Time Machine Trip to July 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 Donna Schevers 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 July of 1956.    

·         Auto accident claims life of Kaukauna girl.

·         Freckle contest winners are announced

·         Kaukauna youth found guilty of murder

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

Sixteen Tons – Tennessee Ernie Ford

https://youtu.be/EkRYuMqw-B0

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

Lyle’s laughs: A man landed a new job at an Adult Diaper Company. He was then notified that there were no restrooms in the building and employees were expected to wear their product.

July 3, 1956

Kaukauna youngsters get a special break this afternoon as the prices for all the rides on the midway of the American Legion picnic at the LaFollette Park are reduced as a special inducement for young people to visit the show.

Kaukauna High School band director Elwood Bleick, this week announced a special alumni night concert Thursday evening in front of the Kaukauna High School building on Oak Street. Bleick and Adrian McGrath, who is assisting with the summer music lessons have sent out special invitations to former members of the band to attend the concert.

Army Pvt. Marvin B. Biese, 22, recently graduated from the Non-commissioned Officer Academy in Korea. Biese entered the Army in January 1955 and arrived in the far east last February. 

July 6, 1956

Kaukauna area boys and girls have returned home from attending Badger Boys State at Ripon college and Badger Girls State which was held at University of Wisconsin campus in Madison. Tom Lindemuth was elected alderman in the elections held at the session. Miss Mary Joe Krueger, Kaukauna, Joyce Van Boxtel, Little Chute and Janet Brooks, Greenleaf attended Badger Girls’ state at Madison. Ms. Krieger was elected Sheriff; Miss Van Boxtel was named Senator.

Don Lemke former Kaukauna Times staff reporter has had the good fortune in the past to spend some time in Mexico. “I thought that seeing Mexico, with a huge diverse population, I would see a country with satisfied healthy people. I was wrong. Instead I saw a crippled man across the street on his hands and knees because he was too poor to buy a wheelchair. I saw a teenage boy carrying enormous box on his back as he struggled down the street. I saw hundreds of people over 60 years of age begging on the street. I saw people living in mud huts and little children with bodies so scrawny that their bones would stick out.” 

The Girl Scout Day Camp Winnecomac, located on County Trunk Highway Q, south east of Kaukauna, will open Monday for the first session of the summer season. Kaukauna Brownies and Girl Scouts of the city will be the first group at camp. 

July 11, 1956

The Kaukauna Klubbers Sunday afternoon broke their “at home jinx” with a vengeance as they defeated the invading Appleton Brewers 10–0 in a match that captured a seven one fourth inning and back to back triples by Kaw leftfielder Robert Petruska and shortstop Tom Hilgenberg. Rick Van Linn went the distance on hill for the Klubbers allowing but four hits in the game.

Jurors were chosen Monday in the first-degree murder trial of Michael McCormick, 17, accused of slaying Theresa Vander Horst on March 9, was started Tuesday morning in the Municipal Court, Appleton before judge Oscar J. Schmiege. McCormick has entered a plea of innocent by reason of insanity at the time of the alleged killing.

Funeral services for Claire Schuh, 15, Route 2 Kaukauna, who died from injuries sustained in an auto accident near Greenleaf Sunday night will be held at Holy Cross church Thursday at 9 AM.  Another Kaukauna girl, Diane Reinke, 15, is still in critical condition at St. Vincent's Hospital Green Bay as a result of the accident.

Claire Schuh

Green Bay Packer fans will get a taste of what's new, when rookie quarterbacks and All-Star players report to coach Lisle Blackbourn on Monday, July 16 for practice. Coach Blackbourn wants his quarterbacks to be well versed in the Packer system when other members of the squad report to the Stevens Point training site July 21. Quarterbacks reporting will be Lynn Beightol of Maryland, Bart Starr of Alabama and Rod Hermes of Beloit.

  

July 18, 1956

The Thilmany Pulp and Paper Company has concluded negotiations with representatives of the two unions at their location. The new labor agreement is for one year and applies to about 1200 hourly paid employees. A general 6% wage increase with a minimum of $.11 per hour for male employees. The wage increase will make the new base rate for women a $1.49 per hour and the base rate for male employees will be a $1.71 per hour. 

