This file part of www.watertownhistory.org website

 

Miscellaneous set

 

Bob and Anne Krystyniak

Watertown Daily Times, 04 16 1999

 

Bob and Anne Krystyniak, owners of Watertown Ace Hardware, are recipients of the Rotary Community Achievement Award for their many contributions to the community through work, civic activities and other means.  It is the first year for this award which is being presented in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Watertown Rotary Club.

 

1959 City Council

Watertown Daily Times, 04 20 1959

 

Fred Kehl last night was elected president of the city council at the council's organization meeting.  He succeeds Attorney Charles Kading, who was not a candidate for re-election to the council.  Kehl received five votes and Councilman Shephard, two votes.  Andrew McFarland, new council member, placed Kehl's name in nomination.  Shephard was nominated by Ray Franz, also a new council member.  Councilman Ed Hinterberg was unanimously elected vice president.

 

Karma Corporation

Watertown Daily Times, 04 18 1984

 

FORT ATKINSON - Karma Corporation of Watertown was named the Opportunities Inc. Employer of the Year during the seventh annual recognition banquet Thursday evening at The Fireside in Fort Atkinson.  Formerly a division of Brandt Inc., Karma was purchased last year by its management group.  It has been in Watertown since 1970, currently occupying a 36,000-square-foot building on Milford Street and employing about 30 people.  In addition to hiring Opportunities graduates, the firm also helps with interviews and job tryouts.

 

Watertown Memorial Hospital's

Suit against the State

Watertown Daily Times, 04 06 1984

 

Watertown Memorial Hospital's board of directors is tentatively planning to join in a suit against the state of Wisconsin which has ordered the hospital to cease offering mobile CT scans, effective April 16.  The mobile CT scanning service has been available in Watertown since Oct. 4, 1983.  Hospital officials checked with the state prior to that time to determine if a certificate of need was required by the hospital because it was not purchasing the equipment.  State officials told the hospital board that it did not have to make application for the certificate.  On Jan. 1 of this year, the state changed its rules and now requires the provider to make application for approval of a certificate.  As a result, Leo Bargielski, president of the hospital association, said the state has ordered the mobile scanning service stopped in Watertown, effective April 16, and it cannot be resumed until MCIC (Medical Consultants Imaging Corp. of Cleveland, Ohio) makes application for a certificate of need and it is approved by the state.

 

Exalted Ruler

Watertown Daily Times, 03 25 1959

 

W. F. (Joe) Simon last night was elected exalted ruler of the Watertown Elks Lodge, No. 666.  He succeeds Earl Maas.  Glenn Ferry, city clerk, was elected Leading Knight; William Lloyd Meyer, Lecturing Knight Fitzgerald Jr., Loyal Knight; Lloyd Meyer, Lecturing Knight; and Frank Semon, Tyler. Christie Coogan and E. F. Lemmerhirt were re-elected secretary and treasurer, respectively.  The new exalted ruler is fifth grade teacher at Douglas School.

 

Feed Your Brain

Watertown Daily Times, 03 25 1999

 

It's after school on a Thursday and two dozen Riverside Middle School students head out their classroom doors - and continue on to the cafeteria.  It's not the typical after-school exit for young teens, but one that's becoming more common with the help of a student-designed program called Feed Your Brain.  Using food as a lure to the students, Feed Your Brain offers a place to do homework, as well as volunteers to offer help.  While after-school homework often mixes with just as much after-school conversation, it's a safe and supervised place for students to hang out while waiting for parents to come home from work.  Or for some students with large families, it's much quieter than home.

 

New Police Facility Proposed

on Watertown High School Land

Watertown Daily Times, 04 03 1999

 

The Watertown Common Council approved an option Monday that would allow construction of a new police facility at the southwest corner of the Watertown High School land.  Under the transfer agreement with the school district, the city has the option to use the 8 1/2-acre parcel for a police department.  That option expires in 2002. If nothing is done with the parcel by then, it reverts back to the school district.

 

School Age Mother (SAM) Program

Watertown Daily Times, 04 29 1984

 

A child care center at Watertown High School would have to be self-supporting or Principal W. Charles Dill wouldn't even consider it.  Dill is seeking permission from the Watertown School Board to investigate the possibility of operating a School Age Mother (SAM) program which would include a day care center for children of student mothers.  He is concerned about the 20 pregnant girls currently at the high school.  He believes a SAM program at Watertown High School could serve an important role in dealing with problems associated with teenage pregnancy such a dropouts, failed marriages, child abuse and increased welfare costs.  The SAM program would consist of the child care center and a required instructional program for school age mothers and fathers.  It would help keep these students in school, where required instruction in music skills and vocational training would prepare them to become successful members rather than wards of the community and where they would learn how to deal with the traumas of child care and parenting.  The center would also provide hands-on experience for students in regular child care classes.  Dill stressed that he is asking the school board for approval to investigate, not to implement, a SAM program.

 

St. Luke's Building Permit

Watertown Daily Times, 05 01 1959

 

The largest single building permit to be approved in the city in April and the first major building project so far this year, calls for an estimated expenditure of $170,000.  The permit has been granted to St. Luke's Lutheran congregation which is constructing a new church and parsonage in the Seventh Ward.  The application was signed by Arthur W. Griebenow, acting as agent.  Ground for the new church edifice was broken at ceremonies recently.  The Wisconsin Telephone Co., which has an option to purchase St. Luke's present property in North Fourth Street for a city parking lot site and which proposes to acquire from the city the present South Fifth Street parking lot so it can expand its adjacent telephone plant, is due to submit a plan and sketches for the use of St. Luke's property with city council members at their committee meeting next Monday.

 

1999 Junior Prom

Watertown Daily Times, 05 01 1999

 

Watertown High School's junior prom held Saturday at the school drew 461 young people, many of whom followed the evening's dance with a party at the Watertown Elks Club.  At prom, parents crowded the commons area to watch the grand march, where the court was introduced.  Queen this year was Abby Kuehl, escorted by King Justin Munzel. Court members were Mark Simon, Cody Stratman, Andrew Aschenbrenner, Mike Jaquet, Brittani Phillips, Krista Ewert, Angela Martin, Shaun Finley, Mindy Busshardt, Katie Krueger, Sara Cahoon and Jonah Salas.

 

Fourth of July, 1859

Watertown Democrat, 06 02 1859

 

A regular meeting of the Young Men’s Association was held at the Reading Room.  The propriety of celebrating the 4th of July next was discussed and after due consideration the following resolutions are adopted unanimously:

 

Resolved, That the Young Men’s Association celebrate the approaching anniversary of our National Independence by reading of the Declaration, oration and music, or in such manner as may be determined upon by the Association, or a committee appointed for that purpose.

 

Resolved, That the committee consist of the following named gentlemen:  F. E. Shandrew, T. Moore, Amos Baum, Henry Bertram and Myron H. Reed.

 

Resolved, That the committee be requested to invite Hiram Barber, Jr., of this city, to deliver the oration on the Fourth of July next, at such time and place as the committee may designate.

  More on Fourth of July, 1859   

Watertown Democrat, 06 16 1859

 

COMMON COUNCIL:  Ald. Shandrew presented a communication from the Young Men’s Association in regard to the approaching anniversary of our national independence and offered the following resolution:  Resolved, That this Council appropriate and place at the disposed of the Committee of Arrangements the sum of $200.00 to aid in defraying the expense of celebrating the coming 4th of July.  Ald. Davis moved to insert $100.00 in place of $200.00.  Ald. Rogan moved that the aldermen pay the amount out of their own pockets.  The ayes and nays having been called for, those who voted in the affirmative were 4, nays 5.

  More on Fourth of July, 1859   

Watertown Democrat, 06 30 1859

 

INDEPENDENCE BALL:  July 4th, 1859, Cole’s Hall.  The undersigned has made arrangements for a grand entertainment to which he invites all who desire to close the celebration of our National Anniversary by a supper and ball.  He has engaged the Washington Band of Milwaukee (twelve instruments) and will furnish a good supper in the long room below the ball room.  Ball will open at 8 o’clock P.M.  Supper from 10 to 12 o’clock.  Ball tickets including supper $1.25.  C. B. Baumann, Proprietor.

  More on Fourth of July, 1859   

“Hail Columbia, Happy Land”

Watertown Democrat, 06 30 1859

 

The arrangements for the celebration of the coming Fourth of July in this city are all completed and the prospects are that we will have “a high old time.”  The committee having the matter in charge, have been indefatigable in their efforts to complete such a program that everybody should be satisfied and old-fashioned jollification the result.  We hope to see the people from the surrounding towns turn out and join us in celebrating, in an appropriate manner, the day whose anniversary all patriotic citizens delight to honor . . . The orators of the day are Hiram Barber, Jr., and John B. Engleman—both of them capable of entertaining any audience and depicting in glowing colors the trials and tribulations through which our forefathers passed, for the purpose of gaining the liberty we now enjoy.  Let us all turn out and show by our acts that we appreciate the priceless boon we have thus inherited.

 

J. J. Enos

Election to Office of

Commissioner of Schools

Watertown Democrat, 06 02 1859

 

To the Mayor and Common Council:  On being officially notified of my election to the office of Commissioner of Schools [2nd ward] . . . I immediately filed with the city clerk my oath of office.  At the first regular meeting of the Board of Education after my appointment [I claimed] the right to take part in the proceedings of said Board by virtue of my appointment, which the Board refused.  The action of the Board presents the important question to the electors and taxpayers of the city; whether you, upon whom the law imposes the duty, or the Board itself, are to determine who shall be its members.  In other words, can the Board of Education, in defiance of law, so perpetuate their power until such time as they choose to relinquish it? . . .  Your Obedient Servant, J. J. Enos.

 

COMMON COUNCIL:  Resolved, believing the said Board acted hastily and without sufficient consideration, that their President be requested to immediately convene said Board and to admit the said Jacob J. Enos to his seat therein, as a matter of justice.

  More on Board of Education   

Watertown Democrat, 06 02 1859

 

It is to be regretted that this difference [to admit J. J. Enos to the Board of Education] exists between the Common Council and a majority of the members of the Board of Education; it is unpleasant as well as detrimental to the interests of the city to have one of its departments arrayed against the other.  The prosperity of our schools and the educational interests of the city generally suffer by it . . . A board thus constituted, their own members not harmonizing in order to effect the objects of their creation, can be of little service to the city, or to the cause of education, and the sooner a reorganization of its members takes place, the more prosperous will be our schools and the satisfactory it will be to our citizens.

 

The committee therefore recommend that charges be preferred against all members of the Board of Education that composed the Board ending April, 1859 (and who are still in office) for neglecting or refusing to report to the Common Council as provided by law; also for not presenting the contingent expenses of the Board to the Common Council to be audited before payment.

  More on Board of Education   

Watertown Democrat, 06 09 1859

 

The last two numbers of our paper have been so largely occupied with the controversy which has unfortunately arisen between the Common Council and the Board of Education, as to who is the rightful School Commissioner of Second Ward, that almost everything else has been excluded.  There any many subjects, general and local, which should find a place in our columns today, which we are compelled to pass by.  We shall attend to them hereafter.  Having now, at some inconvenience, given both sides an impartial hearing, we hope neither party will have occasion to claim any more or our space in officially discussing a question that seems to have been pretty thoroughly investigated.  Whatever of principle is involved in this difference of opinion and action must be settled elsewhere; the sooner the better for all concerned. --Watertown Democrat.

  More on Board of Education   

Watertown Democrat, 06 09 1859

 

It seems as if [the Common Council] had studiously endeavored to make the taxpayers of this city believe that we [Board of Education] have been squandering the money devoted to the instruction of the youth.  Figures do not lie.  The books show that the expenses of this Board during the last school year were $449.53 less than those of the preceding year, while the average attendance of scholars upon the school during the last year is over a hundred more.  This reduction in the expenditures has been effected in part by paying less wages to some of the primary teachers but principally by an economical management of our contingent expenses.  We have purchased no carpeting nor linen towels with the people’s money, nor appropriated $25.00, nor any other sum, to defray the expenses of an institute for the benefit of teachers, nor have we appropriated it to the Superintendent to pay the expenses of taking the teachers to a distant place to attend a convention for their own benefit and amusement . . . The present Superintendent has also furnished his own stationary and that for the Board at his own expense; nor has any charge been made for wood, lights or rent furnished to the Board.

  More on Board of Education   

Charles R. Gill

Removed from Office

Watertown Democrat, 06 23 1859

 

PUBLIC MEETING:  Whereas a spirit of malice and vindictiveness has been evinced by a majority of the Common Council in waging a warfare against the School Board of this city and particularly against Charles R. Gill, the Superintendent of Schools, in unlawfully and unjustly removing him from that office . . . Resolved, That William M. Dennis, Patrick Rogan and Calvin B. Skinner, Mayor of the city, in presenting and causing to be published the charges preferred against the Board of Education before they had an opportunity of defending themselves against them, were actuated by malicious and vindictive motives and caused the same to be published for the purpose of prejudicing the public against the School Board; and said proceedings instead of being instituted for the public good were designed to make in favor of themselves, political capital, by injuring the character of the members of the School Board. 

 

Resolved, That the official conduct of Charles R. Gill meets with unqualified approval—that he has done no act which called for his removal from office and that we regard said removal as being unjust, unlawful . . .

  More on Board of Education   

Watertown Democrat, 06 23 1859

 

PUBLIC MEETING:  Resolved, that the Aldermen who voted for the removal of Charles R. Gill from the office of Superintendent of Schools are unworthy of the confidence and respect of the citizens and unfit to hold the office or to represent the citizens in said Council, and that by resigning said office it would meet the approval of the citizens generally. 

 

Resolved, That Peter Seaburg, Charles Beckman, Charles Jacobi and Myron B. Williams, in the discharge of their duties as members of the School Board, are worthy of the unqualified approval of the citizens. 

