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Miscellaneous set

 

St. Valentine’s Day

Watertown Republican, 02 15 1861

 

St. Valentine’s day came and went this year with less excitement than usual.  But very few missives, we understand, were sent through the post office, and those were mostly of a scurrilous character, forwarded probably more for the sake of amusement than anything else, though in some cases undoubtedly prompted by a spirit of meanness and revenge.  It is well that this day, which was once observed in a better and different manner, should be passed over entirely, rather than be made an occasion as latterly has been the custom, for outraging the feelings of innocent and unsuspecting individuals.  As at present conducted, it certainly is “more honored in the breach than in the observance.”

 

St. Patrick's Day

Watertown Gazette, 03 18 1910

 

St. Patrick's Day was appropriately celebrated on Thursday by the members of St. Bernard's congregation.  Solemn High Mass was celebrated at the church at 10 a.m., the sermon being preached by Rev. Father Luby of Green Bay, a former student of Sacred Heart College.  In the afternoon and evening an interesting program was rendered at the parish hall, the exercises consisting of a literary and musical nature and a luncheon was served in the evening.  Nearly everyone in the city wore the green on that day.

St. Patrick’s Day

Watertown Gazette, 03 16 1911

On Friday of this week, St. Patrick’s day, High Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 o’clock at St. Bernard’s Church.  The sermon will be preached by Rev. Father Murphy of Columbus.  He is an eloquent speaker and a large congregation should be present to hear him.

 

New Year’s Day

Watertown Republican, 01 04 1861

 

We point with pride to the fact, and cite it as an evidence of the improvement of morals in this community, that on New Year’s Day, not a single case of drunkenness was seen on our streets; no cases of assault and battery occurred, and there was but one solitary dog fight.  Let it not be said hereafter that Watertown is the most abandoned and God forsaken place on the earth.  We always thought such a charge as that against her reputation was a wicked slander, and now we know it.  Her defamers are requested to make the necessary correction.

  More on New Year’s Day, 1861 

Watertown Republican, 01 04 1861

New Year’s Day passed off here very pleasantly.  The sleighing was excellent and every one seemed disposed to make the most of it.  Every available “pung” [a one-horse sleigh consisting of a box on runners] was brought into requisition and the most ordinary “nags” were pressed into the service and made to do duty on that occasion .  Young America was in its element and availed itself of the opportunity of the New Year in a way that old fogies know not except from observation.

 

The Late Storm

Watertown Republican, 02 01 1861

 

The memory of the oldest inhabitants runneth not back to the time when Wisconsin was so completely snowed under as by the storm of last week.  We were without trains from Chicago or Milwaukee for forty-eight hours, it being impossible for them to make any headway at all, until they were shoveled out of the snow banks, which in many instances were considerably higher than the top of the cars.  Large gangs of men were employed all along the line of the different roads for two days in clearing away the snow.  Taking it altogether it reminded one of the east where embargoes of that kind on travel are of frequent occurrence and looked for every winter as regularly as is the fleecy element itself that occasions the difficulty.  The storm was general all over the state, as we learn from our exchanges, and the depth of snow was even greater in some places than it was here.

 

Spring 1861

Watertown Democrat, 04 18 1861

 

This Spring, thus far, has been favorable for agricultural operations.  This month has been chilly and an unusually large amount of rain has fallen.  Much work remains to be done, if the crops are anything as heavy as they were last year.  The farmers improve every opportunity for plowing and sowing, but the season is getting late and nothing but the best weather will enable them to catch up and do all they would like to accomplish.  There is no use of despairing yet.  Whether there is peace or war, the surplus productions of the Northwest will be wanted.  We have the world for a market. 

 

If the country is plunged into civil strife, the demand for breadstuffs must be great, and prices materially improved.  As much land should be brought into use as can be properly cultivated, for there is no danger of growing too much grain.  Whatever may come, we all know that the region that holds in its granaries the food of the nation must soon have a large share of the nation’s gold.

 

March Weather—1911

Watertown Gazette, 03 30 1911

 

The weather during the month of March has been very fine up to Sunday.  Last week farmers were plowing and seeding, but on Sunday it turned cold, since which time we have been experiencing the usual March weather, with indications today of turning warmer.

 

Grand Ball

Watertown Gazette, 02 09 1911

 

The Richwood baseball club will give a grand ball at Cleveland Hall, Richwood, on Wednesday evening, Feb. 22.  Music by Wheeler’s four-piece orchestra.  The public is cordially invited.

 

Waterloo House

Watertown Democrat, 04 11 1861

 

S. W. Budlong, who has all the qualifications of a popular landlord, has recently taken charge of the Waterloo House and is going to run that institution for the benefit of the public.  Budlong is one of those genial, social landlords who makes every traveler a friend and by his accommodating disposition secures the good will of everybody.  He will keep a first class hotel and all who seek comfort and the best accommodations will find them under his hospitable roof.

 

Mayor-Aldermanic System Returns

Watertown Daily Times, 03 08 1961

 

A. E. (Mike) Bentzin, Watertown business leader, yesterday swept to top place in a field of six candidates seeking the nomination for the city's first mayor in 10 years, a contest which will be decided at the spring election April 4.  Running second and thus being the opponent of Bentzin in April was George Shephard, veteran office holder here who is now a member of the city council and who was for many years street commissioner under the mayor-aldermanic system to which the city returns at noon on April 18.

 

Watertown Daily Times, 04 05 1967

 

Watertown’s new mayor — A. E. (Mike) Bentzin, former president of the board of education and a former member of the board of police and fire commissioners — elected yesterday, will take office on Tuesday, April 18 and will preside at his first regular council meeting that night. Mr. Bentzin was elected over O. Harvey Krause, the other nominee, by a vote of 1,932 to 1,766. Robert P. White, mayor for the past six years who was eliminated for an unprecedented fourth term by the voters in the March 7 primary but who entered the race as a write-in candidate, ran third in yesterday’s election. He polled 1,330 votes.

 

Watertown Daily Times, 04 18 1967

 

A. E. Bentzin, who is to be sworn in tonight as mayor of Watertown, last night proposed to members of the “new” common council that a separate administration unit be created to preside over and direct the affairs of the city’s parks and recreation department. The suggestion met with general approval and steps to set up what is to be known as the park and recreation commission will be taken at tonight’s council meeting when an ordinance to that matter is introduced. Under the plan, as suggested by the new mayor, the commission would consist of seven members, five to be named by the mayor with the approval by the council, plus two others, one to be named by the board of education and the other by the Watertown Council of Parents and Teachers. The latter two would serve for terms of one year while the other five would serve for four years, but their terms would be “staggered” at first in order to get the proper appointive procedure underway.

 

August Tank

Watertown Republican, 01 25 1861

 

Sheriff Smith has appointed Gerard Crane, of Fort Atkinson, Under Sheriff.  He has also appointed August Tank, of this city, one of his Deputies.

 

A Good Time

Watertown Republican, 01 25 1861

 

Quite a party of ladies and gentlemen went from here to Oconomowoc.  This is just the time for excursions of this kind.  The sleighing never was better and the evenings could not possibly be any pleasanter than they are now.

 

More Snow

Watertown Republican, 01 25 1861

 

Some six to eight inches of snow fell Wednesday night so that it must be now on a level not far from two feet deep.  As we write the wind is howling terribly and the snow is blowing in all directions, so that we expect to hear of a general blockade of the roads.

 

Capt. Albert Mertz, Beaver Dam,

Promoted by President Taft

Watertown Gazette, 12 02 1910

 

After forty-three years service in the United States Navy, Capt. Albert Mertz has been made a rear admiral by President Taft.  Admiral Mertz was born on the Ebert farm at Richwood, Dodge County, and is well known in Watertown.  He still retains his legal residence in Beaver Dam.  Admiral Mertz first served in the Asiatic squadron, and later was an officer on the Alliance, Omaha, Marion, Minnesota, Constellation, Michigan, Fern, Essex, Glacier and other ships of the navy.

