IN REVIEW
Archives from last week March with years ending in 5
Compiled from the Evansville Review by Ruth Ann Montgomery

Last Week of March 1875-1995

130 Years Ago (1875):   We understand Mr. David Johnson has purchased, (or about to do so) the H. M. Allen place, situated near the County line, Northwest of Evansville.  It is one of the best farms in the country and contains 318 acres.  The value of the farm is about $6,000.  We are not advised of the amount Mr. Johnson is to pay.

120 Years Ago (1885):     Messrs. J. Wilson and Michael Fay, of Sugar River, brought into town three fine loads of sheep which they sold to B. W. Hubbard at an average price of $3,50 a head.  The same party also bought 18 head of cattle of Wm. Porter, of Cooksville that averaged 1875 lbs each.  They were all shipped to Chicago.

110 Years Ago (1895):  There was a quiet little wedding at the Methodist parsonage Wednesday afternoon, the Rev. J. Scott Davis officiating.  The contracting parties were Mr. Oscar Sayles and Miss Ida May Bahr, both well known young people of Magnolia.  Mr. Wm. S. Kinsey and Alena Bahr acted as best man and bride’s maid.  Mr. and Mrs. Sayles will make their future home upon the farm in Center, about eight miles from this city.

100 Years Ago (1905):  Mrs. Sarah Meehen of the town of Magnolia, died at the age of 83 years, 10 months, 14 days.  Mrs. Sarah Meehen (Nee McClerning) was born in Crosswell county Galway, Ireland, May 7, 1821.  She was married to Patrick Meehen March 1, 1845, eight children were born to them, four boys and four girls.  Two boys and a girl preceded them to the other world.  Her husband died September 29, 1881 and was buried with his three children in Kelbegnat, Ireland.  She came to America in 1882 and resided with her family in Chicago.  She moved to Magnolia Wis., several years ago where she died March 21, 1905, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Wm. Finnane.

90 Years Ago (1915): Mrs. I. H. Gorrel, proprietor of the Evansville greenhouse, has her Easter headquarters in the Collins poultry store, opposite the Grange store.  There she has a fine display of Easter lilies, daffodils, hyacinths, rambler roses, etc., that are a joy of all lovers of flowers.  There a fine lot of cut flowers may also be found.  Mrs. Gorrel has built up a fine business with her flowers and deserves the support of Evansville folk.
80 Years Ago (1925):  Miss Beatrice Dell, Evansville, youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Dell and Elmont Place, Watertown, were married last Saturday in Watertown.  The couple will spend a few days visiting the bride’s parents here, after which they will make their home in Watertown.

70 Years Ago (1935):   Arden Westby of the second grade brought his guitar Friday and played for the music class.  Jerald Schucht, Roland Gundlach, Joyce Meredith, Vincent Vreeland, Jerry Johnson have returned to school after being ill.

60 Years Ago (1945):   With Our Service Men:  Jack Heffel, son of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Heffel has entered the armed forces and is taking training on Shepard Field, Texas.  Tommy Devine received a signet ring Tuesday from his father, S/Sgt. Lewis Devine, who is serving with the Third army in Germany.  A friend of Sgt. Devine made the ring from a small piece of aluminum taken from a captured German airplane.  Lt. and Mrs. Robert Olsen are spending a leave here with the former’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. George Olsen.  Lt. Olsen was graduated last Thursday at Carlsbad, New Mexico and was commissioned second lieutenant.

50 Years Ago (1955): Evansville Community Theatre will complete its tenth year with the presentation of “Bell, Book and Candle” sometime in May.  The play will be directed by veteran director, John Kennedy.  Additional stage crew members are needed for the play; anyone interested can call Bernie Kovars or Mark Bruce.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Mike Schuster, son of Mr. and Mrs. William Schuster, Evansville, was chosen by the coaches of the conference for All Suburban Honors.  Mike played basketball for four years at Evansville, playing varsity ball for the last two years, JV for two years prior. This year Mike accounted for 201 of the team’s total points.  Most of these were made from pretty far out and this total is only in the conference play.  Mike plans to attend La Crosse State University in the fall.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Citizens with questions about the renovation of the old city hall and the proposed building of a new one are invited to an informational meeting next Tuesday.  City engineer Lloyd Jensen and other city officials will answer questions.  The April 1 advisory referendum will state the following:  “Shall the city build a new city hall at a cost of approximately $145,000 to $170,000?”  Alderman John Jones, Jr. reports that it would cost $45,600 for exterior work alone on the old building.  The exterior, particularly the bell tower, must be repaired according to a state order.  If a new city hall were built, money borrowed for 10 years would increase taxes.  Taxes for the past year were based on $11.51 per thousand.  An increase to between $12.42 and $12.65 per thousand would probably result.

20 Years Ago (1985):   Calamity Jane is going to hit Evansville on April 12, 13, and 14.  Cindy Arnold, a senior, has the female lead in this year’s musical.  Cindy is Calamity Jane.  David DeKelver, a senior, has this year’s male lead, Wild Bill Hickok.  Christia Baumberger, a sophomore, plays the part of Katie. Jane Schwartz a senior at EHS is Adelaid.  A junior, Ron Purkapile, portrays Henry Miller, a neurotic saloon owner.  Darren Westphal plays Danny Gilmartin.  Mark Walmer, a freshman plays Francis Fryer.  Jeannie Rohloff plays Susan, the saloon owner’s niece.  Other members of the cast include Heidi Krueger, Mark Walker, Jack Pierce, Butch Koch, Marie Luers, Kathy Roberts, JoAnn Manke, Kathy Hazlett, Joanna Knuckles, Kathy Van Blaricom, Sally Schneeberger, Katie Grimes, Brenda Hughes, Greg Wahl, Tracy Neuenschwander, Wendy Krueger, Jan Bue, Nancy Jeans, and Kathryn Lawrenz.

10 years ago (1995):  “Anything Goes” is this year’s musical.  Billy Crocker is played by Andrew Kress and Meg Krake plays Hope Harcourt.  Others in the cast are Carrie Rabuck, Jason Houtsinger, Karla Olsen, Erica Brewer, Sara Doering, Libby Amato, Kimberly Maxwell, Maury Bauer, Kyle Schneider, Melissa Hughes, and Don Franklin.  “Anything Goes” will be playing April 28, 29, and 30th in the middle school auditorium.

In Review  First Week of April 1875 - 1995

130 Years Ago (1875):  Mr. Gillman has mounted a Monitor Wind Mill on the top of his livery stable.  Hereafter pumping water for stock and carriage cleaning will be easy labor.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Mr. and Mrs. Caleb Snashall departed yesterday for Iowa, where they expect to remain four or five weeks.  Mr. Snashall will look after the windmill business, and Mrs. Snashall will visit with her sister, Mrs. Bingham, at Ames.

110 Years Ago (1895):  Geo. W. Hall, Jr.  Great Trained Animals Show, Museum and Menagerie will exhibit at Evansville, Wis., on Saturday May 4, 1895, afternoon and evening.   Having purchased elephants, camels and menagerie departments of Col. Geo. W. Hall, also the only living gorilla in America, three performing elephants, Queen, Empress and Palm, in the menagerie department, 16 cages of wild animals, 3 elephants, 4  camels, elephant headed ox, sacred cow and a first –class ring performance.  The admission to the entire show will be 25 cents.  Children under 9 years 15 cents.

100 Years Ago (1905):  MARRIED.  William Farnsworth and Miss Frances Lamb, both of Brooklyn, were married in Rockford April 19th, by Rev. Sheets.  Upon their return from that city, they spent a few days with relatives here.

90 Years Ago (1915):  Eustace Parker, formerly an Evansville boy, now the city engineer of Madison, spent Sunday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Powles.

80 Years Ago (1925):  Fred Luchsinger this week shipped a car load of grade Holsteins to Clown Gromman, Plainfield, Ill.  This is the second car that Mr. Luchsinger has shipped to the same party this spring.

70 Years Ago (1935):   A group of Evansville Knights Templar and their families were in Edgerton Sunday afternoon attending a special Easter service in the Methodist church.  Among those in attendance were Mr. and Mrs. V. A. Axtell, Dr. and Mrs. J. W. Ames, Mr. and Mrs. R. L. Collins, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Devine, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Fellows, Frank Crow, Miss Blanche Crow, Mr. and Mrs. William Fleming, the Rev. and Mrs. G. Kenneth MacInnis, and Miss Myra MacInnis.

60 Years Ago (1945):   Preparations are going forward this week for the annual junior prom, the social highlight of the school year, to be held Friday evening, May 4, in the high school gymnasium which is being transformed for the occasion into a Fiesta.  Prom king, Jack Meredith, son of Mrs. William Meredith, Evansville has chosen Anne Fellows, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Fellows, this city as queen of the 1945 promenade.

50 Years Ago (1955): Stockholders of the Evansville Mercantile Association, the Grange Store, Tuesday night voted to sell the famous store to William C. Brunsell and Nimmer J. Adamany.  The stockholder action, followed by a payment by the purchasers, made possible official announcement of a transaction which had been rumored for some time.  The approximately 30 employees of the store were to be officially notified of the sale by A. C. Holmes, the manager, at a meeting following the close of business Wednesday.  The new management indicated that by and large the same personnel will continue to be employed at the store, ending some speculation by employees as to their status under new ownership.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Competing at the State music Festival are:  Carol Maas, Karen Howard, Marilyn Rowald, Sandy Williams, Lynda Showers, Ann Rasmussen, Ann Zweifel, Janeen Cufaude, Roby Morrison, Nancy LaMont and Diane Walsh.

30 Years Ago (1975):  The local electorate registered a resounding “NO” on the local referendums revealing an economy streak here in this area as well as nationally.  Voters turned “thumbs down” on the new city hall proposal by nearly a 3 to 1 margin.  The referendum asked the voters whether or not to spend $145,000 to $170,000 on a new city hall building.  Although the school referendum fared somewhat better, throughout Joint School District No. 6, the proposal to borrow $595,000 through a bond issue to remodel the facilities at the three Evansville schools lost in all precincts.

20 Years Ago (1985):  On Friday, April 26, the Evansville Fire Department was called to Highway 184 south of Leyden where the train apparently had started several grass fires along the tracks.  On Saturday morning the department was again called out at 6:00 a.m. to the Eugene Crull farm on Highway 14 eat of Evansville where a corn picker was destroyed by fire.  According to Fire Chief Charles Nordeng, the fire was probably caused by a leak on the gas line.

10 years ago (1995):  High winds on Tuesday of last week, caused problems for Rock County residents.  Nine transmission-line poles located on Hwy. 59, were blown down from the high winds.  There were 10,000 customers out of power in Evansville, Orfordville, Footville, and Brodhead.

Second Week of April 1875 - 1995
 

130 Years Ago (1875):   Mr. J. Lyman Hosley, one of the old residents of Union, died April 2nd, after a long and painful illness.  Mr. H. has been helpless for several years, so that it has been needful to feed him as though he were an infant child.  His mental faculties were quite perfect to the last.  He has carried on his business all the while, although whenever he went over his farm he was carried like a child.  Mr. H. was a well known citizen, of strict integrity and uprightness of character and though not often seen out, will be much missed.  He always took an interest in public affairs, and kept himself so well informed that his judgment could always be relied upon as sound.  He leaves a wife and daughter greatly bereaved and will be missed all the more by them as he was so great a care to them while living.  Funeral and burial service in the Baptist church, conducted by Pastor Kimball.

120 Years Ago (1885):  It is the intention of Mr. George Magee to build a new store just east of the hall for Mr. John F. Rice of Delavan, who will fill it with a fine stock of drugs.  The building is to be two stories high 22 x 48, plate glass front.  [This is the store at 24 East Main, currently the Vele Law Office.]

110 Years Ago (1895):  Mr. Roy Munger was married on last Saturday evening to Miss Maggie Francis, at the F. W. Baptist parsonage, by the Rev. J. C. Steele.  Mr. Wm. E. Steele of this city and Miss Nellie Patchin of Brooklyn were united in marriage by the Rev. J. C. Steele on April 2nd, 1895.

100 Years Ago (1905):  Ezra A. Glidden, son of Mrs. D. H. Glidden and Miss Effie Blackmun, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Blackmun, were married at the home of the bride's parents, Wednesday evening, March 29, 1905, by Rev. E. A. Ralph.  They will reside with the groom's mother.  Both young people are well and favorably known, and a large circle of friends wish them a life of happiness and prosperity.  On Thursday evening, the Baker Military Band, of which Mr. Glidden is a member, gave the newly wedded couple a serenade; after several selections had been rendered, dainty refreshments were served and a pleasant time was enjoyed.

90 Years Ago (1915): Mr. Archie McKinney and Miss Martha Grunzel were married Saturday in Janesville by the Rev. Joseph Hazen, pastor of the First Baptist Church.  The couple were attended by Mr. and Mrs. Robert McCoy.  Mr. and Mrs. McKinney returned in the evening to Evansville, going immediately to their new home on North Madison Street, known as the H. Schleim property.
80 Years Ago (1925):  Mr. Copeland of Footville, who last fall purchased the Van Wormer lot on the corner of North Madison and Park Streets this week started building a large filling station on that corner.  It is understood that the building will be of Kellastone, with a tile roof.  S. C. Brown has the contract for the foundation and drives, and John Hanson for the main building.  The building is well under way and will be ready for business soon.
70 Years Ago (1935):   Marvin Janes, who spent the past several weeks at the baseball school sponsored by the Sporting News at Hot Springs, Arkansas, is back in Evansivlle, waiting for the opening of the training season in the Northern league.  While in the south, Marv signed a contract to play with Crookston, Minnesota, during the coming year.  Janes’ showing at the Arkansas camp was exceptionally auspicious, the young slugger piling up a batting average of .439 in 21 games.