 

Resolved, That those members of the Common Council who voted against the removal of said Superintendent evinced thereby a disinterested fairness which entitles them to the respect and confidence of the citizens.

  More on Board of Education   

Watertown Democrat, 06 23 1859

 

COMMON COUNCIL:  By Ald. Rogan.  Whereas charges having been preferred to the Common Council of the City of Watertown against Charles R. Gill, Superintendent of Schools of said City, and due notice and opportunity having been given to said Gill to appear before said Council and make his defense, and whereas in the opinion of this Council due cause exists for the removal of said Gill from said office for official misconduct.

 

Therefore, Resolved that the said Charles R. Gill be and he is hereby removed from the office of Superintendent of Schools of the City of Watertown and said office of Superintendent of Schools is hereby declared to be vacant, whereupon the ayes and nays having been called for, those voting in the affirmative were 10, those voting in the negative were 5.

  More on Charles Gill 

Watertown Democrat, 09 08 1859

 

COMMON COUNCIL:  The clerk read a mandamus from the Supreme Court reinstating Chas. R. Gill to the office of School Superintendent for the city of Watertown.  Resolved, That the proceedings of the Common Council of the 18th of June last, removing Charles R. Gill from the office of School Superintendent of the city of Watertown, be and the same are hereby rescinded.

  More on Charles Gill 

Watertown Democrat, 08 18 1859

 

School Superintendent.  By a telegraphic dispatch received in this city yesterday from Madison we learn that the Supreme Court have decided against the legality of the proceedings of the [Watertown] Common Council in removing Charles R. Gill, Esq., from the office of City Superintendent of Schools.  This puts at rest a much vexed question and one over which a good deal of feeling and excitement has been manifested.

 

Ice Cream Season

Watertown Democrat, 06 02 1859

 

The ice cream season has at last arrived, and as was to be expected, Peter F. Brook is ready with a full supply of this delicate and agreeable evening repast, made and flavored as he well knows how to prepare it, that is in the best style.  This evening he commences the summer entertainment, by offering to the public the first installment of the choice and good things he has in preparation for them.  We bespeak for him hosts of customers in his cool and pleasant rooms over the river, who will duly appreciate his efforts to gratify their taste.  If he cannot please we do not know who can, for he makes it a point to have the first and choicest of everything.

 

Special Police,

or Night Watch

Watertown Democrat, 06 02 1859

 

COMMON COUNCIL:  Resolved, That the Mayor be and he is requested to appoint a Special Police, or night watch, if he shall think it best for the safety of the city, in such numbers as he may think proper, at not more than one dollar for each person, per night, for said services.  Adopted

  More on Special Police   

Rowdyism

Watertown Democrat, 08 11 1859

 

Our city is now infested with a gang of night prowlers whose business is stealing while honest people are sleeping.  Several houses have recently been entered by small parties, clothes rifled and money taken.  Almost every day we hear of depredations being committed by these gentry.  A special watch has been appointed to look after them, but it would be a good idea for those exposed to these intrusions to be prepared to give these untimely visitors such a reception as will prevent their coming again.  One or two doses from Colt’s revolvers will effectually put an end to these adventurers.

  More on Special Police   

Watertown Democrat, 09 08 1859

 

John Haines, for services as special policeman, from August 3, 1859, to Aug. 29, 1859, 25 nights, $25.00.

 

Carrying the Mails

Watertown Democrat, 06 16 1859

 

Until the 26th day of June, 1859, the undersigned will receive proposals for carrying the mails from the post office in this city to the railroad depot, for one year.  Particulars as to the amount of service may be obtained by application to me at the Post Office.  –James Potter, P.M.

 

Pickerel from the Crawfish River

Watertown Democrat, 06 16 1859

 

Mr. O. P. Cox presented us the other day with a fine specimen of fish they take out of the Crawfish River in the shape of a very large and very nice pickerel, weighing over ten pounds.  Of course we took the stranger in, gave it a warm reception, and we are bound to say, it served us well and did what all good fishes do, giving the amplest satisfaction.

 

The Editor is Out

Watertown Democrat, 06 23 1859

 

The Editor [of the Watertown Democrat] is out of town.  He left Monday last for Green Bay, contemplating an absence of a couple of weeks.  We commend him to the fatherly care of Charley Robinson of the [Green Bay] Advocate and wish, when he thinks he has rusticated enough, he would send him home.  It may be well enough to add that in the meantime the Democrat “machine” is running itself with an occasional turn of the crank by our infernal imp, alias the devil.  Should our columns this week and next contain anything particularly bright or be uncommonly dull, the praise or blame, as the case may be, should be visited upon his head.  The editor will be at his post again in a few days, flourishing, no doubt, “like a Green Bay tree” and feeling all the better for his brief respite from editorial labors.

 

Accident at Depot

Watertown Democrat, 06 30 1859

 

Almost an accident occurred a few days since at the depot, which but for a timely discovery, might have been attended with serious results.  As the train for Columbus was standing there smoke was seen to issue from one of the baggage cars and upon investigation it turned out that a bale of batts [cotton or wool wadded into rolls or sheets, used for stuffing furniture and mattresses or for insulation] was on fire and partially consumed.  Two kegs of powder were standing near the same in the car and probably had not the fire been discovered as it was, an explosion would have been the consequence.  If the train had once got under motion before the fire was noticed we hardly think it would have reached Columbus that night on time.

 

Biting Frost in June

Watertown Democrat, 06 09 1859

 

A biting frost in June is a rare occurrence but on the morning of the 4th we had one which did considerable damage to the gardens and fields.  Most everything liable to injury that had been planted and was up was withered and killed.  Fruit must have suffered considerably and the bright prospects of an abundant yield are very seriously impaired.  This frost has extended over a wide area of the county, east and west . . . all have been touched and blighted by its destroying power and what is singular, it appears to have been severest much further south than we are.  But all is not by any means lost.  We are glad to observe that everyone immediately went to work to repair as far as possible the injury that had been done.  Though the buds and blossoms cannot be restored, new seeds can be sown and there is time enough for them to grow and produce sufficient for our wants and give us something to spare.

 

W. T. Moak

Watertown Democrat, 06 02 1859

 

Successor to Moak & Peabody

 

Dealer in Dry Goods, Groceries, Boots and Shoes, Hats and Caps, etc, etc.  In Schempf’s Block, Main Street, has constantly on hand a full and varied assortment of Goods, to which he invites the attention of Cash or Ready Pay Customers.

  More on W. T. Moak   

Watertown Democrat, 03 29 1860

 

It is hardly necessary, we presume, to call attention to the advertisement of W. T. Moak in another column.  It occupies considerable space, but none too much to set forth all the attractive features of his new stock of spring and summer goods, just received by express.  His store is literally crammed and we have no doubt that he can supply any article usually found in such establishments.  His dress goods are certainly as elegant as any we ever saw in this market and the quantity as large.  So with shawls, mantillas, bonnets and other articles that our lady friends so much delight to look at as well as wear.  Our readers will do well to look in and examine for themselves, and if they want anything in Moak’s line they probably can get it on as favorable terms as they can elsewhere.  We have always noticed that merchants who have the good sense to use printer’s ink freely and advertise what they have to sell as though they wanted people to know it, are whole-souled, generous fellows and always proper, because people will patronize them.

 

Moak is one of this class of men.  He pays as much for advertising every year as a good clerk would cost him, and yet he finds it a profitable investment.  He tells us that there is no item in his expense account so freely incurred as his printers bill—and none the equivalent of which is so satisfactory.

 

Williams & Leonard

Watertown Democrat, 06 02 1859 and Watertown Democrat, 06 06 1861

 

Attorneys at Law.  Office in Peterson and Maldaner’s Block, corner of Main and Second streets.  M. B. Williams.  I. E. Leonard

 

Millinery

Watertown Gazette, 06 18 1909

 

I have on display an exquisite collection of over 100 stylish models of Ladies, Misses’ and Children’s Hats at popular prices; also fancy Goods and Embroidery Silks, Stamping done to order.

 

Baptist Church and Society

Watertown Democrat, 06 30 1859

 

The Baptist Church and Society hereafter will meet for worship in their new room on Second Street.  Services to commence at the usual hour Sabbath morning, also at two o’clock in the afternoon.

 

Reference:  Baptist Church, East Side Second bet Spring and Wisconsin.  Watertown City Directory, 1866-67.

  More on Baptist Church 

Religious Enterprise

Watertown Democrat, 07 14 1859

 

We are glad that the Baptist Society of this city—which has been so long destitute of a house of worship—are now occupying their new edifice on Second St., which will be , when completed, neat, tasty and comfortable.  We are informed by the Trustees that as soon as everything is in readiness the seats will be rented at a low price to those wishing to secure them for themselves and families.  Wednesday of next week is set apart for Dedication services, which will be held morning, afternoon and evening, commencing at the usual hours.  All are cordially invited to attend.  Ministers from abroad are expected to be present on the occasion and the services will undoubtedly be profitable and interesting to all who may attend.  In consequence of painting and graining seats, there will be no services held next Sabbath.  We also learn that Rev. J. B. Patch is the pastor of this congregation and will hereafter preach regularly at this new house of worship.  The chapel is pleasantly located on Second St., and considering the numbers and means of the Baptist denomination in this city, is certainly creditable to their liberality and enterprise.

  More on Baptist Church 

Religious Meetings

Watertown Democrat, 01 12 1860

 

We are informed that a series of meetings are now in progress at the Baptist church in this city.  The Pastor Rev. J. B. Patch is assisted by the well known evangelist, Rev. W. W. Moore, who by the candid, forcible and convincing manner in which he presents his subjects, is attracting public attention and is listened to by large audiences of interested hearers.  He preaches every evening during the present week.

  More on Rev. Patch 

Rev. Patch Leaves Parish

Watertown Democrat, 07 19 1860

 

The Rev. J. B. Patch, for the year past the pastor of the Baptist church of this city, left with his family yesterday for the village of Baraboo, the field of his future labors.  Earnest and active in the discharge of all his duties, an able writer and fluent speaker, he carries with him the best wishes of this community for his future welfare and success.

 More on Rev. Patch 

Rev. J. J. McIntyre

Watertown Democrat, 06 14 1860

 

Baptist Church.  The Rev. J. J. McIntyre, formerly of Berlin, Wis., has succeeded Rev. J. B. Patch, as pastor of the Baptist congregation of this city.  Mr. McIntyre is a clergyman devoted to the cause to which he has consecrated his life and will labor to spread religious truth in the community.  Mr. Patch, having aided in organizing and establishing a new church in this city, leaves with the confidence of all, and carries with him the consciousness of having laid the foundation of a church that hereafter may be strong in numbers and useful in its influence.  We invoke for the new minister abundant success in his efforts—the departing one carries with him the best regards of all who know his sincerity and zeal, for his future happiness and prosperity.

  More on Baptist Church 

Baptist Sabbath School Festival

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

Last evening the members of the Baptist Sunday School of this city enjoyed one of those pleasant times which make children so happy.  A festival was given in the church and all they had to do was to make the most of it, which they did to the full extent.  There was nothing to mar their pleasures but everything to make them think themselves the most fortunate company in the world.  We have no doubt but they will hereafter be more regular in attendance, get their lessons better, learn faster, and by their good behavior, induce their teachers to get up another festival some other time, and make them more thankful still.  That is the way to have more such delightful reunions.

  More on Baptist Church 

Donation Visit

Watertown Democrat, 12 13 1860

 

A notice will be found in another place of a Donation to be given to the Pastor of the Baptist Church, Rev. J. J. McIntire on Wednesday evening, the 19th, at Cole’s Hall.  We are glad the Baptist Society is placing itself in a position when other denominations will have an opportunity to reciprocate the favors heretofore received from them.  This is the first occasion for such a manifestation that they have afforded others, and we hope this opportunity will be improved by the older societies that have received their contributions, on that occasion.  We like to see a disposition to sustain the several pastors of the city develop itself in contributions to them of the substantial benefits they so much need to cheer and encourage their hearts in their labors of love.  It is a sure index of the religious Spirit of the people, and we hope to see good results flowing from such worthy efforts.

 

Honorable John Hughes

to the Rescue

Watertown Gazette, 06 04 1909

 

Last Saturday afternoon at 2:24 o’clock, as the Madison train was pulling out of the station here, a lady with a baby in her arms attempted to get off the train and was sliding down the steps when Assemblyman John Hughes of Reeseville and one of the brakemen caught them in time.  The woman fainted but was restored shortly.  She and her baby had a narrow escape.

 

Blacksmith Shop Building

Real Estate

Watertown Gazette, 06 04 1909

 

W. W. Owen has sold the blacksmith shop building and lot at 208 [South assumed] First Street to George Sell, who has occupied it for some time.  The property consists of a two story brick building and real estate 20 by 120 feet.

 

Amoskeag Fire Engine

Watertown Gazette, 06 04 1909

 

The Dornfeld-Kunert Co. of this city has secured a contract for a new boiler on the Amoskeag fire engine owned by the city of Columbus and the work on same will commence as soon as the steamer arrives, which will be in about a week.  This writer assures the citizens of our neighboring city that they will get a good job, prompt and efficient work, by as good a bunch of mechanics as can be located in Wisconsin.  “Looking for the blow” is a thing of the past here and the name at the head of this article insures Columbus that they will not be compelled to endure the trials and mortifications brought on us here by parties who set things right, corrected defects and did the square thing when they were compelled to do so not many years ago.  Remember the Silsby [of the Watertown Fire Department].  [The Columbus fire engine was hauled overland to Watertown by team].

