, Sr., and Roland Rice were World War I veterans attending the event.
20 Years Ago (1987): The 1987 Junior Prom royalty are King Mark Zee and Queen Emmy Wheeler. Court
members are Gretchen Youngman, Jayd Grossman, Kathy Hazlett, Jon Benash, Katie Grimes, Tom Franklin,
Amy Dammen, Brian Reilly, Jan Bue, Tim Madsen, Joanna Knuckles, Mark Walmer, Lori Baertschi, Todd
Hoffman, Marci Hopkins and Mark Bratzke.
10 years ago (1997): The newly built Evansville Dean Clinic at 10 N. Water Street, on the east side of
Evansville will be the site of a gala Open House on Sunday, May 4 from 12 noon to 3 pm. The new facility
boasts expanded room, as well as services, not available previously in the clinic on W. Church Street, where
the clinic was housed until last January.
In Review
Second Week of May 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): We learn that Prof. Colman, of the Evansville Seminary will be a candidate for the
Superintendent of Public Instruction upon the State ticket this fall. We are assured by those who are well
acquainted with Prof. Colman that he is a thorough and popular instructor, and has placed the Evansville
Seminary upon a secure basis by his indefatigueable energy, and that his nomination for the office named is
one “eminently fit to be made.” “Old Rock” is deserving of a place upon the ticket, and we presume her claim
will be recognized. Beloit Journal.
130 Years Ago (1877): Cora Maud Holman, aged 6 years, 2 months and 25 days, died May 6th, 1877, of
malignant Scarlet Fever. Little Cora Holman had been assigned a recitation at the Juvenile Temperance
Meeting but during the week, had been seized with scarlet fever, and was then lying at the point of death. The
bell on the Baptist church tolled the sad hour of her spirit’s departure at 4 o’clock, p.m. This was an incident of
emotion, and drew forth some brief and very appropriate remarks from the President of the Juvenile
Temperance Society.
120 Years Ago (1887): The Fire Company held their annual meeting and election of officers on the 1st
Monday night in May, with the following results: C. E. Lee, Chief of fire department; Ray Gilman, Foreman; N. J.
Kendall, Assistant Foreman; Joshua Frantz, Secretary; Daniel Whaley, 1st Engineer; J. W. Benney, 2d
Engineer; H. H. Blood, Foreman; Charles Powles, Treasurer; George Collier, Foreman of hose; Prentice Call,
Assistant Foreman; Kossuth Morgan and Fred Benedict, Pipemen. Hook and Ladder Company. Albert
Snashall, Foreman; Livingston Frantz, Assistant Foreman; Fred Springer, Secretary; Fred A Baker, Treasurer;
and Charles Moore, Steward.
110 Years Ago (1897): Two well known youths from Evansville spent last evening in the Rock county jail.
Yesterday afternoon Janesville Police Chief Hogan found the young men in a beastly state of intoxication
asleep beside a grain elevator near the railroad tracks in Janesville. When they awoke in jail this morning they
both begged so hard not to be brought into court, that they were released and told to go home.
100 Years Ago (1907): The dedication of the Catholic church in this city, occurs Sunday next immediately after
the morning service. Not only will many of the priests from the adjoining cities be present, but Bishop Messmer
of Milwaukee, will bless the church and society. The choir from the Catholic church in Beloit will be present and
assist materially in the services.
90 Years Ago (1917): Miss Minnie Milbrandt, teacher of the White Star school, and pupil, Miss Alma Babler,
attended the spelling contest at the Eagle school house, Miss Babler taking first in writing there.
80 Years Ago (1927): Believing that on account of over fifty years of service in the Baptist churches and
Sunday Schools of Union and Evansville, he was justified in letting some of the work fall on younger shoulders,
W. W. Gillies last Sunday, closed his work as superintendent of the Baptist Church of this city, however
retaining his position as teacher of the Adult Class. After a service of something over fifty years in the Baptist
Church work here and at Union, during which time he had put in many years as school superintendent and at
different times filled other offices in the school and church, always conscientious and faithful, the people of the
church and school were saddened by the thought that failing health made it necessary for him to resign even a
part of the work. In behalf of the whole school Dr. Shipman presented Mr. Gillies with a nice fountain pen set
given by the adults, intermediates and juniors and a framed motto by the primary department, while each
beginner presented him with a beautiful carnation.
70 Years Ago (1937): Harry Roderick Jr. Sees Hindenburg Tragedy. A cogent description of tragic scenes at
the site of the “Hindenburg” tragedy was received here by Mr. and Mrs. Harry Roderick in a letter from their
son, Harry, Jr., who is stationed at Fort Monmouth, New Jersey, in an officers training camp, and who was at the
scene of the crash only a short time after it occurred.
60 Years Ago (1947): The Evansville Chapter of American War Mothers will sponsor a Memorial Day
carnation sale Saturday, May 10. Those in charge are Mrs. Sever Hatlevig, Mrs. Frank Topp, Mrs. John
Sullivan and Mrs. Burton Wall.
50 Years Ago (1957): The Methodist Church will hold open house Sunday, May 19, in the new addition which
has recently been completed on the church edifice. At the regular Sunday morning workshop services, there
will be a dedication of the new altar, pulpit, lectern, and red hangings in the church. The pulpit hanging is in
memory of David Johnson, the alter hanging in memorial to George Buehler, and the lectern hanging is an
anonymous gift. The handsome two-story addition at the rear of the church is the culmination of more than ten
years of planning by Methodists here. For some time the church has found it was faced with the same problem
that faces so many public schools, insufficient classroom space for its growing Sunday school group. In
addition the members were faced with the problem of replacement of an old heating plant. Starting about ten
years ago, the church held a number of meetings to try to work out a plan which would be both practical and
agreeable to a majority of members of the church.
60 Years Ago (1967): Robert Smith, head football and wrestling coach five years at Evansville, has resigned to
accept a physical education and drivers education teaching position in New Berlin High School. Named as
head football coach is Richard Schwartz, assistant coach under Smith the past season. Schwartz, a native of
Darlington, graduated from Platteville State University in June of 1965. He teaches industrial arts. Schwartz
presently is serving a 20 week tour with the U. S. Army. He will return August 10 for the beginning of the fall
football season. James Ganoung has been named as the assistant to Schwartz. Ganoung, a graduate of
Whitewater in elementary education, was an outstanding athlete at Evansville High School and at Whitewater in
football and track. Schwartz and Ganoung will assist Gary Hurtley in track next spring.
30 Years Ago (1977): All festivals take some long range planning but some more than others. One of the
ones which takes a little bit more is the first annual Timbo’s Pumpkin Growing Contest and Festival scheduled
to top-out this coming October 15. Timbo the Clown says: “This fall we are going to have the “Giant Pumpkin
Contest” with prizes given for the largest pumpkin submitted by a grade school student, a middle school
student, and a high school student. We will also have a Jack O’Lantern contest in which prizes will be
awarded.” Prizes are being donated by the Evansville Chamber of Commerce. On Saturday, October 15, two
weeks before Halloween, we will have a Pumpkin Festival in which all the pumpkins will be judged. Seeds and
directions for planting are available at the local school offices for 25 cents.” .
20 Years Ago (1987): J. Peter Shaw, Guidance Director, announced that four 11th grade students have been
selected at Evansville High School to be the school’s 1987 delegates to Badger Boys State and Badger Girls
State. The Girls State representatives are Marci Hopkins, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Hopkins, 28 Fifth
Street, Evansville and Patti Neefe, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Neefe, Route 1, Evansville. The Boys State
representatives are Dan McFarlin and Greg Wahl. Dan McFarlin, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard McFarlin,
10 Higgins Drive, Evansville and Greg Wahl is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Paulson and the late James Wahl.,
Evansville.
10 years ago (1997): Melissa Whitmore, Evansville, a special education major at UW-Eau Claire has been
elected as president elect of the Student Council for Exceptional Children. She was elected while attending the
SCEC national conference in Salt Lake City, Utah. She is the first UW-Eau Claire student to hold the position
and will become president of the organization the following year. Melissa currently serves as president of UW-
Eau Claire’s SCEC chapter.
In Review
Third Week of May 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Evansville Base Ball Club meet every Wednesday and Friday, P.M. at 3 o’clock, for
field exercise, on the ground south of the Seminary.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mrs. Powles’ school of juveniles, numbering some 60 or over, had dwindled down to
less than a score, by reason of the scarlet fever, which had taken such a fatal hold upon the children of the
place. We are informed by that lady Monday that the disease was abating and her pupils returning, much to
her satisfaction. DIED in Union, May 13th of Scarlet Fever, after an illness of five days, Electra A., only
daughter of Alfred and Anna Jones, aged 16 years, 11 months and 10 days.
120 Years Ago (1887): As Miss Moore, daughter of Mr. Zeb Moore of West Magnolia, was coming into town
Sunday night, and just as she approached the track near Mr. J. M. Cole’s, the cars hove in sight, going south,
and she being pretty near the track, her horse took fright and made a sudden turn, throwing the lady out and
overturning the carriage, breaking it considerably. The girl had hardly struck the ground before she was upon
her feet, and had such a firm hold upon her horse that she brought him too at once, and prevented a runaway
and amore serious damage to her carriage. Persons who witnessed her fortunate escape rushed to her
rescue, helped her rig up her carriage, and she drove off home.
110 Years Ago (1897): Invitations are out for the marriage of Mr. Frank Bullard and Miss Anna Tupper, on the
17th inst.
100 Years Ago (1907): Sunday, May 12, 1907, will always be remembered by the Catholics of Evansville, as
the time when the dedication of their church was made. The day was most auspicious for such, and the
attendance was simply immense. People from Beloit, Janesville, Edgerton, Stoughton, Brodhead, Albany, and
country homes were present, and it was soon found that the church was by far too small to admit them.
Archbishop Sebastian Messmer of Milwaukee, preached the sermon of dedication, and those who heard him
affirm the address as one of the finest they ever listened to. In the course of his remarks the archbishop
thanked the Protestants of Evansville, who contributed nearly one thousand dollars towards the building fund.
Father J. F. Fitzgerald, also of Milwaukee, assisted in the services. The male choir of St. Thomas’ church in
Beloit, numbering twelve people, participated in the dedication exercises, and sang several selections. At the
close of the sermon, five persons were confirmed and were, Anastasia Reilly, Mrs. Schleim, Joseph
Bodenberger, Frank Montgomery and Leo Murray. The Knights of Columbus from Janesville and Beloit also
members of the Total Abstinence society of Edgerton were present and made a very creditable showing in their
parade to the church. Father Eugene McCarthy is the resident priest and being a young man of considerable
energy and push, is not only well-liked by his people, but wields a strong power with them for a good and holier
life.
90 Years Ago (1917): Mr. and Mrs. Earl Allen announce the arrival of a son at their home on Wednesday
morning. Jug Prairie News
80 Years Ago (1927): Swancutt School One of The Oldest in County. Those who drive the Albany road west
of Moore’s Corners cannot fail to notice the old stone school house. This old school building has made history
in this part of the county, having been built in 1850. The work being done by an Irishman by the name of
Buckley, who did his work so well that it still stands after seventy-seven years. J. G. Babcock, who is one of the
early settlers of this locality states that the building of this school house was quite an event in this locality in
those days, as there had been three other schools in this locality before it was built, constructed of saw mill
slabs, sawed at the old Norton Mill, close to where the red bridge on Highway 59 now stands. These old
buildings, Mr. Babcock states were built of slabs doubled, the round side of one slab being on the inside and
the round side of the outer side, out, so that they looked like log buildings. The benches, he stated were made
of split logs with holes bored in one side into which the legs were driven. He thinks the hardness of these seats
may be the reason why he is so tall and slim, as they were so hard that his head and shoulders were always
trying to get away from their awful hardness. Mr. Babcock states that the first teacher he can remember at the
Swancutt school was Horace Henderson and later Frances Platt, who married George Kellan, of Janesville, a
nurseryman and he believes that her descendants are still in the nursery business in that city.
70 Years Ago (1937): The junior prom of the Class of ’38 will be held at the high school gym Friday night, with
Judd Binkert’s Fort Atkinson orchestra providing the dance tunes. Couples, attired in their best for the most
important social event of the school year, will glide about the smooth gym floor in a rainbow setting arranged by
the decorations committee. Heading the grand march will be Theodore Thompson, prom king and president of
the junior class, and Roberta Collins, prom queen. Numerous former students are expected back to make
prom night a reunion night.
60 Years Ago (1947): The 1947 junior promenade held last Friday evening in the high school gymnasium
with a social function of which Prom Chairman Kenneth Devlin and his cohorts can justly be proud from an
aesthetic point of view at least. Much credit goes to Miss Natalie Meehan junior class advisor for her untiring
efforts and assistance in planning the affair and supervising the preparatory work which was ably accomplished
by student committees. More than 200 couples of students, alumni and friends danced to the music of Eddie
Laurenz’ orchestra in the gym which was decorated to represent the porch of a southern plantation. Prom King
Ken Devlin and his chosen queen, Betty Dutcher, led the grand march followed in turn by Senior class
president, Ronald Wall, and Jean Kelm, Junior class president, Demar Lunde, and Jane Holman, Senior class
vice president, Richard Antes, and Virginia Ten Eyck, Roger Wood and Marcia Patterson, Roland Straka and
Joan Hansen, then the members of the Senior class, the Junior class members, the sophomore and freshmen.
50 Years Ago (1957): A dividend of $1.25 per share was declared on Baker Mfg. Co. common and preferred
stocks of record by the firm’s board of directors, according to an announcement made last week by J. R.
Myrold, secretary-treasurer of the company.
60 Years Ago (1967): Louia R. Gransee, pastor of the Advent Christian Church of Baraboo, Wis., and the son
of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gransee of Evansville will receive the degree of Master of Divinity at the eighty-ninth
annual commencement exercises of the Evangelical Theological Seminary, Naperville, Illinois on Friday, May
19.
30 Years Ago (1977): The Evansville High School has announced the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the
graduating class of 1977. Two girls will lead the ceremonies this year. Debra Blum, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Jay Blum, 339 Lincoln Street is Valedictorian for the class of 1977. Deb plans to attend Edgewood College at
Madison next year and major in Medical Technology. The Salutatorian for the class of 1977 is Jane Norby,
daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Norby, 330 South First Street. Jane will attend the University of Wisconsin-
Oshkosh next year to pursue a career in nursing..
20 Years Ago (1987): Ken Fenrick, former school board member of six years, is returning to the school board,
to fill the one-year vacancy of Wayne Wilson, who resigned recently. Board members Phil Hamilton and Mary
Abey expressed their opinions that Fenrick’s expertise is sorely needed on the board and was the important
factor in making the motion to have Fenrick fill the vacancy. Fenrick had indicated he would serve, as did the
write-in candidates, Tom Madsen, Lyle Trow, and Richard Hamacher.
10 years ago (1997): Alex Strassburg will graduate from the UW Medical School on May 16. He will start a
residency in Internal Medicine at Eastern Carolina University in Greenville, NC. Jesse Strassburg graduates on
Sunday, May 18, with a B. S. in Meat and Animal Science from UW-Madison’s School of Agriculture. He will
enter the Peace Corps in late September for two years in Tanzania. They are sons of Elaine Strassburg,
Evansville and the late Richard Strassburg.
In Review
Fourth Week of May 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): A brief report of Wilder’s cheese factory was quite extensively copied into the state
papers as well as in some of the leading dairy papers of the East. The success was so flattering to the patrons
that instead of falling off, a large percentage has been the actual gain. Two vats only were used last year and
we are informed by Mr. Wilder that he will have to add another before this season closes. In point of quality,
but few brands command a higher price in the Chicago market, than “Wilder’s” Evansville. Mr. Wilder is
manufacturing many articles used by cheesemen, such as vats brands, and is ever ready to communicate
whatever information is desired to any one who may favor him wih a call, and show them through his factory,
and the long lines of golden cheeses made this season.
130 Years Ago (1877): Griswold & Co. started up their soda fountain in full blast, the other day, having
polished the silver mountings and put the machine in prime order for business. It is a popular resort of a warm,
pleasant evening, and the beverage is of the most health-giving, exhilarating character. A season ticket
costing $1.00 saves the purchaser 25 per cent of the cost of a single glass.
120 Years Ago (1887): The boys met Monday night and organized a juvenile fire company, and officered it with
the following: Frank Morse, foreman; Will Sargent, 1st assistant foreman; Charles M. Smith, Jr., 2nd assistant
foreman; Robert Hartley, secretary; John Evans, Jr., steward; Frank Shively, treasurer; Otto Cooper, foreman
of hose; Grant Doolittle, assistant foreman; Charles Holland and Will Taggart, pipe men. The boys can throw
sand, lots of it, and can throw water, as well, when needed.
110 Years Ago (1897): The Evansville Laundry, Baker Block, is now prepared to do all kinds of laundry work
and will spare no efforts to give the people of Evansville a grade of work that will keep their patronage at
home. Work is called for and delivered free. B. T. Bryan, Prop.
100 Years Ago (1907): The Franklin Blueing company are making preparations to erect a two-story factory on
Lincoln street this season. From a small beginning in a room big enough to turn around in, the business has
increased to such an extent that new quarters have to be made for it. The company is composed of Frank and
Fred Franklin, the senior partner being on the road continually selling the product, while Fred looks after the
manufacturing end of the concern.
90 Years Ago (1917): Harry and Eugene Fitzgerald were each fined $28.45 on Monday morning for having
engaged in a fight with Harold Kelly in this city on Saturday night. Accompanied by Fred Schulz and John
Dooley, they came from the I. O. O. F. dance and meeting Kelly, began quarreling with him about an alleged
misunderstanding over a girl at the dance. The Fitzgeralds proceeded to attack Kelly, Eugene inflicting the
most punishment. To avoid arrest, Eugene ran and jumped in his buggy and tried to escape, but was checked
in time for Chief of Police Gilman to nab him. He spent Sunday in jail. The Fitzgeralds, it is said, were under
the influence of liquor.
80 Years Ago (1927): Mr. William Steele was born October 10, 1863, near Madison, Wis., and died at his
home near Evansville May 21, 1927. Mr. Steele has been in failing health for the past five years. He was
married to Miss Nellie Patchen, April 2, 1896. To this union was born one son, Orrie, who with the widow, four
sister, the Misses, Jennie, Tina, and Ida Steele of Evansville, and Mrs. Mary McGau of Syenne; one
granddaughter, two nephews and several nieces survive him. Funeral services were held Tuesday in the home
and in the Free Methodist Church, the Rev. J. K. Peckham officiating. Burial was in Maple Hill cemetery.
70 Years Ago (1937): Joseph Bodenberger, 61, secretary of the Baker Manufacturing Company, purchasing
agent, and member of the board of directors, passed away in a Madison hospital after an illness of two weeks.
Double pneumonia and complications was the cause of death. Funeral services will be held at St. Paul’s
Catholic church, with the Rev. Fr. Schladweiler officiating. Mr. Bodenberger was born in Bohemia, July 16,
1865, and came to Iowa as a boy. He worked his way through school and after graduating from Janesville
business college, came to Evansville, where he was employed as a telegrapher and trouble shooter by the
Northwestern Road for a few years before entering the employ of the Baker company thirty-five years ago. On
June 21, 1904, he married Mary Wurms of Waukesha who survives him with one daughter, Mrs. John
Gedakovitz, Waukesha and a half brother, Anton Geisler, Evansville.
60 Years Ago (1947): At a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Baker Manufacturing Company, it was
announced that starting June 1, 1947, all pay rates are to be increased ten cents an hour. This will bring the
starting rate to eighty-one cents an hour. Incentive pay in the production department will add another ten to
fifteen cents an hour to this rate. This is the second general pay raise and the third increase in minimum pay
within the last thirteen months. It was also announced that working schedules will be reduced to bring them
more in line with other similar industries in the area. The company plans to eventually reduce the work week to
forty hours. In addition to the regular pay the employees receive profit sharing. Last year $33,000 in stock
and cash was distributed in profit sharing among ninety-six employees.
50 Years Ago (1957): Committee on Licenses, report that they have fully examined the applications of the
following individuals and firms applying for Fermented Malt and Intoxicated Liquor Licenses: C. Ira Larsen and
Byrl Rowley, at Central Tavern, 101 East Main; Gilbert Fahrney and Walter Gene Fink, doing business at Gib &
Wally’s, 6 East Main; Ralph Brzezinski, Sr., doing business as East Side Inn, 230 East Main Street; McKinney-
Hatlevig Post #35, 19 East Main Street; Joe Tresch, 14 North Madison; Stanley K. Sperry, doing business as
“Sperry’s Hotel”, 155 East Main Street; William E. Brown, Brown Drug Store, 7 West Main Street; Peter A.
Hamacher, Krebs Pharmacy, 1 East Main Street; Raymond B. Knapp, Beverage Mart, 368 North Madison
Street; Floyd M. Nesbit, 4 East Main Street; Dr. F. J. Bongiorno, Evansville Dairy Bowl, 108 East Main Street;
and Agnes C. McBride, Norm’s Hi-Way Inn, 497 East Main Street.
60 Years Ago (1967): Evansville High School Dance Band will don their new navy blue blazers for their
forthcoming Pop Concert this Sunday evening. The blazers were recently purchased by the Band Parents at a
cost of $500. The band members are: Carol Maas, Gwen Sarow, Andy Wyse, Gene Prudhon, Steve Showers,
Kay Shannon, Don Cornwell, Karbet Schoenenberger, Bonnie Fellows, Joe Peterson, Roger Sarow, Jeff Porter,
Doug Conners, Terry Jorgensen, Tony Farrell, Gary Shull, Parker Gibbs, Randy Rasmussen, John Paulsen,
Arlene Phillips and Marge Sumner. The Director is Raymond Baumgardt.
30 Years Ago (1977): Students will get a chance to dunk some of their fav orite coaches and the coaches will
get a chance to dunk some of their favorite students at the Evansville Elementary School sponsored Art, Craft,
Plant and Antique Fair. Those scheduled for the dunk tank are baseball coach Daryl Fuchs; teaching assistant
Carole Van; basketball coach, Dennis Reese; girls’ track coach Mary O’Connell; Eric Hurtley, tennis coach,
Helene O’Reilly; track coach, Ron Grovesteen; Kitty Verkeilen, track coach, John O’Connell; Laura Leopold,
football coach, Bob Berezowitz; vocational coordinator, Dick Schwartz; Roger Gray, Debra Natz, and Randy
Keister.
20 Years Ago (1987): J. Peter Shaw, Guidance Director, of the Evansville High School is proud to announce
the Valedictorian, Salutatorian and Honor graduates for the class of 1987. April Rockstead, daughter of Mr.
and Mrs. Roger Rockstead, Route 2, Evansville is Valedictorian for the Class of 1987. The Salutatorian for the
Class of 1987 is Janell Johnson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Johnson, Crocker Road, Brooklyn. High
honor students include Christia Baumberger, Amy Goding, Donald Templeton, Tyna Lund and Jody Zweifel.
Honor graduates are Matthew Hamilton, Christine Bartle, Richard Templeton, Ann Adams, Marie Luers and
Marlene Moffett.
10 years ago (1997): Dawn M. Sarbacker, Evansville native and graduate of Evansville High school is the new
Branch Manager at the University of Wisconsin Credit Union, where she will manage the branch office in the
University Square Mall. She has 13 years of experience in the financial industry.
In Review
Fifth Week of May 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): MARRIED. May 30th, 1867, by Rev. John Wesley Cawthorn, of the M. E. Church, Mr.
John Rodd, of Magnolia, Wis., to Miss Katie M. Moore, of Lamont, Ottawa Co., Mich.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Aaron Rowley, father of James Rowley, Esq., and one of the old pioneers of Union,
died Saturday. Funeral service took place from the Free Baptist Church, Monday.
120 Years Ago (1887): The families of A. S. Baker and C. H. Wilder rode across the country Wednesday to
visit Mr. Aller’s people at Johnstown. Mr. Baker is looking up the electric light business a little and will visit
Whitewater and Waukesha. Dr. Thos. Addison, representing the United States Electric Lighting Company of
Chicago, was in town Monday, looking up the prospect of putting in a plant here. The Baker manufacturing
Company are considering the matter and if it proves as Mr. Addison represents and our people will take hold of
it, we can have our village illuminated with bright electric lights the same as Beloit is having and what
Whitewater, Waukesha, and other places in Wisconsin are enjoying at a trifling cost above the old “tallow
dips.” Good light is one of the moral excellencies of the people and a great moral purifier. Let us go in for it.
110 Years Ago (1897): Decoration Day. A nicer day for this occasion could not have been asked for in
Evansville. The business places and many residences were handsomely decorated at an early hour, and all
seemed anxious and willing to pay a fitting tribute to our fallen comrades. The procession was a little late in
starting for the cemetery, in order to avoid trains which were due; but the march was taken up in regular order
and a large crowd of people accompanied the old soldiers upon their mission to the cemetery. Nearly every
grave there was remembered with some friendly token, as well as those of the fallen soldiers. The usual G.A.R.
services were all that was performed at the cemetery, after which all returned to the opera hall, the seating
capacity of which was all taken, aside from that reserved for the societies, long before the arrival of those from
the cemetery. To the ladies and the school children and their teachers do the old soldiers owe a great deal for
the success of this occasion. Had it not been for them our ranks would have been very thin indeed. Every
scholar, including the little tots, marched in line, each of them carrying a flag which they proudly waved,
teaching the older ones patriotism, instead of being taught. It is hoped that these days may make such an
impression upon the coming generation, as will never be forgotten after the last old soldier has long passed
away.
100 Years Ago (1907): Photographer E. E. Combs took a picture of thirteen Rambler automobiles in front of
Gillman & Sons’ Clothing store. The machines were all owned by Evansville parties, with the exception of one
owned by Homer Sholtz of Brooklyn, which was also in the line. The agent, C. S. Baker had two or three
machines, and the others represented were owned by the following citizens: Walter Blunt, Clint Scofield, Fred
Baker, Dr. Colony, Ed. Smith, Dr. Smith, Mayor C. J. Pearsall, Gertrude Eager, Geo. L. Pullen and H. Sholtz.
90 Years Ago (1917): 23 are on high school class roll: Jessie Mae Mapes, Earl Van Wart, Olga Berg, Ethel
Mae Johnson, Mildred M. Cain, Lottie A. Johnson, Marion Irene Cole, Walter Adelbert Knapp, Maude Fell, Elzie
B. Libby, Glenn F. Fellows, Gladys Ursula North, Kenneth S. Fellows, C. Arden Patterson, Helen Mabel Funk,
Richard Andros Schleim, Iva M. Hollibush, Ida Ingram Tomlin, Elizabeth Jane Weaver, Robert Lee Woodard,
Richard D. Evans, Helen A. Meyers, Vernaline M. Johnson. Commencement week of the high school will begin
with the baccalaureate sermon at the opera house on Sunday evening at seven-thirty o’clock. Commencement
will be give on Thursday evening at eight-fifteen o’clock at the opera house.
80 Years Ago (1927): Workmen are this week busy at the D. E. Wood Butter Co. plant installing a new
refrigerating system and electrifying the entire plant. Steam power will no longer be used but two large motors,
one thirty horse and one twenty horse will supplant the old steam engines. These motors will run all the
machinery of the plant and three three-horse power pumps which will pump water at the rate of 150 gallons a
minutes for the use of the plant and for making the brine which runs through the pipes of the cooling
machines.
70 Years Ago (1937): Union Play Day will be held Monday, May 31 at the fair grounds. The officers of the
play day are as follows: president, Dana Phelps; vice president, La Verne Ringhand; secretary and treasurer,
Ruth Allen; games chairman, Robert Franklin; stand chairman, Harry Spooner; horse shoe, Hans Norby;
kittenball, Claude De Remer; relays, jumping and throws, Orville Devlin; bean bag throw, Gladys Peterson; and
scorekeeper, Berta Odegaard. The following districts will take part: Tupper, Butts Corner, Union, Pleasant
Prairie, Holt, Tullar, Brown, Franklin and No. 10.
60 Years Ago (1947): Douglas Hull, Evansville’s representative in the southern Wisconsin-northern Illinois
Marbles Tournament held in Beloit on Sunday, blasted his way to the quarter finals of the big Mibs Jamboree,
covering himself with glory before he bowed out with a smile and the good sportsmanship typical of all
Evansville kids. Douglas returned to Evansville with a silver medal, a box of agates, a flashlight and Beloit
Theater tickets for his afternoon’s work.
50 Years Ago (1957): After 37 years of service, Orville Jones has retired from active duty as a member of the
Evansville fire department. Members of the department have made him an honorary life member and
presented him with a wrist watch at a recent meeting of the department. Jones’ service with the department
actually began in 1899 and covered 37 years of active service since then. When he started with the
department, horses were of course used to draw the hose cart and ladder truck. Fire department chiefs with
whom he has served include Ray Gilman, Fred Gilman, Ben Bly, Leslie Giles and the present chief Chet
Jorgensen.
60 Years Ago (1967): Ken Ellis, president of the Evansville Golf Association accepted a $94,000 loan check
from Farmers Home Administration Agency to develop a golf course at Evansville. Plans call for the immediate
completion of a 9-hole golf course, club house, and irrigated fairways. The loan will be repaid over a period of
40 years. Officers of the Evansville Golf Association are Kenneth Ellis, president; Alfred Ward, vice president;
Betty Gray, treasurer; and J. R. McElroy, secretary.