60 Years Ago (1945):   Francis J. Kelly, AMM2c, USNR, formerly employed by Inmans Standard Service, is spending a 20 day leave with his parents at 459 Almeron St.  He has been aboard one of the Navy’s Fast Carriers as a machinist in the Air Department during all of the Third and Fifth Fleet operations from the Wake Island Raid in October 1943 to the strikes on Tokyo in February of this year.  During this period, he experienced many Japanese aerial attacks and took part in the Battle of the Philippine Sea and the Battle for Leyte Gulf.

50 Years Ago (1955): School transportation problems occupied most of the school board’s time at its regular May meeting Tuesday night.  Norman Bone and Hilbert Fenrich appeared to discuss the school bus problem.  Bone now operates a bus of his own for the district and Fenrich has expressed interest in handling the other two school bus routes.  The board for some time has expressed interest in turning the bus operation over to private contractors, if this can be done without increasing costs, which it appears may be possible.  Legal questions in regard to disposal of the busses the district now owns must be settled before commitments can be made, but the board was hoping to have these out of the way, so that a final decision could be made in the very near future.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Mr. and Mrs. Juan DePedro, son Hugo and daughter Gladys, arrived in Evansville Monday to make their home here.  The DePedro family flew from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Saturday night to New York.  From there they traveled by bus to Chicago where Mrs. Clark Prudhon and son, Gene, met them Monday morning and drove them to Evansville.  Hugo, who was Evansville’s 1964 AFS student, is here on a student visa as he plans to enter the University of Wisconsin in September.  Mr. and Mrs. DePedro and Gladys are here on immigration visas.  The DePedro’s are guests at the Clark Prudhon home until they can get situated here in Evansville.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Angela Wyse and J. Peter Shaw are bowing out of the musicals presented at Evansville High School with this performance of “Oklahoma.”  They have directed the plays and musicals for the past 10 years, the first one being “Oklahoma.”  Appropriately they chose the same musical for their retirement play.  Leading members of the cast are Denise Artis, Mark Hull, Chris Brown, David Goodspeed, Steve Parish, Al Bosshart, Rich Baldwin, Linda Milbrant, Terry O’Malley, Wendy Gallman, Roger Gray, John Jordan.

20 Years Ago (1985):   Ice caused limbs and wires to be downed on Palm Sunday, affecting the western part of Evansville and Green County.  According to Verne Gallman, Supt. of Water and Light, a section of Evansville was without power for four hours from 9:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., while others noted the inconvenience from midnight to early Sunday morning.  Full power for everyone did not return until 3:30 p.m.

10 years ago (1995):  Lee Winch, Evansville, has been named a Melvin Jones Fellow by Lions Club International Foundation, in recognition of his commitment to serving the world community.  Lee a member of the Evansville Lions Club, recently received a finely crafted plaque and lapel pin acknowledging his dedication to the foundation’s humanitarian goals.

Third Week in April 1875-1995
 

130 Years Ago (1875):   Mr. J. Owen has sold his beautiful residence on Church Street to Mr. Reuben Johnson, receiving therefore $1,800.  This sale necessitates the vacancy by Mr. Darling who has occupied the premises the past winter, but we hope it will not require his removal from town.  [This house is at 128 West Church Street.  Joshua M. Owen is also mentioned in the 1885 article this week.]

120 Years Ago (1885  Mr. J. M. Owen has bought the Commercial Hotel for $2,800.  Mr. Owen is a first class landlord by nature and we are glad to note his success. [Josh Owen owned the Commercial House hotel for more than thirty years, currently the Bauerhaus.]

110 Years Ago (1895):  Married:  At the residence of Mr. V. C. Holmes, Miss Emma Shreve and Mr. William G. Patterson, Wednesday evening, April 10, 1895, by the Rev. J. Scott Davis.  About fifty intimate friends had the pleasure of witnessing the ceremony that made Miss Emma Shreve and Mr. Wm. Patterson man and wife.  Soon after eight o’clock Leon Patterson began to play the wedding march and the bridal couple accompanied by Mr. Fred Hatfield and Miss Jennie Baldwin, entered.  The bride was dressed in lemon colored silk and Miss Baldwin wore white.  The Methodist Episcopal service was impressively pronounced by the pastor, following which were the customary congratulations.  Mrs. Patterson has lived with Mr. and Mrs. Holmes for some years and was considered one of the family, and no pains have been spared by these friends to make her wedding a delightful occasion and a pleasant memory.  Mr. and Mrs. Patterson left Thursday morning for a visit to Mrs. Patterson’s old home in Debello, Wis.  After they return they will live in apartments in the house of Mr. W. H. Doolittle on Second Street.

100 Years Ago (1905):  Results of Town Of Union Election:  For Supervisors, Ira Jones, J. C. Ellis and Thomas Steele; Clerk, C. E. Brooke; for Treasurer; V. C. Holmes;  Assessor, I. H. Brink; Justice of the Peace, S H. Frost; Constable, W. E. Steele.

90 Years Ago (1915):  It is time now to stop living in the past and talking of what might have been.  It was done and it cannot be undone.  But Lake Leota can be restored and made more beautiful than ever.  It is simply up to the citizens of Evansville.  We need it as a place of recreation.  Many of the people of Evansville cannot afford to go away for a part of the summer, and Lake Leota will give them a fine place for an outing, a place for picnics.  We need it as a source of pure ice supply.  It would be worth the cost to the city just for that alone.  We need it to help furnish electric power and to cut down city expenses.  We can have it.  Do you want it?  Then get out and talk for it and when the time comes vote for Lake Leota.  [Note: The mill pond, Lake Leota, had been destroyed about 1900 and the land was privately owned.  There was a public outcry to restore the lake.  In 1915, plans for restoring a 56-acre lake were submitted by Mr. E. R. Parsons, city engineer.  Cost estimates for a concrete dam were up to $15,000.  The lake was not restored until 1923.]

80 Years Ago (1925): Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Hansen, announce the marriage on April 11th, at Louisville, Kentucky, of their eldest daughter, Dorothy, to Arthur J. Kramer of Corydon, Indiana.  Mrs. Kramer is a graduate of our local high school with the class of 1919 and also of the Art Institute of Chicago.  The past year she has taught art in the public school of Detroit.  Mr. Kramer is a graduate of Northwestern University and is also a teacher.

70 Years Ago (1935):   Announcement has been made this week of the marriage of Miss Bernice Schuster, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. R. E. Schuster, 115 East Main Street to Kenneth Cain, son of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Cain, South Madison Street, which ceremony was performed at 11 a.m. last Thursday by Judge Harold D. James in Freeport, Ill.  They were unattended.  The bride was attired in a suit of blue tree bark with lace jacket and matching accessories. She was graduated from the Evansville High School last June and while in school was a member of the Girl’s Athletic Association and the Girl’s Glee Club and took an active part in dramatics.  The groom, who was graduated from the local high school in 1933, was a prominent member of the varsity football, basketball and baseball teams.  Mr. and Mrs. Cain are making their home with the latter’s parents for the present at 115 East Main.

60 Years Ago (1945):   Mr. and Mrs. Earl Knappenberger, this city, received a telegram Wednesday morning from the Provost Marshal General with the following message:  “The following enemy propaganda broadcast from the Japanese government has been intercepted.  “Dear Folks, just a few lines to let you know I am well and hope you are the same.  I am enjoying good health and my spirits are fine.  My best wishes to all.  Am sure hoping to see you soon.  Love, Ralph W. Knappenberger.”  Knappenberger enlisted in the coast guard early in 1941 and was located in Corregidor when it fell into the hands of the Japanese.  He was in a prison camp in the Philippines until last June when he was moved to Japan.”

50 Years Ago (1955): Evansville high school’s baseball squad, champion of the 1954 Badger conference, begins 1955 season play Monday, April 25, at Edgerton.  The conference starter will quickly be followed up by a game at Stoughton April 28, and another in Middleton, May 2.  Seven letter winners on last year’s championship squad will return to the diamond for action again this year.  They are Larry Amidon, Dick Meyers, Mickey Finnane, Doug Hull, Ron Peckham, Rollie Zilliox and Ron Brigham.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Evansville folks are still buzzing about the tornado which struck the community with savage force on Sunday afternoon.  The tornado cut a path of destruction in a northeasterly direction from Monroe up through Jefferson.  It passed through Evansville at about three o’clock in the afternoon.  The tornado passed along the south side of Evansville and then curved around the eastern part heading northeast from here.  The destructive winds seemed to come up Old Highway 92 toward Evansville from the southwest.  As it neared the city, it started to bounce back and forth across the road.  [Properties damaged by the storm included the Glen Neuenschwander farm, Perry Gransee house, trailer of Stu Day, Kleinsmith popcorn stand (trailer), Alvin Walmer house, J. B. Larson’s Restaurant, J. R. May farm, George Schrader barn, Melvin Shotliff farm, and Lyle Viney farms in Porter township.]

30 Years Ago (1975):  Mrs. A. J. Scoville was given a surprise birthday party in her home here last Sunday by members of her family.  Those present were Mr. and Mrs. Wilbert Murphy and Mr. and Mrs. Donald Murphy, Beloit; and Mrs. Lyle Graham, Mrs. Arthur Huseth, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Graham and Mr. and Mrs. Philip Kress and Libby Jo, Evansville, Mrs. Scoville’s cousins, Mr. and Mrs. Duane Shilling, Orfordville, called on her Sunday afternoon.

20 Years Ago (1985):  Dr. Gene Prudhon, Optometrist, who recently moved to Evansville, purchased the Juvenile Shop from Robert Helgesen.  He will continue his practice in Brodhead and plans to open an office in Evansville as soon as he finds an associate to staff both offices full time.  Dr. Prudhon is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Clark Prudhon and is a graduate of the Evansville High School.

10 years ago (1995):  In the election on Tuesday of last week, the Town of Union incumbents were victorious.  Voting results were:  incumbent Wayne Disch, 285 and Paul Maki 135 votes.  Incumbent Norman Hatlen garnered 287 votes and Elmer Tucker got 136 votes.  The other unopposed candidates tallied:  Dean George, 363 votes; Karen George, 376 votes; Sharon Franklin 386 votes; and George Franklin 369 votes.  “It was a very good turnout, almost a record,” declared Clerk Karen George.
 

In Review 4th Week of April 1875-1995
 

130 Years Ago (1875):   A Word to Our Business Men.  Every citizen of our beautiful town must be gratified at the steady growth and increasing prosperity of our business interests.  Many things have conduced to this end, the principal one of which is the skill, push, and integrity of our business men.  Our growth is perhaps a trifle conservative, and all the better for that, for it is indicative of permanence.  No radical changes, no sudden and novel innovations, but changes and improvements begotten of real demand and brought forth in wisdom.  The bane of the West in its material interests has been ill-advised business schemes.  Evansville, during its entire history, has partaken to a considerable extend of Eastern conservatism, and consequently has avoided many of the disasters in business common to most Western towns.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Lots on Park Street seem to be in demand this spring and several new houses will be put up there during the season.  [note:  Park Street is now North Second Street.]  A new street is about to be opened up running east and west south of H. Hamilton’s new house near the park.  [note:  This is a portion of Garfield Street intersecting with North Second Street.]

110 Years Ago (1895):  Col. George Hall Has Some Boa Constrictors Somewhere in Chicago.   Saturday night while the cars of Col. George W. Hall were being transferred from the Indiana Belt line to the Chicago and Northwestern tracks, when at West Chicago Avenue, a switch engine backed some heavy freight cars into the circus train.  The first car to be struck was a circus property car which was completely demolished.  Next to it was the private car of the Colonel’s “The City of Tampa.”  When the shock came, it carried sufficient force to throw the occupants from their chairs and injure all more or less.  Mrs. Hall was dangerously hurt, having sustained a fracture of the hip joint.  Nearly all of the animal cars were undisturbed, but an examination disclosed to the keeper of the serpents that two of the boa-constrictors had escaped in the melee.  A search party finally found one, but the other is still taking in the city.

100 Years Ago (1905):  The Hall family have left for the east Saturday where they go to join the shows this season.  Mrs. G. W. Hall, Sr., and daughter Mabel went to Chester, Penn., Where they join the Hargraves show, and Mrs. Jessie McCart went to Columbus, Ohio, where she joins the Forepaugh-Sells show.

90 Years Ago (1915):  Mr. John S. Baker, who is making a trip through the west and northwest in the interest of the Baker Mfg. Co., has written from Tijuana, Mex.  Judging from the post-card received, he was looking for a Mexican bull fight.

80 Years Ago (1925): Funeral services for Mrs. M. R. Case, 85, former Evansville resident who died Thursday at her home in Belmont, Ia., were held here Saturday. She is survived by her son, one sister, Mrs. Clint Scofield of this city.  When in Evansville, Mr. and Mrs. Case were proprietors of the Central House.  [Note this hotel was located on the present site of the Bank of Evansville.]

