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    ebook  History of Watertown, Wisconsin

Miscellaneous set

 

 

Streamline Bar Sold

Watertown Daily Times, 07 17 1969

 

The Streamline Bar and building located at 121 West Main Street has been sold by a Mr. and Mrs. Lester J. Herro of Watertown to Mr. and Mrs. Roman Blankenheim of Portage.  The Blankenheims will reopen the business the early part of August.

 

The property has been in the Herro family since the building was built in the early 1940's by the late Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Herro, parents of Lester J. Herro.

 

The operators of the Streamline Bar for the past 14 years were Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Sobek, who retired June 30.

 

The Blankenheims have been experienced and successful operators in the restaurant and bar business for many years.  They previously ran the Whitewater Inn in Whitewater, the Country Inn at Columbus, the Gaslite in Fort Atkinson and most recently the Trails Lounge in Portage.

 

The Blankenheims plan extensive remodeling and redecorating and expect completion within 90 days.  However, the bar will be open during this time after they move to Watertown about Aug. 6.

 

 

612 Oakwood Lane

Bonnie and Brian Hertel

12 2021

 

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The Hertel’s built their home in 1993 as one of the first homes in their neighborhood.  The home has a cozy cabin feel.  They incorporated historic barn beams to enhance the rustic feel in the open concept living room as well as the master bedroom.

 

Whitewashed barnboard walls were added throughout the home to add to the rustic feel.  The fireplace was built out of Watertown brick from floor to ceiling and the mantel is a 140-year-old barn beam.

 

Brian recently added all antique hand-made light fixtures throughout the home including one made from Mullen’s antique milk jugs.

 

When decorating for the holidays, the rustic theme continues throughout the entire home including antiques, primitive snowmen, and Brian’s many handmade one-of-a-kind items.

 

All items are unique.

 

Another addition to the décor are the wildlife mounts from Brian’s hunting adventures. Bonnie decorates the home from top to bottom for the holidays and also incorporates many pine accents for that “north woods” feel.

 

Hemp's Surplus Opens New Store

 

 

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Description automatically generated with medium confidenceWatertown Daily Times, 08 16 1969

 

The former Hemp’s Surplus and Sports, a retail government surplus and sports store in Watertown, has moved to a new location and the name of the firm has changed.

 

The new store, Hemp’s Sport and Recreation, has moved to 216 South Third Street.  The new center is located in the old Pfister Pontiac-Cadillac building which is presently being remodeled.

 

Because of the considerable amount of extra space in the new store, Hemps will carry more merchandise in the sports and recreation departments.  The new merchandise on display includes boats, canoes, mini-bikes, archery equipment, guns, and sportswear. 

 

In the future, the store will also handle Honda motor bikes, snowmobiles, boat motrs, go-carts, and camper trailers.

 

A catalog department will also be available at the store.  The department will enable customers to purchase almost anything in the sports and recreation field.

 

The store has provided free customer space at the rear of the new store.

 

Coffee House Plans

Watertown Daily Times, 09 04 1967

 

Backers of a plan for the establishment of a coffee house in Watertown to provide a suitable gathering place for teenagers are still searching for a suitable site after plans for the original site in North Water Street had to be dropped because it was found it did not meet the required standards.  The teenagers and their supporters, including many church people, are open to suggestions and anyone having a location that can be converted into a coffee house is asked to telephone either Steve Schaefer at 261-3908 or Wayne Bocher at 261 6289.

 

One-Way / Two-Way Traffic Patterns

 

Watertown Daily Times, 09 0 1992

 

The Watertown Common Council Tuesday backed plans intended to address two long-time problems in downtown - confusing traffic patterns and loitering.  The council passed the first readings of five ordinances that city officials hope will give police greater ability to keep. order on Main Street during the evening hours.  Aldermen also adopted ordinances on their second readings that would restore two-way traffic on the 100 blocks of North and South First streets.

 

Another set of ordinances were passed that will require vehicles on Third and Fourth streets to stop for Market Street.  The traffic changes won't go into effect for about two to three weeks, according to City Engineer Joseph Radocay. City workers will need to install no-parking signs, traffic lights and mark lanes before the changes can take place.

 

 

St. Coletta celebrates anniversary

2014

 

JEFFERSON — This week, St. Coletta of Wisconsin celebrates 110 years of service to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in southeast Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

 

St. Coletta will also spend the week celebrating its caregivers for National Direct Support Professionals Week.

 

Founded in 1904 by the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi, these dedicated and passionate women forged the way for people with developmental disabilities all over the nation.

 

Approached by a young couple in 1904, requesting assistance for their daughter with disabilities, the women welcomed the child with open arms, in addition to four others, thus beginning the “Institute for Backward Youth” in Jefferson County.

 

St. Coletta has experienced multiple growth spurts since its inception. Just a short time later in 1915, the school’s participation numbers jumped from just a few to more than 70. In the 1920s, a school building was constructed and the children started to attend school. The curriculum focused on the values of cleanliness, respect, courtesy, obedience and cheerfulness.

 

By the 1940s, the word began to spread of a school in a rural town in Wisconsin that offered students with disabilities the opportunity to flourish in a structured and supported environment that was run by women of faith. The school’s admissions increased significantly, including the admission of Rosemary Kennedy, the sister of United States President John F. Kennedy. As enrollment continued to grow, so did the campus. New buildings were erected to include two barns, a hog and poultry building, a garden house with cellar and the Serra House, which provided hospitality for guests of the residents. Growth was upon the organization and the sisters continued to forge ahead.

 

Fast forward to the ’60s and life on campus was in overdrive. More than 500 children ages 4 and older were enrolled in what had come to be known as the “School of Exceptional Children.” At this point, the school’s reputation had gained presidential recognition. Sister Mary Theodore, the superintendent at that time, flew to Washington, D.C., to accept a pen from President Lyndon Johnson that he used to sign the HR6430 bill, extending the legislative movement for the benefit of people with developmental disabilities.

 

As campus life flourished, the sisters began to experience a new challenge. In 1967, working at St. Coletta were 98 sisters, a decrease from the maximum number of 104 in 1963. The aging sisters contributed to a significant increase in lay staff; 55 in 1967 compared to 13 in 1963. By the time 1971 rolled around, the first lay administrative person was hired to serve as the assistant administrator, marking a new era for St. Coletta. Along with the aging sisters, students were also growing older and it was around this time the shift to serving adults in the community began.

 

The ’70s were a time of innovation that provided individuals the opportunity of employment. St. Coletta created partnerships with a number of local businesses, including with the Fireside Theatre in Fort Atkinson, which still exists today. Currently, the Access Employment Program at St. Coletta works with many businesses to match the person served with a job that is appropriate to his or her skills and capabilities.

 

In the 1980s, under the supervision of Sister Elaine Weber and Sister Sheila Haskett, a movement towards building community-based homes escalated and students began to transition off the main campus. This shift not only enhanced quality of life but gave students the opportunity to live the most independent life possible.

 

At the same time, a day program was developed that could support the growing needs of aging individuals both with and without developmentally disabilities. Golden Options day program opened its doors in 1986 and the program continues today. Participants enjoy health and wellness, cognitive, social and community-based activities, all the while getting the necessary health-related services.

 

The 1990s marked the end of an era. Individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities became mainstreamed into public schools and the last class of the St. Coletta school program graduated in 1995. By the 2000s, with the majority of its services provided in community-based settings, the historic campus property in Jefferson was sold. In 2011, St. Coletta of Wisconsin renovated the building formerly known as Alverno, on the corner of highways 18 and Y, and transitioned employees and day programs to the new headquarters.

 

“We look back to our history with a great admiration for the religious and lay people who dedicated their lives to shaping St. Coletta of Wisconsin into an organization full of compassion, dignity and respect. Our 110-year commitment to people with developmental disabilities is a wonderful testament to the mission established by the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi and it continues through the commitment of family members, benefactors and especially the staff,” said Tony LoDuca, president and CEO of St. Coletta. “The week of Sept. 7-13 has been declared National Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) Week, and as the sisters did for so many years before us, direct support professionals work tirelessly to provide support and opportunities for people with disabilities to live their best life possible. We thank everyone who has been a part of our 110year history and look forward to continuing our mission long into the future.”

 

Baptism in Frigid Rock River

Watertown Gazette, 01 30 1891

 

Last Friday morning five persons, male and female, were baptized in Rock river on the C. Hemey farm in the town of Ixonia.

 

After receiving their cold bath, they were duly recognized as members of the Lebanon Baptist church.