30 Years Ago (1977): Alvin Helgesen, owner-manager of Helgesen’s, Inc. in Evansville has announced that the
firm has taken on the Ford franchise for this area. Helgesen’s current product line consists of Pontiac, AMC,
and lawn products. The Helgesens are completing an expansion program of their facilities here in Evansville.
The automobile showroom has been enlarged into the area where the parts department was formerly located.
The showroom ceiling has been lowered with modern lighting installed. The shop area has been almost
doubled in area with a new hydraulic hoist having been installed. The parts department has been conveniently
located next to the work area and the entire shop has been made more efficient. With new light tan metal
siding, the outside appearance of the building has been enhanced.
20 Years Ago (1987): Principles in the 1987 Memorial Day ceremonies at the Maple Hill cemetery in Evansville
were Mae Thompson of Footville who has served for 17 years as our Gold Star Mother, Charlie Nordeng, Ron
Peckham, Rev. Dave Farina and Tom U’Ren. Peckham delivered the Memorial Day address which was
outstanding and is published in the Review. The parade began at 9:30 a.m. at the post office and proceeded
east on Main Street to the Cemetery. There was the customary solemn and impressive ceremony to stress the
significance of Memorial Day and to honor our War Dead. Participating in the ceremonies were the Evansville
High School band, the Evansville Middle School band, the Evansville Pom Pom girls, the Evansville Generic
Band, the Boy Scouts, the American Legion and VFW.
10 years ago (1997): Governor Tommy Thompson will be the featured guest at Union Bank & Trust Co. in
Evansville on Friday afternoon, May 30. Leonard P. Eager, Jr., president of Union Bank & Trust Company
confirmed that the Governor’s office has indicated that Gov. Thompson will be speaking as part of the bank’s
centennial celebration. “A visit from the Governor is quite a birthday present for the bank and an honor for the
community,” said Eager.
In Review
First Week of June 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): We are very thankful to Mr. Abbott of Madison, for the very handsome donation of $20,
on the marble tablet which now adorns our new church; moreover are very much pleased with the execution of
the work. The marble is four feet long by twenty inches wide, neatly inscribed “M. E. Church, 1867,” in raised
letters, not only adding beauty to the front of our church, but honor to mechanics who executed the marble. I
observe on entering our cemetery, a marked difference in the general good taste and superior workmanship of
the monuments and slabs that stand sentinels at the resting places of our loved ones, not a mar, or a single
false stroke of the chisel can be observed on those coming from Mr. Abbott’s Marble Works, in Madison.
[Note: Mr. Abijah Abbott, marble dealer, Madison, was one of the leading stonecutters in Wisconsin. His twelve-
man operation was located near the Square.]
130 Years Ago (1877): State Superintendent Searing called upon us Friday morning. He had been to
Magnolia to settle a school house site difficulty and was on his way home. The difficulty is in the Huyks’ district,
where the house was burned last winter. [State Superintendent of Schools Edward Searing was once a school
teacher in Union. A bust of Searing can be seen at the Eager Free Public Library.]
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. James A. Flowers was killed at the coal shed here at about 15 minutes to twelve o’
clock, Tuesday night, by falling beneath a coal box car he was riding down the incline track of the coal shed to
the track below. The car was without a properly working brake, a fact he probably was not aware of when he
climbed upon it, hence he could not control its motion and it went crashing down upon the cars that already
stood upon the track and the sudden concussion threw him off, falling forward, the car passed over his body
crushing in his head and producing instant death. The remains were properly taken care of by the Co.’s agent,
Mr. P. H. Noel, and placed in Undertaker Potter’s hands for interment. His funeral was held at the M. E. church
Thursday, and he was buried in G.A.R. memorial lot in the cemetery, with all the care and consolation that the
order could bestow. He leaves a wife and two children in poor circumstances.
110 Years Ago (1897): Building inspector Snashall is not well pleased with his treatment of late; he says that
none of the new buildings being built of late within the fire limits, are according to the requirements of our city
laws, and that his complaints have been ignored, and the city board have permitted the builders to go on with
their work in their own way.
100 Years Ago (1907): The old settlers reunion of northern Rock and southern Dane counties will be held in
Cooksville, Thursday, June 20. As usual, it will be a basket picnic and everybody is urged to be present.
90 Years Ago (1917): Registration day passed off quietly, Tuesday, when 162 men, between the ages of 21
and 30, inclusive, registered for military service. It is believed that all men in this city of military age registered.
Sixty-nine claimed exemption from draft for different reasons, and six aliens put their names on Uncle Sam’s war
books. It is predicted that the drawing of men will be made at an early date, so that the soldiers-to-be can
arrange their personal affairs before reporting at army camps.
80 Years Ago (1927): Pleasant Prairie School will hold their picnic dinner Thursday, June 2nd, instead of
Friday, due to the fact that the town of Union Play Day comes Saturday, June 4th, thinking it best to have one
day between. Miss Mary Montgomery is the teacher.
70 Years Ago (1937): Fifty-one students will receive their diplomas tonight from Supt. J. C. McKenna, marking
the end of their school careers. Speakers on the subject, “Building of a Full Life” include Dorothy Jahn,
introduction; Thelma Kleinsmith, health education; Alvin Golz, academic subjects; Beulah Gransee, vocational
education; Albert Gibbs, physical education; Beth Schuster, music; Phillip Croake, forensics; Doris Collins,
home economics; Jane Groh, dramatics; and Dorothy Jahn, conclusion. Senior girls of the glee club will sing,
followed by the presentation of diplomas, and concluding with the recessional by Angela Bewick.
60 Years Ago (1947): Richard Antes has been engaged as life guard at Lake Leota for the summer months
and is now on duty. The capable guard will be on the beach daily from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., from 1:30 to 5:
30 and from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Evansville parents are requested by the park board to prohibit their children
from swimming in the lake when the guard is not on duty. The city has not had a drowning casualty while the
guard was on duty for many years which is attributed to the excellent work of the life guards who have been on
duty and the utmost cooperation of parents and swimmers. Lake Leota is a popular resort during the hot
months and local children are fortunate in having swimming facilities so close at hand.
50 Years Ago (1957): The City Council reaffirmed its earlier decision to make $2,000 available for dredging
Lake Leota this summer and also instructed the clerk-treasurer to open a new bank account to handle some
$8,000 in parking meter funds. The meters are currently bringing about $125 weekly into the city coffers.
60 Years Ago (1967): Scott Sperry, son of Mrs. Stanley Sperry, Sr., was wounded in Viet Nam on Sunday, May
21, while on patrol duty in the Marines and has been flown back to the U. S. He is presently receiving treatment
at the Great Lakes Naval Hospital, Great Lakes, Ill. His injuries include shrapnel wounds in his arm and hand.
The following members of his family visited him Sunday: his mother, Mrs. Iris Sperry; his brothers, Ross and
Jed; his brother and sister-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Sperry, Jr., and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred
Sperry, Evansville and his brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Lindemann, Omaha, Neb. Sperry
has been in the Marines the past three years and in Viet Nam for nearly one year.
30 Years Ago (1977): Miss Cheryl Ann Gibbs became the bride of Gary Wayne Fuchs in a Saturday evening
ceremony at the United Methodist Church. Cheryl is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Gibbs and Gary’s
parents are Mr. and Mrs. Victor Fuchs.
.
20 Years Ago (1987): At a special council meeting on Wednesday night of last week, Bill Hurtley was appointed
as emergency medical service coordinator. He replaces Karen Krause, who resigned May 15.
10 years ago (1997): Commencement for 94 students will be held this Sunday, June 8, in the Evansville High
School gym. Sara Luchsinger, president of the 1997 class, will give the welcome, followed by the
commencement address of Salutatorian Beth Piper. Foreign exchange students, Michele Galleno, Thomas
Lous and Laetitia Tartaix will present their farewells. Mitchell Illichmann, Valedictorian, will give his
commencement address. Honors awards will be presented by high school principal Robert Scott, following by
the Presentation of the Graduation Class by Kenneth Fenrick, Board of Education president; and Dr. Thomas
Benzinger, District Administrator.
In Review
Second Week of June 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The Methodists have just completed the exterior of their church edifice. It is a splendid
structure and a decided ornament to the place. The Ladies will hold their Strawberry Festival and Fair in the
new church Friday afternoon June 14th. No pains will be spared to make this a very pleasant and attractive
entertainment. At this festival articles manufactured by the ladies will be offered for sale. The proceeds are to
be used to purchase furniture, etc. for the church. An admission of 20 cents will be charged at the door.
Children, 10 cents.
130 Years Ago (1877): A brilliant wedding took place Wednesday evening at St. John’s church, the
participants being Dr. D. C. Griswold, principal of the drug firm of D. C. Griswold & Co., and Miss Lizzie Evans,
only daughter of Dr. J. M. Evans, both of Evansville. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Henry Green. A
grand reception was held in the evening. They left for the East on the midnight train. [Note: St. Johns was the
Episcopal church on the site of the current post office.]
120 Years Ago (1887): The graduating exercises of the Evansville High School took place at Wood & Kendall’s
Opera House on Friday afternoon the 3rd inst. The house was well filled with a very appreciative audience.
The stage was decorated most beautifully with flowers of the choicest kind. Everything being in readiness, the
Revs. F. L. Wharton and E. R. Curry; the school board and the teachers entered and took their places on the
left; these were followed by the class, which consisted of eight members, one male and seven females and took
their positions on the right. The speaking commenced by an oration, “Salutatory” by Arthur M. McCoy. The
next was an oration by Hattie Joslyn, the subject being “Immediate and Remote Results”; Essay by Belle E.
Lloyd, “Poverty an Element of Success”; Oration by Nellie M. Walker, “Unseen Forces”; Oration by Maud
Luddington, “From Acorn to Oak.”; Oration “Compensation” by Alice M. Leighton; Essay, “Simon says Thumbs
up”, Mae Wolff; Oration and Valedictory, “Gold Digging” by Mae E. Stevens. Then followed the presentation of
diplomas by Mr. J. R. West who delivered a few parting words to the class. When we see such a class as the
one on Friday, it shows plainly that the school has been under good rule and in efficient hands to produce such
results. We may well feel a pride in our high school; it is worthy of all praise.
110 Years Ago (1897): The school board have located the site for the new school building in the southeast
corner of the present grounds, the best and most available spot that could be selected, although it must
necessary destroy quite a number of the most beautiful shade trees. The building of the new school building
was awarded to Messrs. Wm. Libby and R. Hankinson for $8,848. We are glad that this work was kept within
our own city. The work will commence at once. Ground was broke, Tuesday for the new school building. Mr.
A. M. Van Wormer has the job of removing the dirt for the basement and foundation. [Note: This building was
a new high school that was razed in 1939, and replaced with the school on South First Street.]
100 Years Ago (1907): If more of our corner lot property owners would follow the example of Miss Eleanora
Andrews in not only putting in a good sidewalk in front of her property on Church street, but likewise extending
the cement curbstone on the Third street side, it would aid materially to the beauty of our city. Tolles & Cook
are doing this work and it is a very creditable job at that. [Note: The Andrews property was at 262 West
Church Street.]
90 Years Ago (1917): G. R. McArthur, Eldon Hatfield, Lyle Blakeley, Wesley Langemak, Paul Jones, Floyd
Neff, Willis Decker, Brooks Gabriel, Paul Mabie and Chester Hurd have passed the examination to enter
governmental radio reserve service and will soon go to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. The young men have taken
the federal oath for four years, and if peace should be declared before the end of the period they may return to
civil pursuits, but be subject to fifteen days camp service yearly with pay for that period. There are three
companies to a signal corps—wire company, which handles ground phones, a wireless company and an
outpost company. One-third of a company have to be telegraph operators and all members carry small guns.
80 Years Ago (1927): The workmen of the City Water and Light Commission who have been working on the
new power and light line west of this city, will almost complete their work this week in setting poles and stringing
the cable on the new light and power line that the Wisconsin Railroad Commission recently gave them the
power to build. This line will leave the city on West Liberty Street running west and then north past Henry
Porter’s and Orrie Steele’s to the Evansville County Line road, then down the county line and west to W. G.
Patterson’s where, for the present it will end. This line will give light and power to eleven farmers to start with,
and it is expected that several more will come in as soon as it is shown that the line is a success. The farmers
along the lines which will be served are Floyd Steele, Henry Porter, Orrie Steele, August Ringhand, Mrs.
Earnest Ringhand, Potter Porter, John Golz, Oscar Brunsell, Peter Rasmussen, Job Miles and W. G. Patterson.
70 Years Ago (1937): The suffleboard court at the city park will be completed and ready for use next week, it
was announced by R. J. Antes, WPA superintendent who is in charge of the city park project. The shuffleboard
court completion will round out the program being followed by the WPA under the plans drawn by the Lions club
to make the city park an all-around recreation center. Already completed and ready for dedication is the
bandstand, tennis courts have been put in; new walks and fountains and planting of additional attractive
shrubbery and trees and new walks are constantly being worked on; and the baseball diamond and bathing
beach are in excellent condition for recreation seekers.
60 Years Ago (1947): Extensive plans and preparations are being made in Evansville for the second annual
4th of GI celebration to be held here in Leota Park Friday and Saturday, July 4 and 5. Harry Roderick, Jr.,
chairman of the event has announced that a full program is being planned. Among the activities will be a street
parade, fireworks, free exhibits and acts, an air show, games of skill, ball games, water sports and wrestling
matches. The following committee chairman have been named: Lee Richardson, food stands; Richard
Williams and Edward Culver, refreshment stands; Walter Nitcher, publicity and booster run; Bernie Christensen,
ball games; Phil D. Pearsall, street parade; and Burton Janes, exhibits; Harold Brunsell, free attractions;
Robert Cain, wrestling show; William H. Bewick, games of skill; Ben Green, tents and grounds; Kenneth A. Ellis,
air show; John R. Kennedy and Morton Batty, finance; and Norman Bone, fireworks.
50 Years Ago (1957): Harold W. Fenrick, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Fenrick, Rte. 2, was among the top
ranking seniors at Beloit College annual honors day convocation. He is a member of Phi Beta Kappa. He also
was awarded the Danforth fellowship, the Walter S. Haven chemistry prize and the American Institute of
Chemists award.
60 Years Ago (1967): Mr. and Mrs. George L. Kelly will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary on Thursday,
June 15 at a family dinner at the Chalet, Brodhead. On the following Sunday, June 18, they will be guests of
honor in their home at 328 South Madison Street, Evansville, at a dinner for relatives to be given by their
children. Margaret Mary Meredith and George Kelly were married June 15, 1942, in St. Paul’s Catholic Church,
Evansville. Mr. Kelly is employed at Fisher Body, Janesville. They have a son, George, a sophomore at
Whitewater State University and two daughters, Kay, a secretary at Baker Manufacturing Company, and Ann, a
senior at Evansville High School.
30 Years Ago (1977): Since the passing of J. C. McKenna, former Evansville School Superintendent, many
people have expressed the desire to perpetuate the memory of Evansville’s outstanding leader in education.
Suggestions were made at the Evansville Education Association that one of our schools be named the J. C.
McKenna School in his honor. Richard Krake, Evansville artist and instructor, has expressed a desire to create
a plaque or relief sculpture of Mr. McKenna to commemorate his accomplishments if one of the buildings were
so designated. Mr. McKenna’s office as superintendent for 27 years (1934-1961) is our present middle school
office. Our new high school was built during his regime. Upon his retirement as Superintendent, Mr. McKenna
was persuaded by the school board to serve as the district’s first business manager. He served in this capacity
in the new high school from 1961-1964.
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20 Years Ago (1987): Ralph and Angie Hall, who have owned and operated the Evansville Greenhouse the
past 13 years, are turning over the operation to Ron and Jane Pierce on July 1. The Pierces, lifetime
Evansville residents, bring with them years of business experience in the Evansville area. The Halls are
assisting with the orderly transfer of all phases of the business to assure an even transition without disruption
of services. As is customary when floral businesses are sold the selling florist assists the new owner for a year,
through major holidays.
10 years ago (1997): Scholarship winners at presentation June 3rd were Luke Williams, Ericka Crans, Sara
Doering, Jolene Braucher, Jeremy May, Phillip Farberg, Amanda Krumwiede, Joseph Knudtson, Angela Tesch,
Brieanna Shippee, Shawn Heider, Justin George, Josh Weigand, Angela Grandt, Emily Benson, Angie
Maynard, Sarah Vannoy, Amanda Miller, Mark Larson, Mitchell Illichmann, Carey Cole, Dawn Malterer, April
Burkhalter, Edward Turner, Kierstan Goggin, Kelly Albright, Jay Marin, Beth Piper, and Emily Skinner. Beth
Piper was the Salutatorian and Mitchell Illichmann, Valedictorian.
In Review
Third Week of June 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): There have been enrolled upon the Seminary books during the present term ninety-
nine students. The largest number of any Spring term, for years.
130 Years Ago (1877): The past few days have been very favorable for transplanting tobacco, and those who
are fortunate enough in having plants of proper size, have improved the opportunity. Among the first I have
seen is 3 acres of E. D. Barnard, and 6 ½ acres raised by Mr. Albert Fessenden upon the farm of Geo. W.
Dibble, Esq., all of which are looking very fine. This is the earliest transplanting of tobacco ever known in this
state.
120 Years Ago (1887): Foremen of the two fire companies received their speaking trumpets, Saturday,
purchased from the avails of the Fireman’s Supper, gotten up by the ladies. They are beauties, triple plated
silver and cost $18 each. The presentation occasion has not been made public yet.
110 Years Ago (1897): There will be a party of pleasure seekers leave Evansville in a special car for
California. The party will not leave the car from the time it pulls out of the station here until it reaches San
Francisco. Among those who have already decided to go are Mr. and Mrs. A. Eager, Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Boyd,
Mr. and Mrs. N. Winston, Mesdames Helen Winston, A. Axtell, Wm. Drummond, Anna Soverhill; Miss Maggie
Gillies, Mabel Alsop, and Messrs I. J. Porter, J. P. Porter, E. Blakeley. There are a few who are yet undecided
as to their plans but without doubt the entire coach will be filled with our citizens and we bespeak a delightful
trip for them.
100 Years Ago (1907): Cooksville: There will be a box sociable at the church basement Friday evening for the
benefit of the poor in Norway who are needing relief. Rev. I. H. Johansan of Stoughton, with the choir of the
congregation will be present and entertain the people with music and speaking in both languages.
90 Years Ago (1917): Between 800 and 900 people enjoyed the military ball given by the W. R. C. at the
Garden Canning Company’s new plant last night. Prior to the dance, Biel’s lady orchestra gave a fine concert.
The proceeds, after all expenses are paid, will be given to soldiers, old and young. While the corps was not
able to render a report this morning, the gross receipts are said to be about $230, and as the public, as well as
the canning company, was liberal in giving support free of charge, it is thought the expenses will not exceed
$30. The affair was a complete success in every respect. [Note: the canning company was located on the
grounds of today’s Varco-Pruden offices and plant.]
80 Years Ago (1927): Cards are out announcing the marriage of Miss Ida Julseth, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Chris Julseth to Harvey Brunsell, at the Cooksville Lutheran Church, Tuesday, June 28. Both of these young
people are well known and liked all over the town of Porter and there will be a large attendance at the wedding.
70 Years Ago (1937): Among those who attended the ninth annual reunion of the Johnson-Bovre family at
Cambridge Sunday were Borger Hanson and children, Daryle, Borger Jr., and Joan, Evansville; and Mr. and
Mrs. Pedro Johnson and sons Curtis and Kermit, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bovre and children, James, Robert, and
Jean of Porter. Mr. and Mrs. Pedro Johnson were elected officers.
60 Years Ago (1947): Kenneth Morrison, 29, Evansville received a bullet through his side Sunday afternoon
while picking asparagus at the south edge of the Evansville city limits. According to a report made to the Rock
County Sherriff’s Department by Evansville Police Chief Orvin Nimmo, the bullet came from a .22 caliber pistol
fired by Fred Macart, 20, also of Evansville. Nimmo said Macart and his brother-in-law, “Billie” Reese, 14, were
trying out the pistol which Macart had just purchased. Macart was shooting at birds, tin cans, and other targets
and started pumping lead into a clump of bushes near a railroad track when Morrison appeared from behind
the undergrowth. He told the youths he had been shot but was able to return to his home. The shooting victim
was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital, Madison, where the slug was removed. The bullet had pierced his side just
above the belt and was lodged one-quarter inch from his kidney. Chief Nimmo said Macart was not being held
pending further investigation.
50 Years Ago (1957): City Council meeting: Bids were again discussed on the digging of 1,800 feet of water
main ditch in the Brzezinski Addition and Alderman Bennett moved and Alderman Spratler, Jr., seconded that
the bid be awarded to Francis E. Cook on his low bid of $.65 per foot upon his furnishing the city with a
performance bond and upon his failure to furnish such said bond, the bid be awarded to the next lowest
bidder. Motion carried by roll call vote.
40 Years Ago (1967): Although at 9 a.m. Saturday newspaper reporters were told that everything was under
control on rain-swollen Lake Leota, during the early morning hours there was evidence that the small spillway
leading from Lake Leota into Allen Creek in the lower park, might give away completely. Police Chief Richard
Luers discovered the danger at about 2 a.m. as he was driving through the park on a routine check. He
immediately alerted the entire police force when the water in the lake pushed to a critical point. The flood gates
were opened to relieve the pressure on the dam. Early this week, officials stated that the lake may not be
completely drained to repair the crack in the spillway. That section has been sandbagged until an estimate of
the damage can be made. Before waters began receding at 4 a.m., a number of basements were inundated
and equipment in Leota Park was floating away to be smashed against the Main Street bridge over Allen’s
Creek. At crest stage, handrails atop the dam were entirely submerged as was a footbridge in the park. Only
the chimneys on fireplaces in the park remained visible. Waters pushed across the Pruden Products parking
lot to the sandbagged doors of the plant. The city disposal plant was inundated. Waters rose to a depth which
prevented traffic to the Baker Manufacturing plant. The personnel office and foundry at the latter firm were
flooded.
30 Years Ago (1977): Father Joseph Brechtl left Evansville this week, after serving as pastor of St. Paul’s
Catholic Church for the past nine years. Following a leave of absence, Father Brechtl will begin work in
September as co-pastor of St. Catherine’s Church in Granville, North Milwaukee. He said the bishop assigned
him a term of two years to assist Father Arthur Baertlein in ministering to the 2000 families in St. Catherine’s
Church. “I enjoyed the people of this community and I will not be forgetting them,” Father Brechtl said. “I will be
back here occasionally to see good friends.” Assuming the pastorate at St. Paul’s this week is Rev. Thomas C.
Lourim. Father Lourim has been pastor at St. Rose Catholic Church in Brodhead since 1973. He originally
from Beloit and graduated from Beloit college. Lourim, 65, has served at several parishes throughout
Wisconsin, including two years at Jefferson and 18 years at Mazomanie. He is presently the moderator of the
Madison Diocese Council of Catholic women.
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20 Years Ago (1987): Some Evansville residents felt the earthquake on Wednesday evening of last week and
other were completely oblivious of the situation. The quake, registering 5.0 on the Richter scale, occurred at 6:
50 p.m. The tremor was felt from Minnesota to West Virginia and from Canada to Tennessee. The Epicenter
of the quake was in Lawrenceville, Illinois. Only one minor injury was reported. Seismologists are predicting a
devastating tremor in the Midwest before the year 2,000. E. Eric Jones, Exec. Dir. Of the Central U. S.
Earthquake Consortium, predicted “it will be ugly.”
10 years ago (1997): Kristin Haakenson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Haakenson, was elected to serve as a
“State FFA Officer” for the 1997-98 school year. Kristin competed against more than 70 of the top youth
leaders in the state for the elite position of State FFA Officer and will now represent Wisconsin’s FFA members
at local, state and national activities. Kristin continued a state leadership run from Evansville, being elected as
the third State FFA Officer from the local chapter. Previous State Officers were her brother, Pete (1995-96),
Stacy Crull (1994-95) and Terry Johnson (1973-74.)
In Review
Fourth Week of June 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The Annual Meeting of the Trustees and stockholders will meet at the Seminary.
Wednesday afternoon at 3 o’clock. All are invited to be present. Remember Dr. Steele, President of Lawrence
University, will lecture at the Seminary Chapel this Tuesday evening. Ex. Gov. Lewis will lecture on Wednesday
evening at the same place.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Levi Leonard and wife, who have been spending a month or two among the haunts
and purlieus of Dakota, returned from their pleasant trip Wednesday morning. Levi’s commanding figure
always casts a welcome shadow upon our streets. They report Evansville people, Mr. J. A. Pettigrew’s family in
particular, as enjoying an abundance of Dakota’s healthful climate.
120 Years Ago (1887): The annual school meeting will be held in Wood & Kendall’s hall on Tuesday the 5th of
July, Monday being a legal holiday. The object of holding the annual meeting in a hall is to afford more room to
accommodate the expected congregation consequent upon the women suffrage measure more than any
unusual interest connected with the school meeting. A clerk is to be elected and as has been our practice, a
librarian; reports of the superintendents and school officers made and money raised for the next year’s school
work. It is well to give the meeting a good attendance.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. C. T. Noyes exhibited some of the largest strawberries at this office this morning
that we ever saw, the largest measuring 4 ½ by 5 ½ inches in circumference; they were of the Enhance Shaw
variety and grown in his own garden.
100 Years Ago (1907): Some of our auto-fiend ladies who started for the Eastern Star “blow-out” at Brodhead
realize that the horse is still superior to the auto, at least they should think so, when one auto only reached one-
half the distance to Brodhead and still remains in the public highway; another auto load lost its way, and
perhaps it is still trying to find the neighboring city; still another auto load reached the park just before luncheon
was served, having departed from this city in ample time to reach there long before the coveted banquet was
spread, but alas! their chairs were vacant. Undoubtedly they did justice to the later spread. The ladies who
made the trip with good old horse flesh enjoyed both spreads and spent the day in the entertainment that had
been provided for them by their neighbor sisters.
90 Years Ago (1917): Very Pretty Home Wedding On Wednesday. Wednesday, June 26, at 4 p.m., Miss
Helen Brunsell was united in marriage to Rex Buckeridge, at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Carl
Brunsell, of this city. The officiating pastor was the Rev. L. H. Hegge, Lutheran minister of Stoughton. A sister
of the bride, Miss Emma Brunsell, acted as bridesmaid and was escorted by Will Buckeridge, of Terre Haute,
Ind., as best man. The ring was carried by Mary Jeanette Buckeridge. The bride has been employed for three
years in the Industrial Commission at Madison, and the groom is a popular teacher in the Beloit High School.
80 Years Ago (1927): The late William Gillies, of Evansville, was born in Rutland, Dane County, February 15,
1854. His childhood life was spent in the town of Union, where he attended the district school and the
Evansville Seminary. In early manhood, he taught in the schools of the County, and in 1875, he was married to
Julia Hosley, of Union, who passed away in 1910. Three children survive, Maud Gillies Spooner, Lyman and
Milo, a son Scott having died in 1916. Mr. Gillies is survived by four grandchildren; two sisters, Miss Elizabeth
Gillies and Miss Margaret Gillies, both of Evansville and a brother, James Gillies, Evansville. In 1895, the family
left their farm at Union and since that time, Evansville has been his home. Mr. Gillies lived a life which counted
for the better life of the community. His best was given to his God and to his fellow men.
70 Years Ago (1937): Twenty cans of northern pike were planted in the waters of Lake Leota Monday morning
under the direction of R. J. Antes, member of the county conservation committee, who picked up the pike at
Janesville from Warden Eric Moir. Very few of the pickerel fingerlings were lost in the planting in Lake Leota
Monday, and it is hoped that the conservation measure will bring the lake back to its former fish fertility.
60 Years Ago (1947): Attorneys Donald F. Gallagher and William H. Bewick are announcing that they have
formed a partnership and will maintain their offices in the Union Bank and Trust Co. building on North Madison
Street. Mr. Gallagher was graduated from the University of Wisconsin law school in 1927 and was admitted to
the bar the same year. He has practiced law in Evansville since 1929 and was formerly associated with
Attorney R. M. Richmond. Since 1934 he has been city attorney with the exception of the time he spent in the
armed forces. Mr. Bewick, a 1941 graduate of the University of Wisconsin law school, was admitted to the bar
after graduation. Prior to entering the service he was associated with Attorney Raymond C. Fett in Janesville.
Since he was discharged from the armed forces he has maintained an office here. The partnership will be
known as Gallagher and Bewick.
50 Years Ago (1957): Michael Sorkin and John Ganoung were the Evansville representatives at the Badger
Boys State recently. Their trip to this event was sponsored by the Legion and the Lions Club.
