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Miscellaneous set

Beonda Ida Wilford

Watertown Daily Times, 06 12 1985

 

The Watertown Public Library has been named as a beneficiary in the will of the late Beonda Ida Wilford which could bring the facility in excess of $60,000.  Mrs. Wilford died Sept. 14, 1984, at Marquardt Manor at the age of 91.  She was a former resident at 34 Pawnee Street and was a member of the First Congregational United Church of Christ. T he news was a definite surprise, Library Director Mary Carol Powers said this morning.  She said neither her nor her staff remember Mrs. Wilford as a patron.

 

Dr. Emmett W. Bowen

Removes to Watertown

Watertown Gazette, 11 23 1916

 

Dr. Emmett W. Bowen, formerly a member of the house staff of the Milwaukee county hospital and lately assistant in the state tuberculosis sanatorium at Wales, has removed to Watertown for the practice of medicine.  He has offices at 103 Main Street, second floor of the Evans block.

 

Senator Hubert Humphrey

Followers Visit Daily Times

Watertown Daily Times, 02 20 1960

 

The plant of the Watertown Daily Times yesterday afternoon virtually was engulfed by the followers of U.S. Senator Hubert Humphrey, newspapermen, columnists and representatives of national publications.  They poured out of a special Humphrey chartered bus parked across the street from the Times' building.  Led by the senator, they streamed into the Times' building in what appeared to be endless numbers, clogging the stairway and the second floor hallway until the group could be distributed into the various rooms on the second floor of the building. In all, there were more than 30 persons.  They included Marcus Childs, well known Washington columnist whose columns appear on the editorial page of the Daily Times. The group also included representatives of Newsweek, and the Christian Science Monitor, United Press International and a number of political writers for midwestern and eastern papers.

 

Watertown Turners Centennial

1860 - 1960

Watertown Daily Times, 06 22 1960

 

The Watertown Turners have set the dates for the celebration of their centennial which is being observed this year.  The dates are Sept. 19 to 25 and work on the plans is now well underway.  Chairmen of the various committees in charge of the celebration have held several meetings and the next general meeting of the committee is to be held July 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Turner Hall at which additional phases for the jubilee will be discussed.  Members of the steering committee are:  Marvin Bredow, Clifford Hanson, Emil Kihslinger, Ernest Kubly, Harley Lehmann, Waldo Potter, Henry Schaller, William Schultz, Duane Steffen, Orval Steffen, W. C. Strache and Howard Weihert.

 

Watertown Area Health Services

 and

Horizon Development Group

Watertown Daily Times, 06 22 2000

 

Construction of a three-story apartment building for seniors will begin in August at a site just northeast of Watertown Memorial Hospital.  The 48-unit building is expected to be finished by spring 2001, with occupancy targeted for April.  The apartments, for seniors ages 55 and up, are planned by Watertown Area Health Services and Horizon Development Group of Madison.  They will be modeled after Waterloo's Hawthorne Apartment Homes for Seniors, which were designed for independent-living and charge rent based on a resident's income.  Hawthorne also was planned by Health Services and Horizon.

Specifications for New High School

Watertown Daily Times, 06 21 1985

 

Written educational specifications for a new high school facility were presented to the board of education of the Watertown Unified School District Wednesday evening.  The specifications were drafted by the school district administration and give a “picture” of what local educators believe is necessary in a new or remodeled building.  The specifications will be presented to the school district architectural form which will use them to prepare plans for the three basic options offered by the board.  Those options are to renovate the existing high school, construct a new facility or change the junior high into a high school and the high school into a junior high.

 

Air Show

Watertown Municipal Airport

Watertown Daily Times, 06 12 2000

 

Sunday morning's overcast sky cleared in time for an event marking the first time an aerobatics flying team performed at Watertown Municipal Airport.  Swift Magic Aerobatic Team, a three-aircraft group of pilots from Tennessee that specializes in high-speed stunts, put on an afternoon show of skydiving, formation displays and mock combats during the airport's open house.  The U.S. Air Force Reserve arrived from Milwaukee and gave tours of its C-130, an aircraft flown globally and used to ship cargo and troops.  Also on display was a U.S. Army Blackhawk helicopter that flew in from Madison.  Several thousand people attended the open house, estimated Jeff Baum, airport manager.  It was sponsored by Wisconsin Aviation, Inc., the company that manages the airport.

 

Joel Edwards

Watertown Daily Times, 06 29 2000

 

A Watertown fire captain who has been with the department for three decades retired Tuesday.  “I've been extremely proud to have served the people in the community,” Joel Edwards, 53, said on his last day. “ I've enjoyed my career in the fire service.  It has been good to me and my family.”  He began working for the department in the 1970s as an auxiliary firefighter and climbed department ranks.  For nine years he was a lieutenant before he was promoted to the post of captain five years ago.  Over the years, Edwards has trained in numerous firefighter and paramedic programs and has received several certificates.

 

Cross Reference:

Edwards, Joel       2008, Fire Dept commemorates 150th

 

Jack Nass

Watertown Daily Times, 06 28 1985

 

A Watertown native and lifelong resident will be leading the parade down Main Street starting at 10 a.m. on the Fourth of July.  Jack Nass, 419 North Eighth Street, Watertown, has been selected as the parade marshal.  Except for a tour in the U.S. Navy, Nass has lived in Watertown all his life.

 

Nass said, “I am proud and grateful to be selected as honorary parade marshal for the Fourth of July parade.  As an American, I am proud to be part of the celebration on such a significant date, and am grateful for the liberty and freedom that it represents.  I am also proud to be part of this great community and appreciate the opportunity to share this day with so many friends.”  He was born in 1937, the day after the Fourth of July, in Watertown.  He is a 1955 graduate of Watertown High School.