 

 

 

 

Stallions Received

Watertown Gazette, 03 20 1891

 

Nic Simon, of this city, has just received fine Percheron, Clydesdale and trotting stallions.  They can be seen at Chas. Ott's stable on 1st street, opposite Concordia opera house.  All horsemen that are familiar with this class of horses say they are the finest stallions that they ever saw.

 

Frank Bolles

Watertown Gazette, 03 20 1891

 

Frank Bolles formerly of Watertown, has been appointed telegraph operator in the war department at Washington at $900 a year.

 

Quarrel at the Kneubuehler

Watertown Republican, 03 18 1891

 

Joseph Breunig and Emil Heming engaged in a quarrel in the Kneubuehler saloon in the Sixth ward, Sunday night, when the latter threw a beer glass at the former, striking him on the head and fracturing his skull in a dangerous manner.  Heming was arrested and taken before Justice Beckman, Monday.  The examination was postponed to next Monday afternoon, Heming giving $500 bonds for his appearance.  Heming is a married man and Breunig ix a young man of 23.     WR

 

Shack on N. Second

City Wants Old Shack To Be Razed

Watertown Daily Times, 05 17 1939

 

Mrs. Martha A. Cole, owner of the shack located in North Second Street, directly across from the post office, is to be given 30 days to have the buildings razed.  The city council decided last night that the buildings {are] long an eyesore and a hazard must come down.  The required notice will be given her.  She resides in Milwaukee.  The buildings are reported to contain articles which she has long stored there.

 

Walks to Clyman

Watertown Daily Times, 08 15 1944

 

Times Square:  When it comes to covering a lot of ground it takes Richard (Jiggs) Kaul of 100 Western Avenue to do just that.  The other night he took his bride to a dance, then they hiked 8 miles to the home of Mr. & Mrs. George Hoeft in the Town of Clyman, getting there in time for breakfast.  Then they helped thresh, after which they went to Beaver Dam where they visited their niece, Mrs. Kenneth Fredrick at St. Joseph's Hospital.  After that they stopped at a tavern for a little refreshment and the next day they visited friends in Lebanon.  Then they returned home, to attend the double christening of Dewayne, son of Mr. & Mrs. George Schuenemann and Michael, son of Mr. & Mrs. Paul Schuenemann, followed by dancing and refreshments.  At 6 o'clock the next morning he was ready for work at the Bickett Rubber Company.  Now there, if you ask us, is a strenuous schedule.

 

Marijuana grown on College Ave

Shade for chickens, feed for canary

Watertown Daily Times, 09 14 1938

 

Police authorities announced today that a supply of genuine marijuana, a weed from which a drug is extracted, had been found here on a College Avenue property and that it had been destroyed. 

 

Part of the supply was brought to the police station. 

 

The man on whose property it was growing has been raising it for years since it provided excellent shade for his chicken yard the police said. 

 

In the winter he fed the dry seeds to his canary, many birds being fond of such seeds.

 

Robert Taylor in Watertown

Watertown Daily Times, 04 01 1939

 

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Bob Taylor, heart throb of films, pays city a visit.

 

Wearing a suit of soft toned gray and willing to talk about everything under the sun except his forthcoming marriage to Barbara Stanwyck, Robert Taylor, one of the screen's leading glamour boys, paid Watertown a visit today.  Bob's private car was shunted to a siding here for several hours this forenoon while he waited for a train to take him to Minneapolis.  Few people knew he was in the city.

 

Zabler ice cream parlor

Watertown Gazette, 02 19 1912

 

Locate at Watertown.  Joe and Ben Zabler, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Zabler, of Spring Prairie, have leased part of the new Masonic block at Watertown, Wis., and will open an ice cream parlor in the same.  The young men have had experience in this line, having been employed and in Milwaukee.  They have secured one of the best locations in Watertown and Burlington friends wish them success. - Democrat, Burlington, Wis.

 

New Pure Oil Station

Watertown Daily Times, 08 19 1937

 

Watertown's newest super service station, the new Pure Oil Station at Main & 5th Streets, is nearing completion and will be ready for its grand opening shortly.  The building is beautifully designed and has about everything a modern filling station can and should have.

 

Demolished in 1967.

 

Kiepert's Dairy Bar

Watertown Daily Times, 12 17 1940

 

Kiepert's Dairy Bar, which opened recently in the building which for so many years housed the Baumann Candy Kitchen, at West Main & North Water Streets, is already enjoying the patronage of many people here.  The place offers a welcome appearance and is dispensing sodas and malted milks, as well as hot sandwiches, baked ham, chili, pie and other delicacies which will be on the menu and served daily.  The place has been completely redecorated and there is fountain service.  Booths have also been installed.  There is a large space for dancing. . .

 

Paradise Inn

Watertown Daily Times, 04 26 1940

 

In April of 1940 there was the Paradise Inn at 612 East Main Street where you could get a plate lunch for 25 cents and a pork, beef or chicken sandwich for 10 cents.  Whiskey was 15 cents.

 

In Millinery Business

 

Watertown Gazette, 09 25 1913

 

Mrs. Margaret May who recently purchased the millinery store of Miss Dora Geschke, and who was detained at Waukesha, has returned to Watertown and is now in active charge of the millinery store in Main Street, where she will be pleased to meet the ladies of Watertown and vicinity.  She has a choice line of millinery goods in stock, all the very latest and newest styles.

 

Artie Gardner

Watertown Gazette, 04 08 1891

 

Artie, second eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Gardner, accidentally shot himself Friday afternoon, while carelessly handling a revolver.  Ball entered at knee, and notwithstanding probing that was done, it has not been found.  The wound is a painful one, but it is hoped that it may not prove serious.

 

Found in Cemetery

Watertown Gazette, 04 24 1891

 

The three-year-old children of Clem Stoll and P. Kelly, who strayed from the home of Mr. Stoll last Monday afternoon, were found in the evening at Oak Hill cemetery.

 

Turkey-Buzzard

Watertown Republican, 04 29 1891

 

A bird unknown to these parts was captured in February on the Haas farm, in the town of Ixonia.  When found it was covered with ice and snow, and although almost frozen stiff, it soon came out all right.  The bird came into the possession of Alfred Meyer, and can be seen in the window of Lee's barber shop.  Studer's "Birds of North America" gives this bird as the red-headed vulture or turkey-buzzard, and although having an extended distribution and met with in most all parts of North America, has been rarely, if ever, seen in Wisconsin.  The turkey-buzzard, when pressed for food attacks live animals, young pigs and rams becoming its prey.  In warm climates they are encouraged, being used as scavengers and regarded as public benefactors.

 

 

Bullheads and Snapping-Turtles

Watertown Gazette, 05 01 1891

 

Thomas Enright and Mike Enright of this city went on a fishing excursion to Hubbleton last Sunday.  They returned home with a string of about 40 fish.  Thomas says that Hubbleton is the greatest place on earth for bullheads and snapping-turtles.  Mike said that if it hadn't been so windy they might have caught a whale.

 

Night Time Joy Couples

Watertown Daily Times, 09 03 1925

 

Notice:  I wish to give notice to the night time joy couples who are making use of my premises in 202 Fremont Street that this is not a public place for amusement.  If I cannot have my freedom under protection of the police I will be compelled to turn my dogs loose and trespassers must take the consequences.

 

Eugene Wintz

 

The Service Beauty Shoppe

 

Watertown Daily Times, 09 03 1925

 

Evelyn Matteson opens up new beauty shop known as The Service Beauty Shoppe in rooms 209 & 210 in the offices of the Woolworth Building on Main Street.

 

J. C. Penney Company

will occupy largest portion of Cole block

 

Watertown Daily Times, 07 05 1928

 

J. C. Penney Company will occupy largest portion of Cole block.  The new Penney Company store will consist of present quarters of the Olympia Candy Store and Bittner and Tetzlaff's Drug Store.  The main floor and the second floor are to be used for the business.  A balcony is also to be constructed.  The third store in the block [205] which now houses a fruit market will be taken over by the Olympia.  The quarters of the Pythian Lodge located on the top floor of the block will continue to be the lodge quarters.  Bittner and Tetzlaff's Drug Store will be moved to the building at Main and N. 2nd Streets which is now occupied by the National Tea Co.  The National Tea has purchased the building located at 2nd and Main streets which is now occupied by the Penney store.

 

Miss Gehrke Manager of the Kraft Store here

The Watertown News, 07 25 1917

 

Miss Emily Gehrke has been appointed manager of the George Kraft 5 and 10 cent store here [113 E. Main] after being in charge the past three months.  Miss Gehrke has been in the employ of this store ever since it started here five years ago. 

 

Her promotion comes in the way of a reward for her conscientious efforts during the time she was working as a clerk.  Her industry and willingness to do any assigned task has finally brought her a fitting reward. 