 

Board of Education, 1959

Watertown Daily Times, 05 05 1959

 

A. E. Bentzin last night was elected president of the Watertown Board of Education at the board's organization meeting.  He succeeds George W. Block, who retired from the board last month.  Bentzin had been vice president.  Henry O. Winogrond was elected vice president and Mrs. Joyce Semon will continue to serve as board clerk and secretary.  Five new board members took their seats last night.  All were elected on April 7.  They are: Royal F. Shepard Jr., who replaces George W. Block in the First Ward.  Neil McMurry who replaces Lester Rehbaum in the Third Ward.  Donald Lenius who replaces Herbert F. Schauer in the Seventh Ward.  Theodore Koerner Jr., who replaces John Verg in the Eleventh Ward.  George L. Wolff who replaces Dr. L.H. Nowack in the Thirteenth Ward.  None of the five board members replaced sought another term in the April election.

 

Kline's Department Store

Watertown Daily Times, 05 05 1984

 

Ralph Adams, manager of Kline's Department Store in Watertown since 1968, has retired, and is being succeeded by Norman Weirick, a member of the Kline's management team for the past 18 years.  The firm also announced that on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday of this week a special grand opening sale will be held at the store, heralding completion of the remodeled and expanded store at its new location.  The new store, completely remodeled and redecorated, now encompasses the entire locations of the former JC Penney Store and the SS Kresge Store.  Kresge's has left the city and Penney's is now located in the ShopKo building complex.

 

Third President

Maranatha Baptist Bible College

Watertown Daily Times, 05 05 1999

 

Dr. David Jaspers will be inaugurated tonight as the third president in the history of Maranatha Baptist Bible College.  Jaspers is 1976 graduate of Maranatha, where he received a bachelor's degree in Bible and pastoral studies.  He replaces Dr. Arno Q. Weniger, who resigned in 1998.

  More on Maranatha   

Growth of Maranatha Baptist Bible College

Watertown Daily Times, 08 25 1999

 

The growth of Maranatha Baptist Bible College over the past 31 years has had a positive impact on the community in several ways, President Dr. Dave Jaspers told representatives of local businesses this morning.  Jaspers gave an update on Maranatha at a breakfast on campus held in appreciation of the continuing partnership formed over the years by the college and the community.  Jaspers said the college benefits from the job opportunities for students provided by Watertown businesses, and the community benefits from dollars spent in the city by the college which is growing each year.

 

Manual Training and Drawing Exhibit

Watertown Gazette, 06 11 1909

 

On Friday and Saturday of this week an exhibit of the work done during the year in manual training and drawing will be shown at the High School.  In the Manual Training department will be seen many models representing the bench course as it has taken up this year.  This is a new department and the careful workmanship of the boys will be a pleasant surprise.  The drawing in the grades has been developed somewhat differently this year than in former years and the progress is very marked.  The work includes drawing and painting from objects, fruits and plant forms, original compositions, designs in wall paper, tapestry, stained glass windows, linoleum, stencil cutting and mechanical drawing.  Many of the pupils have shown excellent natural ability in this work.  The construction work in the grades includes basketry, paper weaving, paper machete, models for log cabins, relief maps, etc.  The public is most cordially invited to visit this exhibit and in this way encourage the pupils and teachers.  The rooms will be open both during the day and evenings.

 

Examination for Clerks and Carriers

Watertown Gazette, 06 11 1909

 

The United States Civil Service Commission announces that on June 25, 1909, at Watertown, Wis., an examination will be held for the positions of clerk and carrier in the post office service . . . Age limits, all positions, 18 to 45 years.  The age limits are waived, however, in the cases of persons honorably discharged from the military or naval service by reason of disability resulting from wounds or sickness incurred in the line of duty.  Male applicants must be at least 5 feet 4 inches in height in bare feet and 125 pounds in weight without overcoat and hat.  Female applicants are not required to be of any specific height or weight.  No person who is defective in any of the following named particulars will be appointed in the post office service:  Hunchbacks, persons having defective hearing, sight or speech; persons blind in one eye; one-armed, one-handed or one-legged persons, or those having crippled arms or legs or those suffering from asthma or hernia . . .

 

Sham Battle

The Northwestern University Co. and Band Gave a Fine Drill and a Sham Battle

Watertown Gazette, 06 04 1909

 

The cadet military company of the Northwestern University of Watertown, nearly 70 strong, accompanied by the University band, reached the city yesterday in the forenoon and were distributed as per prearrangement among the citizens and hotels for entertainment.  As they entered the city keeping step to the time set by the music of the band their appearance was truly military and made an excellent impression on our citizens.  In their uniforms, both soldiers and bandmen, erect and regular in movement, they gave evidence of drill and military instruction a credit to their instructors and to their own sense of soldierly deportment.  The program for the afternoon was a company of drill in which all company evolutions were splendidly executed; a sham battle between the first and second platoons of the company, which was an exciting contest and was kept lively until the second platoon surrendered, proved highly interesting to the large crowd of spectators.  During intervals the band rendered appropriate music.  In the evening the band gave an open air concert in the park, which was highly enjoyed.  It was an enjoyable day for our citizens and furnished proof that the Northwestern University has an excellent military company and a splendid band. –Lake Mills Leader

 

Hortense Nielson

“Doll’s House”

Watertown Gazette, 06 11 1909

 

Nortense Nielson, who is to appear here in Henry Ibsen’s masterpiece “A Doll’s House” at Turner Opera House, will undoubtedly draw a large and appreciative audience.  Miss Nielson has long been one of the favorites of the local theatre-going public and her appearance here on Tuesday evening, June 15, will be a signal for a round of applause.  The Doll’s House does not end as some people would have it, but it is one of the most powerful dramas on domestic life and contains many startling truths.  [In the play] Thorvald Helmer remarks that honorable men refuse to trade their honor of another’s sake and his girl-wife answers “millions of women have done so,” one of the strongest parts of the play . . .

 

Graduation Moved to High School Gymnasium

Watertown Daily Times, 05 04 1999

 

Citing safety issues, the Watertown Unified Board of Education on Monday voted unanimously to support moving graduation ceremonies from Riverside Park into the Watertown High School gymnasium.  But Watertown High School seniors this morning opposed the move, many leaving school grounds in protest.  Administrators requested moving the ceremony because of ongoing safety concerns in the school system.  The board took action on the change of location after it met in closed session to discuss student disciplinary issues.

  More on Move of Graduation Site   

Two Graduation Ceremonies

Watertown Daily Times, 05 13 1999

 

For the first time in the history of the Watertown Unified School District, two graduation ceremonies will be held.  On the morning of June 5, commencement exercises will begin at the same time, honoring the same students, but at two separate locations.  Senior class president Zach Lowe announced on Friday afternoon that 183 of the nearly 300 graduates have indicated they would attend a ceremony at Riverside Park if it were planned.  In a questionnaire circulated by class officers 14 said they will attend the school-sanctioned event in the gymnasium.

  More on Move of Graduation Site   

1999 Graduation

Watertown High School

Watertown Daily Times, 06 06 1999

 

Approximately 300 young adults graduated from Watertown High School on Saturday in a ceremony held in the school gymnasium.  Thousands of people filed into the school for the event, which was threatened last month after students protested the move of the site from Riverside Park to the school in response to safety issues.  While the scene at the school was not as picturesque as the park setting, graduation went off without a hitch.  Security was on the site in the form of Watertown police, auxiliary officers and school officials, but remained inconspicuous.  A few added touches, including a senior slide show and air conditioning on an 80 degree-plus day, helped make the graduation's location a smooth one, many in attendance said.

  More on Move of Graduation Site   

Watertown Daily Times, 10 31 1999

 

Watertown High School students are vocally opposing a policy under consideration by the Watertown Unified Board of Education to permanently move the graduation ceremony indoors at the school.  The policy, approved on its first reading Tuesday night, sets the location of the ceremony and gives the board the sole right to make any change to the location of the graduation exercises.  The current policy, developed in 1995, allows seniors to vote on the location.  Board member Mark Uttech moved to table the first reading of the policy Tuesday in order to consider comments brought up at the meeting.  But his motion failed for lack of a second.  Members voted 7-0 to approve the policy, with Uttech abstaining.

 

Ordained Priests

Watertown Gazette, 06 11 1909

 

Rev. Thomas P. Irving, C.S.C., son of Richard Irving and wife town of Emmet, and Rev. Joseph H. Burke, C.S.C., son of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Burke of Richwood, will be ordained to the holy priesthood in Sacred Heart Church, Notre Dame, Indiana, on Saturday, June 16th, 1909.  The former will say his first Solemn High Mass at St. Bernard’s [in Watertown] on Sunday, July 4th, and the latter will celebrate his first Solemn High Mass at St. Joseph’s, Richwood, on the same date.  They will hold a joint reception at 12 o’clock noon on July 4th at Sacred Heart College, for which a large number of invitations have been issued.

 

Rev. Henry Charles Rehm

Rev. Rehm Writes Song

Watertown Gazette, 06 11 1909

 

The Rev. Henry Charles Rehm, pastor of the First Congregational Church, has lately written a song which had been set to music by Christopher Bach –[Milwaukee Free Press]

 

Baseball

Watertown Gazette, 06 11 1909

 

Sixteen hundred howling fans yelled themselves hoarse on Sunday at one of the most spectacular games seen at Watertown in many a day, when the Kosciuskos of Milwaukee and the home team batted for first place.  The game went eleven innings, the Kosciuskos winning out 5 to 3.  After neither team tallied since the fourth inning, Koppling opened up the eleventh with a beautiful three base drive and the Kosciuskz crown went wild.  Batutha was hit with a pitched ball, then Klappa laid down a pretty bunt and Koppling scored.  Brokowski lined one at Berigan, who erred and another tally resulted, which was enough to win the game.  Watertown was unable to score in their half.

 

City Police Department’s

First Canine Passed Away

Watertown Daily Times, 05 05 2009

 

Bakko, the Watertown Police Department’s first police canine, died in his sleep.  He was just over 12 years old.

 

Bakko was born in Germany and served the Watertown community faithfully for five years prior to his retirement in April of 2005, according to police Chief Tim Roets.

 

Bakko began his service with the Watertown Police Department in March of 2000.  The original Watertown K-9 program was started from seed money provided by the disbanded Watertown Kennel Club in late 1999.

 

Trained as a “dual-purpose” dog, Bakko was an accomplished drug dog and tracker with specialized training in building searches and officer protection.

  More on Bakko   

Bakko

“Schutzhund 1”

Watertown Daily Times, 06 14 2000

 

Watertown Police Department has added a new member to its staff - an aggressive but tempered dog that responds to commands spoken only in German.  The dog is named Bakko and he's familiar with the Romance language.  Five months ago he left Germany for the first time when he was flown into Wisconsin.  Back in his native country, Bakko was deemed a “Schutzhund 1,” a prestigious championship title judges award to dogs that prove they can perform various areas of police patrol work, such as apprehension of criminals and building searches.

 

Senior Housing

Watertown Daily Times, 04 09 1999

 

Almost 100 units of senior housing are on the way this fall in Watertown.  Watertown Area Health Services (WAHS), a division of Watertown Memorial Hospital Association, met with the Watertown Site Plan Review Committee Wednesday and took some steps towards obtaining proper zoning permits while discussing sewer and water facilities before building can commence.

 

The committee recommended the project go before the Watertown Plan Commission.  In the its first phase, Health Services will work with Horizon Investment and Development group to build a 48-unit, three-story assisted living center for seniors adjacent to the Watertown Memorial Hospital (WMH).

 

Last Days of School

Watertown Gazette, 06 04 1909

 

June is the last month of school before the summer vacation, but it is also the last month of school that many boys and girls will ever enjoy.  These will have to begin to earn their daily bread when school closes and many of them, in spite of this handicap, will be more successful at the age of 30 than the boy who is able to continue in school but cares nothing about trying to improve his mind.

 

Sacred Heart College

Commencement

Watertown Gazette, 06 18 1909

 

Corby Hall at Sacred Heart College was crowded with people last Thursday morning to witness the 37th annual commencement of that famous educational institution.  The program was a very interesting one, each young gentleman participating doing credit to himself as well as to Sacred Heart College and its efficient faculty.  [Among the graduates were the following Watertown residents:]  Peter Brooks, Henry Brusenbach and Thomas O’Connell . . . The Stone Gold Medal for General History, donated by William C. Stone, Watertown, was awarded to Herbert Weidner of Chicago . . .

 

Dr. Voss’ Office Robbed

Watertown Gazette, 06 18 1909

 

Last Friday while Dr. Albert E. Voss [dentist] was at dinner someone entered his office over Heismann’s grocery store in Main Street and stole four tubes of gold foil and some gold plate.  He estimates his loss at $35.  His office door lock had been picked and the thief evidently did his work in a hurry.  During the noon hour a man wearing a brown coat was seen going up the stairway and though he was a stranger in these parts, nothing was thought of it till the robbery was reported.

 

Old Landmarks Torn Down

Watertown Gazette, 06 18 1909

 

The two frame buildings at 202 and 204 West Main Street were torn down last week and Charles E. Sommerfeld, who has purchased the property, will erect two store buildings on the site.  One of the buildings will be occupied by himself as a barber shop and the other will be for rental purposes.  The frame buildings torn down were old landmarks in the city, having been erected in the 1840’s and for many years were occupied by the last city assessor, M. J. Gallagher.  In the west building he and his family resided and in the other he conducted a general store.