 

In 1908, then a captain, he commanded a fleet of light ships which were taken around Cape Horn from the Atlantic coast to San Diego, Cal.  Three light house tenders and three lightships composed the fleet which dared venture on the perilous voyage around the southern part of South America.  The trip took Capt. Mertz and his crew 124 days.  For over a year Admiral Mertz has been in command of the important naval stations at Cavite and Olongopo, P.I.  The station at Cavite is one of the most important naval bases in the Philippine Islands, and for some time has been the home station of the Asiatic squadron.  Admiral Mertz is one of the oldest officers in length of service in the navy.  He is now 60, and has two more years service before him before retirement.

 

A. J. Schmitz Speech

Watertown Gazette, 10 28 1910

 

Monday evening Hon. A. J. Schmitz, democratic candidate for governor, and John M. Callahan, democratic candidate for secretary of state, were booked to appear at Turner Opera House to deliver democratic speeches.  Mr. Callahan failed to appear, the State Central Committee finding it necessary to change the program and sent him to Port Washington for that evening.  Mr. Schmitz, however, was on hand and spoke for nearly two hours to a fair-sized audience.  He dwelt at length on national and state affairs, confining his remarks to national affairs principally on the tariff issue, which he handled in a very effective manner.  On state affairs he delivered one of the very best speeches ever listened to here, setting forth figures taken from the state records, which show that the population of this state has increased only about 25 per cent, in 10 years, the state’s expenses in that time having increased over 600 per cent.  Mr. Schmitz's speech was well received, and he gave his audience the impression that with him in the governor's chair there would be something doing besides a constant yearly raise of state taxes.  State Senator Paul O. Hustings of Mayville, and A. G. Schmedeman, of Madison, democratic candidate for congressman in this district, delivered brief speeches.  John J. Brusenbach, president of the A. J. Schmitz democratic club of Watertown, presided at the meeting.

 

Just the Place

Watertown Republican, 01 25 1861

 

Amongst the many places in Chicago which we have visited, in which are displayed the most enchantingly beautiful and unique things usually exhibited and sold at a first class Crockery Establishment, we have seen none which pleased us more than that of Thomas P. Byrn, Esq.  The taste exhibited, the unexcelled variety and eccentricity and richness of the wares, all show that no pain or expense is spared to make this one of the most inviting and attractive houses in the great West.  We conjecture that, to most persons not in the habit of visiting such institutions, they would be [in for] a delightful surprise and wonder; and if gentlemen and ladies would just step in and spend a few moments when in Chicago, looking around and admiring articles, it would not be very strange if they should carry away with them something of exquisite form and coloring, to be exhibited in the cottage or mansion . . . instead of the second hand or shop-worn articles hawked about and sold by some wandering specimen of the tribe of Abraham.

 

Liberty League Organized

Watertown Gazette, 04 22 1910

 

A branch of the Liberty League has been organized in Watertown with the following officers:

 

President—John Schatz

Vice President—William C. Raue

Secretary—H. R. Moldenhauer

Treasurer—Valentine Roth

Central Committee—Consists of officers and following members:  H. Kramer, Emil Kehr, Gabriel Keimig, William Kehr, Otto Biefeld, Gustav Neumann, Charles G_____, A. J. Schlueter.

 

Boston Store Excursion

Watertown Gazette, 04 13 1911

 

About 100 ladies left here on the 7:30 o'clock interurban car this morning, the car being a special one arranged for by the Boston Store of Milwaukee, free transportation to and from the city, and a free dinner, to all participants in the excursion.  No doubt many who took advantage of the excursion went merely for the ride and did not intend to purchase.  It is the experience of all in-land residents that money spent with home merchants is much better invested and goods and prices compare cheaper and better than those purchased in the larger cities.  The Boston Store is certainly enterprising, and those free rides must be paid for by patrons of the store who purchase goods.

 

600 Cases of Grippe

Watertown Gazette, 02 16 1911

 

That the 5,500 students at the University of Wisconsin should have an infirmary, where they could be treated in case of illness, is being urged by the authorities of the university.  At the present time the serious cases are being cared for at the Madison General Hospital and the Madison hospital for contagious diseases, but both of these are inadequate for students and other patients.  Since the first of January there have been over 600 cases of grippe among the students.  Many of these cases could have been avoided if the university possessed a student infirmary where afflicted persons could be properly treated and isolated from the rest of the students.  In the university section of Madison students are crowded together so closely in rooming and boarding houses that isolation of patients suffering from sore throat, grippe, colds, etc., is impossible.

 

New Dodge County Atlas

Watertown Gazette, 03 02 1911

 

The first shipment of the new Dodge County Atlas was made from Philadelphia Monday, Feb. 20th.  The delivery will be made as soon as they reach here, which may be ten days or two weeks. C. H. Milton, Beaver Dam Wis.

 

Intoxicating Drinks and Religious Assembly

Watertown Democrat, 04 04 1861

 

[Wisconsin law enacted]  Any person who shall sell any intoxicating drinks within two miles of any camp meeting, or other religious assembly, without the written permit of the person or persons having the oversight and management of such camp meeting or religious assembly, or who shall otherwise willfully interrupt or disturb such meeting or assembly, shall be punished by a fine of not more than fifty dollars nor less than five dollars . . . Any sheriff, coroner, justice of the peace or constable of the proper county shall, upon view or information, without warrant, arrest any person offending this act and shall seize any article of traffic or other property found in the possession of the person or persons so offending and convey the same to a place of safety and take the person or persons so offending before any justice of the peace.

 

Articles about the Farmer

Watertown Gazette, 03 09 1911

 

Some of the magazine articles written about the farmer are inspired by romance rather than realism and many contain glaring inaccuracies, but they are serving the good purpose of putting the farmer and his family right in the eyes of the world.  Far from being a blank, the farmer is now a prize in the marriage lottery.  Even the wife of the city men sometimes recognizes it enough to turn her eyes to the country places and help her husband’s eye to turn there too.  She is urged on often by the strain of seeing a more anemic look to his skin and the hair graying daily more and more on his temples.  The unmarried girl has only to look about her at these same signs and make comparisons with the farmer whom she sees driving his machine about the country.  Even her fastidious taste is likely to decide that it is the farmer who is the coming “good match.”

 

There is no reason on earth why the farmer of tomorrow should pass by the country girl and go to the city for a wife, but if fate or some other equally powerful factor in life does send him cityward he will not go wooing with the handicap of being "only a farmer."  It will be the city man who will be laboring under the handicap.

 

A Pioneer Settler Dead

Watertown Gazette, 03 16 1911

 

Reeseville Review:  Mr. Philip Reinhard died at his home in the village of Lowell on last Friday, March 3rd, 1911, at about one o’clock in the morning, of Brights disease . . . Mr. Reinhard was born August 30, 1833, in Germany and at the age of 14 years came to this country with his parents and settled in the town of Lowell . . .  After the deceased had spent the first few years of his married life on a farm he moved to the village of Lowell where he embarked in the mercantile business with J. W. Kampkin.  After his partnership had continued for about ten years Mr. Reinhard purchased the interest of his partner and conducted the business alone until 1901, when he disposed of his mercantile business to H. C. Merton.  For many years the deceased has been postmaster of the village of Lowell, which position he held up to the time of his death.  Mr. Reinhard has held many positions of trust and was president of the village at the time of his death.  The 20th of last December was his 50th anniversary of married life.