40 Years Ago (1967): Many Evansville residents, unaware of the installation of the new Civil Defense outdoor
warning siren last Thursday afternoon were startled Monday night as the new siren was sounded for the first
time. A 3-warning siren—a storm alert which will be a steady 3 to 5 minute tone; an attack warning which will be
a wavering 3 to 5 minute tone; and a fire siren which will be a hi-lo 3 to 5 minute tone was erected at the side of
the City Hall. The generosity of the following is acknowledged for their donations of: Pruden Products Co. for
the angle iron to support the motor; The Wisconsin Gas Co., for the length of pipe to hold the siren; Helgesen’s
Crane Services of Janesville and Bob Helgesen for the invaluable use of the crane to hoist it into position; and
Gordon Milbrant for the final welding services at the motor base. The speed of modern weapons which has
sharply decreased the time available for pre-attack public survival action and the use of the outdoor warning
sirens to warn of approaching tornados moved the Civil Defense directors to agree upon the uniform test
schedule at 12 o’clock noon on the first Wednesday of each month.
30 Years Ago (1977): Lewis Peckham, who has been a businessman in Evansville since 1945, will step down
from the top spot in Peckham Electric Service as of July 1. He will be succeeded by Ron Buttchen, who has
been working for him for the past seven years, as the business changes to Buttchen Electric Service.
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20 Years Ago (1987): Local author and park historian, Keith Williams has written a detailed and interesting
history of the Evansville Parks. The book entitled “Evansville City Parks, 1883-1996” is available at the Eager
Free Public Library. The author has devoted many hours to the research of this history, contributed many
hours serving on the park board, as well as his talents and time for the beautification of the park.
10 years ago (1997): The Evansville City Council has approved a Farmer’s Market in downtown Evansville,
which will provide residents with an opportunity to purchase fresh produce in an open market atmosphere. It is
anticipated that this type of market will boost downtown shopping. FFA Advisor Gary Burkhalter is coordinating
the project. Plans are to begin the Market on Saturday, July 12 and continue every Saturday until Oct. 12.
The area will be either behind the Blue Cross/Grange Building or West Main Street. Items for sale must be
grown or gathered in south central Wisconsin. Produce includes fresh vegetables and herbs, fresh or dried
fruits. No frozen or previously frozen fruits or vegetables allowed. All produce must be sold off tables, truck
beds or tailgates. Additional produce must be in boxes or baskets. Miscellaneous flowers, plants, eggs, honey,
bread will be allowed. Eggs must be candled, graded and packed in cartons bearing producer’s name.
In Review
First Week of July 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): We understand that Mr. W. Winston is about to open the old hotel known as the
Evansville House, as a place for public entertainment. Mr. W. claims a lineal descent from a good hotel keeper
and we doubt not that he will honor his pedigree in this respect. The public will understand that it is to be a
temperance house without our mentioning the fact. [The Evansville House was located on the northeast corner
of East Main and Union Streets, the current site of The Station.]
130 Years Ago (1877): The wind Friday night seemed to have a particular course of its own, and a way of
doing business not usual in these parts. Mr. David Johnson, of Union, informs us that it blew the roof off the
school house in his district, scattering it in minute pieces into fields a long distance from its original location.
The brick walls remained almost intact. The force of the wind was not particularly severe at short distances
either way from the school house.
120 Years Ago (1887): A. S. Baker was canvassing the town a little the other day for subscribers to an electric
light plant. He wants at least 400 subscribers to start with. He met with pretty good encouragement, we
understand.
110 Years Ago (1897): The stone work is well along on the new school building, and the brick work will soon
commence. The furnace is being put in position in the basement of the new school building. Isaac Brink went
to Madison, Monday, on business connected with the stone work on the new school building.
100 Years Ago (1907): Among the many new fashion colors for house painting is what is termed a copper
brown. Mayor Pearsall is one of the first householders in this city to adopt that color and he is having his
residence repainted with this, and trimmings are white. It makes a very rich coloring. Fisher Bros, are doing
the work. [Note: Mayor Charles J. Pearsall lived at 227 West Church Street.]
90 Years Ago (1917): Lester Harry Krause, a son of August and Alvina Krause, who live about six miles west
of Evansville, was born September 30, 1910. Few were his years to bring sunshine to his parental home and
surroundings. For a year, little Lester was a sufferer. Heart trouble set in, which caused him great agony and
often brought a dark cloud over him and others in the family. His chair was vacated shortly after dinner, June
27, 1917, at the age of six years, eight months and twenty-seven days. Funeral services were in the Friedens
Evangelical Church, Friday afternoon and cemetery near the church, the Rev. G. E. Zellmer officiating. He
leaves to mourn his early departure bereaved parents, four sisters, three brothers.
80 Years Ago (1927): Judging from the way people flock to the Evansville Tourist park and to the city park for
rest, recreation and amusement, the park, seems to be much more appreciated by people from a distance than
it is at home. Lately there has been some prominent people staying at the park, among them being the
president of the General Electric Company, of Chicago, who comes, and stays several days at a time. Tourists
state that all the camp now needs is a few cabins which can be rented by tourists, many of which prefer them to
hotels and which are much preferable to tents in case of storm or rain. While our little lake and park do not
seem to be appreciated by many of our own people, the writer wants to make a prediction that before many
years have passed that some large corporation of Chicago or some other city will pick up some land near this
lake and park and make a summer resort of it. There are still too many in Evansville who sneer at “The Pond”
and wail because the lake cost a few thousand dollars.
70 Years Ago (1937): Another of the varied programs which have been greatly enjoyed by Wednesday night
audiences at the city park, will be presented next Wednesday by the city band under the direction of Russell L.
Moberly. Since the construction of the new bandstand, the park has become more of an entertainment center
than it was previously. The program will include a cornet duet by Julia Williams and Maxine Olsen and readings
by Marjean Moore.
60 Years Ago (1947): Kenneth Devlin, Rowland Straka, Roger Wood and Betty Lou Lehnherr, who
represented Evansville at the Badger Boys State camp at Ripon and the Badger Girls State camp at Madison
have returned to their homes here.
50 Years Ago (1957): Mrs. Harold Jones and Mrs. William Blair spoke to the City Council regarding the cabins
in the park that both the Girl Scouts and the Legion share. After discussing all the cabins, Alderman Walter
Spratler, Jr. moved and Alderman Ralph Bennett seconded that cabins No. 2 and No. 4 be given to the Girl
Scouts at no expense to the City and details on the sharing with the Legion could be worked out later. Mayor
R. B. Townsend reported that Mrs. Hannah Sorkin had asked for the use of a cabin for the Red Cross and
Cabin No. 5 was given to the Red Cross for storage.
40 Years Ago (1967): Robert Helgesen, co-owner of the sales firm of Helgesen-Pruden Sales, Janesville
received an outstanding sales award for 1966 from Pruden Products Company District Supervisor, James
Brantner. Helgesen-Pruden Sales has offices in Janesville, Dodgeville, Wisconsin and Grand Rapids,
Michigan. Donald and Robert Helgesen are co-owners of Helgesen-Pruden Sales. The firm is franchised to
sell Pruden structures in Rock, Jefferson, Green, Lafayette, Grant and Iowa Counties.
30 Years Ago (1977): Positioning a future State Highway 14 bypass into the Evansville area was a dominate
theme at the public hearing Tuesday night on the proposed land use map of the city and its 1 ½ mile extra-
territorial zoning area scheduled for insertion in the city’s master plan. Residents and landowners along
Territorial Road which runs northeast of Evansville, had the most questions because the township road has
been proposed as the future route of the highway by-pass. They hinted concern about their ability to subdivide
and build homes in the face of a master plan provision stating that development along Territorial Road be
avoided until a definite highway route is mapped out. There was also comment that placing the route that far
away from the city will be a deterrent to business prosperity. And in the waning moments of the hearing there
was a plea from a Union Township representative to the Extra-Territorial Committee that a bypass route be
agreed upon now or the state will arbitrarily choose its own route when it decides to go ahead with the
construction. An 80 to 100 ft right of way is generally required for such a road and Phil Blazkowski, Rock
County Planner, said that new buildings cannot be constructed within 100 feet of the road. Blazkowski said the
Territorial route was chosen in lieu of four other alternatives because other corridors presented engineering
difficulties and the grade of Territorial Road should be easier to work with.
.
20 Years Ago (1987): Robbie Peters of Evansville went thru astronaut training activities recently, leading to
two simulated missions in space at U. S. Space Academy, Level I at the Space and Rocket center in Huntsville,
AL. The simulated missions used a realistic trainer mockup of the Space Shuttle orbiter, the European Space
Agency Spacelab and a space station.
10 years ago (1997): Magnolia’s 4-H Queen is Amy Hatlen, daughter of Doug and Vonnie Hatlen. She is a ten-
year member of Magnolia 4-H. Mark Larson, Magnolia 4-H King, is the son of Ed and Barb Larson. He is a
nine-year member of Magnolia 4-H.
In Review
Second Week of July 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): We intended to have called the attention of our readers before this to the Reaping and
Mowing Machines of John P. Manny and for some weeks past has been on exhibition. Mr. Hiram Bullard is the
agent for Union, Porter, and Magnolia, although commencing to sell quite late in the season, he informs us that
such are the universal merits of the machine that he has sold more than of all other machines held for sale in
the place. Separate parts of the machine can be had of the agent, to replace broken or defective pieces at
any time.
130 Years Ago (1877): The Tornado. At a few minutes past four Sunday morning, the wind began to blow and
the rain came down in torrents, mingled with heavy masses of ice, that rattled against the panes in a fearful
manner. Going out after the storm had abated, the whole country presented a devastated appearance.
Cornfields lay flat upon the ground, shade trees were twisted off like twigs, fences were turned over, and
chimneys blown down and scattered about fearfully. The chimney on the bank building blew over upon the roof
of Pullen & Wilder’s store, smashing in seven rafters, making a breach that emitted a flood of water, running
through the ceiling and drenching goods and everything in its way. In the country, the damage was much more
severe. Several houses were unroofed, and scarcely a wind mill of any kind is left standing on the prairie east
or west. Mr. Philip Cadwallader’s barn was turned some eight feet from its foundation. Mr. W. H. Johnson, of
Union, thinks that $500 will not repair the damage done to his crops and premises. In some places the hail cut
fields of oats badly, others only driven to the ground. Corn was left in pretty much the same manner, but what
was not entirely broken off will rise again. Nearly every farmer suffered more or less by injury to his buildings,
or by the hail to his crops. There was no accident to life or limb that we have heard of.
120 Years Ago (1887): The annual school meeting Tuesday night attracted a little more than its usual
attention, probably from the fact that the ladies would be there to vote for the first time, under the partial woman
suffrage act. The recommendations of the board adopted, including $3,000 for school expenses for the
current year. There are in the treasury now to run the school until taxes are collected, $2,038.44. Allen S.
Baker was elected clerk and Fred Wilder was elected librarian. The free book system, the district was asked to
vote on, was voted down by the majority, as in our judgment it ought to be. There is as much sense in the
school district furnishing food to eat and clothing to wear, as books to study. The ladies seemed to
concentrate their interest chiefly upon the librarian and the choice of librarian is a good one. There are
different expressions as to where and how it should be kept—in the Y.M.C.A. reading room or in a public book
store. [Note: library books were available for public use many years before the Eager Free Public Library was
built. The school district voters were responsible for funding the public library and electing a librarian.]
110 Years Ago (1897): We should all take pride in the building of new school buildings and elevating our
educational institutions to the highest point possible; for what better purposes can we use our money, and
greater legacy leave to posterity.
100 Years Ago (1907): The iron beams, girders and truss frames for the library building arrived Wednesday,
and work on that building will soon commence again.
90 Years Ago (1917): The old custom of using the road side for pasture is being revived this year to a
considerable extent. Increased amounts of land put under cultivation, the high rentals being asked for pasture,
and the general and advanced price of livestock feeds are all contributing causes. “Watching cows” is one of
the ways in which the children can do their bit toward helping win the war.
80 Years Ago (1927): Albert C. Holmes last week received word of his appointment as postmaster for
Evansville. Mr. Holmes has been appointed as acting postmaster taking charge of the office August 1, his
official appointment and confirmation to take place after congress gets in session. Having always stood by the
Coolidge faction of the Republican Party in this state, Mr. Holmes, according to political ethics, is entitled to the
position and will doubtless fill it to the satisfaction of all. As a college graduate and a man with abundant
business experiences acquired through his experience as one of the department managers and credit man of
the Grange Store, Mr. Holmes is ably qualified to fill the position to the satisfaction of our people and patrons of
the office.
70 Years Ago (1937): The rise and fall of a major industry here was brought to mind this week by the tearing
down of portions of the D. E. Wood Butter Company plant now owned by the Cudahy company, which was
begun last week by the Evansville construction company. From humble beginnings, the plant became one of
the four largest of its type in the United States, with shipment of its products to many corners of the globe, and
then suddenly declined when legislation was passed in the state as state law placed a tax on oleo margarine
manufacture. A tax of ten cents per pound for oleo made in Wisconsin made it unprofitable to manufacture here.
60 Years Ago (1947): The Evansville Community fire truck responded to a call from Union about 3 p.m.
Wednesday when a small truck owned by Hatlen Bros. caught fire and was almost destroyed by the blaze,
which was caused by back-firing. .
50 Years Ago (1957): In the election held prior to the annual meeting of the school board, Clark Prudhon and
Robert Turner were re-elected to the school board and Rev. John Walker was elected to it. The meeting voted
by a 70 to 3 margin to have school board elections held in conjunction with the regular spring elections in
future years. Following considerable discussion, the school board was instructed to get plans and cost figures
on the possible construction of an ag shop at the school.
40 Years Ago (1967): Four large trees were removed last week from the city hall campus to make room for the
new fire house which is to be built of steel erected by the Helgesen Sales of Janesville. The company states
that Evansville labor will be used wherever possible. The cost of the contract is $40,967. It is expected that the
building program will start at an early date.
30 Years Ago (1977): Two 7-year old children with matches were the cause of a fire in an upstairs storage
area in the Central Building on the corner of East Main and Maple Streets. Evansville firemen fought the fire
for 3 hours, entering with gas masks, and contained the fire in the western half of the building. There were no
injuries reported. Byrl L. Rowley, owner of the Central Bar on the ground floor, said he attempted to use a fire
extinguisher when about a dozen tavern patrons smelled smoke coming out of a rear stairway, but called the
fire department when he discovered the fire was out of control. Windows were broken to let smoke escape
from the structure. According to the police report the children had set pieces of cotton on fire with stick
matches and became scared when flames went out of their control. [Note: this is the Baker Block at 101 East
Main.]
.
20 Years Ago (1987): Members of the Senior Citizen’s Committee representing the city, met recently at the
Baker Block proposed site for their Center. Thus far $1,300 has been spent and wiring is in at the center,
located in the lower level of the newly renovated Baker Block on East Main Street. Volunteer labor has carried
the project thus far. Lee Winch, chairman of the group, notes that there is a need to buy insulation and install
the same. There will be a need to purchase paneling, vinyl and carpeting, and kitchen and bathroom fixtures.
The room measures 50 ft. x 100 ft. The Senior Citizen Committee includes Ruby Phillips, Lucille Schroeder and
Irene Higginbotham.
10 years ago (1997): On parade in Evansville on July 4 were members of the newly formed Community
Theater group. Members in the parade included Megan Stewart, Jeff Farnsworth, Sue Woulfe and Heidi
Sendelbach.
In Review
Third Week of July 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The Public School money for the Town of Union has been received and apportioned to
the several school districts in town. The total amount is $2,720, and there are 719 scholars in the town which
gives 46 cents to each scholar.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. James Wadsworth lost two children last week from scarlet fever--one was buried
Thursday, the other Saturday. The oldest was six years old. Funeral from the F. W. Baptist church. DIED.
Willis Irwin and Charles Lynn, aged respectively six and four years, children of Mr. and Mrs. James S.
Wadsworth. The former died on Thursday morning, the latter on Saturday morning, July 12th and 14th, 1877,
of scarlet fever. The bereaved parents have the hearty condolence of an extended circle of friends, in this
their dark hour of affliction.
120 Years Ago (1887): Our people will be called on soon to say by vote whether they will have electricity to
light our streets or the kerosene we are now using. We have 39 lamps in all and they extend from one end of
town to the other, a distance of more than a mile, and are lit at an expense of $325 a year, including lighter’s
salary. It is estimated that the same number of electric lights will cost us $400, $75 more than the oil. The
kerosene lamps are so placed along the walks in the shade of the over hanging trees, as to impair much of
their otherwise usefulness. The electric lights would be placed, or suspended, amid street, and with their
reflecting power, would give us much better light than we now have. The Village Board do not like to take any
responsibility in the matter and will ask for a public expression by a vote, soon. The details of the plant have
not been consummated, but the agent will be here shortly to talk up the matter with parties who will run the
machine and explain any detail connected with public and private lights. Cogitate upon the matter and be
ready to give a decision when called upon.
110 Years Ago (1897): Advertisement: Evansville Seminary, a day and boarding school of high academic
grade. We seek to combine thorough instruction with practical piety. Four Regular Courses, Classical,
Theological, Latin-German, Scientific. Instruction given in common school and commercial branches, including
bookkeeping and commercial law, drawing, vocal and instrumental music also taught. Work Satisfactory.
Terms Moderate. For Catalogue, address Rev. A. L. Whitcomb, Evansville, Wisconsin. Fall Term Begins
September 1st, 1897.
100 Years Ago (1907): Miss Lulu Van Patten went to Elgin Saturday to visit a friend, and from there goes to
Chicago where she will take a three-weeks’ course in an art institute. For the past two years Miss Van Patten
has followed the study of line drawing and has proved very efficient in the work. She used it in her school work
here with success. For the coming school year she will be the instructor in drawing at the Appleton High School.
90 Years Ago (1917): At about six o’clock last Thursday evening the fire department was called out to
extinguish a fire at the Baker Manufacturing Co.’s plant. The fire started in a shaving bin by a spark from the
foundry. The damage amounted to about twenty-five dollars.
80 Years Ago (1927): Sometime ago the Wisconsin Telephone Company leased the building at 8 South
Madison Street, known as the Pioneer building, for its new quarters. The entire building has been remodeled
to meet the requirements of the company. A new concrete floor was laid in the basement, and a hot water
heating plant is being installed. Two partitions on the main floor and one on the second floor were removed to
enlarge the rooms. All work is being done by local people. The general contract for the work was awarded to
James A. Harper, who sublet the heating and plumbing to the hardware department of the Grange Store, the
electric wiring to A. E. Tomlin and Company, painting to George Dell, plastering to John Hanson and the
concrete work to Richard Carson. When the work is finished, the main floor will be used for the business office
and apparatus room. The operating room, locker room and rest room, will be on the second floor. The
basement will be used for storage.
70 Years Ago (1937): A number of old-timers who put in many years of their lives at the D. E. Wood Butter Co.
plant have come to our attention. Amoung them are: F. O. McKinney, who was employed for thirty-two years
by the firm, the last eighteen of which he was engineer. Ernie Clifford, who blew oil for the process butter, and
was in the Wood company employ for twenty or twenty-five years. Charles Theobald, who melted the old butter
for renovating, and was with the company 12 or 14 years. Charley Merrick, who tended to milk on the second
floor used to make the process butter for about 18 years. Frank Roberts, the print wrapper, who also helped
prepare the milk, for about eighteen years. Ray Thompson, head print wrapper, who worked with the company
from the time it started until it closed.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mrs. C. L. Conroy and Harry E. Roderick were reelected members of the Board of
Education at the annual district meeting in the city school auditorium. The former is president of the Board.
Robert Erstad was elected clerk to succeed P. G. Slauson who has held the office for many years, and Howard
Becher was named a board member in place of V. H. Laufenberg. Both Mr. Slauson and Mr. Laufenberg
declined reelection. The session was attended by 55 local citizens. Supt. J. C. McKenna in presenting his
annual report, discussed the possibility and advisability of taking steps to make Evansville a union free high
school. A motion was passed requesting the superintendent and board members to investigate the
proposition. If the rural districts in this locality and the city should decide to take that step it would mean that
farm residents within a radius of about eight or nine miles around Evansville would pay school taxes in
Evansville and the high school tuition for their children would be eliminated. The grade pupils would not be
affected in any way by the change.
50 Years Ago (1957): The mayor, R. B. Townsend, with the water and light department was given authority to
go ahead with details of lighting the swimming pool. Present plans call for two 50-foot poles to be erected, with
90,000 watts of light on each. The mayor is also to work out details for excavating for water and sewer
connections for the new pool.
40 Years Ago (1967): Douglas Hull made a “hole in one” on the Evansville Golf Course recently. The feat was
accomplished on hole No. 8, which is 211 yards and it is the first time for a hole in one on No. 8 since the
course was opened here three years ago. Hull was laying a match with Norman Tomlin at the time of his
successful shot. A trophy was presented to Hull by Clint Erickson, through the courtesy of Straka’s Jewelry
Store.
30 Years Ago (1977): The Baker Manufacturing Co. has purchased the inventory, equipment, engineering and
marketing assets of the Haight Pump Co., Milwaukee, manufacturers of positive displacement rotary gear
pumps, according to an announcement this week by Financial Vice-president G. A. Manke. As a result of the
July 1 purchase Baker now has four major divisions, Monitor Division, specializing in water systems; Custom
Division, producing gray iron and ductile castings, welding, fabricating, machining and hot dip galvanizing;
Wholesale Division, providing plumbing, heating, cooling and accessory items, through eight distributors in the
United States and one in Canada; and Haight Division, manufacturer of positive displacement rotary gear
pumps.
.
20 Years Ago (1987): Among the approximately 450 to graduate from Blackhawk Technical Institute recently
were Ann M. Bennett and Rita Spinhirne, both of Evansville, Associate Degree nursing; Susan Sanner,
Brooklyn, child care services; Wendy Wickersham, Evansville, clerk typist; and Tom Hunt, Evansville, welding.
10 years ago (1997): Rob Peters and Tim Courtier will participate in this weekend’s Monona Terrace Grand
Opening. Featured with the Wisconsin Singers, Peters and Courtier will perform at 12 noon on Saturday, July
19 in the William T. Evjue Gardens.
In Review
Fourth Week of July 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The grading around the Methodist Church was done Saturday last, by some of the
Society, who also laid the sidewalk in front of the church, in a very neat and tasty manner. The piles of board,
staging poles, old mortar beds, were all removed and we hardly knew the place on going to church Sunday
morning. The carpenters are now at work putting in the seats and finishing up the main audience room.
Considerable work is yet to be done before the house is completed, but we understand that the finances are
such that the work will be completed at an early date.
130 Years Ago (1877): Lawn services in the Seminary campus, Sunday evening, were attended with a
perceptible increase from the previous Sunday evening. There was a much better success in the singing
department than before. The sermon was preached by Rev. Mr. Stowe, M. E. presiding elder of Janesville.
The clergymen present on the stand were Revs. Lathrop, Cole, and Eldredge, of Footville. The sermon was
practical, thoughtful and full of good points. Services will be continued each Sunday evening, commencing at 6
o’clock.
120 Years Ago (1887): The Baker Manufacturing works made a shipment Monday of 25 windmills, 125 large
cylinder pumps, 25 water tanks and 275 brass cylinders. They were consigned to a wholesale firm in Atchison,
Kansas.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. John Burgess, of Parkersburg, Iowa, was an arrival Friday, for a visit with his
daughters, Mrs. Del Bullard and Mrs. Albert Fessenden.
100 Years Ago (1907): The masons started to work on the library building this week, and consequently are as
busy as bees in swarming time. The windows for the auditorium part have been placed in position, and one is
now able to form some idea as to how the building will look. The dressed cut stone, from the New Bedford
quarries in the east, is nearly all arrived, and in fact sufficient material is now on hand to warrant a continued
work till the entire building is completed. From the proposed plans and from the material already shown,
Evansville will have a library of merit and beauty.
90 Years Ago (1917): Bids are requested and will be received for two one room, one story frame temporary
school buildings, to be built on the school property in the city of Evansville, said buildings to be completed by
September 1, 1917. Bids to be directed to Paul Pike Pullen, clerk of joint school district No. 6, of Evansville,
Union and Magnolia. Bids will be opened at the High School building at two o’clock p.m., July 31, 1917. P. P.
Pullen, Clerk. F. A. Baker, Director.
80 Years Ago (1927): The parking space for autos on Saturday nights has become such a serious question of
late, that it will be noticed that several of the side streets are filled on both sides from the overflow from Main
Street. This has been very inconvenient for farmers who have children and who have large bundles, from the
stores to load into their cars at the close of the evening’s trade. A move made this week by the Economy Store
and Herb Durner which will help the matter considerable. The hitching posts have been taken out of the old
Wagon Yard back of the economy and of Durner’s shop and the ground leveled off so that it may be used for
parking purposes. This new parking space will accommodate about seventy-five cars and will be especially
appreciated by those who do their trading at the Economy Store as it is close and handy for them to load in
their groceries and children.
70 Years Ago (1937): Angela Bewick, Julia and Ruth Williams, Betty Brown, Ruth Morrison, Betty Murphy,
Shirley Estes, and Jane Boode accompanied Miss Lou Howland, their piano teacher, to Madison Saturday to
take part in a recital at the Wisconsin School of Music.
60 Years Ago (1947): Two weeks of concentrated study and group practice will culminate Saturday in the all-
state band concert in the University stadium when 225 of the best high school musicians in the state give their
festival performance. Following is a list of the Evansville musicians who will play: Beverly Amidon, clarinet; Ann
Hansen, saxophone; Shannon Ferguson and Donna Hartl, cornets, and Charles Romstad, trombone.
50 Years Ago (1957): Evansville’s annual Tri-County Black and White show last Thursday drew about 350
entries from Rock, Green and Dane counties and was attended by nearly 1,000 people.
40 Years Ago (1967): Miss Judith Elaine Spanton, 109 E. Main Street, Evansville, daughter of Mr. and Mrs.
Kenneth L. Spanton, Rte. 3, Whitewater, formerly of Evansville, became the bride of Donald L. Bratzke, son of
Mr. and Mrs. Lester Bratzke, Rte. 2, Evansville, in a ceremony performed at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 22, in the
Cooksville Lutheran Church, the Rev. Cyril Jandrey read the service at the altar decorated with summer
flowers. The bride, a graduate of the Evansville High School, class of 1965, is employed at the Evansville
Review office and the groom, a 1961 Evansville graduate, is employed at Fisher Body plant in Janesville.
When Mr. and Mrs. Bratzke return from a wedding trip to St. Louis, they will reside at 109 E. Main Street,
Evansville.
30 Years Ago (1977): Mitch Hull of Evansville was in Las Vegas, Nevada for the Junior World Wrestling
Tournament, July 11-16. Mitch, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Malcolm Hull represented the U. S. in the International
tournament wresting on the Greco Roman team. Wrestling at 198 lbs., Mitch took 4th place, the top winning
spot of any American Greco wrestler. Hull won his position on the U. S. team after winning in state and national
wrestling tournaments.
.
20 Years Ago (1987): The 75-car Circus Train pulled into Evansville for a 10 minute layover. The train from
the Circus World Museum in Baraboo was loaded with antique circus wagons. The circus wagons glistened in
the hot July sun. Gov. Tommy Thompson was among the many riding in the passenger car. The children of
Tree House Playschool had a good view from a hay wagon as the Circus Train rolled into Evansville from
Baraboo.
10 years ago (1997): Ann and John Edwards have returned from Dayton, Ohio, where they attended a special
occasion at Wright Patterson Air Field on June 24. Their son Nathan became a Captain and the Edwards had
the honor of pinning on his bars. Nathan is a 1981 graduate of Evansville High School and of the UW-
Madison. He has 14 years of service in the Air Force. While there the Edwards also visited the Air Force
Museum.
In Review
Last Week of July 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): It will be seen by notice elsewhere that the Baptist society of this place are making an
effort to re-paint their Church, and for this purpose the ladies have taken the matter in hand and are going to
get up a supper to be served in the grove at Deacon Ballard’s house, on Main Street. All will agree with us,
that their house needs painting very much, but their pecuniary condition is hardly equal to the improvement
necessary, and now make a demand on the public in this very appropriate manner to aid them. We may expect
a good time, plenty to eat and excellently served, and certainly the price is very low. Come out, you who have
been selling “eagle pennies” for a dime a piece and do a good act, we shall all have the benefit. Benefit
Supper. The Benefit Supper of the Free Will Baptist Ladies’ Mite Society will take place next Thursday evening
(early) Aug.1st., in Deacon Ballard’s garden grove. Supper, $1.25 a couple. Proceeds to be used in painting
their meeting house.
130 Years Ago (1877): We understand that Rev. Mr. Rowley of Darlington, has been called to preside over the
Congregational church here, and will immediately remove his family thither. The ladies of the Congregational
Mite Society have purchased three very excellent chairs for the pulpit of their church, costing nearly $50.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. John Clifford’s house in Magnolia was struck by lightning a week ago during a
heavy rain storm and demolished the chimney, and went through the roof tearing off shingles but doing no
other great amount of damage. It gave the premises a decided sulphurous smell for sometime.
110 Years Ago (1897): George W. Thurman, of Albany, sold a pearl found by Mr. B. T. Andrews, in Bass
Creek back of the Afton mill to Mrs. Cecelia Wallace of Chicago, for $2,000. John Young, a Brodhead landlord,
first bought the pearl of Mr. Andrews for $350, and Mr. Thurman purchased it from Mr. Young.
100 Years Ago (1907): The Misses Daisy Spencer, Blanche Crow and Gertrude Eager returned from their trip
to Yellowstone Park the first of the week. Miss Crow, however, stopped off in Chicago for a few days’ visit in
that city with relatives.