The Packers have signed their 22nd draft choice- halfback John Popson and free agent guard Bob Margotto, it was announced today by coach Lisle Blackbourn. Popson, a 6 foot, 195-pounder was all-southern halfback in his sophomore and junior years and considered the greatest player in the history of Furman University. Margotto, a graduate of Wisconsin state college at River Falls was all-conference two years and honorable mention little all-American. He is 6 foot, 220-pound guard. Jim Ringo, veteran Packer center, has also signed for his fourth season.

   

The Cub Scouts of Pack 20, sponsored by post 3319 of the VFW, will be guest on Saturday, August 25 at a preseason football match between the Green Bay Packers and the New York Giants football team at Green Bay.

A total of 309 babies, which were born at Kaukauna community hospital, registered for the Alumni Day held July 12. Prizes were given for the curliest hair and the baldest head also the first set of twins received prizes. 

July 20, 1956

Mayor Joseph Bayorgeon Tuesday night recommended to the common Council that steps be taken to curb the high accident and death rate on the highways by providing drivers instruction courses in the city. The program could be instituted at the high school at a minimal cost of the city, according Bayorgeon.

The first half batting averages for the Fox River Valley baseball league have Ron Debilious of the Menasha Macs grabbing top honors with a .611 average. Vernon Romenesko, Freedom, has a .555 average while Bill Harvath, Little Chute has a .500 average. Bill Ebert, Reidsville, is .481, Roger “Butter” Vander Wyst at .478 and Floyd Hammen at .424 both of Little Chute.  Kaukauna's Jim Nirschl is hitting .400.

Michael McCormick, 17, who Wednesday night was found guilty of second-degree murder by a jury composed of six men and six women in the death of Teresa Vander Horst, is scheduled to receive sentencing this morning. The jury deliberated for a little more than five hours before bringing the verdict.

July 25, 1956

The Kaukauna Klubbers Sunday continued their winning ways and lead in the Fox River Valley baseball league when they beat the Harrison crew 8-2. Highlights of the game for Kaukauna was a three run homer in the fourth frame by Jim Nirschl and a two run tripper by Joe Van Linn in the bottom of the eighth. 

Ken Roloff, former Kaukauna High School and Central State Teachers College-Stevens Point star athlete, is scheduled to leave Sunday noon for Winooski, Vermont, where he will be trying out for a spot on the New York Giants football team of the NFL.

The Milwaukee Bravettes proved to be no match for the Kaukauna VFW softball team Sunday as the Kaw girls took a 19-5 lead by the end of the fifth. In the first inning Darlene Kramer, Dot Kastell and Elaine VanderLoop all reached bases on errors. A booming triple by Janice Giordana scored the threesome, then Janice scored on another triple by Sharon Pahl. The Kaukauna girls continued to score every inning.

Kaukauna Junior Legion baseball team last Saturday afternoon had little difficulty defeating Green Bay as they swept to in 18-4 decision at the Dodge St., Park. A ten run third inning was the turning point in the match after the visitors held a 3-1 lead.  The big third inning for the Kaws started as Jerome DeBruin reached base on an error, Cal Walsh singled as did Jack Coenen and Fred Bernard doubled. Ken Sanders singled, Karl Frank walked and Duane Pahl singled, Russ Arts walked as did Jerome DeBruin, Cal Walsh again singled and Jack Coonen tripled. Coonen came in on an outfield error on a blow by Bernard. At the end of the frame the Kaws had 11 to 3 advantage over the visitors.

The city of Kaukauna received recognition Friday with the presentation of the American Automobile Association award for excellence of pedestrian protection program. Kaukauna was honored for achievement of no pedestrian deaths during 1955. Mayor Bayorgeon stated “the residents of the city - both pedestrians and drivers - deserve considerable credit for making this award possible “.

Freckle-face youngsters had their day recently at nine of the city parks as prizes were awarded to the youngsters with the most, the prettiest, the fewest, the largest and the cutest. Reichel's Park winners were Carol Koester, Jack Schermitzler, Marilyn Resch and Christine Reichel. At Strasburg Park the winners were Mark DeBruin, Bruce Vanevenhoven, Jean Delfosse and Christie DeBruin. Hennes Park winners were Jeanne Carstens, Kitty Collins, Suzanne Schmidt, Danny Biselx and David Keough. At Riverside Park Royal Nelson, Joe Kerry, Don Derus, “Butch” Anderson and Tom Jansen. LaFollette Park winners were Mary Mullen, Lynn Cherkasky, Lois Hansen and Nancy Rennebohm.  White City winners were Larry Pruess, Margaret Coleman, Barbara Wolf, Paul Lamers and Sue Bauer. The winners at Nicolet Park were Betty Fisher, Carol Carnot, Paula Koch, Patty Landreman, Philip Boyd, Joann Sachs.  Marsh winners included Donna Krueger, Lois Ebben, Duane DeGroot and Shirley Blair. The Park playground winners included Diane Steffens, Laura Leatherbury, Bill Derricks and Mary Busse.