 

“This is the first time in the history of this concern, which controls thirty-one stores in all the large cities, that a woman has been appointed manager,” said A. L. Baird, head of the concern, in an interview.

 

“This is in the way of an experiment to see if a woman can fill a man’s place,” he continued.  “So far she is conducting it successfully and if she continues to do the amount of business done in the past she will have no trouble to retain her position.” said Mr. Baird. 

 

“I find the counters and stock room in the best shape of any of our stores throughout the country.  It has been very hard the past months for anyone to buy intelligently for prices on articles formerly sold for five cents now cost fifteen, and some goods cannot be obtained at all.  To show a fair profit on an article and still have quality, one’s judgment is put to a severe test.  Miss Gehrke has not only met this test but has shown that with conditions adverse to showing a profit balance on the ledger equaling former years she has nearly doubled the profit of past years,” Mr. Baird concluded.

 

Need to rehearse for wedding?

Watertown Republican, 12 26 1894

 

One of the oddest customs in modern society is that of the conducting of a rehearsal of the wedding ceremony in church.

 

It gives a curiously theatrical air to the event, and surely does something to lessen the solemnity of what should be the most sacred moment in two lives.  This preliminary practice common, no doubt, causes the actual ceremony to proceed with a "smartness" suggested of machinery but there is a loss in sentiment and in religious feeling.

 

A little more simplicity in the arrangements would obviate the necessity of rehearsals.  What with "maids of honor" and "flower girls," to say nothing of bridesmaids and all the other adjuncts some modern weddings are more like stage functions than anything else.

 

Dr. Nathaniel Chin

Dad’s diagnosis moved son

Wisconsin State Journal, Jul 23, 2022

 

KNOW YOUR MADISONIAN:  Dr. Nathaniel Chin, who grew up in Watertown and got undergraduate and medical degrees from UW-Madison, planned to specialize in infectious diseases.  But during his internal medicine residency at the University of California-San Diego, his father — a family medicine doctor in Watertown — was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

 

That led Chin to switch to geriatrics and return in 2015 to Wisconsin, where he is medical director of UW’s Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.  He is also medical director of the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention, a longterm study of nearly 1,600 people, most with a family history of the disease.

 

In 2017, the year before his father died, Chin started Dementia Matters, a biweekly podcast, in which he talks to guests about research findings, caregiving challenges and lifestyle tips.

 

Chin, 38, lives in Madison with wife Erin Chin, a program manager at the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.  The couple grew up together in Watertown. . . . .

 

Featured article by David Wahlberg, Wisconsin State Journal, Jul 23, 2022

 

Lincolnette Sunshine Girls

Watertown Daily Times, 11 19 1939

 

At the meeting of the Lincolnette Sunshine Girls Council, No. 13, held this week in Castle Hall the following officers were installed for the ensuing six months:

 

Royal princess, Barbara Arzberger; Charity, Neva Schmeichel; Friendship, Dolores Schmeichel; Royal Prelate, Elaine Loeffler; Royal Recorder, Esther Smith; Royal Exchequer, Lucille Peterson; Royal Guide, Jean Thies; Mystic One, Elaine Schoechart; Royal Warder, Myrl Zoeller; Royal Sentinel, Florence Jungmann; Pianist, Eleanor Schoechert; Press Correspondent, Dorothy Busshardt. The trustees for the organization included Eloise Rose, Neva Schmeichel and Marion Koerner. Mrs. Nellie Deist of the Pythian Sisters was re-elected as royal adviser. The group's councilors will be Mrs. Elsie Koerner, Mrs. Doris Arzberger and Mrs. Eleanor Schoechert, Chester Knick and Gus Gloger.

 

Elaine’s will hold its Grand Opening

Watertown Daily Times, 09 15 1989

 

Elaine’s will hold its grand opening celebration beginning Friday at its new location, 104 E. Main St. [location now part of Keck’s], according to owners Elaine Beyer and Lyn Quinn.  The 10-day celebration will feature specials throughout the store as well as door prizes and refreshments.  The store recently reopened in a new building across the street from its former location at 115 E. Main St.  The business was temporarily located at 100 E. Madison St. during the summer months until the new facility was completed.  The store occupies the west 24x70 feet of a new addition to Keck’s Furniture Store which will celebrate its grand opening in the near future.

 

Karmelkorn Shop and Lunch Room

Watertown Daily Times, 01 11 1932

 

New Karmelkorn Shop and Lunch Room opened 110 South Third Street, formerly occupied by Kuenzi Cigar Co.

 

Genealogy Note <> Herman Schliebe

 

Derived from “The Grosnick Family History, A Wisconsin Immigrant Family” by Edward Seefelt, 1992, pp 161-164 [Grosenick]  [Seefeldt]

 

. . . When Herman was eleven years old he was shanghaied off the street in his hometown in Germany and put aboard a sailing vessel where he served as a Captain's boy.  He was not allowed to set foot on land for four years because they feared he would escape.  He was aboard ship for thirteen years. 

 

When he was eighteen he had to serve in the German Navy for a period of six years.  When his ship entered New York harbor in 1887, he was 24 years old and in his last year of compulsory service. 

 

Because it would be his last chance to do so, Herman had laid his plans to leave his ship and go to his brothers Karl and Wilhelm, who were living in America.

 

One night after dark, Herman jumped over the side of the ship and swam to shore, about a half mile away, leaving everything.  He even had pay coming which he gave up.  The German navy reported him as a deserter when they discovered his absence and immigration agents picked him up off the street.  The German Navy tried to get him back but he was granted asylum.

 

This is his story of leaving New York and arriving in Chicago TO CATCH A TRAIN FOR WATERTOWN, WISCONSIN, where he visited his brother, an uncle and cousins. 

 

It is told in his own words with his Germanic expressions and accent. . . .

 

[Family history book is in our collection]

 

 

New Filling Station

Watertown Daily Times, 04 16 1931

 

New filling station to be erected at North Fourth and Green streets [716 N. Fourth] , on the Boetcher property

 

"Colossus" is coming to town

Watertown Daily Times, 04 25 1931

 

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"Colossus", the 68 ton, 55' long captive whale will be exhibited in Watertown for 3 days at the railroad siding at the Northwestern Railroad freight station.

 

Cross reference note:

 

Transcontinental Tour of the Captive Whale

 

Press at the time reported that the whale was “pickled."

 

"Apparently it took “3,200 gallons of embalming fluid to bring it to its present state of perfection . . . .  “the fat lady of the open seas” was a “monster 55-foot California Finback Whale, 68 tons of whalebone and blubber.”

 

https://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/this-week-in-history-1936-the-largest-sea-mammal-ever-captured-comes-to-pender-street

 

 

1429 East Main

 

J. E. Pagenkopf has opened a new model filling and service station lunch room at 1429 East Main Street, just below “hospital hill.”

 

Deeg's closes after 34 years

Deeg's Restaurant    1988 – 2022   /   1002 West Main Street

 

Watertown Daily Times, 09 16 2022

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Watertown Arts Festival

Watertown Daily Times, 07 26 1992

 

A record high of $36,000 in total sales was spent on artwork Sunday afternoon when hundreds of art lovers took advantage of warm, sunny and breezy weather to attend the Watertown Arts Festival held at Riverside Park.  Although buyers were in abundance, many people came to the outdoor event simply to enjoy the cultural experience, classical musical entertainment, food and refreshments.  Sales were substantially increased over last year when bad weather may have hampered attendance.  Total sales for the arts festival in 1991 were over $30,000 despite a rainy afternoon.  Ninety-one artists were on hand this year to show their work which included original paintings or prints, photographs, pottery, jewelry, copper etchings, fabric sculpture, stained glass, stoneware, metal sculpture, woodcuts and many other forms of art.

 

Schmutzler Cycle Sales

 

Watertown Daily Times, 12 05 1969

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Schmutzler Cycle Sales has moved into its new facility at 710 Lafayette Street.  The new structure, 40 feet by 84 feet, is located on one and two-tenths acres of land previously owned by Otto Biefeld Company.

 

Construction of the building began in April of 1969 by Otto Gruncel and Sons, Inc., of Oconomowoc.  The building was designed by Roger and Alice Schmutzler and plans were made by Reuben Schulz.

 

The building includes a large showroom and roomy service area for the repair of motor cycles and bicycles. 

 

Also included in the building is a parts room, office, restroom and boiler room.  Hyrdonic heating is utilized in the structure.

 

The service area includes two hydraulic hoists which can lift 1,500 pounds each for servicing cycles.