 

Fatal Accident in Cleaning a Well

Watertown Democrat, 06 21 1860

 

The Dodge Co. Citizen of the 14th inst. says:  We learn that two men were killed in Trenton last Saturday.  One of them was engaged in cleaning a well, in which it was found necessary to blast a rock.  After the explosion, he descended to resume his work and was suffocated by the gas before reaching the bottom of the well, so that he lost his hold of the rope and fell to the ground below.  The other man went down to his assistance and was suffocated in the same manner.

 

Godsell Farm Sold

Watertown Gazette, 03 09 1911

 

By virtue of a real estate deal, consummated last week, the town of Clyman will lose one of its most estimable families.  Former town treasurer Michael Godsell at that time disposed of his farm — the old Godsell homestead — to Hy. Steffen, possession to be given about the 15th of March.  The Godsell family will remove to Milwaukee county, where Mr. Godsell has purchased a 160 acre farm located about two miles south from Hales Corners.  The family is among the oldest and best known in the town and their departure will be regretted by Clyman people.—[Juneau Independent]

 

Fire at Palmyra

Watertown Democrat, 06 21 1860

 

We learn a fire was discovered in the store of Justus Carpenter, of Palmyra, which destroyed and damaged goods to a considerable amount.  The store was closed early in the evening and the fire was no doubt the work of an incendiary, as cotton batting was found lying on the floor of the store, saturated with burning fluid.  It will be remembered that some time ago Mr. Carpenter’s barn was burnt down in the same manner.  It is to be regretted that the rascal or rascals cannot be found out and brought to justice and receive that punishment which such crimes deserve.

 

Millionaires Must Unite

Watertown Gazette, 02 16 1911

[ Humorist Puck calls on them to stand together

against the arrogance of the laboring classes ]

 

Never has the arrogance of the laboring classes stood out so painfully as at present.  The garment makers have struck, our brass polishers have struck, machinists and taxi cabbies have struck, and now the poison has infected even the messenger boys.

 

Fellow-millionaires:  United we stand, divided we fall.  Let us now make a solemn covenant together.  Let us, the masters, the employers of labor, strike.  Let us discharge from our employ every laboring man on the payroll, from the second hairdresser to the youngest helper in the shops.  Man and boy, woman and child, let them be cast out.  Let us pay no more taxes to a government which has refused to protect us, and thereby throw out of work the horde of policemen, soldiers, constabulary, and the like who now live on our bounty.

 

The Lady’s Book

Watertown Republican, 01 25 1861

 

The LADY’S BOOK for February has been received and comes fully up to the promise of its publisher to make his magazine for 1861 still better and more interesting than any of its predecessors.  It is full of excellent reading matter and, besides, contains engravings, fashion plates, etc., etc.

 

Pecuniary Prosperity

Watertown Republican, 01 25 1861

 

Various elements constitute the sum which is essential to the pecuniary prosperity of a community.  Well directed industry and a wise frugality in most cases cannot fail to secure to the individual a worldly competence.  Labor may, and often is, bestowed upon objects which afford no adequate return; and hence there may be failure in this particular.  An individual may be industrious and may receive a full equivalent for time bestowed and effort put forth, and at the same time fail to prosper; in other words, by making bad bargains in the procurement of necessary articles.  A wise economy relates to real wants, and to the best manner of their supply, and does not include parsimony, supreme selfishness and other kindred traits.

 

Grand Ball

Watertown Gazette, 04 06 1911

 

Easter Monday the Bachelor Club of Hubbleton will give a grand Easter ball at Washington Hall, Hubbleton, to which the public is cordially invited.  Tickets 50 cents.  Good music.

 

Nashotah Seminary

Watertown Democrat, 04 12 1860

 

We have before us a catalogue of the Nashotah Theological Seminary situated at Nashotah, Waukesha County.  The management, judging from the list of officers, bespeaks great success to this institution.  The number of pupils now in attendance is most flattering.

 

Construction in Jefferson

Watertown Democrat, 03 22 1860

 

The Jeffersonian says that now that winter is passed its cheering to note the preparations many are making to build stores and dwellings.

 

High School Graduation Rates Rise

Dropout Rates Decline

Watertown Daily Times, 03 03 2001

 

The percentage of students graduating from Watertown High School is on the rise and dropout rates are on the decline, according to statistics released by the state Department of Public Instruction this week. The graduation rate increased in the Watertown district to 91.88 percent or 317 students during the 1999-2000 school year. This is in comparison to 89.52 percent or 299 students the previous year. “I always like to be above the state average and I would like to see it increase,” Principal Ivan Thompson said. “I'm not happy unless it's 100 percent. We want to give alternatives because each kid has individual needs. Today the kids are overwhelmed with the options they have, which is good,” he added.

 

Strayed

Watertown Democrat, 05 23 1861

 

From the farm of Kimball Hoyt, in the town of Milford, Jefferson County, May 4th, two mare colts, three years old.  One is nearly black, of medium size; the other dark gray, with a white spot in the forehead, also a little on the nose, and rather small.  When last heard from they were near the Catholic Church in Watertown [St. Bernard’s].  Whoever will inform the subscriber where they may be found shall be paid for their trouble.  Homer Hoyt, Milford.

 

Survive Alive House Restored

Watertown Daily Times, 03 11 2011

 

Editor, Daily Times:

 

The Watertown Kiwanis recently had a meeting honoring the volunteers who help to restore The Survive Alive House. The house was built by Kiwanis about 16 years ago, along with the gracious Capt. Ken Peterson who was working at the Watertown Fire Department at that time and Dawn McBride who at that time was a Kiwanian.  They took hold of this project along with the Watertown Kiwanis to make this dream come true . The materials were mostly donated by the local business to keep the cost within reason.  We all worked very hard on this project.  We had a lot of fun, story telling (doughnuts) and jokes while we worked.

 

The restoring of the house is now completed with the help of Ken Peterson, Deputy Chief Ralph Wandersee, material and time from John Toma from Toma Construction, Chuck Volrath redid the pay phone system, Jim Zuern with materials from Zuern Lumber and Steve Lehman for the new stove from Felton Electric.

 

The house will soon be at schools, gatherings, fairs, etc., to teach the children how to get out of a house in case of fire.  The house is completed with smoke added to detect a fire in progress so the children learn to keep low and get out quickly.  When you see this house out and about be sure to let the children go through as we have heard good results from the teaching of this Survive Alive House saved lives.

 

Many thanks to all.

Watertown Kiwanis

Edna DeWitt, Secretary

 

First United Church of Christ

Watertown Daily Times, 01 26 1961

 

Plans have been started for the observance this year of the centennial of the First United Church of Christ, Evangelical and Reformed, located at North Fifth and Cole Streets.  The Rev. R. J. Ratzlaff is pastor of the 100-year-old congregation.  A centennial committee has been organized and will formulate plans for the celebration.  The observance will not be held with one event or service, but rather will be spread out with a series of special celebrations over a period of time.

 

Coin for Wheat

Farmers’ Meeting

Watertown Democrat, 05 30 1861

 

A call for a public meeting of farmers in Dodge County, the object of which is to enter into an agreement as to what kind of money they will hereafter demand for wheat.  In the present unsettled and fluctuating state of the currency — the uncertainty that hangs over the securities, on which many of the western banks are based — some such step as this may be necessary to prevent heavy losses.  Already the community has suffered severe losses from the depreciation of state stocks, and while the banks have done all in their power to relieve the people in this respect, still it remains true that the only safety from further embarrassment is to demand gold for wheat, or what is equivalent to it.  This is a step in the right direction, and as far as practicable, it should be followed up.

 

Fish are Plentiful

Watertown Democrat, 05 30 1861

 

Fish are very plentiful in the river and large numbers are being caught by line and net.  Our streams abound with bass, pickerel, pike, perch and other varieties that are favorites.

