In Review
First Week of January 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Winston & Bennett are the oldest firm now doing business. The senior partner established himself in business something over twelve years ago, with his father, John Winston and his brother Reuben, under the style of J. Winston & Sons. In the Spring of 1861, Mr. I. M. Bennett purchased the interest of the elder Winston, and also of Reuben, and established the firm as it now exists. The amount of business done the past year by this firm, approaches fifty thousand dollars, and their regular customers extend over a larger territory, perhaps, than any other firm in the country. Early last Spring an extensive addition was made to their store, and the whole well filled by purchases from Boston and New York, to which additions have been made from time to time as their trade demands, so that customers have a full stock to select from at all times. They are men of thorough business culture and keep well informed as to the price and quality of all kinds of merchandise, correct in their dealings, and always obliging to their customers, ready to accommodate without charging fabulous prices to cover imaginary losses. They have connected, other branches such as banking, buying and selling of exchanges, on Chicago and Eastern cities, tailoring, millinery, business &c. The Merchant’s Express Company find a prompt and reliable agency in these gentlemen. It would seem almost invidious to close our article without adding a word to the gentlemanly clerks of this establishment, Messrs. Blakesley & Griffin, who are always found at their posts of duty, ready to wait upon customers, with kind attention and affability. [Note: Nelson Winston and Isaac Bennett’s store was located at 1 West Main Street.]
130 Years Ago (1877): Married. Tolles-Strong—At Evansville, Dec. 31st., by Rev. E. Robinson, Mr. Frank D. Tolles and Miss Kate Isabel Strong, both of Union.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. Elmer Bullard took a car load of stock to Chicago, Tuesday night. He says he has shipped 72 car loads of stock the past year, and paid out to farmers $50,000.
110 Years Ago (1897): C. Babcock of Evansville, Albert Moore, of S. Magnolia, A. Spencer and family and G. Babcock and family spent Xmas at C. W. Moore’s.
100 Years Ago (1907): Owing to the poor health of the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Janes, it has been decided to spend the winter in a more congenial climate. Mr. Janes will stay here with part of the family while Mrs. Janes will try some southern clime. They are packing up their household goods so as to let the new tenant, Mr. Robinson, into their house.
90 Years Ago (1917): After considering several bids, the City Council on Tuesday evening decided to purchase a new Studebaker combination chemical and hose motor truck for the fire department from the Evansville City Garage. The price is to be $1,925, which is $125 lower than the second lowest bid, and the truck is believed to be just as good as the higher-priced ones. The truck, which is strictly up to date, carries two extension ladders, roof ladder, folding hooks, pike poles, 1,000 feet of fire hose, a forty-gallon chemical tank, two hand chemical tanks, axes, crow bars, door-openers and hose shut-off. The truck will weigh about 5,500 pounds. The manufacturer promises delivery within sixty days after the order is placed, which will be the first of next week.
80 Years Ago (1927): The decrease in railroad passenger traffic, especially on the short hauls, is due to the great amount of automobile and motor coach travel, local passenger and freight agent, A. T. Smith said in an interview. “If people continue to travel by bus and in their private cars, there is no question but what they are going to force the railroad companies to discontinue their service, in fact, many trains have already been taken off from branch lines,” he said. “When a great transportation company discontinues its service in a community, the business of that locality is absolutely crippled.” The agent cited this city as a typical example and explained what would happen if railroad traffic here was abandoned. Evansville never had better train service than it now has. At the present time it is benefited by five south bound and four northbound passenger trains daily together with four regular south bound and five northbound freights. All of these trains make connections with all the principle points, north, south, east and west. “What Evansville would do in such a case as the abandonment of the local railroad is only too evident,” he declared.