July 27, 1956

When August 1^st rolls around next week Sylvester (Ves) Berens will be taking note of an anniversary of some distinction in Kaukauna business. It will be 50 years since he went to work selling clothing, in the same location where he now operates his store, 115 E. 2nd St. At that time the store was owned by W. S. Mulford and Ves as a youth took up the hustling tradition. He became Mulford's star salesman and later manager of the store when Mulford moved out of state in 1933. 

  

 Ves Berens

Time Machine Trip to July 1901

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

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

For today’s trip Diane Hermsen 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 Victoria flour mills burn 

·         Small pox case in Little Chute

·         Groceries set new credit policy

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 

PS: If you say you are sorry for doing wrong and then do it again, you are not truly sorry at all. 

July 5, 1901

The Victoria flour mills situated on the government canal here was entirely destroyed by fire early this morning. Owing to the heavy fall of rain, and accompanying peals of thunder and lightning at the time, the alarm was not generally heard, and few responded to the call. The fire's location being in the basement of the structure made extinguishing the blaze impossible. Estimated cost will go as high as $20,000.

New York, July 3 at 2 o'clock in the afternoon the number of deaths from heat reported since the previous midnight was 62. At noon the temperature was 97° 1° higher than at noon the previous day.

The War tax repeal has gone into effect. This means the citizens of the land will have $40 million in tax reduction.  War taxes have been charged on things such as telegrams to kegs of beer.

During this hot weather you should bathe as often as possible and wear very light clothing. Never mind appearances until the stress is over. Avoid excessive excitement, and by no means get angry until the mercury falls. Don't work too hard wait until cooler days arrive.

Paul H. Beaulieu Post Woman’s Relief corps have decided to make their initiatory move to secure a soldier's monument for the city of Kaukauna next week. To that end they have secured the Milwaukee Journal Newsboys’ band a unique musical organization who will be touring the state during July. The band has volunteered their services free and only asks that their actual expenses be paid. 

The heavy wind accompanying the rain, hail and electric storm Friday evening in this city and vicinity was more destructive in the town of Kaukauna than here. Several barns were totally destroyed.

July 12, 1901

A new law will provide an opportunity for all boys and girls to secure higher education.  The law provides that any resident student may enter high school and his or her tuition to be paid by the town in which the students reside. The funds for such purposes shall be paid by taxes. Students from outside of the city would be charged thirty dollars per year, paid by the township where they reside.   

The school question fight at Little Chute has been settled by voting. It has been decided to build a new school house at a cost of $3,000, and a male teacher will be hired.

The small pox cases in the VanCamp family at Little Chute have been attracting considerable attention this past week, especially among the state board of health. Dr. C. D. Boyd of this city was first called to see the cases of which there were seven in the Joseph VanCamp family. The entire family has been properly quarantined at their home on Main Street.

The Julius J Martens company has filed articles of incorporation with the register of deeds in Outagamie County. The organizers are Julius J Martens, Hugo E Martens and Joachim Martens. In addition to the present grocery, a fruit and dry goods business will be added by the concern.  

Isaac John, an Oneida Indian, stole a cow which he might gain the “wherewithal” to wed Julia House of the same tribe. But a Caucasian justice with no sentiment for romance sentenced Isaac to three months in the unromantic jail.  

July 19, 1901

Twenty beater hands who were out on a strike at the Combined Locks paper mill last week concluded they did not want to stay out when the company commenced hiring new hands, so they were all given work again, but their wages were not raised. They were receiving $1.37 per day and struck for a raise of a shilling, or $1.50 per day.

