Time Machine Trip to February 1956

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

It’s that time again to fire up the old “Time Machine Chair” and make a trip back in time.

Today Don LaBrec is sitting in the driver’s seat. The big wheel is spinning and the years are clicking back. In no time we are back to Kaukauna’s south side.  We are out front of the Kaukauna Times on Main Avenue.

We are now in February of 1956.    

·         Thilmany received national safety award

·         Kaukauna Dollar days are going on

·         Hartjes is president of Advancement Association

For the music lovers, the top song on the Hit Parade this month is:

          My Prayer – The Platters

 https://youtu.be/eDlcqhlzDqQ

Carl Hansen, the publisher, has left the newspapers for us by the front door of the Kaukauna Times. Let’s see what’s in the news this month.  There are great pictures in this month’s edition. 

Your old news man – Lyle

PS: Add a friend to the Time Machine Trips.

Send me the name and email to hansenlyle5@gmail.com

February 1, 1956

Army Pfc. Wilfred J. Mitchler, 19, is participating in amphibious training with the 25th Infantry Division in Hawaii. A cannoneer in battery eight of the divisions eight infantry artillery Battalion, Mitchler entered the Army in March 1955.  He is a 1954 graduate of Kaukauna High School.

Thilmany Pulp and Paper Company captured high ranks in the 1955 national safety Council contest according to figures released by the firm's industrial relations Department. C. H, Kemp, Safety director at Thilmany, announced the company placed 19th out of 78 entries in this division. 

February 3, 1956

Total of $926 was collected for the 1956 March of Dimes drive carried out Tuesday evening by KHS students.  Total of 92 high school students took part in the drive with the dividing of the 16 teams to cover the number of districts in Kaukauna.

Wednesday snow and icy road conditions led to two accidents late Wednesday according to Kaukauna police. One accident resulted in $100 in damage the other $140 in damage.

Kaukauna Galloping Ghosts tried to pull themselves out of conference cellar as they invade Menasha tonight for their tenth conference start.

February 8, 1956

"A gift of $50,000 to the city of Kaukauna from Thilmany Pulp and Paper Company was unanimously accepted Tuesday evening at the regular meeting of the Kaukauna common Council. “Once again, we can thank Mr. Jennings and the Thilmany Pulp and Paper company for another whole-hearted contribution to the citizens of Kaukauna.” The mayor pointed out that Thilmany Pulp and Paper company pays approximately 1/2 of all city taxes.

Through the first semester five students have maintained a straight “A”. They are Senior, Marie Bohm; Juniors, Janet Oettinger and Ann Teske; Freshman, Patricia Doering and Sally Hertz. 

A cold third quarter, which is rapidly becoming traditional for the Kaukauna Galloping Ghosts basketball squad Friday night gave the Menasha Bluejays their seventh win in conference play by a score of 72-61. Leading the way in the losing cause was Jim Rausch with 18 points and close behind was Ray Vils with 12 and Cal Welch with 11.  

February 10, 1956

Dick Lemke, son of Mr. & Mrs. Ed Lemke is presented with his Eagle Scout award by his parents as Scoutmaster Louis Schultz looks on.   

Webelo scouting awards were presented to eight Cub Scouts. The boys are left to right back row, Jerry Veldman, Ronald Straus, Robert Niesen and Don Straus, in the front row are Greg Tilkens, Jim Jirikowic, Lyle Hansen and Jerome Schaefer.

 

Kaukauna dollar days are in full swing. Semi-annual citywide event got underway yesterday morning and will continue through tomorrow afternoon. Under this sponsorship of the Kaukauna advancement Association, twice a year event has come to mean an opportunity for shoppers to purchase his needs at reduced prices.

February 15, 1956

The Kaukauna Little Ghosts, Thursday evening copped their first win of the 1955–56 season as they edged to a 33-32 win as guests of Wilson Junior high school in Appleton. Gary Vanevenhoven pocketed a free toss in the closing 45 seconds of the match to establish the win margin.

Definite arrangements have been completed this week for the appearance of Keith Head, Kaukauna and Ross Bishop, Sherwood on the forthcoming boxing show card which will be sponsored by the Kaukauna Lions Club according to club president, Guy Krumm.