 

Oldest Police Auxiliary

Watertown Daily Times, 06 28 2000

 

Watertown has the oldest police auxiliary group in the state.  The Watertown Police Reserve, originally known as the Watertown Auxiliary police group, has been ongoing consecutively from 1942.  The Milwaukee Police Auxiliary is the next oldest organization, having been formed after World War II.  The American Legion was founded in 1919 and since there was no group to give the veterans of World War I military honors, a firing squad was started to provide the duty.  The squad was composed of members that could easily get away from work for funerals.

 

A Genuine Republican

Watertown Democrat, 08 23 1860

 

A genuine Republican—a full blooded African—lectured in this city a few weeks since.  His object was to prove the value of the services of the negroes in the Revolutionary War—and get money.  He was a pretty shrewd fellow and kept his eye on the main chance—never overlooking No. 1.  After he had got nearly through his talk, he closed by proposing to take up a collection.  Said he—“Brudder R___ and Brudder W___, please pass around de hat, be sure to get those that haint holes in the bottom; don’t be in a hurry to go round, if any of the other Brudders haint any change, wait a moment to give ‘em a chance to borrow, so that all can do something for the good cause in general and me in particular.  A dime will do when a quarter aint handy.”  The thing took and the darky made quite a raise, though his political associates tried to give him the cold shoulder when it came to the real test.  Such as attempted to go away before the last act was over were politely informed by the ebony speaker that he hoped they “Hadn’t forgot to leave a little loose change as a memorial of their appreciation of talent in a white black man!"

 

The Harvest

Watertown Democrat, 08 02 1860

 

The Harvest is progressing.  The weather continues fair, and the broad wheat fields are being rapidly relieved of the golden burden.  Most of the grain is now fully ripe, and as it is gathered, the most favorable expectations, both as to its quantity and quality are fully realized.

 

One Dollar Notes

Altered to "Three"

Watertown Democrat, 08 02 1860

 

Just Out—One dollar notes, of the Jefferson County Bank, altered to "Three."  They have a Blacksmith on the right and Harvester on the left end, likely to deceive.  The change is so skillfully made that it requires close inspection to detect the fraud.

 

First Maxwell Street Day

 

Watertown Daily Times, 07 09 1960

 

Watertown's first Maxwell Street Day sprang into being early this morning under fair skies and the weather so comfortable that everyone who had any fears about what conditions it would be held under promptly dismissed them, for the day was perfect weatherwise.  The Weather Man certainly co-operated with the committee from the Watertown Chamber of Commerce which sponsored the event.  Even before 9 a.m., the starting time, when business men were still lining up their outdoor displays of merchandise and some were stringing pennants and banners, the crowds began to form and the people kept coming.  By mid-forenoon the crowds that jammed the downtown area had grown in proportion and at times it was difficult to push one's way along the sidewalks.

 

Millet

Watertown Democrat, 08 16 1860

 

Mr. M. C. Scott of Farmington has this year sown five acres of millet on new and unplowed land and expects to cut 20 tons to be used as food for cattle. He has shown us a cluster of stalks averaging five feet in height and streaming with blades of grass.  In some countries of Europe millet forms a very important article of agriculture.  As food for cattle it is considered in many respects superior to hay.  If our soil and climate should prove to be adapted to its growth its cultivation will be found profitable and important to those who engage extensively in raising cattle for market.  We also notice that a number of farmers have small fields of Hungarian grass.  We are glad to see such experiments tried.  It indicates a disposition on the part of the farmers to seek out the best and most useful crops and engage in their cultivation.  If these foreign varieties of grasses should prove as valuable here as they are known to be elsewhere, their general introduction will be a common benefit.

 

The Next State Fair

Watertown Republican, 09 07 1860

 

The tenth annual exhibition of the Wisconsin State Agricultural Society will be held in Madison during the last week of September.  The grounds occupied in 1858 have been enlarged and will be elegantly fitted up for the occasion.  It is expected that this exhibition will be the best of any ever yet made in this state and we have no doubt there will likewise be a larger turnout than ever before.  Besides the sales of improved animals at auction, there will be a grand parade of those taking premiums, and a plowing match which it is intended shall constitute an interesting feature of the exhibition.  Arrangements have been made with the railroads to carry passengers and stock at half fare and it is hoped that people will turn out by the thousands and avail themselves of this opportunity for seeing the best agricultural exhibition that Wisconsin has ever had.

 

The Rails That Lincoln Split

Watertown Republican, 09 14 1860

 

[advertisement] The rails that Lincoln split will be wanted this Fall to fence out an enraged democracy, but the rest of your spare timber, burnt to ashes, will find a ready market at my store, in exchange for which you can get an article that will prove “a penny saved is two pence earned.”  Ashes are a legal tender with me and you can do better with them than the money, for the latter don’t have to go through but one process to spend it, the former a six month’s schooling.  Collaterals are all the go.  I mean to sell at fair profits.  [I] don’t do business for fun, or to turn sharp corners, and mean to keep the concern running.  For certain, until I can make it worth while to stop, I am sensible of a great run on teas, and to keep up my reputation, I have determined to meet the Japanese embassy at Niagara Falls this month under the inspiration which that great wonder creates, give them some article suited to the taste of lovers of the leaf in Watertown, so that on their return I can have something extra.  After my return you will find everything in the crockery and grocery line, as cheap as is sold in town.  Don’t pay the fiddler for others to dance.  Come where you can get the worth of your money.  C. H. Lord.

 

To Unveil Monument to Father Corby

Watertown Gazette, 09 23 1910

 

It is expected that the monument to be erected to the memory of Rev. Father Corby on the Gettysburg battle field will be ready the latter part of next month and the unveiling ceremony will be held at that time or early in November.  The memorial is now being modeled by Samuel A. Murray, of Philadelphia.  It is of heroic size of bronze, representing the brave priest in the act of bestowing a blessing.

 

The figure will be mounted on the rock from which Chaplain Corby gave the general absolution to the Catholic soldiers of the Irish Brigade as they were about to march to the support of the Union Army on July 2, 1863.  The statue will cost about $5,600, and more than $4,000 has already been subscribed.  An effort is being made to complete the fund at once.