The Times editor, who happens to be a resident of the business district of 3rd St., arises to inquire if the south side is at present providing with a living night watch, a deaf, dumb and blind substitute or wooden automation. But if he is really alive and on duty we object strenuously to any further pay for him. Quite frequently of late a lot of intoxicated hoodlums, who seem to have no respect for those who desire a little rest during the night, have been indulging, without molestation, in ribald revelry between the hours of midnight and 3 AM.  Their boisterous songs, cat-yawls and other means of disturbance have gone unchecked by the police. Why is it such occurrences are happening two and three times a week without any apparent attempt to quiet them? Is it the officer’s negligence or is it because he's such a good fellow that his back bone is too weak to use the authority with which he is invested?

The TIMES newspaper congratulates its neighbor – The Sun newspaper, upon having just passed the sixteenth milestone.  

The Kaukauna groceries new credit system goes into effect the 1^st of August. After that date no accounts will be carried over 30 days and no one will be allowed credit at any store until they have settled all their account at the one which they had previously traded.

We have met the enemy and they are ours. The long looked for game between the Kaukauna and Appleton teams was played last Sunday at Appleton, the result has been heralded far and near with great rejoicing throughout the land.  Suffice to say the Kaukaunans took their supposed invincible neighbors into camp, skinned them alive, tacked their hides on the fence to dry and left the bones bleaching in the sun like a lot of dead fish on the beach. The score of 7-2 is a record that will go down in history to tell the tale of woe that has left a cloud of gloom and despair hovering over Appleton since Sunday.

July 26, 1901

Several horse owners of Kaukauna have adopted the new fad and supplied their horses with straw hats. The hat is like the child's Mother Goose straw, with sugar loaf crown and wide brim in the latter of which are two ear holes and to the side of the brim are attached ribbons that tie under the neck, pulling the brim down over the eyes, shading them.

Harvey Bills is planning for extensive improvements to be made to his livery barn on Third St.

Time Machine Trip to July 1938

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

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

The big wheel is spinning Mary VanZeeland is taking her 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.     

• Legion has successful 4^th of July picnic.

• Phil Zwick wins boxing bout in Canada.

• Three swimming holes see 8600 swimmers in June.

  

The hit parade song of the month.

Jeepers Creepers – Al Donahue

https://youtu.be/PxMKf4KfxrY

  

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: Don’t you just hate it when a song from 1938 is one of your favorites?

July 1, 1938

A crew of 20 NYA youths are employed in improving Grignon Park, according to Elmer Grebe, project supervisor of the second district. The work outlined at the park will probably take the entire summer, while provisions have been made to carry on work during the winter. The work consists of construction of benches, tables, furniture and bridges. Other work outlined includes construction of a parking, improvement of the creek and paths in the park and construction of fireplaces. 

News media reported the Phil Zwick-Orville Drouillard fight staged in Toronto Canada Monday evening. In one of those bloody, crashing, smashing fights, you only see every few years, Zwick scored a ninth round technical knockout over Drouillard. Zwick, one of the hardest punching featherweights ever to show his wears in Toronto, hit Drouillard with every punch in the book, took blows himself, that would have knocked out many fighters and kept on throwing punches until a merciful referee stepped in and halted the fight.

A supply of two-cent stamps bearing the picture of John Adams president United States from 1797 to 1801, has been received at the post office in this city.

July 6, 1938

The common Council Thursday evening voted unanimously to grant class B liquor licenses to the 28 tavern keepers who have made application for license.

July 8, 1938

Three Kaukauna Boy Scouts left for the Valley Council camp at Gardner Dam Friday where they have assumed duties for the summer. They are Neil McCarty, Munroe Romenesko and Tim McCarty.

Kaukauna's three swimming holes, the fourth lock, the quarry and the municipal pool, have attracted 8600 swimmers during June, according to report received by Clifford H. Kemp recreational director.

The Electric City Brewers of the Fox River Valley league will play the Green Bay reformatory team at the reformatory field Saturday.  The pitching duties will be taken care of by manager Kilgas, Les Werely and Carl Schuler. The regular hurler, Eddie Schuler and Diedrich will be saved for the game Sunday.

A decrease of $320.30 was noted in the cost of the poor relief in June. The relief for June totaled $1925.76. There were 98 cases on relief May 31st with 8 new cases opened and 16 cases were closed.

The first fire alarm answered with the new town of Buchanan fire truck, which is stored in the Kaukauna fire Department station, was made Wednesday morning when a fire started in an automobile owned by Andrew Sprangers near Darboy.

The Kaukauna Post No. 41 American Legion stage its annual fourth of July picnic Sunday and Monday and the general consensus of opinion was that it was as successful and well received as any of the 16 consecutive picnics staged by the organization. With ideal weather conditions, approximately a crowd of 10,000 people, attended according to the committee in charge. 

