This file part of www.watertownhistory.org website

 

Miscellaneous set

 

Cliff Donahue

Watertown Daily Times, 07 30 1958

 

Thirty years as an automobile dealer in Watertown, and 41 years actively engaged in the automobile business, is the record compiled by Cliff Donahue, local Chrysler-Plymouth dealer.  Friday, Aug. 1, marks the 30th anniversary of the Donahue Motor Co. established in 1928 when Cliff Donahue took over the agency for Willys-Overland automobiles given up by Whitmore Garage when H. C. Whitmore retired from business.  Mr. Donahue's experiences go back to 1917 when he started working for Jack Wilkes, dealer for Mitchell and Saxon automobiles at that time.  Both makes have long since passed from the scene.  Following that he worked for J. H. Deakin, local Studebaker dealer, later joining Whitmore who at the time had the Buick franchise, which was dropped in 1920 in favor of Willys-Overland.

 

La Cocina Restaurant

Watertown Daily Times, 07 30 1983

 

La Cocina Restaurant owners Larry and Jeanne Hiscox said their new restaurant opening Friday is dedicated to serving fine Mexican and American food. The dine-in or carry out restaurant will feature car hops on rollers skates.  Hiscox noted the parking lot is fairly smooth and roller skates are faster than walking.  Although La Cocina doesn't sport a cactus out front, patrons can dine outside under the shade of a friendly maple.

 

Weaver & Richards

 

Watertown Democrat, 09 30 1858

 

DISSOLUTION—Notice is hereby given that the co-partnership heretofore existing between Henry Weaver and J. L. Richards is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  All persons indebted to the old firm will call at the former place of business and settled their accounts; also, all holding claims against the firm will please present them without delay.  The business will be continued by J. L. Richards at the old stand.

 

Henry Weaver

J. L. Richards

Watertown, September 8, 1858

  More on business continued by J. L. Richards 

Watertown Democrat, 04 14 1859

 

[advertisement] Keep it before the People.  That the undersigned is constantly manufacturing a superior article of SASH and DOORS at his old stand on First Street, corner of East Washington, opposite J. Lindon’s Watertown House.  Persons wishing to purchase the above named article would do well to call and examine his work and stock before buying elsewhere.  Blinds made and repaired.  Jobbing of all kinds done to order and without delay.  Prices to suit the times.  J. L. Richards.

 

Removal

Watertown Democrat, 09 30 1858

Watertown Central Wholesale and Retail

Grocery and Provision Store

A. Medbury, Jr.,

Having removed his stock of groceries to his new store

Two doors west of the Watertown bank

On Main Street, offers for sale the largest and cheapest

assortment of family groceries in the city of Watertown. 

Determined to keep at all times a good article and always selling at

A FAIR PRICE

he confidently asks attention to his stock consisting in part of the following articles:

Sugars all grades, Molasses, Coffee, Tea, Chocolate,

Cocoa, Broma, Pepper, Corn Starch, Macaroni, Tobacco . . .

 

Our stock is the most complete ever brought to this section of the state. 

To country merchants and others, we would say that we will

sell as cheap as can be purchased west of New York and brought into the country. 

We particularly invite an examination of our stock and prices f

rom those who have heretofore purchased in Milwaukee and Chicago.

 

With thanks to the citizens of Watertown and surrounding country

for the very liberal patronage bestowed upon us, we hope our

 

Choice goods, low prices and fairer treatment

 

Will induce them to continue their calls upon us, with many additions.

 

A Medberry, Jr.  [ name spelled two ways in same ad ]

Watertown, July 23, 1857

  More on Medbury 

Burned and Ground Coffee

Watertown Democrat, 03 10 1859

 

Burned and ground coffee from the Star Steam Mills of Milwaukee, carefully put up in cans or paper, may be obtained at the grocery store of A. Medbury, Jr.  It is a pure and unadulterated article, just what it claims to be, put up in the best style and so prepared as to retain its finest flavor and aroma.

 

Mrs. Louise Medberry

Watertown Democrat, 10 21 1858

 

Watertown was very creditably represented at the State Fair which was recently held at Madison.  Among the articles on exhibition in the ornamental department we saw no display of needle work that in perfection and beauty surpassed an embroided skirt presented by Mrs. Louise Medberry of this city.  Amidst a large collection, it was singled out as a rare and fine specimen of skill and taste.

 

Proposed Laws - Schools

Watertown Daily Times, 08 01 1998

 

Several proposed laws concerning student conduct in public schools were supported by the Watertown Common Council Tuesday. The ordinances, adopted on their first readings, regulate disorderly conduct in schools and truancy. The disorderly conduct proposal prohibits juveniles and students in public schools in the city from engaging in “any speech or conduct, including the use of obscene, profane, lewd, indecent, or offensive language or gestures, which materially and substantially interferes with the educational mission of the school.”

 

Plot of Land Deeded

Watertown Daily Times, 07 22 1958

 

The board of directors of the Bethesda Lutheran Home has instructed its executive committee and the management of the home to take the necessary steps to deed a plot of ground to the Watertown Historical Society.  This plot is to be sufficiently large to enable the society to erect a log cabin on the site.  Such a log cabin is to further mark the spot as an historical location where a stone marker thus far has been placed.  This marker locates the site of the first home established by the first settler in the Watertown area. The marker can be found just at the bend of the road on Hoffman Drive as this street nears the Rock River (Hoffman Drive has been named after a member of the board of directors of Bethesda Lutheran Home in its early days, the late Fred Hoffman who did a great deal to make the location of the home possible in Watertown.)  Hoffman Drive leads off of Johnson Street which joins Milford Street (county highway “A”) at the North Western Railroad track crossing.  The Timothy Johnson family was the first settlers in the Watertown area.  The marker is located on the grounds of Bethesda Lutheran Home.  The home is a school and home for mentally retarded, epileptic and otherwise handicapped persons.

 

Royce Rowedder

Watertown Daily Times, 07 22 1983

 

Royce Rowedder, chairman of the Watertown Memorial Hospital Association for the past 3 1/2 years, announced his resignation from the association's board of directors.  Rowedder, a member of the Hospital Association Board of Directors since Oct. 31, 1973, said a new business venture involving computer systems and programs in the health care field would demand more of his time in the future.

 

Frank M. James

Watertown Daily Times, 07 21 1958

 

What's it like to go back to school again after spending 16 years as a teacher?  One need only ask Frank M. James, of 1105 Western Avenue, Watertown, a science instructor at Watertown High School for the past 14 years.  He is one of 50 selected high school science teachers from 12 Midwestern states currently attending the 12th annual General Electric Science Fellowship program at Case Institute of Technology in Cleveland, Ohio, through Aug. 1.

Watertown Daily Times, 04 29 1961

 

Frank M. James, 1105 Western Avenue, a member of the Watertown High School faculty, has been awarded a National Science Foundation summer institute grant in chemistry and physics at Marquette University, Milwaukee, it was announced today. Mr. James will receive a full stipend for eight weeks, including dependency allowances and travel allowance.

 

Lindberg

Watertown Daily Times, 07 21 1998

 

The parent corporation for Lindberg, a unit of General Signal, 304 Hart St., has been acquired by SPX Corp. of Muskegon, Mich.  On Monday, SPX Corp. and General Signal announced that their boards of directors have approved a definitive agreement for SPX to acquire General Signal for cash and SPX shares currently valued at $45, or approximately $2 billion.  SPX also will assume approximately $335 million in General Signal net debt

  More on Lindberg 

Lindberg Recognition

Watertown Daily Times, 05 13 1984

 

A research team from Lindberg, a unit of General Signal, located at 304 Hart Street, has been selected to receive an award of international stature.  The Kanthal Prize, in recognition of their development of a new product called Moldatherm.  The two men, Ludwig Porzky, development laboratory supervisor, and Ewald R. Werych, retired director of research and development at Lindberg, are being recognized for their development of Moldatherm, an energy conserving high temperature ceramic fiber insulation/heating element module first developed at the Watertown plant back in 1972.  Since that time there have been numerous improvements and revisions in the original product. In addition to being manufactured in the Watertown plant, Moldatherm is now being made, under a license agreement, in Mexico, Japan and West Germany, and is sold on a worldwide basis.

  More on Lindberg 

Watertown Daily Times, 04 15 2001

 

Forty-three Lindberg/Blue M Electric employees were laid off indefinitely this month, a spokesman for the company’s corporate headquarters said today. Lindberg/Blue M’s leadership team ordered the layoffs so the business can be sized properly, said Tina Betlejewski, manager of corporate communications for SPX Corp., headquartered in Muskegon, Mich. “Economic conditions in the industry require us to make some changes so the business can be healthy and profitable both now and in the long term,” Betlejewski said.

 

Reuben F. Schulz, Jr.

Watertown Daily Times, 07 11 1958

 

Reuben F. Schulz, Jr., a graduate of Watertown High School and Marquette University, has begun his duties here as assistant engineer to City Engineer Floyd Usher.  The City Council recently made provisions for an assistant to do much of the engineering field work and also assist the engineer in his other work.  This will allow the city engineer to spend more uninterrupted time at his planning board and on his major city projects which are now underway or in the planning stage.  He also serves as city building inspector.  Mr. Schulz was formerly employed in the engineering departments of the Allen-Bradley Co. and Caterpillar Tractors and has also done local work and previously worked as a helper to the city engineer at various times.

 

Fire Hydrants

Watertown Daily Times, 07 11 1998

 

The city's fire hydrants, all 1,000 of them, will be getting a face-lift during the next two years.  Davies Water Equipment Co. of Milwaukee has received the contract for sandblasting and painting all of the city's fire hydrants.  Michael Olesen, water utility manager, estimated that the city's water department has 1,000 fire hydrants.  Half will be repainted this summer and the other half in 1999. [ chapter on Fire Department ]

 

Hubbleton

Watertown Gazette, 06 23 1908

 

Yesterday afternoon, as passenger train No. 218 on the C. M. & St. P. road, in charge of Conductor Charles White, was approaching the depot at Hubbleton from the west and when nearing the depot ran into a herd of cows killing five of the number.  The heads of two were cut off and two were wedged in under the locomotive and were removed after considerable delay and trouble and the locomotive was quite badly smeared with the blood of the animals. From what the representative of The Leader could learn, the cattle rushed upon the track in front of the oncoming train probably from fear and it was one of those accidents against which no provisions could be made and for which the train hands could not be held responsible.

 

Parking Lot

Watertown Daily Times, 07 18 1983

 

A plan to build a parking lot along South First Street from the Watertown Senior Center and to develop the remaining open land for recreational activities will come before the city council when it meets at 7 p.m.  The council sent the original plan to build a lot running along South First Street back to the Park, Recreation and Forestry Commission earlier this year.

 

Poles

Watertown Gazette, 06 14 1908

 

A meeting of the board of public works, together with representatives of the Milwaukee Heat, Light and Traction Company was held yesterday afternoon to arrive at some conclusion relative to the matter of stringing poles along Main Street for the supports of the trolley wires.

 

It seems that the franchise calls for iron posts on both sides of the street.  The company, however, is desirous of placing wooden poles on the south side of the street, placing a cross arm thereon and painting the same black at the base and white at the top.  It seems that there is a division of opinion among the members of the board, the majority, however, holding to the original provisions as set forth in the franchise, calling for iron poles on both sides of the street.

 

Bethesda Fair Discontinued

Watertown Daily Times, 11 15 2007

 

Volunteers with the Bethesda Country Fair, following an appreciation luncheon in their honor on Wednesday at Horicon, voted to discontinue the annual Country Fair at the Dodge County Fairgrounds.

 

With an aging volunteer group and a growing Bethesda Country Fair, volunteers have been expressing concern about their ability to continue to haul goods and equipment to the fairgrounds and put in the long hours that it takes to run the annual sale.

 

Bethesda Country Fair began more than 55 years ago as a fund-raiser for the Lutheran Deaconess Hospital in Beaver Dam. Since 1973, funds were directed to Bethesda Lutheran Home in Watertown.

 

The event was held for many years at Horicon's Discher Park before moving to the fairgrounds in 1986 to accommodate the growing number of volunteers, donations and customers.

 

While the volunteers remained committed to help with the event, work space and storage of goods throughout the year was becoming a problem.

 

Volunteers were collecting goods all year and storing them in two barns in the area until the annual fair. Then in 1987, Bethesda purchased land in Horicon and in 1989 the Country Store was dedicated. A second building known as “Warehouse Number 2” was built for larger items and storage of goods for the annual fair.

 

Now as business increases, the store and warehouse are open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon.

 

In their discussion about the future of the fair, volunteers expressed concern about the physical work that is involved in hauling tables and goods to the fairgrounds and setting up for the annual event. Several heads of departments indicated they plan to continue their service as volunteers at the store but can no longer handle the hard physical work involved with the Country Fair at Beaver Dam.

 

Those who favored keeping the fair going said they would like to see it continue because it has been a major social event as well as a shopping event for so many years. They also said many people scheduled vacations to be able to attend as shoppers or volunteers.

 

This year's fair netted $123,000, down some from previous years when donations to Bethesda reached well above $153,000 just from the fair. In addition, the store sales generally results in additional funds of about $125,000 for the clients served by Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services.