Kaukauna firemen were summoned twice within a matter of three days since Friday. The first call was to the William Bartels residence route one and the second two Dave Siebers Main Avenue.

The Kaukauna's Galloping Ghost Friday evening showed championship in all departments as they romped over New London by a score of 65-48. Big Jim Rausch collected 36 points and Wayne Paschen swished 15 points to lead the Ghosts. With a 2-9 record Kaukauna is tied with Clintonville for last place in the conference.

February 17, 1956

The Kaukauna Police Department again this week reiterated their warnings to city dog owners to keep their pets under restraint. There have been many complaints recently of dogs running at large. Chief Engerson said that the law on keeping dogs on leashes applies and will be enforced throughout the year.

  

Father Martin Vosbeek, pastor of St. Mary's church, DePere, has been appointed pastor of St. John's parish, Little Chute, it has been announced by most Rev. Stanislaus V. Bona, bishop of Green Bay. Father Vosbeek succeeds Msgr. J. J. Sprangers, who retired in January after 40 years in Little Chute.

Bob Kennedy, former University of Wisconsin All-American guard, has signed a 1956, contract with the Green Bay Packers. Kennedy, a Wisconsin product all the way, was born in Rhinelander where he starred in high school football.

February 22, 1956

The Two Rivers Purple Raiders were no match for the superior Kaukauna Galloping Ghosts Friday night as the Kaws storm to a 52-40 decision at the KHS gym in the final home game of the 1955–56.

February 24, 1956

Dave Hartjes, manager of Hartjes Electric company, was elected president of the Kaukauna Advancement Association at a meeting of the board of directors this week. He had been active in the advancement Association since he came to Kaukauna as a youthful electrical contractor in 1936. He had started in Little Chute in 1933 after he graduated from electrical school in Chicago.

A fire destroyed the Gordon Clothing store at 120 E. 2^nd. Street along with the upstairs apartment Tuesday evening. All members of the family including Mr. and Mrs. Zuehl and four children escaped without injury, but none of their personal effects were saved.

William H. Smith, 52, Kaukauna, was killed in a three-truck collision at the intersection of US 41 and State Highway 47 Tuesday noon. 

Time Machine Trip to February 1901

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

Well it’s time to fire up the old “Time Machine Chair” and travel back in time to February of 1901

For today’s trip Nancy Wallace will be sitting in the front seat operating the Time Machine. The big wheel is spinning, the years are clicking back and in no time we are back on East Second Street on Kaukauna’s Southside.

·         The railroad bridge is now complete.     

·         The new library building is a success

·         Rev. Verberk of Little Chute has died

Charlie has left the papers on the chair out front of the Times building. Let’s see what’s in the news this month.

Your old newsman – Lyle Hansen 

February 1, 1901

  

 Doubleheader Train Submitted photo

The new railroad bridge across the governmental canal at the third lock was completed by the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad Company. The structure will stand test today when a double header train will pass over it in safety.

The members of the Women's Christian Temperance Union are under arrest at LaSalle, Ind., for having gone on a saloon smashing crusade. Seven women, armed with small hatchets entered the Harrison Hotel bar and smashed the mirrors and fixtures and destroyed cigar and liquors the damage amounted to $700. Mr. Murphy, the bartender, in attempting to prevent the demolition, received a severe gash on his head from a hatchet in the hands of one of the women. The women are jubilant over their success in wiping out three saloons and promised to smash more at the first opportunity. They claim saloon wrecking is lawful and expect to be released without bail.

The Kaukauna public library was transferred to new rooms in the Central block last Saturday. Today the doors were open to hundreds of appreciative patrons throughout the city. The new rooms are great improvement over the old location, being neat and clean, well-lighted comfortably. 

On Thursday last family circle of Mr. Mrs. Peter Essler was increased by the arrival of baby girl. Mr. Essler informs The Times reporter that this makes a total of 15 children. Twelve children are living and enjoying good health.

An Appleton physician, Dr. M. J. Rodermund, who caused considerable concerns last week by his deliberate exposure of dozens of people to smallpox, and who were subsequently placed in quarantine, with a guard of four officers around his house day and night, escape Saturday night and is still at large.