70 Years Ago (1935):   With the purchase of the bulk plant of the Wisconsin Petroleum Company on Union Street and the election officers, the organization of the farmers’ Cooperative Oil Association has been completed here and is now in full operation.  Joe Porter has been elected president of the association; William Butts, secretary and treasurer; and Kenneth Smith, Harry L. Hook, Marvin Patterson, and Gilbert Amidon, members of the executive committee.  F. F. Rondeau, Hayward, has been engaged as permanent manager of the entire association and contemplates on making his residence in Evansville.  Carl Spersrud, Evansville, and Ben Rasmussen, Brooklyn, have been engaged as truck drivers and are now prepared to take care of all rural deliveries.  The association is composed of more than 200 members all of whom are stock subscribers.  Although composed primarily of Evansville and Brooklyn farmers, anyone interested is invited to join the organization.

60 Years Ago (1945):   Henry Hatlen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Hatlen, this city, who is serving in the Philippines, tells of the happiness of the Philippine people in their liberation by American forces.  “They call us their father,” he says, “and their liberators, and address us as Sir.”  Pfc. Hatlen has a brother, Helmar, with the army on the western front and another brother, Edwin, seaman 1/c., who joined the Navy before the United States’ entrance into the war and who has been a prisoner of the Japanese for more than a year.

50 Years Ago (1955): City Council went right to work after the reorganization of its committees Tuesday night by voting five to one to direct Paul DeLeon and Associates, Grand Rapids, Mich., to conduct a cost analysis of the operation of the city’s utilities.   The dissenting vote was cast by L. Prentice Eager, Jr.  The firm guaranteed the city a saving of $10,000 a year in the operation of its utilities as a result of the survey and very possibly more than $20,000.  Fee for the survey will be $1,000.

40 Years Ago (1965):  The 1965 Evansville High School students selected to reign as King and Queen and their court for the forthcoming Prom are King Hans Schneeberger; Queen Sue Helgesen; Court:  Brian Golz, Lowell Hansen, Don Nelson, Eric Thompson, Sharon Schaller, Pat Erstad, Ginny Ellis, Kathy Vandervort.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Mrs. Charles L. Conroy, 75, Mayor of Evansville and civic leader for many years, died Monday evening, April 14, in her home of an apparent heart attack.  Mrs. Conroy was born Feb. 21, 1900 in rural Evansville, the daughter of the late Walter and Estelle Ingraham Tomlin.  Mrs. Conroy was midway through her fourth mayoral term, last elected to that position in 1974.  She was a graduate of Evansville High School and Whitewater State Teacher’s College, and was married to the late Mr. Conroy in August 1924.  She was president of the Continental Manor and instrumental in obtaining the nursing home for the City of Evansville.  She served on the Evansville School Board 10 years.  She also served 10 years as second ward alderman.  Her survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Melvin Allen and Mrs. Gordon Tallman, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

20 Years Ago (1985):  One of the area’s elder voices on the auction block was stilled Sunday with the death of Dean K. George, Sr., 74.  Not only was George an outstanding auctioneer but also a prominent businessman, civic worker and agricultural leader.  He served on the board of directors of Footville State Bank and Union Mutual Fire Insurance Co. and worked actively with the Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association and Wisconsin Duroc Association.  He served on the Union Town board for 33 years.  He was one of the organizers of the Rock County 4-H Fair meat animal sale.  He started in the auction business in 1930 and made it one of the largest and most prominent in southern Wisconsin.

10 years ago (1995):  Coach Ron Grovesteen and players, Ty Grovesteen and Joe Benson, graduating seniors, have been named to this year’s Wisconsin Shrine Bowl prep football all-star game.  Coach Grovesteen will coach the South Squad all-star team with his longtime assistant Duane Updike, serving on the coaching staff.

IN REVIEW First Week of May 1875-1995
 

130 Years Ago (1875):  Mrs. Hamilton Gillet died Wednesday morning last from disease consequent upon child birth.  Funeral took place from the Congregational Church, Thursday afternoon. Sermon by Rev. Mr. Harris.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Prof. J. E. Coleman is having a new residence erected upon his lot west of the Seminary.  Mr. Albert Snashall, we believe, has charge of the mechanical part.  [Note:  the current address for this house is 109 South Fourth Street.]

110 Years Ago (1895):  Thomas E. Croak, aged 46, died of consumption, Tuesday, April 30, 1895.  Mr. Croak although not a resident of this township, was always identified with this community.  He died after a lingering illness and was buried Thursday from the Catholic Church at Albany.  He leaves a wife and five children.

100 Years Ago (1905):  The Woman’s Literary Club and their friends to the number of one hundred sat down to a banquet last Tuesday evening in the Baptist parlors.  The ladies of that society served an excellent menu and at the close of the dinner a pleasant hour was spent in speech making.  Mr. Charles N. Brown of Madison was the speaker for the evening and gave a concise account of what had been accomplished in that city by their City Improvement Society.  Mrs. Vie H. Campbell was toastmistress; and Mesdames R. M. Richmond and O. C. Colony, members of the club, responded to toasts as did also the Rev. Mr. Harlan.  This function closes another successful club year and is regarded as one of the most enjoyable gatherings in the history of the organization.

90 Years Ago (1915):  Earl, the sixteen months old baby of Mr. and Mrs. John Montgomery died of convulsions Saturday noon May 1.  The baby was one of six children, five of whom survive, two girls, Mary and Myrtle, and three boys, Deane, Melvin and Theron.  The funeral was held Monday morning from St. Paul’s church.  The burial was in Maple Hill cemetery.

80 Years Ago (1925):  Why not have an amateur baseball league in Evansville this summer?  There are already three teams being organized here and there is plenty of material for a fourth one.  The Antes Press, Baker’s Shop and the Creamery have teams, and a fourth outfit could be picked up from the barbers and businessmen of this city.  Think of the fun the “Greasers”, the barbers, and the printers had playing each other last year!  Why not continue the good work this year?  Each team could play once a week, the games to be twilight contests starting about 5 o’clock.  The printers are ready to help organize a 4-team league.  Let’s hear from these three other teams.

70 Years Ago (1935):  After several weeks of secrecy, Prom King Robert Erstad has divulged the information that he has chosen Miss Marion Noyes, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Noyes, 403 West Main Street, to be queen of the 1935 junior promenade to be held here Friday evening, May 17 in the high school gym.  Prominent in school activities, Miss Noyes, a freshman, is a member of the Girls’ Athletic association, the Girl Reserves, the High School orchestra and played an important role in the Lions Club play staged here two months ago.  Mr. Erstad, president of the Junior class, has been prominent in high school boxing, dramatic activities and is a member of the Congregational choir.  He is the son of Mrs. Mayme Erstad, proprietor of the Evansville Beauty Shop.  Committee members for the prom are James Lovejoy, Dorothy Hyne, Betty Douglas, Rolland Lewis, Phoebe Covey, Beth Brigham and Miss Irene Schultz, junior class advisor.

60 Years Ago (1945):   Three local youths narrowly escaped serious injury late Sunday afternoon when the car in which they were riding left the road and traveled 177 feet down a nearby embankment.  The accident occurred on Union Street about one-quarter of a mile north of its intersection with East Main Street, at 4:25 p.m., when a car driven by Carl Popanz, 17, youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Orville Popanz, route 3, in attempting to pass another car near a curve went onto the shoulder and could not be brought back to the road.  The car, with young Popanz and his two passengers, Rolland Gundlach, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Gundlach, and Albert Fuchs, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Fuchs, Magnolia, who makes his home with his sister, Mrs. Leland Merrill, Evansville, snapped a high-line pole in two and then plunged down an embankment, turning end-over-end, finally landing facing north and wrong side up.  Carl Popanz was thrown through the windshield and the others shaken up.  They were taken to the Stoughton Community hospital for treatment but were released during the evening when it was found that they were suffering only minor cuts and bruises.  Damage to the car, a 1937 Ford coupe, was extensive.

50 Years Ago (1955): Honor pupils in the Evansville high school graduating class of 1955 were announced Wednesday by Supt. of  Schools J. C. McKenna.  Of the total graduating class of 57 students, six were awarded first honors and nine were awarded second honors.  First honor pupils were Merle Halbman, Kathryn Roberts, Alice Romstad, Darlene Nelson, Shirley Franklin, and Carmen Brunsell.  Second honors went to Ardis Templeton, Lu Ellen Jones, Doris Larsen, Janice Abey, Nancy Patterson, Darla Albright, Kenneth Viken, Janet Austria and Diane Suckow.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Eight children suffered minor bruises at 7:20 a.m. today when brakes on a school bus failed and it went into a ditch at Country Trunk A and old Highway 92 about five miles southwest of Evansville.  Treated by a local doctor were Susan Ricky, Debbie and Cheryl Miller; Rhoda and Ronald Frankhauser, Mary Zweifel and Steve O’Brien.  Mrs. Roger Neild, driver of the bus had just started picking up children bound for Evansville schools when the accident occurred.  She was not hurt.

30 Years Ago (1975):  The National Honor Society held an initiation ceremony on Wednesday April 23 at the high school library. Those initiated were:  Pam Scidmore, Kay Kersten, Mary Manthey, Cathy Holz, Beverly Lawrenz, Sue Corn, Peter Hall, Tom Collins, Lori Elmer, Ken Hall, Tim Flesch, Dave Goodspeed and Arthur Pratt.

20 Years Ago (1985):  A re-organized City Council began serving Evansville as of Tuesday night last week.  Harlan Miller, Ken Elmer, Ron Pierce, Christopher Eager, Kenneth Kuelz and Woodrow Wickersham are the Aldermen.  Kuelz was re-elected president of the Council.  Mayor John Jones, Jr. and City Attorney, Robert Sundby were also present.

10 years ago (1995):  The 1995 Prom Court for the Evansville High School was announced.  Nick Beggs (king), Anika Selvaag (queen), Jeremy Crull, Sarah Cook, Eric Fenrick, Jessie Shotliff, Deja Johnson, Katie Maloney, Ryan Lindemann, Kristi Schoenbeck, Mike Wickersham, Shane Buttchen, Marie Amato, Chad Wallisch, Jim Reilly, Melinda Krueger, Ethan Allen and Jenelle Zingg.

Second Week of May 1875-1995
 

130 Years Ago (1875):  Library Meeting.  The friends of a Public Library are requested to meet at the Town Hall in Evansville on Thursday evening at 7:30 to consider such measures as may be necessary for the permanent organization of an Association.  L. T. Pullen, D. Johnson, I. A. Hoxie.

120 Years Ago (1885): The new City Meat Market comes out with one of the finest wagons for the business we ever saw.  It bears the proprietor’s name, W. W. Hopkins on each side.  The wagon was built by J. W. Morgan and is constructed especially for the business.

110 Years Ago (1895):  The new 3 mile railroad bridge on the Evansville branch of the NorthWestern road, is beginning to show slight signs of weakening, and the railroad officials are investigating the matter.  The bridge has been showing signs of sagging, it being built on 45 foot pillars, around which the earth has been gradually filled in from time to time.  Bridge Foreman Anderson and a crew of bridge builders have been repairing the structure during the week, and in the meantime all trains run no faster than 15 miles an hour, until the repairs are finished. [Note:  The bridge is on the Janesville-Evansville cut-off.]

100 Years Ago (1905):  Mrs. John Weaver died last Friday evening at her residence on West Main Street at the ripe age of 81 years, 7 months and 25 days.  Her maiden name was Sophia Buttz, she was born Sept. 10, 1823 near Saylorsburg, Monroe Co., Pennsylvania, the seventh child of a family of ten children, all of whom except a sister are deceased.  In early womanhood she was converted and united with the Presbyterian church of which she remained a member until her death.  On Dec. 24, 1846 at Hamilton Penn. she was married to Mr. John Weaver.  Four children were born to this union, Amos, Jonathan, Henry, and Mrs. Elnora Weaver Patterson.  Three of these survive her mother, the youngest son died at the early age of five years.  The family moved to Wisconsin May 28, 1850, and have since made their home in this community.  Mrs. Weaver has been a great sufferer since last September when her infirmity became agonizing.  She was a most patient sufferer and a firm believer in Her Heavenly Father; many times when her suffering was most intense she asked for mercy and blessing on those who willingly cared for her, she had great respect for the family bond and always kept her home with a cheerful disposition.  She leaves a bereaved husband, two sons, a daughter, one sister in Pennsylvania and nine grandchildren besides a large number of nieces and nephews to mourn her loss.  Funeral services were held from the residence on Monday morning.  Rev. James Churm officiating.  Interment took place at Maple Hill cemetery.  “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.”

90 Years Ago (1915):  The following is a list of teachers engaged for next year:  J. F. Waddell, Superintendent; Ethel Hoag, Latin and German; Chas. Long, Science; Floyd Neff, Mathematics; Ethel Frost, History; Ruth Wilson, English; Annette Maxwell, Domestic Science; Vera Thompson, Music; Lillian Mueller, Special Grade; Alice Copeland, Eighth Grade; Jessie Kelley, Seventh Grade; Anna Taft, Sixth Grade; Ida Calvert, Fifth Grade; Blanche Rice, Fourth Grade; Beth Ingalls, Third Grade; Myrtle Green, Second Grade; Mae Simmons, First Grade; Vie Rowley, Kindergarten; May Phillips, Assistant.  Evansville is very fortunate in holding over so many teachers.  There are only two changes this year due to the resignations of Miss Luddington and Miss McLay.