90 Years Ago (1917): Some time during Monday night the office of Brunsell & Fellows was broken into by
yeggmen, who succeeded in rifling the contents of the safe. It is not known whether the safe was locked that
evening, but when the employees reached the office on Tuesday morning the safe was locked and the
contents scattered over the floor. The police have as yet been unable to secure any clue that might lead to the
apprehending of the guilty parties.
80 Years Ago (1927): The season tickets for stockholders of the Evansville Rock County Fair are now at the
State Bank of Evansville, ready for distribution. Mr. and Mrs. Lester Thompson and Mr. and Mrs. Zala Miller are
at Mineral Point today where they are attending the fair and gathering pointers for our own fair next week. The
machinery exhibit promises to outclass anything ever shown before and the auto exhibit will be equal to that of
last season which was fine, to which may be added the hope that the new Ford will be on display, as Mr.
Thompson, the dealer here states that he is doing his best to get one here. There will be a lot of hogs, sheep
and cattle at the Rock County Fair this season, which have never shown at the fair before. Among these is the
fine herd of Jerseys from the farm of J. A. Craig, of Janesville.
70 Years Ago (1937): Members of the Ole Moe family gathered at the Cooksville park Sunday for their second
annual reunion. Included in the gathering were three new members added during the past year: Donald Roy
Kloften, Barbara Fincher, and David Olson. Officers elected were Mrs. Borger Hanson, Evansville, president;
Rudy Hatlevig, Evansville, vice president; Miss Elaine Dahl, Stoughton, secretary; and Miss Selma Kloften,
Chicago, Treasurer. They succeed Helmer Kloften, Gordon Lindquist, Leonard Nelson and Miss Alice Nelson,
last year’s officers.
60 Years Ago (1947): The wind storm of last Saturday night hit Evansville hard, uprooting trees all over the
city and scattering limbs and branches on lawns and in the street. The electric service was badly crippled by
the storm. No one in the city had electricity for more than 12 hours and in several sections the time lengthened
to more than 24 hours. W. W. Waeffler, owner and operator of the Waeffler Frozen Foods states that despite
the fact that the electric service was out of commission 43 hours, there was no damage to the meat in the
lockers. The Antes Press was unable to run Monday because of no electricity to run the presses and linotype
machines. The farmers who use electricity to run their milking machines and to pump water for their stock were
busy doing everything by hand. West Main Street and Second Street became clogged by falling branches and
the local police had a busy time rerouting traffic coming into the city from the west. A large tree had Main
Street completely blocked. The street department truck made numerous trips throughout the city collecting
fallen branches and other trash scattered by the wind.
50 Years Ago (1957): John Kennedy, a familiar figure at the post office here for nearly 40 years retired
Wednesday, July 31. He came to the Evansville post office Feb. 21, 1916, and except for a two-year period in
which he managed newspapers and print shops at Laona and Gillett, has been here ever since. Before coming
to Evansville he had been employed by the Thompson Malted Milk Co. in Waukesha. Oct. 5, 1916, he returned
to Waukesha to marry the former Eveline Bourquin, Marenisco, Mich. Kennedy carried mail here until 1920
when he left the newspaper and printing business. In 1922 he returned to Evansville post office where he has
been since. Kennedy has long been a popular figure in the post office. He started his service here when Alex
Richardson was postmaster and has served under Postmasters Palmer Slauson, Forrest Durner, A. C. Holmes,
Roy Reckord, and R. J. Antes.
40 Years Ago (1967): Mr. and Mrs. Lee George of Brooklyn, announce the engagement and approaching
marriage of their daughter, Vicky, to Mr. Erling Adams, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hal Adams of Blue River. Miss
George attended the University of Wisconsin at Platteville and has taught school the past four years in
Walworth Co. Mr. Adams is employed by Borden Food Company in Boscobel. The wedding will be August 5 at
the Community Methodist Church in Brooklyn.
30 Years Ago (1977): Since the declaration of the Evansville Historic District, the Historic Commission has
concerned itself with the restoration of the District’s downtown area, among other projects. The education
Committee of the Commission applauded the efforts of Roger Berg for his restoration of the former Grange
Store—Legion Lounge in the first block of East Main Street in the Grainery. The distinctive but deserted
building was rescued from the all-too-usual decline of similar structures. The restoration of the exterior was
masterfully accomplished. [Note: This building is at 19 East Main and is the current home of the Night Owl.].
20 Years Ago (1987): Chris Cox, who moved to Evansville from the east earlier this year, does fine carpentry
and woodworking. He will be on hand this year at the annual Community Sidewalk Sale on Main Street. He will
be offering hand made wooden candle sticks, toys and wood vessels. Cox also makes a unique garden cart.
He lives at the corner of Hwy 213 and Townsend Road.
10 years ago (1997): Josh Weigand of Evansville 4-H was crowned King of the Rock County 4-H Fair on
Monday night of last week. Weigand will attend Milwaukee School of Engineering for architectural engineering.
He is the son of Ray and Mary Weigand. Members of the Court included Mark Larson, son of Edward and
Barbara Larson
In Review
First Week of August 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Mrs. Adey of Brooklyn, daughter of James Carle of Evansville, met with quite a severe
accident by the horses taking fright and running with the reaper on which she was driving. She was thrown off
and caught by the machine which tore and bruised her flesh in a horrible manner. Drs. Evans and Quivey were
called to her aid and express hopes of her recovery.
130 Years Ago (1877): One day last week a woman named Thorpe, living in the town of Union, went to the well
to draw a pail of water. Finding something attached to the bucket that was down in the well, she examined
closely and saw a small child clinging to the bucket. She went to the nearest neighbor’s (about eighty rods) for
assistance, and they were obliged to send across the farm for a man. Finally help reached the spot and the
child was brought to the surface alive. The well is forty feet in depth, the water seven or eight feet deep, and
the child, only three years of age. The child’s name is Tierney. How long it had been there no one knows. Its
teeth were set and hands clenched when taken from the well. A more wonderful escape has not come under
out notice lately.
120 Years Ago (1887): Otis Thompson, of Brooklyn, was 80 years old July 29th, and on that day, pitched on
two loads of hay, and then walked 10 miles to Evansville to attend a Post meeting. The Post presented him
with a cane properly engraved.
110 Years Ago (1897): Messrs. Wm. Garfield, Wm. Burk and Arford Jones were considerably shaken, bruised
and scratched up Monday morning, by the falling of a scaffold at Mr. Burk’s new residence. Mr. Burk suffered
the most injury, having fallen the greatest distance about 20 feet; it is thought that no bones are broken and all
will soon recover, but it may be several days before Mr. Burk will be able to resume work.
100 Years Ago (1907): The masonry and brick work on the first story of the new library is completed. How do
you like it thus far?
90 Years Ago (1917): On last Thursday, Company M, of Janesville, went to Camp Douglas to train for their
activities in the Great War. While the train was in Evansville many of the relatives and friends of the boys were
at the depot to say farewell to them. This company has in a short time been recruited to full war strength and
they are as fine a bunch of men as ever donned the regulation uniform. The following is a roster of Evansville
men in Company M: Glenn Estes, Raymond Estes, Warren J. Hibbard, Herbert Pritchard, Lloyd M. Rowley,
Clarence Stiff, Alfred Stiff, Percy Weaver, Max Weaver, Dan S. Williams, Robert Woodard, Allie Petersen, Virgil
Keller. Brooklyn men on the roster are Bernie Christensen, Thorward Christensen, Frank Milbrandt, Robert
Weiser, Einer Johnson, Benjamin Johnson, Otis B. O’Brien, and Melvin Berger.
80 Years Ago (1927): Last Saturday the Baker Manufacturing Co. gathered in a picnic to celebrate the
conclusion of fifty years of continuous service on the part of Frank L. Hubbard, who had not only worked for the
company for that length of time, but had worked continuously in one department, the foundry, starting there
when a young man and becoming foreman until his advancing years forced him to turn the foremanship over to
his son, Ray, although even then and now, he still holds his place on the payroll of the company. John Baker
presented Mr. Hubbard with a beautiful service pin of gold, with a diamond in the center. Three have been
there between forty and fifty years, Charles Jenkins, with a record of forty-six years; F. G. Wilder, with forty-five
years and Mr. John Baker, President of the company has a record of forty-six years. Clyde Babcock has over
thirty years of service.
70 Years Ago (1937): Mrs. Gertrude Eager announced today that William A. Steffin, formerly of Fort Atkinson,
had leased a forty-foot frontage in the Economy building, and would occupy the space September 15, or
thereabouts. The new store will be a Ben Franklin Store carrying a line of ladies wear, light hardware, and
smaller goods. Mr. Steffin is well know in Fort Atkinson where he has managed a Penney Company store for
many years before retiring. Extensive alterations will be made in the building. Besides the forty foot frontage
which Mr. Steffin has leased, there will remain one store on the west, and two on the east in the Economy
building. Mr. and Mrs. Steffin and family will move to Evansville to make their residence here as soon as they
rent a home.
60 Years Ago (1947): The Evansville American Legion baseball team scored a 9-4 victory over Deerfield last
Sunday, thus tying that team for third place. Bob Olsen pitched a steady game Sunday while Mel Allen, Bernie
Golz, La Vern Elmer and “Sleep” McCaffery led the team in hitting. Mel Allen had a home run and Bernie Golz
two doubles. Jim Johnson had a perfect day at bat with four walks and a sacrifice.
50 Years Ago (1957): Susan and Jane Willoughby, Patricia Bewick, Pamela Erstad, Sally Capron, Juliann Fick,
Janet Ballard, Norma Estes, Rhonda Thompson, Patty Hall, Lois Becher, Mary Patterson and Joetta Davis are
attending Phantom Lake Camp from Aug. 11 to 21st. Some 50 girls from the Tri-county YMCA area are
attending this summer.
40 Years Ago (1967): Harry Romano of Newark, New Jersey, has been named as the new principal of
Evansville High School. Romano, 35, received the B. S. degree in 1961 with majors in mathematics and
English and the M. A. degree in 1963, majoring in secondary school administration from Seton Hall University.
Mr. Romano served two years in the U. S. army during the Korean War as a missile officer. He has coached
football, and enjoys golf and skiing. The Romanos have one son, Peter, sixteen months old.
30 Years Ago (1977): Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Hensel, 129 Sherman Ave., will celebrate their 50th wedding
anniversary Sunday, August 14. Their children will host an open house at the Evansville Country Club. Alfred
Hensel and Beth Noyes were married in Evansville, August 17, 1927. They were both teachers. Mr. Hensel
retired from General Motors. They have had an antique shop the last 15 years. They have three daughters,
Mrs. Carroll Hartl, of Madison, Mrs. Kenneth Kuelz and Mrs. Robert Hallmark of Evansville, 12 grandchildren
and one great grandchild.
.
20 Years Ago (1987): Doug Spooner, son of Ann and Don Spooner, Rt. 1, Bullard Rd., Evansville was crowned
King of the Rock County 4-H Fair. Doug’s projects are beef, swine, leather craft, youth leadership, and
veterinary science. He has been active in county fund raising and recreation and participates in county and
district livestock contests. This year he served as a delegate to the National 4-H congress for beef. He is also
the Fulton 4-H Beef Leader and junior supt. in the beef and swine at the fair.
10 years ago (1997): New to the Middle School will be Brian Cashore, Physical Education/Health; Charity
Kostroun, Physical Education/Health; Nancy Karls Niehaus, 5th grade Reading/Language Arts; Sally Nelson,
5th Grade Math; Patty O’Connor, long term substitute for Kim Wollinger.
In Review
Second Week of August 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The weather continues warm and favorable for farmers to secure their crops. Farmers
are getting along finely, by another week the grain will be all cut and in the stack, and then will come the busy
season of threshing, already the old rickety machines are being hauled out for repairs. Seldom do we have a
season so favorable to harvesting as what this has been. Cheering news of a bountiful harvest greets us from
every part of the country.
130 Years Ago (1877): DIED. August 13, 1877, Clifton E. Bullard, son of Elmer and Edwina Bullard, aged 6
years and 7 months, of malignant scarlatina, after an illness of three days.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. C. E. Cummings came up from Janesville in the storm Wednesday night, and will
now put his store in prime order for opening up his large stock of goods about the first of September. The
store has been cleaned thoroughly, and will be newly papered and painted, ceiling calcimined and everything,
shelving and all, put in first class shape for business. The new firm will be Cummings & Clark. [Note: The
Cummings & Clark business replaced Winston & Sons in the general store business at 1 West Main.]
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. George Wood with his family spent his vacation of a week with friends in the vicinity
of Albany. He sought pearls one day and was rewarded by finding three in one shell, which he takes great
pride in showing his friends.
100 Years Ago (1907): Another baseball game Saturday afternoon at the fair grounds between the employees
of the Baker Manufacturing Company and the Butter Company. Admission only fifteen cents.
90 Years Ago (1917): Miss Maude Tomlin is off duty at the office of the Baker Mfg. Co. for a two week’s
vacation.
80 Years Ago (1927): Fine Talent Shown By Our Rural Clubs In Community Work. The idea of having some
entertainment in the Rest Tent at the Rock County Fair in Evansville originated with the Pleasant Prairie Club.
After a good bit of work by the Pleasant Prairie people, seven different communities joined the movement. The
Fair Management provided a larger tent, with a platform, to be shared with the 4-H Club demonstration teams.
The Club women procured their own piano at a cost of $15. It was inevitable that misunderstanding should
arise, for the plan was new to everyone. Some clubs did not realize they were to help pay for the piano, others
wanted free tickets for everyone. There was a hastily called conference of leaders who decided that everybody
should pay their own way. The 4-H Club girls who demonstrated between programs deserve very creditable
mention. Their grasp of household problems was astonishing to people who have not been following the work
of the clubs. Their ability to bake, can, or serve means much to the future of Rock County, Wisconsin.
70 Years Ago (1937): Calvert Broughton, who has been ill at the home of his niece, Mrs. Orville Jones, was
surprised Friday night by former baseball teammates. Those who came where Charles Newman, former
Janesville chief of police; Charles Hayden, state public service commission, Madison; Ray Fessenden,
Madison, former billiard champion and resident; William Campbell, Madison, former Evansville mayor; “Roundy”
Coughlin, Madison and F. W. Gilman, Evansville. Mr. Broughton was member of the Milwaukee baseball club in
the old Northwestern league in 1884, and Messrs. Newman, Broughton, Hayden, and Gilman, were members of
the state champion Evansville team in 1896.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mrs. Ray Hubbard has been chosen general chairman of the history project being
sponsored here by the local post of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The history when completed will be a
service record of all Evansville World War 1 and 2 veterans. It will be a bound book with pictures and historical
data of the veterans. All veterans are requested to send a picture of himself together with a filled out
questionnaire which will be sent to those who have not already received one. In order that the boys and girls
who have been gone will know what the civilians were doing at home, there will be portrayed with words and
pictures the activities that took place while they were away.
50 Years Ago (1957): Teachers have been announced for the various schools in Union Township: Butts
Corners, Janice Abey; Union, Mrs. Ruth Templeton; Tupper, Berdette Weisphennig; Brown, Mrs. Clara
Moldenhauer; Pleasant Prairie, Mrs. Doris Robert; Franklin, Merlyn Anderson; Tullar, Jean O’Brien.
40 Years Ago (1967): Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Wilbur and sons, Ken and Tom opened their new Supermarket
early Wednesday morning. The new store on S. Madison Street is now open and is known as Wilbur’s Shop
Rite, a Roundy member store. The store, a Pruden building, is finished in blue and green and offers a large
selection of all food products. The Wilburs have been in business at the corner store known as the E and W
Market on Madison and Main for a number of years and they now hope to serve the residents of this area with
the finest of foods and service in their new location. [Note: this building now houses the Evansville Care Closet.]
30 Years Ago (1977): Mr. and Mrs. Donald Persons were in Gwinn, Mich., on the weekend of July 23 for a
farewell visit with their daughter-in-law, Mrs. David Persons and children, David and Matthew, who left on
August 2 for Germany. They will be joining S/Sgt. David Persons who left on May 24 for Ramstein Airforce
Base in Germany where he will be stationed for 4 years.
.
20 Years Ago (1987): Employees at the recently opened Blue Cross & Blue Shield United office in the Grange
Mall are Kathleen Squier, Deanna Jorgensen, Barb Smith, Jennifer Tomlin, Toni Nehls, Amy Schwarz, Paula
Bailey, Marlene Beckmer, Sue Wooldridge, Lisa Nelson, Sue Barnes, Connie Davis, Carol Isbell, Rebecca
Livick, Shawn Ringhand, Delores Risseauw, Barb Nieman, Dulcy Ann Bauer, Jaclyn Baumberger, Steve
Wooldridge, Kevin Jones and Colleen Gransee.
10 years ago (1997): Some 1,542 students are expected to enter the doors of Evansville schools the first day
of school, up from 1,488 in January. But perhaps even bigger news presented at the school board meeting
was this: Because of an increase in the value of the Evansville School District’s wealth to $315,092,539, an
increase of 8.4 percent over last year, Evansville’s school mil rate is expected to decrease ten cents per
$1,000 from $9.89 per $1,000assessed value to $9.79 per $1,000. District superintendent Tom Benzinger
noted that the district’s wealth has doubled since he began his tenure here 13 years ago.
In Review
Third Week of August 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Evansville is a neat prim but busy village with a small creek meandering through it, on
which is a little mill. The village is in the midst of a fine farming country and enjoys a large trade. Some of its
private residences are large and costly, and all are uniformly neat and commodious, their premises being
adorned by evergreens and other delightful shrubbery. It contains several beautiful churches, two of them not
yet completed, a large Seminary, averaging nearly two hundred pupils, and is under the vigorous auspices of
the M. E. Church; an extensive cheese factory; and long rows of large stores on each side of the business
district. Farmers in this vicinity are generally before handed, many of whom purchase a village lot on which
they erect a neat dwelling and move in town to education their children, constituting one of the elements of
Evansville’s growth and usefulness. Its citizens show life and energy, all alive with the elements of go-
aheadativeness. (Written by a correspondent for The Democrat, Janesville, Wisconsin and reprinted in the
Evansville Citizen.)
130 Years Ago (1877): The teachers engaged for the present annual term of the high school are; A. R.
Sprague, A. M., Principal; Barney Standish, Assistant; Miss Belle Pettigrew, 1st Intermediate; Miss Laura
Standish, 2nd Intermediate; Mrs. Chas. Powles, Primary Department. The high school building has been
undergoing quite extensive repairs. In addition to the painting that has been pretty extensively done by Mr.
Backenstoe, the well has been deepened and the stone relaid; the main school room has been shortened by
running a partition across nearly where it stood originally, forming a recitation room in the west end, replacing
the seats, facing them westward, and a number of other little jobs that in the minds of the board needed
attending to. The whole expense will probably require a tax of $100 to liquidate.
120 Years Ago (1887): The remains of Mr. Leon Griffith were brought home from Beloit Tuesday afternoon
and were buried from the M. E. church Wednesday forenoon, Prof. Coleman of the Seminary, officiating. Mr.
Griffith went to Beloit not very long ago and engaged in work; but he soon took sick, of typhoid pneumonia and
died Monday evening. His mother and sister were with him during his sickness, but in spite of all that care and
skill could do, passed over on the other side. His funeral was largely attended.
110 Years Ago (1897): Married at their home in this city on Thursday evening, Aug. 19, 1897, by Rev. J. Hart,
Mr. Nathaniel E. Libby and Mrs. May W. Keegan.
100 Years Ago (1907): That the prospects for the 1907 tobacco crop are poor is self evident. Many fields are
already topping, but the leaf is small and presents a spindling appearance. Should the frosts hold off till
October there will be a large amount of gummy stuff shedded and to expect any such favorable weather till that
time, is out of the question. While there are many acres which will produce good crops, a large percent of the
tobacco will be fair to good and will not be ready for harvesting for two weeks or more. The farmers will not
receive as much money for this crop as they did last season, and consequently the many who expected rich
returns will have to be satisfied with small returns.
90 Years Ago (1917): E. Crall & Sons captured twenty-six premiums on sheep at the Janesville Fair. Lynn
Crall is showing sheep at the fair at Des Moines, Iowa, this week.
80 Years Ago (1927): Just after the morning service Sunday the people of the Congregational Church met as
a committee of the whole and issued a call to the Rev. Grant Clark, of Ladysmith, to fill the pulpit of the 1st
Congregational church here. The Rev. Clark has occupied the pulpit of the Congregational church at
Ladysmith for eight years and has built for himself an enviable reputation as an earnest Christian worker in the
northern part of the state. Mr. Clark has taken the call under advisement, but as yet has notified the committee
of no decision regarding the matter.
70 Years Ago (1937): Some 5,000 people were assembled at the Finnane grove north of the city on Sunday
at the 14th annual Irish Picnic sponsored by St. Paul’s Catholic Church. The picnic was by far the most
successful held in the history of the event, according to Rev. Francis Mehigan, who said that some 1,200
persons were fed. State Senator Maurice P. Coakley of Beloit was the principal speaker, outlining Irish history.
Robert Daley of Monroe was the winner of the tall corn contest. Joseph Leo “Roundy” Coughlin, Madison,
exchanged witticisms with Rev. Mehigan, who presented the former with a box of Irish linen handkerchiefs, a
rosary, and a medal, which he had obtained while on his trip to Ireland this summer. Christie Ryan, Evansville,
obliged the crowed with an Irish jig and song. The evening’s highlight was the amateur program under the
direction of Mrs. John Gedakovitz, Waukesha. Participating were Marie Kemp, Betty Murphy, the Fanning
sisters, Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell of Albany, Mr. Fox, three Klitzman sisters, Maxine Moore, Clara and Ida Burki,
Janice Davis and Bob Safady.
60 Years Ago (1947): The Evansville American Legion baseball team defeated Pleasant Hill Sunday 6-0 in the
final league game for the locals which put them in second place at the finish. There were ten teams in the
league. In commenting on last Sunday’s game, Mel Erickson said: “it was a good fast game, played in one
hour and 35 minutes, with very few errors. Bob Olsen pitched the entire nine innings and Mel Allen had a
triple.”
50 Years Ago (1957): An Evansville institution for 47 years moved to a new building and location when the
Graham café opened on Union Street. Successor of the famed “DogWagon,” the eating place got its beginning
May 10, 1910, when the late Lyle Graham built and opened a small lunch wagon on wheels. The new café
provides seating space for 42 people with booths and counter stools, and is a light, cheerful place, finished in
knotty pine paneling. It is owned and operated by Bob Graham, son of the founder of the Dog Wagon. The
shift from railroad travel to trucks and automobiles is reflected in the café’s move to its new location on a busy
highway. [Note: this building is now the Green Forest Family Restaurant at 225 Union Street.]
40 Years Ago (1967): Four large trees were removed last week from the city hall campus to make room for the
new fire house which is to be a 70 x 80 ft. building of steel structure erected by the Helgesen Sales of
Janesville, which company states that Evansville labor will be used wherever possible. The cost of the contract
is $40,967. It is expected that the building program will start at an early date.
30 Years Ago (1977): Local residents driving along Evansville Maple Street may have noticed the construction
aiming at providing the Evansville Veterinary Service with new quarters. Construction began last week on the
structure. Dr. Howard Krueger explained the present building at 115 East Main Street was designed for two
veterinarians and the service has grown to five DVMs. We just needed more room,” Dr. Krueger said. The
new building will be 70 by 50 feet and have two stories. Since it is built into the side of a hill, the portion of the
building fronting on Maple Street will appear to be single story. The basement story will be accessible from the
rear. The upper story of the building will contain reception areas, two examination rooms, treatment
preparation, surgical, x-ray, large animal pharmacy, laboratory and office space. The building is of core-wall
construction; a method employing sandwiches of concrete and insulating foam. Construction is being done by
Helgesteel of Janesville.
20 Years Ago (1987): Two residents of the Evansville area are among about 60 new freshmen at the UW-
Stevens Point each receiving $500 Alumni Honors scholarships. They are Janell Johnson, Route 1, Brooklyn,
and Christia Baumberger, 189 Badger Dr., Evansville. Johnson and Baumberger are 1987 graduates of
Evansville High School. New freshmen who rank academically in the top 10 percent of their high school class
and have been active in organizations in their home communities and schools are eligible to compete for the
$500 awards.
10 years ago (1997): Magnolia 4-H Club Cloverbuds had an enjoyable year learning what 4-H is all about.
The Magnolia Junior leaders have also taken these younger members bowling, to Pizza Hut for a tour and to
the Children’s Museum in Madison. The Cloverbuds are Kent Myhre, Robert O’Leary, Ashley and Amber
Culbertson, Matt McElroy, Roxanne Reisem, Heather Bader, Mark Haakenson, Trent McCoy, Amanda Gallman,
Chelsy Larson, Kali Pomplun, Thomas Phalin and Ben Hunt.
In Review
Fourth Week of August 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Work at Wilder’s Cheese Factory continues lively. He takes in nearly ten thousand
pounds of milk daily.
130 Years Ago (1877): The opening attendance Monday at the Teachers’ Institute, now in session here was
poor and scarcely any better Tuesday, with poor prospects of an increase the rest of the week. Prof.
McGregor, of Platteville is in attendance to conduct the exercises. He is a man of culture and ability. The
invincible and ubiquitous book agent is present, representing the publishing house of Appleton & Co. Our
home teachers are nearly all present, Prof, A. R. Sprague, J. B. Jones and others. Superintendent John West
naturally feels nervous over the laxity of his teachers, and is hardly able to reconcile the thin attendance with
the importance of a teacher’s work. If teachers do not set an example of promptness, how can they really
demand it of their pupils.
120 Years Ago (1887): We were shown a photographic view the other day, of the interior of the parish church
of Lydd, Kent, England, by Wm. Finn, who had just received it by mail from his cousin, Mrs. T. Tunbridge, of
New Romney, Kent. In the front ground of the view, stands the font at which Mr. Finn was baptized, his father
and mother also, and his grandfathers and grandmothers for generations past, as well as his brothers and
sisters, and hundreds of relatives. In the rear stands the altar at which Mr. Finn's father and mother were
married, in the aisle in front of the pulpit, once stood the coffins that contained their remains, as well as those
of six of his deceased brothers and sisters. And from the loft tower clanked the sonorous bell to tell that other
souls had gone hence, and in a spot in the old church yard can be seen the graves of the household. The
grand old church of Lydd, as Mr. Finn tells us, was a house of prayer before "The Wars of the Roses." It was
built before the battle of Agincourt, and a long time before the burning of Joan of Arc.
110 Years Ago (1897): Died. At his home in this city, Monday August twenty-third, 1897 Mr. Henry Longfield,
aged 76 years and 3 months. The deceased was born December 11, 1820, in Northumberland County,
Pennsylvania, removing in his childhood with the family to Trumble County, Ohio. In the early forties he came
to Wisconsin and after several moves he located upon a farm in the Town of Magnolia in this county. Upon
November 25, 1852, he was married to Miss Orilla Spence. His wife and one son, the Rev. Arthur Longfield,
survive him; one son having died in 1871. Thirteen years ago the family moved to this city and it has since
been their home. In 1855, Mr. Longfield became a member of the United Brethren church and retained his
connection with that society until three years ago he united with the F. W. Baptist church. The funeral occurred
Wednesday morning, the Rev. M. C. Miner officiating.
100 Years Ago (1907): According to the customs heretofore allowed, all business houses in this city will close
Thursday afternoon next, so as to allow all the clerks to attend the Rock County Fair. The time before the
opening of the ninth annual fair, is rapidly drawing to a close. From present indications, the exhibits in different
departments and the several amusements of a high merit, are of an exceedingly flattering nature, and promises
to be attractive enough for the most fastidious. The baseball attractions will prove a good drawing card every
forenoon and couple with horse racing in the afternoon will afford much pleasure to the sporting fraternity.
Bands will be plenty, two on the grounds every day. Let all our people throw out a welcome hand and beaming
smile to the stranger who appears in our city during the fair week, and assist in making it a pleasure to be within
our corporate limits.
90 Years Ago (1917): The Evansville High and Public Schools will not open on Monday, September 10, as
originally planned, but will begin the year’s work on Monday, September 17. The reason for the change in the
date is to allow those of the scholars who are employed in agricultural pursuits to assist in harvesting and in
this way aid the general movement throughout the Nation for the furthering of Food Conservation. The
Evansville schools are not alone in the postponement of the opening of their session, as the schools at Beloit,
Janesville, and other large cities have adopted this plan.
80 Years Ago (1927): The threshing company, which includes twelve farmers, with a “run” from Will West’s,
north of Brooklyn, to James Anderson’s south of Brooklyn, finished their work in eleven days. The tractor
engine which kept the separator busy was run by W. Crocker for his son, Charles. It being a new engine
accounts for the speed in which the work was done up. About 14,600 bushels of grain were threshed, showing
a decrease in bushels of grain as 22,000 were threshed out last year.
70 Years Ago (1937): Officials of the White Star school board this week were seeking information leading to
the arrest of vandals who broke into and made a wreck of the school interior. A reward was offered this week
by the school board for information leading to an arrest and the county sheriff was called in to work on the
case. The discovery of damage done to the school was made Tuesday of this week, when the building was
entered for the first time since early in July, when the annual meeting was held. The vandals had broken in,
and smeared black paint on all the desks, on the floors, walls, boards, and had wrecked the games and library.