 

Nash Gas Engine

Nash Gas Engine Installed

Watertown Gazette, 06 18 1909

 

The Dornfeld-Kunert Co’s shop at the foot of First Street belted their shafting, or the “line shaft” of their shop was attached by belt to a “Nash Gas Engine,” 60 horse-power, and was “touched off with a button” same as the Seattle fair, on Monday of last week.  The power furnished was satisfactory and the engine used the gas produced in the Atkinson gas-producing apparatus, which was manufactured by said company.  One of these power plants operated the Fifth Street shop during the winter past.  A ten horse-power engine was a consumer of gas from a similar producer, which required only thirty-five cents worth of soft coal once a day and ran 11 hours daily for such a pittance and at the same time the waste heat was utilized to heat the building.  Here is a complete revolution of the power and heating situation and Mr. Atkinson and his invention is in the minds and mouths of many who daily ponder how they can put their best foot forward and make both ends meet.  We welcome an improvement that is destined to work wonders and increase activity at the foot of First Street.

 

No More Sunday Shaves

Watertown Gazette, 06 11 1909

 

[Madison]  The Sunday barber shop closing bill has been signed by the governor and published and is now a law.  Next Sunday the new statute will be tried out by the tonsorial artists.  Notwithstanding that some Milwaukee barbers do not approve the act, the majority of barbers throughout the state welcome it as a great relief and will be only too willing to comply with its provisions.

 

Real Estate

Watertown Gazette, 06 18 1909

 

Emil Gruel has purchased the Wilson residence property at 418 North Church Street, the consideration being $3500.  The sale was made through the real estate agency of Connor & Speigelhoff.

 

A Great Amusement Resort

Watertown Gazette, 06 25 1909

 

Watertown people have began to realize that there is no finer amusement resort in this section of the country than Waukesha Beach and many are daily taking the interurban cars for that famous resort.  It is only 1 1/2 hour’s ride from here and all of the many who have already this season visited this resort speak highly of its improvement.  Over $25,000 has been expended in improving the buildings—the rest room is large and comfortable, the roller skating building has 8,000 square feet of skating surface and is of steel construction and the refreshment pavilion is one of the largest and most comfortable in the country; the grounds are beautifully illuminated at night with a mammoth electric tower bearing thousands of lights and beautiful electric arches.  There is an excellent baseball park, fine picnic grounds, roller skating, dancing, boating, fishing, bathing and in fact every kind of sport and amusement to attract and entertain visitors.  Large outdoor attractions will be added in the near future.

 

New Factory

Brandt Automatic Cashier

705 South Twelfth Street

Watertown Daily Times, 06 27 1959

 

The Brandt Automatic Cashier Co. today announced the completion of its new factory and said an open house will be held for the public on Monday evening, June 29.  All persons over 18 years of age are invited to visit the new plant.  Group tours will be made through the new plant showing the various manufacturing processes used in building Brandt machines from the raw material to the finished product.  Type of construction used in the new plant will be explained and a display of Brandt machines will be shown.  The Brandt Automatic Cashier Company has recently completed the construction of this most modern manufacturing plant.  Located at 705 South Twelfth Street, this 71,087 square foot building will house all of the manufacturing options except the manufacture of coin wrappers and bill straps which is carried on in another building of 30,608 square feet located in North Water Street.

 

Fourth of July Parade Marshal

William Kwapil Sr.

Watertown Daily Times, 06 27 1984

 

Honorary marshal for this year's Fourth of July Parade will be William Kwapil Sr. of 225 Concord Avenue, well known Watertown businessman.  The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the intersection of Washington and Main streets.  Kwapil is chairman of the board of Seven Up Bottling Co. at 410 South First Street.  He has been associated with the business for 46 years.  The honorary parade marshal annually leads the parade in recognition of his accomplishments and dedication to the community.

 

Special Meeting

Watertown Country Club

Watertown Daily Times, 06 25 1959

 

Plans to speed the development of an additional nine holes will be discussed at a special meeting of members of the Watertown Country Club Thursday evening at 7:30 at the club.  Tentative plans for the construction of the additional nine holes to be located north of the present layout have been approved by the new course committee of the club and the club's board of directors.  The directors and the committee now are seeking the approval of the plans from the club's full membership.  Additionally, a projected operating statement measuring the potential of the expanded operations will be presented to the members for study.

  More on Watertown Country Club   

Watertown Daily Times, 06 29 1959

 

The additional nine holes at the Watertown Country Club will be ready for play by July of next year, providing the weather this fall and spring is favorable. At last night's membership meeting of the club, held at the clubhouse, unanimous approval was given to the proposed layout, and unanimous approval was given to a new finance plan which has been worked out by the finance committee and the board of directors of the club. The added nine will be located directly north of the present nine hole layout, and will be built on a 70 acre site which has been part of the Hinze farm. The site was acquired from Country Club Estates, Inc., which purchased 115 acres from the Hinze family. The remaining 45 acres is being turned into a real estate development. The club bought the 70 acres for $18,000, of which $1,000 has been paid, with a promissory note issued for the remaining $17,000.

  More on Watertown Country Club   

Watertown Daily Times, 01 14 1961

 

Mel Damrow is the new president of the Watertown Country Club.  He was chosen by the new board of directors who were elected at the club's annual meeting held Sunday at the Elks Club.  Other directors chosen by the members and their chairmanships are: Floyd Shaefer, vice president and house chairman; Roland Freitag, secretary-treasurer; Del Hinze, greens chairman; Jim Wade, sports chairman; Ken Usher, grievance chairman; and Lee Block, public relations and membership chairman.  Damrow succeeds Clark Derleth as president.  Derleth headed the club during the recent years of its course expansion.

 

Lingle Hired as Officer by Police Department

Watertown Daily Times, 06 25 2009

 

 

Jeremy Lingle has been hired by the Watertown Police Department to fill a vacant officer position. 

 

Lingle, 27, previously worked as an auxiliary officer for the city police department and is a graduate of Maranatha Academy.  He has a bachelors degree in humanities from Maranatha Baptist Bible College and graduated from Madison Area Technical College’s Basic Law Enforcement Academy in 2009.  Lingle is currently assigned to the department’s field training program for four months.  After successfully completing the field training program, Lingle will be assigned to one of the three shifts in the patrol division.

 

Arnold Landsverk

Watertown Daily Times, 05 09 1959

 

Arnold Landsverk, 57, widely known and popular Watertown High School physical education instructor and athletic director and former coach, is resigning at the close of the current school term.  His future plans are indefinite but he plans to remain in Watertown. Landsverk, one of the most successful coaches in the state of Wisconsin in football and basketball, gave up his coaching career in 1951 on advice of his physician after being troubled by a stomach ailment.  He had to leave the grid team during the 1950 season, coaching it during the week but staying away from games.  The popular educator has been in the Watertown school system since 1929.

 

He started his coaching career at Lake Mills after graduating from Carroll College and then came to Watertown.

 

Lifepak 12-Heart Monitor

Watertown Fire Dept

Watertown Daily Times, 06 25 2009

 

Watertown Common Council Meeting of June 16.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

The following reports were presented and contained the following items:  FINANCE COMMITTEE— JUNE 8, 2009. 1. & 2. Closed Session per Wis. Stats. 19.85 (1)(E) to Discuss Purchase of Property. 3. Lifepak 12-Heart Monitor for Watertown Fire Dept. The committee reviewed the proposal to purchase a Lifepak monitor with the bulk of the proceeds coming from private donations. 4. Auxiliary Paid-On-Call Firefighters. The item will be reviewed throughout the year to see if paid-on-call can be used more extensively to augment the fire services. 5. Township Fire Contracts. After review of a proposal from the townships, a motion was made and carried to treat the EMS revenues differently which would slightly affect the 2010 contracts.

 

RESOLUTIONS

EXHIBIT #7499, would authorize the purchase of a Lifepak 12 cardiac defibrillator at a cost of $20,031.16 to be charged as follows: $14,390.00 to be taken from the donated monies and $5,640.43 be taken from the Funding Assistance Program Account #1-58-11-18, was presented. Sponsor: Mayor Krueger. From: Finance Committee. Alderperson Arnett moved for the adoption of this Resolution, seconded by Alderperson Zgonc and carried on a roll call vote: Yes-6. No-0.

 

Ray Ryan

Watertown Daily Times, 10 02 1957

 

Ray Ryan, Watertown-born oil and hotel man, who recently returned from a trip to Russia, telephoned from Los Angeles to Watertown yesterday and invited Erwin R. Sell of the Feisst Liquor Co. to join him on a tr`ip to New York to attend the World Series.  Ryan was flying with a party of friends in his private plane and asked Sell to meet him in Chicago and join him on the trip to the series.  He did.  Recently, while en route to Russia and before the pennant races had been decided, Ryan sent a postcard to the Times from Germany stating that he was going to Russia but that he would be back “in time to see the World Series games in Milwaukee.”

  More on Ray Ryan 

Watertown Daily Times, 07 09 1959

 

Africa, once the Dark Continent, is being discovered by more and more people who can afford it as a place to vacation, relax, enjoy the dangers of the jungle under the most comfortable circumstances.  Among the men who are investing in the future of Africa is Watertown-born Ray Ryan, oilman-financier of Palm Springs, Calif.  He has teamed up with Movie Star William Holden and the Swiss millionaire-industrialist, Carl Hirschman, in taking over a ritzy African hotel and converting it into a plus safari club for millionaires and people with lesser but adequate means.  The three have organized the Mount Kenya Safari Club six miles outside Nanyuki in Kenya, British East Africa.  They bought the hotel in February and are about to embark on their first season.

  More on Ray Ryan 

Watertown Daily Times, 09 30 1960

 

Ray Ryan, Texas oil man and hotel owner, has purchased complete control and ownership of the famous El Mirador Hotel in Palm Springs, Calif., according to a press dispatch today. Ryan, who was part owner and who served as managing director, paid in excess of one million dollars to acquire the other shares.

 

Ryan, who has been spending considerable time in Kenya, Africa, where he is part owner and director of the famed Mt. Kenya Safari Club, including a hotel, announced he intends to spend more of his time the next few years in Palm Springs to direct the El Mirador, with occasional flying trips to Africa.

 

Globe Mill Retaining Wall

Watertown Daily Times, 07 09 1999

 

In its day, the old mill on South Water Street was the hub of activity for a farming community.  Hundreds of gears turned as grain was pulverized into flour, generated by power from the Rock River.  The fate of the historic landmark was sealed late last year when 70 mph winds whipped through the area, taking with them an entire wall of brick along the east side of the mill facing the river.  What was a central supporting wall of the mill is now a massive pile on the shore.  Owner Larry Mistele, who renovated a former lumber mill to create The Market across the street, said the loss of the wall made the building unsafe.  Heavy equipment was on site this morning to tear down the old mill.

 

A and M Grocery

Watertown Daily Times, 07 03 1959

 

Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Block of 604 Werner Street today took over the ownership and operation of Archie's Market at 503 North Fourth Street and began operating it today as the A and M Grocery.  Mrs. Block is the former Marion Haney whose father was the late Dr. F. C. Haney, for many years city commissioner of health here.  The new owners are now open for business but plan to increase their stock and make other changes.  They plan to add a fresh meat department and will also add a delicatessen with special Sunday hours.  At present the store will be open each Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon and later will add the Sunday afternoon business hours from 4 to 6 p.m. when the delicatessen department is ready.

 

                Note:  This was at one time [e.g., 1913] the location of Fred Bittner, grocer, flour & feed

 

Richards Insurance

Watertown Daily Times, 07 03 1984

 

Don Richards, president of Richards Insurance Agency, 111 West Main Street, and Don Knick, president of Knick Insurance Agency, 818 East Main Street, have announced that their agencies have merged under the Richards name as of July 1.  The Richards Insurance Agency is one of the largest agencies in Wisconsin with offices in Beaver Dam, Hartford, Columbus, Oshkosh, West Bend and Watertown.  The Knick Insurance Agency was established in Watertown by Louis A. Knick in 1913 and has been operated by members of the Knick family since that time.

 

Ginny Dobbratz

Watertown Daily Times, 07 03 1999

 

In 1979, Ginny Dobbratz drove by a sign anchored in front of an empty lot on Highway 26 that read, “Future Home of Highway 26 Cleaners.”  Shortly after, she moved in that home and became manager.  Two decades have passed and she's moving out.  Dobbratz, who has been known as the solid foundation of the Laundromat, is saying goodbye this week to the countless customers who have used her washers and dryers she calls the cleanest in town.  A few days ago, a mother and son came in for one last spin.  They've been using the Laundromat for 20 years.  They told Dobbratz in a moment of sorrow that they would probably never seen her again.  The son cried and told her, “We are going to miss your cheerful smile.”

 

Judy Christian

Watertown Daily Times, 07 20 1984

 

Judy Christian, an employee of the advertising staff of the Watertown Daily Times, has been named advertising manager of the firm, according to James M. Clifford, associate publisher and general manager.  She succeeds Phil Strunz in that position.  Strunz will leave the Daily Times on Aug. 4 after 16 years with the firm.  He has accepted a new position as a district sales manager for Dairyland Seeds.

 

Jack's Arcade

Watertown Daily Times, 07 23 1959

 

Jack's Arcade, located at 111 West Main Street, will formally open its doors on Friday of this week.  Owned and operated by Jack Zimmermann, the arcade has been equipped with a variety of games.  There is also a juke box and ice cream and a great variety of candy bars will be available.  All will be coin operated.  This is the first arcade of its kind in Watertown and Mr. Zimmermann extends an invitation to the public to drop in for some relaxing entertainment and diversion.

 

1959 High School Football Team

Watertown Daily Times, 07 24 1959

 

Football poked its oval shape onto the Watertown sports scene Wednesday night as 24 Watertown High School juniors and seniors reported to Coach Bob Buel's home to be measured for new helmets.  Boys who reported for headgear fitting last night were Jim Oestreich, Bill Mullen, Jim Cahoon, Jim Pirkel, Chuck Hrobsky, Dick Schumann, Doug Lamp, Chuck Kelm, Tom Podolske, Henry Winogrond, Kent Karberg, Mike Schuenemann, John Mooney, Phil Strunz, Ed Twesme, John Twesme, Tom Theder, Paul Fernholz, Red Schleicher, Vic Miller, Ron Knope, Neal Butenhoff, Dick Tornow, Leo Checkai and Dick Rohde.