July 13, 1938

Lawrence Dashnier, age 9, and his brother Lloyd, 14, unexpectedly turn gold miners Friday afternoon and had $155 to show for about two hours’ work. The gold was in coins, buried in the backyard of the of the boy’s home by some previous resident.  The boys had been helping their father level off part of the backyard for a garage and dug a pit for snow to melt. Lawrence noticed a circular opening in the side of the hole and reaching in found three gold pieces. Running to the house they secured a sifter for the soil and removed four more $20 coins, a $10 and a $5 coin for a total of $155. The dates on the coins range from 1877 to 1891.

The bowl of rice movies held last week to raise funds for civilian relief in China resulted in a profit of $46.21 according to a report by a. H. Mongin Jr., Sec. the Kaukauna bowl of Rice parties consist of benefit movies at the Rialto and Vaudette theaters here last week.

July 15, 1938

The man who builds his home today is writing himself a check for dividends that will increase from year-to-year. Today's building costs are considerably below those in the past. Real estate values and building cost are starting on arise toward our next building boom. Those who build in 1938 will get high-value at cost which are likely to be duplicated for years to come. 

Howard Hughes and his four flying companions on the last lap of their around the world flight passed over the city of Kaukauna 9:20 Thursday morning heading to New York where they will land shortly after noon Thursday. Word that the Hughes plane was in the Fox Valley was broadcast over radio and no more than the announcement made than the plane glided directly over the city. Hundreds of residents were aware of the fact that the plane was flying over and rushed outside to get a glimpse of the around the world plane.

July 20, 1938

Special additional automobile taxes cost the average Wisconsin motor vehicle owner $48.50 in 1937, an increase of 87% over the normal year and representing in many cases a tax bill equal to the value of the taxpayer’s motorcar.

July 22, 1938

The common Council approved a recommendation of the fire and police commission that the village of Little Chute be permitted to use the water hydrants in the city limits of Kaukauna in case of fire. The village must notify the Kaukauna water Department before using water from the hydrant and when they are through. The village will be charged for any water used. H. F. Weckwerth, manager of the city of Kaukauna electric and water Department was at the meeting and said the village should be billed for the water at the lowest possible rate. 

A letter has been received by Mayor L. F. Nelson from the Chicago Northwestern railroad stating that financial authority had been secured for the installation of wigwag signal at the intersection where the railroad crosses Gertrude Street.

The police and fire commission reported that one bid was received from Vern Despins of $28 for the old fire truck.

July 27, 1938

A resolution recommending that the word “Dairyland” be incorporated on all automobile and truck licenses issued by the state of Wisconsin has passed last week by the state board of agriculture and markets. 

The first hole in one at the Valley golf course was made last week by Karl Minkebige of this city. The hole-in-one was made on the sixth hole and verified by his caddy.

Contrasting styles always make the good fight. Such was the case last week when Orval Drouillard hung up a 10 round decision over Phil Zwick of Kaukauna n the featured fight and the Queensberry club in Toronto, Canada according to report of the evening telegram. Zwick repeatedly tried to induce Drouillard a hard fall victim to his counterpunching but Orval would learn the folly of doing this the last time the pair met, bided his time and waited for an opportune moment and beat Zwick to the punch. 

July 29, 1938

It will be Schuler versus Schuler on the pitching mound Sunday when the Electric City Brewers beat the Little Chute AA team. Eddie Schuler on the slab for Kaukauna while Marv Dago Schuler will hurl with the Chuters. Both are rated tops in the league and the game should be a hurling duel.

It won't be long now before the thud of the pigskin is heard at the Packers training camp in Green Bay and the next few weeks will be busy ones for coach E. L. Lambeau and his core of assistants.

Three suspicious characters were reported about the city in a car bearing Kansas license plates Wednesday. The man in the back seat carried a gun according to police reports.

The Magic lamp of Aladdin, which brought him jewels and great wealth has been placed in the hands of the nation’s gasoline tax collectors. Tax collectors in Oregon first started rubbing the magic lamp in 1919 and $1 million a gasoline tax revenue resulted. The process seemed so simple that other states soon followed the example of Oregon and passed gasoline tax laws. Within a few years’ gasoline revenue had passed the $100 million mark. The federal government which had enviously watched the state tax collectors rubbing the magic lamp decided to do a little rubbing on their own account. In 1932 the federal gasoline tax was enacted. They promised that the measure was “only temporary” and would not continue after two years. Unfortunately for the motorist they have no magic pocketbooks. The majority of the nation’s motorist have incomes of less than $30 a week and the harder the tax collector rubs the lamp the less money the motors have left.  