70 Years Ago (1937): A crowd of nearly 200 enthusiastic sportsmen from Evansville and neighboring cities flocked to the Grange Hall to attend the annual raccoon and venison supper which culminated an eventful season of field trials, raccoon hunting, and other sporting activities. All guests were served promptly without confusion by the ladies of the Waucoma Grange who prepared a most inviting menu to accompany the raccoon and venison roasted by Frank Meredith of Frank’s Café where the supper was served last year. The Evansville chapter of the Izaak Walton League was the first group in the state to introduce annual sportsmen’s banquets and programs and since its first attempt, when only a few were served at a more or less private affair, the suppers have constantly grown in popularity until they are now commended throughout the state and are much anticipated from year to year. Among the Evansville sportsmen who have taken decided interest in planning and sponsoring the banquets from year to year are Dr. J. W. Ames, R. J. Antes, and P. D. Pearsall, who have been untiring in their efforts to make the events a success from both the attendance and financial standpoints.
60 Years Ago (1947): At the extreme north boundary of Evansville, on Highways 13, 14 and 59, Valhalla, an original and distinctive eating place will be open to the public after January first. Mr. and Mrs. Walter Carlsson will conduct Valhalla and serve the meals, which will be upon reservation only. Mr. Carlsson comes from the Drake Hotel in Chicago, where he has had considerable experience in the preparation of foods. Mrs. Carlsson, formerly Miss Sylvia Hatlen, has for some eight years been connected with the serving of foods in Carson Pire and Scott dining room in Chicago.
50 Years Ago (1957): Officer John Whitmore, who has been with the Evansville Police Department eight months, recently began a 10-week police training course at the Janesville court house. There will be sessions devoted to the laws of arrest, crime reporting, criminal investigation, and the laws of Wisconsin. The program is sponsored by the Wisconsin Chiefs of Police Assn. and the Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Assn. in cooperation with the Milwaukee office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
60 Years Ago (1967): WCLO Schooltime listeners would never guess that it was the first day after vacation for members of the Evansville Junior High School French class taught by Mrs. Duane McIlwraith. The students responded to a rapid barrage of questions, never missing a beat, as their peppy French teacher questioned them in French and were answered in that same language. The class rounded out the program with a couple of French songs. The students who introduced themselves in French were Christopher Eager, Paul Pratt, Lisette McCabe, Josette Shea, Charles Heimerl, Anne Rasmussen, Suzanne Hatlevig, Anne Graham, Nannette Thompson, Janine Albright, Susette Dennison, Colette Des Rochers, Catherine Ballmer, Lisette Gallman, Paul Brunsell and Simone Gray. The students are rapidly becoming experts, although they are only in the second year of study of the language. They are 8th graders.
30 Years Ago (1977): Judith Guth graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point on December 19. Six from the Evansville area graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater at the mid-year commencement held December 18. The graduates from the Evansville area included John W. Bryant, Jr. son of Mr. and Mrs. J. Bryant Sr.; Terry D. Bund, son of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Bund; James Gallman, son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Gallman; Wilbur K. Hoesly, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Hoesly; Yvonne J. Meichtry, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Meichtry and Delbert L. Schneeberger, son of Mr. and Mrs. Hans Schneeberger.
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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.
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20 Years Ago (1987): Tom Edwardson, genial manager of the Evansville IGA, has been elected president of the Evansville Chamber of Commerce. He succeeds Marsha Dobbs, who has served in that position for three terms. Other officers names are Jim Martin, vice president; Rowland Straka, re-elected treasurer and Ruth Ann Montgomery, secretary.
10 years ago (1997): Baker Manufacturing is in the process of expanding its office space. A new structure is being tied in just south of the present office building to accommodate accounting and executive offices. The move practically doubles Baker’s office facilities and will provide more space for sales which has been cramped. The project is expected to be completed by the end of February.
In Review
Third Week of January 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): To Farmers. Having recently put into my mill one of Laffel’s Double American Turbine Water Wheels, I am prepared to do all kinds of grinding and give as good quality of work as any mill in the country. Farmers coming from a distance can have their flour immediately to return with. Flour kept constantly on hand and delivered to any part of the village free of charge. C. Raymond.
130 Years Ago (1877): Burchie J., only child of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. C. Taggart, aged nearly one year and a half, died Saturday morning last and was buried Sunday. Funeral at Free Will Baptist church. Sermon by Rev. McKenney.