The building will be unusable until repairs are made at considerable expense to put the building in shape for
the opening of school.
60 Years Ago (1947): The 1947 summer season at the city parks will be officially closed next Monday, Labor
Day, but as in former years, if the weather permits, many picnics will be held during September and even later
in the fall. The store which has been operated during the summer by Mrs. Christian Ebenhardt and daughter
will be kept open as long as business is good and the tourist cabins which are in charge of Mr. and Mrs. J. I.
Scott will be open for rent for some time. The playground equipment located in Leonard park with Emmett
Hamm, custodian, will be left in place for the entertainment of the children until cold weather makes it necessary
to put it in storage for the winter.
50 Years Ago (1957): With only about 60 people present, school district voters here voted down construction
of an agricultural shop building Monday night. Ed Zamzow, agriculture instructor at the high school, discussed
the need for a shop. About 70 students would be aided by such a shop. Estimated cost would have been
$40,000, with another $3,000 in equipment needed. The vote turning down the proposed shop was 29 to 18.
In other actions at the special meeting, the voters turned down a chance to purchase the Betsy Jensen
property on Liberty St. for $7,800, and in an advisory vote selected Marion Mackey to succeed Lester “Bill” May
on the school board.
40 Years Ago (1967): Mayor Ida T. Conroy appointed Lawrence Skoien fire chief to replace the late Chester
Jorgensen. The appointment was confirmed by the council members.
30 Years Ago (1977): among the faculty present at the Evansville schools inservice meeting Monday morning
were new instructors Catherine Gedko, middle school teacher of the emotionally disturbed; Kathy Herritz, art
intern for middle and high schools; and high school teachers, Jeff Hanamann, driver education; Marie Carter,
half-time reading; Rona Piddington, special education; Debra Nelson, two-thirds time business education; and
Barbara Andrew, English.
20 Years Ago (1987): Recently the city council minutes, dating back to the early 1800s were microfilmed and
stored by the State Historical Society. The city purchased a copy for the Eager Free Public Library and is now
available to the public and may easily be read on the microfilm reader printer.
10 years ago (1997): At a special council meeting on Wednesday night of last week, council members were
able to study the space and costs prepared by city engineering firm Foth and Van Dyke and come up with
comparison figures for three referendum options. The figures for the three options resulted in the following:
City Hall/Dean Medical Building $892,500; Piggly Wiggly Store on South Madison Street, $897,700; and
building a new city hall at the present east side police department site $1,018,000. The city hall and the Dean
Medical building would require remodeling, the city hall would get an elevator and masonry work would have to
be done. The Piggly Wiggly building would require masonry work to create the ambience of a city hall. The
interior would have to be remodeled and heating and air conditioning redone. In the case of a new city hall
building, no figure for the sale of the present police station building was advanced.
In Review
First Week of September 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The First Annual State Base Ball Tournament opened in Beloit Tuesday morning, Sept.
3d, 1867, everything was favorable as to the weather and the number of clubs reported. The ground selected
was a beautiful piece of prairie, level as a house floor, on the Stateline Road, near the Northwestern depot.
The grounds were all fenced in, comfortable seats erected, offices, &c., that made the grounds look more like
an industrial exhibition of the agricultural elements of the county, than a grand playground for big men and little
boys. Nineteen Wisconsin teams, including seven from Beloit, 1 from Milton, 1 from Clinton and 3 from
Janesville, and seven teams from Illinois competed.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mrs. Kelsey, who has been sick for a long time, and subsisted almost wholly upon the
charities of our people, was taken to the poor house, at Johnstown, by Supervisor Aller, Wednesday morning
last. She has the scrofula to the extent as to impair all hopes of her recovery and when taken away had to be
removed upon her bed. Our people have been unrelentless in their care toward Mrs. Kelsey during her
protracted sickness, and feel as though they were still consigning her to kind hands, and she would receive
better attention than is possible to give her here, with no one to supervise their charities. Mr. Kelsey is living
with a daughter away, and the children are here. The children are all old enough to take care and provide
comfortably for themselves, which they undoubtedly will do.
120 Years Ago (1887): The Baker Manufacturing Company shipped a car load of pumps and windmills
yesterday to their agents, Messrs. Cunningham & Cropper, of Ansley, Neb.
110 Years Ago (1897): Peter St. John gave himself up to Sheriff Acheson as an accomplice in the burglary of
the Eager residence a couple of weeks ago. He says that since he was released from Waupun where he was
placed for the crime of forgery, he has tried to do better but met with no encouragement, no one being willing to
give him employment and he broke into the house as the only means to get money. He says that the fine work
of the theft was done by an associate. The truth of St. John’s statements is very much doubted.
100 Years Ago (1907): The old Barnum house, near the Main Street railroad crossing, recently purchased by
Michael Finneran, has been moved to his property near the cemetery. This house is one of the old landmarks,
it being used as an eating house when the railroad was being built through the city.
90 Years Ago (1917): The First Congregational Church of our city was startled and surprised last Sunday
morning by the resignation of its pastor, Rev. Malcolm Miller. Pastor Miller came to our city from Moline, Illinois,
where he had a successful ministry of four years. He and his family have endeared themselves to a host of our
citizens. They are an interesting and an exceptional family in many respects. Mr. Miller is a man of real
thought, an excellent preacher, broad-minded; deliberate in judgment, an earnest worker, avoiding the
spectacular, but whose life is acknowledged to be an every day sermon.
80 Years Ago (1927): John Montgomery, aged forty-seven, died at St. Mary’s Hospital, Madison, as the result
of an operation last Monday, after a year of failing health. M. Montgomery was a son of the late Mary and
Frank Montgomery and was raised on the old Montgomery farm in the town of Porter. About twenty-five years
ago he was united in marriage to Miss Gertrude Dean also of the town of Porter, they lived on several different
farms in that township, later moving to the Delia Fish place just north of Evansville, where he was making his
home at the time of his death. In the passing of the years, ten children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Montgomery, two of them dying in early childhood. Those left to mourn his loss are his wife, Gertride; Dean,
Edgerton; Miss Myrtle, Chicago; and Mary, Melvin, Kenneth, Donald, Joyce and Jeanette at home. Mr.
Montgomery was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church from which the funeral services were held, burial
being in Maple Hill Cemetery.
70 Years Ago (1937): Rural schools in this vicinity, scheduled to open soon, will see few changes in teachers
for the coming year. Only one school, Forest Academy school in the town of Porter, will not open this year, as
the two children who were enrolled for this term will be cared for at neighboring schools. In the town of Union
new teachers are Mrs. Marion Holmes, Union; Mrs. H. T. Carey, Brown; and Madeline Bryan, Tullar. Returning
are Ruth Allen, Butts Corners; Hazel Murphy, Tupper; Orpha McLaughlin, Pleasant Prairie; and Gladys
Peterson, Franklin. In Magnolia township, Doris Broughton, Drew school, is the only new teacher, returning
teachers being Sadie Finnane, Furseth; Evelyn George, Moore; Mrs. Hannah Anderson, Magnolia Center;
Perle Skinner, Harvey; Margaret Tierney, Gardner; and Harriet Clark, Cainville. In Porter township there are
two new teachers, Helen McCarthy, Wilder; and Eleanor Spike, Stebbinsville. Returning are Mrs. Bertha
Odegaard Roe, Eagle; Mary Finnane, Lienau; Mrs. Jeanette Klimenhagen, Miller; Mildred Horkey, White Star;
Lloyd Porter, Cooksville; and Edna Barrett, Stevens.
60 Years Ago (1947): The Evansville Legion baseball team members have not only made a name for
themselves in baseball circles, but have also revived some of the old time spirit in the city. Coach Mel Erickson
developed the team into a fighting club, as was shown on numerous occasions, coming from behind to win the
game, on others to stave off the rally of their opponents. Evansville is a member of the Eastern Section of the
Home talent League, which is the largest amateur league in the United States. There were ten teams in the
Eastern Section and local boys won 12 while losing 7 to gain second place in the league.
50 Years Ago (1957): One hundred boys, the full capacity of the school, will arrive here Wednesday,
September 14, to begin classes at the Wyler School, according to the Des Rochers who operate it. Boys who
attend the school will come from 14 states this year. A high proportion of the boys are from Chicago, Detroit,
and Cleveland, but others come from as far away as Florida and Nevada. The school has a staff of 16, the
same as last year. Instruction is given from the first through eighth grades. [Note: the Wyler School was
located in the buildings now known as the Seminary Apartments. The Wyler School closed in 1979.]
40 Years Ago (1967): Instructors who joined the District No. 6 Evansville School District teaching staff last
week for the 1967-68 school year are Mrs. Carol Heinemann, Mrs. Carol Smith, Miss Mary Jaggi, Mrs. Marianne
Beckwith, Miss Arlene Blank, Mrs. Mildred Harried, Mrs. Irene Olsen, Mrs. Judith Christensen, Harry Romano,
William Gandt, Michael Smith, Daniel Pernat, Earl Broetzmann and Olin Harried.
30 Years Ago (1977): The Lake Leota District annual meeting was held last Saturday at 3 p.m. in the City Hall.
Only two property owners, Lee Smout, and Vivian Gildner, were present as well as John Jones, representing
the City and Jaycees and Phil Kress, who has been working with the Jaycees on the Lake Leota project since
its beginning. Some discussion was had on the lake study which is currently being done. Jones state that the
lake has been weed free for the past two years. This situation is true due to the return of the carp to the lake.
Cattle in the upper part of Allen’s Creek are eroding banks and causing sediment. The lake is murky and carp
are almost big enough to turn a boat over. The carp do a lot of rooting and keep the sediment stirred up. The
basin is full of sediment according to John Thresher, Environmental Resources Assessment of Madison. The
only solution is dredging out. A possibility is allowing the water to be lowered over the winter and letting the
sediment compact and then drag line it, which would be cheaper than dredging.
20 Years Ago (1987): A small housing development received final approval of the DNR for a cul de sac at the
west end of Lincoln Street north of the Kenwood Apartments, on land owned by electrical contractor, Robert
Judd. Several nice lots will be developed in this vacant area, greatly adding to the city’s valuation. Robert
Judd, Roger Berg, and Bob Schaefges are leading this effort.
10 years ago (1997): New elementary school staff are Jeanette Gulledge, occupational therapy assistant;
Renee Bjugstad, third grade teacher; Gail Guenther, fourth grade teacher; Kathy Tissot, speech/language
technician; Andrea Adler, occupational therapist; Rene Hanson, Early Intervention Reading; Teresa Ellison,
Early Intervention Reading; Carol Zee, EEN program assistant; Keith Miller, fourth grade teacher; Kelley
Gransee, junior primary teacher; Julie Mandli, physical therapist.
In Review
Second Week of September 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The order took effect Sept. 9th making the Evansville post office a money order office.
This arrangement will have a great tendency to influence the business facilities of Evansville and work a great
convenience to our business men.
130 Years Ago (1877): Sperry Bros. of Porter, threshed on Wednesday from one till seven, for Elmer Bullard
of Union, one thousand and one bushels of oats, machine measure. We have the assurance to say this is the
largest quantity of oats threshed in that time.
120 Years Ago (1887): Notice to Sportsmen. We, the undersigned, residents of the Towns of Magnolia and
Union, Rock County, Wisconsin, and real estate owners in said towns, do hereby forbid any and all persons
shooting or in any way trespassing on our lands, and any one caught trespassing, with gun, will be prosecuted
to the extent of the law. Dated August 24, 1887. F. D. Reed, Fred Topp, S. S. Lee, August Shutt, S. Huff,
Josiah Wadsworth, C. E. Lee, A. D. Ballard, S. Reed, A. Newell, G. H. Reed, H. W. Warmouth, Lottie Lee, W. H.
Wadsworth, Frank Lee, Mary Brigham, David Smith, T. Sellow, A. Milkew, Josiah Carpenter, C. W. Decker, C. E.
Robinson, Ferdinand Block.
110 Years Ago (1897): To the Honorable Mayor and City Council of the City of Evansville, Wis. Your
petitioners of the City of Evansville, Wis. would respectfully represent that the public convenience and wants
require that an electric street lamp be erected on First Street in said city at a point to light Highland Street
intersecting said First Street and would request your honorable body to erect said street lamp at your earliest
convenience. There are steps on the sidewalk from First Street to Highland Street therefore the light should be
placed as petition calls for: B. S. Hoxie, E. A. Hoxie, Dorlan Mihills, Isabella mihills, Elizabeth Colton, E. P.
Colton, J. A. Clemmer, Mrs. J. A. Clemmer, J. B. Hartley, Elizabeth E. Hartley, Gilman Searles, Carry Searles,
Mary Bemis, Kittie Maranville, R. A. Maranville, A. Baldwin, A. L. Covell, Mrs. L. Covell, W. Baldwin, E. M.
Baldwin, W. E. Combs, Mrs. A. E. Combs.
100 Years Ago (1907): Shall the old mill pond be restored? Come to the City Hall Monday and make it a
success.
90 Years Ago (1917): Beginning Saturday, September 15, we will charge six cents per quart for retail milk at
our factory until further notice. D. E. Wood Butter Company.
80 Years Ago (1927): For several years, the firm of Rodd and Miles of this city, have been building up a wool
shipping business until last year it developed that they had made Evansville the largest wool shipping point in
the whole Middle West. This year they have increased their business until last week they shipped from this
point, in one shipment, nine cars of wool, containing 890 sacks, amounting to 190,000 pounds. This is quite an
increase over their shipment last season. This wool not only comes from all over the state of Wisconsin, but
from Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois and is brought to Evansville in trucks from far distant points and stored in
warehouse until the final shipping time. The shipment this year went to Worcester Spinning Co., of Worcester,
Mass., who will sort, clean and make it into yarn and woolen goods. Having such a good market for wool right
at home is a great encouragement to farmers in this locality to raise small flocks of sheep and is especially
helpful to young men who are just starting for themselves, as sheep are an easy thing to get into and multiply
rapidly.
70 Years Ago (1937): About 300 men of the 3rd Field Artillery, U. S. Army, went through Evansville early
Wednesday morning on their way to Ft. Sheridan, Ill. They had camped at Oregon Tuesday night on their way
from Camp McCoy, Sparta. Units of the troop stopped on Maple Street, and near the Baker Manufacturing
Company to water horses before proceeding. The unit is under the command of Col. Carl Baehr and consists
of 245 horses with batteries of field pieces. They stayed at Janesville overnight Wednesday. The cavalry unit
was not with the artillery on their return trip to Fort Sheridan.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mr. and Mrs. Herman Smith have sold their farm west of the city to Mr. and Mrs. Carl
Spersrud who recently returned here from N. Dak. where they moved last spring. Mr. and Mrs. Smith have
purchased the former Covey home on Lincoln Street. Mr. and Mrs. Peter Templeton Sr. have bought the
former Willard Lay property on S. Second Street from Mr. and Mrs. Darrell Crawford who purchased it several
months ago. The Crawfords have moved into the Mrs. J. H. Gillies home on West Main St. which they bought
recently.
50 Years Ago (1957): The Pet Milk company announces that, effective September 30, 1957, it will close the
Footville processing plant and the Sun Prairie receiving unit. This will not affect operations at the other nine
plants in Wisconsin. The company has plants at New Glarus, Shullsburg, Platteville, Dodgeville, Evansville,
Middleton, Sparta and North Prairie and Belleville.
40 Years Ago (1967): With the cast complete for the Evansville Community Theater fall play, “She Stoops to
Conquer”, rehearsals are underway with Mark Bruce directing. The play will be presented here in the school
auditorium Saturday and Sunday nights, October 21 and 22. Members of the cast are A. H. Gill, Kay Gill,
Norma Bosshart, Mrs. G. W. Sawtelle, Parker Gibbs, Phil Maas, Gary Lewis and William Amundson.
30 Years Ago (1977): After a long and successful career by Rose and Claire Ehle, the Leader of Evansville,
including the building, commercial printing and shopper, has been sold to a group headed by William E.
Branen, southeastern and central Wisconsin publisher and immediate past president of the National
Newspaper Association. Named manager of the business in Evansville is Leslie J. Puttkammer, who has
worked in rural and suburban Illinois and who for the last several years has served the successful shopper in
Delavan, Wisconsin. The sale was culminated on Thursday, September 1, with the new owners taking
possession on that date. Ehle will stay on for a short period of time to help familiarize Puttkammer with the
territory. Except for Mr. Ehle, no other personnel changes are being announced at this time. Branen has also
indicated an interest in buying, merging or entering into some other agreement with one or both of the
Evansville newspaper, the Review and the Post in the near future.
20 Years Ago (1987): At the regular Town of Union meeting on Thursday night of last week, residents were
informed of a new business planning to locate in the township. Worthington Tractor Parts, Inc., Worthington,
MN, is purchasing approximately 30 acres from Robert Jorgensen, who resides on Bullard Road, near
Territorial Road. According to Barbara George, of George Realty, Brooklyn, WI, representing the Jorgensens,
Worthington Tractor Parts, Inc. is a quality agricultural related business. Ms. George presented a brochure
depicting some of Worthington’s related business sites located in Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, South Dakota,
Mississippi, and Iowa. She also cited several points from the cover letter in the brochure pertaining to the
facility being built in a convenient location near Hwy. 14, reduced prices for parts, job openings and revenue for
the area. Jorgensen sought a zoning change for the property from A-1 (agriculture) to A-2 (commercial) with a
conditional use permit to allow Worthington Tractor Parts, Inc. to operate their business.
10 years ago (1997): The POPS/FFA Cornfest proved a successful and very delicious event once again this
year. The hot-buttery sweet corn, along with the rest of the meal, has been a favorite to look forward to each
fall. The event has been conducted the last years prior to the football teams home opener. With the excellent
sweet corn provided by area farmer Randy Shotliff, Ag Ed/FFA Department members joined the high school
faculty, Joe Amato, Peter Diedrich, Barb Willoughby, Bob Scott, Richard Krake and Gary Burkhalter, in
preparing and serving the all-you-can-eat meal. The event provided a tail-gate party for the fans to kickoff the
home opener for the football season. The POPS program and FFA have sponsored the event for many years
with profits going to community service and educational projects in the Evansville community.
In Review
Third Week of September 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Johnson & Company have bought the warehouse of Mr. Nelson, and are extensively
engaged in buying produce of all kinds and stock for shipment. The firm embraces the well known
businessmen, Reuben Johnson, Samuel Norton and David E. Stevens.
130 Years Ago (1877): Bank of Evansville. The following named persons are now shareholders and directors
of the Bank of Evansville: L. T. Pullen, J. C. Sharp, D. M. Rowley, C. F. P. Pullen, C. M. Smith, M. V. Pratt, F. H.
Treat. Officers are: L. T. Pullen, President, M. V. Pratt, Vice President, J. C. Sharp, Cashier.120 Years Ago
(1887): W. B. Hubbard believes his legs, arms and hands all belong to him, because they would ill fit another
person, but the rheumatic pains, and the stiffness of the joints, he wishes belonged to the man who carelessly
shot his sheep, last spring.
110 Years Ago (1897): City Council. Office of the City Clerk, Evansville, Wis. September 15, 1897. Mayor
Stevens was in the chair, Aldermen Hubbard, Johnson, Glidden, and Pearsall answered to roll call, Lemmel
coming in later. The Mayor then appointed Fred L. Janes as City Attorney. Alderman Hubbard then introduced
a resolution favoring the confirmation of Fred L. Janes as City Attorney. This motion was seconded by
Pearsall. The vote stood; Hubbard, Johnson, Glidden, Pearsall aye, no noes.
100 Years Ago (1907): The Rev. E. A. Ralph, pastor of the Congregational Church last week tendered his
resignation, which was accepted with regret by the trustees. Mr. Ralph has accepted a call to the Second
Congregational Church at Beloit, where he will be associate pastor.
90 Years Ago (1917): Miss Hildor Johnson and Cleland and Gordon Baker came from Haugen Saturday, so
the boys could start school Monday. Mr. and Mrs. Baker and Margaret and Mary will follow soon and Allen
Baker will attend Northland College, at Ashland, for a few weeks.
80 Years Ago (1927): City School News, High School. E. O. Evans, who for five years has been at the head of
our school and worked for higher scholarships and a better E. H. S., has gone to Monroe to fill a large position.
Mr. Evans will be missed, but it is the wish of Evansville that he will enjoy the best of success. Now E. H. S.
welcomes Mr. J. P. Mann who has come to take Mr. Evans’ place. Mr. Mann favors all outside activities,
evidence of which has already been shown on the football field after school and on Saturday. But he believes
that scholarship comes first. Let us prove that we are glad Mr. Mann is here by starting now to make 1927-28 a
banner year.
70 Years Ago (1937): Stan Sperry, former Evansville High School star, and son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Sperry of
this city, will don the uniform of the Philadelphia Athletics next spring. Sperry, who was perhaps the
outstanding factor in the drive of the Oklahoma City Texas League team was sold in a telephone deal between
President John Holland of the Oklahoma City Indians, and Connie Mack of the Athletics on Friday. The
Evansville boy, now 23 years old, hopped into the limelight with the Eau Claire, Wis., team in the Northern
League, when 19. He was bought by the Phillies in 1934, and was farmed out to Elmira in the New York-
Pennsylvania League in 1935, traveling south with the Phillies in 1935, but was farmed out to Hazelton for the
season. At the start of the year he came to the Indians. He is now batting about .360 and has showed a
steady improvement.
60 Years Ago (1947): Miss Joan Marie Ehredt, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Ehredt, Evansville, became
the bride of Arthur Matthew Sands, Evansville, son of Mr. and Mrs. George Sands, Beloit, in a ceremony
performed at 10 a.m. Friday in the Methodist church parsonage by the Rev. H. A. Graubner.
50 Years Ago (1957): More than 200 girls will participate in the Girl Scout and Brownie Scout programs here
this year. Some 20 leaders of the various troops had their first meeting of the year Monday night at the home
of Mrs. Alvin Helgesen. Mrs. Al Golz was co-hostess. It is asked that mothers who wish to donate, sell, or trade
scout uniforms get in touch with Mrs. Harold Jones. A number of leaders will attend a training course at
Edgerton.
40 Years Ago (1967): Janeen Cufaude, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Cufaude, 8 Garfield, Evansville, was
among the 112 student nurses who graduated from the Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing on
Sept. 15. Ceremonies were held in the Fourth Presbyterian Church of Chicago. The graduates have
completed a two year hospital training program. Miss Cufaude, a graduate of the Evansville High School, will
join the psychiatric nursing staff at Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital.
30 Years Ago (1977): Mitch Hull, former state wrestling champion from Evansville, has been asked to join a U.
S. wrestling team which is going to the World Tournament held in Sweden. Mitch will be leaving Oct. 14, for this
event which is practically the same thing as the Olympics, only it is held in the off years. Hull felt that his
excellent wrestling at the Junior World Tournament in Las Vegas helped him go on this trip because the coach
of the team called him up to see if he was interested. The University of Iowa, at Iowa City, is his next stop as he
will practice for a few weeks before leaving for Sweden with the 10-man team.
20 Years Ago (1987): Gordon and Margaret Brigham have announced that they will be moving their Coast-to-
Coast store to the present Ben Franklin location on E. Main Street. They are anticipating getting into the East
Main Street location by the end of this month and with some remodeling and repainting and changing of
fixtures, they are hoping to be all settled by November 1 and ready for business. The new location will double
their present space. The Brighams have entered into a lease with the owners of the Ben Franklin building,
Mrs. Peg Berg, Lewis Farnsworth, and Robert Judd. It is anticipated the Ben Franklin will be closed October 1.
The Brighams have been at their present location for 17 years. [Note: the store moved from 13 West Main to 7
East Main.]
10 years ago (1997): Carrie Loftus, daughter of Michael and Kate Loftus of Evansville and Grace Loftus of
Apple Valley, MN, is currently interning with ABC’s Good Morning America, a national morning news program.
Her duties include acting as a liaison between the production and writers, pitching story ideas and assisting in
the weekly cooking segments. She is a senior at Hamline University in St. Paul MN majoring in communications.
In Review
Fourth Week of September 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Mr. L. T. Pullen returned from New York Saturday night, and will immediately
commence business. He is increasing the capacity of his store by an addition of some sixteen feet. [Note:
Pullen purchased the brick store on the Northeast corner of Main and Madison in 1866, current location of
UB&T.]
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Peter Murray, of Brooklyn, has returned from his annual tour to the head waters of
the Missouri with a large lot of choice buffalo robes, which he is offering in lots to suit purchasers. Everybody
knows Pete Murray, and when you find him without a buffalo robe to sell, it is because he has not returned from
his annual hunt.
120 Years Ago (1887): C. E. Lee, President of the Village Board, informs us this Tuesday morning that they
have contracted with Mr. Baker, for 56 electric street lights for one year at $10 each. This is but $1 each more
than we pay for our present oil lamps and leaves it optional with the Village Board to say what nights they shall
be lit with no moonlight schedule which is as it should be. The electric light mill was started up Saturday, and
for the first time, most of the stores and public places were lit with electricity. In nearly every instance the light
burst out from the darkness of that cloudy night, which began to gather at an early hour. There was a failure at
the New Cash store on the corner, but the defect was discovered Monday, there being a broken wire leading
from the main street wire into the store. This was replaced by a new wire and everything went off nicely.
Monday night, all the lamps sent out nice, white, brilliant lights, quite to the satisfaction of all, or nearly so. At 9
o’clock the current was turned off. The hour of turning off was not definitely provided for, and it caught many in
the dark. Barbers had their customers in the chair half shaven and villages were in the stores making their late
Saturday night purchases. Besides a little momentary unpleasantness, lamps were brought into use until
closing hours arrived.
110 Years Ago (1897): All the services of the Free Baptist church for next Sunday will be at the tent in Mr.
Greatsinger’s Grove. A special service at 3:00 p.m. All are cordially invited. As the result of the season of
revival meetings held in the Greatsinger Grove under the leadership of Rev. Miner of the Free Baptist Church,
16 persons professed conversion and were baptized last Sunday at Owen’s Mill.
100 Years Ago (1907): The Review regrets that the town still has a few narrow minded people who knock on
the restoration of Lake Leota.
90 Years Ago (1917): Last Wednesday night prisoners at the Madison jail escaped. On Friday night, Chief of
Police Fred Gillman and Night Watchman Albert Blunt went down to the railroad yards looking for a man and
while standing there talking they saw a man cross the tracks who, upon being questioned, could give no
satisfactory answer as to his being there. Gillman asked him to go with him to the station to spend the night as
they were picking up all the men they found in the yard that night. He became very inquisitive as to the
reason. Upon pretense of wanting some tobacco, the wily criminal succeeded in getting Gillman to release his
hold upon his arm for a moment and at the same time hit him. With that he darted across the street and down
toward the depot. Blunt and Gillman followed him, Blunt taking a shot at him and they soon had their prisoner
recovered near one of the buildings in the vicinity. They then took him to the city jail and Mr. Gillman decided
that he was one of the Madison jail breakers. He telephone to Madison and gave the description of the man
and he was correct. The police department of this city has been very successful in the past in rounding up
criminals. It’s all due to the watchful eye of Chief Gillman and his force of police officers.
80 Years Ago (1927): On account of their being a shortage of children in the district, the old Fred Emery
school district has been consolidated with the Pleasant Prairie and Butts Corners districts and the school house
sold and moved to the E. H. Libby farm where it is being converted to a residence. This school house was built
in 1872 and in it many of the now old settlers of that locality received their education. The leading families of
the district at the time the school house was built were those of Fred Emery, the families of David James and
Edward Rowley, Alonzo Sawin, and Edward Devereaux.
70 Years Ago (1937): Well Known Pony Passes Away; Was Favorite of Youth: Trixie is dead. In all the years
that pony races were held at the fair here, her owner, Art Cain, reminisced, Trixie never lost a race when she
had a rider. For seven years the Shetland pony made herself a well-known figure in Evansville, pulling the
delivery wagon for Cain’s grocery. Mr. Cain, who got Trixie when she was two years old, kept her 26 years.
For a great army of Evansville boys, and former boys now men, who remember her gentle nuzzling, and the
pleasures she gave them during her lifetime, and how she took her single talent and multiplied it tenfold, would
have marched bareheaded before her bier had her funeral been public.
60 Years Ago (1947): Baptisms were administered and a group received into membership in the Evansville
Methodist church at the regular morning worship period last Sunday by the Rev. H. A. Graubner, pastor. The
following children were baptized: Christine Ida Allen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Allen; Michael William
Schuster, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Schuster; Sandra Ann Williams, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Keith Williams;
Gary William Parsons, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Parsons; Donald Glenn Maas, son of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn
Maas; Charles Lawrence West, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles West, Stoughton, and James Dean, Beverly June,
Wayne Everett, John Arthur, Donald Jean and Sheryl Ann Thornton, children of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Thornton.
Mrs. Glenn Morrison and Mrs. Wilbur Luchsinger were also baptized. New members taken in on confession of
faith included Mrs. Morrison, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Luchsinger, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Sands, and Mr. and Mrs. Paul
Thornton.
50 Years Ago (1957): Members of the Evansville 4-H club appeared on a radio show over WCLO Saturday,
Sept. 21. The program included music and a round table discussion of the junior livestock show to be held Oct.