 

Millinery

Watertown Democrat, 05 30 1861

 

We would call the attention of the ladies of this city to the Millinery establishment of Mrs. Pierson, whose rooms are in the Watertown Bank block, on First Street.  She can furnish them with bonnets and head dresses of the latest and most tasteful styles.  She never fails to please and gratify her customers, and supply them with just what they want and what best becomes them.  We cheerfully commend her to a liberal share of public patronage.

 

Sunday School Union

Sunday School Workers

Watertown Democrat, 05 30 1861

The Wisconsin State Sunday School Union commenced its first annual session in this city last Tuesday evening, at the Congregational Church.  Delegates representing the Sabbath Schools of different religious denominations are in attendance in large numbers, from all parts of the state.  This may be the commencement of an organization that may yet be the means of accomplishing a vast amount of good.  All know the advantages of Sunday Schools for early impressing on the tender minds of children the highest and purest religious truths, and if the number who now attend these nurseries of piety can be doubled, through the united efforts of an association like this, a work will be done that will tell most happily on the future character and minds of the rising generation.  This is the object the earnest and active friends of this Union have in view.  May their success surpass their highest expectations.  Surely here is a wide and noble field of labor — one in which the well-sown seeds of gospel truth will spring up and bear a thousand fold.

  More on Sunday School Union 

Watertown Democrat, 05 23 1861

 

State Sunday School Association – The Wisconsin State Sunday School Association will convene in the Congregational Church in this city on Tuesday evening next, the 28th inst., at 7 1/2 o’clock.  The session of the Association will be continued during Wednesday and Thursday.  There will be a concert by the children and youth of the Sunday School Scholars on Thursday afternoon.  The committee of arrangements rely upon the hospitality of the friends of Sunday Schools, and the citizens generally, to open their houses for the entertainment of delegates who will be present from all parts of the state and request all who are disposed to respond to this call to report as early as practicable to some member of the committee the number each can accommodate.  Arrangements have been made with the railroad companies by which delegates will be carried at half price.  Signed, F E Shandrew, W T Moak, C L Stockwell, Otis Hall, R L Reed, W C Fountain; Committee of Arrangements.

  More on Sunday Schools 

Who Would not be a Sunday School Scholar

Watertown Democrat, 06 27 1861

 

Today the children, teachers and officers of St. Paul’s Sunday School make an excursion to Nashotah and there, amid shady groves, trimmed lawns, and fanned by balmy breezes, will pass the shining hours in healthful amusements and delightful recreations.  The party will take the morning train of the Milwaukee and Western Railroad, proceed to the charming spot selected for the day’s diversions, and return by the evening train.  May one and all enjoy the welcome festivity — free from a thought or care or anxiety, and come back home with lighter hearts and firmer resolves, that the blessings and benefits of Sabbath School instruction shall teach a larger number during the coming year, and many more neglected children be brought under the salutary and elevating influence of religious instruction.  If we could, we would have the healing beams of the “Sun of Righteousness” light up the “morning of life” of every child in our land.

  More on Sunday School Union 

Watertown Gazette, 09 16 1910

A lively and interesting meeting of Sunday school workers of this city was held at the M. E. Church last Monday evening to organize a Sunday school workers union.  Thirty-three workers were present coming from seven of the local Sunday schools.  Four phases of possible work and benefit for such a union were presented by as many speakers.

 

The officers elected were as follows: 

President—Mrs. M. L. Eversz

Vice President—C. A. Skinner

Secretary—Miss M. Weise

Treasurer—M. E. Biefeld

 

At the next meeting, to be held Sept. 27, a constitution and plans for active work will be adopted.  It is also planned to have a representative of the state Sunday School Union present.  The meeting showed a spirit of courage and hopefulness for the future, and such a union will no doubt prove itself a strong factor for better and more effective work in our Sunday schools.

 

Ossian Dodge

Watertown Democrat, 06 27 1861

Ossian Dodge Coming Again — Next Tuesday evening the brilliant, inimitable and original Dodge will give a concert at Cole’s Hall, in this city.  Nobody can imitate Dodge, yet Dodge can imitate anybody.  The performance will be a concert and a comedy, a moral lecture and a patriotic appeal — a delineation of all that is noble or ridiculous, substantial or whimsical, in human nature.  Musical and pathetic as Dodge is by nature, by habit, and by education, yet it can hardly be said of him that he ever sings — he speaks and acts.  The characters delineated are constantly before you, and it is hard to dispel the illusion that they are there in their very persons.  And herein lies the power of this remarkable man.  True to his natural instincts, he never exhibits the repulsive side of man; he is never vulgar or profane.  He is no common dauber who must write the names before his caricatures, but a master artist, who paints human nature to the life and whose portraits have in them so much of character and resemblance, that they seem to move and live and act.

 

Wisconsin Editorial Association

Watertown Democrat, 06 06 1861

 

The Fifth Annual Meeting of the Wisconsin Editorial Association will assemble in the city of Watertown on Wednesday, June 19th, 1861, at 2 o’clock P.M.  The annual address will be delivered by E. A. Calkins of the Madison Argus and Democrat and the poem by A. M.. Thompson of the Hartford Home League.  Harrison Reed of the Madison State Journal will conclude this essay on the History of the Wisconsin Press.  It is desirable that every editor in the state should be present and take part in the proceedings.  Those residing in other states are invited to attend and will receive a cordial welcome.  – D. W. Ballou, Jr., Corresponding Secretary, Watertown.

  More on Wisconsin Editorial Assn 

The Editorial Convention

Watertown Democrat, 06 20 1861

This body is now in session in this city.  The order of proceedings cannot now be fully stated, but will probably be nearly as follows:  The Common Council rooms have been arranged for the purpose of holding the business meetings in them, they being the most convenient place for that object.  The public addresses will be delivered in the Congregational Church, during the evenings of Wednesday and Thursday, unless it should be thought best to have them all at one time, in which case notice will be given.  On Thursday afternoon we understand the ladies of the city will extend to all editors present an invitation to attend a Pic Nic party in Richard’s Grove — a cool and beautiful spot near by, and we venture to say they will do their part with a taste and grace that will make the affair the delightful feature of the occasion.  Our citizens will leave nothing undone that can contribute to the pleasure and gratification of those in attendance.  A cordial welcome will be given to all.

 

Noxious Weeds

Watertown Democrat, 06 06 1861

 

Chapter 206 [of a new state law]:  An act to prevent the spread of noxious weeds.  Section 1.  It shall be the duty of any and all persons residing upon or occupying any lands within this State, either as owner, lessee or otherwise, to destroy thereon all weeds of the species known at the snap dragon and Canada thistle, at such time and in such manner as shall effectually prevent the bearing seed.  Sec 2.  It shall be the duty of every overseer of highways to destroy all noxious weeds found growing either on the highway or on any unoccupied lands within the district for which he was appointed, or on unoccupied lands if the person or persons residing thereon shall neglect to so destroy, and he shall be entitled to the same compensation for the time actually spent in such service as for the discharge of the ordinary duties of overseer or pathmaster, payable out of the town treasury, upon order of the town board of supervisors.

 

Eggs

Watertown Republican, 01 25 1861

 

Large Egg—Mr. Crandall, post master at Emmet, has left a hen’s egg at our office, which measures 7 and 1/4 inches by 8 and 1/2 inches — the largest we recollect having seen.  By the way, every thing about friend Crandall’s farm is tip top, if not in every respect equal to this egg.

  More on Eggs 

Some Egg

Watertown Democrat, 06 13 1861

 

Mr. S. Wescott of the town of Watertown has placed on our table a curiosity in the shape of an enormous hen’s egg, which measures 7 1/2 inches around the longest way and 4 1/4 the shortest.  If any shanghai in this county can beat this specimen we should like to see it done.