 

The design has been approved by the War Department.  It will contain the following inscription: "To the memory of Rev. William Corby, C.S.C., Chaplain Eighty-eighth Regiment, New York Infantry, Second Brigade, First Division, Second Corps, The Irish Brigade, July 2, 1863."

 

[Father Corby was pastor of St. Bernard’s from 1872-77 and again from 1881-86]

 

Douglas Club / Democratic Club

Watertown Democrat, 08 02 1860

 

The Democrats of this city are requested to meet in Bogle's Hall, at 7 1/2 o'clock next Saturday evening, the 4th inst., for the purpose of forming a Douglas club.  We [Watertown Democrat newspaper] trust a large and prompt attendance will be the response to this call.  It is now time to prepare for the battle we must fight.  This city and county can and should be carried by increased Democratic majorities.  Local as well as general considerations ought to urge the friends of Douglas and popular sovereignty to be active and constant in their efforts to promote a cause eminently worthy of their best endeavors. 

 

Thorough organization—manly [mainly] appeals to the intelligence and patriotism of the people—clear and truthful statements of the real questions now at issue—are the means that we must use to accomplish the ends we have in view.  Our position, both for the present and future, is commanding and impregnable.  We stand on National ground.  In every state in the Union we are gaining in numbers, influence and talent.  Some of the most eloquent voices are pleading for us in the east, west, north and south.  Let us not be idle in Wisconsin. 

 

We must act as if we felt and comprehended the full importance of the occasion, and by the result show how utterly without foundation is the boast of the New York Tribune, that this state is sure to give 20,000 majority for the Republicans.  We know how wild and reckless is any such calculation.  Zeal, work, sincerity and confidence may yet turn the scale in our favor, and that is a consummation worth toiling.

  More on Douglas club / Democratic club 

Organization of a Democratic Club

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

Pursuant to a call of the Democratic Committee, a large number of Democrats of the city of Watertown assembled at Bogle’s Hall on Saturday evening, the 4th inst., for the purpose of forming a Democrat Club and giving a more effective support to Stephen A. Douglas and Herschel V. Johnson, the National Democratic candidates for President and Vice President.

 

Constitution . . .

 

The committee also recommended the election of the following gentlemen as officers of the club:

 

Vice President, 1st Ward, Myron B. Williams

Vice President, 2d Ward, Henry Bertram

Vice President, 3d Ward, Thomas Moore

Vice President, 4th Ward, Peter V. Brown

Vice President, 5th Ward, Charles Jacobi

Vice President, 6th Ward, Charles Beekman

Vice President, 7th Ward, John Miller

Corresponding Secretary, D. W. Ballou, Jr.

Recording Secretaries, S. W. Shorey, E. Rothe

Treasurer, Joseph Salick

 

. . . The President of the club then took the chair and made a short and appropriate speech, acknowledging the compliment just bestowed upon him, and setting forth the purposes, position and prospects of the Democratic Party of the Union.  Mr. Emil Rothe followed in an able and interesting speech in German, which was listened to with marked attention by those who speak that language.  After three cheers for Douglas the club adjourned to meet again at the same place next Saturday evening, when a general attendance is respectfully requested.

 

Regarding Jefferson

Watertown Democrat, 06 21 1860

 

We are pleased to say a good word in behalf of our neighboring town and to see the prosperity with which she seems to be favored.  We were there the other day and saw with our own eyes the improvements that are going on.  We noticed the cellars dug and foundations laid for two new brick stores which are to surpass in elegance anything in that line that they have there now.  They have also built two or three new churches within a year, besides which we saw more or less in the way of improvement in private residences, some of which are now being erected while others have but recently been finished.  There seems to be a good deal of activity in business, though just now more quiet than it has been through the spring months.  They are anticipating a heavy fall trade there, and with a good harvest we see no reason to doubt their having it.

 

A Narrow Escape

Watertown Democrat, 08 02 1860

 

Last Thursday morning, the 26th ult., two small  boys, the sons of Mr. Steinfeld, accidentally fell into the river, under the west end of Main Street Bridge.  They were first discovered by a daughter of Mr. Jacob Jussen, who immediately gave the alarm and called for help.  Carl, a lad about eight years old, was immediately rescued by Mr. W. D. Sproesser, but the other, Henry, about a year younger, went down where the water was near six feet deep.  One or two who were first on the ground made unsuccessful attempts to get him by diving, but he remained there until Frederick Karst took him out.  As near as we can ascertain, he was in the water from six to eight minutes.  When taken out he appeared lifeless.  Fortunately, Mr. Edward Johnson, Dr. Quinney, an Indian physician, Mr. A. Baum, Mr. T. Dervin and others were present, who instantly began the work of resuscitation.   Mr. Jussen freely opened his house and rendered all the assistance in his power.  As such incidents as this may occur here again, and a knowledge of the proper method of treatment may be useful to all, we have procured from Mr. Johnson the following statement of the course pursued on this occasion.  The boy was far gone, and probably if he had remained a minute or two longer in the water his recovery would have been impossible.

 

The following treatment was employed in the effort to resuscitate Henry Steinfeld which was successful: 

 

The boy was divested of his clothing and was immediately wrapped in a blanket rung out of hot water.  Artificial respiration was then used for a short time.  He was next placed on a barrel, the face being downward and rolled backward and forward until a large quantity of water and air was expelled.  Warm water was constantly poured on the blanket which soaked through, giving him the benefit of its heat without the risk of exposure.  Friction was also constantly kept up.  Artificial respiration was again resorted to, and again he was placed on the barrel, and in about 12 minutes after the  treatment commenced the first signs of life were noticed.  The first efforts at respiration were so feeble and far between that artificial respiration was employed to fill up the intervals until the breathing became a matter of fact, when he was allowed to struggle for himself.  The after treatment was advised by Dr. Cody, under whose skillful management, and the great attention of Mr. Jacob Jussen, the patient has so far recovered as to be thought out of danger.