Time Machine Trip to July 1897

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

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

For today’s trip Dan Coffey 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.

·         Interurban set to come to Kaukauna

·         A new fire alarm bell is placed in engine house

·         The Badger Mill destroyed by fire

Publisher Charles Raught 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

July 2, 1897

Tie a string about a yard long to a, door key and take the string in the right hand holding it so the key will clear the floor for 5 inches.  Hold the string steady enough the key will begin displaying back and forth in a straight line. Have another person take your left hand and the motion of the key will change from the pendulum swing to a circular swing. If a third person would take the hand of the second person, the key will stop.

It took 12 innings to decide the game last Sunday between Sheboygan and Kaukauna at Sheboygan. Sheboygan captured the final score 5-4 through the aid of the umpire. 

A Milwaukee newspaper says: The proposed interurban electric railroad between Neenah, Menasha and Kaukauna will be built. A portion will be completed during the present year from Menasha to Appleton distance of about 8 miles.

Come to Kaukauna to spend the Fourth of July. If you are already here, stay, for this city is going to have one of those old-fashioned let the eagles scream kind of Fourths that you will read about. The Kaukauna business men's Association has charge of the arrangements this year and they are leaving nothing undone to make the celebration a grand success. A salute of guns and canon at sunrise will give notice that today's festivities have commenced. 

July 9, 1897

Births and deaths must be registered now, under a new law which went into effect July 1. Failure to comply is punishable with a fine or imprisonment or both.

At the meeting of the common council Tuesday evening. Twenty-four saloons and to outside breweries were granted licenses. There will be a few more licenses taken out within the week but the total number of saloons in the city will be greatly reduced, there having been 43 in business July 1 last year. 

July 16, 1897

Bicycle without a wooden rim in this country is a rarity yet only a few years ago the wooden rim was unheard of in this connection. The wooden rim is strictly an American idea. Hundreds of patents for special features pertaining to bicycles are granted each year by the United States patent office but the majority of them die a natural death. The wooden rim is undoubtedly the most valuable contribution America has given to the bicycle.

Joseph Stempa, 9-years old, had a narrow escape from drowning last Saturday in bathing below the second lock. The little fellow got out into the boiling current from the lock valve gates and was carried down. Lock-tender C. A. Fuhlstrom plunged into the water when the boy sank for the last time and brought him out. It required nearly a half an hour's work to resuscitate him. 

July 23, 1897

A new alarm bell, much better toned has been placed in the belfry of the engine house, in exchange for the new one recently purchased, which did not meet requirements. The company from which the bell was purchased makes the exchange at no extra cost to the city. The common council decided to purchase a new hose wagon for the fire department.

A blind man led by a dog was seen upon the streets here last Tuesday. It was one of those cases of the faithfulness of a dog to his master. The noble beast seems to fully realize his charge and purpose. 

James Neely, a brakeman in the employ of Chicago and Northwestern road on the Ashland division, while attempting to switch at Appleton Wednesday, fell under the engine of his train and had his one leg crushed so bad it had to be amputated. He had left Kaukauna on the morning freight. 

Go out on the street corner at any time and you'll hear men talking about hard times and no work. Such fellows are not the kind that want work, they are looking for snap jobs where they can lay in the shade and draw a salary. An Appleton contractor advertised last week for 35 men to begin work Thursday. Two were all that responded.

The 11th annual reunion of the 21st Regiment Wisconsin volunteer infantry will be held in Kaukauna in 1898. This city through the Business Men's Association and the attending comrades from here extend an invitation to the survivors of this Regiment to come and enjoy the pleasures of Kaukauna next year and they accepted the bid.

July 30, 1897

Fire broke out in the third story of the Badger Mill Sunday night about 11:30 by spontaneous combustion and before it was discovered had gained such headway that the mill was doomed to destruction. Col. Frambach is of the opinion that the best they can do will be to escape with a loss of $75,000. The loss of the mill will be keenly felt in the city, for it throws out of employment about 125 men, boys and girls. The Badger plant was established in 1885 and has been one of the leading industrial institutions of Kaukauna. There have been times over 200 hands were employed at the mill. The mills monthly payroll has run as high as $6500. The plant was equipped throughout with the automatic sprinkler system but it failed to do its work.