 

Watertown Municipal Band Concert

Watertown Daily Times, 07 21 1959

 

The Watertown Municipal Band Concert which was dedicated to the 105th Cavalry last evening at Riverside Park proved to be a most successful event.  A large crowd was in attendance and the concert was outstanding in its renditions.  Chester McGuire narrated the program and Ted Koerner played the trumpet calls.  Other soloists included Carl A. Hobus who sang the “105th Cavalry March” and “I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen”; George Shepard sang the march song, “Tim Toolan”; and Lorenz Wesemann played the baritone solo in “I'll Take You Home Again Kathleen.”  Guest conductor Floyd Bordsen directed several numbers.  Others called upon to direct were Art Rupnow, Ray Fredrich and Bill Kehl.

 

Fourth Street Bridge

Water Street Bridge

Watertown Daily Times, 07 25 1984

 

The Watertown Public Works Committee recommended Tuesday to go ahead with plans to extensively rehabilitate the North Fourth Street bridge and resurface the North Water Street bridge at a cost of $63,525.  If approved by the council, work on the Fourth Street bridge will begin on or about Aug. 13 and extend for approximately 75 days.  File on bridges.

 

High School

Seven Day Class Period

Watertown Daily Times, 07 18 1959

 

Starting with the new school term in the fall, the Watertown High School will introduce a new daily seven day class period, changing from the daily six class period which has been the rule in the past.  First details of the plan were outlined to members of the Watertown Board of Education last night by the school administrators, headed by Superintendent Eugene Tornow.  The new plan has been under study following a petition by some 200 high school students circulated and petitioned for earlier this year.  They requested school authorities to consider increasing the daily class day by one study period.

 

New Pastor

Trinity Lutheran Church

Watertown Daily Times, 07 10 1999

 

Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church will welcome its fifth full time pastor in its 83-year history on Sunday.  An installation service for the Rev. James A. Mattek will be held at 4:30 p.m.  The theme for the sermon to be preached by Mattek's brother, Professor John Mattek of Luther Preparatory School, will be “Cherished Truths That Make This Day Special,” based on John 13:12-20.  The installing pastor will be the Rev. Robert J. Voss, who has served Trinity since Feb. 1 as interim pastor.  Special music will be provided by Trinity Choir, who will sing “Forever Blest Is He.”  The choir is under the direction of Professor Steven Biedenbender.

 

Dr. John M. Wagner

Watertown Daily Times, 07 07 1959

 

Dr. John M. Wagner, a veterinarian, has located in Watertown and has opened a general veterinarian practice here.  He and his family, which includes five children, have moved into a home at 122 South Montgomery Street, and he will have his office there.  Dr. Wagner, a native of Chicago, moved to Michigan and graduated from Michigan State University, receiving both his bachelor of science and his doctor of veterinary medicine degrees from that university.  He is a veteran of World War II, having served with the U.S. Air Force.

Cross Reference:  122 Montgomery; Seen in distance, Mary Wagner prop, former convent, WHS_005_901

 

Reuben A. Feld

Watertown Daily Times, 07 07 1984

 

Reuben A. Feld [Feld, Ben [Rueben)] was honored at a surprise retirement reception at the Welcome Inn.  The event was hosted by his children.  The guest list included former students and their parents.  Feld completed 34 years of public school teaching, beginning his professional career in Ohio prior to moving to Stevens Point, and then to Watertown where he served as administrator and classroom teacher in the elementary schools for the past 25 years.

 

Rich Block

Watertown Daily Times, 07 11 1959

 

Rich Block, Watertown Cardinal shortstop, was the lone Watertown player named to the Central Wisconsin League's northern division all-star squad at a meeting of managers held at Jefferson Wednesday night.  The annual north-south star game will be played at Edgerton on July 19.  Jerry Moldenhauer of Johnson Creek was named manager of the squad automatically by virtue of Creek's first place finish in the division last year.  Don Hein of Lake Mills and Bob Klement of Fort Atkinson were selected to assist him.  Creek players named to the starting team were Chuck Braunschweig at first base and Cliff Moldenhauer in center field.  Chuck Shannon of Jefferson was named a starting pitcher.

 

Ad-Tech

Watertown Daily Times, 07 11 1999

 

Ad-Tech Industries, Inc. is expanding for a fifth time in its two-decade history after receiving a state bond designed to help companies recruit workers and develop new projects.  Ad-Tech, 110 S. Votech Drive, is adding 33,000 square feet and 45 new jobs to its plant with help from a $1.75 million industrial revenue bond it received from the state Department of Commerce.  Besides the bond, the company is putting $1.75 million of its own money into expansion and recruitment.  The company has already hired 10 new employees, general manager Bill Neeman said.  Over the next three years, 35 more will be hired at starting wages averaging $10.50 an hour.  Construction of the addition is under way.

 

Petition to discontinue

Railway Express Agency

Watertown Daily Times, 06 19 1959

 

The Wisconsin Division office in Milwaukee of the Railway Express Agency, Inc., has filed a petition with the State Public Service Commission of Wisconsin for permission to discontinue agency service in Watertown, Ixonia, Jefferson, Jefferson Junction, Lake Mills, Sullivan, all areas in either Dodge and Jefferson counties as well as agencies located in several Walworth and Dane County localities.  The commission has set a hearing on the petition at the Jefferson County courthouse in Jefferson on July 15 starting at 10 a.m. at which time it will hear any persons who wish to appear for or against the petition.

 

Hospital to celebrate

first year of partnership

Watertown Daily Times, 07 29 2009

 

Watertown Regional Medical Center celebrated the first anniversary of its affiliation with University of Wisconsin Health.

 

The local health care facility, formerly known as Watertown Memorial Hospital, officially changed its name to UW Health Partners Watertown Regional Medical Center on Aug. 1, 2008.

 

To help commemorate the first anniversary, Watertown Regional Medical Center will be hosting a Concert on the Lawn celebration on Thursday.

 

The complimentary event will start at 6 p.m. with a performance by the Wisconsin Singers.  Children's entertainment will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the UW Band will give its famous fifth quarter performance at 7 p.m.

 

Since its partnership with UW Health last year, Watertown Regional Medical Center has gone through a number of changes to increase access to specialty patient services and bring world class care to the area.  The hospital recently rolled out Wisconsin's first Telestroke program, which uses telemedicine to provide regional residents with 24/7 access to physician stroke specialists at UW Health.  This program's advanced telemedicine technology allows UW Health neurologists to interact with patients at the Watertown hospital and provide specialist consultation and care for stroke patients and their families.

 

Watertown Regional Medical Center has also expanded its heart and vascular center.  UW Hospital and Clinics is one of the nation's top heart and vascular providers.  The development of the heart and vascular center resulted in the region's first full-time community cardiologist as well as a state-of-the-art cardiovascular catheterization lab.

 

Other enhanced specialty services at Watertown Regional Medical Center include maternal and fetal medicine, spine care, a neurology center and advanced pain management interventional services.

 

Watertown Regional Medical Center was recently recognized as one of the nation's most wired small and rural hospitals by Hospitals & Health Networks Magazine, the official publication of the American Hospital Association.

 

Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society Analytics has also recognized the local health care organization for “stage 6 electronic medical record integration,” which has only been accomplished by 1 percent of hospitals nationwide.

 

UW Health Partners Watertown Regional Medical Center has other health campuses in Lake Mills, Waterloo, Juneau and Ixonia. The health care organization also operates the UW Cancer Care Center in Johnson Creek.

 

On the local level, UW Health Partners Watertown Regional Medical Center provides 716 jobs and directly brings nearly $76 million in revenue to the community.

 

Full text article

 

Health and Wellness Center

Watertown Daily Times, 07 29 1999

 

Residents will be able to comment on a plan for a one-stop health and wellness center to be located at the former high school, 415 S. Eighth St., during a public hearing before the Watertown Common Council Tuesday at 7 p.m.   The one-stop center would be a community-run, nonprofit organization called the Health and Wellness Center of Watertown.  The high school's owners, Bill Ehlinger, Bob Long, Bill O'Brien and Dan Rullman, are proposing to raze the old portion of the building to create space for a parking lot, playground and indoor lap pool.  The south section is the original red brick high school building.

  More on Old High School 

Watertown Daily Times, 07 29 1999

 

Melancholy visitors have been paying last tributes to the original Watertown High School building as the owners make plans to raze the structure.  Over the weekend, Bill Ehlinger, who owns the building with Bob Long, Bill O'Brien and Dan Rullman, acted as greeter at the Eighth Street entrance.  He saw hundreds of former teachers and students taking one final stroll through the historic halls.  “It was an interesting couple of days,”  Ehlinger said this morning as he prepared to go back to the school to let some teachers go through old textbooks left there when the school district shifted to its new building in 1994.  While Ehlinger never attended Watertown High School, all four of his children did.  And the looks on the faces of residents who toured the building over the weekend told the story.

  More on Old High School 

Watertown Daily Times, 08 01 1999

 

Residents voiced concerns about parking and loss of tax base when a public hearing on the proposed development of the former high school was held Tuesday before the Watertown Common Council.  The school, located at 415 S. Eighth St., is owned by Bill Ehlinger, Bob Long, Bill O'Brien and Dan Rullman.  The owners are planning to develop a one-stop health and wellness center at the site.  They plan to raze the south section of the complex, or the original red brick school, and construct a 65-vehicle parking lot in part of that space.  The center's owners would attempt to file under nonprofit corporate status after three nonprofit organizations move into the north portion of the building.

  More on Old High School 

Watertown Daily Times, 12 08 1999

 

Having a debilitating illness is never a good thing, but Bill Ehlinger always manages to keep a positive outlook during his battle with Parkinson's disease.  His forced retirement from his dental practice six years ago has given him more time to carry out a vision he hopes will become an important legacy to the community.  He is committed to transforming the Watertown Athletic Club and its facility from a for-profit enterprise into a unique nonprofit center.  The facility will house 10 organizations which serve area residents in a variety of ways.  To highlight his commitment to the Health and Wellness Center located in the former Watertown High School, he recently donated $150,000 to help finance the project.  His goal is to raise $1.5 million to get the center started and provide it with funds to become self-sustaining.

  More on Wellness Center 

Watertown Daily Times, 01 28 2001

 

William “Bill” Ehlinger, president of the Health and Wellness Center (HAWC), is stepping down from the day-to-day operations of the center. John Bardenwerper of Pewaukee has been hired as director of the facility which is home to several community organizations.

 

He has currently served as senior district executive of the Boy Scouts of America for the past four years. He has had extensive experience with the YMCA.

 

First Major Fly-In

Watertown Airport

Watertown Daily Times, 07 27 1959

 

Watertown's first major fly-in at the Watertown Airport on Sunday drew large numbers of visitors to the scene.  The fly-in was participated in by fliers from many different parts of the state and at one time there were between 35 and 40 different planes on the field.  Between 400 and 500 chicken barbecue dinners were served during the noon and early afternoon hours.  Pilots gave rides to many visitors, taking them on spins over the city and surrounding areas.  For many it was the first airplane ride.  All seemed thrilled when they stepped out of the craft.  Rides continued throughout the afternoon and early evening.

 

Budget for School Food Service

Watertown Daily Times, 07 22 1999

 

A $1.4 million budget for the Watertown school food service was introduced to the board of education Thursday.  After reviewing the proposed budget, the board approved an increase in lunch and breakfast prices for the middle and high school.  The 10 cent increase will also be applied to adult lunches and breakfasts.  The daily price for lunches in 1999-2000 will be $1.60 at the middle school; $1.65 at the high school; and $2.85 for adults.  Breakfast prices will be $1.20 at the middle school; $1.25 at the high school; and $1.60 for adults.  There is no price change for elementary students.

 

Turner Hall Site

Proposed for Supermarket

Watertown Daily Times, 05 15 1959

 

The Watertown Turners are ready to build a new Turner Hall in the event the sale of the present Turner property is consummated following yesterday's overwhelming vote to dispose of the present Turner Hall and property on South Fourth Street.  That was the announcement made today by Harley Lehmann, president of the Turners, who announced the vote tabulated yesterday afternoon as 120 to 21 for the sale.  Completion of the sale is subject to further negotiations.  The property is being sought by a nationally known food chain for a supermarket.

  More on Turner Hall and Supermarket   

A & P Store

Watertown Daily Times, 07 30 1959

 

Preliminary steps for the construction of a new supermarket [A&P] in South Second and South First Streets is now underway.  Present structures on the site are being removed and the new site will be cleared as soon as possible so work can begin.  The site was acquired some weeks ago by a Milwaukee realty concern which will construct the new market and then lease it to a nationally known food concern.  This new supermarket is separate from the one reported as a possibility some weeks ago on the site of the present Turner Hall property.

 

Col. Clarence F. Golisch

Watertown Daily Times, 08 01 1959

 

Col. Clarence F. Golisch, a chaplain in the United States Army Reserve and executive director of Bethesda Lutheran Home, Watertown, has received orders to report for duty for two weeks with the Denver United States Army Reserve School at Camp Sparta, Wis., Aug. 16.  Colonel Golisch will be an instructor with the school and is qualified to teach in any of four series of command and general staff subjects.  This will be his fifth summer term as instructor.

 

Library Closed on Thursdays

Watertown Daily Times, 08 07 1984

 

Due to the lack of personnel, the Watertown Library will not be open on Thursdays when the expanded 100 South Water Street facility begins operations Sept. 24.  The Watertown Library Board approved the reduction in hours Thursday evening after considering several options including a scattered hours schedule.  A cut in hours is necessary, said City Librarian Mary Carol Powers, because the current amount of staff simply is not sufficient to operate the new facility on a six-day-a-week basis.