  More on Eggs 

R. I. Red Eggs

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E. D. Stack, 739 N. Church Street.

Street view of this location:

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Watertown Gazette, 04 06 1911

 

When Frank B. Weber left for Oregon several weeks ago he took a package of R. I. Red eggs, purchased from E. D. Stack.  They  proved  profitable as will be seen by the following:

 

"Got of a batch of 46 eggs in a 50 egg Cycle incubator containing 38 of your R. I. Red eggs, and eight of mine — I got 33 chicks out of yours and five out of ours and I consider that a good hatch for a greenhorn.  I had never run an incubator before.  I am much pleased with your Reds, for everyone of the chicks are strong and healthy.  I wish you lots of luck with your chickens, as you justly deserve."

 

Jake Weber, R.F.D. No. 1, Box 68.

Eugene, Oregon.

 

Mr. Stack has also shipped a lot of egg to New York City and it is gratifying to know that Watertown's product for hatching goes to both coasts or across the continent.

  More on Eggs 

E. D. Stack

Watertown Gazette, 03 16 1911

 

Single Comb Rhode Island Reds are the greatest winter layers and the best general purpose breed in existence today.  They stand confinement well and are good foragers when on open range.  Just the breed for either the city man or the farmer.  I have an excellent winter laying strain of pure bred Reds and am selling eggs for hatching from two grand pens headed by high scoring males purchased from one of the largest Red breeders in this country.

Eggs — $1.50 for 15; $8.00 per hundred.

 

E. D. Stack, 739 N. Church Street.

 

Coin for Wheat

Farmers’ Meeting

Watertown Democrat, 05 30 1861

 

A call for a public meeting of farmers in Dodge County, the object of which is to enter into an agreement as to what kind of money they will hereafter demand for wheat.  In the present unsettled and fluctuating state of the currency — the uncertainty that hangs over the securities, on which many of the western banks are based — some such step as this may be necessary to prevent heavy losses.  Already the community has suffered severe losses from the depreciation of state stocks, and while the banks have done all in their power to relieve the people in this respect, still it remains true that the only safety from further embarrassment is to demand gold for wheat, or what is equivalent to it.  This is a step in the right direction, and as far as practicable, it should be followed up.

 

Hart Street

Common Council Proceedings

Watertown Democrat, 06 13 1861

 

Remonstrance of Thomas H. Bennett and others, against opening Hart Street, was presented by Ald. Quentmeyer, read and referred to Committee of Highways and Bridges.

 

Resolved, That the City Marshall is hereby directed to notify Thomas. H. Bennett, J. C. Noak, and all other persons who have obstructed Hart Street  in the Seventh Ward, to remove the obstruction within five days after being so notified, and in default, then the said Marshal is hereby directed to cause said obstructions removed immediately.  Adopted.

 

Pigeons

Watertown Democrat, 05 30 1861

 

Pigeons are now plenty in the woods; large flocks are constantly flying in all directions.  Sportsmen are getting their full share of fun and game out of their visit to this region.  Those who go hunting cannot be too cautious in order to prevent serious if not fatal accidents to themselves or others.  Hardly a season passes during shooting time in which we do not hear of some casualty caused by carelessness in the handling of guns.

 

The Forests, Fields and Meadows

Watertown Democrat, 05 30 1861

 

A wonderful change has come over the “glorious old woods” during the past week.  The warm weather has given a fresh impulse to vegetation and now the trees are clothed in the richest foliage.  The grass on the meadows has an appearance of freshness and vigor that gives the best promise of an abundant crop of hay.  Wheat is doing well.  In this part of the state it has seldom looked better.  A large amount has been sown and there is a good prospect that the crop this season will be even heavier than it was last year.  A favorable harvest will go far towards mitigating the burdens which the present unhappy hear war will necessarily impose on the people of the state.

 

Ixonia Center Post Office

Watertown Republican, 02 01 1861

 

A post office has recently been established at Ixonia Center, in this county.

 

Koshkonong Bank

Watertown Republican, 02 01 1861

 

We notice that a bill has passed the Senate of this state authorizing the Koshkonong Bank, of Fort Atkinson, to change its place of business.  We do not know where it is proposed to relocate it.

 

Henry Stager

Watertown Democrat, 06 06 1861

 

Henry Stager, having received the appointment of Deputy Surveyor for both Jefferson and Dodge counties, is now ready to promptly execute all orders he may receive with the greatest care and in strict accordance with the law.  Watertown

 

Church of the Holy Cross

Watertown Democrat, 04 11 1861

 

The last Jefferson Republican says a meeting of the Congregation of the Protestant Episcopal Church of that place was held for the purpose of organizing a parish, the Rev. L. R. Humphrey of Whitewater presiding.  A constitution was adopted by the new church and henceforth is to be known as “The Church of the Holy Cross.”

 

Bernhardt Ballock

Watertown Democrat, 06 13 1861

 

Last Saturday a lad about nine years old, named Bernhardt Ballock, son of Herman Ballock, while bathing in the river a few rods below Main Street bridge, was drowned.  Search was made for his body and it was found last Monday morning.  This is another warning to parents to keep their children away from such exposures, if possible.  It is well enough for boys to be good swimmers, but they should not be permitted to indulge in this healthy and invigorating exercise without the presence of those who can protect them, in case of danger

 

Dodge County Bank

Watertown Democrat, 06 27 1861

 

This bank made an assignment and closed its doors on the 17th inst.  There are reports to the effect that one of the officers has run away, carrying with him a large amount of funds, and that the depositors, many of whom are farmers, will lose all the money they entrusted to the keeping of the bank.  The Beaver Dam Argus, in making this announcement, says it is promised a full statement of the affairs and condition of the bank.

 

Indian Cruelties

Watertown Democrat, 06 27 1861

 

The Indians in the neighborhood of Stein’s peak, Arizona, have perpetuated horrible massacres and tortures on certain white travelers by the overland mail route.  Two Americans were killed and seven are missing.  The bodies of two were found pierced with arrows and lances, the ashes of the fires underneath by which they suffered martyrdom.  A party of sixteen United States regulars and a lieutenant from Fort McLane acted as escort to an emigrant train but could not find the savages.

 

The Fields and Meadows

Watertown Democrat, 06 27 1861

 

The grain fields in this vicinity are looking thrifty and vigorous; the copious shower of Tuesday will dispel all apprehensions arising from the effects of drought.  From all sources we hear favorable reports as to the promising condition of the crops.  Many have commenced haying, and by the first of next week every one will be engaged in this work.  Probably the largest and best yield of hay ever cut in this state is now falling before the scythe of the mowers.  The season has been unusually favorable for the growth of grass.  Corn is not so far advanced as it generally is at this time, but there is no doubt the crop will be at least an average one.

 

May Day

Watertown Democrat, 05 02 1861

 

May Day came to us with bright skies and a chilly atmosphere.  Vegetation is advancing slowly.  The fields have a fresh green look and the earlier fruit trees are in blossom.

 

Mrs. Anna Bock

The Death Roll

 

Mrs. Anna Bock, aged 58, wife of Mr. Henry Bock, passed away at 5 o’clock last Friday morning at the family home in the town of Emmet, death being due to heart failure.  Mrs. Bock was a native of Watertown, having been born there October 4, 1857.  She was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Fred Reckner.  She removed with her parents to town of Shields when she was eight years of age, making her home in that town until her marriage, which took place thirty-six years ago. 

 

She is survived by her husband, six children, three brothers, two sisters and three grandchildren. 

 

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at the late home at 1 o’clock, arriving at St. Luke’s Church, Watertown, at 2 o’clock.  Interment was in the Emmet. Cemetery.