120 Years Ago (1887): The C. & N. W. railroad company has bought several acres of land at Lyden, and the people of that section are wild with the idea that the car repair shops will be located there instead of Janesville or Evansville.
110 Years Ago (1897): E. P. Colton, who was a representative of the C. & N. W. Ry. at the City Council meeting, stated that the extension of Water St. across the tracks would be a great inconvenience to the company on account of the location of the water tank and coal sheds. The Mayor referred the matter to the City Attorney and committees. The opening of Railroad Street was brought up and the committee reported that the best method, in their judgment was to extend Railroad Street to Water St., but owing the expense necessarily incurred they did not recommend this plan at present. [Note: Railroad Street was renamed Maple Street.]
100 Years Ago (1907): Halstead and Parkin were busy yesterday plowing the ice on the pond east of their ice house, and are now rushing the ice as fast as possible into the ice house. The ice is about fifteen inches thick, and previous to the present cold snap, they have been able to house but a small quantity of ice. The smile on the faces of the gentlemen indicate that they will be able to furnish sufficient ice for their patrons during the coming season.
90 Years Ago (1917): W. F. Biglow has returned from a trip to Des Moines, Iowa, where he purchased of the Des Moines Casket Co. a late model auto hearse, delivery of which is promised April 1. The hearse, which will probably be the only auto hearse in Rock County, was manufactured by the Des Moines Casket Company of which W. H. Antes, formerly of this city, is president and general manager.
80 Years Ago (1927): The men of Evansville turned out royally last Tuesday evening at the Community Club banquet to welcome George Little and our old townsman, Rollie Barnum. There were 134 present at the tables, the dinner being prepared and served by the ladies of the Methodist Church. After the dinner there was a call for “Barney”, and with many blushes, he got up on his feet, and in a very creditable manner thanked the people for the honor of being there and for their honest hearty welcome. He spoke several kindly words for Coach Little and predicted that if he was left alone at the University he would bring about wonderful results in athletics. Coach Little, in his talk, told the people of Evansville that in “Barney” they had a man of whom they had already heard much of on the athletic field and that in his opinion in the future they would hear much more, for they had in him one of the best football and basketball men of his day.
70 Years Ago (1937): Decator DeForrest was reelected president and Warren Brown, vice president, at the annual meeting of the Baker Credit Union held here Tuesday night in the city hall. Other officers are as follows: E. M. Jones, secretary; Clyde Babcock, treasurer; and Leedle Denison, director. The credit committee is composed of Lyle Wells, Charles Thompson, and Robert Fraser. Charles Winsor and Lewis Spencer comprise the new auditing committee. The union, which paid a six per cent dividend on Jan. 2, on the 1936 deposits, now has 110 members, 38 of whom joined during the past year with one withdrawal. A total of 85 members hold fully paid shares with ten partially paid shares. Total Assets of the credit union are $5,770.81.
60 Years Ago (1947): With A. C. Holmes and A. H. Devine serving as installing officers, the following Masons were seated in their stations at a ceremony performed here Tuesday evening in the Masonic temple: George Greenway, worshipful master; Arthur Tomlin, senior warden; B. J. Bakke, junior warden; Don Every, secretary; L. P. Eager, treasurer; Eugene Martin, senior deacon; J. C. McKenna, junior deacon; Stanley Perry, chaplain; M. V. Allen and Edwin Devine, stewards, and William Phelps, tyler.
50 Years Ago (1957): New officers of the Home Gardeners club are Mrs. Byron Holmes, president; Mrs. Paul Phillipson, vice president; Mrs. Phil Klitzman, secretary-treasurer.
60 Years Ago (1967): Airman Tom S. Cain, son of Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Cain, Evansville has been assigned to Vandenberg AFB, Calif., after completing Air Force basic training in San Antonio. The airman, a 1962 graduate of Evansville High School, will be trained on the job as a communications specialist with the Strategic Air Command. Airman Cain attended Wisconsin State College at Whitewater.