A well-dressed couple walking down the street.

A man in Racine died leaving $35,000 to be divided between his heirs. The heirs got into fighting and now the heirs get 15,000 and the lawyers 18,000. It is better to be a lawyer then an heir.

Kaukaunaites seem to have the Alaskan gold craze about as bad as people in other sections of the country. Everybody here from business men on down are talking of the Klondike region, and those who have not already decided to throw their caster into the Alaskan ring and tested luck are dreaming willfully of the cans of gold dust they might soon possess. 

  

Time Machine Trip to July 1960

Hello Fellow Time Travelers,

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

The big wheel is spinning, with Cindee Bongean Bronstad taking over the controls and sitting 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.

It is now July of 1960 and “You are There.”  

• Bob Derus scored his first a hole in one.

• “Heart of Valley” is the new name in retail promotion for the Fox Valley.

• Senator John F. Kennedy of Massachusetts is the Democratic candidate for president.  Vice Pres. Richard M. Nixon is the Republican candidate.

• Seven young people injured in two car collision.

For the music Lovers these are the hits this month.

I’m Sorry – Brenda Lee

https://youtu.be/r-TkjEdB1kE

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

July 1, 1960

A total of 1084 Kaukauna area youngsters are currently enrolled in formally swimming, diving and lifesaving classes at memorial pool, according to Michael McGoey, pool supervisor. The program is presented six days a week by eight young people from the city.

Pat Coffey, 11, Lawe Street was described in good condition at the Kaukauna Community Hospital following an accident. He was riding his bike and was struck by a car driven by Janet Brem. He sustained an injured right leg according the hospital. Police said he had driven his bike out of a driveway into the path of the auto driven by Brem.

Thilmany Pulp & Paper Company will be shut down three days during the fourth of July weekend, according to L. C. Smith, the firm’s industrial relations director.

July 6, 1960

Bob Derus scored the first hole in one of his career Sunday on No. 6 at Fox Valley Golf Club. He hit the ball about one foot from the hole then it took one hop and rolled in.

Under the co-sponsoring of the Kaukauna Recreation Department and the Milwaukee Braves knothole program, 161 Kaukauna girls, ages 9 through 15 will attend the Brewers–St. Louis Cardinal game in Milwaukee July 21.

The third annual VFW parade, scheduled Sunday afternoon at Kaukauna in connection with the organization's annual picnic will be the largest in the history of the affair, according to Clarence Sullivan, Electric City Post 3319 commander. According to the latest count there will be at least 130 units, including marching groups and floats in the procession, which will be started near the intersection of Crooks Avenue and 10th St. shortly after noon on Sunday.  

Dwight Bastion, 18, a debate and forensic star at Kaukauna high school, recently competed in the National Forensics league nation-wide tournament at San Diego, Calif. The trip climaxed an outstanding high school speaking career for the 18-year-old Bastion, who had won acclaim in 10 to 12 tournaments each year. 

Seven Kaukauna young people sustained minor injuries Monday in a rear end collision between cars driven by Miss Dorothy Kastell, 23, W. 8th St. and Robert Lace, 18, Route 4, Kaukauna. The accident occurred near the south approach of the Lawe Street bridge about 6:30 PM Monday. All seven of the young people were taken to the Kaukauna Community hospital where three were treated for abrasions, examined for possible other injuries and released. The group included Miss Kastell, Lace, Keith Roberts, 17, Judy Jacobson, 17, Pearl Meulemans, 16, Marilyn Hilgenberg, 16, and Beverly Coffey, 16. According to the police report, Miss Kastell’s car was stopped on the bridge and Lace collided with her car from behind. 

July 8, 1960

Plans by the American Legion to establish a new club house at the end of 7^th Street was voted down by the city council after a group of residents from the area objected to the idea.

“Heart of the Valley” a new concept in retail trade promotion will unite Little Chute, Kimberly, Combined Locks and Kaukauna to attract business to their communities. A new banner has been designed showing the closely knit communities enclosed in a heart.

Boy Scout Troop 31, Holy Cross Parish, will make an outing to Gardner Dam July 10–23. Over half of the 40 boys signed up will stay for two weeks.