 

John Nickels, vice president and chief development officer at Bethesda said, “From Bethesda's perspective we would like to see the fair continue, but some of the department heads have said they can't do the fair any more.”

 

Jim Clary, director of services at Bethesda and chairman of the Country Fair, said the hope is to increase the store hours at Horicon, and hopefully find enough volunteers to keep the store open five days a week and Saturday mornings. He also would like to see some additional events at the store to bring in more customers so that the donated goods could be sold right at the Horicon site and not transported.

 

In all, there are 22 stores operated by Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services. They are located in seven states and Bethesda's goal is to open a new store each year. The latest store to open is in Rochester, Minn., and plans are to open one in Fond du Lac in the near future.

 

There are 3,200 store volunteers nationwide and in all the stores have raised $1.1 million in funds for those served by Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services. In recent years the Horicon group of volunteers have contributed nearly a quarter of a million dollars a year.

 

The Country Store, under the management of volunteer Marlene Dahnert, is seeking volunteers to enable the store to be open six days a week. The group is still seeking donations of goods as in the past.

 

Strawberry Festival

Watertown Democrat, 06 13 1872

 

The First Strawberry Festival of the season will be given by the Good Templars, at their hall, in Cole’s block on Friday evening the 14th inst.  Very extensive arrangements having been made for a pleasant and bountiful entertainment, we hope there will be a large attendance, as we are sure all present will have a delightful time.  Let us all cheerfully give the good cause a helping hand and thus push it onward.

 

Trzcinski Bathing Saloon [Salon]

Watertown Democrat, 06 13 1872

 

Mr. [Frank] Trzcinski as just finished fitting up a series of bathing rooms, in his Barber shop, in the basement of Noak’s [Noack?] block, opposite the Post Office, which will be ready for use on Friday and during the summer.  Either cold or warm baths can be taken at any hour of the day, with every facility to render them agreeable and healthy.  This is an establishment much needed here, and we have no doubt that most of our citizen will gladly avail themselves of it.

  More on above matter 

 

HAIR, HAIR

Watertown News, 12 09 1874

 

The subscriber has lately received a large quantity of HUMAN HAIR of the finest quality, of every length and shade.  From these he will make to order swathes and curls at 25 to 50 per cent cheaper than they can be procured at any other establishment in this or any other city within 150 miles.  Also make to order all kinds of Hair Ornaments and Hair Jewelry of every pattern and device, to suit the fancy of my patrons.  In conclusion, I thank the ladies for their past patronage, and trust, by the best attention to all orders, to give them increased satisfaction, as well as to merit the support of any portion of the trade which have not heretofore favored me with their commands.  My stock of Hair is worth at my low rates S2000.  Room at the Elegant Barber Shop Opposite P. 0.

 

F. TRZCINSKI

 

Cross reference note:  Frank Trzcinski, Barber Shop and Dealer in Ladies Imported Hair, SW corner of East Main and Second streets

 

A Grand Pic Nic

Watertown Democrat, 06 13 1872

 

Sheriff Schwellenbach attended the meeting of St. Bernard’s Temperance and Benevolent Society of this city last Sunday, and extended to its members an invitation from the Jefferson Benevolent Society to attend a grand Pic-Nic to be held at that village on the 24th inst.  St. Henri’s Society was also invited.  Societies at Madison and other places in the state are expected to be present and make the intended festival a brilliant and successful affair.

 

Hospital Project Gaining in Favor

 

Three Rooms Furnished by Charitably Inclined

Watertown Leader, 09 14 1906

 

Eagles Vote Unanimously for a Donation for a Room

Mrs. Brandenburg to Supply a Room With Sanitary Furnishings

New Hospital Will Open Oct. 1.

 

The starting of a hospital in this city seems to be gaining the general favor of the citizens and shows that the physicians are endeavoring to supply a long felt want in conjunction with the other advancements made during the last two years.  At the present time, three rooms have been vouched for and furnished by charitably inclined persons and organizations.

 

At a regular meeting of the Eagles last night a unanimous vote was taken for a charitable donation for the furnishing of a room in the hospital to be known as the Eagles Room.  This is in general accord with the policy of the lodge and speaks well for a new institution in our city. 

 

Mrs. Brandenburg, the genial proprietress of the New Commercial has also furnished a room with sanitary furnishings and modern conveniences. 

 

Above all, the young ladies of the city should be commended for their endeavors in the interest they take and show in a charitable institution for in a three-hour canvass a sum sufficient to furnish a room up-to-date was subscribed yesterday afternoon, the names of the donators to appear later. 

 

The hospital will open Oct. 1 and the citizens through their own endeavor can take pride in its furnishing and modern equipments.

 

Watertown Democrat, 07 12 1855

 

German Mass Meeting

 

At a meeting of over 1000 Germans, held on the 6th of July, 1855, in John W. Cole’s Hall in the City of Watertown, the following resolutions were brought in by the Committee appointed and unanimously passed:

 

1.  That the brutalities committed yesterday by Henry Mulberger and Henry Tigler, on several honorable German citizens of this place, deserve our deepest contempt.

 

2.  That we declare those who committed the same unworthy to be considered members of any civilized community, and that we, all and each of us, pledge ourselves  to avoid any social intercourse with the above named person, until those injured by them declare themselves duly satisfied.

 

3.  That the foregoing resolutions be published in the city papers in order to maintain the honor of the German name in the estimation of the several other nations of which our community is formed.

 

JOHN B. ENGLEMANN, President

E. Grossmann, Secretary

  More on above matter 

AN EXPLANATION

Watertown Democrat, 07 19 1855

 

To prevent any misunderstanding, we wish to state that in publishing in our last paper, resolutions purporting to have been passed by a meeting of over 1000 Germans, which reflected injuriously on the characters of MR. H. MULBERGER and MR. TIGLER, we did so at the special repeated request of a committee who were appointed to wait on us.  Mr. MULBERGER and Mr. TIGLER claim that these resolutions do them great wrong in public estimation, and are calculated to create impressions abroad not warranted by an impartial statement of facts.  We did not then, and do not now, wish to have anything to do with disputes of a purely personal nature, with which newspapers ought not to meddle.  We are entirely willing the parties claiming to have been injured in reputation by that publication, should freely use our columns to repair any wrong done them by us.

 

George Meyer - 98 Years Old

Watertown Gazette, 01 11 1889

 

Friday, Jan 4th, 1888, George Meyer of the 6th ward, died of general debility, aged 98 years.  Deceased was born in the kingdom of Hanover, and served in the French army under Napoleon Bonaparte, and took part in the celebrated retreat from Moscow in 1812.  He was at one time an officer in the army in his native land, and also for many years was a magistrate.  In 1845 he came to America settling in Ohio.  In 1846 he located in the town of Emmet, Dodge Co, where he resided for 10 years and then removed to this city.  Deceased has two sons practicing medicine in Cleveland, Ohio, William and Louis and another son, Herman, is a prominent farmer of the town of Emmet.  He was a well preserved old gentleman, and enjoyed good health until within a few weeks before he died, and retained his faculties up to the time of his death.  He was twice married, his second wife surviving him.

 

Watertown’s Big Ball

Watertown Saxophone Orchestra

 

Watertown Daily Times, 11 19 1914

 

Watertown Saxophone Orchestra.  The popularity of this celebrated orchestra is steadily and rapidly increasing as can readily be seen from the number of engagements they have for this fall and the coming winter, among which is that at Doylestown, Wis., where they will play Thanksgiving evening at the C.O.I. Ball.  Manager P. Neitzel says they have purchased new instruments and music and that they are kept busy filling their engagements.   WG

 

Watertown Daily Times, 12 17 1915

 

A flaring full-page poster on our desk announces a Grand Mask Ball in Turner Hall, Watertown, tomorrow evening, Dec. 18, 1915.  The ball is given under the auspices of the Watertown Boosters’ Pleasure and Social Club.  About 50 prizes will be distributed among the winning maskers.  Music by the Watertown Saxophone Orchestra.

 

Miss Mullen Scores

Watertown Gazette, 11 13 1908

 

Her Voice Proves of Surpassing Beauty in Last Night's Concert in Athenaeum

 

The Milwaukee Sentinel of last Friday contained the following of interest to Gazette readers, Miss [Genevieve] Mullen being a daughter of Andrew MuIlen and wife, town of Watertown: "With voice that attained, upon occasion, an almost startling tonal beauty Miss Genevieve Mullen delighted an audience in the Athenaeum last night. The only weakness in Miss Mullen's concert lay in that audience; her ability as an artist deserved better support.

 

A wonderful beauty underlies Miss Mullen's voice; care and understanding has been bestowed upon its development; Miss Mullen has learned to produce her tones in all their rich fullness. She has learned, in a measure, to beautifully color her renditions.

 

There are points of weakness, however, in her efforts. A lack of uniformity, and uncertainty—is evinced upon occasion; there is, too, the suggestion of an undesirable tremelo [a rapid alternation of two tones] and sometimes an insufficient colorature.  Her greatest perfection of tone is attained in the higher registers.  Last night, too, Miss Mullen succeeded in making the change from high to lower registers with stir-passing effect.  There is room for improvement in Miss Mullen's work—but she has already succeeded in proving the worth of her effect; in bringing to her hearers the appealing qualities of a naturally beautiful voice.

 

Her program last night included old classical, modern German and miscellaneous English songs.  It was well selected offering a variety which precluded all tiring effects. She carried it from start to conclusion with an ease and lack of all strain that of itself was meritorious.

  More on Miss Mullen 

Miss Genevieve Mullen

Watertown Gazette, 01 15 1909

 

Miss Genevieve Mullen, daughter of A. M. Mullen and wife, town of Watertown, will be one of the soloists in the concert to be given by the Milwaukee Musical Society at the Pabst theatre, Milwaukee, on January 19th in honor of the 100th anniversary of the composer Mendelssohn.

  More on Miss Mullen 

Praise for Miss Mullen

Watertown Daily Times, 01 08 1915

Last Monday’s Milwaukee Sentinel contained a lengthy write-up

of a concert given in the Auditorium Sunday afternoon.

 

Miss Genevieve Mullen, teacher of vocal music in Marquette University, made a decided hit, winning the highest praise for her superior rendition of several vocal selections.  Miss Mullen is a Watertown lady, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Mullen, of that city, and a sister of Prof. S. S. Mullen, the well-known musical instructor in our neighboring city.  In speaking of Miss Mullen’s performance, the Sentinel said:

 

“Miss Genevieve Mullen, a mezzo soprano, and a teacher of vocal music in Marquette University, was the one bright spot on the program of the afternoon, and following her brilliant rendition of the aria from Saint-Saens, “My Heart at Thy Sweet Voice,” she had to respond to insistent demands for an encore.  She graciously sang the “Happy Song,” by Teresa Del Riego.  Miss Mullen has improved wonderfully since her last appearance in concert.  Her voice has developed in quantity and quality of tone.  She has voice, style, temperament and everything that goes to make success in a singer.

 

“On Sunday in her two vocal efforts she displayed a voice splendidly under control and cable of fine gradation of tone.  For a singer so young she has a fine virility of interpretation and she has evidently worked hard, as she has overcome the technical difficulties of vocalization that seems to be the despair of singers.  She was seriously handicapped by the orchestral accompaniment in her first rendition, as the musicians seemed to drag in the first stanza.  In the second she took the baton herself, figuratively speaking, and the tempo of the piece was more vigorously rendered.

 

“In the encore number Miss Mullen displayed a great variety of color without sacrifice of beauty of tone or phrasing or rhythm.

 

“The quality in the higher notes, which were produced without apparent effort, was enriching, while in the lower register it was not blurred or dimmed, but full and round, like the notes of a flute.  There was not the slightest suggestion of strain, harshness or imperfect poise and the breath control of the singer was perfect, while the enunciation was precise, which was not allowed to suffer even in the most hurried passages.  Miss Mullen should not confine her efforts to teaching in the studio.  She should be heard more often that Milwaukee music lovers may realize that there is no need to look abroad for artists with the euphemistic sounding names that seem to be the die to impress their artistic stamp of success on our American audiences.”

  More on Prof.  S. S. Mullen 

Prof. S. S. Mullen

Watertown Gazette, 02 12 1909

 

A recital was given last Monday evening at the home of S. S. Mullen in Church Street by his Watertown pupils and a number of his pupils from Nashotah.  A fine program was rendered.

  More on Prof.  S. S. Mullen 

Musical Entertainment

Watertown Gazette, 04 30 1909

 

On Wednesday evening the faculty and students of Sacred Heart College were entertained by Prof. S. S. Mullen of this city and Prof. Moldenhauer of Oconomowoc, with a high class music program.  To comment on the excellence of the program and its rendition is unnecessary, for the names of the performers are sufficient guarantee of both choice selection and a perfect execution.  It is to be hoped that in the near future these two gentlemen, who are both connected with the musical department of the college, will repeat their program when the faculty, students and friends of the college will have an opportunity to hear them.

 

Michael Carroll Called by Death

Watertown Daily Times, 03 26 1915

Well Known Watertown Business man Passed Away Last Saturday.

 

Lived in Emmet Many Years

 

After an illness of about six months caused by periods of heart failure, Michael Carroll passed away at his home, 101 Church Street, Watertown, last Saturday evening, March 20, 1915 at the age of 79 years.