30 Years Ago (1977): .Ms. Brenda Martin is the new vocal music instructor at Evansville Middle School. Ms. Martin will take over for Miss Lois Schmidt at the Middle School while Miss Schmidt moves to the high school to replace Mrs. Lynn Panosh, who left Evansville school system to join her husband at his new job at the Performing Arts Center in Milwaukee. Ms. Martin’s duties as middle school vocal music instructor will include directing three choirs, teaching a general music class covering music appreciation, theory and composition; and directing the Middle Schools’ production of the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, HMS Pinafore, at the Middle School this spring. Miss Martin taught for one year at the River Falls, Wis., Jr. High and has worked with the Madison Civic Opera and the Madison Savoyards. She is on the executive board of the Savoyards and most recently appeared as Kate in the Savoyard’s production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s, The Pirates of Penazance, last summer in Madison. She also appeared as Pitti Sing in the Savoyard’s production of The Mikado. She has also been a member of the Madison Festival Choir and taught private voice lessons. Miss Martin is originally from Bloomington, Wis. and holds a degree in Music Education from UW-Platteville.
20 Years Ago (1987): Seventh grader Rachel Mackie is one of the 270 talented young musicians from 68 schools, 37 cities and 12 counties of southern Wisconsin who take part in the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestras. She plays in the Philharmonic Orchestra now in their 21st season. Rachel, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Mackie began studying cello at the age of three and a half, in Janesville, while attending a Montessori School. She was introduced to the Suzuki method which teaches very young children to play the violin, cello, or piano. Mrs. Mackie (Michelle) plays the cello. She felt she could help her daughter with an instrument she knew. Rachel is currently a student of Martha Pickart in Beloit. Rachel’s brother, Rob, 8 ½ also plays the cello.
10 years ago (1997): Two candidates have surfaced for the position of Supervisor in the Town of Union. Kendall Schneider and Donald Elmer are both seeking the seat being vacated by Norman Hatlen, who has chosen not to seek re-election. Other candidates seeking offices are Supervisor incumbent Dean George, who is unopposed; Chairman Wayne Disch; Sharon Franklin, Treasurer; and Linda O’Leary, Clerk.
In Review
Fourth Week of January 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): James S. Carle came here from Center some two years ago, and engaged in business with Mr. Alex Winston, but after a brief partnership purchased the entire interest, and became sole proprietor. Goods at this time were at war prices but soon went down, leaving a small margin for profits, but with energy and capitol combined, Mr. Carle has kept up, and now informs us that “he is doing well.” He proposes at the present time to close out his goods, sell his store and move to Missouri, but circumstances may change his purposes, when he will re-enter the business with a full stock of general merchandise. He is now selling goods at reduced rates and consequently obtains a large trade just at this time.
130 Years Ago (1877): By the failure of Mr. Hoffman, a banker and real estate dealer of Elk Point, Dakota, quite a number of our moneyed citizens are brought into the limbos. Upwards of $40,000, we hear, has been sent to that man for investment, on individual security, and the prospects are now that they will not realize over twenty-five per cent, on their loans, and this after a tedious adjudication in bankrupt court. We understand further, that this whole affair was brought about by the secret workings of one person which makes the case more distressing than it otherwise would have been.
120 Years Ago (1887): Notices were posted Wednesday for a special town meeting to be held at the town hall, Saturday, February 5th, to see if the town of Union will vote to be separated from the village of Evansville. The matter of separation is being somewhat agitated with a view to that project, but as near as we can learn, a small faction of the voters of the town of Union are favorable to it. There can be no reasonable demand on the score of finance, for there is no town in the county whose business is managed with better economy than Union. There would be a greater distribution of town offices to be sure, but they are barren of any great emoluments. The expenses of the town shall go if it wants to, and “bid it God’s speed,” but the movement looks to be unwise and savors of jealousy on the part of a very few more than wise financiering. The village does not vote upon the question but if carried by the town then the village will be called on to give its consent. The great question of the secession was pretty well argued in the 60s’ and it was found that both parties must consent to an agreement of separation.