14-16 in Madison. Taking part in the discussion were Ruth Ann Robinson, Phillip Maas, Don Spooner, Terry
George, Larry Porter, and Ed Zamzow, high school agriculture instructor. For the musical part of the program
Joyce Norum played a flute solo accompanied by her sister Doris, and Linda and Susan Grundahl played a
piano duet.
40 Years Ago (1967): Miss Cheryl Olsen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert M. Olsen, 409 Longfield Street,
Evansville, was among the 112 student nurses who graduated from the Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital School
of Nursing on Sept. 15. Ceremonies were held in the Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago. Miss Olsen is a
graduate of the Evansville High School. She will be on the nursing staff of Presbyterian St. Luke’s Hospital in
Chicago.
30 Years Ago (1977): Three Evansville men were arrested by police early Monday morning after spinning
circles with a car on the football field. This is the fourth time the field has been torn up by vandals since May. It
was questionable whether the field could be repaired in time for the homecoming game and festivities planned
for this weekend. The coaches, football team, and all willing students are working on the field trying to get it
repaired in time. According to police reports, Officer Robert Hallmark stopped a vehicle containing the three
men about 12:30 and released them. Shortly afterwards he discovered the damage to the field. Hallmark went
searching for the vehicle and apprehended the trio about 1 a.m. at the home of one of the men, washing the
mud off the car. The owner of the vehicle was charged with criminal damage to property, one was charged with
being in the park after hours and the other was charged with operating a vehicle after license revocation. They
were released without bond, pending a court appearance to be set later.
20 Years Ago (1987): Ken Ellis is being remembered by his buddies, Ralph Bennett, Al Bone, Bud Peterson
and Roger Thompson, as they are completing the erection of the sign at the entrance to the Golf Course on
the afternoon of Sept. 14. They are recalling that a year ago, Ellis had helped in burning the golf association
mortgage, taken out when he was president in the infancy of the club. They also remembered that Ken
demanded quality in materials and workmanship of any finished product. This is why they put in a great deal of
time researching, designing, and selecting materials for the memorial, that would be approved by all who will
see it through many decades to come.
10 years ago (1997): This summer, retired Evansville High School alumnus and businessman, Jack Heffel,
established a trust to give annual scholarships to four individuals graduating from the Evansville High School.
The four students will each receive $2,500 and will be chosen by a selection committee designated by the
trust. The trust is the largest ever given to the school and the Heffel Memorial Scholarships will be awarded for
the first time on scholarship night 1998. The Heffel family moved to the area in 1892 and four generations of
the family lived in the city.
In Review
First Week of October 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Married. At Evansville, September 30th, by Rev. E. Robinson, Mr. Watson Turner and
Miss Hattie Dibble, both of Center.
130 Years Ago (1877): Rev. McKenney made T. E. Lucas and Miss Ella Murray happy by the bonds of
matrimony, Sunday, September 29th.
120 Years Ago (1887): Col. Geo. W. Hall spent last Sabbath with his family and show at his home in this place,
leaving for Watertown, Monday. He informed us that he anticipated giving a benefit entertainment in this place
upon his return after the Madison fair, investing the entire receipts in flour to be distributed to the needy during
the winter. Hope there will be a good turn out.
110 Years Ago (1897): Born on Sunday, September 26, 1897, to Mr. and Mrs. Dan Finnane, a daughter; all
prospering nicely under the professional care of Dr. Colony.
100 Years Ago (1907): Fred W. Gillman is acting as sheriff of the county while Sheriff I. U. Fischer is attending
the trail of Florence Dugan.
90 Years Ago (1917): E. J. Ballard this week received a letter from their daughter, Mrs. S. S. Beath, who, with
her husband, left this country in August to go to China, where they will be engaged in missionary work and
teaching in the interests of the Baptist Church. The letter states that they stayed in Japan until September 25.
They are probably now in China, where they expect soon to take up their work of teaching.
80 Years Ago (1927): Henrietta Von Trapp Kueltz, was born June 14, 1841 at Nelep, Prussia. She came to
America with her parents in 1869 and was married to Frederick F. Kueltz at Center, Wis. on August 29, 1869
and joined the Center Evangelical Church about this time. Mrs. Kueltz has been in poor health for some years
with heart trouble but during the past six weeks of illness she never left her bed and the end came at 12 o’clock
noon on Friday September 30, 1927 at her home, 126 N. 2nd St., where she has lived for the past 14 or 16
years. Her husband, one sister, Mrs. Amelia Butts, also of Evansville and six children, thirteen grandchildren,
four great grandchildren survive to mourn their loss. Mrs. Kueltz’s life was made beautiful by her intense
devotion to her home and children. One son, William preceded her in death in June 1924. The remaining
children are: Albert and Martha Kueltz of Evansville, Frank and Mrs. Ella Minch, Belleville, Wisconsin, Mrs.
Anna Hunter, Des Moines, Iowa, and Mrs. Beth Luoma, Evanston, Illinois.
70 Years Ago (1937): R. J. Antes was appointed alderman from the first ward to succeed Chas. Van Wart,
resigned, at the city council meeting Tuesday night by confirmation of Mayor A. M. Winn’s appointment by the
aldermen. R. L. Collins was appointed to succeed himself as a member of the water and light commission. On
motion of Loomis the fire and police committee will investigate the advisability of purchasing special insignia for
cars of city firemen.
60 Years Ago (1947): A daughter Tracy Jean was born Sunday in St. Mary’s hospital, Madison, to Mr. and
Mrs. Alvin Golz. Mrs. Golz was formerly Miss Natalie Laufenberg. Tracy is the first grandchild of Mr. and Mrs.
John W. Golz and Mr. and Mrs. V. H. Laufenberg, and she was born on her parents’ first wedding anniversary.
50 Years Ago (1957): Richard Eager will succeed John Wyse this week as commander of McKinney-Hatlevig
Post 35 of the American Legion here. Eager will assume his new office at the regular Legion meeting next
Tuesday, Oct. 15. The meeting will be held in the Legion club house. Other officers named for the coming
year are Howard Brunsell, adjutant, and Louis Shea, finance officer. A drive for 1958 memberships is now
underway.
40 Years Ago (1967): Homecoming Court for 1967: Dave Odegaard, Debbie Miller, Dan Bishop, Ann Brunsell,
King Bob Hrdlicka, Queen Kathy Kopp, Jerry Kersten, Nancy Schumacher, Ken Fuchs and Linda Norby. Friday’
s events include: skits, parade, snake dance, pep rally at four corners; bon fire at the lower diamond; game at
park, and dance in the high school gym with Top Hatters providing the music.
30 Years Ago (1977): The front on Helgesen’s Auto Agency has been redone and the building has been
extended in the back to give about a third more floor space, most of which has been used to expand the
service shop. Helgesen’s Auto Agency is holding an Open House this week.
20 Years Ago (1987): Work has begun on four lots on Lincoln Court in Evansville. The lots are completely
developed at no expense to the city, according to Roger Berg, Realtor. He notes that the City Council and
Mayor John Jones have given their support to this project and they will be fully developed with city services,
curb, gutter, water and natural gas. Two of the lots have already been spoken for. According to Berg, the
developed lots will provide $280,000 value to the city tax rolls.
10 years ago (1997): Alfred and Rose Ann Arnold of Evansville have returned from a three-week trip which
included a visit with their son Steve and family in Morris Plains, NJ and Italy and Greece. In Italy, they visited
the major cities, Rome, Florence, Venice, Isle of Capri, Assisi and Pompeii. In Greece, they visited Delphi,
Olympia and Athens. They reported a wonderful trip.
IN REVIEW
Second Week of October 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): As cold weather is sure to come without postponement, our citizens are all busy
preparing to meet it. A few new houses are being put up with the rapidity that men and means can do them.
Old ones are being repaired, and additions are being put it others, evincing a very busy and active time among
all classes of mechanics. We see a large pile of bricks in front of Mr. Bennett’s and are informed by that
gentleman that he intends to increase the proportions of his already commodious residence by the addition of
a new house. Merchants are making additions to their stores to accommodate their increasing business.
Every branch of industry is strained to its utmost tension to meet the pressing wants of trade and to prepare for
cold weather. [Note: Mr. Isaac Bennett’s house was the site of the current Allen-Meredith Funeral Home at 103
West Main.]
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. E. L. Bullard, son of our townsman, Hiram Bullard, Esq., and late of St. Joseph,
Michigan, has rented a portion of the store belonging to Mr. Morehouse, and is putting in a first-class stock of
boots and shoes. Mr. Bullard is a young man, but possesses energy and experience that means business in
whatever he may engage. He has a good reputation and personal influences to support him, and we gladly
introduce him to our “board of trade.”
120 Years Ago (1887): Charles Smith, son of Dr. C. M. Smith left Monday night for Chicago, where he enters
Rush Medical College as a student in physics and medicine. He was accompanied by his father, also Mrs. E. H.
Winston, who is engaged in a kindergarten school in that city.
110 Years Ago (1897): The following have been perfect in attendance in District No. 8, town of Union, for the
month ending September 24: Adelbert Jones, Minnie Jones, Rae Jones, Jennie Higday, and Maud Thomas.
100 Years Ago (1907): The ladies of the M. E. Church will give their annual chicken pie supper in the church
dining room on Friday, Oct. 18, from 5:30 until all are served. Price 25 and 15 cents. Menu: chicken pie,
mashed potatoes, brown and white bread, cabbage salad, beet pickles, jelly, pie, cheese, coffee, tea.
90 Years Ago (1917): The Congregational church of our city held their annual church meeting last Tuesday
evening. The inclement weather kept some away, but the attendance was very good and many spoke of it as a
very fine meeting. The annual dinner was served by the ladies in the dining room at 7 o’clock and was a
sumptuous repast well up to the established reputation of the church for such dinners. After the tables were
cleared the society was convened for the business session and was called to order by Mr. Harry Blakeley. Mr.
John Baker was made moderator of the session. Mr. C. J. Pearsall and Mr. L. A. Baldwin were re-elected as
trustees, Mr. Harry Blakeley as clerk, and Mr. R. D. Hartley was continued as treasurer for another year. The
treasurer’s report was very good showing all outstanding bills paid, and only a slight deficit in the
apportionment for benevolence, which amount was made up in full before the adjournment of the session. A
special committee was named to have charge of the church property, oversight of janitor work, etc., this
committee being composed of M. L. Paulson, F. A. Baker and Warren Cain.
80 Years Ago (1927): A festival sermon was preached by the Rev. M. M. Gerend, St. Francis, Wisconsin, at
the 75th anniversary services held in St. Michaels Catholic church in the town of Porter, southwest of Edgerton,
Thursday. This is a mission church to St. Ann’s Catholic church of Stoughton, founded in 1845. One of the
guests of honor was Archbishop S. G. Messmer, Milwaukee, now 80 years old. Solemn high mass was sung by
the Rev. A. N. Zingen, Belleville, assisted by the Rev. J. E. Harlin, Edgerton as deacon and the Rev. S. J.
Dwyer, Evansville as sub-deacon. A dinner was served in the C. W. McCarthy farm home located near the
church.
70 Years Ago (1937): The Ladies Aid of the Evansville Lutheran church will meet on Wednesday, October 13,
2:30 p.m. at the K. P. Hall. Hostesses are Mrs. Borger Hanson, Mrs. Lawrence Larson and Mrs. Merrill Hyne.
60 Years Ago (1947): Fifth Grade News: The fifth grade has organized a club which will meet twice each
month. The officers of the club are: President, Ronald Brigham; Vice President, Melvin Petersen; Secretary,
Darla Albright; Treasurer, Larry Decker. The following children have been absent several days this week
because of illness: Nancy Nimmo, Jay Blum and Barbara Thompson.
50 Years Ago (1957): Twenty sophomores will leave Monday for a visit with high school students in New
Smyrna, Florida. Kathryn Robinson, Sheila Sorkin, Kathy George, Roberta Rowald, Norma Dille, Carmen
Shelby, Carol Holm, Candace Bradley, Florence Hopkins, Iris Peterson, Shirley Cadman, David Brunsell, Carol
Davis, Ken Wood, Tom Tiede, Jerry Annen, Alan Fick, Rodney Carlson, John Bullard and Donald Bruce. They
will be chaperoned on the trip by teachers Barbara Voight and Bernie Golz. They will take with them gifts of
Wisconsin cheese and a portfolio of letters from the Governor, Wisconsin’s two U. S. Senators, and
Congressman Lawrence Smith.
40 Years Ago (1967): An installation ceremony will be held Sunday, October 15, for the Rev. Joshua Crowell,
pastor of the Evansville Congregational-United Church of Christ during the morning worship period. The Rev.
and Mrs. Crowell came to Evansville from the East last June and the pastor assumed his duties as pastor early
in July.
30 Years Ago (1977): Mr. and Mrs. Francis Cook were the honored guests at a 45th wedding anniversary
surprise party at their home here last Sunday. All their children and grandchildren were present. They are Mr.
and Mrs. Clyde Engendorf and family, Richland Center, and Mr. and Mrs. James Cook and family, Mr. and Mrs.
Donald Cook and family and Mr. and Mrs. Steve Cook and family, Evansville.
20 Years Ago (1987): The members of the Evansville High School Homecoming Court for 1987 are: Tracy
Neuenschwander, Mark Walmer, Nancy Jeans, Chris Larsh, King Matt Bratzke, Queen Kathy Hazlett, John
Benash, Patti Neefe, Jason Sellnow, Jill Updike, Mark Zee, Emily Golz, Angie Csukardi, John Briggs, Gretchen
Youngman and Jayd Grossman.
10 years ago (1997): Twelve students in Pat Peters’ seminary/composition class walked to the post office to
mail their college applications for next year. Post office clerk, Art Harnack helped the students mark this senior
year accomplishment. They students are JoDee George, Meg Krake, Kari Malterer, Erin Porter, Mike Berg,
Sherry Sanner, Ross Templeton, Tamra Wussow, Jenny Leuzinger and Jamie Woodstock.
In Review
Third Week of October 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): MARRIED. In Oregon, Dane County, Oct. 13th, 1867, by Rev. Matthew A. Fox, Mr.
Joseph P. Lincoln, of Center, Rock Co., and Miss Mary E. Benson, of Brooklyn, Green County.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. E. L. Bullard, son of our townsman, Hiram Bullard, Esq., and late of St. Joseph,
Michigan has rented a portion of the store belonging to Mr. Morehouse, and is putting in a first class stock of
boots and shoes. Mr. Bullard is a young man, but possesses energy and experience that means business in
whatever he may engage. He has a good reputation and personal influences to support him, and we gladly
introduce him to our “board of trade.”
120 Years Ago (1887): The meeting of young men at the Y.M.C.A. rooms last Sunday afternoon, led by Prof.
Jacobs, was the best attended and most interesting one that has been held in many months. The instrumental
music rendered on the occasion by Messrs Fred Tolles, John Porter and Robert Hartley, was excellent and
enjoyed by every one. It is hoped that this feature of the meeting will be permanent. A cordial invitation is
extended by the association to every young man of Evansville to come to these meetings. There is no better
way in which to spend an hour each Sunday afternoon than to attend this service.
110 Years Ago (1897): We were cautioned by Mr. Ray Gillman, chief of the fire department, to caution people
not to build fires in the streets during the extreme dry spell, which is very dangerous.
100 Years Ago (1907): Mrs. Fannie Briggs Bump died at her home near Albany, on Oct. 6, 1907, aged 78
years. Her husband, William Horace Bump departed this life on March 23, 1889. The deceased had been in
poor health for the past 18 years. She leaves to mourn her departure three daughters, Mesdames Geo.
Thurman of this city, W. R. Webb, of Spencer, Iowa, and R. Anderson of Magnolia; and two sons, George of
Albany, and Dwight of Decatur, Ill. Funeral services were conducted in the Magnolia Advent Church, and the
remains interred in the Magnolia cemetery. Mrs. Bump was known by many Evansville people, and friends
extend sympathy to the bereaved family.
90 Years Ago (1917): Last Tuesday morning orders were received in this city that the Radio corps, consisting
of Eldon Hatfield, Brooks Gabriel, Willis Decker, Wesley Langemak, Chester Hurd, Paul Mabie, Paul Jones,
Glen McArthur, Floyd Kneff, Lyle Blakeley and Joe Devendorf, Signal Sec. Reserve Corp, U. S. Army, which
was organized this spring in Evansville, should report at Camp Gordon, Atlanta, Georgia, as soon as possible.
This is the order that the boys have been waiting for, for some time, and at once they all began the necessary
preparations, so that they might be ready to start. On Wednesday morning all were ready, and with happy
faces and glad hearts they took the early morning train for the Camp Gordon. The Signal service is entrusted
wireless telegraphy work that occupies such an important place in all warfare now-a-days, as well as different
lines of signaling and other important work. A finer bunch of boys than those which go from this portion of Rock
county cannot be found in the whole American army; an army that is being complimented by the military men of
Europe as being the finest physically and morally that has ever touched foot on European soil.
80 Years Ago (1927): The George brothers and families and Mrs. Clara George, Janesville, met at the home
of their father Thos. George Saturday as a farewell for their sister, Mrs. Grant Haney who on account of poor
health leaves the last part of the week for Nebraska and other points west to spend the winter months.
70 Years Ago (1937): The sneak thief who has been operating in Evansville apparently did not cease his
depredations here last week after publicity had been given his actions, and residents had been warned to keep
their doors locked at all times. Mrs. Gordon Ellis, South Second Street, discovered Thursday that her purse,
containing $15.75 had disappeared from the buffet where she placed it. Several people’s homes have been
entered here. When apprehended, one dodge the thief uses, is to claim he is trying to rent a house or room.
One woman reported her purse stolen while she was in her back yard only a few moments. The thief walked
through the open front door and was gone instantly.
60 Years Ago (1947): In that breaking and entering is going on all around Evansville, Police Chief Nimmo
warns citizens to watch their doors. Mr. Nimmo said that many are found open when they should be closed. He
also gives the following advice: “Don’t leave too much cash in a box on a shelf; leave a small night light burning
in your place of business during the night.” Heeding the Chief’s advice will help the department which is doing
everything possible to keep a watch on local property and to prevent breaking and entering in Evansville.
50 Years Ago (1957): The Jug Prairie Good Times Club, celebrated a 25th anniversary this month. They
visited WEKI radio station in Monroe, toured the Lakeside Cheese Factory and the Green County Jail, and had
lunch at the Swiss Wheel.
40 Years Ago (1967): Evansville 4-H club officers were installed at the recent annual achievement banquet.
Harold Abey, Jr. president; Catherine Kopp, vice president; Maurene Abey, treasurer; Linda Rasmussen,
secretary; and Darrell Ross, reporter. Mrs. Harold Klusmeyer received special recognition for her 40 years of
service to 4-H Club work. Al Finger presented Mrs. Klusmeyer with a diamond pin.
30 Years Ago (1977): On Maple and Church Streets farmers have lined their wagons, filled with corn and in
the parking lot of the Union Cooperative, waiting for the corn to be dried. The Co-op is working long shifts to
complete the drying. Church Street was torn up recently for sewer extension and was completed in time for the
trucks and wagons to use. Time was critical in this effort and the job was done.
20 Years Ago (1987): Volunteer Firemen, Fire Prevention Week, October 1987: Chief Edd McCaffrey;
Assistant Chief, Ken Fuchs; Lt. Dennis Cooper, Dave Turner, Jim Gallman, Mike Cufaude, Gregg Peckham, Art
Phillips, Ron Peckham, Ken Grenawalt, Dean Hermanson, Ken Nehls, Scott George, Bob Gallman, Kevin
Endres, Art Harnack, Gary Fuchs, Todd Sperry, John Rasmussen, Jim Schwartzlow, Lee Dammen, Scott Nimz,
Randy Schwartzlow, Mark Sendelbach, Phil Montgomery, Robert Miller, Jay Blum, Larry Ringhand, Joe Ischi,
Russ Hall and Mark Brzezinski.
10 years ago (1997): At a special meeting of the Evansville Council on Friday night of last week, the
resignation of Police Chief Chuck DiPiazza was unanimously accepted. DiPiazza, who has served the city since
1988, resigned to pursue other interests, it was stated. The city will continue to pay his salary and benefits
until the end of the year, with DiPiazza receiving $36,000 in salary and $14,000 in benefits. Scott McElroy,
investigator will serve as Acting Chief, and a search for a new police chief will begin.
In Review
Fourth Week of October 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Spencer House Sold. Mr. Wm. B. Winston, late of the Evansville House, and Mr. Tyler
Campbell have purchased the Spencer House and immediately take possession. Mr. Semans who has
occupied it for the past two years as we learn, goes to Nodaway County, Missouri. Of Mr. Semans’ successors,
the public can better judge than ourself, after having catered to their benefit for a time. Mr. Semans retires with
the generous wishes of the public whose favor and esteem he has acquired while being the popular landlord of
the Spencer House. [Note: The Spencer House and the Evansville House were two of Evansville’s three
history hotels. The Spencer House was a three-story hotel, located at 1 North Madison, the northwest corner
of Main and Madison, razed in 1938. The Evansville House was located on East Main, the northeast corner of
East Main and Union Streets and was for many years known as The Eastside Bar & Steakhouse, destroyed by
fire in 1988. The third historic hotel, the Commercial Hotel, later named the Coach House, was destroyed by
fire in 2007.]
130 Years Ago (1877): Mrs. Curtis, nee Harris, left Tuesday for Chicago on her way to the Japan mission. Her
many friends here parted sadly with an amiable and worthy young lady for a long journey, perhaps not ever to
return. The last word, “good bye, Delia,” wrung tears of sorrow from many who witnessed her departure, on
this bright Tuesday, October morning.
120 Years Ago (1887): Burglars attempted to get into Campbell & Son’s meat market Sunday night, by cutting
away the sash of a rear window. Mr. Barnum, who occupies tenements above, was awakened by the noise and
on enquiring what was wanted, got only silence for reply. They’d got steak out of a shotgun in a moment
longer, and Ad’s just that kind of a fellow that’d give it to ‘m, too.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. Olaf Sundby, who is employed by Wm. Milbrandt in the town of Magnolia, received
a very painful accident while cutting poles last Friday. A tree was felled in such a manner as to strike the young
man across the thigh; happily the bone was not broken but the ligaments of the muscles were badly lacerated.
Dr. Stair gave him surgical attention.
100 Years Ago (1907): Hiram Sperry is loading a car with his household goods, farm implements and horses,
and will leave for Fairchild, where he recently purchased a fine farm about five miles northwest of that city. Mrs.
Sperry and little son Lloyd will leave Thursday. We regret their removal from our city, but wish them health and
success in their new home. They will be but a short distance from Frank Tolles, Harvey Graves, Ray Elwood
and E. Blakeley, all of whom recently moved there from this vicinity. From all reports they are located in a
productive district, the crops having been much better than the crops in this section, this year.
90 Years Ago (1917): A fine display of knitted goods that have been made by the ladies of Evansville and
surrounding country was on exhibition at the city hall last Monday. There was on display seventy-two sweaters,
eight scarves, eighty-eight pairs of socks, five helmets and ninety two wristlets. These articles were knitted by
the ladies of Evansville, Cooksville and Magnolia and after their display at the city hall were packed in a box
and shipped to the Red Cross headquarters at Chicago, where they will be forwarded to the troops in France.
[Note: the helmets were wool caps worn under metal helmets for warmth and comfort.]
80 Years Ago (1927): Evansville boys took all the leading places in all of the classes at the Junior Livestock
exposition in Madison. Walter and Robert Templeton, Evansville, took the grand championships in the fat lamb
and swine classes. Other winners were Shropshires, Evelyn George, fifth on single fat lamb; Hampshires, Philip
Robinson, first; Lee George, second; Southdowns, Walter Templeton, first; Philip Robinson, second; Arthur
Templeton, third; Harold Robinson, fourth; Lee George, sixth; single fat lamb grand champion, Walter
Templeton, first; Philip Robinson, second; Arthur Templeton, third; Harold Robinson, fourth; Lee George,
eighth; Evelyn George, 10th in class of 22.
70 Years Ago (1937): John Farnsworth, 38, a World War veteran, died Thursday at his home in Harvey, Ill.,
and was buried there Saturday. Death was caused by heart trouble and complications. He was born in
Brooklyn, Wis., where he lived until he entered the war. Survivors are his widow; his father, Lewis Farnsworth,
Harvey, Ill.; two brothers, Lewis Jr., Evansville, and Vincent, Madison; and five sisters, Miss Frances
Farnsworth, Mrs. Lois Campion, Madison, Mrs. Elsie Miller, Middleton, and Marie and Inez, Harvey, Ill.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mrs. Harold Jones was reelected president of the Congregational Service Commission
at a meeting held Thursday evening in the church parlor. Mrs. Edgar Horne was named vice president and
Mrs. Raymond Miller re-elected secretary and treasurer. Plans were made to hold the annual Congregational
women’s bazaar in the church Wednesday, Nov. 19, at which time fancy work articles will be sold. A hot
luncheon will be served at noon. Mrs. Edgar Horne and Mrs. M. O. Bollerud will serve as general chairmen and
each church division will be responsible for its own booth.
50 Years Ago (1957): The Cooksville Lutefisk dinner and supper was again a success, 1,000 attended. The
weather was ideal and guests came from some distance.
40 Years Ago (1967): Magnolia 4-H officers were installed at the recent Annual Achievement Banquet held at
the Footville Church of Christ. Gordon Andrew, President; Steve Kundert, Vice President; Lucy Rowald,
Secretary; Sandy Howard, Treasurer; Bill Mauerman and Don Larsen, Jr., Council Representatives; Phil
Andrew, reporter to the Gazette and Ed Larsen, reporter to the Evansville Review.
30 Years Ago (1977): A surprise birthday party was held for George Wollinger, Sr., Route 2, Evansville,
Sunday, Oct. 16. His seven children and their families were all able to be home for the celebration. Many other
relatives also attended the event. Mr. Wollinger’s sister, Frances and her husband, from Munich, Germany,
spent several weeks with the Wollingers and other relatives.
20 Years Ago (1987): No matter what the outcome of the upcoming game on Thursday night of this week at
Beloit, the Evansville-Albany Football Team will be in the WIAA state playoffs. The big question is who will be
the Rock Valley Conference Champions. Each team, Beloit Turner and Evansville-Albany have each scored a
6-0 conference record. This will be the third straight year that the two teams have come up against each
other. In the last two years Beloit has taken the Rock Valley Championship. Beloit Turner will be going into
Thursday’s game with a 22 game conference win. Evansville-Albany came out with a 15-7 record in defeating
Clinton.
10 years ago (1997): In last Friday’s game at Walworth, the Blue Devils downed Big Foot with a 40-12 victory.
In winning for the 13th time in their last 14 conference games, the Blue Devils boosted their current Rock Valley
record to 5-1. This keeps them a game behind Brodhead-Juda, which clinched a tie for its fourth championship
in six years. Quarterback Ryan Subera ran for three touchdowns covering 28, 10 and four yards and
completed with 17 passes for 114 yards.
In Review
Last Week of October 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Mining.—The success of the mining interests in and around Evansville is quite
encouraging to those engaged in it. Mr. McMillan informs us that from the shaft he is putting down near Exeter,
he has taken out some 140 pounds of mineral. His shaft is easy to work, and his prospects in every particular
are good. Mr. Campbell’s diggings near the “Liberty Pole,” in Brooklyn, are much facilitated by the aperture
which they struck in the ledge, and are going down finely. Mr. Huckins experiences some difficulty by the
hardness of the rock through which he is working. He has now the services of an old Cornish miner, and is in
hope of making better headway.
130 Years Ago (1877): Silver Wedding. Saturday the 27th inst. was the twenty-fifth anniversary of the
marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Emery. Friday evening the 26th inst. a large number of relatives and friends
from Evansville and vicinity gathered at Mr. Fred Emery's and in one grand procession marched to the home of
the groom and bride, and took them by complete surprise. After the hearty shaking of hands and the many
congratulations, a committee of ladies returned to the place from whence the procession started and arranged
the supper, which was in every way suitable for the occasion. Supper ended, in behalf of the company, Rev. C.
E. Goldthorp, in a few sentences, presented to Mr. and Mrs. Emery a cake basket, butter dish, spoon holder,
pie knife, and a dozen forks. May prosperity and happiness be the future lot of the reunited pair. The wedding
was enjoyed by all who were present.
120 Years Ago (1887): Dr. Smith took a ride out into the country Wednesday to visit Mrs. Hans Christiansen,
who is sick with malarial fever. Dr. Spencer accompanied him.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. Wm. Milbrandt, a prosperous farmer, aged 35 years, residing about three miles
south of this city, was instantly killed Wednesday morning at 9 o’clock, by the falling of an embankment of stone
and dirt upon him while he was directing the clearing away of some loose dirt. Although Mr. Milbrandt’s regular
occupation is that of a farmer, he had been drawing stone from a quarry near his home at intervals this summer
to this city, and we are informed that on this fatal morning, he went there with Geo. Bidwell, Jr., of this city, and
was directing him in the best manner to clear away some loose dirt and stone to make access to the quarry
more convenient, when the embankment fell upon him causing the fatal results. The unfortunate man leaves a
wife and five small children; but fortunately he carried $2,000 life insurance, $1,000 in the New York Life
Company, and $1,000 in the Aetna Company which will undoubtedly be promptly paid. The funeral was held
today, Friday at the house at 12 o’clock, and at 1 o’clock at the M. E. church in this city. Rev. F. T. Eilert,
resident German minister, and Rev. W. Rollins, resident M. E. minister officiating. Interment in the Evansville
cemetery by undertakers Young and Meinke and Jas. Powles, sexton. The family are receiving the sympathy
and comfort of many warm friends.