 

Ornamental Sheet Metal

for old section of Library

Watertown Daily Times, 06 13 1984

 

Opting for complete replacement instead of the previously budgeted repairs, the Watertown Library Board recommended Tuesday the purchase of $53,000 worth of ornamental sheet metal for the old section of Watertown Library.  Eighty-two feet of ornamental sheet metal has already been installed around the new section of the library.  Thursday's recommendation calls for the purchase of 149 feet of the metal for the old Carnegie building.  The initial board plan to repair the deteriorating metal, including sanding and patching, has an estimated cost of $5,900.

 

New Educational Facility

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Watertown Daily Times, 06 13 1999

 

Members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church celebrated the completion of their new educational facility over the weekend.  Hosting a Good Neighbors Festival, the church invited people of the Watertown area to share in the celebration with activities including a dedication service on Sunday, a congregation picnic and a concert by a nationally known Christian recording artist.  In addition, a high flying outreach ministry called “Lift High the Cross” featured a 70-foot-tall hot air balloon with two 40-foot crosses as its focal point.  The balloon met with a mishap Friday when an unexpected storm ripped the lighter-than-air craft.  Temporary repair efforts allowed the balloon to be inflated briefly Sunday afternoon.

 

Watertown Citizen Police Academy

Watertown Daily Times, 08 06 2009

 

The Watertown Police Department is now mailing out applications for the Fall 2009 Citizen Police Academy.  The 10- to 12-week academy is scheduled to start Sept. 3 and run through Nov. 12. 

 

The Citizen Police Academy provides citizens an educational opportunity to learn more about the role of the Watertown Police Department.

 

It promotes a better understanding of the expectations the community has of our department, and it promotes citizen involvement in helping to keep our community safe.  It also allows an opportunity for officers and citizens to meet and exchange ideas in a relaxed, nonthreatening environment.  Classes will include lecture, demonstrations and workshops.

 

Class topics include: facility tour, patrol tactics, duties and equipment of the telecommunicator, investigations, evidence collection, laser and radar use, firearms training, crime prevention and community relations, arrest procedures and other classes covering a wide range of police functions and operations. It also includes one very popular Saturday session in which the citizens can experience hands-on training in areas such as firearms and traffic stops.

 

This training is not designed to certify citizens to perform law enforcement services. Its purpose is simply to enhance community relations and provide citizens with insights into the criminal justice system.

 

This will be our 10th year facilitating the Citizen Police Academy. There have been over 180 graduates from the CPA Program.

 

Henszey Company

Watertown Daily Times, 08 06 1959

 

Announcement was made on July 1 that the Henszey Company of Watertown, manufacturers of dairy, food, and chemical processing equipment, with worldwide distribution, had been sold to interests represented by Pieter W. Schipper.  The previous announcement of the sale was carried in the Times last month. Mr. Schipper, a mechanical engineer with an extensive background of administration and production experience in this country and abroad, will be president of the newly formed company, which will be known as The Henszey Company, Inc.

 

Miss Eileen Scott

Watertown Daily Times, 06 06 1984

 

The fact that Miss Eileen Scott has contributed much to the betterment of Watertown and many of its citizens was emphasized many times Wednesday evening, but she countered, “I have received far more than I have given.”  The occasion was a dinner honoring Miss Scott, area coordinator for the Watertown Area campus of Madison Area Technical College.  She is retiring at the close of this term at MATC.  A large crowd attended the dinner which was held at Watertown Country Club.

 

110th anniversary

D. and F. Kusel Co

Watertown Daily Times, 06 05 1959

 

The D. and F. Kusel Co., West Main Street, is observing its 110th anniversary of business operations in Watertown and to commemorate the event has announced plans for a major anniversary sale which will begin Wednesday and continue through Saturday.  In its 110 years the widely known hardware establishment has been in the hands of the same family and is now owned and operated by the fourth generation.  What is now the D. and F. Kusel Co. was founded here in June of 1849, the year after Wisconsin was admitted into the Union.  It and its name have been identified with the history and progress of Watertown, dating back over a century.  The first Kusel store was opened just 13 years after the first white settler, Timothy Johnson, arrived in Watertown.

 

Knights of Columbus

Watertown Daily Times, 06 02 1959

 

Carl V. Kolata has been re-elected grand knight for the golden jubilee year of Watertown Council No. 1478, Knights of Columbus.  The local group will celebrate its 50th year of operation in 1960.  Other officers elected include: Edward Wurst, deputy grand knight; Dr. H. Magnan, Jr., warden; Joseph McFarland, chancellor; Lester Herro, advocate; Al Gamroth, treasurer; Joseph Podolske, recording secretary; Harold Allerman, inside guard; Andrew Boyum, outside guard. Elected for another term as trustee was Frank Markl.

 

Effort for new Post Office Building

or Improve Present Building

Watertown Daily Times, 05 22 1959

 

The question of whether it would be better in the long run, from an economical standpoint, to make an effort to secure a new post office building for Watertown or spend money to refurnish and improve the present building has recently been raised and today Congressman Robert W. Kastenmeier put the question to the citizens of Watertown in a letter he sent to the Daily Times.  The present post office building is in need of repairs and changes, and beyond that it cannot be expanded for future needs and any sums spent on reconditioning it would be for a temporary period only, it is pointed out.  The post office has, in recent years, undergone several inspections with a view to make certain changes and improvements.  The most recent inspection was made a few weeks ago.

 

Cunningham-Parks

Watertown Gazette, 09 03 1909

 

The wedding of Miss Marguerite Cunningham of Princeton, Ill, to Lewis W. Parks, of Watertown, took place Saturday morning, August 28, 1909, at the home of the bride’s sister, Mrs. E. S. Bridge, Milwaukee, Wis.  The Rev. H. C. Rehm of this city officiated.  They were unattended. Only relatives were present.  Those present from this city were:  Mrs. L. L. Parks, Miss Olive Parks, Clifton Parks, and Mrs. George B. Lewis (mother, sister, brother and grandmother of the groom).  At the conclusion of a brief wedding trip they will reside at 506 Washington Street, this city.  The groom is a member of one of Watertown’s best and oldest families and a young man of most excellent character and is popular here with a large acquaintance.  He is a member of the G. B. Lewis Co., beeware manufacturers, and no one in Watertown has ever entered married life with more well-wishes.  His bride is quite well known here, at one time being a student at our public library [intern?].  She is an amiable and accomplished young lady and will be a most welcome addition to Watertown society.

 

Gone West

Watertown Gazette, 07 23 1909

 

Last Monday evening Frank M. Eaton and sons Almond and Myron left for the west, and if they find a suitable business location will locate there.  They will visit Denver, Pueblo, Salt Lake City, Ogden, Portland, Tacoma, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and other Pacific Coast cities.

  More on Frank M. Eaton and sons 

Letter from Frank J. Roffeis

Watertown Gazette, 08 06 1909

 

Boise, Idaho, July 30, 1909

 

Editor, Gazette:

 

Last Thursday July 27th, Frank M. Eaton, two sons, and a Mr. Peters of my native city, Watertown, Wis., were here in Boise to see me.  I certainly was glad to see some old-timers from my old home town.  I took them around and introduced them to some of the old-timers here.  They seemed to be quite favorably impressed with this city and our people.  We had a nice time while he was here chatting about the congenial people of Watertown, as one does not find them quite so plentiful in other cities.  Mr. Eaton and his party were on their way to Spokane and Seattle, and I certainly appreciated their short visit here.  I want to thank you, Mr. Moore, for reminding them about coming to Boise.

 

Yours truly,

Frank J. Roffeis.

 

Back from the West

Watertown Gazette, 09 03 1909

 

Frank M. Eaton and son Almond and Arthur Peters returned on Monday from their trip to the Pacific Coast.  Mr. Eaton’s son Myron remained at Medford, Oregon, at the home of Charles Dierelein, where he will make his headquarters for a time.  Mr. Eaton traveled through Idaho, Washington, Oregon and California, meeting Watertown people most everywhere he went, all doing well—Frank Roffies at Boise City, Idaho, Herman Lange, Alex Wiesemann, Henry C. Meyer and son at Spokane Falls; D. H. Beurhaus at Tacoma; H. Herbst and C. H. Sprague at Los Angeles; and Chas. Dierelein at Medford, Oregon.  Mr. Eaton is not very favorably impressed with the west for business purposes, except in Oregon.  California is all right for climate—the finest under the sun, but he thinks all lines of business are overdone there.  He still has the western fever and says he may possibly locate in the state of Oregon.

 

First Methodist Church

Conference Held

Watertown Gazette, 09 03 1909

 

The fourth quarterly conference of the First Methodist Church was held last Friday at the church parlors, the Rev. J. Reynolds of Janesville, district superintendent, presiding.  A large attendance was present and new members were introduced.  The business of the church was carefully reviewed and officers were elected and committees were appointed for the new conference year.  Superintendent Reynolds spoke words of highest appreciation.  The Rev. M. L. Eversz, the pastor, was unanimously invited to continue for the sixth year.  Delicious refreshments were served by the Ladies’ Society and a most enjoyable church meeting was held.

 

H. Wertheimer Banqueted

Watertown Gazette, 09 03 1909

 

In honor of his 60th birthday anniversary Ex-Mayor Herman Wertheimer was the guest of honor at a banquet given last Saturday evening at the New Commercial Hotel by H. W. Heinrichs, vice-president of the M. D. Wells Shoe Co., complimentary to his efforts in the interest of a greater Watertown.  Mr. Heinrichs and his sister, Miss C. Heinrichs of Milwaukee, assisted by Mrs. H. Wertheimer, received the guests in the hotel parlor. 

 

Those present were:  Mr. and Mrs. W. D. Sproesser, Mr. and Mrs. William F. Voss, Mr. and Mrs. Fred A. Hoffman, Mr. and Mrs. F. W. Woodard, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Wertheimer, Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Woodard, Mr. and Mrs. H. Wertheimer, Mrs. L. Brandenburg, Miss C. Heinrichs, Milwaukee, Joseph Terbrueggen, Fred Kusel, John Schmahl, Edward Broennimann, New York City. 

 

The menu served was as follows:

 

Dry Martini

Salted Almonds

Iced Cantaloupe

Celery

Olives

Boullion

St. Julian

Individual Planked Whitefish

Potatoes Border

Sweetbread Patties

Squab in Casserolle

Moet and Clandon White Seal

Parsley Potatoes

Cauliflower

Stuffed Tomato Mayonaisse

Harlequin Ice Cream

Cake

Newchattle Cheese

Coffee

Toaster Wafers

Crème de Menthe

Cigars

 

The menu was well served and the management of the New Commercial was complimented on all sides for its excellence.  Mr. Heinrichs officiated as the toastmaster and paid a fine compliment to Watertown and its citizens and to the management of the New Commercial Hotel.  Many happy responses were given to the toasts and a very pleasant feature of the evening’s program was the presentation of a gold-headed cane by citizens of Watertown to Mr. Wertheimer, Mr. Heinrichs delivering the presentation speech. 

 

The following letter accompanied the gift:

 

Hon. Herman Wertheimer, President, Watertown Advancement Association.

 

Dear Friend:

 

We, the undersigned citizens and business men of Watertown, do hereby petition your acceptance of the accompanied gift as a slight token of our esteem for you as an associate and our of appreciation of your praiseworthy efforts for the advancement of the business interests of our city.

 

The gift was cordially accepted by Mr. Wertheimer in a few happy words that told very effectively how highly he appreciated the compliment extended him.  At about 10 o’clock that evening the Watertown Military Band serenaded Mr. Wertheimer and the other guests at the banquet.  Mr. Wertheimer is one of Watertown’s most progressive citizens—he is president of the Watertown Advancement Association, of the Inter-County Fair Association, Out-Door Art Association, and Home-Coming Club.  His time and money have always been most generously given to advance the interests of this city, hence the compliment extended him last Saturday evening was most worthily bestowed.

  More on Herman Wertheimer Recognition 

Thanks for Remembrance

Watertown Gazette, 09 03 1909

 

Editor Gazette—I wish to express through the columns of The Gazette my grateful thanks for the kind remembrance by the citizens and businessmen of Watertown on the occasion of my birthday anniversary and to express to them the most kindly feeling for their appreciation of my efforts in conjunction with the other officers of the Watertown Advancement Association for a greater industrial Watertown and I assure them that it will always be my aim to merit their approval in like matters in the future.  With the aid and assistance of the people in the future, so generously given in the past, there seems no good reason why Watertown should not take front rank with her sister cities in Wisconsin.

 

Again thanking you, I am

 

Herman Werthheimer

 

Watertown Team Left the Field

Watertown Gazette, 09 10 1909

 

At Waukesha on Sunday the Watertown and Waukesha baseball teams were the opposing clubs.  In the second inning the Watertown team left the field on what they considered a very rank decision of the umpire . . . We [Ft. Atkinson Democrat] can say for the Watertown boys that they are a gentlemanly lot of players and while here in two games abided by every decision without protest.

 

Edward L. Schempf

John Goodnetter

Watertown Gazette, 09 10 1909

 

Edward L. Schempf of Schempf Bros. Co. and John Goodnetter, one of their salesmen, returned on Saturday from New York where they had been for three weeks selecting fall and winter goods for Schempf Bros. Co.

 

A Fine Show Window

Watertown Gazette, 09 17 1909

 

One of the finest plate glass show windows in the state has just been placed in the store of Charles Fischer & Son in West Main Street, giving an opportunity to that popular general merchandise store to make a good display of goods on sale at its store.  A fine pillar mirror to one side of the window adds to its attractiveness.

  More on Charles Fischer & Son 

Invitation

Charles Fischer & Son Co.

