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. 31^st., 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 8^th 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 21^st 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 5^th, 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 11^th 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 3^rd Ward and for the 1^st Ward one year vacancy.  Former city councilman Dale Bryant has filed for a two-year 4^th 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 1^st 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 24^th 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 28^th and 29^th 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 40^th 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 16^th.  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 62^nd 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. 27^th, 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 40^th 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 81^st 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 1^st 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 cro