Rev. Father Antony Joseph Verberk, a retired priest who has during his priesthood been pastor at Freedom, Little Chute, Appleton and other places died on Sunday last in Hollandtown. Rev. Verberk one of the early Holland missionaries had labored earnestly for many years in service. Father Verberk was the last living priest to have seen Rev. Father Van Den Broek who will be remembered brought the Holland settlers of Little Chute across the ocean. The meeting happened during the winter of 1847-48 when Father Van den Broek, after years of missionary work among the Indians in the Fox River Valley, was on a visit to his native country. Father Verberk, at that time attending college, went to see the aged missionary for advice about joining the colony of Hollanders just then preparing to immigrate to America. 

   Father Van Den Broek

February 8, 1901

The usual large stock of fish for the Lenten season is arriving daily at Runte's. Better place your order now for your season's supply.

The city dads met in regular monthly session Tuesday evening and turn out customary cost of business. Amongst the business transacted passage of the resolution prescribing rules for the police officer. Hereafter the city marshal will be expected to be on duty from 6 AM to 6 PM and shall divide his time equally between the two sides of the river not remaining in one place for more than 15 minutes unless duty demands.

Cornelius Bruin on this city, is the owner of a book that was printed in 1690 and which he offers for sale. It is printed in three languages Spanish, French and Holland and is bound in pigskin. It is a religious work and looks as if it has never received rough usage. It has been in Mr. Bruin’s family ever since it was printed.

February 15, 1901

The Kimberly & Clark Company at Kimberly was damaged by fire Wednesday night to an estimated amount at between $300,000 and $400,000. Three to four large machine rooms, including the finishing department, is a mass of smoldering debris. Chief E. L. Anderson of the Appleton fire department, who led the fighters of three cities in the battle against the raging flames, lost his life at the fire, after it was about under control.

A couple weeks ago in chronicling the rival new baby at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Essler made The Times award the big family medal of this community to them with 15 children. They are informed this week however that Peter will have to step down as the head of the class and give the title to George Kromer, of the Southside who owes him two better. On February 7 Mrs. Kromer gave birth to another baby girl, making a total of 17 of which Mr. Kromer is the father.

Unknown parties broke into Hotel Brothers and cleaned out one of the slot machines of $15 or $20, all in nickels

The biggest waterpower deal in recent history of the Fox River Valley was consummated on February 1st by the delivery of deeds which transfers to the Green Bay and Mississippi canal Company practically all the interest in the power canal in Kaukauna and elsewhere on the Fox River. The figures in the deal are large and although not made public supposed to be upwards of $100,000.

February 22, 1901

A few weeks ago Peter Essler the family of 15 thought to be entitled to the big family medal. He held for one week when George Kromer came forward and contested on the grounds that he was the father of 17 children. Now comes a record breaker and puts them all to shame. Michael Gilson, the blacksmith at A. E. Pardon’s shop on Crooks Avenue, is the father of 21 children, 13 of whom are living and range in age from 36 to 6 years.

Each of the members of the Kaukauna fire Department who served at the Kimberly mill fire last week, received a $10 check from the Kimberly-Clark company as a reward for their aid. It is a graceful act for the company and certainly most acceptable.

Time Machine Trip to February 1938

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

It’s that time again to fire up the old “Time Machine Chair” and make trip back to February 1938.

The big wheel is spinning Dan Van Dyn Hoven is taking his place in the driver’s seat. The years are clicking back and in no time we are back to Kaukauna’s south side.  We are out front of the Kaukauna Times on Main Street.     

• A campaign to repair the Grignon home are proceeding.

•  Lightning struck twice in Kaukauna causing outages.  

• Kaukauna high school basketball team best of form of season

The hit parade song of the month.

A-Tisket A-Tasket  - Ella Fitzgerald

https://youtu.be/SjJry0vhHj4

Carl Hansen, the publisher, has left the newspapers for us by the front door of the Kaukauna Times. Let’s see what’s in the news this month.

 

Your old news man – Lyle Hansen

PS:  You can add a friend to the Time Machine trips by emailing me at

hansenlyle5@gmail.com.