 

Mr. Carroll was born in the state of New York and came with his parents to Wisconsin when 5 years old.  The family settled in the town of Emmet, this county, in 1844 and here the boy grew up to manhood and became one of the best known and most prosperous farmers in southern Dodge County.

 

In 1858 Mr. Carroll was united in marriage to Miss Mary Burke, who preceded him in death in 1877.  To their union three children, two sons and one daughter, were born - Michael J. Carroll, who died at the age of twenty-two years; Alice, Mrs. John T. Ryan, who died May 12, 1898 and John, who passed away when seven years old.

 

While a resident of Emmet, Mr. Carroll was a member of St. Joseph’s congregation at Richwood and contributed generously to the building of St. Joseph’s Church.  The beautiful main altar in that church is the gift of Mr. Carroll.

 

In 1881 Mr. Carroll removed to Richwood where he remained for two years when he again removed to Watertown in 1883, where he has since resided.  For two years he was associated with Ed. Masterson and his son in the real estate business in Grand Forks, N. D.  Later he conducted a book store in Watertown [105 E Main, in 1900] for several years.

 

Mr. Carroll was a man of strong Christian character and was an active member of St. Bernard’s Catholic Church for many years.  His honesty and integrity was never quested and was beloved and highly esteemed by a large circle of friends.  He never aspired for political honors and was modest and unpretentious and perhaps had a wider acquaintanceship than anyone who ever lived in that section.

 

His funeral services were held in St. Bernard’s church, Watertown, last Tuesday, Mar. 23, with interment in St. Bernard’s cemetery.

 

1916, St. Mary’s Hospital benefactor

1917, Watertown library citation

 

Farmers Cheese Co.

Watertown Daily Times, 02 16 1958

 

The Farmers Cheese Co., 300 South Third Street, this year is observing its 50th anniversary, with the same family still operating the business which is now in its third generation. The company was founded in 1908 by the late G.A. Stallman. Mr. Stallman was associated with the company until his death in November, 1937. At that time his son, Carl Stallman, was already in the business with him, having come into the business in 1918. Now his son, Howard Stallman, is also associated in the business. The Farmers Cheese Co. does both a wholesale and retail cheese business, the wholesale business being its greatest source of operation.

 

Watertown Daily Times, 08 06 1958

 

The Farmers Cheese Co. of Watertown, now in its 50th year, has acquired the Gerber Cheese Shop at 126 North Main Street in Hartford as well as the Gerber Cheese Factory located in route 1, Hartford.  Howard Stallman, this city, associated with the Farmers Cheese Co. will manage the business in Hartford, spending several days a week there, but continuing to make his residence in Watertown.  Mr. Gerber who has owned both the cheese shop and the factory at Hartford plans to retire but Mrs. Gerber will continue to work at the store, at least for the present.

 

Watertown Daily Times, 06 16 1985

 

Stallman Cheese Inc. has taken over the production and distribution of Golden Bar brick cheese and will produce the product at its Hartford plant.  The cheese was formerly produced and distributed by Mr. and Mrs. William Wenger of Huilsburg.  Golden Bar brick cheese, available in many local stores, is now also sold at Stallman’s three locations in Hartford, Mapleton and Watertown.  Howard Stallman of Stallman’s Cheese Inc. said the cheese will be produced in the same manner under William Wenger’s supervision.  Stallman Cheese also produces Gerber’s Brick in Hartford, Bon Bree Semi-Soft in Mapleton, and Old Time, Clover Blossom and Pennant Brick brands at Farmer’s Cheese Shop in Watertown.

 

Terry Triana

Watertown Daily Times, 08 06 1983

 

Police officer Terry Triana, who has been with the Watertown Police Department for nearly 14 years, has been promoted to sergeant, Police Chief Richard Reynolds announced today.  The appointment of Triana, 119 N. Ninth St., was confirmed by the Police and Fire Commission Monday.  Triana will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of veteran Floyd Miller.  Triana, the son of Nick and Irene Triana, 1522 E. Main St., is a Watertown native and a 1966 graduate of Watertown Senior High School.  He joined the department as a patrolman on Sept. 29, 1969.

 

Election Stunt

Watertown Daily Times, 11 17 1916

 

Two enthusiastic neighbors down in Watertown made a novel election agreement.  One of the men was a Hughes supporter and the other fellow backed Pres. Wilson.  It was agreed that the loser would be obliged to roll a pea-nut, along the sidewalk for a distance of two blocks, using a crow bar for that purpose.  George Hoffman was the Hughes man and Freddie Meyer the Wilson man.  Last Friday evening, Hoffman worked out the agreement in the presence of a big audience.  It took him 35 minutes to do the stunt.

 

Watertown Celebrated

Watertown Daily Times, 11 17 1916

 

The Democrats down at Watertown celebrated the election of Woodrow Wilson, last Monday evening in a vigorous and broadminded manner.  The celebration consisted of a parade, music, cakewalk, tin-horn concert, red fire, roman candle display, sky rockets, firecracker shooting and other features of a demonstrative nature.  The democratic citizens paid all expenses.  They invited all parties to join in the demonstration and make the affair a community demonstration.

 

Mrs. William Wilson

Watertown Daily Times, 11 17 1916

 

The Watertown Daily Times of Nov. 15th, published the following obituary notice of the death of Mrs. William Wilson, a lady well known to many of our readers and a near relative of the editor of this paper.

 

“Mrs. Wilson, widow of the late William Wilson, and resident of Watertown for more than half a century, succumbed  to the infirmities of old age at the home of her son, Frank Wilson, in Milwaukee this morning.  Mrs. Wilson removed to Milwaukee a few months ago to reside with her son.

 

Mrs. Wilson was born in Gath, County Galway, Ireland, in 1835, and came to this country in 1854, settling in New York with her parents.  Her maiden name was Shaughnessy and she was married in Milwaukee November 5, 1860.  With the exception of a few years spent in Columbus, the family resided in Watertown ever since.  She was the mother of seven children, five of whom are living: William Wilson, New York city: Andrew Wilson, George Wilson, Chicago; Henry Wilson, Frank Wilson, Milwaukee.  Mrs. Wilson was a woman greatly respected in this community in which she passed the greater share of her life.  For several years she was an invalid but always bore her sufferings with Christian fortitude.

 

The body will be brought to Watertown on Saturday over the Milwaukee road at 8:18 a.m. and will be taken to St. Bernard’s church where services will be held.  The burial will be in St. Bernard’s cemetery.

 

Farmer Badly Injured

Watertown Daily Times, 11 17 1916

 

While shredding corn Friday, Gus Flohr, Route 1, a well known farmer, was seriously injured.

 

Mr. Flohr was standing near the bagger and a load of corn was nearby.  The team attached to the wagon started up, crowding Mr. Flohr between the bagger and the machine.  His arm was broken at the wrist, his shoulder badly injured and he received other cuts and bruises about the neck and head.

 

If he did not sustain internal injuries he will probably recover, although his condition is considered serious.

 

We regret very much to hear of this unfortunate accident to our good friend, Mr. Flohr, and sincere hope that he may speedily recover.

 

Watertown Chief of Police Resigns

Watertown Daily Times, 11 24 1916

 

Following the action of the police and fire commission of the city of Watertown in passing a resolution prohibiting the Chief of Police to leave the city without consent of either the president or secretary of the commission, Chief of Police Herman C. Block last Saturday tendered his resignation.   This action was taken by Mr. Block as he could not see his way clear to the proper exercise of his duties if restrictions were to be enforced similar to the one adopted by the police and fire commission.

 

Chief Block has been a member of the Watertown police department twenty-three years and was at the head of the department for twenty-one years.  He is well known in this city, having been a frequent visitor here on official business.

 

Tri-Mart Corp

Watertown Daily Times, 08 11 1983

 

Tri-Mart Corporation, 1301 Clark Street, a tobacco and grocery wholesaler, has closed and inventory and assets have been sold to Cavella Tobacco Company Inc. of Milwaukee, spokesmen for the firms said today.  Cavella bought the inventory when Tri-Mart closed, said Stacy Terris, of Cavella.  Tri-Mart supplied food, tobacco and other items to businesses such as taverns, groceries and drug stores.  Terris said some of Tri-Mart's 50 employees have been offered positions with Cavella to continue servicing Tri-Mart's accounts. T ri-Mart had been a division of Farm House Foods, Inc., a large Milwaukee-based firm.

 

Byron Equipment Company

Watertown Daily Times, 08 11 1998

 

Byron Equipment Company of Byron, N.Y., plans to move its manufacturing operations out of Watertown as part of a merger with Pixall, LLC. of Clear Lake.  As a result of the move, 25 positions in Watertown will be phased out over the next few months, according to a statement released by Byron.  Manufacturing operations at the Byron facility in Watertown, located at W6960 Silver Creek Road, will be moved to Clear Lake to take advantage of Pixall's larger manufacturing plant.

 

Methodist Vocal Music Association

Watertown Democrat, 07 19 1855

 

At a meeting held at the Methodist Church on Tuesday evening, July 10th, 1855, for the purpose of organizing a Vocal Music Association.  On motion, Dr. W. J. Sawin was called to the chair, and John Ford was chosen Secretary.

 

After a few appropriate remarks by several gentlemen on the importance of such an association, Dr. W. J. Sawin, G. W. Griffith and Volney L. Moore were appointed a committee to draw up a Constitution and By-Laws to be read at the next meeting, to be held at the Methodist Church on Tuesday evening, 17th inst.

 

JOHN FORD, Secretary

 

South First St Parking Lot

Watertown Daily Times, 06 18 1983

 

A plan to build a parking lot along South First Street from the Watertown Senior Center and to develop the remaining open land for recreational activities will come before the city council when it meets at 7 p.m. The council sent the original plan to build a lot running along South First Street back to the Park, Recreation and Forestry Commission earlier this year.

 

Commencement!

Watertown Daily Times, 06 26 1908

Farewell to the Senior of 1908!

 

Northwestern University celebrated its commencement at the university chapel yesterday forenoon, the exercises commencing at 10:00 o'clock.  Many relatives and friends of the graduating class and of the institution were present, the chapel being filled to its capacity.

 

The decorations for the occasion were neat and appropriate and consisted of the college colors as the college colors, black and red, and of the graduating class colors, purple and gold, above the stage was placed the motto of the class reading “Poscimur '08.”  The letters were in gold on a purple background. 

 

The exercises consisted of three orations by members of the graduating class, selections by the band, orchestra, choir and quartette of the university, addresses by Prof. A. F. Ernst, prayer by Rev. O. Hoenecke of Milwaukee and the hymn, “A mighty fortress is our God,” sung by the assembly.  All the numbers were listed to with intense interest by the audience and were a credit to the institution.

 

Watertown Municipal Airport

Watertown Daily Times, 07 05 1983

 

A six year statement of project intentions for the Watertown Municipal Airport was tabled by the Watertown City Council Tuesday night, pending a public hearing.  Alderman Lawrence Seeber asked that the council delay action on the statement, which is required by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Bureau of Aeronautics for planning purposes.  The statement calls for expenditures of $120,000 in fiscal year 1984 and a new parking ramp and lights, $185,000 in 1986 for two-inch overlay on the asphalt runway, a city project in 1988 of a new parking lot for cars and $25,000 in 1989 for seal coating a runway.

  More on Airport 

Watertown Airport Commission

Watertown Daily Times, 08 19 1958

 

The Watertown Airport Commission today announced the appointment of Ralph Duddeck, operator of the Watertown Aviation Co. as its official representative at the Watertown Airport, effective Sept. 1.  Mr. Duddeck, who operates the aviation company, will succeed the present manager of the airport, Attorney Daniel J. Garber whose contract expires on Sept. 1.  Mr. Duddeck has operated the aviation company for the past four years and employs five men in addition to himself, servicing, repairing and maintaining airplanes in Watertown and the Watertown area.  The concern has also built airplanes and its work has attracted state and national attention.

  More on Airport 

Airport Facts

Watertown Daily Times, 09 18 1958

 

Ralph E. Duddeck, the newly appointed manager of the Watertown Airport, has taken over his duties and during an interview yesterday afternoon revealed a number of pertinent facts about the airport which are not generally known by the public or if they have been known have been overlooked or forgotten.  He pointed out that the airport, which has two runways, one paved and lighted for night flying and with hangars for plane storage, is a city-owned facility built with about 50 per cent federal funds supplied under the Federal Airport Aid Act and 25 per cent state funds to match with the city furnishing the remainder.  Thus, 75 cents of each dollar in the airport came from outside city tax rolls.

 

New Postmaster

Watertown Daily Times, 08 07 1983

 

Janet M. Bauer, 31, 1001 Labaree St., superintendent of postal operations for the Watertown Post Office, has been named postmaster. The announcement was made today by James Oster, manager of the Milwaukee Sectional Center and Milwaukee Postmaster, Bauer's immediate supervisor. The appointment is effective Aug. 20.

 

Population, 1950 & 1958 & 1983

Watertown Daily Times, 08 12 1958

 

The population of the city of Watertown is 13,250, according to a report made public here today.  It shows that the city's population was 12,417 in 1950 and at the end of 1957 it rose to 13,250, the period covered in the report. 