110 Years Ago (1897): About 7 o’clock Thursday evening, Mrs. Ray Gillman locked her part of the house and went into the other part occupied by her daughter, who is sick. A few minutes later Fred Gillman and Clint Scofield started down town, when Fred noticed the front door to his mother’s part of the house open and went back and shut it, but suspicious of something wrong went in and found the back doors, which were left locked, all unlocked and open, and heard someone run out the back way across the garden. Mr. Stevens’ son, who lives next door heard someone run also, but nothing has been missed from the house. In all probability they were frightened away before completing their job, and it is thought that it was some one well acquainted, who thought Mrs. Gillman was at her husband’s store, where she spends nearly every evening.
100 Years Ago (1907): Invitations are issued for the wedding of Miss Matilda Acheson to Charles A. Gibson at the home of the bride’s parents in Magnolia, on Thursday, Feb. 14. The couple will make their home in South Dakota.
90 Years Ago (1917): The Saxon garage, under the proprietorship of Harry Loomis and W. J. Rowley, is carrying an announcement in this issue of the Review. The handsome new garage, which is located on the lot west of the Central House, will probably be formally opened with a dance about February 1. As its name implies, the garage will be headquarters for the Saxon car. Mr. Loomis was formerly manager of the Central House, and Mr. Rowley was foreman of the Bucyrus foundry, in Milwaukee, for a long time.
80 Years Ago (1927): Announcements have been received here by relatives and friends of the marriage of Leslie Miles, Madison, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chauncey Miles of this city to Myrtle Antoinette Skrenes, also of Madison, which took place Jan 15. They are making their home in Madison
70 Years Ago (1937): A state crew which was at work here Thursday and Monday seining Lake Leota in an effort to put the body of water in better condition for the production of game fish, removed approximately 15,000 pounds of carp which were hauled in live trucks to a storage pond at Lake Koshkonong from where they will later either be shipped to the New York market or canned for fish and animal food. Employment of state crews in this work is a comparatively new enterprise. Under the direction of Robert A. Gray state crews are making every effort to remove small as well as large carp. Wisconsin’s expanded game fish program and extensive operations at the Experimental Game and Fur farm, Poynette, requires many tons of food. The conservation department has established a canning plant on the grounds of the Madison fish hatchery. Canned carp is fed to young game fish and has also become part of the diet of animals at the state farm. Carp came to the United States and Wisconsin a half century ago when it was felt that they would make a valuable addition to the fish life in this country. They were brought in and propagated by the U. S. Department of Fisheries. They are prized for food in Europe and Asia. Carp had no more than become established in this country than people found that they were undesirable and there has been a persistent demand to get rid of them ever since. Carp slow down the production of game fish and interfere with spawning grounds and weed beds that harbor small fish and eradicate weed beds that furnish a necessary food supply for aquatic waterfowl.
60 Years Ago (1947): The 11th annual meeting of St. John’s Lutheran Church was held last Friday evening in the parish house under the chairmanship of the Rev. A. M. Romstad. Reports of the past year were ready. New council members elected are Ray Rosen, Robert Turner, Alf Algrim, and Stanley Jensen. The other eight members whose terms have not expired are Harold Spersrud, Howard Becher, Arthur Lee, Ernest Edwards, Gilman Spersrud, Ernest Kopp, Leo Brunsell and Lester Patterson. Mrs. Harold Spersrud was reelected superintendent of the Saturday religious school, in charge of the junior department and Mrs. Robert Turner was reelected superintendent of the senior department. The pastor reported an enrollment of 132 in Saturday school. Miss Annette Hyne was reappointed office secretary; Mrs. E. M. Cannelin, organist, and Otto Guse and Chris Olson, custodians of buildings and grounds. Rev. Romstad reported the following facts: congregational membership, 408; communion services, 12; marriages, 15; burials, 6; infant baptisms, 17; adult baptisms, 5; juniors confirmed, 11; adults confirmed 9.
50 Years Ago (1957): Four new directors were elected by Evansville Chamber of Commerce: Mrs. Dee Losey, Ray Knapp, Ben Green and Dr. E. W. Krueger.