 

The father of these children was in the country harvesting when the nearly fatal casualty happened.  The mother requests us to extend to all who aided in saving her sons her heartfelt thanks for their kindness.  The afflicting loss she has been spared, has filled her mind with a sense of the deepest gratitude.

 

Thanksgiving 1859

Watertown Democrat, 11 17 1859

PROCLAMATION—THANKSGIVING

 

Another year, with its varied experiences and vicissitudes, has nearly gone, the seed time and harvest have passed away, and the products of the earth more abundant and excellent, in many respects [more] than usual, have been gathered in.  Our state has been favored by an overruling Providence with exemption from pestilence, or any prevailing disease, and the commercial and financial distress, under which our land has so long suffered, seems to be approaching an end.  As a state we have been free from evil disturbances, and men have gone about their daily avocations in peace and quietness.  As a nation, too, we have been exempted from the scenes of blood which have been the result in other lands of the shock of contending hosts.

 

It is right that we should as a people render the tribute of our thanks to the Author of all good, for the establishment and continuance of our free institutions, for the general health and prosperity of our people, for the blessings of peace, for the privileges of free education, and freedom to worship God according to the dictates of conscience, and for all the unnumbered blessings, individual and national, so bountifully showered upon us.

 

Therefore, in accordance with the time-honored usage, I do hereby recommend to the people of Wisconsin that they observe Thursday, the 24th day of November, as a day of Thanksgiving, and that,  abstaining from  their secular avocations on that day, they unite in their several localities in grateful praise to Almighty God, for his constant care and abundant mercies.

 

By the Governor,

Alex. W. Randall

  More on Thanksgiving 1859 

Watertown Democrat, 11 17 1859

 

The people of Wisconsin will be called upon next Thursday to render their annual tribute of Thanksgiving to God for the bounties and blessings of the year now rapidly passing away.  With them will unite many of the sister states of this Union.  A noble and grateful hymn of praise should arise from so great a multitude of prosperous and happy people, for once more have the hills, valleys and prairies of the West resounded with the cheering shouts of the harvest home.  To the many causes for general thanksgiving, every one can doubtless add something personal, for which to return sincere thanks to the Giver of all Good.  Every picture has dark shadings, but the remembrance of the sunshine and not the clouds should claim our thoughts on such occasions. 

 

Life has many seasons of pure, unmingled happiness, and Thanksgiving should be one of these.  One day at least of glowing gratitude untinged by murmurings or repinings, should the heart offer yearly to the Father and Benefactor of us all.  Away, then, with gloomy forebodings, useless griefs, and hopeless regrets.  Banish all the crowd of jarring emotions, and let the tide of joy and gratitude course through every vein, beat with every pulsation, gleam in every flash of the eye, and speak in every word from the lips.  Let us give no reluctant thanks to the Almighty for his long, continued and never failing kindness, and may the next be to you, reader, friend or neighbor, a Thanksgiving indeed.

 

We are requested to state that on the 24th inst, there will be religions services in both the English and German languages in Rev. C. Sans' church [Rev. Christian Sans, St. Mark’s], commencing at 10 ½ o'clock a.m..  The different churches are requested to unite on that day, which will make it one of unusual interest.  A general attendance is respectfully solicited.

 

At St. Paul's Church there will also be religious services at the same hour . . .

 

A Good Beginning and a Bright Ending

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

The Sabbath School Pic Nic of the Congregational Church to Pine Lake last week was a brilliant affair.  Nearly two hundred teachers and scholars were present and seldom have we seen a serene summer’s day spent more to the satisfaction of both young and old.  There were neither clouds in the sky or on the faces of any of the party.  A beautiful and romantic spot was the grove chosen for the festivities of the occasion.  The ground is covered with a growth of both large and small trees—some towering in the air and overshadowing a goodly space around them and others forming delightful bowers, inviting repose.

 

Nearby is a clear and cool lake, the crystal waters of which sparkle in the sunlight and give an exhilarating freshness to the breezes that constantly play off their surface.  The children were in high glee—they were happy.  After they had safely returned and all were collected on the platform of the Watertown railroad depot they gave three loud and heartfelt cheers for S. S. Merrill, the popular and enterprising railroad Superintendent, who took every opportunity to add to the happiness of the company, and by his care and liberality placed all under obligations to him.  If sincere thanks, uttered all at once by hundreds of cheerful voices, can pay for such attention and kindness, Mr. Merrill received some part of his reward.  For such a merry shout as went up at the mention of his name, we think we should be inclined to give a receipt in full. 

 

On that youthful group that morning’s sun rose without a cloud and went down without a shadow.

 

More Freight Cars

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

Twenty new freight cars have just been built in this city at the machine shop of the Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Company.  They are constructed to afford additional facilities for promptly doing the largely increased amount of carrying business which it is anticipated will be furnished by the immense crops now being harvested.  From Oconomowoc to Watertown, and thence along the two branches of railroad running to Columbus and Sun Prairie, no more fertile and productive grain region can be found in the state.  The entire country [county?] can be converted into a broad wheat field, and in fact is little short of that now.  Take a stand on any elevation and the eye ranges widely over a rich soil glowing with the golden shocks, now huddled closely together like so many little pyramids.  Within the circle of vision thousands on thousands more bushel of wheat have this year been reaped than were ever gathered before.  It is to take this teeming surplus to market that Mr. S. S. Merrill—a railroad superintendent who always foresees the public wants and prepares to meet them—has made this additional preparation of freight cars.  They will soon be needed, and have enough to do.