 

Watertown Daily Times, 08 26 1983

 

Population estimates for state aid purposes indicate that the population of Dodge and Jefferson counties have increased, even though some communities may have lost residents.  The Wisconsin Department of Administration's Demographic Services released the figures today.  The estimates are used to determine state shared revenue allocations based on population.  The estimate of Watertown's Jefferson County population decreased from 12,001 in 1982 to 11,965 in 1983.  The city's Jefferson County population, according to the 1980 U.S. census, was 12,202.  The estimated population of the Dodge County portion rose from 6,306 in 1982 to 6,364 at the start of this year. The 1980 census counted 5,911 residents in the Dodge County wards.

 

First Insurance Services

Watertown Daily Times, 08 12 1983

 

New First Insurance Services owner Ron Newman has announced plans for the agency that include expanding services and increasing the size of the staff.  Newman, who managed the agency from 1975-78, took ownership of First Insurance Services, 600 Main Street, on June 1.  First Insurance, whose major carriers include Home Mutual of Appleton, Heritage Insurance of Sheboygan, All-State and Auto-Owners, will offer all lines of insurance.

 

Franklin Zabell

Watertown Daily Times, 08 12 2008

 

Franklin Frederick Zabell, 69, of Watertown, died believing in Jesus, the world's Savior, and was called to his home in heaven during the early morning hours of Monday, Aug. 11, 2008.

 

Franklin was born in Pigeon, Mich., on Aug. 24, 1938, son of Frederick and Emma (Einhardt) Zabell, and was born again in the waters of Holy Baptism on Sept. 7, 1938. He was confirmed in the Lutheran faith on April 27, 1952.

 

He met his wife, Bethel Kell, while standing in the registration line at Dr. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minn. The two were married on June 17, 1962, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Watertown, S.D., and were blessed with 46 years of marriage.

 

From his childhood days on the farm, Franklin took an interest in music, and he spent most of his adult life directing choirs and playing the organ for services in church. Before graduating from college, he served as tutor at Northwestern Lutheran Academy in Mobridge, S.D. Upon graduation he was called to serve as principal and teacher first at Grace Lutheran in Benton Harbor, Mich., and then at Gethsemane Lutheran in Milwaukee.

 

In 1972 he accepted the call to teach music and direct choir at Northwestern Preparatory School (now known as Luther Preparatory School), where he served until his retirement in 1995. While there, he founded and directed a traveling choir of select students called the Prep Singers. He also founded and directed a local Lutheran adult choral group called the Vesper Singers, who presented concerts of Christian music in Watertown for a number of years.

 

During his time in Watertown he directed church choirs at Immanuel Lutheran in Farmington and Trinity Lutheran in Watertown, and was an organist at both churches. He also served for a time as district worship coordinator for the Western Wisconsin District of the Wisconsin Synod . . .

 

Allard Express

Watertown Daily Times, 09 03 1959

 

A new building for Allard Express, Inc., will be constructed in Watertown, it was announced by Edward E. Allard, president.  The new building will be erected on a nine and one-half acre site located immediately west of the I. L. Henry Co.  The property was acquired from Herman Kant.  The Watertown Association of Commerce assisted the trucking firm in locating the site.  The building will be 200 by 32 feet, which includes a 40 by 30 area for office quarters.  It also includes a terminal unit with a 15 door cross deck, which will accommodate 30 semi-trailers.  The area around the building will be graded and covered with crushed stone.  Presently Allard is located in Hart Street in quarters rented from Max Wolf, whose trucking business Allard Express purchased on April 1, 1951.

  More on Allard Express 

Allard Express Closed

Watertown Daily Times, 06 19 1983

 

Allard Express, 806 Elm Street, closed its doors on Monday.  Employees of the firm were told of the decision to close the business at a meeting Monday morning by Millicent C. Allard, president of the company.  Approximately 68 people were affected by the decision, most of whom are with the Watertown terminal.  The firm also operates terminals in Chicago and Milwaukee.  It operated primarily in Wisconsin, northern Illinois and Indiana.  Allard's terminal in Watertown as well as some equipment has been purchased by Clairmont Transfer Company.  That firm is now operating at the Allard location.  A few Allard employees have been offered positions with Clairmont.  Allard has been in business for 53 years, and the firm has been headed by Millicent Allard since the death of her father, Edward, in 1960.

 

Police Chief Chuck McGee

 

Watertown Police Department

 

Served as chief since being hired by the Watertown Police and Fire Commission back in June of 1993 when he succeeded Richard Reynolds.  McGee succeeded as chief by former deputy Chief Tim Roets.

 

The recurring theme of the speeches from people who spoke during the event was that McGee was responsible for taking a police department and making it a leader in Wisconsin.  It was noted Watertown was one of the first police departments in the state to implement the Sex Offender Registry Program and it was implemented through McGee's leadership.

 

Mayor Ron Krueger welcomed the guests, and the invocation was given by the Rev. Brian Wilk of St. Henry’s Catholic Church.

 

Krueger also present McGee with a plaque holding his badge and thanked the former chief for his 15 years of service to the police department and the community.

 

McGee, who formerly lived in Broomfield, Colo., worked for the Northglenn Police Department starting in October of 1975.  He served as a patrol officer and corporal for five years and was transferred to the investigation department, where he served as a detective for 24 years.  He was transferred back to the patrol division when he was promoted to sergeant.  In 1985, he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. He was patrol commander of the department when he accepted the Watertown position.

 

McGee, who also worked as a police officer in Aurora, Colo., and Laramie, Wyo., has a master's degree in criminal justice from the University of Colorado at Denver.  He received his bachelor of science degree from the University of Wyoming in 1971 and graduated from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Academy in Quantico, Va., in 1988.

 

Watertown Daily Times full text article

 

Wisconsin State Fair

2008

 

The first Wisconsin State Fair was held in Janesville in 1851 on a six-acre plot along the banks of the Rock River and was sponsored by the State Agricultural Society.  At this time, the Fair was in October for just two days, admission was only a dime and attendance was between 13,000 and 18,000 people.  Some major attractions at the 1851 Fair included a 200-pound squash and a quarter-acre plowing competition. At this time in history, the Fair was the largest reported gathering in Wisconsin history.

 

During the next 41 years, the Fair was held in Watertown, Fond du Lac, Madison and Milwaukee. It was not until 1892 that the Fair was held on today’s West Allis site where it has remained for the last 116 years.  The new fairgrounds featured a 6,000-seat Grandstand, a racetrack with four barns for racehorses and various exhibit buildings.

 

For significant historical reasons, the State Fair has been cancelled five different times. The 1861 Fair, set to be held in Madison, was cancelled due to the Civil War. In fact, the Fair grounds were used as a training camp for the volunteer troops, leading to additional Fair cancellations in 1862 and 1863. When the World’s Columbian Exposition was held in Chicago in 1893, State Fair officials anticipated a loss in attendance to the Wisconsin State Fair due to the excitement in the neighboring city and once again cancelled the Fair. The final cancellation was during World War II, in 1945, at the request of the US Office of War Transportation.

 

Clerks Make Good Showing

Watertown Daily Times, 02 04 1916

 

Chief Clerk Frank F. McBride, of the 10th division of railway mail service, examined four of the clerks in the Watertown post office on Monday with the following splendid results:

 

Carl A. Semrich, out of 1260 cards thrown, missed only one, his percentage being 99:92 Time 35 minutes; correct cards per minute 36

 

W. L. Schlueter, out of 1260 cards thrown, missed only two, his percentage being 99:84. Time 26 minutes; correct cards per minute 48.

 

Ary G. Keel, out of 1260 cards thrown, missed only 6, his percentage being 99:52.  Time 37 minutes; correct cards per minute 34.

 

Arthur E. Jaeger, out of 1260 cards thrown, missed only four, his percentage being 99:68.  Time 55 minutes; correct cards per minute 23.

 

This is a very fine record and speaks well for the efficiency of the Watertown post office force. 

 

Firefighter Supplemental Income

Watertown Daily Times, 08 18 2008

 

On the agenda of the Watertown Common Council when it meets Tuesday will be a resolution denying a request from a Watertown firefighter who is looking for the city to pay him a supplemental income beyond the required 90 days will be on the agenda of the council.

 

Firefighters Chad Butler is on temporary disability and has received payments from the city for 90 calendar days to make up the difference between his workers' compensation payments and his normal salary.

 

Butler has asked fire Chief Henry Butts to petition the city to continue these payments past the 90 required days.

  More on above matter 

Watertown Daily Times, 08 20 2008

 

A resolution denying a request from a Watertown firefighter who is looking for the city to pay him a supplemental income beyond the required 90 days was approved by the council.

 

Firefighter Chad Butler, who is on temporary disability, has received payments from the city for 90 calendar days to make up the difference between his workers' compensation payments and his normal salary.  Butler had asked Butts to petition the city to continue these payments past the 90 required days.

 

“When a city employee is injured on the job they get 90 days of workman's comp, which is two-thirds of their salary tax-free,” Krueger said. “The city matches the other third and that is taxable. City code says the city is liable for 90 days of payments which we have done.”

 

During the time for public comment at the beginning of the council meeting, Butler, who was injured on the job in April, asked the aldermen to consider extending his pay.

 

Alderman Tony Arnett said the council feels for any city employee who suffers injuries on the job, but he added that he could not justify extending the payments because of a lack of exceptional circumstances.

 

The Finance Committee looking at the situation did not see that this rose to the exceptional circumstances that would merit a special exception.

 

Cook is a Capital Fellow

Watertown Democrat, 08 07 1858

 

Planters is winning “golden opinions from all sorts of people” by the excellent and liberal hospitality of [the] house. “Confidence is restored” and every exertion made to render the sojourn of guests pleasant and agreeable. Cook is a capital fellow and keeps a capital house.

 

The spirit of the time requires in every man not only a thorough knowledge of his own profession, but much general knowledge, to enable him to keep pace with the rapid changes which are taking place around him.

 

Heron Landing Subdivision

Watertown Daily Times, 08 20 2008

 

Watertown council members endorsed resolutions approving the final plat and developer's agreement for the Heron Landing subdivision on the south side of the city near Wal-Mart.

 

The 172-acre Heron Landing subdivision is expected to include about 235 lots for single family homes, 58 duplex units and 98 multifamily units.  The subdivision also consists of 7.6 acres for commercial purposes, 5.6 acres for public parks, 18 acres of wetlands and 26.3 acres for storm water management.

 

The Watertown Fire Department has made city officials aware that it opposes the new subdivision because of issues with response times. The city's fire station on Jones Street is about 3 miles away from the subdivision.

 

“Currently it takes us about five to six minutes on a good day,” fire Chief Henry Butts said, while describing the time it takes for firefighters to get to the area of the subdivision. “Fires double in size about every 17 seconds if you don't do anything about it and when someone's not breathing, the longer you wait, the less chance you have for a successful outcome. The whole issue is about response times.”

 

Request of Library Board

Watertown Gazette, 10 09 1908

 

The Finance Committee has fully considered the report and request of the board of library directors.  The request for $2512 is not exorbitant for stated reasons which will follow later.  The report shows that said board has husbanded its finances and that the library is an institution in the maintenance of which the city cannot stint owing mainly to its immense patronage by the public and its utility to those who seek economic data.  This committee, however, regrets in view or all that has been stated, the fact that it deems it for the best interest, to the city's finance not to allow the levy of the whole amount asked far but that the council will show the city's good will and do some good in a way that will not affect the tax levy of this year by recommending a levy of $2250. 

 

In the removal of the public library from its former site necessary expenditures were increased.  The committee have heard the statement that premiums paid for building insurance during last fiscal year were increased in order to insure for the period of three years, thereby in the end saving one year's premium money, the committee finds that rent to the amount of $200 which had to be paid during the last year will now be entirely wiped away as a library expenditure. 

 

The committee endorses the efforts of the librarian and her able assistant in honoring the city of Watertown with the fame of having the best conducted library of its size, and also commend the fact that the public is using the library building for meetings.  It further finds that some small extraordinary expenses mentioned have been liquidated and that the library is now an assured institution and that its levy for its maintenance will stay at about an equal total, increasing proportionately with that of the assessment rolls and the growth of population.

 

Novel Mouse Trap

Watertown Gazette, 10 09 1908

 

Attorney Nicholas Thauer has discovered a novel mousetrap in an article in everyday use at this season of the year—Tanglefoot fly paper.  He says that whenever he is troubled with mice in his office he places a few sheets upon the floor when he leaves it in the evening and, on arriving there in the morning, he has found as many as five caught fast in the paper.  This may seem a joke, but Nic says its gospel truth. Try it.  [In addition to fly paper, a "Tree Tanglefoot" product, introduced in the early 1900's, was a breakthrough for home gardeners, commercial growers, farmers and researchers.  The gooey substance stopped crawling insects in their tracks, preventing them from climbing trees to feed on fruit or foliage, or to deposit their eggs].

 

Soldiers Camp Here

Watertown Gazette, 10 09 1908

 

Batteries E and F of the Second Battalion U. S. Artillery will camp in Watertown on the night of October 15.  They are on their way from the west to Fort Sheridan, Ill.  The troop consists of six officers, 160 men and 250 horses.