80 Years Ago (1925):  One of the best and most appreciated musical recitals was given at the Congregational church last Tuesday evening, by the advanced pupils of Miss Lou Howland.  The pianists were First piano, Evelyn Griffith, Helen Bly and Grace Miller; Second piano, Marjorie Glasser, Miss Howland, and Clara Bewick.  The following pupils also took part in the recital:  Bertha Odegard, Wilma Sprague, Laona Kleinsmith, Frank Wood, Eula Dreher, Alvena Smith, Doris Weaver, Nathan Brooks, Mildred Litch, Beauford Nance, Elna Karmgard, Idelle Boyce, Beth Noyes, Walter Gollmar, Helen Fincher, and Louise Sweeney.

70 Years Ago (1935):  Announcement has been made here this week of the marriage of Miss Evelyn Olson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Olson, Brooklyn, to Walter Templeton, son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Templeton, route 1, this city, which ceremony was performed in Rockford, Ill., Wednesday, May 1, by the Rev. L. R. Lund.  The bridal couple was attended by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Templeton, brother and sister-in-law of the groom.  Mr. Templeton, who has been an active member of the Evansville 4-H club, was graduated from the Evansville high school in 1932.  The newly weds are making their home in Evansville.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Sgt. George McCarthy, who recently returned home from the Philippine Islands, will be the guest speaker at the regular meeting of the local American Legion to be held Friday evening, May 11.  The session will be preceded by a 6:30 buffet supper served in the Legion rooms by Ray Rosen.  Sgt. McCarthy was a member of the 192nd Tank Battalion of Janesville and went to the Philippine Islands with the group in the fall of 1941.  Prior to the fall of Bataan, he became a member of a volunteer guerilla group to fight the Japanese and therefore was not taken prisoner when Bataan fell.  He fled to the hills with the natives and lived with them until early this year when MacArthur’s men landed on the Islands and took them over.  Guests at the legion meeting here will include the parents and sweethearts of local men who served on Bataan and Corregidor.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Private funeral services were held Saturday in the Allen Funeral home for Warren Reese, 66, who died suddenly Wednesday.  The Rev. John Walker officiated.  Mr. Reese was a member of the Evansville Board of Review.  Surviving are his wife; one daughter, Mrs. John Thurman, Evansville; three sons, Melvin, Evansville; Harry, Stoughton; Burton of Rockdale; and a brother, Arthur, of Janesville.  Burial was in Maple Hill cemetery.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Gov. Warren P. Knowles and Clark Prudhon, President of the Prudent Products Co., in Evansville are pictured observing the scale model of Wisconsin World’s Fair Pavilion which is on display in the Capitol building.  “It is appropriate that this model of the Rotunda of the Wisconsin Pavilion at the New York World’s Fair should be shown here in the State’s Capitol Building,” Knowles explains.  This exhibit and publicity about it in Wisconsin and in many parts of the country should help stimulate greater attendance at the Wisconsin Pavilion, Knowles points out.  “On behalf of the government and people of Wisconsin, I wish to thank you, Mr. Prudhon for your company’s contribution of the Rotunda, and for your personal initiative and leadership role in getting the Wisconsin Pavilion built last year,” Knowles says, and then urges everyone planning to see the World’s Fair to visit the Wisconsin Pavilion and see the State’s very fine exhibits displayed there.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Members of the Public Works committee met Monday night and discussed many city problems.  They plan to bring a motion before the next council meeting on Tuesday, May 13, to have the architect draw up specifications for all exterior work to be done on the city hall for a 3-year program to put the building in shape.  It was agreed that people indicated they did not wish to build a new city hall from the recent referendum.  The situation with the city sidewalks was discussed and with only a small amount of money for repairs, no recommendations will be made to the council at the next meeting.

20 Years Ago (1985):  J. Peter Shaw, Evansville High School Guidance Director is pleased to announce that the Evansville EMS squad is offering a scholarship of $250 to a member of the Evansville High School graduating class of 1985.  Applicants must plan to enroll in a one year or longer program in a health care related field.  Selection will be made by the Evansville EMS Scholarship committee.

10 years ago (1995):  Saturday morning May 13 at 10 a.m. Evansville’s varsity baseball team will play Clinton in a doubleheader.  Preceding the game there will be a ceremony officially naming the field “Stan Sperry Field.”  The family of Stan Sperry will be present for the dedication.  Stan graduated from Evansville High School in 1934.  After being so successful in high school, he decided to pursue a career in baseball.

Third Week of May 1875-1995

130 Years Ago (1875):  Widow Cook’s horses got scared, by thunder, during the shower Thursday, broke from their hitching and dashed down Madison street at a lively speed, until near Mr. Millspaugh’s stable, when one of them falling changed their course and rushed into his tobacco lot, breaking the fence and piling things up generally.  One man in trying to stop them rushed on all fours quite to the amusement of the spectators.

120 Years Ago (1885): Mr. John J. Slightam, of Lodi, has closed his purchase of the mill property in this place at $8,000.  Mr. Slightam, the purchaser, is not a practical miller himself, but has a son who comes with him recommended as first-class in this respect.  Mr. Narracong, the retiring miller, recommends Mr. Slightam very highly to us after an acquaintance with him of several years.  Mr. Narracong thinks he will remain a citizen of this place if he can engage in some remunerative business.

110 Years Ago (1895):  Grace Hall, daughter of Geo. Hall, Jr. was bitten by one of the large snakes which she handles, Saturday afternoon, but not sufficiently severe so but what she handled the same one at the evening’s entertainment.

100 Years Ago (1905):  The Northwestern road is now having a construction train working on the line between this place and Janesville for the purpose of laying a double track line.  The double track is now extended from Chicago to Harvard, and it is proposed to close the gap between that point and Evansville before the season closes.

90 Years Ago (1915):  On Saturday afternoon Gollmar’s circus gave its opening performance in Baraboo.  The circus from all reports is more than living up to its enviable reputation of former years.  There are over 400 people in the circus retinue.  The route this year will be through Iowa, northern Nebraska and southern South Dakota; the first jump will be to Cresco, Iowa, a distance of 198 miles.  Mr. W. S. Gollmar, one of the owners of the circus, is an Evansville resident.

80 Years Ago (1925):  There will be a meeting at the Review office, Friday night at 8 o’clock of all those interested in the formation of a twilight baseball league in Evansville.  Each of the four teams representing the Baker Shop, Creamery, Businessmen, and the Antes Press, are asked to send two representatives to this meeting.  It is hoped that regular schedule of games can be made out so that play will start soon.  It is proposed to have each team play one 7-inning game a week starting at 5:30 p.m.

70 Years Ago (1935):  Stan Sperry, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Sperry and former prominent high school athlete here who recently joined the ranks of the Philadelphia Phillies, of the National league and who has been training at Winter Haven, Fla., and Hazelton, Pa., during the past two months, returned home Saturday for a rest and a tonsil operation.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Commencement week will open here Sunday evening with the baccalaureate sermon in the school auditorium and will continue through Thursday night when 29 girls and 21 boys will receive their diplomas from the local high school. Six seniors are receiving high honors this year with two and one-half to three point average.  They are Betty Brown, Reuben LaVerne Golz, Alma Clewis, Sigrid Bakke, Mary Knappenberger, and Nelladell Weaver.  Those receiving second honors with a two to two and one-half point average are Beverly Allen, George Leslie Dreher, Alyce I. Erickson, Mary Ellen Fellows and Shirley M. Luchsinger.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Evansville Lions club, meeting Monday night, elected the following officers for the coming year:  Robert Turner, president; Bernard Hull, first vice president; C. Ira Larsen, second vice president; Clark Prudhon, third vice president; Paul P. Pullen, secretary; Alan Eager, treasurer; Harold Robinson and Al Ward, directors; Dr. K. R. Schoenenberger, lion tamer.  Leonard P. Eager, retiring president, automatically succeeds to the office of tail twister.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Final approval for four new subdivisions, including the Robert Kelley property, was given by the City Council in its meeting Tuesday, May 11.  Kelley plans to build an eight-family apartment on his Fourth St. property, near the new high school.  He hopes to put up two more apartments in the future.  Other subdivisions approved were those of Donald May, Darwin Crull and Don Every.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Matthew Richard Hamacher, son of Mr. and Mrs. Aylward Hamacher was baptized Sunday in St. Williams Catholic Church in Janesville.  The sponsors were Richard Hamacher and Mrs. Richard Meyers.  The Rev. Strange was the officiating priest.  Others from Evansville who attended the ceremony were Mrs. Peter Hamacher and Mrs. Hazel Helgesen.

20 Years Ago (1985):  The Wind Prairie windmill is nearly ready to be erected on the site.  The fan section has arrived from Hutchinson, Kansas.  The gear box and rod have been cleaned and primed in the original bright red by Baker Mfg. Co.  Varco-Pruden has supplied new, heavier angle iron to reinforce the base structure.  Artists Caryl Yasco and Tom Arie-Donch have designed four triangular panels about 8 feet tall to encase the bottom section of the windmill.  Each panel depicts a prairie plant or flower in a seasonal progression around the structure.  The spring side shows prairie smoke.  Summer is represented by a lily, fall by goldenrod, and winter by prairie grasses waving in the wind and snow.  Faralloy company of Chicago has donated the steel plates from which the flower and grass silhouettes will be cut.  Red Arrow Company of Madison has loaned Varco-Pruden a plasma arc to do the cutting.

10 years ago (1995):  Captain Martin D. Kerkenbush assumed command of the Headquarters Co., 115th Field Hospital, Ft. Polk, Louisiana on April 18th.  This Deployable Medical Systems 504 bed hospital has the mission to occupy assigned areas and organize for the hospitalization of patients returning to duty.  It is staffed with 104 officers, 2 warrant officers, and 441 enlisted soldiers.  Captain Kerkenbush is the son of Tom and Ann Kerkenbush of Evansville.
 

Fourth Week of May 1875-1995
 

130 Years Ago (1875):  DECORATION DAY.  An order has been issued from the headquarters of the Grand Army of the Republic, making Saturday, May 29, “Decoration Day” throughout the United States.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Mr. Wilder says he is going to have the largest and best lumber house on the line of the road.  It will be 56 x 130 feet, and the loft will hold 1,700 tobacco cases.  It will be finished with ship-lap siding, shingled and painted.  The front end will be finished up for an office.  [C. H. Wilder owned the lumber yard on East Main Street near the railroad tracks that is now part of the Nelson-Young Lumber.]

110 Years Ago (1895):  The brick residence recently sold to Wm. Stevens, is being torn down and the brick will go into the partition walls of the large cellar now being built for his extensive residence.  The brick house was an old land mark.  It was built nearly 50 years ago.

100 Years Ago (1905):  Next Tuesday afternoon, the usual line of march will be formed on the Central House corner, and proceed to the cemetery, where the decorating of the graves will take place.  Upon returning from the cemetery, a good program will be rendered at the Opera House, school children and others taking part.  Hon. Duncan McGregor of Platteville will give the address.

90 Years Ago (1915):  The fire alarm sounded Thursday night about 9:30, the first time for many months.  The alarm was turned in from the Edgar Smith house on South First Street, occupied by the Dutton family and by Mrs. Chattertown and her mother, Mrs. Greenman.  Some time before the house caught on fire one or two neighbors passing saw a little blaze in the rear of the house and paid no attention to it as they supposed it was only some rubbish being burned.  The occupants of the house had all retired and knew nothing of the blaze until warned by neighbors.  Fortunately the fire department lost no time in arriving at the scene and quickly had the fire under control. A large crowd gathered immediately after the alarm sounded, as the report was spread that the school building was burning.  Mr. Smith was in the city Tuesday investigating the amount of the loss and found it to be about $300.  The damage was nearly all confined to the rear part of the house.

80 Years Ago (1925):  Four 4-H Boys and Girls Clubs have been organized in Rock county during the past month, Saturday afternoon 50 boys and girls from the townships of Porter, Magnolia, and Union met at the Evansville High School and completed the organizing of the Evansville 4-H Club.  Ruth Campbell was elected president; Lorraine Porter, vice president; and Marie Hatlin, secretary treasurer.  The program committee is headed by Lloyd Hubbard, Jr.  The next meeting is to be held at the Lloyd Hubbard farm, June 27th, at 2 p.m.  There will be monthly meetings throughout the summer.  Mr. Lloyd Porter is advisor for the club.

70 Years Ago (1935):  The Pleasant Prairie School closes this Friday with a picnic.  Ruth Maas who is teacher will return in the fall.  The Magnolia school closed Friday.  Fifty-three enjoyed a picnic dinner, followed by a program, after which there were foot races and ball games.  Mrs. Anderson will return to teach another year.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Pfc. George Kelly, who has been in the armed forces since November, 1942 and has never been home since entering the service, is arriving here this week.  He spent the entire time since going into the army in the Pacific war theatre and saw considerable action.  He saw his daughter, Kay, for the first time upon his arrival in Evansville.  Kay will be two years old in August.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Members of Evansville Community Theater and the cast of “Bell, Book and Candle” will go to Madison Saturday to attend the show “Wisconsin Stage—1955” which will be presented in the Union Theater.  The “showcase” program displaying some of the outstanding work of nine Wisconsin community theaters marks the 10th anniversary of the Wisconsin Idea Theater.  Evansville Community Theater will offer a scene from its latest production with Janet Parr, Jack Miller, Ruth Scott, Dave Losey and Al Seim repeating their original roles.  John Kennedy directs.