100 Years Ago (1907): Mr. and Mrs. Fred Rodd are rejoicing over the arrival of a baby girl. Mother and baby
are doing fine under the care of Mrs. Lottie Edwards.
90 Years Ago (1917): A. H. Devine is rejoicing over the fact that he has a new barber at his house, he having
arrived without baggage last Saturday night. While the youngster will not be able to handle a razor for about
eighteen years, his coming was cordially welcomed by his father.
80 Years Ago (1927): Mr. and Mrs. Clarence George and daughter, Dawn Ellen, attended the Calf Club, at
Madison, Tuesday. Dean and Lee George are members of the Calf Club and have been attending it all of this
week.
70 Years Ago (1937): Work was begun this week on wrecking of the old Central House on the northwest
corner of Main and Madison streets, by men under the direction of Jacob Nihart. Some floors have already
been ripped out and after the interior is largely ripped out, the shell will be torn down. Action on destruction of
the historic old landmark, standing since 1855, came to a head last week when a contract was signed between
the Leota Hotel Corporation, through its committee, consisting of H. H. Loomis, H. F. Brunsell, and L. L.
Thompson and Mr. Nihart, absolving the corporation from responsibility during the wrecking of the building. It is
the plan of Mr. Nihart to use former and present WPA employees who are in need of firewood to tear down the
structure on their own time.
60 Years Ago (1947): J. Gordon Baker, head of the engineering department of the Baker Mfg. Company,
recently received an award in the national Design-For-Progress program sponsored by the James F. Lincoln
Arc Welding Foundation. Mr. Baker’s subject matter had to do with the pump jack.
50 Years Ago (1957): The Cooksville Lutefisk dinner and supper was again a success; 1,000 attended; the
weather was ideal and guests came from some distance.
40 Years Ago (1967): Members of the Junior High School personnel recently honored John Willoughby at a
surprise party in his home on Garfield Ave. which he purchased recently from the Mrs. Warren Rodd estate.
30 Years Ago (1977): Last week, many curious shoppers were poking their heads in Marsh’s Decorating Den,
the newly remodeled store replacing the former Marsh and Al’s Paint and Appliance at 17 W. Main St. The
upstairs has a new look, and there is a whole new area open downstairs. Besides wallpaper and paint, some of
the new items include wall paintings, paneling for kitchen cabinets, and bathroom accessories. Also on sale in
the basement is pottery by Miles Armstrong.
20 Years Ago (1987): Deanna Jeans, Clerk, Town of Union; Eloise Wethal, Treasurer, Town of Union, and
Marie Ross, Treasurer, Town of Brooklyn recently attended the 40th anniversary convention of the Wisconsin
Towns Association in Appleton.
10 years ago (1997): All Evansville residents are invited to contribute to a book that will be published by the
Lions Club in 1998 celebrating the history, culture, and food of “old Evansville.” Proceeds from the book sales
will be used to fund sight-related projects and community projects. The Lions Club seeks contributions of
favorite family recipes, historic photos, and stories or anecdotes dating from around the time of early
settlement, up through World War I, the Depression and World War II.
In Review
First Week of November 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Oyster Supper and Festival. There is to be an Oyster Supper and Festival at the
Spencer House on Friday evening next (Nov. 8.) This entertainment is gotten up for the benefit of the Regular
Baptist Society of this place, who are just completing a new church edifice, and now lack the material aid
wherewith to purchase the necessary furniture and articles for its entire completion. The house is a decided
ornament to the village, and while the members of the society have strained every nerve to complete the house
in so creditable a manner, it is but a reasonable demand they now make upon the public to aid them in
procuring their furniture.
130 Years Ago (1877): An attempt was made to burglarize Smith & Eager’s store, Saturday night last.
Entrance was gained by breaking a pane of glass in the rear storage room, and also a pane in the rear end of
the store. Mr. Smith, who occupies the upper story with his family, heard the breaking of the glass, but not
suspecting it was in his store, arose, and taking a light and revolver, went below. After listening awhile, he
called out, “Halloo! Who’s there?” and was answered back in a gruff, husky voice, “Halloo.” The person
appeared to be about midway of the store, but too dark to be distinctly discerned, and commenced advancing
toward Mr. Smith, who stepped within the staircase, by which he had just entered the room, and the man
passed him and made his exit by the broken pane in the door, and also cleared the outer door by the same
means. As he was passing the first door Mr. Smith fired his revolver, but without effect. Blood was seen on the
door, but probably came from a wound made in breaking the glass. Had no one been in the building a good
haul might have been made, with the usual result: “no clue to the robber.” [Note: the Smith and Eager store
was on the site of the newly remodeled Eager Building on East Main Street. It was razed in 1904 to make way
for the Economy Store.]
120 Years Ago (1887): Caleb Snashall who has spent most of the fall in Minnesota and Western Iowa, selling
the Monitor windmill, returned Saturday. He says he has not so much trouble to sell mills as to get his pay.
Mills sell well but pay comes slow.
110 Years Ago (1897): The social event at the Henry Campbell farm, east of the city, Saturday evening, would
have been the greatest and grandest success of its kind, of the season, had it not been for the announcement
of the horrible death of Mr. Chas. C. Brink. About half had taken their departure and remainder were in waiting
for conveyance, when this terrible tragedy was announced, which so shocked this entire community that all else
was forgotten for the time being, and of course all further pleasure suspended. About one hundred had
already assembled at Mr. Campbell’s to whom the sad news was conveyed, casting a gloom over all, but of
course those present could do no better than to eat their lunch in silence and return to their homes with heavy
hearts in their strong sympathy for the afflicted.
100 Years Ago (1907): Last Wednesday proved the greatest trading day in the history of the Economy. From
early morning until late at night the store was crowded with people eager to take advantage of the many
bargains offered in each department for the one day. The store was prettily decorated in autumn foliage,
potted plants and gay ribbons. Twenty-five extra clerks were employed to assist the regular clerical force, and
all were busy throughout the entire day. The sales were the largest of any day since the doors were first
opened to the public. Kneff & Hatch’s orchestra, of Janesville, furnished music during the afternoon and
evening, and Mr. Hatch delighted the crowd with several vocal solos.
90 Years Ago (1917): The Evansville boys to enjoy their short furloughs at their home town last Saturday were
Robert Collins, Harry Milligan and Harry DeVoll. Cyrus Montgomery, of this city, it is said by the boys who have
written home, has become very popular at the Rockford Camp by reason of presenting to the company a
Victrola, which helps to while away many lonesome hours.
80 Years Ago (1927): The Evansville team held Delavan High School to a scoreless first quarter in the game
at Delavan last Saturday. In the second and third quarters, however, Evansville could not hold the Delavan
players and they ran the score to 19. In the last quarter Evansville fought like tigers and while they made no
scores, they showed Delavan what they could do if they tried.
70 Years Ago (1937): A crew of sixteen WPA employees started work Monday morning on the installation of
water for Maple Hill cemetery. A six-inch main will be laid on Cemetery Street from Main Street to the northern
entrance to the cemetery before the work is completed, R. J. Antes, WPA superintendent stated.
60 Years Ago (1947): The Shea Furniture Company recently moved from the Maple Street address to its new
location in the recently remodeled Heffel building at 120 East Main Street and is now open for business. L. J.
Shea, who has been employed as furniture buyer and manager at the J. M. Bostwick store in Janesville, has
resigned his position there to become associated with his son, Richard, in the local business. The company will
handle a complete line of furniture and floor coverings as soon as they are available and is also carrying the
Frigidaire line of electric appliances. In addition to the furniture and electric equipment sales business, the
Sheas will do furniture upholstering. [lNote: the building at 120 East Main was razed and is currently a parking
lot at the corner of East Main and Railroad Street.]
50 Years Ago (1957): The queen who will reign over the annual Snow Ball on Dec. 28 will be chosen from the
following: Tracy Shea, representing the American Legion Auxiliary; Lenora Lunde, Eastern Star; Diana Eager,
Lions Club; Muffy Heffel, American Legion; Helen Murphy, Masons-RAM; Peg McBride, Chamber of Commerce.
40 Years Ago (1967): The Convalescent Home Committee appointed by Mayor Ida T. Conroy desires to be
contacted by all persons interested in making a pledge toward the $12,500.00 which the citizens must raise
toward expenses of planning and construction of a million dollar, 98-bed nursing home in Evansville by the
Church of Christ Manors, Inc. At a luncheon meeting held Oct. 19, 1967 at the Legion, representatives of the
Church of Christ Manors, Inc. explained the plans to about fifty citizens. The consensus of opinion was that the
project was feasible and would fill an urgent need of this community. In addition to Mayor Conroy, the following
members of the Committee will be glad to accept pledges or arrange for an interview with those who desire it:
Leonard R. Finn, Chairman, Dr. Roger S. Gray, Dr. S. S. Sorkin, and Attorney Don F. Gallagher.
30 Years Ago (1977): Two major residential developments are currently breaking ground for roads just outside
the city limits, in the extra-territorial zone. Stoneridge Manor, 30 acres of land east of the city already has
roads bulldozed across the rolling hills west of County M and is ready to accommodate home construction. The
average lot size of this rural residential single-family development is between one and one-half and two acres
and two of them are already marked sold. Stoneridge Manor is owned by Robert Schaefges of Prospect
Heights, Ill. Devlin Agency of Evansville is in charge of developing and selling the property. In the Golf Air
Estate, owner Clark Prudhon has already sold six of the acre-size lots in his development. Seven more are
platted now and more lots will be added. Last week bulldozing was underway for an access road off Cemetery
Road. The area to be developed borders Cemetery Road on the west and extends approximately 33 acres to
the east.
20 Years Ago (1987): Doug Batty, Secretary-Treasurer of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission,
Lee Winch, Commission member, Ed Eisele and his wife Joan, who is also a Commission member, planted 16
trees on the Highway 14 entrance to Evansville just at the north end of the City. John Rasmussen and Russell
Hall of the Water and Light Dept. used the city digger to set the trees and the work was completed in less than
an hour.
10 years ago (1997): Junior Mike Thornton competing in his second State Cross Country meet, placed 3rd out
of 108 runners at Wisconsin Rapids on Saturday. Mike began the race by running in 10th place at the mile in 5:
08. In the second mile, Mike moved up to third with a pack of runners just behind. Mike’s time of 16:25 placed
him 10th on the All State Cross Country Team. This was the first time Evansville placed a Cross Country
runner on the All State Cross Country Team.
In Review
Second Week of November 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The friends of John Winston will be pained to learn that he has been confined to his
bed for some days under an attack of typhoid fever, and that a recovery is regarded with much doubt at the
present time. In fact, nearly all hopes for his recovery are despaired of.
130 Years Ago (1877): Married. Grove – Tullar. At the residence of the bride’s parents in Union, Nov. 1st,
1877 by Rev. C. R. Lathrop, Mr. J.D. Grove, of Le Mars, Iowa and Miss Carrie C. Tullar, of the same place.
Aller – Ahara. At the Free Baptist parsonage, in Evansville, Nov. 11th 1877, by Rev. B. F.McKenney, Mr.
Ransom D. Aller and Miss Rachel Ahara, both of Union, Wis.
120 Years Ago (1887): The electric light poles are all set and the wire strung, but there is a provoking delay
about getting the lamps. The plea is that electric apparatus is needed faster than it can be manufactured.
110 Years Ago (1897): The ladies basket ball team of the high school of this city play the ladies of the Albion
Academy at the driving park, on Saturday, Nov. 27, 1897, at 2 o’clock p.m. A football game between the
Evansville and Albion teams will immediately follow. Get your dinners early and be on time to see both games,
which will be very interesting.
100 Years Ago (1907): Messrs. H. H. Hile, Charles Fuller, B. B. Billings, E. H. Morrison, A. M. Libby, John
Schieble, and their wives, Mrs. J. C. Lees and daughter Lily, Mrs. Lina Doolittle, Leila Jenson, Stella Magee,
Terry Sorenson, Chas. Bullard, Orange Little and Joe Donnelly were among those from this city who attended
“Forty-five Minutes From Broadway”, at Myers’ Opera House in Janesville, Thursday evening. All were well
pleased with the performance.
90 Years Ago (1917): The young people’s society which was held in the church basement at Cooksville Friday
evening was largely attended. The following delegates were elected for the Madison convention: Mabel
Onsrud, Lillian Erickson, Augusta Brunsell, Torfin Olson and Ole Norby.
80 Years Ago (1927): Mrs. Fred Brunsell and son Billie, and Mrs. Ace Fellows and son Jerry spent Tuesday in
Madison. Jerry and Billie both having their tonsils removed at St. Mary’s Hospital.
70 Years Ago (1937): At the special meeting of the Lutheran church congregation of Evansville Tuesday night
at the home of the Rev. and Mrs. Theodore Heimarck, there was considerable enthusiasm over the prospect of
either purchasing or building a church. It was agreed that the church council be authorized to make an offer on
the Episcopalian property which they have used for the past year. It was decided to elect a committee to
organize and plan and carry out a campaign for funds, consisting of Martin Anderson, Harold Spersrud, Edward
Johnson, Leo Brunsell, Ole Norby, Mrs. Harry Hamilton, Mrs. Ray Rosen, Mrs. Carroll Bly, Mrs. Selmar Jordahl,
and Mrs. Tom Johnson. It was agreed and the church council was authorized to incorporate under the
Wisconsin laws, with the name of the congregation to be St. John’s Lutheran Church. [Note: the Episcopal
Church was on the site of the current post office building on South First Street.]
60 Years Ago (1947): Petterson and Sarow who for the past few years have operated a plumbing and heating
business at 10 North Madison Street have moved to a building at 5 Maple Street recently vacated by the Shea
Furniture Company and are now open for business at that location. Mr. Petterson and Mr. Sarow invited the
public to visit their new place of business and look over their sales articles which are on display to better
advantage since they have more room than in their former location.
50 Years Ago (1957): Chamber of Commerce directors met Monday night to lay out a program for next year.
This includes a 1958 dairy night; exchange students program; Black and White show; dredging Lake Leota;
industrial development; Christmas decorations for stores and offices; a week-long retail promotion.
40 Years Ago (1967): George Prudhon, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clark Prudhon is presently serving in the Third
Medical Corps near Conthien, Viet Nam. Doctor (Captain) Michael I. Sorkin, son of Doctor and Mrs. Samuel S.
Sorkin of 227 Garfield Ave., Evansville is on duty at Tuy Hoa AB, Viet Nam. Arthur Dennison, son of Harry
Dennison and Mrs. Anna Dennison arrived in Evansville on Monday having been discharged from the armed
forces after two years of service. He has recently been in Viet Nam where he saw a great deal of action.
30 Years Ago (1977): Blanche Devine shared her reminiscing to a full church at the 125th anniversary
celebration at the Congregational United Church o Christ last Sunday. A special morning service followed by
an afternoon service open to the public commemorated the special day for the church that was organized in
1846. Several other life-long and young members of the church and community attended and enjoyed
remembrances by Blanche, and three other former pastors: Rev. Francis Kranz, Wendell Marshall, and Alan
Kromholz and present pastor, Timothy Kehl.
20 Years Ago (1987): While Evansville-Albany finished second behind Beloit Turner in the Rock Valley
Conference standing, the Blue Devils placed more players on the all-conference team. Eight members of the
Blue Devil team, four on the offense and four on the defense, made the elite team. Doug Spooner, Mike Koch,
Todd Heritage, Rich Franklin, John Briggs, Jon Benash, Mark Walmer and Matt Bratzke were named to the first
team.
10 years ago (1997): Interim Pastor Bill Neuman is serving St. John’s Lutheran Church. He is from Evanston,
IL where he is currently pursuing an advanced degree from Garrett Seminary, which is part of Northwestern
University, in addition to his duties in Evansville. His field of study is Patristics (early church fathers). Pastor
Timothy White left St. John’s recently and returned to his previous congregation in Nebraska, as associate
pastor.
In Review
Third Week of November 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Fire at Cooksville – The barn belonging to the hotel in Cooksville was destroyed by fire
on Friday afternoon of last week, together with what hay, grain, &c. it contained, the property of Wm. P.
Johnson, The flames, when first discovered, were bursting from one corner of the building, and before aid
could be rendered to subdue it, the building was enveloped in one mass of flames; although the neighbors
were promptly on hand yet had barely time to secure the horses and a few light articles such as were within
easy reach. The wind was blowing hard at the time, and it was with great efforts that the barn of Henry Duncan
was saved. The houses of Mr. Wells and B. S. Hoxie caught in several places by flying brands, but an active
force of women and boys, under the direction of Justin Wells saved them from a general conflagration. The
loss of the barn was some $500; with a partial insurance.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Jas. H. Hoskins, who has been in Mr. Sheafe’s employ a month or so in Elk Point,
Dakota, returned last week and is given charge of the shipping business of A. S. Baker & Co.
120 Years Ago (1887): Cal Broughton, the champion catcher of the west has signed with the Detroits next
season. Cal’s record the past season with the Milwaukee club is first rate. He received a salary of $2,100 the
year.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. Chas Moore returned Sunday morning from Freeport, Ill., where he has been
visiting his brother-in-law, Will King, who is in a hospital in that city, very sick with typhoid fever.
100 Years Ago (1907): The first deer arrived at the express office this morning, having been captured by
Frank Devendorf. F. H. Devendorf has delivered the deer, which he brought home from his hunting trip, to
Wm. Lee’s meat market where it will be cut and distributed among his friends, as by law he is not allowed to sell
the venison.
90 Years Ago (1917): William Frederick Krause, Sr., was born in Kramshoff, Germany, December 4, 1838,
and was united in marriage with Louise Popanz May 10, 1864. Seven children were born to this union, of whom
four preceded the father in death. In the fall of 1865, he, with his family, crossed the deep blue, which took
them nine weeks. December 31, the same year, they arrived at Juda, Wisconsin, where they made their home
for a while. Over thirty-eight years ago they settled on a farm in the Town of Brooklyn, about six miles west of
Evansville where he proved himself a worthy citizen and neighbor, and where he also was one of the organizers
of the “Friedens,” Evangelical Church, in which he took an active part. About sixteen years ago, Mr. and Mrs.
Krause moved to Albany to spend the evening of their life in ease. About three years ago they again moved
back and made their home with their son, William, Jr., where he passed away quietly Friday morning, November
16, 1917, at the age of seventy-eight years, eleven months and twelve days, after a lingering sickness which
made itself felt in the beginning of the month of July. He leaves to mourn his departure, the bereaved wife, two
sons, William F. and August, and one daughter, Mrs. Minnie Ross, who are all living near the old homestead,
seventeen grandchildren, two brothers, August of Brodhead, and Fred of Monroe, and one sister, Mrs.
Ernestine Feulker, of Cadiz, and also many relatives and friends. The funeral services took place Sunday from
the home of his son, William, at 2 p.m. in the Friedens Church and interment in the family lot in the adjoining
cemetery. A very large concourse of people had met to pay the last tribute to an old friend and neighbor, the
Rev. E. G. Zellmer officiating.
80 Years Ago (1927): This week Biglow and Roderick started construction on a modern operating room,
where they will do their embalming. The room will be equipped with all metal white furniture, which will be in
keeping with the room which also will be painted white. Members of the firm state that they felt that they were in
need of such a room as many people desire to have their relatives taken to the funeral parlors for embalming
and then returned home. [Note: in 1927, the Biglow and Roderick funeral home and furniture store was at 10
East Main Street.]
70 Years Ago (1937): Thirty pupils in the White Star school near here walked out of the structure to safety at
10:30 a.m. Wednesday, as fire starting from an overheated chimney partially burned the roof of the school.
Janet Knudson, one of the pupils discovered the yard full of smoke as she glanced out of the window, and
called it to the attention of the teacher, Miss Mildred Horke, Orfordville, who investigated to find the roof
ablaze. The Evansville Fire Department put out the fire, while neighbors removed desks and other movable
materials. Laths near the chimney caught fire. Damage was estimated by the contractor between $35 and $50
late Wednesday.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mrs. Ray Hubbard has received word from Marceline, Mo., where the veterans’ history
books are being printed that the 8 ½ x 11 hard bound volumes will reach here and will be ready for distribution
soon after the first of Dec. Orders are being taken now at Marty’s Clothes shop and Dixon and Sperry barber
shop. The price of each book is $3 and the supply is limited, therefore, those who have not placed orders
should do so at once to avoid later regrets. The volumes will contain pictures and histories of all veterans of
both wars who filled out and returned their questionnaires and a list of all veterans of both wars, also pictures
and stories of home activities during the war and reports, names and photographs of those who participated in
them. There are also pictures of places of interest in Evansville including business establishments.
50 Years Ago (1957): Evansville’s well known quartet, the Gospel Singers, will present the vesper service at
Methodist Hospital in Madison today. Members of the quartet are Clarence Franklin, William Wood, Eli Habeger
and Eugene Millard.
40 Years Ago (1967): Virginia Wyse was elected president of the newly organized Junior High School drama
club at a meeting held recently. Mrs. Peter Hamacher will be advisor for the group. Other officers are Kate
Collins, vice president; Mary Beth Mohn, secretary; Kevin Katzenmeyer, treasurer; Terri Bone, properties and
Maureen Abey, reporter. The group is planning a Christmas party.
30 Years Ago (1977): Only five persons were present at the public hearing on the city’s 1978 budget Tuesday
night to hear finance committee chairman, Alan Eager, review the budget that has hit the $1 million mark for the
first time in Evansville’s history. The growth of the city this year and contemplated future expansion has
created the need for extending two streets and sanitary sewer services plus the purchased of the right-of-way
and land acquisitions that accounts for the major portion of the $277,537 increase in the budget. The tax levy
of $289,623 is an increase of $28,031 over last year’s levy and just barely under the state’s levy limit. The tax
rate would be $13.38 per $1,000 assessed valuation, up $1.29 over last year’s rate.
20 Years Ago (1987): Past Master Harold L. Tait of Union Lodge #32, has been awarded a special certificate
by the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin in recognition of his 66 years of service to Masonry in Wisconsin. Brother
Tait was raised to Master Mason October 24, 1921, in Dodgeville, Wis. He transferred to Union Lodge #32 in
Evansville on February 5, 1940. He was elected Master of Union Lodge #32 in 1944. Since that time he had
served as secretary of the Lodge for more than 30 years.
10 years ago (1997): On Tuesday night of last week, at the regular council meeting, Mayor Steve DiSalvo
broke a 4-4 tie vote on the City Hall referendum and voted for the renovation of the present 108 year old
building. Some 60 supporters of the city hall renovation were present, fearing that the Council members might
have been inclined to vote down the results of the recent referendum election. One of the first to speak was
long-time resident, Alice Mackie, who questioned “why we pay for a vote you are going to ignore.” John
Sorenson said a vote “don’t mean nothing.” Main Street businessman, Jeff Farnsworth stated the downtown
integrity must be maintained. Bill Alt indicated the council info was adequate and by possibly not following the
vote they would set a bad precedence. Tom Alisankus said, “A lot of communities around Madison have no
identity. Evansville is based in rich history. City Hall is a mainstay. Once lost we will never regain. As elected
officials, it is unwise to go against it.” Voting for the City Hall renovation were Adlerman James Bates, Ron
Jennings, Ron Schmit and Tom Cothard. Voting against the project were Aldermen Harlin Miller, Thayne
Anderson, Jeff Hanson and Janice Turner.
In Review
Fourth Week of November 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Mr. Raymond has sold his grist mill, house, and all the property connected, Mr.
Prentice, of Whitewater, being the purchaser. We understand that it is the intention of Mr. Raymond to go
West in the spring.
130 Years Ago (1877): Business is in the utmost confusion, down to the furniture factory. The Lehmans are
putting their new engine into position, and making steam connections with the boiler, and changing the entire
lines of shafting, to run lengthwise of the mill instead of crosswise, as it originally stood. They are getting in
several new machines, purposely for their sewing machine work, and arranging everything with a view to
business and economy than what they have heretofore had. Consequently business of every other kind is
suspended, both here and at the foundry of Baker & Co. [Note the Lehman furniture factory was located on
the east side of Enterprise Street and provided power for the Baker Manufacturing Company machines. Both
businesses were destroyed by fire in 1884 and only Baker rebuilt.]
120 Years Ago (1887): Our young men have organized a dancing club called the Evansville Quadrille Club,
with about 45 members, for the purpose of giving social parties every two or three weeks during the winter at
Magee’s Hall. Music will be provided by Prof. J. M. Smith’s orchestra of Janesville. All lovers of this delightful
pastime are cordially invited to attend and the managers will endeavor to see that all have a pleasant time.
The first of the series was for the benefit of the Base Ball Club, but the remaining ones will be for the benefit of
the members of the Quadrille Club. The second of the series will be given December 9th. J. H. Johnson, F. A.
Morse and Lew Van Wart floor committee. Jas. Broderick, Pres.; G. S. Brink, Secretary; & W. J. Clark, Treas.
Directors: N. D. Wilder and Wm. Magee.
110 Years Ago (1897): The board of education has decided to close the high school on Friday Dec. 10,
making the fall term fourteen weeks. The winter term will commence on Monday, Jan. 3, 1898, in the new high
school building. The loss of two weeks in the fall term will be made up in the winter and spring terms. The high
school building will be dedicated on Monday, Jan. 3, 1898.
100 Years Ago (1907): Invitations have been issued for the wedding of Miss Blanche D. Rutty of Brooklyn, and
Arthur H. Devine of this city, which will take place at the home of the bride’s parents on Wednesday, Nov. 27th.
90 Years Ago (1917): Articles of incorporation of a firm to be known as the Farmer’s Milk Company, located at
Evansville, have been filed with Register of Deeds, Smiley. The corporation is capitalized at $10,000, and has
been organized for the purpose of preparing for market, storing, buying and selling farm products and handling
fuel. The stockholders are: Robert Spencer, Leo H. Campbell, A. G. Franklin, Fred W. Rodd, andDaniel
Finnane.
80 Years Ago (1927): At its meeting Monday evening, the Lions Club decided to again put up a Community
Christmas tree, as was done last year, the tree to be electrically lighted and filled with candies for the poor
children of the town. Mr. Lester Thompson was appointed to get the tree, which will be furnished by Mr. W. G.
Miles. Harry Loomis, Rev. Dwyer and Robert Collins were appointed as a welfare committee to look after the
decoration of the tree and the purchase of the goodies for the children. A program committee consisting of P.
D. Pearsall, L. P. Eager, and J. P. Mann will take care of the program which will be given at the time of the
unveiling of the tree.
70 Years Ago (1937): Spencer Tracy, has a bit of Evansville in his autobiography, if he ever writes one.
According to an article published in the Chicago Sunday Tribune. Tracy got his name from a girlhood friend of
his mother, formerly Carrie Brown, who attended the Evansville seminary. Here she met Miss Daisy Spencer, a
sister of Mrs. George L. Pullen, and formed a deep and lasting friendship. So deep was the friendship that she
named her son Spencer after her girlhood friend. Tracy’s parents visited at the Pullen home here a few years
ago. Tracy was born in Milwaukee and attended parochial schools there, later going to Northwestern Military
Academy, Lake Geneva; Marquette University and Ripon College where he developed a desire for dramatics.
He met Pat O’Brien in Milwaukee while working in a lumber yard nights after school.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Cain were guests of honor Thanksgiving day at a family dinner at
the home of their son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Don Ellis and daughter, Madison. The occasion was
the Cain’s 45th wedding anniversary. Other guests were Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Cain and two children, Mrs.
Earl Deininger and two sons and Olive and Diane Cain, all of Evansville. Mr. and Mrs. Cain were married in
Johnstown, Nov. 27, 1902 and lived for a short time in Cainville before coming to Evansville to make their
home. Mrs. Cain was formerly Miss Jennie Sperry. Mr. Cain owned and operated a grocery store here several
years ago. He is now employed by the city. In addition to the children and grandchildren at the family party,
they have a son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Clifton Cain, Oshkosh who could not be present. A son,
Tom, died in 1930.
50 Years Ago (1957): The Rev. Francis E. Doherty, pastor of St. Paul’s Catholic Church here the past five and
one-half years, has been assigned to a Madison Catholic Church.
40 Years Ago (1967): Sp-4 Leonard M. Nehls, U. S. Army, arrived home Nov. 24, from 12 months service in
Viet Nam. He will be home at his parents Mr. and Mrs. Leo C. Nehls till after Christmas. He received the Bronze
Star medal for meritorious achievement in ground operation against hostile forces. He will be stationed at Ft.
Riley, Kan., 387th Repl. Co. after Christmas.
30 Years Ago (1977): A plaque placed on the Congregational United Church of Christ in Evansville was
dedicated Nov. 6, 1977 when the church observed its 125th anniversary. The church was organized in 1846
and received its charter in 1852. They met in the church erected by the Methodist Episcopal Church, which
was on the site of the Ben Franklin Store. In 1857 they completed their own building at the present location.