 

Baseball

Watertown Gazette, 10 09 1908

 

At Washington Park last Sunday the Watertown baseball team was defeated by the Gross Hardwares of Milwaukee.  Score 4 to 3.

 

Taft and Sherman Club Organized

 

Watertown Gazette, 10 09 1908

 

At the club room in the public library a Taft and Sherman club was organized last Monday night by electing the following officers:

 

President—J. F. Prentiss

Vice President—W. F. Gruetzmacher

Recording Secretary—P. H. Swift.

Corresponding Secretary—Fred F. Wittenwyler

Treasurer—C. A. Skinner

Executive Committee:  W. H. Woodard, H. Werthheimer, C. A. Kohn, A. H. Hartwig,

                                          William Wedemeyer, F. M. Eaton, J. E. McAdams.

 

 

In the election of 1908, popular incumbent President Theodore Roosevelt, honoring a promise not to seek a third term, persuaded the Republicans to nominate William Howard Taft, his close friend and Secretary of War, as his successor, and James S. Sherman as his running mate.

 

Cross Reference:

1909, President Taft at Watertown Wis Sept 17 '09 - Photo by A.R. Meyers

1909, Train stop in Watertown, Depot (Watertown Junction)

 

C. E. W. Griffith

Watertown Gazette, 10 09 1908

 

The members of the Saturday Club have secured the services of the eminent Shakespearean reader C. E. W. Griffith for the evening of Tuesday, October 20th, at Masonic Temple hall.  Mr. Griffith has read before Watertown audiences twice, giving some of the heavier tragedies; this time he will render something in a lighter vein.  All who really enjoy a rare treat should not fail to hear him.

 

Hus Apartments

Watertown Daily Times, 08 22 1983

 

Durant Architectural group has been instructed by the boards of Marquardt Memorial Manor, Mueller Apartments and Moravian Homes to develop construction documents, the next step in the development of Hus Apartments.  The sale of apartments will continue.  The objective is readiness for construction in November.  The Hus Apartments are designed for persons age 62 and older.  The two-bedroom apartments will be designed for security, with emergency call capacity in each room, freedom from maintenance concerns and easy access to the noon meal program at Mueller Apartments.

  More on Hus Apartments 

Watertown Daily Times, 11 17 1983

 

Ground was broken Monday for Hus Apartments, a senior citizen facility to be operated as part of Marquardt Memorial Manor.  Taking part in the ceremony were future residents of the new apartments, officials from Marquardt Manor and Mueller Apartments, and members of the Moravian clergy.  Hus Apartments is the fifth construction project by Maas Brothers Construction Company on the site of Marquardt Manor.  The project also represents the fifth set of plans prepared by Jerry Dommer of the Durant group of architects.

 

High School Remodeling Program

Watertown Daily Times, 08 22 1958

 

Roger B. Holtz, superintendent of schools, announced this morning, following a meeting of school authorities with the contractors working on the High School remodeling program, that it has been decided to delay the opening of high school operations by one week. He said that all seventh grade, all new eighth grade and all new high school students will meet for orientation on Friday, Sept. 12 at 1 p.m.

 

Gus Neitzel

Watertown Gazette, 10 16 1908

 

Gus Neitzel, formerly engineer of the Fire Department’s Silsby fire engine, and of late years in the employ of the Gasoline Engine Works in Milwaukee, writes from St. Louis, Mo.  “Down here looking after one of our traction engines."  "Gus" is on the ladder and following in the wake of many Watertown boys who have gained fame and prominence.

 

Directors in City

Watertown Gazette, 10 16 1908

 

On Wednesday the directors of the Lutheran Home for the Feeble-Minded [Bethesda] were in the city and held a business meeting here.  Wm. K. Weissbrodt, the superintendent of the home, was also in the city.  They visited the site for the new home in the southern part of the Third ward, and the site for the building was staked out.  It is to be L shaped, the main part three stories high and basement 42x86 feet, and the wing two stories high, 26x75 feet.  It will accommodate 85 besides those in charge of the home.  The cost will be about $30,000.  Bids on the work will be asked for in December and early next spring work on the building will be commenced.

 

Railway Wreck

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

At 1 o'clock last Saturday afternoon a double-header freight train on the C.&N.W. Ry. going north ran into a C.M.&St.P. Ry. freight going east at the railway crossing at the Junction.  No one was injured, but one of the C.&N.W. engines and a number of coaches were badly wrecked.  Conductor W. F. Clasen and Engineer Chas. Burmaster had charge of the C.M.&St.P. freight, and D. F. Harrison and C. F. Dunwiddie had charge of the Northwestern.

 

Young Ladies Society of St. Bernard's

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

ELECTED OFFICERS.  The Young Ladies Society of St. Bernard's Church elected the following officers last Sunday morning for the ensuing year:

 

Mary Florian Moore—President

Josephine Darcey—Vice-President

Mary Crangle—Secretary

Marie Killian—Treasurer

 

Woman's Guild of St. Paul's

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

The Harvest Home Supper at Masonic Hall last week Thursday evening by the Woman's Guild of St. Paul's Church was well attended.  The decorations were quite unique, consisting of autumn leaves, cornstalks, pumpkins, peppers, etc.  The affair was a very pleasant one, and all speak highly of the menu served.

 

Max Tetzlaff

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

GRANTED REGISTERED CERTIFICATE.  The Wisconsin State Board of Pharmacy granted Max Tetzlaff of this city a registered assistant certificate at the examination held at Madison last week.

 

Football

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

Thursday afternoon of last week, on the campus of the Northwestern University in this city, the University football team defeated the Sacred Heart College team by a score of 16 to 5.  The game was a very interesting one and was thoroughly enjoyed by the large crowd present.

 

Board of Education will Entertain Teachers.

Watertown Gazette, 10 16 1908

 

Friday evening of this week the Board of Education will entertain the public school teachers of this city at Masonic Hall.  A musical and literary program has been arranged for the occasion and luncheon will be served.

  More on Watertown Public Schools 

Public School Teachers Entertained by the Board of Education

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

Friday evening of last week the Board of Education entertained the teachers of the Watertown public schools at Masonic Hall, the object of the meeting being to have the Board and teachers get in closer touch with each other in regard to the government and advancement of school interests.  The entertainment was of an informal nature, and all present had an opportunity during the evening to discuss school matters among themselves.  The more formal feature of the evening consisted of talks by Frank M. Eaton, as toastmaster, welcoming remarks and a brief history of the schools and their teachers since 1887 by President of the Board, James W. Moore.  Since entering the Board of Education in 1887, he showed that there had been a steady advance in the schools of the city—the high school at that time had four teachers, including the superintendent, and at the present time, it has nine, including the superintendent.  Its course of study in its various departments is in line with that laid out by the state officials, and the school is recognized as one of the very best in Wisconsin.  The grades have also advanced in standard and kept pace with the educational spirit of the age.  The standard of teachers has been raised and as a consequence salaries have been increased about 33 per cent.  The average salary paid in 1887, including high school teachers, was $45 per month, and today it is $60.50.  From year to year there is more expected of the teacher, and as a result, their work is of greater importance, hence deserves and should receive better salaries than even now paid them. 

 

Supt. Roseman responded to the president's remarks in a brief but able manner, outlining how the Board of Education and teachers might profitably work together in the interests of the schools and extending thanks in behalf of the teachers for the kind hospitality and interest shown by the members of the Board of Education.  Miss Ida Kopp, Miss Mary Crangle, Miss Anna Holland and Prof. B. E. McCormick were also called on for a few remarks, as were Hon. Wm. F. Voss and C. H. Jacobi.  Both gentlemen said they had but little to add to what already had been said, but Mr. Voss took occasion to make himself popular with the ladies by intimating that the best part of the evening's program was yet to come—a fine luncheon by the wives, daughters and sisters of the members of the Board.  The address of the evening was delivered by B. E. Nelson, superintendent of schools of Racine.  Mr. Nelson is a pleasing speaker and his reference to the relation of the teacher to the pupil, to the Board of Education and to the parent was discussed in a very practical and interesting manner.  Cooperation of these forces he demonstrated could not help but result beneficially to the pupils and society in general.  His remarks on manual training and domestic science in the schools were particularly interesting.  The old courses of study he said tended to educate the boys and girls away from the farm and the home, and manual training and domestic science would have the opposite effect.  His remarks were highly appreciated by all present.

 

Mrs. C. R. Feld, accompanied by Miss Minnie Notz, rendered a beautiful vocal selection and responded to an encore.  Her voice was in most excellent form, and her singing was greatly enjoyed.  Luncheon was now ready, and while the young ladies were getting busy to serve the good things and all being seated at the tables, "America" was sung with a spirit that showed that all present were having a good time.  After luncheon Miss Vivian, by request, rendered some excellent piano and vocal music and at 11:30 all joined in singing “Home, Sweet Home,” and at its conclusion, "Good Night, we all had a pleasant time," was heard from every section of the hall.

 

SIDELIGHTS ON THE RECEPTION

 

One young lady took exception to the way the High School professors flirted with the other ladies.  An ex-president of the Board had more than his share of ice cream.

 

A spelling contest took place between the president of the Board and a number of the teachers seated at his table.  Several of the younger teachers recently from Normal asked him to spell daguerreotype, but he pleaded for a more difficult test of his abilities as a speller and he was given another broadside with deleble, supposing he would of course, spell the word as the tale [tail] end if indelible is spelled.  He retaliated by asking the aforesaid young ladies to spell two simple words, but words that are frequently misspelled by many who consider themselves good spellers—judgment and judgeship.  For an instant one of them was taken off her guard and put the “e” after “g” in judgment and left it out after “g” in judgeship.  She rallied heroically to her own defense and said that the president's judgment in selecting words to catch the unwary would be referred by her to another "judgeship" and that at some future gathering of teachers she would present him with a daguerreotype of a deleble nature, such as a member of the Board recently received of a lady applicant for a position in the public schools.

 

Soldiers Camped Here

Watertown Gazette, 10 16 1908

 

The Fourth artillery, United States Army camped here Thursday night on the Northwestern University campus, Col. A. Solliday having looked after the selection of the place for the troops.

  More on camping of soldiers 

Fourth Artillery of the United States Army

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

The Soldier Boys Visit Watertown

 

Thursday afternoon of last week the second battalion of the Fourth Artillery of the United States Army, en route from Sparta to Fort Sheridan, near Chicago, Ill., pitched their tents on the campus of the Northwestern University in this city and remained here till Friday evening.  It is what is known as the mountain battery class and was only organized last June.  It consists of 212 men, 40 of whom only are veterans, the balance being new recruits.  The horses and mules are also new in service.  The battery left Camp Esch near Sparta October 7th, and will reach Fort Sheridan on Friday of this week.  Many of the new recruits are dissatisfied with the life of a battery soldier, and it is said there has been over 40 desertions from this battery since June last.  The veterans in the service, however, say they prefer it to civil life. 

 

While in the city the boys appeared to have a good time.  They are a soldiery looking lot of young fellows and though many of them were out late at night and were given the freedom of the city while here, they behaved themselves, as soldiers of Uncle Sam should on all occasions.  True, some of them were smitten with the fair lassies of Watertown, and who could blame them, for Watertown has the reputation of having the best looking women on earth, especially the young ladies.  A few of our Watertown girls were also evidently badly in love with some of the soldier boys, and, no doubt, appeared more "spoony" than they should on the public streets, but as every good, patriotic American girl likes the American soldiers, especially the young and tender ones, as was so forcibly shown in the recent war with Spain, when the girls all over the country were breaking their necks to make love to Hubson, one of the navy's great heroes, the people of Watertown will forgive the girls who were so badly smitten last week on the battery boys, and hope that no greater calamity will befall any of them than that a few of the boys at least may come back in the near future and make two hearts beat as one. 

 

Most of the artillery boys are New Yorkers, and of course Watertown girls dearly love anybody from New York.  Spank a girl for falling in love with a soldier boy!  No, never while the starry banner waves over this great county, "the home of the brave and the free."  Any American girl who has not a warm spot in her heart for the soldier boys ought to be taken out and shot as a traitor—but girls, all jokes aside, it's not nice to get too "giddy."

 

Emma Tetzlaff

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

Mrs. Bernhard Hackenbarth died at Pomona, California, on Sunday, October 18, 1908.  Her remains will be brought here for interment.  Deceased was a daughter of Herman Tetzlaff and wife of this city, her maiden name being Emma Tetzlaff.  She was born in Watertown May 10, 1874, and on September 28, 1904, was married to Mr. Hackenbarth in this city.  Her husband survives her.  The news of her death was received here with sincere sorrow. She was a most excellent lady and was dearly beloved by a large acquaintance.

 

Elvis

Watertown Daily Times, 08 19 1998

 

Elvis is alive and well - and working as a police officer in Watertown.  Actually, The King of Rock ‘n' Roll isn't really driving a city police squad car here.  Instead, recent sightings place Elvis as a clerk at a 7-Eleven convenience store somewhere out West.  However, the spirit of Elvis Presley is well represented locally in the form of Watertown police officer Michael Kumbier, who has been moonlighting as an Elvis impersonator.

 

Arthur Heide and Bride

Watertown Gazette, 10 23 1908

 

Last Monday evening the clerks of Schempf Bros. Co. surprised Arthur Heide and bride at their home in North Warren Street, where all passed a few hours very pleasantly.