40 Years Ago (1965):  The following music students from the Evansville High School won scholarships to the music clinics:  Jackie Johnson, Lucy Rowald, Marilyn Rowald, Ann Rasmussen, Sandy Page, Hans Schneeberger, John Stone, Sally Jo May, Kathy Bradley and Ann Zweifel.  Diana Walsh, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Walsh received the John Philip Sousa award.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Last week the new City Council met in its entirety for its first business session of the new term.  With the untimely death of Mayor Ida Conroy, Robert Olsen, a second ward alderman, was named mayor to fill out the balance of Mrs. Conroy’s term and John Willoughby was appointed to the second ward aldermanic post vacated by Olsen.  John Jones, 2nd Ward; Bill Leopold, 1st ward; Roger Berg, 3rd ward; Richard Krake, 1st Ward and Larry Dobbs 3rd Ward are also on the City Council.

20 Years Ago (1985):  There will be a memorial Day Parade, starting at Fourth and Main Streets at 10 a.m. Contingents will march to the East Side Steak House on the street and then march down East Main Street on the sidewalk to the Cemetery, where they will re-form and march into the cemetery.  The High School, Middle School and Generic Bands will march.  Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, VFW and American Legion will join the parade.  There will be a special presentation at the cemetery for POW’s and MIA’s.  Richard Craven will be the speaker.

10 years ago (1995):  The School Board of Education has chosen Joe A. Schroeder, age 29, as the assistant principal of Evansville High School.  He was selected from a list of 35 candidates for the position by a high school screening committee as one of two finalists who were presented to the board.  He is currently an English and philosophy teacher at Menasha High School.  He also serves as the vice-chairperson of the high school faculty senate, and a developer of literature course curriculum in a Fox Valley School Consortium.  The Schroeder family – Joe’s wife, Annie and their children, Jennifer, 5, and Alia 2, are planning a move from Menasha to Evansville during the summer months.

LAST WEEK OF MAY 1875-1895

130 Years Ago (1875):  Town Clerk Hoskins goes for your census this week.  He started out Tuesday June 1st.  Only the population, white and black; native and foreign; deaf and dumb etc. will be enumerated.  Ten years ago Evansville counted a population of about eight hundred.  We place it at this decade at 1,600.  It is expected that the people will aid Mr. Hoskins in the accuracy of his work.  [Note:  in the 1800s, Wisconsin did a state-wide census in years ending in 5 while the federal census was taken in years ending in 0)

120 Years Ago (1885):  Another memorial day has come and gone; another decoration of the graves of our fallen heroes, took place on Saturday last, the 30th.  Three members of the Evansville post of the Grand Army of the Republic have departed this life during the year.  Their names are comrades Ezra Mann, M. H. Fish and W. K. Wilson.  And so the little band of brethren is being gradually reduced in numbers.  It will be well for the living if they take it to heart and thereby learn wisdom.  Saturday morning the “boys in blue” marched up to the cemetery and decorated the graves of their late comrades.  Our town presented quite a lively scene, the stores and the buildings displayed numerous flags.

110 Years Ago (1895):  Died at his home in Magnolia, Sunday, May 25, 1895, Aaron Broughton, aged 63 years.  Mr. Broughton was born at Hoosick, Rennselaer Co., New York, January 18, 1822.  He came to Wisconsin in 1842 and located on the farm where he has lived for over fifty years.  In 1848 he was married to Miss Linda Flint.  Five children were born to them, two daughters and three sons.  Mrs. Broughton and the three sons survive the deceased.  The subject of this sketch was in many ways an unique character of strong personality.  He was for two years state lecturer for the Grange, and his articles upon various topics were copied in leading agricultural papers, both south and west.  He was an early promoter of the Grange movement here, and has been for years, up to the time of his death, director of the mercantile Association, and by his wise council did much to shape the policy which has built up such a prosperous business.  Although proud to call himself a farmer, he was a reading and thinking man and was always abreast of the times.  He was a successful farmer and careful businessman.  He was interested in every forward movement, social or political and always made himself felt in the community.

100 Years Ago (1905):  Mr. Benjamin E. Bly of this city and Miss Mary E. Silver of Mt. Pleasant, were married in Monticello, Tuesday evening, May 30, 1905, at 8 o’clock by Rev. A. E. Bloom.  R. E. Bartlett and wife of Albany, and John Thurman and Daisy Sherger of this city, witnessed the ceremony.  The happy couple were found at their handsomely furnished home on North Madison Street this Wednesday morning keeping house as regular and content as if they had always followed the business and they are welcomed by a host of friends who wish them the richest and best gifts to be had in this life, health, happiness and prosperity.

90 Years Ago (1915):  The Gollmar circus has been stranded at Bonesteel, S. Dak., since Tuesday, May 25, owing to several miles of railway being washed out by the heavy rains.  The last time the circus showed was in the afternoon of May 25.  In the evening, the show opened and the rain came down so heavy that the show had to take to the cars, and the circus folks have been living in the cars ever since.  The town is considerable less than Evansville in size and the problem of feeding so large a company is a difficult one, since supplies cannot be brought in.  Reports reaching here are that the men are being fed on soup and pancakes and that they are eating but twice a day.  A large number of the force are being used in the rebuilding of the railway tracks.

80 Years Ago (1925):  In the passing of Myron Kyes, of this city, last Monday morning, Evansville lost one of her early settlers, one who coming to rock County in 1854, has made this country his continuous place of residence.  Mr. Kyes was born in Lansdowe, Canada, December 19, 1846 and after setting in Rock County, was united in marriage in 1863 to Miss Diana Peebles, of Albany, Wis., she departing this life in 1920.  He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Charles Van Wart, of this city and two grand children, Earl Van Wart and Mrs. Ethel Simon, Madison.  The funeral services were held at his home on South Madison Street, Tuesday afternoon, Rev. O. W. Smith officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.

70 Years Ago (1935): The annual Union Township play day will be held at the fair grounds here next Saturday when a crowd of approximately 500 men, women, and children are expected to assemble to participate in the full day of events planned.  The day’s program, which will open at 10 a.m. will include kittenball, volleyball, horseshoe pitching, baseball, relay races, and bean bag throws.  School districts competing will be Pleasant Prairie, Butts’ Corners, Tupper, Tullar, Franklin, No. 10, Brown, Union and Holt.  Laverne Ringhand is chairman of the evening and Miss Ruth Allen, secretary and treasurer.  The games chairmen are:  William Leeder, kittenball; Horace Franklin, horseshoes; Dana Phelps, relays and jumping; Elmer Allen, volleyball; and Mrs. Carroll Bly, bean bag throws.  Lawrence Janes will be in charge of the grounds and Ed Jorgensen the stand.  The events will continue throughout the day with a picnic dinner at noon.

60 Years Ago (1945):  The following Evansville high school players were awarded letters by Athletic Director George O’Neil:  Oliver Julseth, Don Olsen, Curtis Fellows, Jerry Johnson, Phil Collins, Albert Apfel, John Hatlen, Merritt Tuttle, Gene Hartl, Carroll Hartl and Mgr. Borger Hanson.  Most of the players will continue under the Junior Legion set-up except Apfel, who was inducted into the Navy Friday.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Sixty-eight members of Evansville’s Ground Observer Corps were honored last Thursday evening at a special program in Evansville’s City Hall.  They all became eligible to wear their GOC wings, GOC in Evansville is now more than 200-strong.

40 Years Ago (1965):  The Evansville Swimming Pool will not open Saturday, June 5 as heretofore stated.  The time change was caused by a delay in the arrival of the paint for the pool and materials for other repairs.  However, it is expected that the opening date will be during the week following Sunday June 6.

30 Years Ago (1975):  In Evansville, June Dairy Month activities will get their kick-off this Thursday night June 5, at 7:45 pm, when the local 4-H club meets at the Larry Gransee farm for special doings.  The queen, for the forthcoming fair will be crowned.  On Saturday, Mayor Robert Olsen officially signed the proclamation for June dairy Month in Evansville.  Larry and DeAnn Gransee are serving as chairmen of the Dairy Month activities.

20 Years Ago (1985):  The Generic Band will be practicing Thursday.  The group will meet on June 1, at the Middle School for the Wind Prairie event.

10 years ago (1995):  Commencement for the class of 1995 will be held on Sunday, June 4, at 2 p.m. in the high school gym.  Randy Keister, Guidance Counselor at Evansville High School, proudly announces that the Co-Valedictorians for the Class of 1995 are Emily Hass and Dean Sanner.  Both students have recorded a 4.0 grade point average.  The class Salutatorian is Laurie Eaton.  She has accumulated a 3.978 grad point average.
 

FIRST WEEK OF JUNE 1875 - 1995

130 Years Ago (1875):  Mr. Theodore Robinson arrived home Tuesday morning, after almost two year’s absence in New York, attending the Art Institute.  Always glad to welcome Thed.

120 Years Ago (1885):  The fire boys met Wednesday night, Chief Powles in the chair and made choice of the following officers:  Ray Gilman, 1st assistant; Henry Fellows, 2nd assistant; Wilbur Hoxie, secretary; A. C. Gray, treasurer; Jas. Powles, steward; Recommended to the board for appointment:  Chas. Powles, engineer; Fred Gilman, fireman; Dan’l Whaley, foreman of hose; Appointed by foreman of hose: Wilbur Hoxie, 1st pipe man; Tom McGovern, 2nd pipe man.

110 Years Ago (1895):  As early as half past seven o’clock Thursday evening, Magee’s Hall was so crowded with people anxious to hear the High School graduating exercises that many were turned away, unable to even secure standing room and many gentlemen who had gained seats gallantly gave way to the ladies and left the hall.  The exercises lasted until about eleven o’clock.  The seventeen orations that were delivered were creditable to the orators and instructors.  The program passed off without a jar and although the exercises were of necessity long, the interest of the audience was unflagging.  The entire audience, crowded almost to suffocation, listened with unabated interest and none went away without expressing entire satisfaction, and with a great feeling of pride of the fair sons and daughters of Evansville who had been so well trained and educated in our High School.  Last autumn our popular jeweler, E. J. Ballard, offered as a prize a fine gold watch and chain to the member of the class who should stand highest in scholarship.  When it came to making out the final average it was found that there were two pupils that were equal, Miss Grace Colton and Miss Ina Gillies.  The members of the school board purchased another watch, and thus two won the price.

100 Years Ago (1905):  Miss Grace Nevill of Magnolia, died of diphtheria on Monday evening at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Walters.  She had been ill about three weeks.  At first the disease assumed the form of membraneous croup, then ended in that dreaded disease which poisoned her whole system and no help could be rendered to save her young life.  Everything was done that could be done but all efforts seemed fruitless, death claimed its victim.

90 Years Ago (1915):  The members of the Tourist club, to the number of seventeen, enjoyed a picnic in the library hall on Friday evening.  The original plans were to go out to Leonard Park, but the rain prevented.  But the change made the evening no less delightful for all present.  No outsiders were permitted  to see or hear, but each of the members represented a bird, whose song or warble was imitated.  Needless to say this caused considerable merriment.

80 Years Ago (1925):  Monday, just at noon, Lake Leota claimed her first victim since the new lake was put in, in the person of Warren Halverson, fifteen-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Halverson, who live three miles east of Evansville.  It seems that young Halverson, who is a freshman in the city high school, with two companions at the noon intermission took a car to the lake to have a swim during the noon hour.  Not being an expert swimmer, Halverson attempted to cross the deep water between the dam and the diving platform and whether he was taken with cramps or whether the force of an incoming wave caused by the high wind which was blowing at the time, stunned him, it not known.  Efforts were made to save him without avail and he sank in what is probably the deepest water in the lake.

70 Years Ago (1935): Miss Ruth Franklin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Franklin, route 1, and Lloyd Eldon George, son of Mr. and Mrs. Russell George, Evansville were married at a ceremony performed at 3 p.m. yesterday in the bride’s home, six miles northeast of the city, by the Rev. L. M. Kitzmiller, pastor of the local Baptist church.  The bride wore a gown of white satin with veil and train and carried a shower bouquet of white sweet peas.  Miss Helen LeFeber, bridesmaid, was attired in blue organdie with which was worn a shoulder corsage of pink sweet peas.  Miss Ruth Maas, maid of honor, wore pink organdie with a shoulder corsage of blue sweet peas.  The flower girls, both of whom wore yellow organdie and carried baskets of lilies of the valley, were Beverly Amidon and Catherine Franklin.  Attending the groom were Glenn George and Horace Franklin.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Sgt. Howard Thompson, 23, son of Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Thompson, Cainville, died of wounds received in action on Okinawa, April 27.  Mrs. Doris Thompson was officially notified Friday morning of her husband’s death.  A member of the 165th infantry regiment of the 25th division, Sgt. Thompson had served overseas for 30 months.  He was a veteran of the Gilbert Islands and Saipan campaign and after a brief stay in the New Hebrides was sent to Okinawa.  Howard Thompson entered service Nov. 11, 1942, and after stopovers at Fort Sheridan, Ill. and Camp Stoneman, Calif, was sent to Hawaii for training.  He attended the Evansville High School and as a civilian was employed at the Badger Trailer Co., here.  Besides his parents and his wife, whom he married Feb. 14, 1942, the infantryman is survived by a brother Robert, Janesville.  Sgt. Thompson’s mother is a Review correspondent and writes the Cainville Center news which appears in the paper almost every week.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Miller Hotel building, 155 E. Main St., has been sold to Fred and Martha Sperry, according to C. W. Hyne, Evansville real estate broker.  After certain basic remodeling is completed, the Sperry’s will operate the business as a restaurant, tavern, and hotel.  They anticipate completion of all remodeling some time in July.  Hyne also announced the sale of the Cavalier Motel, Highways 13-14, four miles north of Evansville, to Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Schleuter, Chicago couple, who will take over the motel June 15.