60 Years Ago (1967): Master Sgt. Marvin F. Hollibush, son of Mrs. Anamae Dobbs is now serving in Vietnam. He is a supply inventory specialist and a member of the Pacific Air Force which provides air power to maintain the U. S. defense posture in the Pacific and conducts air operations in Southeast Asia. Hollibush is a Korean War veteran and attended Evansville High School. His wife, Mary is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Wagner of Milwaukee.
30 Years Ago (1977): William Wood, 328 W. Main, Evansville, who has been the business manager for the Evansville School District for twelve years, is retiring at the end of the present school year. Mr. Wood, who is 66, said he thought it was just getting to be time to retire and let another person take over his job and responsibilities. Mr. Wood first came to his present job in 1965 after working since 1947 at the Evansville City Hall. While employed by the City, he was in charge of the Water and Light Department accounts. When J. C. McKenna left his post as school business manager, Mr. Wood stepped in. Mr. Wood is a life-long resident of the Evansville area, except for the time away from the city during military service. He has served under six superintendents and said his work at the school and his association with both the administrative and faculty staff has been, for the larger part, pleasant and productive.
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20 Years Ago (1987): This year’s AFC students Helga Schepers of Belgium and Andres Torrel of Sweden, will present a slide program and talk about their native countries and experiences. The public is invited to this presentation which will be next Sunday evening, January 18 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul’s Catholic Church.
10 years ago (1997): The ballot for the city election April 1 will have two vacancies. No one filed papers for the 3rd Ward and for the 1st Ward one year vacancy. Former city councilman Dale Bryant has filed for a two-year 4th Ward seat. He will vie with incumbent Ron Jennings, who has filed for re-election. Thomas Cothard has filed for re-election in Ward 2 and Thane Anderson, newly appointed to the 1st Ward vacancy, created by the resignation of Eric Pease, has filed for this position.
In Review
Last Week of January – First Week of February 1867-1997
140 Years Ago (1867): Married. At Allen’s Grove, on the 24th inst. At the residence of the bride’s mother, by Rev. R. W. Bosworth, Mr. C. H. Wilder, of Evansville, to Miss Nettie B. Lee.
130 Years Ago (1877): Mr. Landon’s family awoke Monday morning with an unusual amount of headache on hand, but did not smell the cause until about breakfast time when they discovered that the cover of the coal stove had been left slightly ajar. They felt themselves fortunate that a door leading into another apartment on the house had been left open, where most of the gas escaped.
120 Years Ago (1887): Mr. Aller loaded up what few collaterals he needed Tuesday, and hied away to Johnstown, to take the superintendency of Rock county poor farm. Few people, one year ago, ever thought our wealthy and honored citizen would be obliged to go to the county poor house to be supported at the county’s expense but such is the real fact. The county thought him to be the best man it had for the place, however, both his old neighbors and towns people were to part with him. Mr. Aller leaves sharing the good wishes of all and has the confidence and hope of the balance of the county that he is just the man for that place. [Note: Peter Aller was the superintendent of the Rock County Poor Farm and Insane Asylum for many years, first at Johnstown and later at Janesville. His son, Arthur P. Aller, was associated with his father in the management of the facility and in 1900 was appointed as steward for the Northern Asylum for the Insane at Oshkosh.]
110 Years Ago (1897): Lawrence Huff, of Magnolia, has traded farms with E. P. Wixom, of Janesville, Mr. Wixom trading his sixty-eight acres for Mr. Huff’s two hundred acres. Both farms are in the town of Magnolia. The transaction comprised $15,000 of property value.
100 Years Ago (1907): A Rambler model twenty-one was received by the local agent of that machine, Clarence Baker, Tuesday and notwithstanding the unsatisfactory conditions of the roads, made good showing upon our streets that day. This machine is commonly known as general utility cars, and is in marked advance of any machine yet turned out. The body of model twenty-one is a strictly new design of the convertible type, in which the connection between the detachable tonneau and forward part of the body is so designed that the unpleasant appearance of earlier convertible bodies is entirely overcome. The price of this car is $1,350 and it is a beauty.