 

Harley Davidson motorcycles, and bicycles have been sold by the firm since it was begun by Ben Schmutzler in 1912. 

 

A complete line of Schwinn bicycles was added in 1925 and between 1930 and 1960 the firm also sold radio, paint, wallpaper and glass.

 

The business returned to the selling of motorcycles in 1943 when a son, Roger, joined the firm. Roger assumed control of the business in 1960.

 

Facebook posting and comments   

 

Ecological Chemical Products Co. (Ecochem)

Watertown Daily Times, 08 18 1992

 

A site on Watertown's west side is being considered for a new biodegradable plastics manufacturing plant that would employ as many as 100 workers.  Officials from Ecological Chemical Products Co. announced at a press conference today that Watertown was one of the Midwestern sites still in the running for the facility, which is expected to start operations in late 1995.  Plant manager Anthony V. Scancella declined to name the other sites under consideration, although he said the firm's initial list of 30 communities has been "narrowed considerably."  The firm, known as Ecochem, plans to manufacture a raw material known as polylactide at the new facility.  Ecochem officials say the product, made from cheese whey and corn, is biodegradable.

 

"Cotton Shop"  /  Budget Shop

Watertown Daily Times, 07 18 1940

 

The dress shop formerly called the "Cotton Shop" which was located at 105 E. Main Street has moved to its new quarters at 115 E. Main Street and will now be known as "The Budget Shop," occupying the quarters where Huber's Grocery Store has been situated.

 

Sabin Drug Store

Watertown Daily Times, 07 25 1940

 

The Sabin Drug Store, which for the past 14 years has been located in the Miller Building, N. Fourth and Main, will relocate to the Strauss Building at [201] S. Third and Market.

 

Tony Martin stops for Soda

Watertown Daily Times, 07 14 1940

 

Tony Martin, radio and screen star and former husband of Alice Faye, stopped off in Watertown for a soda yesterday, while enroute to Madison where he was to appear in a stage production today.  Two gals, who were gulping sodas and recognized Tony when he spoke, almost swallowed their straws.

 

Buffalo Inn aptly named

Watertown Daily Times, 03 11 1941

 

A. P. Weber of the Buffalo Inn recently brought two buffalo to Watertown.   They are now in a stable and runway not visible from the highway.  Mr. Weber plans, however, to fix up a nice spot for them in the near future so they may be seen by autoists who pass along that way.

 

River Road Hermit

 

Watertown Daily Times, 11 16 1932

 

August Wilke, local hermit genius, was buried in Ebenezer Moravian cemetery with simple rites.  August lived in a hut on the banks of the Rock river and was known as “the hermit of the River Road” and was a mathematical genius.  He could speak 11 languages fluently. . . . .

 

416 N Washington Street note

10 30 2022

 

My parents, Dr & Ethel Bergmann bought the home at 416 N Washington Street in 1945.

 

In my notes, I had written that 416 was a renovated Colonial Revival cream brick 1890's home.

 

The longer portion of the home on the North side was the original home.  It is now the living room with fire place, sun porch, two bedrooms upstairs and a basement.  The basement had rough walls and in my era, a laundry room, fruit cellar and a shower (I wonder if that was the original bathroom). The attic on the original portion had slanted crawl space near the from and back of the attic. 

 

I believe my parents renovated the upstairs bathroom and added the powder room off the kitchen.

 

There was a coal shoot off the drive way on the north side and the coal bin eventually became the fruit cellar when an oil furnace was installed.

 

I believe that the home was added on to in the 1890's and the basic shape remains to this time.

 

There was a maid’s quarters on the third floor.  It was a knotty pine play room where my brothers had an extensive train set in our era.

 

I believe that there was an interior enclosed stair well from the maids quarters to the kitchen.  My parents removed it and the two entry closets were installed in its place.  The front entry closet was next to the more open stairwell and the back garment closet is off the kitchen.  My parents revamped the kitchen in the 1950's.

 

I believe that Abby & Bill Potter added the window shutters.  There were none when we lived there.  They also added the swimming pool.  The long driveway on the south side of the home leads to the two-plus car garage.  Peonies bordered that driveway in my era.

 

The front porch was screened in summer.  The back porch was also screened but soon it was enclosed.

 

Jean Bergmann, Wiechmann  /  Elysian, MN

 

Schmitty's Bakery to move

 

Watertown Daily Times, 04 25 1929

 

August Schmidt, better known as "Schmitty the baker," will open a bake shop of his own at 210 N. 2nd Street on Saturday, 4/27/29, the place formerly occupied by the Leo Nuffz Bakery.  It will be known as "Schmitty's Bakery."  (removed for parking lot)

 

Watertown Daily Times, 05 27 1938

 

Schmitty's Bakery [August Schmidt] will soon move to its new location at 411 East Main Street where the Schubert Restaurant [William Schubert] has been located for many years [and later became location for Central Bake Shop and Freeberg’s Bakery].  The bakery is now located at 117 N. 3rd Street.

 

[later became location for Central Bake Shop and Freeberg’s Bakery.  84 years later [2022] finds newly-opened Chandler House Bakery at 411 E Main]. 

 

Oriental Cockroaches

Watertown Daily Times, 06 09 1938

 

City Launches Fight on Millions of Oriental Cockroaches which have been infesting the dumping grounds at the foot of Jones Street in the 11th Ward....

 

Television Will Be Demonstrated

Watertown Daily Times, 01 03 1948

A picture containing object, antenna

Description automatically generatedBecause of the greatly increased interest in television, the Nowatzke Radio Service [Bernard Nowatzke] at 406 Main Street is now prepared to provide television service in the Watertown area and will soon have an announcement of interest to make through the advertising columns of the Daily Times it was announced. 

 

B. C. Nowatzke has installed a set in his home at 604 Dodge Street and anyone who is interested in a demonstration may see one there on Sunday evening during the one hour evening broadcast from Milwaukee. 

 

From 8 to 9 p.m. Sunday WTMJ-TV will include the following programs:  Choral concert, newsreel, selected film subjects and Sunday evening theatre film.

 

 

Cross Reference Note:

 

On December 3, 1947, WTMJ-TV became the first commercial television station to broadcast in Wisconsin. It aired a live TV dedication ceremony from its multipurpose “Radio City” studios on Capitol Drive.

 

The station had previously held public demonstrations at the Milwaukee Home Show and at local department stores in 1947, playing a key promotional role for commercial television in the area. In 1948, WTMJ-TV began airing network programming from NBC, CBS, and ABC in addition to its own original content.

 

Must Have Sleigh Bells

Watertown Daily Times, 01 07 1902

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Description automatically generatedNotice is hereby given the public that Section 5 of Ordinance 162 of the City of Watertown relating to the placing of sleigh bells on horses or sleds will be enforced, as there is danger when it is not complied with.

 

The section reads:

 

Section 5. No person shall drive any horse before a sleigh or sled or other vehicle upon runners, upon or through any streets, avenues or highways of the City of Watertown unless there shall be sufficient numbered bells attached to the horses or such horse or other sleigh or sled or other vehicle to warn persons of the approach of such horse and vehicle, under a penalty of ten dollars for each offense, to be paid by the driver, owner or person having charge.

 

H. C. Block Chief of Police.

 

Lakeland Music Stores

Watertown Daily Times, 08 30 1964

 

Lakeland Music Stores of Oconomowoc today announced the sale of its Watertown branch store at 415 Main Street to Harry Erickson, effective next Monday.  The Watertown branch will be closed Monday and will reopen in a new location which will be announced later at the Erickson Music School, a division of Warren-Schey House of Music, which is located on the second floor of Warren’s Jewelry.  A detailed announcement will be made later.

 

Glenn’s Market Addition

Watertown Daily Times, 09 05 2008

 

An approximately 8,400-squarefoot addition to Glenn’s Market and Catering on West Main Street was approved Monday by the Watertown Site Plan Review Committee.  According to Glenn Roberts, owner of Glenn’s Market and Catering, the new addition on the east side of the current building will house a Mexican meat department.  “As far as the inside goes, it’s just going to be more of the same thing we are doing right now, except for on the right side we are going to put in a Mexican meat market,” Roberts said.  Roberts also said the new department will have its own entrance, but customers will be able to access the whole building from the inside.  He added both sections will use the same cash register system.

 

Tire Store Will Build in City

Watertown Daily Times, 05 18 1971

 

A Goodyear tire and service store is to be constructed in Watertown in the near future, according to Harry Wendel of the Goodyear district office in Milwaukee.

 

The store will be located at the corner of North Fifth and Main streets.  The site includes three properties.  They are the former Christ United Methodist Church, former Kehr Brothers Heating, and the former Hilary Reichardt home on 109 North Fifth Street.