February 2, 1938

Kaukauna beat West DePere Friday night 24–2 to win their second conference game of the season. Kaukauna trailed the entire game then went to work to pull the game out of the weeds. It was Cliff Vanevenhoven who was the main cog in the Kaw whirlwind finish after dropping in 4 shots for eight points.

John Diedrick was awarded $1,500 for land taken by county for superhighway 41. The jury returned with the verdict after 4 hours of deliberations.   

February 4, 1938

The Kaukauna high school boxing squad lost their first prep meet of the season to St. John's high school from Little Chute Tuesday evening. The Chuters won 6 out of the 10 regular matches, five on decisions and one by a technical knockout to win the show that was attended by a large crowd in the local high school gymnasium.

 

117 students of St. Mary's parochial school had perfect attendance records during the first semester of the school year according to a report received from Sister M. Catherine, principal.

February 11, 1938

The Kaukauna high school boxers won five out of nine matches from the Neenah high school here Tuesday evening but the wrestlers could only win 3 out of 15 bouts to see Neenah walk off with the most honors. The program again was witnessed by a large crowd in the high school gymnasium.

The Outagamie County Pioneer and Historical Society is leading a campaign to repair and improve the historic Grignon home in Kaukauna, a land mark which last summer attracted the greatest number of tourists in four years. Kaukauna and Outagamie County are interested in purchasing and preserving the mansion, which is decaying from the wear of 100 years.

February 16, 1938

Norbert Hennes, 6th Street, caught the fourth-largest walleyed Pike landed in United States during the last season. He caught a walleye weighing an even 13 pounds at Fry Lake on July 4. The catch also gave him a $5 prize in the contest sponsored by Hunting and Fishing magazine. The largest walleye caught weighed 14 lbs. 12 oz. Wisconsin waters apparently are good fishing for 18 of the 162 awards made were for fish caught in Wisconsin lakes and streams.

Lightning struck one of the generators at the old powerhouse Sunday morning and caused damage to the extent of $3,000 according to H. F. Weckwerth, superintendent of the Electric and Water Department. Another bolt of lightning struck a transformer on Jefferson Street and still another struck a cable at Riverview Sanitarium during the storm. Electric current in the city was shut off for a short time because of the blasts.

Tuesday evening the common Council voted 8 to 2 to reconsider its action relative to railroad wigwags. The matter was introduced by Mayor L. F. Nelson, who said that since the Council took action asking for three wigwag signals a short time ago, there has been in ill feeling about the city. Citizens have asked that the matter be modified in that instead of asking for three signals at this time to ask for one and ask for the others later. Mayor Nelson told the council that the railroad company has recently invested $30,000 in the shops and there are now more men employed there than when the shops were closed down.

Clarence Jaeger, a member of Holy Cross Boy Scout Troop No. 31, was presented with a gold palm award by Joseph T. Sadlier, grand Knight of Kaukauna Council Knights of Columbus. Jaeger received his Eagle Scout award about a year ago which is the highest distinction a scout can obtain. 

Silver spoons hammered from silver dollars in 1836, jewelry 100 years old, justice court records that date back to 1840 and valuable old books are among the treasures of the historic Grignon home which William F. Wolf, Appleton, displayed at his home this week. The relics and documents of the days when Indians dominated the Fox River Valley are among the most prized possessions of the Grignon home.  When the home is repaired the society plans to display the most valuable possessions in cases so there can be no danger of theft. Over the past four summers more than 10,000 names of tourist from all parts United States signed in at the Grignon home.

  

The Golden Jubilee celebration of the women's Aid Society of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church was celebrated Sunday in the church auditorium. Rev. Paul Th. Oehlert, pastor, acted as toastmaster at the affair. There were 38 members the first year in 1888 and today there are 125 members.

February 18, 1938   

“With the world in such an uproar and fury as it is today,” said Capt. H. C. Hussner, ordinance reserve Appleton at the regular meeting of Kaukauna Rotary club at the Hotel Kaukauna. “Much has already been said, pro and con relative to our policy of National Defense. The optimist assures that we will never become involved in another war, and the pessimist declares we will certainly be involved within a matter of a short time. It is time we turn our attention beyond our domicile, unite Republicans, Democrats, socialist, prohibitionist and all men, regardless of politics and creed, to analyze the situation as true Americans should.”