 

Young People United in Marriage

John W. Ready of Richwood Weds a Watertown Lady

Will Reside in Shields

10-23-1915

 

A pretty fall wedding took place at St. Bernard’s Church at 9 o’clock Tuesday morning of last week when Miss Nellie Anna Carey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Carey of Watertown became the bride of Mr. John W. Ready of Richwood.  The service was read by the Rev. Thomas Hennessey.  The bride was attended by her sister, Miss Maud Carey, as maid of honor and the best man was Mr. Thomas Ready Jr. 

 

The bride was gowned in white embroidery over net and carried an arm bouquet of bride’s roses.  The maid of honor’s gown was of pink silk mescaline, trimmed with white fur, and she carried white carnations. 

 

Immediate relatives and intimate friends of the contracting parties gathered at the home of the bride’s parents, 716 O’Connell Street, after the ceremony, where a reception was tendered the bridal party, and a bounteous wedding dinner was served shortly after noon. 

 

The groom is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Ready.  He has won a charming young woman for his bride and will take her to live on the Ready homestead near Richwood where they will be home to their friends after November 1.

 

Pioneer Store

Watertown Democrat, 06 20 1861

 

Removal – Hilke has left the Pioneer Store and removed to the store recently occupied by Mr. Millard, in Cole’s Block, but he has no desire to leave his Pioneer customers, or have them leave him.  He is as ready and willing as ever to accommodate and please the public with dry goods and groceries.  He has a large and well assorted stock, and cordially invites all to give him a call at his new place.

 

Holstein Sale at Watertown

11-10-1916

 

The Inter-County Holstein Association Sale, to be held at Watertown Wisconsin, November 14 and 15, promises to be an event of considerable moment in Holstein circles throughout the state.  The inquiries for catalogs have been very lively, some coming from states as far distant as Oregon, Texas and Maryland.  This widespread interest can be accounted for in two ways: (1) the class of cattle being offered (150 head) which are of a high order both in point of individuality and breeding; (2) the safeguards offered prospective buyers, such as the sixty day retest guarantee, and the fact that the tuberculin testing has been supervised by the state department of Agriculture.  This creates confidence.

 

The consignors to the sale include some of the most prominent in Dodge and Jefferson Counties, as well as men who are known throughout the country in view of their achievements in the work of developing Holsteins.  They are: Tomkins Wright, Waupun; Edwin M. Schultz, Hartford; Edwin D. Gibbs, Fox Lake; Fred Albrecht, Watertown; O. E. Mullen, Watertown; F. G. Lehmann, Watertown, J. W. Goldthorpe, Milton Junction; Oak Point Farms, Juneau; O. E. Sette, Juneau; August Seefeldt, Theresa; Wm. Rhoda, Watertown; Henry Wieman, Watertown; Dolan Bros., Juneau; George Burmaster, Richwood; Wm. Goodrich, Fort Atkinson; John Bergin, Watertown; Horatio Ryder, Hustisford; James Mullen, Watertown; Emil Nitschke, Burnett Junction; Ed. Jahn, Watertown; E. C. Brill, Stewartsville, New Jersey.

 

Archbishop Messmer Issues

a Thanksgiving Edict

Watertown Gazette, 11 25 1910

 

Official recognition of the national Thanksgiving Day holiday by the Catholic Church is taken in an order issued by Archbishop S. G. Messmer and sent to all parishes in the diocese of Milwaukee.

 

The order for a religious observance of the day was announced in all the Catholic churches in the diocese on Sunday.  In the past years there have been services on Thanksgiving Day, but it was said that this had not been at the order of the archbishop.

 

The letter of the archbishop is as follows:

 

. . . "This year Thanksgiving Day falls on Thursday, Nov. 24, and you will please announce the religious observance herewith prescribed for that day to your people on the previous Sunday, Nov. 20.

 

"I wish the clergy to strongly exhort their congregations to assist numerously at the religious celebration.  What a beautiful sight, if our Catholic men's societies would turn out in full numbers for such a Christian observance of the day.  We may thus be able to preserve the truly Christian and religious character of our national Thanksgiving Day, which otherwise threatens to become a day of merely worldly dissipation."

 

Eyewear Unlimited

Watertown Daily Times, 04 06 1986

 

Eyewear Unlimited has opened in its new location at 114 East Main Street and plans to offer added services to its patients and customers.  The business will offer same day or next day service for single-vision lenses beginning May 1.  Multi-focal lenses will take only two or three days, according to Dr. Vern Smebak, owner.  He said he also plans to offer same day service for 80 percent of customers needing single-vision soft contact lenses.  Smebak is an optometrist with offices at the same location.  Patients needing eye examinations are seen by appointment.  The business has improved its laboratory facilities at the new location and now has more equipment and supplies, allowing the increased services.  It has also increased its inventory of frames for glasses.

 

Constant Fleissner

Watertown Gazette, 05 11 1911

 

Northwestern College Student Drowned.  Constant Fleissner of Manistee, Mich., aged 17 years, a student at the Northwestern College in this city, while bathing in the river at the Rough and Ready dam last Wednesday afternoon, was drowned.  His body was recovered about three minutes afterwards.

 

Frank McLaughlin

Reappointed Weed Commissioner

Watertown Gazette, 05 04 1911

At the meeting of the City Council last Tuesday night Frank McLaughlin was reappointed weed commissioner for the ensuring year by Mayor Grube.  The council raised the salary of the office from $75 to $85.  Frank attended well to the duties of the office last year and the mayor did well in reappointing him.

 

Killed by Train

Watertown Gazette, 05 11 1911

 

An unknown tramp was killed Tuesday afternoon on the C. M. & St. P. Ry. between the Junction and Milford Street crossing.  He attempted to board a freight train and his hold loosened and in falling his head struck the oil box and the skull was crushed.  His body was moved to the morgue.  A piece of paper was found in his pocket on which was written "Lincoln and Patrison aves., Lester Hotel, Chicago, Ills.”

 

Tramps Cocaine Victims

Watertown Gazette, 06 01 1911

 

It is claimed that many of the tramps seen in our streets, supposedly drunk, are in a stupefied condition caused by snuffing cocaine, which they purchase at some drug store either in Watertown or elsewhere.  This is a condition of affairs that should be investigated.

 

New Autos

Watertown Gazette, 07 13 1911

 

Deputy Sheriff Charles A. Vaughan is now the owner of a fine four passenger Sampson auto, and E. W. Schultz, Max H. Gaebler and Louis H. Cordes have recently purchased Bush cars.

 

He Votes Contrary to

What He Preaches

Watertown Gazette, 05 18 1911

 

Editor Times:—For several years past it has been the custom of various towns, villages and cities, in the election of supervisors, to pay but little attention to politics.  We find democratic localities electing republican, and republican constituencies choosing democrats,  and in some cases without opposition, showing an indifference and appreciation of the fact that there is something of more importance to the voters than the one as to what party collar the candidate wears.  Taxpayers have found that non-partisan in these affairs has resulted in the greatest harmony in the boards at their meetings, the transaction of their affairs in a businesslike manner, and with sessions materially shortened, all redowning to the benefit of the people at large.  Every one, unless he be a hide-bound politician and considerate individual caring more for party than the public good, will admit that the policy above outlined has everything in its favor to which no valid objection can be raised.  It is well known that the real work of the board is performed through committees, and that any system through which they are selected entirely for their fitness and regardless of political considerations, is the one that gives the best results.  The majority of people are more interested in the administration of affairs which is best for them and at least cost, as shown by their taxes, than they are as to whether or not the political party to which they belong has won out in the organization.   From this standpoint, as a taxpayer, it seems to me that any attempt to organize the next board along factional lines for factional purposes, would be a serious mistake and should be discountenanced.