 

Fred Sydow

Watertown Gazette, 10 30 1908

 

Democratic Candidate for Coroner, Fred Sydow, the old democratic war horse, formerly of the town of Watertown, now a resident of the city of Watertown, is the candidate for coroner, and if elected, no one will take more pleasure in seeing that the republicans of this county get a respectable burial on the day after election than he.  Watch for Fred's smile if Jefferson County rolls up one of its old time democratic majorities on November 3d next.

 

O. D. Pease Post Celebration

Watertown Gazette, 10 30 1908

 

In honor of the 25th anniversary of O. D. Pease Post No. 94, G. A. R. of this city, the members celebrated the occasion at the post hall in Main Street last Friday evening.  Commander Fred. Kusel gave a history of the organization, and Comrades W. D. Sproesser and David Schweiger related a number of interesting reminiscences of their personal experiences during the war of the rebellion, which was of great interest to all present.  A fine luncheon was served by the Woman's Relief Corps, and cards, music and speeches helped to make the evening a memorable one in the history of the Post.  The committee in charge, Jacob Ditschler, D. Schweiger and H. L. Volkmann arranged a most creditable program.  The Post was organized on July 7, 1883, and was named after a Watertown boy who died in the war.  There were 13 charter members, and eight of them are still living.  During its existence 133 Comrades were mustered into the post.

 

The officers of the charter membership were as follows:

Commander—Fred Kusel.

Senior Vice Commander—A. Solliday.

Junior Vice Commander—John Muth.

Chaplain—D. D. Scott.

Officer of the Day—Jacob Ditschler.

Officer of Guard—L. C. Green.

Surgeon—W. C. Spalding [William]

Quartermaster—John Habhegger.

Adjurant—Charles J. Wenck.

Sergeant Major—A. Gritzner.

 

The charter members were Fred Kusel, Charles J. Wenck, John Muth, John Walter, L. Green, M. E. Monrean, A. Solliday, Henry Bassinger, Jacob Ditschler, W. C. Spaulding, D. D. Scott, Amand Gritzner and John Habhegger.

 

Strauss & Sette in New Store

Watertown Gazette, 10 30 1908

 

Strauss & Sette, general merchants, who have for years been located at 114 [East] Main Street, now occupy their new store at 117 [E] Main Street, the southwest corner of Main and Second streets, almost directly opposite their old stand.  Their steadily increasing trade found it necessary for them to provide larger quarters for their business, hence they bought the property they now occupy and had it fitted out . . . the exterior of the building is very attractive, especially the large plate glass show window, with rounded corner, the window displaying goods on both Main and Second streets.  The interior of the store, from basement to roof is fitted out in the latest style, and in a manner to display the store goods to the very best advantage.  It is one of the very best lighted stores in the city, and their fine line of goods shows up to very good effect. 

 

The firm of Strauss & Sette is one of the most enterprising in the city, and their fair and honest dealing with the general public has gained for them an immense patronage. They fully deserve it, and their hosts of friends wish them continued prosperity in their new home.

 

Order of Eagles

Watertown Gazette, 10 30 1908

 

MEMBERS OF OLD ABE AERIE No. 1242 Fraternal Order of Eagles and their ladies celebrated the 3d anniversary of the local aerie [a nest located on a cliff or high place] last Monday evening at their rooms in Main Street.  The program consisted of dancing, cards and music.

 

Football

Watertown Gazette, 10 30 1908

 

The Northwestern University football team defeated Carroll College of Waukesha last Saturday afternoon, 15 to 0.  In the first half, Northwestern repeatedly had the ball within striking distance only to lose it by penalties at critical moments.  Northwestern won by almost perfect handling of the forward pass and the brilliant work of Captain Zeisler and Hoffman.

 

Farmer’s Wife and Her Churn

Watertown Gazette, 10 30 1908

 

The farmer’s wife is very careful about her churn.  She scalds it thoroughly after using, and gives it a sun bath to sweeten it.  She knows that if her churn is sour it will taint the butter that is made in it.  The stomach is a churn.  In the stomach and digestive and nutritive tracts are performed processes which are exactly akin to the churning of butter.  Is it not apparent then that if this stomach churn is “sour” it sours all which is put into it?  The evil of a foul stomach is not the bad taste in the mouth and the foul breath caused by it, but the corruption of the pure current of blood and the dissemination of the disease throughout the body.  Dr. Pierce’s Golden Medical Discovery makes the sour stomach sweet.  It does for the stomach what the washing and sun bath do for the churn—absolutely removing every tainting or corrupting element.  “Golden Medical Discovery” contains no alcohol.

 

John and Ruby Nelson

Watertown Daily Times, 08 21 1998

 

MILWAUKEE - M&I Marshall & Ilsley Bank has awarded one of its “Ten Most Admired Senior Citizens” awards to E. John and Ruby Nelson of Watertown. The Nelsons have been involved in many volunteer activities in the past 30 years. They have served on the board of directors and as various officers of the Jefferson County ARC since 1969, and have sponsored twice a year a rummage sales as a fund-raiser for the Jefferson County ARC also since 1969.

 

Prominent Pioneer

Watertown Daily Times, 09 16 1915

 

Hon. Thomas Shinnick of Watertown is probably the oldest member of the state legislature, having served as assemblyman from Jefferson County in the year 1867 and again in 1876.  Mr. Shinnick is one of the best known democrats in Jefferson County, having served almost continuously as chairman of the town of Watertown since 1857 until his removal to Watertown a few years ago.  He is a native of Ireland and was born in the County Cork, April 1, 1832.  He came to this section in 1853 and engaged in farming for miles south of Watertown, which occupation he followed for half a century.

 

He was elected clerk of the town in 1857, has served as justice of the peace, town chairman and coroner of the county.  He is probably the only man living in Wisconsin today who served in the assembly as far back as 1857.  He is still hale and hearty and can recite most of the political incidents in this section of the state since he first settled here in 1853, the year that Watertown was incorporated as a city.

 

Mr. Shinnick is the father of Mrs. David Mahoney, of Oak Grove, and is a frequent visitor at her home and in this city.

 

Arthur H. Kusel

09 10 1915

    Kusel, Arthur, b. 1875, d. 1915

 

Mr. Arthur H. Kusel died Monday afternoon at his home in Watertown, after an illness of several weeks.  His condition was critical for the past week and his demise was not unexpected.  Mr. Kusel was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Kusel and was born in Watertown, Nov. 17, 1874.  He was a tinner by occupation and was engaged in that employment until a year ago, when failing health compelled him to retire.  He is survived by his widow, his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Kusel, two brothers, Theodore Kusel and Walter Kusel, and one sister, Mrs. Paul Valerius, Chicago.  He was a member of Old Abe Aerie No. 1242, Fraternal Order of Eagles.  The funeral took place on Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock.  Services were in his late residence, 223 North Water Street.  The burial was in Oak Hill Cemetery.

 

Mrs. Peter Frattinger

10 01 1915

 

Mrs. Peter Frattinger of Watertown age 62 years, died quite suddenly Wednesday while on a visit in Chicago.  She was the mother of Mr. A. A. Frattinger and Mrs. O. C. Hahn of Watertown.

 

Case Adjourned

Watertown Leader, 09 10 1915

 

Wilbur McGovern, under bonds to answer to the charge of detaining Edna Kunert, a minor, from the custody of her father, appeared before Justice Schmutzler Friday afternoon for preliminary hearing.  The evidence of the state was concluded late in the afternoon, and after argument, Mayor C. A. Kading, appearing for the defendant, moved that the case be dismissed.  The motion was denied and the case was adjourned to Thursday, September 16.  Miss Kunert is now Mrs. Edmund Behlke. 

 

Waukesha Foundry Company

Watertown Daily Times, 08 27 1958

 

The local branch plant of the Waukesha Foundry Company again in 1957 achieved a perfect safety record, and at a dinner meeting held last night at the Legion Green Bowl a plaque was presented to the plant safety committee in recognition of this achievement.  It was presented by Clyde Zamjahn, personnel director of the committee, and was accepted by Al Hackbarth, local plant office manager, in behalf of the committee.  The local plant also was awarded a plaque for having achieved a perfect record in 1956.  It also was announced by Zamjahn that the record so far in 1958 also is perfect.

 

Watertown High School Stadium

Watertown Daily Times, 08 27 1998

 

The board of education Thursday evening is expected to advance plans for construction of a rest room at Watertown High School's Stadium.  The board's buildings and grounds committee last week agreed to advance a plan to hire an architect to update plans for the structure.  The board earlier this month voted to use $250,000 from the sale of the old high school for the rest room.  Members of the buildings and grounds committee supported hiring Bray Associates Architects of Sheboygan to complete the design work at a cost of $23,000.  Bray is the firm which designed the new high school.

 

Catherine Prendergast

01 05 1915

 

Mrs. Catherine Prendergast, a former resident of Watertown, died at the family home in Madison last Tuesday morning, Jan. 5 1915, at the age of 85 years.

 

She was the widow of Peter Prendergast, who died in Watertown many years ago, where the family lived for about 40 years before removing to Madison, where two of his sons are engaged in business, being members of the Madison Candy Company.

 

The deceased is survived by five children - James and Thomas of Madison, John of Milwaukee, and Catherine and Mary of Madison.  The funeral services will be held at Madison this morning, Jan. 8, 1915.

 

Cow Lost

Watertown Democrat, 10 07 1858

 

A white cow, with a little red spot on her forehead, red ears, one point of one of the horns broken, and a bell on her neck fasten with a wooden screw, strayed from the enclosure of the subscriber in the fifth ward of this city on the 5th.  Whoever will return said cow or give information where she may be found shall be liberally rewarded.  Antony Ferkel, Watertown.

 

Strayed

Watertown Democrat, 10 07 1858

 

Into the enclosure of the subscriber on the 1st, on the Milford Road, one mile south of Watertown, a white hog with black spots, about one year old.  The owner is requested to come and drove [herd] the property, pay charges and take him away, or he will be disposed of according to law.  Benjamin Graf

 

News Room

Watertown Democrat, 09 30 1858

 

The subscriber has opened a News Room in the building occupied by the Post Office [Democrat Block, Main St] where the latest Eastern papers, magazines and pictorials will always be found.  Harper’s Monthly, The Atlantic Magazine, Godey’s Ladies Book, The Knickerbocker, Harper’s Weekly, Ballou’s Pictorial, Frank Wesley’s Illustrated News, together with all the leading newspapers of the day will always be kept on hand.  Cigars, tobacco, fruit and candies will also be kept for the accommodation of all who desire these articles.  The patronage of the public is solicited.

 

October 23, 1858     John Miller

  More on News Room 

The News Depot

Watertown Democrat, 09 22 1859

 

Mr. John Miller has removed his News Depot from the Post Office to Thomas Moore’s Candy Store, where the latest magazines and papers can be obtained by all who want to purchase them.  Among the latest periodicals on his counter are Godey’s Lady’s Book for October and Harper’s Magazine—the last named of which is a brilliant and attractive number, superbly illustrated and cramped with choice and interesting reading.

 

Improving South First Street

Watertown Democrat, 10 07 1858

 

AN ORDINANCE—Providing for improving [South] First Street in the First Ward.  The Common Council of the City of Watertown do ordain as follows: 

 

Sec 1.  The Street Commissioners of the 1st ward of this city are hereby authorized and directed to improve First Street from Main to the south side of East Dodge Street in said 1st ward of said city, by covering said street with broken stone–similar to that in front of the Bank of Watertown on Main Street–for the width of twenty-four feet and to the depth of one foot in the center of said street and eight inches at each side thereof, so that when said improvement shall be completed, the center of said street will be on a line with the established grade of said street, and the gutters one foot lower than the center of said street . . .  H. Bertram, Mayor

 

Watertown and Madison Railroad Sale

Watertown Democrat, 10 07 1858

 

We learn that the Watertown and Madison Railroad was sold yesterday morning at 10 o’clock under foreclosure of the first mortgage.  Hon. Russel Sage of Troy, N.Y. was the purchaser.  We understand from reliable authority that it is Mr. Sage’s intention to go on with the work immediately, finishing the road up to Waterloo this fall and completing the whole line to Madison in time for the fall trade next year.  Mr. Sage has our good wishes in this laudable and useful undertaking and we are sure that the residents of the district through which it passes will not be wanting in the same.  We hope next fall to be able to join it in ovation to Mr. Sage which shall greet the successful accomplishment of his design [Madison Patriot newspaper].

  More on Watertown and Madison Railroad 

Watertown Democrat, 10 14 1858

 

The Watertown and Madison Railroad—We have reliable information, says the Madison Democrat of the 7th inst., that work on the line of this road will be resumed immediately.  The contractors are already engaged in organizing a force, which will be put to work on the line of this road and the enterprise vigorously prosecuted until it is brought to a successful termination.

 

It may be well to remind our readers that nearly all the grading is completed, nine miles of iron is already laid between the city of Watertown and Hanchettville [Marshall], and all the materials for construction are on the track.  We look upon this link of railroad, short as it is, as identified with the permanent interests of the Capitol.