James R. Gustman was elected president of Kaukauna Rotary club last week exceeding Stephen Baisch.

An overall increase in construction during the first half of 1960 in Kaukauna is evidence from figures released this week by assistant city engineer and building inspector Luther Kemp. 32 permits for new homes were issued this year as compared to 31 for the same period for 1959. The total cost of new homes this year was set at $448,200 as compared to $374,900 in 1959.

Seventeen business places have installed new fronts or made major outward appearance changes in the last year according to Dave Hartjes executive secretary of the Kaukauna Chamber of Commerce. Reviewing the sound and steady business growth, Kaukauna is a greater than ever shopping center.  

   

July 13, 1960

“Rookie of the Year” Boyd Dowler has signed his contract for the 1960 season according to Vince Lombardi Head Coach and General Manager of the Green Bay Packers.

Kaukauna’s Leigh Wachel helped the Southern Division win the annual Fox River Valley Junior Legion all-star game Sunday at Oshkosh. Wachel took the mound with one out and a run across in the eight innings. He proceeded to fan four of next seven batters to secure the win 6-4.

Army Pvt. Donald C. Johnson of Kaukauna has recently completed an electrician course at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. The 20-year-old soldier entered the Army last February.

Aviation Officer Candidate Jack V. Roome of Kaukauna is undergoing a 16-week pre-flight training at the Naval Air Station, Pensacola, Fla.

Army Specialist Four John J. Ashauer of Kaukauna is participating in a field training exercise with the 4^th Armored Division in Grafenwehr, Germany. Specialist Ashauer, a mechanic in the division entered the Army in 1958 and is a 1954 graduate of Kaukauna High School.  

Thousands of people turned out Sunday afternoon to view what was the largest parade in the three-year history of the annual VFW program.  A total of 12 awards were presented to various floats and marching units by the Kaukauna VFW.

July 15, 1960

This week the metal siding and roof of the new shelter to be constructed in LaFollette Park this summer was delivered.  The $7,500 structure is expected to be completed by the end of this month according to James Gertz, recreation director.

Three of Green Bay’s four outstanding line backing corps have returned their signed contracts to the Packer office. All-pro Bill Forester and Tom Bettis and Ray Nitschke.

Two 1960 graduates of Kaukauna High School have enlisted in the U.S. Navy. They are Ronald Busse and Myron Zachowski. The boys enlisted under the Navy’s Buddy system and will go through recruit training together at Great Lakes, Ill.

John F. Kennedy Massachusetts Senator, who visited Kaukauna this past March, was nominated at the Democratic National Convention to be their candidate in the Presidential election this fall.

July 20, 1960

Army Pfc. David J. Linskens of Kaukauna recently participated with the 4^th Armored Division in a six-week exercise in Grafenwehr, Germany. Linskens, a rifleman entered the Army in 1958 after graduating from Kaukauna High School. 

Marshall Bayorgeon was elected to his 11th term as president of the Board of Education at a board meeting July 12. The board also approved the recommendation of Superintendent of Schools Julian Bichler to extend the school day 17 minutes.

Tom Frank struck out 19 batters and won his own game with a three run triple as Kaukauna's Legionnaires rang up their third straight victory, tipping Neenah in the first round of the regional tournament Thursday at Appleton, 6-4.

July 22, 1960

The common Council voted Tuesday night to grant the American Legion a liquor license on seventh Street, after an hour-long debate by citizens and their attorneys on whether the action would violate zoning ordinance. Ald. George Simon and Ald. Ed Oliva opposed the license. They stated the property was designated residential by the County in 1950.  

July 27, 1960

Capt. Edward L. Jirikowic of Kaukauna recently arrived in Korea and has been assigned as a staff officer in the 7^th Logistics Command Headquarters. 

July 29, 1960

Visitors to the Kaukauna Public Library over the summers have noticed a new change in the air. The library has installed a $4276 liquid gas air conditioner. The temperature in the library will hold at 77 degrees.

A 50-gun salute Sunday afternoon will signal the start of the weeklong Golden Jubilee celebration at Kimberly which will be observed with parades, fireworks pageant, old-fashioned games, contests and activities along with a visit from Wisconsin Gov. Gaylord Nelson Saturday evening.

Vice Pres. Richard M. Nixon Wednesday night was nominated by the Republican Party on the first ballot as a presidential candidate in the forthcoming election in November.