40 Years Ago (1965):  William D. Knapp was conferred the degree of Doctor of Philosophy June 4 at the University of Iowa.  At the University, Doctor Knapp continued graduate studies in Geology and specialized in Invertebrate Paleontology, the study of ancient life on Earth.  Dr. Knapp graduated from Evansville Public High School in 1955.  After a short stay with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Knapp, Evansville, Doctor Knapp will be associated with Pan American Petroleum Corporation in Denver, Colorado.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Mr. and Mrs. Art Olsen, Brooklyn, observed their 23rd wedding anniversary on Sunday.  They received congratulations in the United Methodist Church where they were wed.  The Olsen family, Dean Hermanson, Mrs. Olsen’s mother, Mrs. Lloyd Apfel, and Mrs. Olsen’s aunt, Mrs. Lindle Apfel, enjoyed dinner at Tibbies later in the day.

20 Years Ago (1985):  Mayor John Jones again brought up the matter of sending a letter to the Wisconsin Power and Light co., regarding the sale of the City owned utility.  Jones feels they should listen to the possible advantages, just to sit down and listen to them.  No action was again taken, as at a previous meeting.

10 years ago (1995):  Natalie Golz attended the graduation of her granddaughter, Amanda Waldhart, from Verona High School on May 27th.  Attending the open house on May 28 were Mr. and Mrs. Bernie Golz from Bella Vista, Arkansas and Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Luchsinger of Evansville.
 

In Review  Second Week in June 1875-1995

130 Years Ago (1875):  A party consisting of L. T. Pullen, wife and two children; D. M. Rowley, wife and daughter and a nephew from Ohio; and Mr. A. C. Gray and wife, start off next week for an all summer jaunt among the classic lakes of Neshota, Walworth Co.  They take along tents and the paraphernalia of piscatorial warfare, and a good supply of commissary stores, and will employ their time and talents as best suited to the recovery of health and spirits.  They expect to be absent until about the first of September, only returning occasionally to attend to home business.

120 Years Ago (1885):  The famous old dray horse familiarly known as “Old Ben,” for a number of years the property of P. F. Spencer, and later of Harrison Haywood, W. F. Williams, John Reilly and Tom McGovern, died on Friday of the former week, and was buried with the solemnity due the faithful of the equine race, in the beautiful horse cemetery on the north side of the mill pond; where the sighing waves and the whispering winds amid the umbrageous oaks, will sing him a lullaby.

110 Years Ago (1895):  Tuesday evening the members of the Women’s Literary Club, with their friends, met for a good time in the audience room of the City Hall.  Soon after eight, nearly one hundred people were seated around the banquet tables, which were set in the form of a hollow square.  Madam Friedland, a distinguished Russian lady, prominent in literary circles, was the guest of honor for the evening.   She gave the first toast upon “American Women, from a Russian View.”  This banquet closes the year and is the third entertainment of a social character which has been added to the sixteen regular meetings, which are purely literary.  The year book containing the program for next year is about out and the members of the club hope to do more and better work than was possible the year of its organization.

100 Years Ago (1905):  This past week has been memorable in the history of the Evansville Seminary.  From far and near have come the old teachers and students to help this historical institution celebrate its semi-centennial.  It was with unmixed pleasure that the friends of the school hear University of Wisconsin Presidents Van Hise, Hogue, Salisbury, and Prof. Chapin speak of the exceptional qualities that marked their students sent to them from Evansville Seminary.  Ten graduates were presented for graduation:  Margaret Meikle, Everett P. Combs, Maude Winn, Edith Benway, Elizabeth Emerton, Clyde R. Munns, Haven Marsh, Elmer Brown, Alfred Janney and William C. Pflaum.

90 Years Ago (1915):  The annual commencement exercises of the Evansville high school will be held in the Magee Opera House tomorrow evening, beginning promptly at 8:15.  The admission fee will be fifteen cents.  Those graduating in the German course are Gordon Dale Adams, Josephine Antes, Doris Blackmun, Calvert Cain, Frances Gabriel, Margaret Holden, Alice Holden, Marion Jones, James Knapp, Lydia Meloy, Lucile Miller, Lyell Porter, Sarah Smith and Harold Wood.  In the English course Dorothy Harte and Hiram Brooks Gabriel will graduate.  Dorothy Richmond and Grace Haylett have completed the Latin-German course.

80 Years Ago (1925):  The fund for the new ball diamond at the city park has been raised and over-subscribed, and work was started Tuesday morning.  A tractor and grader were used to skin the infield and the sod was hauled to several low spots in the outfield.  The bogs in the outfield have been cut off and used to fill in low places.  The pump which is too near the base line, will be moved out about 30 feet from the diamond.  The pump will be connected to the present well by a pipe running underground.  It is expected that the diamond will be in shape for the Printers-Business Men’s game Monday night, if the weather allows further work.

70 Years Ago (1935): Georgia Ann Miller, 5, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Miller, former Evansville residents now residing in Dane County, and granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. D. Dalton, South Madison Street and Mrs. John Miller, 516 West Main Street, was accidentally shot and killed about 9 a.m. Tuesday by a blast from a shot gun in the hands of her playmate, Robert Schneck,  9, son of Miller’s hired man.  The two children were playing in a garage on the Miller farm about six miles north of Stoughton on highway 51 when Bobby discovered a shot gun standing in a steel barrel.  He told of removing it and aimlessly pulling the trigger.  The shots struck the girl’s back and pierced her right lung.  The child was dead upon arrival of Dr. A. T. Smedal, Stoughton, who was immediately summoned.  Georgia’s mother, formerly Miss Eleanor Dalton of this city, was standing only a few feet away talking with relatives at the time of the accident.

60 Years Ago (1945):  William Hollibush, 79, a retired farmer and former employee of the Baker Manufacturing Co., died suddenly at his home at 11:30 a.m. Saturday.  Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday in the Allen Funeral Home with the Rev. Hoscar Steinke, Belleville, officiating.  Burial was in Maple Hill Cemetery.  Born Jan. 19, 1866 in Cottage Grove, Dane County, he lived much of his life near Dayton.  The Hollibush family came to Evansville in 1901 and about 29 years ago, Mr. Hollibush began his employment at the Baker Co., from where he retired a few years ago.  On Oct. 30, 1894, he married Mary E. Fletcher in Oregon.  She survived, also two daughters, Mrs. Elma Dreher, Evansville, and Mrs. Walter Becker, Indian Ford; four sons, Duane and Verlynn, Beloit, Orris, Chicago, and Alfred, recently discharged from the Army, at home; 15 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

50 Years Ago (1955):  John Frank Waddell, 127 Church St., will be one of three Whitewater State college alumni who will be recognized during the commencement exercises for outstanding contributions in their chosen fields.  Waddell, a graduate of the class of ’06 made his contribution in the field of education.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Mrs. Mary Huseth, 205 Walker Street, has observed her 35th service anniversary with the Wisconsin Telephone Company.  She is a service representative here for the firm.  Mrs. Huseth started as an operator in Evansville in 1929.  In 1949, she transferred to the Janesville area, and later that same year went to Madison, also as an operator.  In 1950 she returned here.  Ten years ago she was promoted to service assistant.  In 1960 she was named service representative in the commercial department of the firm.  Her husband, Arthur, owns and operates a dairy supply business.

30 Years Ago (1975):  The Evansville firemen were called to the Jim Ripp farm on County Trunk C to extinguish a tractor fire at 12:22 p.m. Saturday, June 14.  Sometime during the night of Sunday, June 15 there were two attempts at break-ins on East Main Street.  Both the Brunsell Co. and the Laufenberg Lumber Co. buildings showed signs of attempts to gain entrance to the offices but in neither case was entry gained.  The Evansville High School kitchen has been raided of canned foods recently.

20 Years Ago (1985):  A reception to honor Leonard P. Eager will be held at the Eager Free Public Library Saturday, June 29 at 3:30 p.m.  Mr. Eager has served on the library board for 64 years.  He was first appointed to the board in 1921 by Mayor E. H. Libby and has served continuously since that time.

10 years ago (1995):  Their gift to St. Paul Catholic Church took eight months to complete.  Almost every night of that eight months, as their young sons slept, Tim and Cathy Rooney worked on an oil painting of the Last Supper.  Late last Friday afternoon, with the three segments of the painting in place behind the altar, the couple was still working to finish.  St. Paul’s delighted priest, Father Edward Erbe praised the painting.  Bishop George Wirz called it a masterpiece.

In Review  Third Week in June 1875-1995

130 Years Ago (1875):  A. S. Baker & Company announce themselves capable and have the facilities, of doing all kinds of iron forging, from a pot bail to the crank of a saw mill.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Mr. Dempster Van Patten reports a poor season so far for the ice business, there being a very light demand.  He now has his new street sprinkler in operation and we hope to see it receive the support necessary to keep it running.

110 Years Ago (1895):  The baseball game played here today was witnessed by a large crowd.  The Janesville team came up to try and beat Evansville.  Broughton and Hayden were the battery and were helped by Messrs, Gillman, Brewer, Van Patten and Libby of Evansville and Messrs. Broughton, Luce and Broughton of Albany.  The score after an easy game stood 14 to 8 in favor of Evansville.

100 Years Ago (1905):  The improvements recently made by W. J. Clark in his store have decidedly changed the entire appearance of his salesroom.  Besides having more elaborate show windows, the store is better lighted and more in conformity to the department stores.  The grocery department has been moved from its close quarters in the rear of the store to the front and now occupies the entire west side of the new store.  It is neater, more attractive and will get more trade.  [Note:  the store was at 1 West Main on the southwest corner of the intersection of Main and Madison.]

90 Years Ago (1915):  The mayor has warned Mac Van Wormer, Geo. Roby and Geo. Bullock not to exceed the speed limit on the streets of the city.

80 Years Ago (1925):  Married at Rockford, Ill., Saturday June 13th, Keith Weaver, of Evansville, and Miss Grace Schulz.  Mr. Weaver is in the employ of John Doyle.  The bride is the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gustavie (Fred) Schulz, town of Brooklyn.  Their friends extend congratulations.  [Note:  the headline for this notice spelled the bride’s surname as Schultz.]

70 Years Ago (1935):  The Hotel Central, an historical landmark here which has faithfully served the community for nearly a century, was closed this week by its proprietors, Mr. and Mrs. George Wolfe, who have conducted the business for the past 40 years and who will sell the hotel furnishings at public auction to be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday.  The auction sale, which is expected to attract a record crowd of enthusiastic buyers and which will be conducted by Dan Finnane with Mrs. H. H. Hile serving as clerk, will complete a page of Evansville’s hostelry  history never to be forgotten especially by the old timers who well remember when the hotel was the center of social activities.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Mr. and Mrs. Otto Guse will quietly observe their silver wedding anniversary Sunday at the home here at 453 Almeron St.  Mr. and Mrs. Guse were married June 24, 1920 in the town of Porter where Mrs. Guse, formerly Miss Erna Gundlach, resided.  The couple have lived in Evansville since 1923 and Mr. Guse has been employed at the Baker Manufacturing plant during that time.  Both are members of St. John’s Lutheran church.  They have two sons, Donald and Gordon at home.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Evansville’s Home Talent baseball team’s scheduled contest with Sun Prairie here last Sunday was rained out.  No alternate date has been set for the game.  The Home Talent squad will meet Albion here this Sunday.  Probable mound starter will be Larry Amidon.  Home Talent league standings are Albion 6-0, McFarland 6-0, Deerfield 4-2, Sun Prairie 2-3, Evansville, 2-4, Pleasant Hill 1-4, Utica 1-5 and Cottage Grove 1-5.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Mr. and Mrs. Orrie Krause, Route 1, Albany, will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary with an open house at their farm home Sunday, June 20.  The former Leona Gransee and Orrie Krause were married June 22, 1940, in the bride’s home, Route 1, Brooklyn.  They have five children:  Sharon, Dale, Ronnie, Randy and Jill.  They also have two granddaughters.  Mr. Krause is employed at Krostue Implement in Albany.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Krause are members of the Peace Evangelical U. B. Church, Route 1, Brooklyn

30 Years Ago (1975):  The Adams Roofing Co. of Janesville paid $165,000 last Thursday for the 4.1 acres of land, the buildings of the Farmers Grain Exchange in Evansville and much of the grain handling equipment.  The amount was more than twice that of the appraised value of the buildings.  Sale of other property boosted the sale to close to $200,000.  Farm Loan Service administered the auction, handled by Paul George of Evansville.  The probable re-opening of the grain storage facility was well received information for local area farmers.  A group of Evansville farmers were active in the bidding of the building and did a lot of conferring amongst themselves before giving up the bidding when it reached the $165,000 mark.  Several Evansville farmers, who were left short when the Exchange went bankrupt, were concerned to get the facility into operation again.  There is a need in this area for the grain storage facility.

20 Years Ago (1985):  Evelyn Crocker and Wayne Nelson were recently presented with Golden Sheaf Certificates and 50 year pins by Hans Schneeberger, Master of the Waucoma Grange.  Evelyn is presently Secretary of the Grange and has also served as Lecturer.  Wayne was also recognized for being a very supportive member.