  More on Watertown and Madison Railroad 

Watertown Democrat, 11 18 1858

 

We may note the fact, at a time when there are few public works going on anywhere, that there are now about 200 men busily and regularly employed on the line of the Watertown and Madison railroad.  The piling of Hog Island [Waterloo area, near St. Wenceslaus Church, the “Island Church”] will be completed within 10 days and the superstructure finished immediately.  When this is done there will be no obstacles to prevent laying the track and iron to Waterloo, thence onward to Hanchettville [west to Marshall].  The heaviest grading, as we have before stated, has already been done the whole distance of the road.  Favorable weather will enable the contractors to push their work forward with rapidity and nothing but unforeseen difficulties will delay it.  So much for railroad building [during] these hard times.  The probability that this will be the most used and best paying road in this State are the motives that have led to a resumption of work on it and will effect an immediate competition.

  More on Watertown and Madison Railroad 

Watertown Democrat, 12 09 1858

 

THE PILING OVER HOG ISLAND was finished last Monday, and the only impediment to laying the track beyond removed.  In less than ten days the locomotive will reach Waterloo on the rails, so rapidly is the iron being laid down.  As soon as the track can be extended to Hanchettville [Marshall], arrangements will be made to make a daily trip.  Even with a few miles of staging this will be by far the best route to Madison.

  More on Watertown and Madison Railroad 

Watertown Democrat, 12 30 1858

 

A trip to Waterloo, made a day or two since, served to give us a better idea than we had previously had as to the progress being made by the Watertown and Madison Railroad, and the effect its completion to that point is to have upon the business of the town, as well as upon the traffic of the Road.  Of late the work upon the latter, from some cause not understood by us, has not been pushed with as much energy as it might have been, and consequently there has been more delay than was anticipated in reaching Waterloo and will be still more in getting to Hanchettville, five miles beyond.  A new impetus was given the work on Monday last, and a large gang of men put upon the work so as to complete it, if possible, to Waterloo this week.  As there remained at that time but two miles and a half of track to be laid, it would seem that there could be no difficulty in accomplishing that and doing the necessary ballasting and other labor requisite to permit the running of trains.  The Waterloo people very naturally think and feel that it is one of the grandest events of the age—perhaps not quite equal to the laying of the Atlantic Cable—but still so important as to make theirs one of the best and smartest towns in the State.  As we felt just so upon the completion of the Milwaukee and Watertown Road to this place—and, indeed, as all other cities and towns feel as soon as they are put in communication with the world by rail—their anticipations and feelings can well be imagined, but hardly described.  But seriously, we see no reason why Waterloo should not be immensely benefitted by the road.  She is surrounded by a fine agricultural country on all sides and will be the market of quite an extension section, where produce will be sold and goods bought in large quantities.  This must add greatly to the traffic of the Railroad—passenger as well as freight—and prove as profitable to the owners of the Road as its completion will be gratifying to the people of Waterloo.

 

Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Railroad

Purchase of Railroad Iron

Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Railroad

Watertown Democrat, 09 08 1859

Next week another section of railroad will open from this city to the west.  The iron is so nearly laid between this city and Sun Prairie on the Watertown and Madison line that it is safe to say the track will be ready for the cars by the 15th of the present month, when regular trains will be put on, and that fine agricultural region have a direct communication with the lake there.  Twelve miles more—all of which is graded—will carry this road to Madison and that, as all know, this will be the shortest and best route between Milwaukee and the capitol. 

  More on Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley RR 

Watertown Democrat, 09 15 1859

 

Two trains a day are now running over the Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Railroad.  The track is now down in running order on the Madison line as far as Sun Prairie and soon as the turn tables can be constructed the cars will run regularly to that point.  This will give the farmers an opportunity to send their grain to market this way, an advantage that will enable them to get higher prices hereafter.

  More on Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley RR 

Watertown Democrat, 10 07 1858

 

The Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Railroad Company has purchased sufficient iron to lay their line from Columbus to the Wisconsin River, and as the track is pretty much all graded, will immediately begin to put it down and set the road in operation as far west as Leeds this season.  No road in this State is doing a better business than this and we see nothing to prevent its speedy extension into the fertile Baraboo Valley and ultimately to the “Father of Waters.”

  More on Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley RR 

Trip over the

Milwaukee, Watertown

and Baraboo Valley Railroad

 

1859 Drought

Watertown Democrat, 09 22 1859

   Reprint of article from the Milwaukee Sentinel of Sept. 16th, 1859

 

Letter from Watertown

 

Watertown, Wis., Sept. 13th, 1859

 

Editor of the Sentinel—A trip over the Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Railroad is one of the pleasantest to be had in Wisconsin.  This road does not run through any great extent of rich agricultural land, as do some others in that state, although a vast amount of such country is tributary to it.  The pleasantness of the ride lies in the goodliness of the scenery in the immediate vicinity of the road.

 

There is no prairie on the way, but otherwise the land is well diversified.  Hills, valleys, lakes, streams, oak openings, handsome farms and dense woods, forming an almost uninterrupted panorama of the simple charms of nature.

 

The foliage is losing its deep green, and the forests are already tinged with a pleasing variety of autumn colors.  The mild hazy atmosphere of Indian summer has for a few days hung lightly over the country hereabout.  Clouds of wild ducks go whistling over head, though at the voice of my gun, a few sometimes sail from the flock down to the earth, there to flutter about till their necks are twisted; while the frequent bang of better sportsmen, indicates the destruction of the finer sorts of game, which are more plenty this season then they have been before since 1855.  Immense numbers of grouse and quail perished in the two extremely severe winters following that year, and they have not multiplied enough until this season for it to be quite fair to shoot them.  There are but very few prairie chickens in the vicinity of this railroad.

 

The city of Watertown being one of the largest in the state, if not next in size to Milwaukee, claims attention first among the important points on this road.  Its population cannot be far from 9,000.  Its handsome streets and unusually large proportion of substantial buildings give it more of a real city aspect than any other interior town in the state can show. 

 

Text Box: Brick-makingCertainly none other is built of brick to so great an extent.  On Main Street—what an original name that is for the principal street of a town—about half the buildings are of brick, and many are first-rate large stores, doing a better business than in most places I have visited this year.  There are several brick yards here, supplying the city and all surrounding towns for a considerable distance.  The color is similar to the Milwaukee brick, and in quality it is nearly, if not quite, equal to the same.

 

The land around Watertown lies finely for the growth of the city; there are many rare sites for residences, several being already occupied with tasty dwellings—some elegant ones.  There can hardly be a prettier broad slope anywhere, than that toward Rock River right east of the city [slope rising up from Concord Ave], as seen by entering town on the Milwaukee plank road. 

 

The lakes and streams so numerous along this railroad are remarkable low, in consequence of the long dismal drought.  This is the twelfth year I have known them, but have not seen them so sadly used up before.  Even Rock River, one of the great streams of the west, has so little water that the mills here cannot grind more than two or three bushels an hour.  It has not been so low since white men have known it until now.  It has always been considered one of the most reliable water-powers to be found.  Its great descent and peculiar course through Watertown make it available to an indefinite degree beyond its present sue.  It makes a complete turn in passing through the city; and for a large part of the way is very rapid, presenting a scene of some little attraction.

 

Here five flouring mills, eight saw mills, a linseed oil mill, wool factory, sash, door and blind factories, and machine shops, most of them in successful operation, waiting only for the usual abundance of water to do a great amount of work on hand.

 

Watertown is lighted with gas, has military and fire companies, and other city necessities, well kept up.  John W. Cole’s Hall is a convenient and spacious one—the largest one here, and will answer the wants of the city for many years to come.  The Planter’s Hotel, with A. F. Cady for its keeper, is as good a house as any traveler need find.  The Watertown Democrat, edited by D. W. Ballou, Jr., is one of the best weeklies in the state.  It is sufficient evidence of its ability to say, that since its establishment five years ago, five other papers—and I don’t know but more—have had their day and passed from the stage, leaving the Democrat alone in its glory.  One of the principal reasons of its success, I think, is that Mr. Ballou gives more attention and space to local matters than is usual with country papers.  That department, well conducted, is always appreciated.

 

The Young Men’s Association is an organization of great merit and interest, as I am convinced by attending one of its meetings and looking through its rooms.

 

There is, perhaps, a larger proportion of Germans here than in any other place of its size in the west.  In no other city that I have visited does this class of our citizens appear to better advantage than here.  Among them are a goodly share of the leading men to the city, and many of the best business men, all so devoted to the good of the community, that it would be difficult to make any distinction between the German and the American element.  Two German papers are published here, one Republican and the other Democrat.  The Democrat, already spoken of, is the only paper printed in English in this place. 

 

Lots of people are leaving here today for the United States Fair at Chicago.

 

Watertown possesses railroad facilities not surpassed by those of any other interior town in the west.  The Southern Division of the Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Railroad branches off at this point and is now in operation to Sun Prairie, twelve miles east of Madison.  The Northern Division has been open to Columbus a year or two.  Great quantities of wheat are now passing over the road to Milwaukee and since Mr. Merrill has been superintendent, I believe it has done a very fair business.  He and his management are certainly much liked at every place on the railroad.

 

Trains are now running on the Chicago and North Western Railway between this city and Oshkosh and in a few days the road all be in operation to Jefferson.  It is expected to be opened through from Chicago to Oshkosh by November 1st.  Watertown will then have the choice of two great markets for trade—Milwaukee and Chicago.

 

Nym Crinkle  

Wheeler, Andrew Carpenter ( Nym Crinkle ) (1835- )

  More on 1859 Drought 

Rains Almost Daily

Watertown Democrat, 09 22 1859

 

The equinoctial storms [violent storms of wind and rain occurring at or near the time of the equinox] have not been very violent this season, but during the past week we have had rains almost daily.  These showers will be beneficial but if they could have come in July and August, they would have made a difference of millions of dollars in the value of the products of this state.  Corn, potatoes and vegetables of every variety would have been far better and plentiful.  Even as it is, however, we have no reason to complain.  They will be bread enough for all.

 

Keck & Lehmann

Watertown Democrat, 10 07 1858

 

Cabinet Ware Rooms in their new block, 2d story, corner of Main and Third streets.  The subscribers announce to their friends and the public generally that they have removed their entire and extensive stock to the second story of their new Brick Block on the corner of Main and Third streets.  They have now manufactured and ready a large stock of the most fashionable and elegant articles of Cabinet Ware and Upholstery, consisting of Sofas, Bureaus and Bedsteads of every kind, from the most common to the most valuable.  Washstands, Mattresses, Lounges, Rocking Chairs, Gilt Moldings two cents per foot cheaper than heretofore, Fancy and Center Tables, Looking Glasses, Congress and Cane Bottom Chairs . . .  1856

  More on Keck & Lehmann 

Watertown Gazette, 05 26 1859

 

Common Council Proceedings:  Resolved, That the Mayor be authorized to give notice to Keck and Lehmann that the lease between them and the city for Lock-up has expired and that said city has no further use of said room.  Adopted.

  More on Keck & Lehmann 

Dissolution

Watertown Democrat, 04 12 1860

 

The co-partnership heretofore existing between the undersigned, under the firm name of Keck & Lehmann, is this day dissolved by mutual consent.  Creditors and debtors of the above firm are requested to call at the old stand for settlement within thirty days, with either of the undersigned.

 

T. Keck

E. Lehmann

Watertown, April 5, 1860.

 

Daniel Hall, Esq

Watertown Democrat, 10 07 1858

 

We learn that the Executive Committee has invited Daniel Hall, Esq. to deliver a lecture before the Young Men’s Association of this city . . . on the subject of Astronomy . . . a more appropriate theme for a popular address could hardly be selected and we are sure Mr. Hall has the ability and means to discuss in a way that will be both interesting and instructive.  It is a study to which he has heretofore had occasion to give the attention necessary to qualify him to present the outlines of the grandest of all sciences in a way at once pleasing and intelligible.

  More on Young Men's Association 

Watertown Democrat, 10 14 1858

 

Our citizens should bear in mind the lecture before the Young Men's Association next Monday evening by Daniel Hall, Esq., at the Congregational Church.  As this is the first of the series, the attendance should be such as will encourage the efforts that are now being made to have a full course during the approaching winter. 

 

While we are on this subject, we are half inclined to throw out a suggestion to the Directors of this Association, though they may need no advice from us.  While in Madison a short time since, Chancellor Barnard of the State University, delivered a brilliant and finished address to a crowded house on "The Culture of the Soul and the Soil," which might be profitably repeated here and everywhere.  We presume he would accept an invitation to lecture in this city, and a better choice could hardly be made at this early stage of the lecture season.  Nobody could listen to that production without benefit.

  More on Young Men's Association 

Watertown Democrat, 11 11 1858

 

Permit me through the columns of your paper to call the attention of the citizens, and especially the young men of this city, to the fact that the Young Men’s Association is now in a healthy and flourishing condition, and that hereafter no pains will be spared on the part of the directors to make it what it should be—an attractive place for all who wish to become its patrons.

 

Although there it is quite a large attendance at the reading room every evening, there is still room for many more, and the simple announcement of the facts in relation to the institution should be sufficient to awaken a more general interest and lead a large number of young men to embrace so excellent an opportunity of storing their minds with lessons of practical wisdom drawn from the perusal of a list of the best of locations of this, as well as foreign countries, taken by the Association.