  More on Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Machine Shop [car shop] 

Watertown Car Shop of

Milwaukee, Watertown & Baraboo Valley RR

True Enough

Watertown Republican, 10 19 1860

 

The Milwaukee Sentinel of the 14th has the following item:

 

"The new freight cars of the Milwaukee, Watertown and Baraboo Valley Railroad are certainly the neatest and most substantial of any cars used in Wisconsin.  We do not know where the credit for their manufacture belongs.  In fact everything about the rolling stock of this road has an air of substantial neatness that speaks well for its managers. The road is now doing a large freight business, and when completed to its final destination—the Mississippi River at Dubuque—it is surely destined to become one of the very best paying railroads in the Northwest."

 

For the information of the Sentinel, we would like to state that the cars it speaks of were manufactured in Watertown at the car shop of the company, whose property they are.

 

The Sentinel pays no more than a deserved compliment to the management of the company and hits the nail precisely on the head when it says that theirs is to become one of the most profitable and best paying roads in the state when completed to its final destination.  It is in good hands now, and managed with care and prudence.  The immense wheat crop of Wisconsin, which is now being rapidly moved, is furnishing the road with all the business they can possibly do.  The superintendent is constantly making additions to the rolling stock of the road, in order to keep pace with the requirements of the increasing freight traffic upon it.

 

Milwaukee and Grand Haven Route

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

Travelers going East or coming West, who like a little change and variety in a journey of more than a thousand miles, should take the Milwaukee and Grand Haven route.  All the arrangements on this line are made and carried out with special reference to the convenience of passengers going over it.  There is no delay or interruption.  You can step from the railroad car on to the commodious steamboat, rapidly sweep over the cool and clear waters of Lake Michigan, and again glide over the smooth iron highway to your destination.  Mr. D. M. Belden is the agent of this line for this city and will furnish through tickets to all wanting them.

 

Letter from Portland

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

We do not wish to muddle with any controversy in which others may be engaged.  We publish the communication below in compliance with a request of Mr. Chalmers, the postmaster of Portland, who desires to make a statement of his side of the case, in explanation of the course he saw fit to pursue:

 

Portland, Aug. 4th, 1860

 

Mr. J. W. Lawton:

 

Sir:  Your verbose and tautological reply to my brief note startled me to no slight degree.  I thought that I had been civil and obligating, at least when I wrote.  I intended to be so.  I presumed that instead of giving cause of offence, I was actually conferring a favor, and whatever view you might have taken of my communication, surely at least you ought to have replied, if at all, with something approaching common decency and gentlemanly propriety.  Assuredly I do not envy the claim which you possess of good breeding or respectability.

 

The first numbers of the Watertown Republican came to this post office as specimens, and if you had cared to comply with the law made for such a case, you would have pre-paid the postage.  Pray, Sir, in your zeal for law and right, why did you not do so?  Your paper at this office, in nearly every case, was either promptly refused or shortly returned and as I knew that you had not one subscriber at this place, regard for your interest, as well as respect to my own responsibility, induced me to take some decided and unmistakable step in the business. 

 

When I returned one package unopened I did so the full persuasion that not one copy was expected or would be called for.  Mr. Lewis Hamnifield [?] and every other person who gets his mail at this office knows that its business is invariable conducted with the strictest integrity and regularity.  Besides, Sir, allow me to say that what I have done in this matter I have done advisedly and in deference to the fact that I am a humble official in the Free State of Wisconsin.

 

     Robert Chalmers

 

Runaways in our Streets

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

The runaways in our streets exhibit too much carelessness on the part of those driving teams.  Last Saturday a man came near being badly injured or killed by a horse taking a start as he was getting into his wagon, which was stove [broken] to pieces in quick time.  Last Sunday a German had a leg broken in two places in consequence of sporting a little too lively with a span of young colts.  When horses are so liable to be frightened extra care should be taken to guard against accidents of this kind.

 

Teacher’s Institute

Watertown Democrat, 08 09 1860

 

Chancellor Barnard, of the State University, has appointed a session of the Teacher’s Institute in this city to commence on Monday, the 27th inst., and continue one week.  It is hoped that Mr. Barnard himself will be able to be present, which will largely contribute to the interest of the occasion.  Addresses may be expected from J. B. Pradt, the editor of the Wisconsin Journal of Education, A. J. Craig, of the Superintendent’s Department, and others, on subjects connected with the best methods of education. 

 

As invitations will be extended to the teachers of not only this and Dodge County, but to all in this vicinity, probably there will not be far from one hundred present during the exercises of the Institute.  We have no doubt that our citizens will cheerfully give them the attention and hospitality necessary to make their brief stay pleasant and useful.

 

They come on a mission of vital importance to the welfare of all communities—it is to better qualify themselves to impart to the young those elements of instruction which constitute the basis of intelligence and knowledge.  What they do for themselves they are doing for the youth of the land, and every family that can conveniently entertain one or more as guests should make arrangements to do so.  The improvement of our common schools—the elevation of the standard of the teacher’s qualifications—are matters in which every parent is concerned, and all should willingly contribute to results so desirable and beneficent.  We understand that Mr. R. L. Reed will in a few days call on our citizens to ascertain the names of such as feel disposed to accommodate the delegates from abroad who will shortly visit us to take part in the proceedings of this Institute.  We bespeak for him a cordial reception and such a response to his demands as will be alike honorable and hospitable.  We all know the value of the work in which teachers are engaged and let us show our appreciation of their great and essential services by welcoming them with the warmth and consideration to which they are justly entitled.

  More on Teacher’s Institute 

Order of the Institute Exercises

Watertown Democrat, 08 16 1860

The Teacher’s Institute, under the direction of Prof. C. H. Allen, will be opened on Monday evening, Aug. 27th, by an address on the subject of education and will continue through the week.

 

During each day there will be exercises conducted by competent and experienced teachers, illustrative of the principles and methods of education applicable to public schools of different grades.

 

Each evening will be devoted to an address or discussion on some educational subject which the public generally are invited to attend.  Teachers, superintendents and others interested in the cause, in this and adjoining counties, will be welcomed and freely entertained by the citizens of Watertown and every means used to make the session pleasant and profitable to all.