 

Construction is to begin soon and be completed within 90 to 120 days after work begins.

 

The land will include parking for approximately 25 vehicles and will offer a complete mechanical shop including brake work, wheel alignment, tire work, sale of tires and many other areas. A  truck bay and farm tire bay are included in the plan.

 

An appliance and television store will be included in the business.  The facility will employ about six persons

 

Wild Cherry Syrup

The Cultivator & Country Gentleman, 1886.

 

Seeing the fruit of the wild or black cherry so plentiful one naturally covets a place for it in the domestic economy and some readers may be glad to know that it forms the basis of a very pleasant and refreshing drink.  To every quart of the fruit which should be gathered before it is thoroughly ripe allow a cupful of water and boil for twenty minutes stirring frequently in order to break the berries.  A few peach leaves serve to heighten the flavor and if a somewhat acidic drink is preferred the addition of a little rhubarb will be considered an improvement.

 

Strain off the juice (without pressing) through a sieve or thin bag and return it to the fire with half a cupful of sugar to every pint.  Boil for five minutes, skim thoroughly, and put in bottles while hot.  If sealed tightly it ought to keep well.  The syrup is also useful in making pudding-sauces and fruit-ices and its piquant color makes it as attractive to the eye as to the palate.

 

In addition to its merely agreeable qualities the wild cherry enjoys a reputation for very considerable medicinal virtue.

 

River Walk Project

Watertown Daily Times, 06 30 2007

 

The Watertown Plan Commission put its support behind the master plan and the arts and interpretation plan for the river walk project along the Rock River from Cady Street to Milwaukee Street.  The two plans submitted by Vandewalle and Associates of Madison must also get approval from the Water-town Common Council.  According to city Planner Mike Slavney, approving the plans does not require the city to spend any money or complete any of the projects.  "But if you want to go forward as a city and do the projects, having this done enables the city to qualify for some grants and it enables the city to budget for these items," Slavney added.

 

Pohlmann Estate

Watertown Daily Times, 08 18 1967

The city of Watertown is expected to receive in the neighborhood of $50,000 from the estate of the late Arthur Pohlmann, a native of Watertown who died in Milwaukee where he had resided for many years, according to information received by the Daily Times news department.  The estate will probably be settled in December, according to present indications.  An inventory of the estate has established it at some $61,000.  Under terms of Mr. Pohlmann's will there are several bequests and after these have been made the residue of the estate is to go to the city of Watertown.  The money is to be used to aid poor people in Watertown.

 

Beer Depot Sold to Milwaukeeans.

Watertown Daily Times, 03 04 1948

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The former Horck's Beer Depot at 838 W. Main Street has been sold to Mr. & Mrs. Harley Kunze of Milwaukee who are now operating it.  It was announced by the new owners that they are adding new merchandise and are also installing a large walk-in cooler for the convenience of customers.  (Became Rex's Beer Depot in early 1950s)

 

Business Improvement Programs

Watertown Daily Times, 08 19 1967

 

With Watertown's Main Street reconstruction project entering its final stages, three downtown business concerns have begun to carry out their improvement programs. They are installing new store fronts. The biggest project of the three is at the D. & F. Kusel Co., store building in West Main Street where work was begun yesterday. Warren's Jewelry Co., at 111 Main Street, is also installing a new front and the third change is at the Mallach Pharmacy, 315 Main Street.

 

 

216 North Fourth Street

Watertown Daily Times, 07 20 1967

 

Robert A. Lessner, 1024 Boughton. Street, agent for State Farm Mutual Insurance Co., has purchased the property at 216 North Fourth Street, now occupied by the Harvey E. Petzold Hobby Shop.

 

Mr. Lessner, who has lived in Watertown most of his life and who has been in the insurance business the last eight years, said he will take possession of the property Sept. 1.  He plans extensive remodeling of the building for offices which he will occupy and from which he will operate his insurance business.

 

Mr. Petzold who has operated his shop for the past 12 years at the North Fourth Street location is planning to retire temporarily because of poor health.

 

Remembrances:

If I remember correctly, Harvey Petzold had a slot car race track in the store.  Am I right?

 

Larry Eckert My brother and I spent a lot of time racing slot cars there.

 

The Petzold"s were very friendly and very patient with us kids.  They lived right next door.  Grandma Petzold lived upstairs and they lived downstairs.  Bought my first train from them

 

Firewood

Watertown Daily Times, 02 19 1930

 

A farmer's bobsleigh loaded with cordwood was seen in town the other day, quite a curiosity these days.  Time was when Market Street for two blocks was congested in the winter with sleighs loaded with cordwood and sleighs loaded with hay.  That time is gone forever; so are the men who presided over the measuring and weighing of the loads.

 

Helen's Hat Box

102 East Main Street

Mrs. Helen Smith

Watertown Daily Times, 02 20 1930

 

Helen's Hat Box to be opened to the public Saturday in quarters formerly occupied by Woodard's Millinery and before that by Mrs. Clara Weis.

 

121 N. Water Street

Watertown Daily Times, 03 13 1930

 

A new store building which will include a basement 70' long and 22' wide will be erected shortly at 121 N. Water Street by the owner, William Spear. The building will contain a living flat and plenty of storage space in the basement, a much needed innovation in that section of the city.

 

New Offices Above Bittner & Tetzlaff Drug Stores

Watertown Daily Times, 06 30 1930

 

Dr. E. H. Cook, who for over 20 years had his office in the Hoffman- Kelly Co. building, occupies a suite of rooms in the front of the building.  A. J. Tanck, has the next suite and the rooms farther back are occupied by District Attorney Harold W. Hartwig who was formerly in the Woolworth building, Dr. J. J. O'Connell, who for 18 years had his office above the Hinzmann Barber Shop, N. 2nd Street, and First Church of Christ, Scientists.  In the rooms that Dr. O'Connell now occupies hundreds of old circus and theatrical programs dating from 25 to 30 years back were posted over the walls.

 

 

First Model Home

Watertown Daily Times, 07 31 1930

 

Watertown's First Model Home is being completed and furnished this week.  It is being constructed by Edward Heger (carpenter/contractor) and is located at 108 N. Maple Street.  It is copied after the English architecture.

 

Fulleman's Cash Grocery

Watertown Daily Times, 07 22 1930

 

Mr. & Mrs. B. F. Fulleman (Benedict & Mae) will open a new grocery store in a new neighborhood at 1104 Jones Street and will be known as Fulleman's Cash Grocery.  The store is housed in a new building with residence quarters in the rear.      Street view of this location

 

1933 Packard

Watertown Daily Times, 08 05 1992

 

Quite a few heads turn when Dr. William Buchholtz drives by in his "new" 1933 Packard.  The Watertown dentist enjoys traveling around town in the antique car now that he has finally got it put together.  It took him awhile to assemble it after buying it in pieces, sight unseen, with no manual or examples for reference.  "It's one of only nine Model 1003 1933 Packards left in the country and none of the others are in a museum," running condition or even in a museum," said the proud owner, who had never before restored car.  Although the vehicle is not just a "show" car, it will be entered in competition judging at the Watertown Auto Show to be held Sunday, Aug. 9, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Riverside Park in conjunction with Riverfest.  The car, a two-tone blue van with a leather top, made its debut showing in Watertown's Fourth of July parade, but it is often seen around town when Buchholtz is driving to work or running errands.  "I have no interest in just having it for parades and shows.  It's a driving car and I like taking it around town," he said.

 

Luis Mattioli

Watertown Daily Times, 06 17 1967

 

As a small boy in Argentina, Luis Mattioli dreamed of some day going to the United States.  As the years went by he became more and more fascinated with the United States and his admiration and interest grew and grew.  Last year he realized his dream. when he was selected as a Foreign Exchange student and was assigned to Watertown.  Even before he came here his classmates and friends in Argentina, knowing about his dream and his admiration for the United States, called him "Yankee" and it became his nickname.  He is proud of that.  Now, after having been in Watertown since last August the time is approaching when he must return to his homeland.  He will be happy to see his home again, his family and his friends, he said today, but he will also be sad at leaving Watertown.

 

Municipal Comfort Station

Watertown Daily Times, 09 12 1927

 

Comfort Station for Watertown Now Underway.  Work has started on the creation of a municipal comfort station to be located on First Street on the Edward A. Schultz automobile parking space.  The building is to be 14 x 20 and is located directly in the back of the filling station operated by Mr. Schultz.  The structure will be of tile and stucco and will be modern in design and equipment.  There will be a compartment for men and another for women.

 

NE corner of South First and Jefferson streets (assumed).  At this time Edward A. Schultz ran a garage at 104-106 Jefferson Street.