- Tax Payer

 

The above communication appeared in a recent issue of The Watertown Daily Times.  To the unsophisticated the above seems a very wise policy to pursue and it makes nice reading for the partisan republican in an overwhelmingly democratic community when a republican knows that it is only by such talk as this that he stands a ghost of a show of getting an office, especially so when the woods are full of able, honest and capable democrats to fill the public offices.  The Gazette is not out of the way when it assumes that the writer of the above is a republican, and a republican who never fails to vote for a republican when he gets a chance, and if he has a chance to vote for a republican at the meeting of the county board this month, and there is any possible show to elect a republican as chairman, the republican candidate gets his vote.  The writer of the above is interested in the election of a republican for chairman of the county board of supervisors a thousand times more than he is in nonpartisanship, and we hope that every democrat at the organization of the board will have the courage of his convictions, and vote for a democrat for chairman; the county board has a good voting majority of democrats and should have a democratic chairman.  The public affairs of the county will be just as well taken care of as if Mr. Taxpayer succeeded in getting a partisan republican elected chairman by the route of preaching nonpartisanship.  That bait has been used fishing for office in this county by republicans so long, that democrats in the future are not going to bite very often.

 

A similar article, signed  "A Voter" appeared in the last issue of The Leader.  Both articles no doubt originated in the same prolific brain, and we presume the writer believes  "a rose by any other name would smell just as sweet" to the "Heathen Chinee" advocate of dealing with political matters.  A measure of this  kind if worth advocating in the public press should bear the writer's signature to have any weight with the intelligent voter — that is the manly way to do such things, but then we presume the writer is ashamed of his own production and has not the courage to let the public know who he is.  The object is to get the three Watertown democrats on the board to vote for a republican.  It is wind warted, as Messrs. Murphy, Hoge and Knick are thoroughbred democrats.

 

Farm Auctions Will Be Dry

Watertown Gazette, 06 01 1911

 

The bill prohibiting the sale or use of liquor at any public auctions held in this state has become a law.  It reads as follows:  It shall be unlawful for any person to sell, furnish, or give away any strong, spirituous or malt liquors at any public auction held in this state, or to any person or persons in attendance at any such auction, and any person who shall so sell, furnish or give away any such liquor or drinks shall be deemed guilty of an evasion of the excise laws, and upon conviction therefore shall be punished by a fine of not less than thirty dollars nor more than one hundred dollars, or by imprisonment in the county jail for not less than three months nor more than six months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

 

Watertown Floral Greenhouse

Watertown Daily Times, 05 17 2001

 

Most Watertown businesses and homes seem to have escaped serious damage in Monday afternoon’s hailstorm, but a city florist with seven glass greenhouses incurred serious damage to her facility from the jagged, golf ball-sized ice pellets.  Karyn Cable of Watertown Floral Greenhouse, 225. E. Arcade Ave., told the Daily Times after Monday’s storm that her facility’s seven glass greenhouses were reduced to nothing but shards by about 1 p.m.  “When the storm came through, we heard a lot of loud noises and we knew it was hail,” Cable said.  “We tell everyone who works for us that they are to get under benches or into the plastic greenhouses instead of the glass ones . Everyone was pulled into safe areas, but we lost all seven of our glass greenhouses.  So we are waiting for the insurance companies to get in touch with us to figure out how to get the glass out safely without any more damage.”

 

Theodore H. Volckmann

Watertown Daily Times, 05 02 1961

 

Mr. and Mrs. Theodore H. Volckmann, 1142 North Fourth Street, were guests of honor at a dinner at the Legion Green Bowl Saturday evening, a testimonial to Mr. Volckmann who retired as city assessor, an office he held for the past 11 years.  The dinner and social evening were arranged by fellow city workers and department heads.  City Clerk Glenn R. Ferry served as toastmaster and the formal program which followed included brief addresses by officials and department heads, including one by Mayor Robert P. White.

 

Dodge County Probate Court for Watertown

Watertown Gazette, 07 13 1911

 

According to a law recently passed by the Wisconsin legislators Judge Lamoreux of Dodge County will hold probate court on the first Monday in each month in the Fifth ward hall in this city.  The city council should see to it at once that this hall is put in proper shape for the holding of court and that a sidewalk is put in leading up to the hall.  People in this section of the county will find this court a great convenience to them.

 

The first term of court will be held here on Monday, August 7, 1911.

 

Motorcycle Races

Watertown Gazette, 07 06 1911

 

Sunday afternoon a large crowd of people attended the motorcycle races at the fair grounds in this city.  At the close of the sixth event, the two-mile race, Oakley Fischer ran into Walter Kohn and the latter was quite seriously injured.  The following is a list of events . . .

 

Seriously Injured

Watertown Gazette, 06 15 1911

 

Last Friday afternoon while Eugene Jones of Muskegon, Mich., was employed by the Watertown Gas & Electric Co., working on an electric light pole at the corner of North Washington and West Green streets, the pole broke off at the ground carrying Mr. Jones with it, he having been strapped to the pole with a safety belt.  He fell face downward and was quite seriously injured.  Dr. Kings was called to attend him and had him taken to St. Mary's Hospital.

 

Boy Drowned

Bauer, Alfonze, b. Mar 1, 1898, d. Jun 30, 1911

Watertown Gazette, 07 06 1911

 

Friday afternoon Alfonso Bauer, aged 13 years, son of John Bauer, 1204 River Drive, was drowned in Rock River near Boomer’s dam, while bathing.  He could not swim and went into the river beyond his depth.  Two other boys were with him and Jerome Butler, one of his companions, nearly drowned in attempting to save him.  Louis Pungit, superintendent of the feeble-minded home, was near by, and, hearing the boys cry for help, hurried to the rescue and succeeded in getting the boy’s body out of the water.  Sunday afternoon his remains were interred in Oak Hill Cemetery.

 

What is Hell?

Watertown Gazette, 07 13 1911

 

An unknown writer says: A man said to me the other day, "I can't feel sympathy for folks in trouble because I've never had any trouble, I wish I could."  The man who has had sorrow, who has known what it means to play and lose, who has reached out with all his soul and his strength for something and has been given disappointment, who has tasted of ingratitude, who has suffered from enemies — there is the man to whom the gods have been good.  Such a man has sympathy.  He understands he can send his soul out to live in the souls of others.  He can enter into the joys as well as the griefs of others.  He can touch life at an infinite number of points.  To him life is rich.  He can cry out with all his strength:  Life is good.  He knows that it is good.  One who has had no sorrow only suspects that life is good.  It is because of the darkness that we love the sun.  It is because of hunger that we love food.  Only one who has slept doubled up in a drygoods box or in a garret where the snow crept in as a bed fellow knows what a luxury an Ostermoor is [as in Ostermoor mattress, manufactured by American Luxury Mattress]. 

 

L. H. Guldman

Watertown Gazette, 08 10 1911

 

L. H. Guldman, who some 30 years ago clerked in the dry goods store of M. A. Hirsh, formerly in the buildings in Main Street now occupied by Edward M. O’Byrne’s candy store and the Sommer’s book store, was in the city on Sunday . . .  

 

Bold Robbery

Watertown Gazette, 08 03 1911

 

At 9:30 o’clock Sunday morning Louis Becker of Columbus was robbed of his pocket book containing $700 in checks and $45 in currency.  He had just arrived in the city and was assisting a lady to get her valise on the train when the robbery occurred.  A large, portly man brushed against him and impeded his passage and at the same time a supposed confederate pulled Mr. Becker’s wallet from his hip pocket.  Becker turned and caught the fellow, but the large man came to the pick-pocket’s assistance, and Becker was worsted in the struggle and the two fellows skipped up town.  Becker caught up with them on Washington Street near Paul Thom’s residence and began hollering they had his pocket book.  One of them ran back of J. D. Casey’s wagon works and disappeared and the other escaped in the crowd.  The police were notified and a search made for them, but without avail.  A telephone message was sent in from Schott’s corner that the fellow was around there, but the party taking the message misunderstood it as the sharp corner and while the police were hunting in that portion of the city the fellows once more were lost track of. 