10 years ago (1995):  Milwaukee School of Engineering honored Richard Schwartz of Evansville High School with the MSOE’s Teaching Excellence Award at the University’s spring commencement ceremony.  This award is given to high school and middle school teachers in recognition of their contributions to the future education and career goals of their students.  They are nominated by members of the current MSOE graduating class.  Schwartz teaches architecture and drafting courses at Evansville High School and was nominated by Gregory Bakkum, who said Schwartz was a very influential person.  “With Schwartz as my teacher I was able to get a feel for what was involved in architecture and I began to realize my interest in it as a career.  He was the one person who was able to persuade me to make the most of myself.  He was, and still is, always there to give advice on what’s going on in my life,” Bakkum wrote.  Bakkum graduated from MSOE with high honors and a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering.

In Review  Fourth Week in June 1875-1995

130 Years Ago (1875):  We intended to note the "raising" at Mr. Jed Hubbards' last week, but so good a thing will keep a couple of weeks.  It was a barn, 51 x 40 and 24 ft. posted.  A good solid affair you see, and requiring lots of muscle to "raise."  The muscle was there in form of some fifty or more stalwart men who came to lift and eat.  Tuesday, the
22nd  was the day of raising and a fine day too.  The work was a success from beginning to end.  One favorable feature, there were plenty of "heavy weights" to hold the "feet" of the posts, when such men as Frank Gibbs and Uncle Jed himself set down on any thing.  The supper was planned and engineered by "Mother Hubbard" who also executed no
small part of the cooking of it, 2 bushels biscuits, 40 pies, 10 large loaves cake, 80 small cakes, 1/2 bushel cookies and ginger cakes, coffee and tea by the pail full, and such quantities of "trimmings" as would help it all down easy.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Jerome Bemis is having lumber for his new residence drawn by team from Janesville, where it is shipped to him by a relative who runs a saw mill in the northern part of the state.

110 Years Ago (1895):  A ride to Footville and vicinity disclosed the following damages from Tuesday’s storm.  In Magnolia Schumacher’s grove was badly demolished, trees blown down and twisted up by the roots.  Then continuing farther, Howe’s barn was seen flattened, Frank Dan’s orchard, Footville warehouse twisted, Strang’s windmill, Frank Wells’ Tobacco shed and the creamery barn.  In east Footville Bemis’ tobacco shed and a new barn of Browne’s were destroyed.

100 Years Ago (1905):  W. H. H. Johnson, W. W. Gillies, Dr. C. M. Smith, Jr., of this city, Ira Jones for the town of Union and Chet Miller for the town of Porter, members of the county board of supervisors, attended the June meeting of that body in Janesville, Wednesday.

90 Years Ago (1915):  Miss Nina Munger is working in the local telephone exchange during the vacation season.

80 Years Ago (1925):  F. B. Green has adopted for his own use on his dairy farm east of town, the New Surge Milking machine, which he claims is the latest and best in the line  of milking machines.  Mr. Green has taken the agency o this machine and it may be seen in operation at his farm east of town.

70 Years Ago (1935):  The Columbus Food corporation resumed operations at the canning factory here Saturday when a crew of some 50 employees went to work canning the early crop of peas.  The firm now maintains eleven viner stations in this vicinity located on the Roy Fellows, William Wadsworth, Gardner Babcock, Milbrandt Brothers, William Miles, Robert Bryan, Clark Osterheld, E. H. Libby and Grant Howard farms, one near the church in Center township, and another at the plant.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Having purchased the food market, successfully operated by D. F. Finnane for the past twenty years, we wish to announce to his customers that we will continue the operation of the business the same hours and in essentially the same manner, with the present personnel as near as possible.  We will assume ownership and operation of the business on Monday, July 2nd, Everill’s Food Market, Wallace and Gwendolyn Everill.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Herb Christensen, employee of the Union Cooperative Assn., returned home last week after attending a cooperative pre-management short course in Minneapolis.  Christensen was one of 19 students who completed the five-day course.  The school was operated by Midland Cooperatives, Inc., to train young employees for cooperative management.

40 Years Ago (1965):  The following letter has been received by Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Crull of Evansville.  I am very pleased to inform you that your son, PFC Ralph E. Crull, was chosen as the outstanding soldier at the McNair Compound Guard Mount on April 15, 1965 and again on June 3, 1965.  As the Deputy Commander’s Orderly he has demonstrated an outstanding awareness of duty in the best tradition of the United States Army.  Men such as your son provide inspiration to other members of their units and stimulate the spirit de corps which is a prerequisite to the successfully accomplishment of the Brigade’s mission in Berlin.

30 Years Ago (1975):  EHS class of 1940 gathered to reminisce.  Those present were William Carey, Marjorie Hyne Durner, Ruth Covert Livingston, Theo Devine Rasmussen, Vergene Flood Hull, Bettie Millard Doering, Betty Hurd George, Rollin Golz, Helen Persons Robinson, Elizabeth Balch Cole, Wilbur Luchsinger, Betty Brunsell Graham, Margaret Meredith Kelly, Phil Roberts, Tom Kennedy, Mary Gilbertson Rupnow, Lee Larson, Ruth Morrison Gollmar, Robert Graham, Betty Milbrandt Cesar, Marie Zentner Demmer, Robert Bullard, Wallace Olsen, Spencer Porter, Robert F. Brunsell, Norbert Lynch, John Haakenson.

20 Years Ago (1985):  Again in 1985 the Arts and Crafts Committee is planning to be part of the Evansville 4th of July celebration.  Local artists will be Mark Hull, Frank Richardt and Joan Sands.

10 years ago (1995):  Queen for Evansville 4-H this year is Heather Janes.  Heather is the daughter of Karen Eveland and Rod Janes.  She is 17 years old and is going to be a senior this year.  She has been in 4-H for nine years and her main projects include dairy, swine, junior leadership and ceramics.  King for Evansville 4-H is Jim Abey.  He is the son of Harold Jr. and Pam Abey.  Jim is 18 years old and is planning to go to the short course in Madison.  He has been in 4-H for nine years.  His main projects are dairy, crops and junior leadership.

In Review  FIRST WEEK IN JULY 1875-1995

130 Years Ago (1875):  The sudden death of Mr. Washington Higday, which took place at an early hour Thursday morning, took everybody by surprise and many regarded the news as only a myth, as he was in town the previous day transacting business in his apparent good health. Mr. Higday was one of the very earliest settlers of Union, having located upon the farm he so lately occupied as early as 1840 –35 years ago.  He was an industrious, hard working farmer, apparently just beginning to enjoy life.  His premises betoken thrift, and his buildings are those of a farmer well to do in life.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Daniel Johnson is in Nebraska looking up the matter of foul play or murder, of Mr. Geo. Van Hise, about which there is a painful mystery.  Mr. Van Hise’s wife was an adopted daughter of Mr. Wm. H. H. Johnson, but he being in poor health gets his father, Daniel, to go for him.

110 Years Ago (1895):  Mr. Geo. Fellows of Porter, informs us that upon his return from the Old Settlers Picnic Tuesday evening, he saw some of the ravages of the wind, which had torn down and destroyed Charles Elzies and Wm. Conners windmills and tobacco barns and sheds belonging to Charles Pierce and Thomas Cassidy on the Janesville road, and undoubtedly much greater damage was done that was not to be seen from the road.

100 Years Ago (1905):  Born:  to Mr. and Mrs. Ed Wood, June 25, a daughter.  Born:  June 29, 1905, to Mr. and Mrs. Walter Kimball, a son.  Born:  to Mr. and Mrs. Henry Porter, Wednesday, June 28, a son.

90 Years Ago (1915):  Mrs. George Henry Howard died Thursday evening, following an illness lasting several weeks and causing much suffering.  Lillie May Worthing, was the daughter of Benjamin and Ledia Worthing and was born April 2, 1863 in the town of Center, Rock County, Wis.  She was married December 14, 1881 to George Henry Howard and has since then resided in the town of Magnolia.  Besides her husband she leaves three children, Mrs. William Dougherty and Grant Howard of Magnolia and Mrs. Warren Porter of the town of Porter, three grandchildren, her mother, Mrs. Worthing of the town of Center, one sister, Mrs. Nay Gillman of Evansville, three brothers, Harley Worthing of Overton, Neb., Charles Worthing of Los Angeles, Cal. and Ernest Worthing of Center.  She was a devoted wife and mother, loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her.  She possessed an unusually strong character.  Her life and memory will remain as an inspiration to her friends.  The funeral was held in the Adventist church in Magnolia.  The burial was in the Magnolia cemetery.

80 Years Ago (1925): Last Tuesday evening the little boy of J. S. Pullen had a miraculous escape from an automobile accident.  The high school band had been giving a concert on the corner of Main and Madison streets and were marching to the park to attend the Chautauqua and several cars were following them.  A car driven by Frank Lewis had been standing on North Madison street and had gotten as far as Cain’s grocery when from out of the crowd this little boy darted right in the path of the machine.  Luckily the car had a wide bumper in front and the child locked his arm around this and held on tight until the car was stopped, which was only a few feet.  This is not the first time that this kind of an accident has occurred and it would seem that children of this city should always look both ways before crossing a street.

70 Years Ago (1935):  Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Blunt announce the marriage of their daughter, Esther Jeanette, to Earl Waller, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Waller, both of this city.  The ceremony was performed June 8, in the Methodist Episcopal church at Woodstock, Ill., the Rev. Joseph Burrows officiating.  The couple was unattended.  After a short wedding trip to Chicago, Mr. and Mrs. Waller, returned to Evansville.  Mrs. Waller, a graduate of the high school class of 1926 is at present employed with the Wisconsin Telephone company at Fort Atkinson.  Mr. Waller graduated with the class of 1924 and is now connected with the Columbus Food Corporation.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Edgar Sperry has resigned his position as chief engineer and janitor at the Evansville city schools after serving in that capacity the past 22 years.  He will be employed at Everill’s store formerly Finnane’s Foods.  Mr. Sperry has not only done his work as janitor faithfully but has watched with interest the growth and development of the school and students.  Many of the boys and girls whose career from kindergarten through graduation was watched by Ed are now scattered over the world.  The war has taken them to foreign lands and some of them will not return.  Down through the years, Mr. Sperry, with the assistance of his helpers, has kept the buildings in A-1 shape and at all times has had the complete confidence of faculty and board members and students.  He will be missed by those groups.  Joseph Hartl has been engaged by the board of education to succeed Mr. Sperry.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Arrangements were being made Wednesday so that about 100 Evansville area youngsters can attend the Milwaukee Braves-Cincinnati game in Milwaukee Saturday.  All youngsters interested in making the trip should get in touch with recreation director Dick Antes immediately.  Both boys and girls in their early teens are eligible for the trip, which is arranged through cooperation of the Tri-County YMCA program and the Braves Knot Hole Club.  Present plans call for a trip to be made in school buses.

40 Years Ago (1965):  The new Varsity Cheerleaders for the 1965-1966 athletic season were chosen this spring.  These six girls are Sophomores: Cathy Kopp, Sue Gray, Linda Norby and Debbie Smalley; Juniors: Sue Hazlett; Seniors: Kathy Vandervort.  First alternate is Diana May and second alternate, Bonnie Bunde.

30 Years Ago (1975):  Mr. and Mrs. Ivan Krueger, Mr. and Mrs. Art Harnack and Brenda Kay, Dick Krueger and Miss Sandy Sharp returned Saturday after spending last week fishing at Marawarden Resort which is owned by former Evansville residents, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Brunsell.  The resort is located on Long Lake at Sarona, Wis.

20 Years Ago (1985):  This coming school year, there will be three AFS students in Evansville.  Phil and Nancy Kress and Libby and Andy will host Suchart Kettoprakarn-Dam, 17, of Thailand-Bangkok. Yvonne Hobro will be coming from Nurnberg, Germany to stay with Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Smelcer.  Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn Petersen will welcome Gerardo Berroa Loo, 17, of Panama.  All students will be arriving mid August and will be met in Madison.

10 years ago (1995):  Despite a downpour on July 4 in Evansville, the annual parade went on as usual with the many participants “braving the elements.”  The inclement weather may have dampened or altered some of the other planned activites in the park, but not the parade.  Some of the veterans of World War II led the parade with umbrellas still carrying on the World War II theme for the July 4 activities.

IN REVIEW JULY 12, 2005
In Review

130 Years Ago (1875):  Mr. Levi M. Shaw who has been for some months selling the Monitor Wind Mill, returned for a breathing spell Thursday morning.

120 Years Ago (1885):  The census item as published in the Gazette Tuesday, was in error.  The population of Evansville is 1,512, not 1,102 as that paper has it.  Town Clerk Ludington has given 1,066 inhabitants for the town of Union.

110 Years Ago (1895):  Married.  At Monroe, Sunday, July 7, Mr. Fred Franklin and Miss Anna Stauffacher.  Mr. Franklin is very well known in this city and is a popular young man with his business associates.  Many friends join us in wishing Mr. and Mrs. Franklin a long and happy life.  They have taken up their residence in the Baggs house on Main Street.

100 Years Ago (1905):  C. H. Spencer is now having plans drawn at the office of architect Hilton for a new residence to be built in Evansville.  The structure will be of hollow cement blocks and will cost in the neighborhood of $3,500.  Among the features of the building will be four round cement pillars.  These will be the first columns of their kind in Evansville.  [note:  this is the house at 32 West Main.  Hilton was a Janesville architect.]

90 Years Ago (1915):  Jens Norum, residing near Cooksville, was injured in a runaway the first of the week.  He was plowing corn and had left the team standing, when the neck yoke was broken in some way and the team started, running over Mr. Norum when he attempted to stop them.  He was bruised considerably.