 

401 South Fifth Street

Watertown Daily Times, 09 02 1927

 

One of the old landmarks on the east side is being torn down to make room for a modern home to be built on its site.  The new home of Dutch colonial style will be erected by the owner, Donald Macinnes.  The old building was erected many years ago at the [SE] corner of 5th and Dodge Streets and was owned and occupied for over half a century by the late James Killian, a pioneer blacksmith of Watertown, and his family.  The residence was built about 65 years ago.

 

Cross reference notes

Donald Macinnes (wife Bessie) was manager of Liggett & Myers Tobacco Co. in Watertown

Street view of this location 

 

216 South Second Street

Fine Residence Being Erected on Second Street

Watertown Daily Times, 08 10 1922

 

There is now under construction at the corner of Jefferson and S. Second Streets, one of the most substantial and beautiful residences in Watertown.  The owner, Frank Wilke, one of the leading farmers of this vicinity, residing 3 miles from Watertown on the Milford Road, purchased the premises sometime ago and razed the old solid brick residence which stood there for over 50 years.  The new structure is 32 x 34' and contains 7 rooms.  The exterior will be veneered with red Indiana brick and white mortar points.

 

Street view of this location 

 

901 South Tenth Street

 

Watertown Daily Times, 04 25 1922

 

John Jansky of the Watertown Press has just completed arrangements for the construction of a beautiful house at the corner of 10th and Carr streets.

 

Street view of this location 

 

215 North Fourth Street Razed

Old Landmark Razed - Timbers Well Preserved

Watertown Daily Times, 04 25 1922

 

With the razing of the old frame building at 215 N. 4th Street an old landmark is removed.  The floor beams were small trees, level on the upper side to receive the floor and the rest of the log still retained the bark in place just as it came down from the woods.  The place for many years was occupied by Herman Yahr as his home and bakery.  It has been standing probably 70 years.

 

1889 City Directory

 

Street view of this location 

 

DEATH SUMMONS MR. ERNST YAHR

The Watertown News, 08 Jun 1906

Pioneer Resident Passed Away Yesterday Morning—Former Citizen Dies. Ernst Yahr, aged 77 years, passed away at his late residence, 809 Eighth street, yesterday morning after an illness throughout the winter and spring with rheumatism.  Deceased was born in Prussia, Germany, November 12, 1830, and has been a resident of Watertown for the past twenty years.  He formerly conductedbakery on North Fourth Street.  A widow and three sons survive. The sons are Ernst, Emil and Herman, all residing outside the city.  The funeral will be held Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 at the home and the Evangelical Protestant church at 2 o’clock.  Interment will be in Oak Hill cemetery.

 

Molzahn Drug Store

Watertown Republican, 04 11 1894

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During the past week John Molzahn has placed in his drug store [109 West Main, removed] a capacious fountain of handsome design and finish for the dispensing of soda water, manufactured by the Hartt company, of Chicago.  It is made of Tennessee marble, with trimmings of onyx, and is surmounted by a large, attractive mirror.  It is indeed a thing of beauty, and John is anxiously awaiting the time when the ever-thirsty "summer girl" (as well as others) will seek his fountain as a haven of interest and a cause for the expenditure of spare nickels and dimes.

 

Ernest Compondu

04 04 1894

 

On Monday evening a shooting affray took place in G. Evans livery stable but happily was not attended with serious results.  A former employe of Mr. Evans, named Ernest Compondu, who had been discharged not long since, had threatened vengence and undertook to "get even, "as he called it, by firing a pistol at Mr. Evans, at the same time attempting to shoot Paul Beminski, who was present.  In the flurry of excitement and under cover of darkness, Compondu made his escape, and is probably now beyond the reach of the law.

 

Paul Kohlhoff

Watertown Daily Times, 04 24 1969

 

Paul Kohlhoff, 27, of 506 West Cady Street, is the manager of the new West Side Citgo Service Station, which will open on Monday, April 21.  Kohlhoff, a 1960 graduate of Watertown High School, has lived in Watertown all his life.  He has been an auto mechanic since 1959.  For the past five years he was employed by Stienmann Motors, Oconomowoc.  Before that he worked five years for Schlei Olds in Watertown.

 

P. J. Burke

Watertown Gazette, 04 20 1894

 

P.J. Burke has broken ground for the erection of a 26 x 54 brick store building and a brick barn 12 x 16 feet on the property recently purchased by him on Water street, south, just north of J.D. Casey's wagon works. This will be a great improvement on that street, and will no doubt prove a paying investment.

 

Joel Spaude

Watertown Daily Times, 09 08 1992

 

Being a missionary has many heavenly rewards, but the earthly opportunity to chomp on burgers isn't among them.  After greeting family and friends upon arrival in Watertown, Joel Spaude headed for McDonald's.  "I've always liked quarter pounders with cheese and it was a real treat," said the former Watertown resident who has been a Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod missionary in Zambia, Africa, for the past two years.  Spaude and his family are home on leave from Zambia in the southern part of Africa where he supervises 18 churches with the help of lay workers.  All of the churches are within a 100-mile radius of his home base but traveling can be hazardous on the mud roads, especially after a rain.  They enjoy living in Africa and have no regrets about accepting the opportunity to help others find God.

 

Women's Relief Corps  <>  First Anniversary

Watertown Republican, 04 20 1894

 

The Women's Relief Corps celebrated their first anniversary by holding a reception at Grand Armory Hall on Thursday evening of last week.  There was a large audience present, and the entertainment was thoroughly enjoyed by all.  It consisted of vocal solos by Messrs. Wm. Sproesser and Ed. Schempf, a vocal duet by Mrs. P. Valarius and Miss Angeline Boyne, piano solos by the Misses Kunert and Sproesser, recitation by Thos. Bergen and Miss Mary Daub, followed by refreshments and a social hop.  The whole affair was pleasing and instructive, and the ladies of the Relief Corps have inaugurated a yearly celebration that is well worthy of encouragement.

 

The Gem Restaurant

Watertown Republican, 12 23 1910

 

A New Restaurant < The Gem will be the name of a new restaurant which will be opened about January 1 at No. 11 Main Street. The proprietor will be George J. Gatterdam of this city and the necessary fixtures will be put in place soon. Mr. Gatterdam has purchased some of the Sterling furniture as that restaurant has been closed and a grocery store will be started in that building soon. There seems no good reason why with proper management a restaurant cannot be made to return a fair profit to the owner here with good management.

 

107 West Main Street

New Candy and Ice Cream Shop

Watertown Gazette, 06 04 1914

 

New Candy Store <> E. M. O’Byrne, who conducts an ice cream parlor and candy store in Main Street, has rented the Hawkins store [William N Hawkins, confectioner] at 107 West Main Street, formerly occupied by Mrs. W. C. Vick, and will use the same for the manufacture of candy and ice cream to supply his present store [uncertain location], as lack of room makes the move necessary.  He will also conduct a retail candy store in his new quarters and will occupy the living rooms on the second floor.

 

Hafemeister Building

To Open Next Saturday in N. 3rd Street

 

Watertown Daily Times, 11 10 1932

 

Main floor (111-115 N Third) will be occupied by Watertown Building & Loan and G. H. Hafemeister, realtor and owner of the building. 

 

The upper suites are occupied by the Platz Studio and Dr. L. H. Bruxer and Dr. A. W. Briethaupt.

 

 

Herman Tetzlaff

A group of horses in a row

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Tetzlaff Coal Shed

 

Wholesale and Retail Dealer in Lime and Portland Cement, Adamant, Sand and Gravel, Sewer Pipe, Flue Lining, Wall Coping, Fire Brick and Fire Clay; Coal and Wood;

 

No. 800 West Main Street, Near Northwestern Depot; Telephone 47-X

 

Has the only plant of this kind in that part of the city, located north of Watertown junction and directly opposite Northwestern Railroad depot on West Main Street, occupying one main building 22x50, with coal sheds separate.

 

His supplies in cement and other building material are received in car lots, handling the Lehigh brand of Portland cement from Mason City, Iowa, while lime, adamant, sand and gravel are all received from Janesville, Wis., fire brick, fire clay, flue lining, etc., from Chicago manufacturers, wall coping and sewer pipe are obtained from the W. H. Pipkorn Co., of Milwaukee, being prepared to supply anything in these lines for building construction.

 

Mr. H. Tetzlaff has supplied the building material for buildings of all kinds in city and country, the trade covering a radius of 10 or 12 miles in Dodge and Jefferson counties.