 

They are supposed to be from Milwaukee and took advantage of the large crowds of people here on Sunday to work their game.  Becker is out his $45, but the checks will be of no use to the parties stealing them, for payment will be stopped on them.

 

Bold Robbery

Watertown Gazette, 08 03 1911

 

Saturday evening a thief stole the hand bag of Conductor John Schultz from the interurban car that arrived here at 6 o’clock, the bag containing $15 in cash and $414.15 worth of tickets.  The conductor did not discover his loss on his return trip to Milwaukee until reaching Oconomowoc.  He phoned the police here from Waukesha and Chief of Police Block rounded the fellow up at the Northwestern Hotel and arrested him.  He plead guilty to the charge and returned the grip which he had hidden near the coal sheds of the C. & N. W. Ry.  Most of the money and all of the tickets were returned.  The fellow claims to hail from Chicago and had a suitcase containing working clothes with him when arrested.  Monday morning he waived examination before Justice Stacy and was bound over to the circuit court in default of bail.

 

Sullivan Condensed Milk Co

Watertown Gazette, 08 17 1911

 

Sullivan Condensed Milk Company offering of preferred stock.  The company has no existing mortgage, nor can any be created or placed ahead of the preferred stock, except with the written consent of the holders of two-thirds thereof.  Preferred as to assets as well as dividends.  The company is recognized as being financially able to carry out any contract they might make.  The present earnings of the company from the creamery business alone at the present are double the amount necessary to pay interest charges.  The condensed milk business is no longer experimental.  E. C. Stage, who has been engaged for the management of the condensing plant, is a practical man, with large experience in the largest condensing plants in the country.  The plant, now under construction, will be a building 86x168 feet, of reinforced concrete, two stories high.  The Chicago & NorthWestern Railway is now building a sidetrack to the plant.  Sullivan is located in the center of one of the largest milk producing centers of Wisconsin.  The Sullivan people practically control the milk supply within a radius of ten miles.  The supply is unlimited.

 

Miss Mullen Receives Appointment

at Marquette University

Watertown Gazette, 08 03 1911

 

The prospectus now being sent out by the department of music of Marquette University contains a fine half-tone cut of Miss Genevieve Mullen, daughter of Andrew Mullen and wife, Church Street, this city, and the following complimentary notice:

 

“Miss Mullen, a talented young musician, who possesses a soprano voice of extraordinary sweetness, unusual richness and dramatic power, will teach vocal culture at the Marquette Conservatory next year.  Most carefully trained by the best instructors of Milwaukee and Chicago, Miss Mullen is meeting with the most gratifying results in her pupils.”

 

We congratulate Miss Mullen on having her musical talents recognized by so famous an educational institution as Marquette and we feel positive that her work there will be creditable to herself and the university.

 

The appointment will not in any way interfere with Miss Mullen’s work in the public schools of Watertown, as director of music, to which she was appointed Wednesday evening by the school board, as her work at Marquette will require only a part of her time on Saturdays only.

 

Owen Mullen’s New Home

Watertown Gazette, 08 17 1911

 

The new home of Owen Mullen on the West Road is being fitted out with everything up-to-date – sanitary plumbing, an electric lighting plant, etc.  His electric light plant is known as the Tungsten battery system.  The power is supplied the dynamo by a gasoline engine used in pumping water for cattle, and the plant has been put in by Frank Petro at an expense of $500.  The system, beside lighting his house, also extends to his barn and all farm houses on the premises.  Mr. and Mrs. Mullen and family have the good wishes of their hosts of friends in their new home, which is one of the finest in this section of the country.

 

Dynamite on Desk

Watertown Gazette, 08 03 1911

 

Last Thursday Arthur F. Runyan, superintendent of the Prudential Life Insurance Co., was absent from his office in the Merchants National Bank annex and on his return he found a stick of dynamite on his desk with a written message “leave town” alongside of it.  He [had] left for Fort Atkinson on the 11 o’clock passenger and on his return at 2:45 he turned the dynamite over to the Chief of Police.  Between the above hours Dr. Haney, who has an office in the bank annex across the hall from Mr. Runyan, says he heard someone enter the latter’s office and remained there a short time.  The dynamite was placed on the roll-top desk where it would be struck if the desk were closed before it was discovered.  Mr. Runyan says he does not know of an enemy he has on earth and is at a loss to know who seeks his life.

 

Junior Bacon

Watertown Gazette, 08 10 1911

BORN – A son was born on Thursday to Gordon E. Bacon and wife, North Washington Street.  This is their first born and Mr. Bacon’s usual genial smile has been more noticeable since the arrival of the little fellow.  The Gazette extends hearty congratulations and trusts that the junior Bacon will grow to be as good a citizen as his fond parents.

 

Letter from Mrs. Bruss

Watertown Gazette, 08 10 1911

 

Milwaukee, Wis., August 5, 1911

Editor Gazette:  Enclosed find $2.00 for subscription to your paper, The Watertown Gazette.  Your new subscriber is a former Watertown party.  I was born in Watertown in 1879, on College Ave., spent part of my youth there, but the rest of my happy childhood days were spent on Cady Street, east side of the city.  I am a daughter of a very well known former resident; father has passed away and gone to rest since 1902 and since then I and the rest of the family have become Milwaukee residents.  We like Milwaukee very much, it is a nice business place to live in, but I still have a warm spot for our dear old Watertown, surrounded with the well known Rock River, which we all enjoyed strolling along its beautiful green shady banks in years gone by.  Yes, Watertown is still, and always will be, kindly remembered by us all.  Yours respectfully, Mrs. J. Bruss nee Spangenberg.

 

Roach’s Garage

Watertown Gazette, 08 10 1911

 

When autoists go to Watertown they will find it a splendid place to run into Roach’s Garage.  Theo. Roach is in charge and he makes every driver feel welcome and he and his men render that little assistance that a driver so much appreciates when away from home.  Mr. Roach is meeting with splendid success at Watertown.  He is selling a large number of Ramblers and some Mitchells.  – Jefferson Banner

 

Arbogast Flying Machine

Watertown Gazette, 08 10 1911

 

Flying Machine:  The Arbogast Flying Machine is set up and ready for flight on the Koenig farm in the western portion of the city, and as soon as favorable weather sets in, Dan Arbogast, the bird man, will give an exhibition flight.  The machine was shipped here from Indianapolis and since Sunday it has attracted considerable attention.  E. W. Arbogast is manager of the company owning it.  – Watertown Gazette

  More on Arbogast Flying Machine 

Watertown Gazette, 08 10 1911

 

WILL FLY AT PORTAGE:  E. W. Arbogast and Dan Arbogast of Watertown were in Columbus this week and made arrangements for a flight of their aeroplane in this city on Sunday, August 13.  The flying machine is now at Watertown, having been shipped there from Indianapolis.  It was made at Louisville, Kentucky.  – Portage Register

 

“It is easy to invent a flying machine; more difficult to build one; to make it fly is everything.”

  More on Arbogast Flying Machine 

Watertown Gazette, 08 17 1911

 

Injured in Flying Machine:  Friday afternoon while E. Boggs of Memphis was attempting to fly the Arbogast machine on the Koenig farm in this city, when about 25 feet from the ground, the machine ducked sideways and fell to the ground.  Boggs was slightly injured and was taken to St. Mary’s Hospital for treatment.  The machine was badly damaged, but will be rebuilt here.