 

Those preparing to teach will find nothing so well adapted to fit them for their work as a week spent in the Institute.

 

Each member is requested to bring slate, pencil and memorandum book for taking notes and a fourth reader.

 

Committees will be in readiness on the arrival of the [railroad] cars to wait on those from abroad.

 

It is hoped that the citizens of Watertown will attend at least the evening sessions, as the subjects to be considered are those of vital importance to all.  To those who would lay deep and broad the foundations on which to build for future time, the public school occupies no second place.  We invite them to make a grand rally, to help forward the cause of education in our midst.

 

Death of John Campbell

Watertown Democrat, 08 16 1860

A Fatal Accident

 

Last Monday Mr. John Campbell of this city took the freight train on the NorthWestern Railroad with the intention of making a visit to the village of Ripon.  When he arrived at Juneau he stepped off the cars for the purpose of taking a look at the new mill that has recently been built near the depot at that place.  When the train got under motion he attempted to jump on one of the platform cars but by some misstep he fell across the track and three cars ran over his body just below the stomach, causing almost instant death.  Mr. Campbell was a young man about 26 years of age and for two or three years has carried on a tailoring establishment.  He had a large number of friends in this city and enjoyed the respect and esteem of all who knew him.

  More on John Campbell 

Needless Misrepresentation

Watertown Democrat, 08 23 1860

 

The Milwaukee Sentinel and Horicon Argus publish statements relative to the railroad accident which resulted in the death of John Campbell last week that are pure fabrications and destitute of truth.  The conductor of that train showed no want of sympathy or regret that the sad event occurred, though it was none of his fault.  The train, we are informed, had stopped nearly fifteen minutes at the Juneau depot when the conductor gave the signal for the engineer to move the train ahead so to give the passengers an opportunity to get aboard. 

 

Instead of going to the platform, the conductor and Mr. Campbell both attempted to jump on to one of the platform cars—the latter making a miss move and falling across the track, just before the wheels.

 

These are the facts of the case, as we learned them from the Hon. Charles Billinghurst, who assures us that it is wrong to cast the least censure on any one connected with the road.  Out of these incidents a story, false from the beginning to end, has been circulated, representing that the conductor of the train showed a total want of feeling, lightly exclaiming “only a man killed,” and passed on without paying any attention to the distressing occurrence which had so suddenly deprived an estimable young man of his life.

 

While we are about it, we will dispose of another matter.  Every little while we see an article in the Milwaukee papers complaining of a want of courtesy on the part of the conductors on the Chicago and NorthWestern Railroad.  There is no ground for such grumbling, and originating where it does, its motives and objects may be easily discovered.  We do not believe any road can be named that has secured the services of a more intelligent, attentive and careful set of conductors, without a single exception.  We know that travelers over that line never fail to speak of them in the most favorable terms.  They are always ready to impart any information that may be desired, and do any kindness in their power.  They are respected as gentlemen and popular as conductors.  That is more than can with truth be said of some roads that run from Milwaukee to the Mississippi, if common report is authority and general dissatisfaction, openly expressed, are any evidence.

 

Cross Reference:  John Campbell was among the first members of the Fire Dept

 

Instantly Killed

Watertown Gazette, 09 23 1910

 

Last Monday afternoon at 4:30 o'clock Lawrence Cunningham, chairman of the town of Shields, was instantly killed at Richwood by a freight train.  He was waiting for a passenger train to pass the crossing and stood on another track while a freight train came from an opposite direction and struck him.  His skull was fractured and he died instantly.  Mr. Cunningham was one of the most highly esteemed residents of the town of Shields and his sudden death is greatly regretted.  He was 63 years of age and is survived by his wife and four grown-up children.  Thursday morning his funeral took place from the Catholic church at Richwood and his remains were interred in St. Bernard's Cemetery, this city.

 

The Rev. Shepard Wells

Watertown Democrat, 08 16 1860

 

The Rev. Shepard Wells of Columbia, Tenn., General Agent of the American Tract Society, delivered an able and interesting discourse last Sabbath evening in the Congregational Church on the progress of religious truth in the southwestern states—Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, and the wide Indian Territory stretching beyond that last named state.

 

. . . Where ignorance once abounded intelligence now prevails.  There has been progress and improvement in the south as well as in the north.

 

The most deeply interesting part of his discourse related to the condition of the Indians in the territory set apart for their habitation by the Federal Government.  He had visited those tribes in the far west and found they had, for the most part, abandoned hunting and fishing as a means of support and engaged extensively and generally in agriculture.  They had supplied themselves with farming implements, schools, academies and churches.  They were gradually relinquishing the use of their native language and learning the English.  Their houses are well built, they dressed as Americans generally dress, they taught the elements of an English education in their schools and for all benevolent objects their contributions were liberal.

 

. . . He probably would not object to state the results of his long study of the system of slavery and its influence on both the white and the African races.  Thought not a slave-holder himself, he is evidently a gentlemen who keeps his eyes and ears open and is not afraid to speak fairly, plainly, truly—nothing extenuating or setting down aught in malice.

 

Oconomowoc

Delightful and Flourishing

Watertown Democrat, 08 16 1860

 

A Pic Nic Party, last Friday, made an excursion to Oconomowoc—one of the most delightful and flourishing villages in Wisconsin.  We need not sketch its location in the center of a cluster of small, pure, forest-fringed lakes—sparkling spots in the midst of a world of verdure and foliage.  The day was fine, bright and balmy—just breezy enough to temper the warm, dazzling atmosphere with a refreshing and invigorating coolness.  All nature appeared to wear a winning look of beauty, and in harmony with the scenery around him, Mr. S. S. Merrill was in his happiest mood of kindness and courtesy, while his accomplished and intelligent lady bestowed every attention on her numerous guests that could in any way contribute to their gratification and enjoyment . . .