 

There it is no medium through which so much valuable and practical knowledge can be obtained on all subjects that relate to the welfare of the country and the good of the human race and that so deeply interests the masses as that of the leading newspapers of the present day.  And it is hardly possible to believe that any young man can be so insensible to his highest interest as to neglect any means that would lead him to acquire a knowledge of all the important events that are almost daily transpiring.

 

In order and for the purpose of placing these advantages within the reach of every young man in this city, the Young Men’s Association was formed.  And there are none that cannot forgo the trifling consideration required in order to become a member and entitled to all its benefits.  We have a constantly increasing library and are in receipt of all the leading Daily, Semi-Weekly and Weekly newspapers published in the United States.  Also the leading Reviews published in this as well as re-publications of foreign countries.  During the coming winter there will be a course of lectures delivered before the Association, to which every member is entitled to admittance free.

 

The importance of this institution cannot be too highly appreciated by the community, and it is desirable that a general interest should be manifested towards its hearty support.

 

Notice

Watertown Democrat, 10 14 1858

 

Whereas Mirian my wife, has left my bed and board without any just provocation, this is therefore to forbid all persons harboring or trusting her on my account as I shall pay no debts of her contracting after this date.

 

James Cory, Watertown, October 13th, 1858.

 

Chicago, St. Paul and Fond du Lac Railroad

Watertown Democrat, 10 14 1858

 

Measures are in progress which there is the best reason to believe will lead to the completion of the section of the Chicago, St. Paul and Fond du Lac Railroad, lying between the Watertown and the La Crosse Junction.  When this is done, and the road under consideration is in operation, it will furnish the means of communication with the northeastern portion of our State that will render the Capitol so easily accessible that the people of that growing district will have no desire to see it transferred to any less convenient point.  We shall soon be a railroad center from which our long lines of iron will radiate to every point of our favorite commonwealth, and enable us to travel anywhere and everywhere with all the rapidity with which the Iron Horse sweeps his way.

 

Fire Protection for Rural Townships Watertown

Watertown Daily Times, 08 14 1958

 

The City Council last night took the first steps toward entering into new terms of contracts with the rural townships Watertown serves with fire protection.  The action was taken to explore the possibility of reaching new agreements under which the townships will pay a more equitable share of the cost of fire protection.  The issue was first raised some time ago by Council President Charles E. Kading in an article he prepared for “The Council Corner,” which is published in the Times from time to time and in which he set forth his views on the subject of better distribution of fire protection costs.

 

419 S. Washington Street Fire

Watertown Daily Times, 05 21 2008

 

It turns out that dogs really are a man's best friend.  A man who was sleeping when a fire broke out Tuesday in the kitchen of a home located at 419 S. Washington St. was awoken and notified of the blaze by his dog, according to Watertown Fire Department Chief Henry Butts.  "There were working smoke detectors in the home, but the man said he fell asleep on the couch and the dog woke him up and alerted him to the fire," Butts said.  The fire department was notified of the structure fire at 1:09 p.m. and arrived at the scene at 1: 12 p.m.  "We arrived to find a two-story brick house with smoke showing from the rear of the house," Butts said.  Firefighters started attacking the fire at 1: 15 p.m. and were able to have the flames under control at 1: 16 p.m.  The blaze was extinguished at 1:55 p.m.  Butts said 14 firefighters helped extinguish the blaze. The fire was contained to the kitchen area and damages are estimated at $20,000.  Butts said the blaze in the kitchen was caused by boiling water igniting tea bags. "He was boiling tea actually on the stove and when he fell asleep the water boiled out and then the tea bags caught on fire," Butts added.  The resident was outside of the home when the fire department arrived at the scene.

 

Appeal for Book Donations for Library

Watertown Democrat, 10 14 1858

 

The Directors of the Young Men's Association are now making a praiseworthy effort to collect together the books that belong to their Library in order to ascertain what works they now have.  All who have volumes or numbers of magazines owned by this institution will confer a favor by returning them without delay. 

 

Why would it not be a good idea for every one who has a borrowed book to take the present occasion and ascertain who is its rightful owner and requite the kindness of the confiding lender by once more restoring it to him?  If this were done, we know of one small library that would gain about sixty volumes, now scattered here and there, and some broken sets of valuable works be filled.  Who will set the good example?

 

Fire at Hubbelville

Watertown Democrat, 10 14 1858

 

FIRE—A destructive fire occurred at Hubbelville [Hubbleton] on Thursday last, destroying two dwelling houses and personal property to quite an extent.  The fire occurred on the premises owned by Wm. H. Bourne and broke out in the house occupied by Oswald Seigel.  It was not long in communicating to an adjoining building, as the wind was blowing strongly at the time, and both were soon leveled to the ground.  The steam saw mill and blacksmith shop on the same premises were in great danger and probably would have burned but for the extraordinary efforts made by the citizens to save them.  Mr. Seigel’s loss, also, will be felt severely as he saved but few of his personal effects and lost besides quite an amount in bank bills, which were all his savings from many years of hard, industrious toil.

 

Radway's Ready Relief

Watertown Democrat, 10 14 1858

 

The wonderful discoveries brought to light by the celebrated Dr. Radway & Co., the eminent Chemists of New York, within the past quarter of a century, have contributed more to the care, comfort, safety, health and longevity of the human race than all other medical agents in use.

 

These discoveries are but Lesser Lights to the Great, Grand Discovery recently made and which is calculated to revolutionize the present practice of medicine and treatment of disease.  The result of this great discovery is given to the world in the form of pills elegantly coated with Gum, so as not to offend the most delicate stomachs.  They neither sicken nor gripe.  Every dose that is taken imparts renewed strength and vigor to the sick and enfeebled body.  They are called Radway's Regulating Pills.

 

Letter from Mr. Sweeney

Watertown Democrat, 10 21 1858

 

LETTER FROM MR. SWEENEY

WATERTOWN, October 18th, 1858.

To the Editor of the Watertown Democrat:

 

Sir–I beg leave through the columns of your paper to brand as a willful and malicious fabrication a report which has been put in circulation among my Democratic friends in Dodge County.  The report is this, that I have received money from Hon. Charles Billinghurst as a consideration for my vote and influence at the ensuing election in favor of that gentleman.  The author of this report, as I am informed, is a person who has heretofore endeavored to injure me.  The mention of his name would be sufficient to satisfy all who know him that anything which he may say of any person or thing is more likely to be false than true, and all who are aware of the peculiar manner in which he discharged the duties of Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors from August 29th 1856 to November 11th 1856, must be satisfied that where my name, or any other Irish name, or interests are concerned, a blunder, a fraud or a lie should not be unexpected.  He is the person, who, as my deputy, settled with the Board in 1856.  I was here in Watertown at the time and did not think for a moment that my deputy and the board could possibly make such a mistake, in fact a blundering fraudulent "settlement" as the record shows they did make, overlooking receipts, redeemed certificates, voucher, etc., or concealing them to the amount of seven hundred and fifty dollars.

 

My present slanderer, then and there acting as my deputy, figured me in debt to the county eleven hundred dollars—for which good service and an oyster supper to the board, the board paid two hundred and fifty dollars.  These crooked proceedings were made straight and correct so far as they related to the county, by the board of 1857; but not to me, except the passing of a resolution directing the District Attorney to discontinue proceedings against me and declaring in effect that it was the Deputy Clerk who was blameworthy in the matter, and not me.

 

Democratic friends, you know, or should know—everybody in Dodge County knows—that Juneau has been for some years a kind of refuge for the broken down and discarded of other sections of the State.  The trade of Deputy has been a thriving one in that village, and at the late County Convention matters were so managed that the Deputies selected their Principals as Candidates.  My slanderer by such arrangement is now really the Democratic candidate for Register of Deeds, for although another man was nominated and will be voted for, yet it is he of Settlement notoriety who will hold the office of course, as Deputy if the Principal is elected.  This state of things is very unsatisfactory, a nuisance in fact that should not be tolerated because it excludes good men from ever getting an office; but they tell us electing them cannot be avoided without risking the success of the Democratic ticket, for it is well known that each of the German deputies at Juneau controls several thousand German votes in different parts of Dodge County which would be lost forever to the Democratic party if they one and all cannot be deputies.

 

As to the slander referred to, I have only to repeat that it is a willful and malicious fabrication without a shadow of truth to sustain it.  I have never received anything from any candidate of any party, but on the contrary, I have spent money and time for the success of the Democratic Party.  Mr. Billinghurst has not even asked me for my support; he expects his election from the free untrammeled electors of his own party and from friends in any other.

 

Yours truly, EDMOND SWEENEY

 

Moses Schwab

Bashford & Co's Block, next to Planter's Hotel

Watertown Democrat, 10 21 1858

$10,000 WORTH OF WINTER CLOTHING

just received and on hand at the extensive

Clothing Emporium,

In Bashford & Co's Brick Block, next to Planter's Hotel.

 

The undersigned would respectfully announce to the citizens of this city and surrounding country,

that he has just received the largest and best selected assortment of Winter Clothing

ever brought to this city—consisting in part of ready-made

Over and Under Coats, Pants, Vests, Shirts, Collars, etc., for men's and boy's wear.

 

Our Custom Department.

 

We invite particular attention to our large stock of Fine and Heavy Over-coatings,

Broadcloths, Doeskins, Cassimeres and Plush, Velvets and Silk Vestings.

 

Having an experienced cutter, who has catered to the tastes of the most fastidious for many years,

we feel confident of suiting all who may favor us with their orders.

 

Our assortment of Gents Finding Goods is complete,

comprising every article necessary for the winter season.

 

To those requiring goods in our line, we say come—give us a call—as we are determined all shall be suited.

 

M. B. SCHWAB   [Moses]     /     Watertown, October 20, 1858

  More on Bashford & Co's Block 

Lightning Strike

Watertown Democrat, 07 19 1860

 

Yesterday morning, during the thunder storm that visited us, the lightning struck the chimney of the southwest corner of Cady & Basford’s block, and pretty effectually shattered and shivered it, doing little other damage.  The current passed down the outside of the building with sufficient violence to loosen the plaster in some places on the inside.

 

Myriads of Ducks

Watertown Democrat, 10 21 1858

 

HUNTERS are now having fine times among the myriads of ducks that now flock to our streams and lakes.  Braces of canvas backs or mallards can be bought most any day in our streets for a trifle.

 

Tall Corn

Watertown Democrat, 10 28 1858

 

Mr. Henry Wilson of Farmington has sent to our office some splendid specimens of unusually tall corn.  One stock [stalk] towered up fifteen feet, full measure, and another, though not so lofty, was remarkable from the fact that it was loaded with seven large full ears of ripe corn—every kernel mature and in its place.  They were objects worth looking at and good samples of what can be done in the way of growing maze in this State.

 

Circuit Court of Jefferson County

Watertown Democrat, 10 28 1858

 

State vs. Minor.  District Attorney for State, Messrs. Baird and Skinner for defendant.  This cause came up on appeal and was on complaint for assault and battery by defendant on his child by punishing him with a raw hide.  The proof showed conclusively that the punishment was such as the parent had the most perfect legal right to inflict.  The law was fully maintained by his acquittal.

 

Judge Dixon

Watertown Democrat, 10 28 1858

 

Judge Dixon was little known in this county [Jefferson].  He has presided with eminent ability and impartiality.  He brings to the decision of every question a thorough legal knowledge and a manly integrity which command universal confidence and admiration.  No finer sight was ever witnessed in a court room than when in some exciting case he comes to charge the jury.  His eye is bright and beams with intelligence and truth.  All are intent upon what he says and a breathless stillness reigns throughout the house.  His first words are words of peace to contending passions.  He lays down the law applicable to the case, in a few weighty and impartial sentences, and when the jury returns with their verdict it shows that his charge has not been forgotten—justice has triumphed.

 

A Large Yield of Potatoes

Watertown Democrat, 10 28 1858

 

Mr. James Lane has presented us with a bushel of the Black Meshannock variety of potatoes raised by him this season.  Starting with one single potato for seed, in three plantings, on a piece of land 118 feet long by 58, he has grown fifty-six bushels, which is at the rate of about seven hundred bushels to the acre.  From so small a beginning this may be considered an extraordinary increase.  They are fine, large, sound, and as an article of food, admirable, no matter how cooked.

 

Destruction of a Daguerreotype

Watertown Democrat, 10 28 1858

 

CIRCUIT COURT OF JEFFERSON COUNTY—State vs. Defendant.  District Attorney for State, J. J. Enos for defendant.  Indictment for the willful and malicious destruction of a daguerreotype [early photograph produced on chemically treated plates of metal or glass].  Defendant convicted and fined $50.00.

 

Axioms of the Time

Watertown Democrat, 10 28 1858

 

- Blushing is said to be a sign that something of the angel is left in a woman, beautiful to the eye and bespeaking the inward purity of the heart.  When a woman ceases to blush she has lost her greatest charm.

- The more ladies practice walking, the more graceful they become in their movements.  Those ladies acquire the best carriage who don’t use one.

- Talk not so much of thy duties.  Life is short.  The time allotted us for action and achievement is hurrying to the ocean of eternity.

- It is vain to stick your finger in the water and, pulling it out, look for a hole; and equally vain to suppose that, however large a space you occupy, the world will miss you when you die.