90 Years Ago (1917): On Tuesday evening a farewell reception was given Rev. Leroy A. Jahn, at the home of Mrs. C. E. Lee, on First Street. There was a large company present, including the members of St. John’s Episcopal Church, members of the boys’ vested choir and the Sunday School. Musical numbers were given, refreshments were served, and a most pleasant evening was enjoyed by all present. Rev. Jahn has been rector of St. John’s Episcopal church for nearly three years, and during that time has won a wide circle of friends who regret his departure; he has done splendid work in the Sunday School and with the choir boys, as well as with the boy scouts, and he will be greatly missed by these young lads. Rev. Jahn took his departure Wednesday for Elkhorn, where he has accepted a call as rector of St. John’s church in that city, which has a much larger congregation than the local church. His departure will be felt in the city, as well as in his church, yet his numerous friends rejoice that he was extended the call to take charge of the Elkhorn church, and wish him every possible success in his new field of labor. A student from Nashota will have charge of the Sunday services at the local church.
80 Years Ago (1927): Clar L. Franklin, daughter of Samuel and Sarah Franklin was born, February 15, 1864, in the town of Union and departed from this life January 21, 1297. She has resided most of her life in the township of Rutland. On March 13, 1887, she was united in marriage to Burr Courtier, who is left with three children, Erle L., Mrs. Oliver Chapin, Mrs. Wm. Leeder and five grandchildren to mourn her loss. She also leaves five brothers, Arthur, Lew, Frank, Fred, and Leon Franklin. Since her early life she has been a member of the Union Baptist church. She was a member of the Columbia Chapter, 29, O.E.S., and the W.C.T.U., of Brooklyn. The funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the Masonic Temple, when after the sermon by the Rev. Pratt of the Baptist Church, the Order of the Eastern Star, rendered their beautiful service in honor of their departed sister. Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.
70 Years Ago (1937): For the first time since 1929 when business conditions were at their height, the Baker Manufacturing Company, Evansville leading industrial plant, is operating on a six-day; 48-hour per week schedule. The new time schedule went into effect the week of Jan. 10 and will be continued indefinitely in order to build up sufficient warehouse stock to take care of spring orders. In order to keep up with production, several new men have also been added to the factory force which now numbers nearly 130 employees.
60 Years Ago (1947): Despite yesterday’s blizzard, a large crowd of farmers were in the city attending the Farmer’s Institute held as an all-day meeting in the Rex Theatre under the sponsorship o the Rock County Agent.
50 Years Ago (1957): About 200 people turned out last Thursday for the annual meeting of the Union Co-operative Assn., meetings at the Masonic Temple. Franklin Leeder was named president; Louis Nelson, Oregon, vice-president; Morris Gilbertson, secretary; Dean George and Oliver Franklin directors.
60 Years Ago (1967): Six months ahead of schedule, Kim Gill, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Gill, will receive his diploma at the U. S. Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, L. I., on February 10. The graduation marks the realization of a childhood ambition for him. He will immediately enter the merchant service to fulfill his military obligation. Because of the trained manpower shortage, the training course will be completed next month instead of next August, the normal time. Gill will receive his certificate of third mate rating, and his commission as an ensign in the naval reserve at the ceremonies. He graduated from Evansville High School in 1963, and was appointed to the academy by Sen. William Proxmire. He will be the only youth from the Evansville community ever to graduate there.
30 Years Ago (1977): Last Sunday at 11:30 a.m. 19 snowmobiles and 29 people departed from the Red Barn in Evansville for a ride to Indianford. New fallen snow, during the night enhanced the 40-mile round trip of the local riders. The ride is the Shrine Annual Snowmobile Drive for Shrine Charities. The Evansville Sno-Devils on the drive were Mr. and Mrs. John Edwards, Mr. and Mrs. Jud Spooner, Curt Hartzler, Sue Moe, Ron Phelps, Ken Schmidt and son, Tom; Ruth Thompson, Les Golz, Mr. and Mrs. George Howard, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Kueng, Mr. and Mrs. Chris Dickert, Mr. and Mrs. Russell Jeske, Mr. and Mrs. Reggie Huffel, and two children; Mr. and Mrs. William Heritage and two children, Ron Buttchen and Kathy Garvoille.
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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.