80 Years Ago (1925):  During the storm on July 9 at three o’clock, the tower of the Baptist church of this city was struck by lightning, fire immediately following the bolt.  Despite the blinding rain and heavy electrical discharges, the fire boys responded promptly and for a while had a hard time getting the fire under control.  The blaze started on one corner of the tower and because of the extreme height and the slippery condition of the roof caused by the rain, it was found necessary to fight the fire from the inside, which on account of the peculiar construction of the building was a hard thing to do.  However, persistent efforts finally overcame the flames, but not until they and the water combined had damaged the building to the estimated extent of $1,200.  This church is one of the finest and most modern churches in Southern Wisconsin and the fire boys deserve much praise for the way they responded to the fire call in such a storm.

70 Years Ago (1935):  Miss Vivian Knudson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Knudson, route 2, Evansville and Verne Jensen, son of Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Jensen, route 2, Edgerton, were married at 9 a.m. Saturday in the Lutheran parsonage, Stoughton.  The Rev. M. H. Hegge performed the ceremony.  Miss Marian Jensen, a sister of the groom acted as bridesmaid and Jack Knudson, a brother of the bride, was the best man.  Following the ceremony Mr. and Mrs. Jensen let for a week’s wedding trip through northern Wisconsin.  Upon their return they will be at home on Mr. Jensen’s parents’ farm two miles west of Edgerton.  He is employed at the Edgerton Shoe factory.  The bride is a graduate of the Evansville high school, class of 1929.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Dr. R. J. Gray, who for the past several years has maintained his office in the rooms over the Badger Heating and Plumbing Co. on West Main street, moved last week into the office at 3 East Main street formerly occupied by the late Dr. J. P. Guilfoyle.  Dr. Gray receives patients in his ground floor office every afternoon.

50 Years Ago (1955):  after finding the bacteria count in Lake Leota too high for safe swimming last week, Evansville board of health prohibited swimming at the lake until further notice.  Dr. R. J. Gray, who made the last bacteria count at the lake, said the unhealthy condition of the lake was probably the result of recent heavy rains which stirred up the waters.  Bacteria counts are made at the lake about once a week to determine its safety for swimming. Most of the counts are made by Dr. Gray.  Rock county’s sanitary engineer also checks the count periodically.  Swimming will be permitted again in the lake as soon as the bacteria count has dropped to a safe level.

40 Years Ago (1965):  The United Church of Christ Confirmation Class of 1965 included Nancy Schumacher, Peter Zoeller, Shirley Schneider, Nancee Cufaude, Kay Gill, Sue Gray, Margaret Sumner, and John Rowin.

30 Years Ago (1975):  A State Supreme Court ruling was given last week which decision upheld the ruling of circuit court Judge Arthur Luebke and the Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission ordering the city of Evansville to recognize the Teamsters Local 579 as the bargaining agent for certain city employees.  It is believed to be the first time in the history of the state that a municipality has appealed such an issue all the way to the Supreme Court and also the first time that an enforced bargaining order has been issued against a municipality.  The dispute began in the fall of 1969 and the city has continued to bargain individually with its employees.  The employees concerned are eight from the public works, five from the water and light department and three public safety department dispatchers.

20 Years Ago (1985):  Rev. and Mrs. William Walker and Becky, Emily and Claire, attended a camp for American Baptists of Wisconsin at Waupaca from June 23-29.  Accompanying them were Angie Franklin, Shannon Winger, Ashley Winger and Ruth Hedgecock.

10 years ago (1995):  Ground was broken Thursday night for the new addition at the library and the dozer was in place to start excavation on Monday.  Some 75 spirited local citizens were on hand for the historic event.  The new addition, which will be located behind the library, among many other things will allow for easier access for the handicapped.  The shovel and hard-hat group who turned the first spade fulls were Mayor Harlin Miller, Dick Waller, Alice Mackie, Janet Petterson, Kathy Rohde, Ruth Ann Montgomery, Diana Eager, Mark Kraft (architect) and Dr. Tom Benzinger.  In turning the first shovel full of soil Ruth Ann remarked that the event is a dream come true.

In Review  July 19, 2005
Third Week of July

130 Years Ago (1875):  Barley and rye are being cut giving good, heavy yield.  The fine rain of Saturday has assured a fine oat crop and was just in time to “set” a big yield of potatoes.  Corn promises first rate.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Kittie Drown will teach the Union village school this fall.  Nellie Drown goes to Brooklyn as principal of the high school there, and Lizzie Gillies takes charge of the Grammar department in Evansville High School.  We wish them all the success they deserve.

110 Years Ago (1895): B. S. Hoxie was taken home Saturday from Mr. Young’s house where he was at work.  He was very much prostrated by over work and the excessive heat.  Dr. Ewing was called, but the patient had to remain pretty closely in his room for several days.  He is now much better but not able to go to his work yet.  His daughter, Mrs. Kemp, of Madison, came Saturday and Mrs. Van Patten, of Albany came Monday.  [note:  Benjamin S. Hoxie was an architect/builder for many of the fine homes in Evansville.  Mr. Young’s house was at 104 Garfield, on the northwest corner of Garfield and North First Street.]

100 Years Ago (1905): Bessie Broughton, Marian Purinton, Olga Knudsen and Mr. and Mrs. Silloway were added to the membership of the Congregational church Sunday.

90 Years Ago (1915):  J. C. Robinson and son loaded fifteen bulls from their famous herd of Hereford cattle for shipment to the Pitchfork Ranch, in Wyoming.  This is one of the most valuable shipments of stock ever made out of Evansville.  Included in the number was one three-year-old bull that the new owner will not take $5,000 for.  The purchaser is L. D. Phelps.  The cattle will go over the C & N. W. to Council Bluffs, where they will be transferred to the C. B. & Q., the Black Hills branch, and go to Billings, Mont., from there to Cody Wyo. and from there they will be driven over land 55 miles to their destination.

80 Years Ago (1925):  A new enclosed porch has recently been constructed on the Fred Brunsell home on the corner of West Main and Second Street.  The front porch of the R. M. Antes residence was screened in last week.  An enclosed porch has been constructed this spring on the Henry Austin home on the corner of Mills and North Madison Streets.  The oil sprinkling crew have been busy this week oiling many of the streets in the city.

70 Years Ago (1935):  The closing of the Hotel Central in the heart of the city’s business district and the selling of its furnishings at auction has prompted Evansville business men to continue their efforts toward the organization of a stockholding company for the remodeling of the building into a modern and attractive structure.  The consensus of opinion among local merchants is that a reconditioned building with sufficient street space for store rentals would be of great value to the city, not only in inducing traveling men and other transients to remain here for overnight lodgings, but in providing a place for lodge banquets, conventions and other civic gatherings.

60 Years Ago (1945):  According to a statement made early this week by the Rev. Francis J. Mehigan, pastor of St. Paul’s Catholic church here, the annual Irish picnic will be omitted again this year due to current war conditions.  For 18 years, prior to 1943, the yearly event was anticipated by hundreds of persons in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois, who always reserved the second Sunday in August to attend St. Paul’s top ranking festivity.  Two years ago, the Rev. Mr. Mehigan and the members of the church discussed the advisability of holding the picnic as in former years and decided to omit it due to the shortage of gasoline and tires, the rationing of food and other war conditions.

50 Years Ago (1955):  Mrs. Willis Griffith, Miss Hattie Axtell, Mrs. Clyde Babcock, V. A. Axtell, Rev. Wendell Marshall, Potter Porter, Miss Lillian Gibbs, Mrs. John Baker and Mrs. F. W. Hansen were guests of honor at a recent fete held in the Congregational Church for members of 50 or more years.  In a talk given by Leonard Finn, Mr. Axtell was especially cited for his long term of years as a member of the church.  Many other are in the 50-year group but live in other cities.

40 Years Ago (1965):  Egiht teams are meeting in the VFW Teener state baseball tournament in Stoughton this week.  The teams are made up of boys 13 – 16 years of age.  Evansville will play Edgerton.  The winner will play the winner of a game between Cottage Grove and West Allis.  Brad Bishop, Kent Lessandrini, Kenny Fuchs, Richard Kimberley, Denny Reese, Mark Vandervort, Tom Allen, Ron Thornton, Bob Hrdlicka, Jeff Bair, Steve Erbs, Daryl Fuchs, and Dave Baumgarten are members of the 1965 VFW Teener Baseball Team.  Lee Maxwell coaches the team.  Malcolm Hull, is assistant manager and Vic Fuchs, manager.

30 Years Ago (1975):  The Rev. Joshua Crowell has resigned his pastorate of the Congregational United Church of Christ here and has accepted a call from the First Congregational Church in Essex, Conn.  The Rev. and Mrs. Crowell have been residents here the past eight years since he accepted a call to the local church.  In addition to their church activities they have contributed much to the civic life of the city and will be missed in many ways.  Mrs. Crowell especially by musical groups and he as a volunteer fireman.

20 Years Ago (1985):  At the council meeting held on Tuesday night of last week Bob Gundlach of Donohue and Associates reported on the land situation on the east side of town showing council members a map of the area owned by the City for possible sale for development.  He informed council members that putting a gravel road, a grinder pump system and water main but no extension of sanitary sewer, would cost $125,000 with the payback from the Anderson Trucking Co. which plans to build in the area amounting to a possible $30,000.  Gundlach advised council members that this would not be economically feasible unless the city actively pushes development in the area.

10 years ago (1995):  Fifth Street residents will have a new look due to the city council’s approval last Tuesday night of the final plans and assessments for the street.  The new street will run from Fourth Street to Porter Road.  One sidewalk will be placed on the east side of the street from Garfield to Porter Road.  The width of the road will be 36 feet from curb to curb.  March 1996 is the anticipated starting date for the project.  The completion date should be September 1996.

IN REVIEW JULY 26, 1875 - 1995

In Review
130 Years Ago (1875):  Mr. Locke W. Brigham proposes to open a high school in Cooksville, Monday, Aug. 30.  In the schools Mr. Brigham has taught he has proved himself an efficient teacher, in common and higher branches.

120 Years Ago (1885):  Messrs. Tuttle, Bullard & Co. have shipped the murderous bull to Chicago, to be consigned to the shambles unless he shows a little more docility than when owned by the late Hiram Bullard, whose tragic death was mentioned last week.  Mr. Bullard paid $300 for the animal and he will probably sell for some $30, now.

110 Years Ago (1895):  Married in this city, Thursday evening, July 25, Mr. Theodore Estes and Miss Blanche Springer, by the Rev. J. Scott Davis.

100 Years Ago (1905):  The Misses May Finn, Maude Gibbs, Maud and Grace Fessenden, Elizabeth and Nellie Decker, Katherine Lay, Mabel Hollenbeck, Etta Hollis, Elizabeth a. miller, Lydia F. Crichfield, Lulu B. Howard, Alice Roherty, Lula Fisher, Marie E. Green, Minnie J. Jones, Anna Meeley, Alice M. Copeland, Minnie A. Edwards, Louise Newman, Mary A. Roherty and L. Vera Fuller went to Janesville Monday, to attend the teachers’ county institute.

90 Years Ago (1915):  Miss Nellie Gory, daughter of John Gory, residing near here, narrowly escaped death in the Eastland Disaster Saturday morning.  She is employed by the Western Electric company and was on the ill-fated vessel when it turned over in the Chicago River, drowning over one thousand people.  She came out from the city on Saturday to spend a few days with her parents, who had been very anxious about her safety.  Miss Gory was one the second deck when the boat began to list and when it finally and suddenly lunged over on its side, she caught hold of the rail and hung onto the bar, suspended thirty feet above the water, until a tug boat came to her rescue.  She was with a party of three girls all of whom were saved.

80 Years Ago (1925):  Miss Esther Luther, Evansville, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Luther of Spring Green, and John J. Gundlach, Evansville, son of Mr. and Mrs. Max Gundlach, Spring Green were married at 7 a.m. Tuesday at St. Paul’s Church, Rev. S. J. Dwyer, officiating.  The bride wore a cream colored satin gown with hat to match and carried a bridal bouquet of sweet peas and baby breath.  Miss Lucy Luther, a sister of the bride was bridesmaid and wore a gown of green crepe de chine, carrying a bouquet of pink sweet peas.  George Gundlach, brother of the groom, was best man.  The wedding breakfast was served at the home of the groom’s sister and brother-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Griffith.  The young couple left immediately for Spring Green where a dinner and reception was held Tuesday evening at the home of the bride’s parents.  They then left on a honeymoon to Plain and other places near Spring Green.  They will return to Evansville, Sunday, where they will make their home, Mr. Gundlach being employed in the Baker plant.  Mr. and Mrs. Gundlach have the best wishes from their friends for a happy future.

70 Years Ago (1935):  The Evansville Construction company is this week erecting a new barn on the Lloyd Hubbard farm, two and one-half miles northwest of the city, using materials secured from the wreckage of A Century of Progress in Chicago.  When completed, the barn will be one of the most modern in this locality and will serve as a reminder of the World’s Fair which was visited by large numbers of Evansville residents throughout the two years of its existence.  The Hall of Science will be represented in the barn by four steel beams each of which measures 36 feet in length and weighs more than a ton.  The plywood being used as flooring is from the Sears Roebuck exposition building.  The steel beams and plywood were brought to Evansville on the large Brigham stock truck.

60 Years Ago (1945):  Mr. and Mrs. T. J. Estes, Evansville celebrated their golden wedding anniversary yesterday at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Estes, 432 South First Street.  Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Estes and Mr. and M