Watertown’s Greater West Side Store

Beautiful Souvenirs FREE During Opening Sale

Watertown Gazette, 09 24 1909

 

This is your invitation to the fall opening sale and to the opening of our enlarged and remodeled store, October 1st, 2nd, 4th and 5th.

 

During the last three months a great many changes have been made in our store; 1250 square feet more floor space have been added to our salesroom—the show window has been enlarged and lowered, making it one of the finest windows in this town for the display of goods.

 

Our rapidly growing carpet and rug department has been moved to the 2nd floor and given double the floor space it formerly occupied and will be more than ever Watertown’s largest rug stock.

 

A big department devoted to ladies ready-to-wear goods is a strong feature of the enlarged and remodeled store.  The 3rd floor is practically all given to ready-to-wear goods and everything is new in suits, cloaks, furs, skirts, and waists, for fall and winter, is here, and we hope it will be our pleasure to have you visit our 3rd floor during opening sale and inspect this authoritative display.

 

Beautiful souvenirs will be presented to every person making a purchase $1.00 or more—a souvenir that will surely please you.  Bring your friends and come.

 

Miss Lilian Mundt

Watertown Gazette, 09 17 1909

 

At a regular meeting of the Public Library Board last Tuesday evening, a salary of $5 per month was voted Miss Lilian Mundt, daughter of John Mundt and wife, North Fourth Street.  Miss Mundt was graduated from the Watertown High School last June and is at present serving her apprenticeship at the public library, which does not carry with it a salary, but Miss Mundt, having shown more than ordinary interest in the library, and serving daily more time than is required for an apprentice, the Board thought it was proper to compensate her for this extra work.  At the expiration of her apprenticeship in November she will be appointed assistant librarian at the customary monthly salary for newly-appointed assistants.

 

Watertown Fair Sept. 21-24

Watertown Gazette, 09 10 1909

 

The Watertown Inter-County Fair will be held at Watertown on September 21, 22, 23, and 24.  This will be one of the big fairs held in Wisconsin this fall and will be run day and night.  The transportation facilities are of the best, as the street cars will run directly to the main gate with only a few minutes for the trip.

 

There will be free attractions on the grounds during the afternoon and evening and plenty of music.  The racing program calls for an outlay of $3600 in purses and everything connected with the 1909 fair will be on a large scale.

 

There will be train service north on Thursday evening, leaving Watertown about 9:30 o’clock.

  More on Inter-County Fair of 1909 

Inter-County Fair

1909

Watertown Gazette, 09 17 1909

The Watertown Fair

 

The Inter-County Fair will be held on the fairgrounds in this city next Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and it promises to be one of the very best fairs held in Wisconsin this year.  Over $3600 will be paid out in purses for the races.  There will be many free attractions both during the day and at the evening fair and the exhibits promise to be large and excellent in every department.

 

The first day of the fair will be Children’s Day—free to all children under 18 years of age.  Wednesday will be Watertown Day and it is expected that all lines of business will be suspended during the afternoon to help swell the crowd.  On Thursday a special train will carry the Beaver Dam visitors and they well be accompanied by the Beaver Dam Brass Band.  The Waterloo Cornet band and Waterloo Juvenile Band will furnish music for that day.  The Columbus Band will furnish music on Friday.  The Watertown Imperial Band will furnish the music on Tuesday and music on Wednesday will be furnished by the Watertown Military Band and the Reeseville Band.

 

The speed program [horse racing] will be under the charge of William F. Earle and will include the four days . . .

 

Following are the officers and superintendents of the fair:

 

President—H. Wertheimer

Vice President—G. M. Gahlmann

Treasurer—C. E. Frey

Secretary—Charles Mulberger

Assistant Secretary—Emil Track

Executive Committee—W. A. Beurhaus, John C. Gruel, H. G. Grube, Albert Cebell, C. A. Vaughan, Simon Molzahn, Charles Kiepert, Concord; C. E. Donovan, Waterloo; John F. Hughes, Reeseville.

 

Superintendents:

Gates and Grounds—C. A. Vaughan

Speed—William Earle

Horses—Ernest Krueger

Cattle—E. E. Randall

Sheep and Swine—Peter Thauer

Poultry—George J. Weber

Farm Implements and Vehicles—E. H. Graeszel

Educational—W. P. Roseman

Art and Floral Hall—W. J. Stube

Farm Products—Simon Molzahn

Privileges—W. A. Beurhaus

 

Admission to Grounds [fees] . . .

  More on Inter-County Fair of 1909 

Inter-County Fair

Watertown Gazette, 09 24 1909

WHS Image PC_256

 

The Inter-County Fair of 1909 now being held on the fairgrounds in this city is one of the best in its history—the exhibits are large and many of the departments are filled to overflowing.  There are many fine free attractions, the horse racing very good, and the attractions along the pike are clean, entertaining and instructive.  The attendance thus far has been a record breaker, that of Wednesday being estimated at 15,000.  Reeseville sent a delegation of nearly 500 and headed by its brass band and Hon. John Hughes marched from up Main and West Main Street and, before the end of the line came in view, Watertown people began to think all the residents of the western part of the state were pouring into the city.  Today Beaver Dam sent a special train load of excursionists headed by its band and large delegations from Jefferson, Ft. Atkinson, Waterloo and Oconomowoc are expected.

 

Not Dead

Watertown Gazette, 09 24 1909

 

The Gazette, with most of the other county papers, last week published the death notice of John Sell of Concord.  We are pleased to state that Mr. Sell is still alive.

 

Plan Great Inland Sea

Near Horicon

Watertown Gazette, 07 16 1909

 

A large inland sea surpassing in extent all the lakes of Wisconsin but Lake Winnebago is the dream of the people of Dodge County.

 

There has recently been organized the Horicon Lake Association and articles of incorporation will be filed soon.  The object is to work with the United States government and as much as possible restore Lake Horicon to its early size and beauty.

 

It is proposed to restore the old Horicon dam which was torn out nearly a half a century ago.  This would create a lake between eighteen and twenty miles long and from six to eight miles wide.  There would be an average depth of from five to six feet over 65,000 acres.

 

The lake would extend from Horicon in Dodge County to Oakfield in Fond du Lac County.  It would furnish a splendid reservoir for the upper reaches of Rock River.

 

Farmers have not made enough out of the hay grown on the marsh to pay taxes and so would be willing to have the lake restored.

 

Should it be done we would have one of the finest sheets of water in the state that would furnish [a] fine fishing ground and be an ideal place for summer homes.

 

  More on Horicon Marsh 

Push Rock River Plan

Watertown Gazette, 09 03 1909

 

Beloit, Wis.:  Rock River may be made navigable from the Mississippi to and through the famous Horicon Marsh.  The project was given additional impetus at a meeting at Rockford of the executive committee of the Rock River Improvement Association.  Citizens of Moline, Dixon, Sterling, Beloit and of the Horicon Marsh district, where it is proposed to make the headwaters by the re-establishment of Horicon Lake, were present and gave assurance of hearty cooperation of their respective communities.  It was agreed it would be necessary for the people living along the river to assist in obtaining data which the government engineers can use for an argument to their superiors in Washington and to present to the Rivers and Harbors Committee.  All the speakers were of the opinion that the government will not ask for return of land that has been filled in.

 

Mass Meeting of German-Americans

 

Watertown Gazette, 11 11 1915

 

Turner Opera House was packed last Sunday evening with people to listen to speeches on “Neutrality” by Robert Wild of Milwaukee and Dr. H. Gerhard of Chicago.  A. F. Ernst, president of the Northwestern College presided.  The resolutions adopted and published below were prepared by D. J. H. Ott, Dr. Arthur Hoermann and Rev. George Sandrock.  Before the meeting the Watertown city band played on the streets, and at the meeting music was furnished by the Northwestern College band.  A feature of the meeting was singing by the audience of “Die Wach am Rhein” and “America.” 

 

Following was the program and resolutions passed:

 

Overture

                                           Northwestern College Band

Address of Welcome

                                           Dr. A. F. Ernst

German Address

                                           Dr. H. Gerhard, Chicago

Vocal Solos……………………

                      Heinrich red Vogler…………………Loewe

                      Vaterlandslied………………….A. Methfessel

                                           William Sproesser

                      Mrs. William Sproesser, Accompanist

 

Die Wach am Rhein

Audience, accompanied by N.W. band

 

English Address………………………..

                                          Robert Wild, Milwaukee

 

The Star Spangled Banner……………………………..

                                         William Sproesser

Mrs. William Sproesser, Accompanist

 

Reading  of Resolutions………………………

 

America……………………………….........

                                              Sung by Audience

                                                     

RESOLUTIONS

 

We, the citizens of the United States, in mass meeting assembled at Watertown, Wis., by a unanimous rising vote adopted the following resolutions referring to our present international relations.

 

   First.  We hold that the American people, being declared friends of all the belligerents, should treat  them all alike and should not suffer any one of our citizens to do anything detrimental to anyone of the warring nations. We therefore, condemn most emphatically the present manufacture and shipping of munitions of war, which have of late assumed such gigantic proportions, as flagrantly violating the spirit of neutrality, since we thereby become and active enemy of one group of belligerents.

 

   Second.  We are firmly convinced that the majority of our citizens do not desire this traffic in arms which makes us an accomplice of this unprecedented slaughter of human beings , and we, therefore, demand that the president  and congress take immediate steps to stop this infamous traffic. 

 

   Third.  We also hold that in furnishing one group of belligerents enormous sums of money we are identifying ourselves with them and thereby become deeply interested in their success, an interest that again makes true neutrality impossible.

 

   Fourth.   We hold that the present time is eminently opportune to establish once for all the principle that “the flag covers the goods,” or that “free ships make free goods;” that our legitimate trade is not subject to the rules and regulations of any foreign power.  We, therefore, demand that the entire navel strength of the country be employed to give effect to these, our rights.

 

   Fifth.   We consider ourselves free and independent citizens of the greatest nation of the world, and we, therefore, condemn as a traitorous act any attempt to make us vassals of England, the “bully of the ocean.”

 

   Sixth.   We hold further that no distinction ought to be made between American citizens of non-British extraction and American citizens of British extraction, that any attempt to disparage one class is against public policy and is sowing the seed of division in our country, thereby  thwarting the happy assimilation of the various elements of our population.

 

   Seventh.   We deplore the attitude of the greater part of the American press, whose ignorance and perversity have done much to bring about the present prostitution of public opinion and the unhappy dissentions under which we are now laboring.

 

Holding these views, we hereby publicly declare that we shall not endorse any one for any office whatsoever who is not in accord with our position and does not pledge his support.

Hutson-Braun Lumber Co. Property

Watertown Daily Times, 07 16 1959

 

An offer to sell to the city of Watertown the Hutson-Braun Lumber Co. property known as 101 West Milwaukee Street was made public today.

 

The premises which are the subject of the offer are located between South Water Street and the Rock River and between West Milwaukee Street and Frederick Street.  Also included are the east 12 feet, approximately, of South Water Street, vacated, and lying just west of the subject premises.

 

Reiss Industries

Watertown Daily Times, 08 15 1981

 

Reiss Industries Inc. has announced plans for expansion of its cold cure methane foam molding facilities at 319 Hart Street, Watertown. The addition of the new custom-designed, high pressure RIM molding equipment will allow Reiss to double its current production capacity. The expansion is being undertaken to keep pace with technological advances and continued sharp annual sales increases. Reiss Industries is a seven-year-old, custom formulator and molder of cold cured urethane products such as crash pads, seat cushions and backs, and furniture components. Its products are distributed nationally through a variety of furniture, transportation, agricultural and construction equipment manufacturers.

 

Watertown Daily Times, 07 16 1984

 

The current $2.1 million expansion project of Reiss Industries, 319 Hart Street, will extend into the recently vacated portion of South Eighth Street.  The Watertown Common Council approved the residential to manufacturing rezoning of the eastern section of the street from a point 100 feet south of Hart Street and proceeding 340 feet south.  The western portion of the street is already zoned manufacturing.

 

Auto Accident Sunday

Watertown Gazette, 09 10 1909

 

Mr. and Mrs. William von Baumbach of Milwaukee started about noon Sunday for a motor car trip to Fox Lake, were they had planned to remain for a week.  On the narrow road near the Rosekrans place just west of Oconomowoc the car was turned out to pass another automobile and going rapidly—in returning to the road the machine skidded and went into the ditch, turning a complete somersault and injuring every one of the occupants, though none were baldy [sic] hurt.  There were in the car besides Mr. and Mrs. Baumbach, Mrs. Baumbach’s maid and the chauffeur, John von Bergen, the latter sustaining the most serious injuries.  All were at once taken to Sanitorium Waldheim, where they were sufficiently recovered to be taken back to Milwaukee the first of the week.  The car itself, considering its fall and the momentum which it had at the time, was not badly damaged.

 

New Reservoir Breaks

Watertown Gazette, 09 17 1909

 

Johnson Creek—The concrete reservoir of the $15,000 waterworks system just completed by the village was so damaged Wednesday afternoon that the entire reservoir will have to be rebuilt.  It is located on a hill and when filled one entire side broke out from the pressure of the water, letting out the water with a rush that did great damage to land adjoining.  Pieces of concrete weighing thousands of pounds were carried hundreds of feet by the water.

 

Native Town Boy

Watertown Gazette, 09 17 1909

 

The man who grows up in his native town is regarded as a boy by his elders until he is well started down the declivity of life that ends in a hole.  The stranger who comes into a place is more often pushed to the front than the young man who has grown up with the town.  This is the reason why so many young men become dissatisfied with their home surroundings and long to cast their lot in other quarters.