 

The members of the company—each with his or her ample basket filled with the best the season afforded—stepped into the cars about 9 o’clock in the morning and after a short but pleasant ride reached the place of destination.  Soon every sail and row-boat of La Belle Lake was filled with passengers to the island that had been set apart for Pic Nic celebrations.  Once safely there, then all were free to enjoy themselves as they choose.  Some rambled, some picked up shells and pebbles strewn along the wave-washed shores—some sought rest beneath shady bowers . . .

 

Those cool, crystal waters, which are deep and ever-flowing—abound with the choicest finny tribes, excepting the speckled brook trout, of course, and the way the bass, pickerel, pike and perch left their liquid bowers, took the hook of “my lady,” came fluttering and trembling into the air, and then into the chowder kettle, showed they were willing to be put to some useful purpose after they had been caught.

 

The last thing we recollect of the whole gay affair were the sounds of joyous voices blending in harmony together while giving three hearty cheers to Mr. and Mrs. Merrill, expressive of the sincere thanks all felt for the opportunity of passing at least one bright summer’s day so pleasantly and so far from whatever could mar the happiness of any present.

 

Locals In Brief

Watertown Democrat, 08 23 1860

 

—Our less frequented streets and commons are becoming infested with the may weed, which is about going to seed.  Why would it not be a good plan to get up a party and devote a day to the utter extermination of this homely and useless plant, which is spreading in every direction altogether too rapidly.  It ought to be cut down and burned up.

 

—In this vicinity the grain fields are shorn of their golden burden and harvesters are returning from their heavy labors.  On the prairies there is yet considerable wheat uncut, but the weather continues fine for outdoor operations.

 

—Draft pear trees about here are bearing abundantly this season, some being overloaded and bent down.  The question as to the practicability of successfully cultivating this choice variety of fruit may be considered settled.

 

Bus Shelter

Watertown Daily Times, 07 30 1985

 

Construction may soon begin on a $52,000 bus shelter equipped with lavatories and a 12-person seating area at the intersection of Third and Madison streets [118 N Third].  The $52,000 construction bid from H.F. Mallow and Sons has been recommended for acceptance by the Watertown Transit Commission and will be considered for final approval Tuesday by the common council.  Despite being about $4,000 over budget, the bid was the lowest of three submitted and was approved by both the commission and the state Department of Transportation.

  More on Bus Shelter 

Watertown Daily Times, 08 06 1985

 

Construction of an enclosed bus shelter equipped with rest rooms on Third Street at Main Street should be complete by the end of the year.  The Watertown Common Council Tuesday evening approved the bid of $52,000 from H.F. Mallow and Sons to construct the 24 by 28 foot facility.  Eighty percent of the cost of the project will be paid by the state Department of Transit with the remaining funds, $10,400, to come from the city.  The construction cost was $4,300 more than originally estimated but Alderman David Lenz, member of the city transit commission, said the added expense was necessary to make the shelter less susceptible to vandalism.

 

Baseball

Watertown Gazette, 07 29 1910

 

On Sunday at Washington Park, in the 8th inning, with the score 5 to 2 in favor of Watertown in the baseball game with the Sisson & Sewells of Milwaukee, the umpire gave the game to Watertown, declaring the score 9 to 0, on account of the Milwaukee club refusing to play longer.  A Milwaukee batter interfered with the ball and he was declared out, which was disputed by the visiting club, and they refused to finish the game.

 

Firefighters

Muscular Dystrophy Association

Watertown Daily Times, 07 29 2010

 

Firefighters to raise funds for neuromuscular disease The Watertown Fire Department will go beyond the call of duty in August when they join in the battle against neuromuscular disease.

 

Watertown Local No. 877 will remove their boots to collect money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association's Fill-the- Boot program on Friday, Aug. 6, from 2 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Friday, Aug. 20, from 2 to 6 p.m.  The firefighters will accept donations from motorists and pedestrians at the intersection of South Church Street and Bernard Street on those dates.

 

The department hopes to raise $16,000 during this year's collection.  All donations will benefit local Muscular Dystrophy Association clients and services like sending children and young adults to Muscular Dystrophy Association Summer Camp, funding clinic visits at UW Hospital, and financing wheelchair repairs.

 

Muscular Dystrophy Association's Fill-the-Boot program is supported by the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) and nonunion fire departments across North America. Last year, Wisconsin firefighters raised $600,000 for Muscular Dystrophy Association.

 

In August 1954, Inter-national Association of Fire-fighters named Muscular Dystrophy Association as their "charity of choice" and their signature fundraising activity has been the Muscular Dystrophy Association Fill-the-Boot drive. The International Association of Firefighters has emerged as the single largest sponsor of Muscular Dystrophy Association, contributing nearly $300 million since 1954 - all to benefit Jerry's kids.

 

Benjamin Douglas

Watertown Republican, 09 07 1860

 

Accident—Last Saturday a man named Benjamin Douglas, living at Johnson Creek, in this county, was thrown from his wagon when on his way to the depot with a load of wheat, falling directly under the wheel which passed directly over his head, mutilating and injuring him very badly.  The only strange thing about the matter is that the man was not instantly killed.  There were thirty bushels of wheat in the wagon at the time.  At last account Mr. D. was alive, though he was not expected to recover.

 

Word to the Farmer's Wife

Watertown Gazette, 04 29 1910

 

We have word to say to the farmer's wife.  If your husband sticks up his nose at the meals, lead him up to the feed cooker by the ear and tell him to drench his appetite with pig fodder.  Some men will sit down in their own home before a nicely cooked meal and roar from soup to apple pie about the way things taste, but they will go to town and let a fifteen cent dinner soak into their esophagus without a murmur.  We knew a man who kept this up for a number years and one day his wife reached over the spoon holder and jerked him into several kinds of dishabille before the whole family.  When he got his jaw back into alignment and picked his false teeth out of the gravy he was a changed man, becoming so mellow in spirit that he offered to go four rounds with a soup bone.  As a rule we deplore violence in the home, but sometimes the only way to get along with a cross-grained feeder is to beat him up with a mop handle.