The church has been enlarged several times since then. The plaque was selected by Harry Roderick and a
church committee. Mr. Roderick is the Chairman of the Evansville Historic Preservation Commission. He plans
that this plaque will be the prototype for others that will be placed on significant historic buildings in the city.
[Note: the Methodist Church was located on the site of the newly renovated Eager Building on East Main Street.]
20 Years Ago (1987): The Downtown Revitalization meeting is set for Dec 9 at the library. Doug Batty and
Larry Dobbs, committee members, state the purpose of the meeting will be to discuss new and on-going
projects with emphasis on continuing façade renovations, Allen’s Creek project, etc.
10 years ago (1997): Blue cross & Blue Shield United of Wisconsin has named Joe Decker Vice President of
its Southwestern Region. Decker will direct the sales, marketing, provider relations, and customer service
operations from the Southwestern Region’s Service Center in Evansville. Decker joined Blue Cross and Blue
Shield in 1988 as a sales representative. Decker worked in United Wisconsin Services’ Legal Department while
attending Law School at Marquette University. Upon graduation, Decker focused on insurance.
In Review
First Week of December 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Married at the residence of John Dudley, Esq., in Rutland, Wis., Nov. 12th, 1867 by
Rev. A. C. Keene, Henry A. Pond and Harriet J. Rose. Married at the residence of the bride’s father in
Brooklyn, Wis., Nov. 21st, 1867, by the same, John A. Ogden of Des Moines, Iowa and Nellie E., daughter of
William Johnson.
130 Years Ago (1877): FIRE: Stable & Carriages Burned. Loss $2,000 – Partially Insured. About 10 o’clock
Monday night a young man discovered fire issuing from the crevices of the rear stable of the Spencer House
hotel and immediately gave the alarm. The stable contained several horses, a number of carriages,
harnesses, hay, feed &c., amounting in all to between one and two thousand dollars. By a speedy effort the
blaze was subdued, doing no essential damage other than burning the front part of a buggy. The fire
proceeded from a bunch of hay that was piled beneath the carriage. After the fire was subdued, the horses
were all removed, and people generally repaired to their homes, and most were in bed. About half past four,
morning, another alarm was given and the bell on the Free Will Baptist church sounded ominously that a fire
was going on somewhere. People rushed out, but to find the building, which but a few hours before had
narrowly escaped, all in flames, and beyond all possible means of saving any of the contents. The total loss is
variously estimated from $2,000 to $3,000 mostly in carriages and livery stock, belonging to Mr. Ed. Fellows.
The barn belonged to Mr. Case, and was insured in a St. Louis Co.
120 Years Ago (1887): People who went late to their domiciles Thursday night, thought as they braved the
driving sleet and snow, surely we’ll catch a freeze before morning, but were surprised in going out Friday and
finding a regular January thaw in progress. It gave people a nice opportunity to clear off their icy walks.
110 Years Ago (1897): Died at her home on First St., Thursday morning, Dec. 2, 1897, Mrs. Margaret Galligan
McCoy, aged 74 years. The deceased was born in Ireland where she married Mr. James McCoy, May 10,
1848, and sailed from Dublin for this country the same day, and settled on sec. 17, Brooklyn township where
they still own a beautiful farm of 360 acres. Failing health and old age induced them to move to this city seven
years ago, where they have since made their home. Eleven children were the fruits of this union, eight of whom
are still living, Joseph and Robert at Lakeland, Minn.; George and Arthur at Navoo, Wash.; Charles at
Minneapolis; John at New Richmond; Edward F. in Dakota, and Mary who is now here.
100 Years Ago (1907): A homecoming dance will be given in Magee’s Hall Friday evening, Dec. 27th. Music
will be rendered by Kneff and Hatch orchestra (including drums) of Janesville. This dance will be given as a
reunion of the students who will be home for the holidays, and the old and young people of this city. All are
most cordially invited to attend this party. Come one and all and have a jolly good time.
90 Years Ago (1917): Hattie L. Spencer Departs This Life. At her home in Madison, Friday, November 30,
Mrs. Hattie L. Spencer departed this life, after a long and lingering illness. The funeral services were held at
the home of the deceased at 432 Francis Street, the funeral being conducted by the pastor of the
Congregational Church of that city, after which the remains were taken to Milwaukee for cremation, the
interment being made in Maple Hill Cemetery. Mrs. Spencer was survived by her brother, Lieutenant G. F.
Spencer, of Fort Snelling, Minnesota, her only son, Lloyd G. Spencer, having departed this life in 1905. The
deceased had many distant relatives in this city who were present at her bedside during her illiness and mourn
the departure of a woman of sterling worth, whom to know was to love on account of the unselfish generous
nature with which she was endowed. [Note: Hattie Spencer was a professional photographer in Evansville from
1887 to the 1890s. Her father, George, Sr., purchased a house on North Madison Street and remodeled the
second floor into a studio for his daughter. Hattie married William Metcalf in 1878 but the marriage was short-
lived. When she divorced her husband, she took back her maiden name. Their son, Lloyd, born the year after
their marriage, also used the surname Spencer. Her brother, George, Jr., a physician, dabbled in photography
as a hobby. Hattie Spencer took many photographs over the years, including Evansville's circus, Seminary
classes, and portraits. When her son was old enough to attend the University of Wisconsin, she moved to
Madison and continued her photography.]
80 Years Ago (1927): The Review this week received the following list of prizes which were won in a contest
which was put on at the Magee Theatre by some outside parties on November 15-16. Prize Winners November
15: First, Vincent Vreeland; Second, Lloyd Apfel, 243 East Main; Third, Bob Gibbs, 46 North 2nd St.; Fourth,
Arthur Smith, Jr., 235 Lincoln Street. Prize Winners, November 16: First, Carl Kertsten, Porter Township;
Second, Harry Cowell, Center Township; Third, George Lange, Union township; Fourth, M. A. Otteson, Union
township; Fifth, H. Durner, Highland St.; Sixth, George Emery, Union township. Those who donated the prizes
are given as Cain’s Grocery, A. E. Harte, The Ellis Store, Variety Store, the Jewelry Shop, and Magee Theater.
70 Years Ago (1937): Miss Dorothy Louise Jahn, granddaughter of Dr. and Mrs. Archie E. Hart, became the
bride of Jens A. Norum, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jens Norum, route 1, at a double ring ceremony performed at 4 p.
m. Thanksgiving day in St. John’s Lutheran Church by the Rev. Theodore Heimarck, pastor. Mrs. Lester
Patterson, sister of the groom, acted as matron of honor and Miss Mildred Funk as bridesmaid. Edwin
Haakenson served as best man, Omar Haakenson as groomsman, and Edwin Julseth and Morris Haakenson as
ushers. The flower girls were De Ette and Joan Devereaux and the ring bearer, Richard Brunsell. Friends of
the bride who served at the reception were the Misses Roberta Collins, Borghild Haakenson, Betty and Luanne
Brunsell. Mr. and Mrs. Norum are making their home in an apartment at 137 Maple Street.
60 Years Ago (1947): Two Evansville men, Morris Jensen and Wilbur Ehredt, recently received honors from
the State Milk Testing organization and with their wives are spending today in Milwaukee where they are guests
of honor of the Luick Ice Cream Company. They will receive $20 in cash and a plaque as gifts from the
company. Mr. Jensen came here in Sept. 1934 to take up his duties as Evansville and Brooklyn milk tester.
When he arrived in this locality there were 24 farmers and 427 cows in the association and at this time there
are 150 farmers and 3,330 cows. He is assisted in his work by his daughter, Miss Lorna Jensen. Mr. Ehredt
lives east of the city. His herd average is 505 pounds of butter fat per cow per year. His best cow, a registered
Holstein, averages 850 pounds butter fat in a two times a day milking program.
50 Years Ago (1957): A painting by Prof. John Wilde, S. Second Street, is on display in New York now as part
of the International Hallmark Award now being shown at the Wildenstein Gallery. Wilde’s painting, “The
Glorious Fourth,” is one of fifty paintings in the exhibit.
40 Years Ago (1967): Miss Connie C. Christensen, granddaughter of Mrs. Elsie Christensen of Evansville,
Wisconsin was sworn in the Army Nursing Corps on Oct. 14, 1967. She was sworn in by her father LCDR
Cyrus R. Christensen, commanding officer of the USS Ability (MSO 519). The ceremony took place on the
main deck of the Ability at Charleston, South Carolina. The events of the day were a repeat performance for
LCDR Christensen. A year ago, his son, Ronald Chris, stood before him at the same place and took the oath
to enter the U. S. Navy.
30 Years Ago (1977): Richard Waller, 39, cashier for the Merchants Bank of Evansville, was approved by the
City Council Tuesday night and sworn in as the new second ward alderman replacing Richard Meyers whose
resignation, effective Monday, was also approved by the Council.
20 Years Ago (1987): The American Legion’s district award for law and order went to Arthur Phillips of the
Evansville Police Department, at a meeting of the Clinton Legion Post last week. Charles Nordeng,
Commander of the Evansville Post; Bill Hill, Rock County Commander and Ted Demiche, District Vice
Commander presented the award.
10 years ago (1997): Melissa Hughes, 1996 graduate fo the Evansville High School, is a member of the
ensemble cast for “Mousetrap” to be presented Dec. 3-6 at Barnett Theater, UW-Whitewater Center of the
Arts.
In Review
Second Week of December 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): DEDICATION: The Baptists have their new church completed. The Baptist Church is
to be dedicated on Wednesday of next week. (Dec. 18th.) Rev. Mr. Everett, of Chicago, and other prominent
clergymen are expected to be present and assist in the exercises.
130 Years Ago (1877): A Teachers’ Meeting will be held at Orfordville, Saturday, Dec. 22, 1877, commencing
at 10 o’clock a.m. The following is the programme: Reading, Alfred Snyder; Remarks on above; Analysis of
Sentences, Helen M. Welch; Fractions, Annah Cummings; Passing Query Box; Intermission; Answering
questions from Query Box; Use of Globes and Outline Maps, M. L. Richardson; Discussion on Tardiness;
Beginners in Writing, Wallace Taylor; Remarks on above; Miscellaneous business; Adjournment. Teachers
are invited to be present.
120 Years Ago (1887): Hon. L. T. and Mrs. Pullen, and daughter May, left for their winter’s sojourn in
California, Tuesday. They will first stop in Sacramento, and visit with Rev. Mayhew’s family, and then go to San
Francisco where they will make another stop, and before starting on their homeward trip, six months hence, will
visit Los Angeles and Mr. Pratt’s people at Pasadena. They will be absent some six months returning by the
southern route. [Note: L. T. Pullen’s family lived at 129 West Main. He wrote “Pullen’s Pencilings: Poems and
Prose.” The book was published by R. M. Antes Publishers and is available in the Reference Section of the
Eager Free Public Library.]
110 Years Ago (1897): Mr. J. F. Ennis, proprietor of the Evansville House, pleaded guilty Saturday to two
indictments against him for the illegal sale of liquor, paying $200 fine and $45 costs, a total of $245, which is
the highest legal fine that could be imposed. He also signed the following agreement: Whereas the city of
Evansville in the County of Rock and state of Wisconsin has been annoyed and put to expenses through the
violation of the license laws in said city, and Whereas said city through its officers have refrained from further
prosecuting me for such violations of the law, therefore in consideration thereof I do hereby agree and promise
not to sell directly or indirectly or give away, for the purpose of evading the law of the state, any liquors of any
kind or description to any person in said city for the period of five years. That I do hereby promise and agree
to clean out of my house and premises entirely all intoxicating liquors of any kind or nature, and not to allow
any liquors to be again brought or used in any premises occupied by me in the city of Evansville, Wis. J. F.
Ennis. [Note: the Evansville House was located on the site of “The Station” at the northeast corner of East
Main and Union Streets.]
100 Years Ago (1907): The Girl’s basket ball team of the high school defeated the Brooklyn girl’s team at
Brooklyn last Saturday night, to the tune of 18 to 10. Our girls feel quite good over their victory, as it was their
first game this season and they had had no practice whatever. The Brooklyn girls will come to this city, a week
from Saturday night, Dec. 21st.
90 Years Ago (1917): The music class of Mrs. H. R. P. Richardson will hold a musical recital at the music
school rooms, Friday evening, December 21. This will be a song and instrumental recital and the parents of
the pupils and their friends are invited to attend. The following is the students in the program: Helen Gray,
Hildred Gray, Evelyn Rodd, Catherine Rodd, Josephine Antes, Charlotte Colony, Ella Everill, Bessie Brown,
Crystal Lee, Josephine Antes, Mildred Blakely. Each pupil will also play a piece of their own composition.
80 Years Ago (1927): Mr. and Mrs. Walter Graham announce the arrival of a baby girl at their home Friday,
December 2nd. They will call her Harriett Ann.
70 Years Ago (1937): Common Council, December 7, 1937. Motion by Loomis, seconded by Ballard that the
recommendation of the Water and Light Commission in the matter of rural service contracts between the City of
Evansville and Mae Miles, Melvin Klassey, Joe Tomlin, Wm. F. Krause, Ferdinand Lange, Mrs. Alvina Krause,
Arthur Asmus, Mrs. John Thompson Est., Mrs. Susan DeRemer, Gordon Page, Russell George, Walter Elmer
and Leslie C. Ringhand be adopted and that the mayor and clerk be instructed to complete and sign said
contracts. Resolved that a sanitary sewer be laid on Garfield Avenue from a point about two hundred-ninety
(290) feet west of N. Second Street to N. Fourth Street and that the Street and Alley Committee, acting as a
Board of Public Works be and is hereby ordered to cause to be made, the necessary survey, plans and
specifications.
60 Years Ago (1947): The street Christmas lights are on again in Evansville and with additions this year. The
light poles have been decorated with large wooden stars with colored light bulbs on each corner of the
emblem. The stars were designed by Robert Cain, made at the high school by the manual arts class under the
direction of Dan Kissel, instructor, and wired by George Mattakat. The committees in charge comprised L. L.
Thompson, J. R. May, Ed Teubert, and A. C. Holmes, Lions Club members, and Robert Cain, George Mattakat,
and Harry Roderick, Jr., Chamber of Commerce members have announced that if the wire and bulbs can be
secured the strings of lights along Main Street will extend beyond the railroad tracks to the intersection of East
Main and Union Streets this year.
50 Years Ago (1957): Lions Club next Monday night will spend the time after its dinner meeting filling candy
bags for the annual Christmas party for area children provided each year by the club and Rex Theater.
40 Years Ago (1967): The Student Council of Evansville High School has mailed 25 Christmas packages to
High School Alumni servicemen. Donations for the packages came from individual students, clubs, and
members of the community. With these packages, the members of the student Council hope to express in a
small way their appreciation to all of the boys from Evansville serving our country today. Working on the
project were Pat Smalley, Sandy Gray, Sue Gray, Kay Shannon, Lucy Rowald, Roger Sarow, Deb
Higgenbotham, Joan Kelley, Pam Lowry, Jackie Johnson and Mr. Romano.
30 Years Ago (1977): Seventy-five voices joined in Christmas carols and a cantata Sunday night in the
ecumenical choir’s Christmas concert. During the first part of the program, Jenny Stratton directed a group of
modern carols and two traditional carols. The last half of the program, was the Cantata, “A Song Unending” by
John Peterson, directed by Linda Knuckles. Accompanists were Billie Westbrook and Catherine Fellows,
pianists and Alvina Patterson, Organist. Soloists were Larry Olson, Ruth Olson, Betty Hamilton, Lois Schmidt
and Sharon Miller.
20 Years Ago (1987): Irma Steinhoff arrived from Santiago, Chile on December 1st to attend the wedding of
her brother, Rudy to Lauri Sperry, Saturday, Dec. 5. Also arriving to attend their brother’s wedding were Peter
Steinhoff, who came from Orlando, Florida and Wayne who drove from LaCrosse.
10 years ago (1997): On Dec. 6 and 7, the new Inn Care facility held an Open House to launch the project in
Evansville. Attending the ribbon cutting ceremony were Joy and Lillian Morrison, Mayor Steve DiSalvo, Thayne
Anderson, Scott Arneson, Jeff Hanson, Darlene Einerson, and Ann Koch.
In Review
Third Week of December 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): The Masons of Cooksville, having completed their new Hall, propose to have a Ball, St.
John’s Day, Dec. 27. The Evansville Band will do the music, and E. T. Stoneburner prepares the cuisine
department.
130 Years Ago (1877): Prof. A. R. Sprague, took to himself an assistant, after his own heart, a Miss Myra
Peck, of Racine. The nuptial event was celebrated Wednesday, the 19th inst., the parties arriving here by the
P.M. train. Mr. Sprague has had charge of our High School for something more than the year past, and has
managed its affairs quite acceptably to the community. The gathering numbered nearly one hundred persons,
embodying a highly respectable class of our young people and those farther advanced in life. The parlors of
Mrs. and Dr. C. M. Smith’s fine residence were thrown open, and there seemed to be nothing omitted, by the
Dr. or Mrs. Smith that could render the comfort or pleasure of their guests more enjoyable. Round after round
of cakes, with bon bons and bon mots were passed. We understood that Mrs. Lydia Williams and our own
hostess were in charge of the cuisine department. After the tables were cleared away, Mr. D. M. Rowley was
called upon for a few remarks, to which he responded in a very excellent manner, wishing the new bride and
groom much happiness and love in this life and eternal life and love in the life to come.
120 Years Ago (1887): Thomas Morgan was placed upon a board, closely padded with quilts, taken down
stairs by a number of stout men, loaded into a sleigh, floored over with straw, and hauled to his home in
Cooksville, last Wednesday. He had lain stretched out on a cot for four long weeks, and when Dr. Smith gave
consent that he might be taken to his old home, he felt comparatively happy even with his broken and wounded
leg. He struck up the old hymn “Home, Sweet Home,” in his usual musical voice as though he meant just what
the words expressed. A postal was received next morning that he arrived safely and was feeling quite well.
Later reports confirm the same condition.
110 Years Ago (1897): Mrs. Charles W. Jones died on Thursday, Dec. 9th, 1897, of consumption, at the home
of her parents Mr. and Mrs. James Francis, seven miles west of this city. The deceased leaves a husband and
seven small children to mourn their sad loss. The funeral was held at the house on Saturday, Rev. Graves, of
Albany, officiating.
100 Years Ago (1907): Elmer Rosa, Blaine Davis, C. Snashall and L. Gillies returned from Arizona, Monday,
where they went to investigate a mine. We have not learned whether the gentlemen took stock. However, Mr.
Rosa says he was well pleased with the country and would have remained the balance of the winter, if his family
had been with him.
90 Years Ago (1917): The evening service of the Methodist Episcopal Church next Sunday evening will be
given up to a patriotic flag dedication, which will be celebrated by beautiful and appropriate services. The flag
will be a beautiful service flag upon which will be placed eighteen stars—seventeen of them each representing
a son and a brother who have offered their lives to their country’s service and one gold star for the one who
has already answered the call of “taps” from the Great Commander. The names inscribed on the stars for the
living: Floyd Neff, Lyle Blakeley, Paul Jones, Brooks Gabriel, Paul Mabie, Harry Thompson, Lloyd Wilder, Glen
Estes, Raymond Estes, Chester W. Hurd, Arthur O’Dell, Lloyd M. Rowley, Robert Woodard, Harry McKinney,
Harry Milligan, Fay Patton, Harold Seguine, Clarence Stiff, Alfred Stiff and Robert Antes. It was sad that on this
beautiful service flag, this early in the war should have been necessary to place one gold star, indicating that
one of our boys, Lieut. Ivan G. Walton, had already responded to the call of “Taps.”
80 Years Ago (1927): There will be Norwegian Services at the Cooksville Lutheran church, Sunday, beginning
at 2:30 o’clock.
70 Years Ago (1937): Christmas cheer will be brought to Evansville’s needy families on Friday 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 placed yesterday in stores throughout the city, and
other donations contributed by public spirited organizations and individuals. In addition to the food items being
collected in the stores, the pupils of the grade school have placed depositories in the grade buildings where
items are being contributed daily.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mr. and Mrs. Olaf Kloften entertained a group of relatives at dinner last Sunday at their
home on Longfield street. The occasion was the baptism of their three and one-half months old daughter,
Linda Kay, in St. John’s Lutheran church that morning. The sponsors were Linda Kay’s sister and brother,
Dawn Ellen and Roger Kloften and two cousins, Marjorie Kloften and Barbara Kloften.
50 Years Ago (1957): Mr. and Mrs. Henry J. Quinn, Route 2, Evansville, will observe their golden wedding
anniversary at an open house on Sunday, Dec. 24 from 2 to 5 p.m. at their home southeast of Evansville on
County Trunk A. They have four children and twelve grandchildren.
40 Years Ago (1967): Evansville citizens who have not seen the Christmas pageantry, “Living Christmas” being
offered by the members of St. John’s Lutheran Church still have an opportunity tonight.
30 Years Ago (1977): The City Council accepted the resignation of Evansville police officer, Robert Hallmark,
effective Dec. 17, and accepted the mayor’s appointment of Thomas Norby to fill the vacancy. A beginning
salary of $870 a month was approved. Norby is an Evansville High School graduate, has taken a police
science course at Blackhawk Technical Institute and a course in criminal law at UW-Platteville, has nearly
completed an Emergency Medical Technician course and has worked for the city as a part-time dispatcher.
20 Years Ago (1987): Chad Wallisch, Brandon Whitmore and Matt Nardini decorated the Junior Historian’s
Christmas tree, December 3rd at the Eager Free Public Library. Members of the 4th grade Junior Historians
group made the ornaments as would have been done years ago. The advisor’s for the group are Terry Straka
and Sally Eager.
10 years ago (1997): Junior Girl Scout Troop #343 welcomed Evansville police officer, Michael Goetz, who
volunteered to help the girls earn their science sleuth badge. Officer Goetz spoke to the troop members about
various ways officers use technology to assist them in performing their jobs. He demonstrated the technique of
fingerprinting and the girls enjoyed seeing the special equipment in the squad car.
In Review
Fourth Week of December 1867 -1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Some twenty-five new buildings have been added to our village the past year, many of
them are creditable additions to the place. Several new houses were commenced but the cold weather has
stopped further progress on them. Mr. Spencer has his carriage shop nearly finished. The building of Mr.
Lucas at the end of Winston & Bennett’s block moves slowly owing to the weather being too severe for the
carpenters to work to advantage.
130 Years Ago (1877): The following ladies will be happy to receive calls from their friends on New Year's
Day: Mr. F. H. Treat, Mrs. T. C. Richardson and Mrs. T. Wallis, at the residence of F. H. Treat, East side; Mrs.
Dr. Evans and Mrs. L. Spencer at the residence of Lewis Spencer on Madison Street; Miss Lizzie Pettigrew,
Miss Elnora Andrews and Mrs. D. C. Griswold, at the residence of D. C. Griswold, Church Street; Mrs. J. W.
Osborn, Mrs. A. C. Goodard and Mrs. J. R. West at the residence of the latter. Mrs. D. Johnson, Mrs. Dr. Smith
and Miss Bell Shurrum, at the residence of Mrs. Daniel Johnson, from 12 M to 8 p.m. Those desiring callers on
that day, and who have not desired this announcement, can signify the same by suspending a blue ribbon from
the door knob.
120 Years Ago (1887): Water Pierce, who has been sometime in Dakota, from union, returned for a visit,
Thursday. He was accompanied by Mr. Franklin, also of that place.
110 Years Ago (1897): Married: At Madison, Wisc. Saturday Dec. 11, 1897, by Rev. E. J. Baskerville, Mr. Lyle
Patterson and Miss Bernice Lillian Lloyd, both of this city. The bride is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas
Lloyd and graduated from the Evansville high School in June 1893, The groom, who is a highly esteemed
young man, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ad. Patterson. The young couple will reside on the farm of the groom's
father, about four miles west of the city. Both are possessed of a host of friends who will wish them much joy.
100 Years Ago (1907): Mrs. Jane A. Hopkins died at her home on East Main Street, on Monday morning, Dec.
23, 1907, of old age. Mrs. Hopkins was born in New York state nearly eighty-eight years ago. Her people were
of English birth. She leaves a daughter, Florence, and two sons, Walter of Delavan, and Virgil of Brooklyn.
The funeral services will be held at the late home on Thursday forenoon, Dec. 26th. Undertaker W. F. Biglow
will have charge. Interment will take place in Maple Hill Cemetery. Rev. T. W. North will officiate.
90 Years Ago (1917): At the Evansville House on Christmas Day was celebrated the fortieth anniversary of the
marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bishop. The celebration came in the nature of a surprise to the parties
concerned, and it being Christmas day as well, the occasion was made one of great rejoicing and festivity. A
fine wedding and Christmas dinner was served to the guests, at the close of which, Mrs. Margaret gray,
presented Mr. and Mrs. Bishop with a half dozen silver dessert spoons as a token of their regard. There were
about thirty present and a very enjoyable time was had. Among those present were Mrs. George Lee, Mr. and
Mrs. Will Lee, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Lee, Mr. and Mrs. Ray Lee and children, Leonard and Morris, Mr. and Mrs.
Fred Lee, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Gray and daughter, Elizabeth, Mr. Orrie Lee, Mr. and Mrs. Ed. Lee and daughter,
Helen and grandson, Fay, Mr. and Mrs. Worthington and daughter Marion, and Harry Bishop and three
children, Marjorie, Orrin, and Evelyn.
80 Years Ago (1927): While leaving his home on West Main Street at 5:30 last Thursday morning; Charles
Ross was knocked down by an automobile, the end of the fender catching him as he was walking along,
throwing him against the curb. The accident left Mr. Ross badly shaken up, a large cut over his right eye, his
leg severely bruised, and his chest injured. Inasmuch as the car kept on going after the accident, it was not
ascertained who the driver was.
70 Years Ago (1937): Richard and Stacia Henneberry, 14 Railroad Street, are this week giving to the citizens
of Evansville a gift of $600 to be used in the erection of a shelter house in Leota Park, which will be known as
the Henneberry memorial. The offer will be submitted to the mayor and City Council at a special meeting this
week and will be in the form of a letter signed by the donors. The new shelter house will be an ideal
improvement at the park in that it will provide a place for picnic groups and visitors to go during inclement
weather and will also serve as a storage place for the park equipment during the winter season. A bronze plate
bearing the name of the memorial and the names of the donors will be imbedded in a corner stone.
60 Years Ago (1947): Mr. and Mrs. Orville Devlin, prominent Waucoma Grange members will celebrate their
silver wedding anniversary at their home here Saturday. They were married Dec.27, 1922, at the home of Mrs.
Devlin, who was formerly Miss Clara Rasmussen. The attendants were Laurence Janes and Alma Rasmussen,
who are now Mr. and Mrs. Laurence Janes. Mr. and Mrs. Devlin have lived in Evansville and this vicinity the
entire 25 years. For the past 13 years the former has been employed by the Evansville Feed and Fuel
Company. The couple has three sons, Marvin, Rolland, and Kenneth Devlin.
50 Years Ago (1957): Order of Rainbow for Girls was formed recently in Evansville. Members include
Margaret Templeton, Edith Tomlin, Nicki Estes, Alice Klug, Susan Warner, Jean Marie Decker, Merriellen
Ashbaugh, Sharon Leeder, Norma Dille, Mary Lynn Estes, Karen Brunsell, Bonnie Templeton, Bernice Dunbar,
Ann Baker, Diane Propst, Pearl Prudhon, Sue Ellen Jones, Judith Cain, Ann Schwartzlow, Barbara Blair, Carol
Warner, Donna Jean Golz, Karen Meier, Pam Erstad, Barbara Cornwell, and Patty Hall.
40 Years Ago (1967): Mr. and Mrs. Donald Thompson entertained Sunday afternoon at an open house in
honor of their son, Gary and his bride, the former Kristine Westby, who were married in Glessen, Germany.
Gary has recently been discharged after serving two years in the United States Army. The young couple will be
living at 433 South First Street in Evansville.
30 Years Ago (1977): The Housing Authority of the City of Evansville is accepting proposals for 20 units of
elderly housing. The housing shall be constructed according to requirements of FMHA 515 Rural Rental House
and HUD Section 8 programs on land controlled by the Housing Authority. The project shall be constructed in
accordance with plans and specifications prepared by HSR & Associates, Architects. The Authority anticipates
construction to begin on or about April 1, 1978 and be completed 8 months thereafter. Judy Gitchel, Executive
Director.
20 Years Ago (1987): A record snowfall which dumped a some of 16 inches of snow on Evansville and the
area on Tuesday of last week brought winds up to 73 mph. It was the greatest snowfall in the area’s history.
All Rock County roads were closed and even road crews were unable to work on the roads. The snow proved
to be Evansville’s number 13, and after Saturday night’s snow, the count now is at 11 remaining. Schools were
closed as well as offices and employees were told to stay home and off the roads. Power was out in some
areas, on the north edge of town for an hour.
10 years ago (1997): The increased popularity of metal buildings prompted the LTV Corporation, the third
largest steel producer in the U. S. to acquire Varco-Pruden Buildings, a leading manufacturer of metal building
systems. The acquisition from United Dominion Industries Inc., is valued at $187.5 million in cash. Varco-
Pruden will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of LTV and has changed its name to VP Buildings. The sale
also includes AEP Span, a manufacturer of building products, particularly metal roofing components.