February 23, 1938

The Kaukauna high school five displayed its best form of the season when they staged a second-half comeback to turn back New London 27 to 21 here Friday evening. The return of Giordana, freshman guard, to the Kaw lineup seem to play an important factor in the win with Bill Auger and Lee Lambie putting up a great offensive show.

According to an announcement from the board of education Marcel Rademacher, 33, who graduated from St. Norbert's college last June has been engaged to take the class taught by principal Olin G. Dryer, who will leave for a period of military service at Fort Leavenworth Kansas. The principal duties will be handled by Mr. Little.

February 25, 1938

Three bowlers in the commercial league World Series over 600 at Schell Alleys Tuesday evening. Amay Bayorgeon 631, Charles Schell 610 and Leo Zarter 602. 

Time Machine Trip to February 1897

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

Well it’s time to fire up the old “Time Machine Chair” and travel back in time to February of 1897.

For today’s trip Craig Lahm will be sitting in the front seat operating the Time Machine.  The big wheel is spinning, the years are clicking back and in no time we are back on East Second Street on Kaukauna’s Southside.

·         The Faber Clothing Co. burnt to the ground.

·         A new bell is placed in the engine house    

·         No wearing of hats in theatres law.

Charles Raught - Editor and owner Kaukauna Times

Charlie has left the papers on the chair out front of the Times building. Let’s see what’s in the news this month.

Your old newsman – Lyle Hansen

February 5, 1897

An ordinance forbidding the wearing of hats in theatres has been introduced in the Milwaukee council and seems likely to become a law.

The Badger Paper Mill has turned out a fine line of colored poster paper this week, which will be another product of that company in the future.

The water works question in Kaukauna still hangs and it is a difficult matter as things now stand, for anyone to foresee the outcome. In the last three meetings of the council a decision was expected to be made and a franchise granted, but in all three there were complications involved and no decision was reached.

Mark Twain is in London trying to begin life over. He is writing a book the proceeds of which he hopes will enable him to pay off his debts. Thousands of people who enjoy his work are hoping he is successful.

A fellow giving his name as Tom Larkins from Iron River found lodging in the city lockup Tuesday night. He seemed a little light in the upper story. Larkins claims that he had come from Iron River to Green Bay. On the train he became infatuated with a young lady and failed to get off in Green Bay. He told the conductor he intended to get off when the lady got off.  The conductor told the lady and requested she get off at Kaukauna and then jump back on. The light brained creature got off and not known she got back on was turned over to Officer Reardon of Kaukauna. 

Tuesday night a fire broke out in the Faber Clothing Co. on Second Street as it being a small wooden building it was soon burnt to the ground.  The Ledyard hotel received some damage but can be repaired. 

February 12, 1897

The Outagamie County workhouse is now absolutely empty. Supt. Kuehn of course, wears a smile nowadays. 

February 19, 1897

The new bell for the engine house arrived last Saturday and was immediately hoisted in place.  It is a great improvement over the old one, and can be heard much more distinctly in all parts of the city.

After a three month struggle with the water works question, the council finally, at its meeting on Wednesday, granted a franchise to Wells & Reichert by a vote of 7-2. Wells & Reichert have promised to file their bond of acceptance, and if the franchise continues in force, to commence work as soon as possible.

Mayor Joseph McCarty was honored at a surprised 33d birthday party at Heindel’s hall Friday evening. Half the people in the city must have been there as the crowd fairly bulged the hall out at the sides. Upon arriving at the hall his honor was directed to the platform.

Luther Lindauer has had a crew of men up north along the Ashland railroad this week putting up ice for the Northwestern railroad company. 49 cars were loaded with ice twenty inches thick. The crew then came down to Clintonville where 41 additional cars were loaded.   

    

February 26, 1897

Jule Kuehn, superintendent of the county workhouse, was in town over the weekend. Jule took a dog back with him and when questioned as to what he intended to do with the “pup,” he replied, “Make sausage for the tramps.” This probably accounts for the scarcity of hobos in the county nowadays.