 

Popular Sovereignty Doctrine

Extracts from Speech of Carl Schurz

Watertown Democrat, 08 30 1860

 

Delivered in New York, September 13, 1860 [discrepancy in dates seems ok]

 

The development of the popular sovereignty doctrine is one of the most instructive chapters in the history of our days.

 

It shows how easily the popular mind can be obfuscated by a sophistical plausibility, and how easily correct principles are lost sight of in the confused struggle of interests and aspirations.  Future generations will scrutinize with curious astonishment the history of our days, and wonder at the temporary success of so transparent a fraud. 

 

Permit me a brief digression.  Popular sovereignty, in the true sense of the term, means the sovereignty of all individuals, so regulated by law as to protect the rights and liberties of any one against the encroachments of any other, and so organized by political institutions as to give a common expression of the collective will.  Its natural basis is the equality of the rights of all men.  Its natural end is the protection of all individuals in the enjoyment of their liberties.  Hence it precludes the idea of slavery in all its forms.  Apply this true popular sovereignty to the territories and we are willing to accept it—nay, it is the very thing which we are contending for.  But is this what Douglas, in the Nebraska bill, contemplated?  By no means.  His popular sovereignty is based upon the assumption that one class of men has the power—has the right—to strip another class of their natural rights, and to hold them as slaves . . .

 

Bernard Miller

Game Supper

Watertown Democrat, 08 16 1860

Bernard Miller is making preparations to give his friends one of those bountiful and pleasant game entertainments which he knows how to get up so well.  Just think of it, lovers of wild-wood delicacies, a table loaded with snipe, woodcock, partridge, prairie chicken and duck, all cooked to the most appetizing point of deliciousness, surrounded with all the accompaniments with which such dishes ought to be set off, and the accomplished Baron present to make the good things better with his blandishments and smiles.  By all means, let the admirers of the birds of the field and forest be present at this first game festival of the season.  If eating and laughing will make a company merry, how social will that party be that gathers around Bernard Miller’s fragrant and tempting table.

 

Seamstress

Watertown Democrat, 08 23 1860

TO THE LADIES—Any young lady or seamstress can do a profitable business by soliciting work from the public, in any of our small western villages, by investing the sum of 25 or 30 dollars in one of the new Sewing Machines now made by the Chicago Sewing Machine Co.  Their machines work with the utmost accuracy on cloth of all kinds and are so simple that a mere girl can work them with ease.  I am now realizing nearly $8 per week, have used mine for about two months, and can cheerfully recommend them to seamstresses for all purposes of family sewing.—A Seamstress, Elgin, Ill.

 

Governor Tilden

Watertown Republican, 08 23 1876

 

The Jefferson Banner gave a glowing account last week of some of Tilden's achievements as governor of New York.  It omitted to state, however, that he failed to remove from office the democratic sheriff who allowed Tilden's friend Tweed to escape from prison.

 

C. W. Chappell

Watertown Republican, 08 23 1876

 

Mr. C. W. Chappell, the popular Jeweler in Ganes' Building [John W Ganes, Music House, 1876c, 115 E Main, (115=85 Main St in 1876), WHS_005_094], like the sensible man that he is, has changed his mind about removing from here and going to Portage, and will continue to abide with us to the infinite satisfaction of his numerous friends and customers, who dislike to have the time come when they would have to say "Farewell."

 

Married High School Students

Watertown Daily Times, 08 19 1960

 

The Watertown Board of Education last night adopted a policy relative to married students in high school.  The statement of policy prepared and drawn up after a detailed study and survey, places definite restrictions on class attendance and participation in school activities by students who marry.  Only one vote was cast against adoption of the policy and that came from Commissioner Neal McMurry who called it public punishment of students who have strayed into a predicament which results in “a shot gun marriage to put it bluntly.”

 

Fire at Ice House of

Van Alstine’s Exchange Hotel

Watertown Democrat, 08 24 1876

 

The alarm of fire sent out last Friday night between the hours of twelve and one o'clock served to bring to the scene of action, ready for fire duty, both the Ahrens and Silsby engines.  When the alarm was first sounded, considerable excitement prevailed throughout the city, but when it became known that only a small building occupied as an ice house on Mr. Van Alstine's lot near the river [Alstine’s Exchange Hotel, image WHS_005_773] was on fire, the excitement became less animated.  How the building took fire no one seems to know, but it is generally conceded to be the work of an incendiary. 

 

The fire, though exceedingly small, served the purpose, however, of testing the promptness and agility of our firemen.  As soon as the bell sent forth its clear notes, both the "Pioneer" and "Phoenix" companies manned their respective steamers, and were in their positions prepared to operate before the flames had gained scarcely any headway.  The Phoenix crew succeeded in getting to the bridge in time to throw first water, but the suction hose being badly managed on the start, it put them to the needless trouble of stopping their engine, to lower their suction as to take water more rapidly.  If it had not been for the fact that they were obliged to change their position on the bridge, the question of throwing first water would in all probability have been in their favor, but as it was, the Pioneers took off the palm.  The latter steamer went to the reservoir [cistern] on Second Street, and in due time poured forth a vigorous stream upon the burning pile.  Both steamers at length were under full operation, and in a very short time the fire was extinguished. 

 

This is the first opportunity the companies have had to experiment upon a fire, and they are deserving of much credit for their tact, discipline, and harmony of action exhibited by them on this occasion.

 

V. W. Seely

Watertown Republican, 08 23 1876

 

Lawyer V. W. Seely got back last week with his scalp intact from a ramble through the Rocky Mountain jungles in the vicinity of Cheyenne, having seen lots of rare sights, including game of the mountain lion, bear, elk and deer species.