 

57th Annual

Jefferson County Fair

 

Watertown Gazette, 10 01 1909

 

The Jefferson County and Rock River Valley Agricultural Society is holding its 57th annual fair at Jefferson this week, commencing on Tuesday and continuing until Friday evening, Oct. 1st.  From present indications it is safe to predict that the 1909 fair of the society will be the largest in its history.  In the speed department [horse racing] there are 98 entries for the nine events, making an average of nearly 11 for each race.  Judging from the horses entered the races this year will be even above the high standard of past years.

 

Mission Fest

Watertown Gazette, 10 01 1909

 

The Mission Fest at the Moravian Church last Sunday was largely attended, large delegations being present from Lake Mills, De Forest, Ebenezer, Pipersville and Mamre.  Rev. O. E. Ridenbach of Lake Mills delivered the sermon at the morning service; Rev. D. C. Meinert of Nazareth, Pa., and Rev. C. V. Leifert of De Forest spoke at the afternoon services and Rev. Gerhard Franke, pastor of the Moravian Church in this city, delivered the sermon at the evening service.  The offerings for the missions amounted to $176.

 

WANTED

Watertown Gazette, 10 01 1909

 

WANTED—a beautiful young lady to fill matrimonial engagement with noble young man, then to start housekeeping with furniture bought at the Central Trading Co. [advertisement]

 

Accidentally Killed

Frank Boelter Crushed to Death

at the Electric Light Plant

Watertown Gazette, 04 03 1903

 

Last Friday morning Frank Boelter, who resided in North Montgomery Street, was killed in the power house of the Watertown Electric Co. at the Rough and Ready Dam.  Boelter was employed by the company as a laborer, and with a number of other men had been at work at the power house putting in position a governor for the water wheels.

 

Some time before the accident Bielter put a strap  around the driving shaft and attached it to the governor to see how the governor worked.  Superintendent Utley remonstrated with him, stating at the same time that it might damage the machinery.  Mr. Utley left Boelter and a short time after the accident occurred.

 

It is supposed his arm caught in the strap he adjusted and he was revolved around the shaft.  One of the workmen, noticing the accident, started to stop the machinery, but Boelter dropped to the floor from the shaft before he could stop the machinery. 

 

A physician was immediately summoned but it was found that nothing could be done for him.  His body was badly crushed and one of his legs and an arm were broken.  He lived only a short time after the accident.

 

Friday afternoon an inquest was held before Justice Henze, the verdict being in accordance with the above facts.

 

Deceased was a brother of John Boelter, who has worked for the Electric company for many years.  He leaves a wife, three children and three step-children.

 

Private Businesses in the West Terminal Area of

Watertown Municipal Airport

Watertown Daily Times, 08 09 1999

 

The public works committee of the Watertown Common Council is recommending the city move forward with introductory designs that would lead to development of private businesses in the west terminal area of the Watertown Municipal Airport.  The committee Tuesday received a report prepared by MSA Professional Services, Inc.  The city hired the firm in May to prepare the introductory development plan at a cost of $28,700.  MSA's plan will be forwarded to the airport commission and then to the council, city engineer Joe Radocay said.  The committee has talked about development of water mains, sanitary sewers and detention ponds in the west terminal area since 1997.

 

J. B. Murphy Co

Watertown Gazette, 10 01 1909

Notice

In the color guessing contest at the Inter-County Fair no one guessed exactly though some were very close, and, as many desire a chance when they have more time, we shall continue it for a time at our store and as soon as correct guesses are made, shall show the name and numbers on the color card.  All are invited to guess free.  Remember there are valuable prizes.  The J. B. Murphy Co.

 

City Sham is not

Found Upon Farms

Watertown Gazette, 10 01 1909

 

No matter how many houses a man may acquire in time in the city he never has a home.  Homes only exist in the country, where one learns to know every tree, every shrub, every stone, and to be able to go away and return years afterwards to find the old landmarks unchanged.  There is no sham [deception] on the farm; there is no excuse to live beyond one’s means in order to make an impression upon one’s neighbors.  Appearances count for naught there and the diamonds and the silks of the city take the form of clean overalls and fresh calicoes . . . Girls and boys can make love much better in calico dresses and clean overalls in the country than in yellow shoes and high collars in the city. 

 

Big Crowd Hears

Most Severe Test

 

Singer’s Voice Put in Comparison With Re-Creation

 

RESULT AMAZES MOST SKEPTICAL

 

Trained Ears Unable To Distinguish Between The Voice And The Reproduction

Other Tests Are Made

 

12 08 1916

 

Saturday evening was the date of the Helen Clark recital at the Turner Opera House, Watertown, when, by previous arrangement, the well known mezzo-soprano consented to sing with the Edison phonograph allowing her voice to be compared with the laboratory re-creation of the wizard’s perfected instrument, the most severe test to which any mechanical tone reproducer was ever subjected.

 

The curious, the critical and the skeptical were there.  All came away convinced that Edison re-creation is as nearly like the original voice as could possibly be imagined.  Every test was greeted with hearty applause from the great audience which packed the Turner to the doors.  The recital was not only a revelation but a rare musical treat as well.

 

Miss Clark sang in unison with her own voice.  Some of the numbers were “Face to Face” by Johnson; “Nightingale Song” by Keller; “For You” by Montague and “Bells of Lee” by Adams.  Except perhaps for the difference in the volume of the tone, one could not be sure when Miss Clark sang and when she did not.  It is true, her lips could be watched, but some of those who sat close to the stage are quite sure that at times Miss Clark formed words with her lips but in singing of “Bells of Lee” the lights went out.  The volume of tone in creased materially at the end.  Perhaps the majority of the audience believe that Miss Clark was adding her voice to that of the instrument, but when the light flashed on again, she was not upon the stage.

 

Perhaps the most charming feature of the entertainment was Miss Clark’s “duet with herself”, “Swing High, Swing Low,” by Bennett.  In singing with this record, she sang a counter melody to that originally recorded in the laboratory.  The duet was a most remarkable one in many respects, for it would be manifestly impossible to find any two artists who would be in such complete accord as to enunciation and interpretation as Miss Clark with herself, or two voices so alike in quality as the same voice.  The blending of tones was perfect.; the whole effect superb, and a fitting climax to a most convincing test.

 

A Happy Man

Watertown Democrat, 09 01 1859

 

Happy is the man who has a little home and a little angel in it on a Saturday night.  A house, no matter how little, no matter how humbly furnished, provided hope is in it, let the winds blow—close the curtains.  What if they are calico, or plain white without border, tassel or any such thing.  Let the rain come down, heap up the fire.  No matter if you have not a candle to bless yourself with, for what a beautiful light glowing coal makes, rendering, clouding, shedding a sunset through the room—just enough to talk by—not loud as in the highways—nor rapid as in the hurrying world, but softly, slowly whispering with pauses between, for the storm without and the thoughts within to fill up.  Then wheel the sofa round before the fire; no matter if the sofa is a settee, uncushioned at that, if so be it just long enough for two, or say two and a half in it.  How sweetly the music of silver bells from the time to come falls on the listening heart then!  How mournfully swells the chimes of “the days that are no more!”

 

Gov. Randall

[accepting nomination]

Watertown Democrat, 09 08 1859

 

[Gov. Randall accepting nomination]  I cannot express to you the obligations I feel for this manifestation of the good will of the Republicans of the state towards me.  I hardly know what to say on such an occasion and under circumstances as these.  As I am a plain talking man you will permit me to talk plainly.  I have been in great doubt [as to] what was my duty to the Republicans in regard to this nomination.  I tell you sincerely I have a much greater desire for the success of the Republican Party this fall than to be re-elected to the office of Governor.  I must in view of what has occurred both before the meeting of the Convention and since, express myself freely and frankly concerning this nomination . . .  That I have committed many errors I have no doubt.  “To err is human.”  But I wish to say here that when I give up the keys to my office to my successor there will be a clear record so far as the integrity of my administration is concerned.  I shall fear no investigations.  I shall ask a committee of my enemies and not my friends to examine it . . .

 

Speakers Planned

Watertown Democrat, 09 15 1859

 

The Citizens of Watertown will have an opportunity to listen to some good speaking during the present autumn.  Among those who will probably come here for the purpose of addressing the people on the political questions of the day, see the names of Hon. Harrison C. Horart, Gov. Randall, E. G. Ryan, Louis P. Harvey, Samuel Crawford, S. D. Hastings, H. S. Palmer, Senator Doolittle and others who know how to talk well and eloquently and cannot fail to interest, whether or not they convince. Let all have a fair hearing and courteous reception.

 

W. G. Wedemeyer

Insurance Agency

Watertown Democrat, 09 01 1859

 

Mr. W. G. Wedemeyer is agent for several first class and reliable insurance companies.  He is now ready to issue policies to all who desire to be well and safely insured against the losses and calamities of fire.

 

Certified Landing System

Watertown Daily Times, 08 20 1999

 

By early next year the Watertown Municipal Airport hopes to claim itself as the first in the nation to use a certified landing system that helps aircraft land in bad weather.  The goal comes five years after the airport was appointed the world's premier site for testing of the innovative system, called the Transponder Landing System (TLS).  In order for the TLS to be certified, testing must be done. For the past two weeks, Federal Aviation Administration employees have been in Watertown testing the TLS.  Last week an FAA pilot was circling the skies above the airport in a twin-engine King Air airplane, doing flight checks for the system.  Along with other tests, the FAA is validating TLS manuals and making sure the system built matches design drawings.

 

The Magnetic Well

At Railroad Junction

Watertown Democrat, 08 14 1873

 

Sometime since an artesian well was sank near the Railroad Junction in this city.  It is now ascertained beyond a doubt, that the subterranean struck supplies a ever flowing stream of water, pure and clear as crystal perfectly colorless and almost tasteless, highly magnetic and possessing rare and extraordinary medicinal properties.  Here the water has been thoroughly tested and tried and has effected several remarkable cures and found generally beneficial in many cases of chronic disease.  Wishing to avoid all statements not strictly accurate and which facts will not amply sustain, we hazard nothing in saying that this magnetic well will prove a “fountain of health” to numerous classes of invalids, and unsurpassed in its curative qualities by those of any other of the celebrated springs new so widely known and drank.  The slight examination already made, more than indicates this and when a more exact and searching analysis shall have been made by skilled and competent-chemists, the claims now put forth will be fully established.  We are glad to learn that steps are being taken to bring this perennial and healing fountain into the universal notice and appreciation which it deserves.  It ought to be widely known that here is a sure and available remedy for rheumatic and other complaints which has been demonstrated useful as a restorative.  We intend to allude to this subject again hereafter.

  More on Magnetic Spring at Junction   

Manager of Magnetic Spring

Watertown Democrat, 08 14 1873

 

Mr. J. H. Sleeper has been appointed by the Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway company Manager of their wonderful Magnetic Spring, near the Junction, in this city.  We call attention to his card in another column.

 

Cross reference:  In 1878 there was a Spring Street near the Junction area.

 

Watertown Mineral Springs

Mile North of Main St

Watertown Democrat, 09 08 1859

 

There are valuable mineral springs within the limits of this city that deserve far more attention than they have yet received.  Thorough and repeated trials have already established the fact that their medicinal qualities are much superior and more beneficial and salutary than the waters of many other places of higher pretensions, but which have long been the favorite resort of multitudes merely because they have had the good fortune to be made fashionable and famous.

 

About a mile north from Main Street, in a retired spot, surrounded by a primitive grove, are three ever-flowing mineral springs, whose waters have been carefully analyzed by Prof. James Chilton of New York, and ascertained to contain carbonate of lime, magnesia, soda and iron; chloride of calcium, magnesium and sodium, and sulphate of zinc, magnesium and soda.  These ingredients have all been discovered in these waters in larger proportions than they have been found in a majority which are drank elsewhere by invalids for their invigorating influence on the system. 

 

If these same springs were bubbling up from the earth and running through the pleasant vales of some eastern state where money is plentier and enterprise more keenly on the watch for speculations of this kind, they would years ago have been widely celebrated for their crystal purity and restorative virtues and thousands would annually make their pilgrimage to them as to an unfailing Fountain of Health, and to many they would prove such. 

 

As it is, these waters gush up from their pebbly sources and only a few who have used them with the most favorable results know of their existence.  They belong to Dr. W. C. Spaulding of this city and we are glad to learn he is about to make an effort to bring them to the notice of the public.  We hope he will meet with the encouragement necessary to render the enterprise successful.  The grounds adjoining these springs are finely situated for such an object.  They are far enough off for quiet and repost, yet near enough to the business part of the city for all ordinary purposes.  From all directions they will be easily accessible by railroad, and with suitable structures put up with reference to accommodating the class who generally assemble at such places, we do not see why a well managed attempt may not succeed. 

 

Here is a salubrious climate, here are waters possessed of healing qualities, here are attractions calculated to render a short stay pleasant.  With these advantages, if the right measures are taken, it is not impossible that large numbers may come here and find relief from many of the ills that flesh is heir to by drinking freely of these cool, clear, health-giving streams.

 

Cross reference:  On 1855 map there is a Spring Park in the Spaulding Add, but this would be more than a mile north of Main St.

 

Water Springs along Main St.

Several near Main Street bridge

 

Watertown Daily Times, 07 25 1931 and 07 31 1931

 

While excavating in the river at the east approach of Main Street bridge workmen uncovered a spring at a depth of about 15 feet which old timers will remember was once an artesian well directly in front of Salick's jewelry store.  In fact, there were several such wells along Main Street in the early days, but were abandoned many years ago.  A section of lead pipe was also uncovered at the same depth but what it was used for no one seems to know.

 

There were several flowing wells on Main Street in the early days.  One was at Salick's, one at Main & Second Streets at the Beurhaus corner, and another, if memory serves right, at Gamm's corner.  Besides these there are two on the first block of W. Main Street and at least two on First Street, at the Bennett Foundry and at the Mendenhall residence.  In fact there were many flowing wells in the city, one of which, a magnetic water well, was located at the Junction.