Mayor Joseph McCarty of this city has vetoed the ordinance concerning the water works and the franchise of Wells & Reichert, listing several reasons for not approving the ordinance. Among the top reasons mentioned for the disapproval were that $1,200 more would have to be spent for hydrant rental than in other plans, and that the ordinance mentioned no limitation to the cost of building the proposed system, which means that Kaukauna would have to pay whatever price was charged, no matter how high. With a different proposal, a limit as to how high the price could go would be included. For these and other reasons, Mayor Jos. McCarty has vetoed the ordinance.

  

A flying sled has recently been invented and is a masterpiece of ingenuity. To work the machine the operator sits astride it as he works with his feet the mechanism that turn the prop. The steering is done easily by the driver and brakes are also provided. On a clear stretch the slid can reach speeds of 60 to 70 miles per hour.  

A Chicago faith-healer last week cured a $7,500 lawsuit. A year ago a man fell into street excavation and sued for damages. Physicians advised amputation of both legs and the court awarded him $7,500. After consulting a faith-healer he walked out without crutches. He may now only receive a few hundred dollars.  

Time Machine Trip to February 1960

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

It’s that time again to fire up the old “Time Machine Chair” and make a trip back in time.

My friend Cathy Dawson is sitting in the driver’s seat. The big wheel is spinning and the years are clicking back. In no time we are back to Kaukauna’s south side.  We are out front of the Kaukauna Times on the corner of Third Street and Main. We are now in February of 1960.  

• Badger Northlands is celebrating its tenth anniversary.
• Walter Schmidt will succeed Julian Bichler as Principal of Kaukauna High School.

For the music lovers the top song on the Hit Parade this month is:

           Teen Angel – Mark Dinning

https://youtu.be/KG_VIcoiCFA

Carl Hansen, the publisher, has left the newspapers for us by the front door of the Kaukauna Times. Let’s see what’s in the news this month.  There are great pictures in this month’s edition. 

Your old news man – Lyle

February 3, 1960

Badger Northland employees voted by 7-1 margin to settle contract negations for 1960. The employees had voted 4 to 1 to strike on February 24^th unless wage increases were granted.

Kaukauna beat Kimberly 59-56 and secured first place in the Mid-Eastern conference basketball league.

February 5, 1960

Tom Wendland has become Kau-Hi’s first homebound student. A victim of polio he is not able to attend school in person. By means of a telephone “intercom”, Tom has a direct connection with several High School classrooms. He carries a full academic program and has maintained a straight ‘A’ average. 

Badger Northlands tenth anniversary in Kaukauna will be observed today with an open house. Guides will greet the guests and escort them through the plant.

February 10, 1960

Thilmany recorded record sales and production figures for 1959. The sales of 33 million are 5 million over the previous years.

February 12, 1960

Walter Schmidt, a teacher and counselor at Kaukauna High School for the past 19 years, Tuesday evening was named Principal of the High School, effective July 1, 1960, by action of the Kaukauna Board of Education. He will succeed Principal Julian Bichler, who will be superintendent, replacing the retiring T. H. Boebel.

  

February 19, 1960

First Aid procedures in event of a disaster are practiced by students and teachers at the OCTC.

                           

February 24, 1960

Fire caused several thousands of dollars in damage to an apartment building on West Second Street. The three apartment structure is owned by Vern Despins.

  

February 26, 1960

Record sales and earnings were reported by the Kaukauna Electric and Water department. Net income was up $31,000 and net sales up $29,000.

J. Grant Whitman of Kaukauna died Sunday at the age of 95. He was born May 19, 1884 and his family moved here from Little Chute in 1868 when he was four. His recollections of times past were sharp and clear. As a young man he helped break out the stone for building Nicolet School from a quarry that is now the current site of the high school football field. The only bridge over the river was a floating draw bridge at the end of Wisconsin Avenue. He began working at Thilmany in the 1890’s. “There was a year of hardship when we had to wait two months for our pay, and I remember workers coming to their jobs with just one slice of bread and a boiled potato for lunch”. Grant recalled when his father accidentally struck his foot with an axe. “The infection resulted in the doctor removing his leg right on our kitchen table”. I carved a leg for him out of basswood, installed some straps and he got along pretty well with it.”