 

A large business is done in coal and wood, hard and soft coal in the best grades being received from the Reiss Coal Co., at Sheboygan, while hard and soft wood are brought from northern points.  Both coal and wood are delivered all over the city, using four teams and employing four men.

 

The business was established by Mr. W. H. Tetzlaff this line 30 years ago, being one of the oldest dealers and was previously engaged for many years as builder and contractor.  His business this season is larger than ever.

 

From “Watertown and Jefferson County Trade Review,” Dec 1916

 

1211 Western Avenue

Watertown Daily Times, 02 04 1941

 

Dr. D. R. Caine, Watertown dentist, has purchased the home at 1211 Western Avenue from Mrs. Clara A. Nowack.

 

The home was originally built by the late Max G. Kusel, one time president of Schempf Bros. Company.

 

It is one of the most beautiful residences in the city....

 

Genealogy note:  Max Kusel had married Amanda Schempf

 

Advent of Television Announced by RCA 

Watertown Daily Times, 04 20 1939

 

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(New York) The advent of television, long heralded as the beginning of a new American industry, was announced today by David Sarnoff, president of the Radio Corporation of America, in a television broadcast from the RCA exhibit building at the New York's World Fair grounds.

 

"Today we are on the eve of launching a new industry," Sarnoff said, "based on imagination, on scientific research and accomplishment.  We are now ready to fulfill the promise made to the public last October when the Radio Corporation of America announced that television program service and commercial television receivers would be made available to the public with the opening of the New York's World Fair."

 

The ceremonies at the fairgrounds were attended by a group of business and professional men who inspected the new commercial television receivers which go on sale this week.

 

Eight miles away in the RCA building at Rockefeller Center an audience watched and heard the ceremonies.

 

"It is with a feeling of humbleness that I came to this moment of announcing the birth in this country of a new art so important in the implications that it is bound to affect all society," Sarnoff said.  "It is an art which shines like a torch of hope in a troubled world.  It is a creative force which we must learn to utilize for the benefit of all mankind."

 

The television models on display ranged from an attachment which reproduces pictures only and which plugs into a radio set for sound, to a large console type combination television and sound radio receiver, employing a 12" kinescope tube.

 

The attachment model is the direct-viewing type showing pictures 3 3/8" deep by 4 3/8" wide and the larger model reproduces pictures 7 3/8" by 9 3/4" in size which are reflected from a mirror in the lid of the cabinet. Prices of the television attachment will be about $175.00.

 

Complete sight and sound receivers will be prices from about $300.00 to $600.00.

 

Lawrence Beaulieu

Watertown Gazette, 07 17 1891

 

Lawrence Beaulieu is daily serving hundreds of our people with freshly popped popcorn---hot from the popper---at the corner of 1st and Main streets, only 5 cents a bag.  Try his corn once and you will frequently patronize him.

 

Mannegold house

Jossi & Habhegger Cold Storage

Watertown Republican, 07 22 1891

 

The Mrs. H. Mannegold house and lot on North First Street, next to Evans' livery stable, has been sold to Jossi & Habhegger, for which $1,250 was paid.  A cold storage will be erected on the sight.

 

Watertown Republican, 08 19 1891

 

Digging the cellar for the cold storage building of Habhegger & Jossi, on First Street, a clam shell was found embedded in the lime stone six feet down in the rock.  How it got there is a question that would be puzzling to geologists.  

 

Showers of cotton to diminish

Watertown Daily Times, 07 21 1939

 

The large cottonwood tree that has stood in the back yard of the old Molzahn Tavern on Madison Street for more years than many people know, has been cut down.  Several days were required to remove the huge tree, one of the largest in the area. 

 

The tree was the source of much annoyance at certain times of the year when veritable showers of cotton were wafted over a large section of the city.  That will happen no more, for the old giant has come down.

 

It's too bad to destroy trees like this one, but it would have its disadvantages due to the showers of cotton-like substance all over the city each year.

 

Cross reference note:  At the time (1939) we have this location (NW corner of E Madison and N Third streets) as the tavern of Henry Kellerman.

 

John Ritzie

Watertown Gazette, 07 31 1891

 

On last Friday night John Ritzie, of the 6th ward, claimed that his home was entered by three tramps in search of his money, and that he was badly used by them.  He lives alone on the old May sawmill site, and he says he had some $600 in cash in the house which the tramps had evidently been in search of.  At about 12 o'clock Mr. R. was aroused from his slumber by the tramps entering his house.  On rising from bed he was taken hold of by the tramp and an effort made to tie and gag him.  He got hold of his revolver in the struggle and succeeded in driving his assailants from the premises.  In the encounter Ritzie received several severe cuts and bruises on the head.  The guilty parties have undoubtedly skipped from the city.

 

Many doubt the truth of Ritzie's story, and believe he received his injuries in some other way.

 

Harding’s Turkish Baths at Cady Street Bridge

The Watertown News, 08 11 1875

 

J. Harding’s Turkish Baths in the 4th Ward, on [near] the West end of Cady Street Bridge

 

These baths are now in the full tide of successful operation and are highly commended by the medical faculty.

 

Parties who frequent them testify to their beneficial effects, and they are everywhere acknowledged without a superiority.

 

TRY THEM!

 

Many cases of Chronic Rheumatism have been cured, and there is scarcely an ailment for which they are not a specific.

 

REFERENCES:  Dr. James Cody, Dr. W. C. Spalding, C. A. Sprague, J. H. Sleeper, Fred. Miller, D. W. Ballou, and many others, who have received great benefit from these beneficial bath treatments.

 

 

Baths at all hours, every day in the Week

 

Hours for Ladies—From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m

 

Hours for Gentlemen—From 9 a.m. to 7 p.m

 

Two sets of rooms are now in full operation

 

J. HARDING, Prop’r.

_______________

The Watertown News, 11 Aug 1875, Wed ·Page 5

 

Harding has taken the Kneisel building [?], on the bank of the river, near the new iron bridge [Cady Street, but known as Broad Street at the time], and will at once proceed to its renovation and refitting for a thorough bathing establishment, supplying it with Turkish, Electric and Plunge Bath Rooms.  The supply of water will come principally from the [nearby] FINE ARTESIAN FOUNTAIN belonging to the Soda Water manufactory of S. M. Eaton [301-311 N. Water] and will enter the building through a large iron pipe.

 

Lebanon's First White Child Dies Out West

Watertown Daily Times, 05 16 1924

 

Ferdinand F. Schley, a member of one of the old pioneer families of Wisconsin, died at his home at Groton, S.D., 5/5/24.  He succumbed after a brief illness of 2 days.

 

Ferdinand Schley was born at Lebanon, 11/14/1843.  Watertown at that time was a half dozen log huts.

 

The great emigration movement of the "Altlutheraner" from Germany to America had begun.  The Schley family came from the "Kinderman expedition" on a fleet of 9 ships.  Many of the "Altlutheraner" settled in the State of New York but the Schleys came to the territory of Wisconsin, and with 40 other families, founded Lebanon.

 

Shortly after their arrival, baby Ferdinand was born in a hastily erected Indian wigwam as the first white child born in that community.  During the period of a long life, he was located in different states of the union.

 

Watertown is ideally located for a Distribution Center

 

11 16 1970 <> Wisconsin School Service <>  820 West Street

Affiliate of The Eau Claire Book and Stationery Co.

 

The Eau Claire Book and Stationery Company has begun construction of its combination warehouse and office with display rooms.

 

The facility is being constructed on the West Road on a 22.5 acre plot of land which was purchased from the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce Promotive Corporation in July of 1969.  A building permit for $320,000 was obtained by the firm.

 

The land is bounded by the West Road on the south and by the Madison line of the Milwaukee Road on the north.  The 22.5-acre plot is part of the nearly 30-acre plot which the promotive corporation acquired from the Perfex Corporation of Milwaukee.

 

David Steven, president of the firm, in a letter to the promotive corporation last year, said the facility will be approximately 36,000 square feet of space.  He said 6,000 square feet of space will be for the office and show rooms, and the remaining 30,000 feet for warehouse.

 

Steven, at the time of the land purchase, said the directors of his firm felt Watertown is ideally located for a distribution center.  He pointed out that I-94 is only a few miles to the south and that highway 26 is only a short distance from the property.

 

Eau Claire Book and Stationery is an old established Wisconsin Firm. It originated at Eau Claire 85 years ago, in 1885.  It sells school furniture and supplies, and office supplies and furniture and has a subsidiary, Graphic Printing Company.

 

1402 W. Main Street, 1412 W. Main, 610 Welsh Road

12 02 2023

 

Aerial view of land

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NAI Greywolf, an office of NAI Global, a leading global commercial real estate brokerage firm, represented the buyer in the purchase of three parcels in Watertown, Wisconsin, totaling $1.4 million.

 

The sale included three parcels of land, bordering Highway 26.

 

The parcels included: 1402 W. Main Street, 1412 W. Main Street and 610 Welsh Road.

 

The parcels were 34.35 acres, 14.87 acres and 37.59 acres, respectively. The total of all three parcels were just under 87 acres of land.

 

The land is slated for a potential new development, but no specific details have been determined at this time.

 

Greywolf announcement 

 

Boa Constrictor Found

03 17 1927

A black and white snake

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While handling bananas in the Watertown Produce Co. store at 212 W. Main Street (became location for Mullens) a young boa constrictor was discovered among the fruit and was captured and put into a glass jar. The reptile is 3 feet long and was lively enough considering the long distance he traveled.  It is said that it seldom attains a length more than 11 feet.

 

Calf’s Foot Jelly

11 14 1874 <> Calves Foot Jelly (Petchah/Ptcha)

 

Take two calf’s feet and add to them one gallon of water, which reduce with boiling to one quart.  Strain it, and when cold skim the fat entirely off.  Add to this the whites of six eggs well beaten, a pint of wine, half a pound of loaf sugar, add the juice of four lemons and let them be well mixed.  Boil the whole a few minutes, stirring constantly, and then pass it through a flannel strainer.

 

This forms a very nutritious article of diet for the sick and convalescent.  The wine may be omitted or added at option.

 

What is calves foot jelly used for?

Petchah/Ptcha (Calf's Foot Jelly) Recipe - Food.com

 

It is served cold as an appetizer or as a cool snack

 

Judge W. D. Stacy

Watertown Gazette, 11 05 1914

 

Judge W. D. Stacy died at 3:20 o’clock this morning at his home on North Warren Street of bronchitis and heart failure, with which he had been confined to his home only a few days.  For the past year, however, his health had not been the very best and he had been failing gradually; still he continued to attend his duties as Justice of the Peace and insurance agent.  Judge Stacy was born on Feb. 10, 1839, at Lindsay, Ontario, Canada, hence was in his 75th year when he died.  He came to this section with his parents when 18 years of age and located on a farm southwest of this city.  In his early life he taught school and conducted a farm.  On Sept. 11, 1865, he was married at St. Bernard’s church, after which he and his wife resided on a farm southwest of Watertown; the family moved to this city 42 years ago, where the Judge engaged in the mercantile business in the building now occupied by the Huebner grocery in West Main Street.  After disposing of his business, he was elected in April, 1881, Justice of the Peace, an office which he ably filled ever since.  He was repeatedly elected supervisor of the Fourth ward and also represented the ward a number of times in the city council.  He was one of the best read men in the city, and was an able accountant and was frequently consulted by others in a business way to help untangle their business affairs.  Of a mild, good natured and congenial disposition, he in his quiet way made a friend of everybody he met; and but few people in Watertown did not know and esteem Judge Stacy.  His death is sincerely mourned here.  He was a member of Branch 85, Catholic Knights of Wisconsin, and carried $1000 insurance in the order.  A delegation of the society will attend his funeral Saturday morning, which takes place from St. Bernard’s church at 9 o’clock.  The interment will be in St. Bernard’s cemetery, beside the remains of his wife, son and daughter buried there.   He is survived by his daughter, Mrs. Julius Podolski, with whom he made his home; W. J. Stacy of this city, Edward Stacy of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; Frank Stacy of Dayton, Ohio, and Clem S. Stacy of Waterloo, all of whom were here before their father died.  The family in their sad bereavement have the since sympathy of all our people.

 

The Metcalf Case

Watertown Gazette, 11 23 1888

 

Geo. W. Bird and D. Hall have been in Washington, for the past week before the United States Supreme Court in an argument in the case of Metcalf against the city of Watertown.  Metcalf is an Ohio man and began his suit against the city several years ago to recover judgements from the city on bonds.  The case was tried in the United States court for the eastern district of the state and subsequently appealed to the United States supreme court.  The case was argued at Washington last Monday.   

 

Bertram & Sprague

Watertown Republican, 06 03 1891

 

Bertram & Sprague have just laid a splendid artificial stone sidewalk, of their manufacture, on the Fourth Street front of Wm. C. Raue's residence lot.  This class of walks is becoming very popular, being artistic and handsome in appearance and has the durability of a lifetime.

 

Watertown Freak

Watertown Gazette, 06 19 1891

 

A freak, in the shape of a man practicing extreme economy, lives at Watertown.  To save expenses he does not allow a light to burn in his house at night, and to reduce his clothing bill he will take off his pantaloons when he is resting in a chair in the evening.   - Milwaukee Journal

 

We heard of a man residing here who made a trip to Europe, taking a boiled ham with him for lunch to save expenses, and on his return home brought the bone of the ham back with him to use for soap grease, but never heard before of the individual who the Journal refers to.  Who is he?    Watertown Gazette

 

Tobacco-Squirting, Whisky-Soaked, and Blear-Eyed

Watertown Gazette, 08 21 1891

 

EDITOR WATERTOWN GAZETTE --- This city is infested with a vile crowd of tobacco-squirting, whisky-soaked, blear-eyed gang of ruffians, who continually hang around the streets, insulting to passers-by, and who peer and lear at respectable and virtuous mothers and daughters, that are compelled to run the disreputable gauntlet in passing along the street.  Is there no law by which this decay-onion and rot-gut smelling crew can be dispersed?  They are not only a continual menace to the respectable and orderly element, but a standing disgrace to the good name of the city.  When strangers, in passing through our otherwise beautiful city, set their eyes on this foul, vermin-eaten crew, they form a very poor opinion of the law and order, and decency and morality of this city.  Do our officers owe their election to this nasty scum on the body politic?  If not, why do they not drive this slimy excrescence from our the city.

 

A WEST-SIDER.

 

Charles Thorman

Watertown Gazette, 07 01 1891

 

Charles Thorman, living in the southern part of the town of Watertown, while driving a mower in his field Monday, cut off the right foot of his little 4-year-old daughter.  The unfortunate little girl was playing in the grass unnoticed by the father.  Dr. Werner attended the case and gives it as his opinion that the child will survive the injury.

 

Miss Anna Holland and Miss Mary Hanley

Watertown Gazette, 07 03 1891

 

Prof. Jackson's summer school opens at Rochester, Wis., next Monday.  Miss Anna Holland and Miss Mary Hanley, two of our public school teachers, will be among his students, and they will no doubt receive much benefit from attending.  All teachers who possibly can should attend a summer school for teachers, as much can be gained thereby and we are pleased to see that some of Watertown's teachers realize this.

 

Steam Threshers on Main Street

Watertown Republican, 08 26 1891

 

The steam thrasher going through Main Street Monday morning caused considerable excitement among the owners of teams hitched along the street at the time, and there was a general movement to give the machine a wide berth lest some accident occur with the horses.  It should be understood once for all that steam threshers have no business traversing Main Street.

 

Pin Cushion

Watertown Gazette, 08 21 1891

 

Having read an account of 90 needles being found in a seventeen-year-old pin cushion after it was ripped open, a First ward lady having one in her possession some years less in use, became curious to see what it contained, and accordingly ripped it open, finding 264 needles therein, making a much more interesting case than the one she read of.

 

Businesses Close on Sunday

Watertown Gazette, 08 21 1891

 

The merchants of Watertown closed their places of business for the first time on Sunday last as advertised, and all of them appeared to be well pleased with the new order of things. The Sunday closing of stores is a blessing to all concerned, and our city now begins to look as it should on the Sabath.

 

Fred Vergenz

Watertown Gazette, 08 28 1891

 

Last Saturday morning while Fred Vergenz, of the town of Watertown, was driving his team homeward-bound near the Third Street crossing of the C.M.&St.P.Ry., the tongue of the wagon dropped down, frightening the horses and causing them to run away. Vergenz was thrown violently out of the wagon against a telegraph pole, fatally injuring his spine, his death resulting therefrom the following morning. He was twenty years of age, and after being injured received the best of medical attention from Drs. Moulding and Whyte.  His mother, who was in the wagon with them at the time, escaped with slight injuries.    WG

 

Explosion, Fire from a Still

Watertown Daily Times, 07 29 1939

 

An explosion in the basement of the Anton Branz home, 304 Spaulding Street, this afternoon started a fire which sent all three fire trucks to the scene.  The basement was filled with smoke when the firemen arrived.  They reported they found a still in the basement which had blown up and set the place afire.  Damage was kept to a minimum.  The remains of the still were brought to the city hall.

 

 

 

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History of Watertown, Wisconsin

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