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From the Wolf River Herald – Weyauwega, WI August 10, 1855 issue Transcribed by Paula Vaughan March 2003 WEYAUWEGA The first store was brought into the place under the firm of Weed & Gumaer, in a dry goods box where it was kept for some time, the merchandise, C. L. Gumaer, unnailing the same to accommodate customers and again nailing up when he would close business for the night, or would in the intervals of trade, shoot ducks on the Weyauwega Lake. The first articles sold were two seyth-stones to Fried Siefer Aug. first 1850, the day on which the goods arrived. The trade, in two weeks, amounted to nearly the sum of $12. This was the first, and at that time, the only store in the county. Henry Tourtillotte having moved out his house, it was assigned C. L. Gumaer for his dwelling and store. Though new still much cramped for room, still it was much more convenient than keeping store in a dry goods box, which, having served its day, was discarded as a thing nearly worthless. There are now, in this place, three day goods stores, a drug and medicine store, a hard ward store where they manufacture and keep on hand a good assortment of tine ware, stoves & c. Beside, there are four groceries where all family necessaries can be readily obtained, and a cabinet ware room where good furniture may be found. The land new occupied by the village was entered April 30th, 1853, and the plot of the town was recorded immediately afterwards. Some settlers were on the plot, but these having agreed to build in a certain order, no irregularity was occasioned in the plan of the village. The number of lots sold since 350 viz:284 or the original plot, 29 on the south and west additions, and 37 on Meiklejohn’s addition. With few exceptions, these have been sold to those building immediately, and generally two lots to each individual, so that there is now not far from 75 buildings in which one or more families reside. Many dwellings are in the process of erection and the remainder are under contract to be built the coming Fall and Winter. Many of the exceptions will be filled early in Autumn if certain young ladies will give their consent, and we have no doubt but they will. Facts, like the preceeding, speak well for the opinion of the public in regard to the future prospects of this village. A short notice of our mechanics will most fully substantiate that there is good foundation for this favorable public opinion. With one exception, not one has left the place to pursue his occupation elsewhere. Report is, that the removal of this one caused so much exultation in a rival place, that they gave the individual a public dinner, and several highly patriotic and congratulatory speeches were made on the occasion by their bust, and most enthusiastic village orators. "Three removes are bad as a fire". Says the proverb, and we are quite sure his same individual has incurred that game penalty. T,____S,____ came in here May 1850, and commenced work as a blacksmith. A set of tools was furnished him by the Mill Company to begin operations with. Business was rather dull the first year, but still enough to give him a very good, living-But there has been ample recompense since: for coming here with almost nothing we very much doubt whether he would consider fifteen hundred dollars a valuable consideration for his property. This shows he had sufficient to do and we presume there is not a place in the state where he could have done better. Two more blacksmiths have since established themselves in business here and are doing well. There is no lack of employment. The first SHOW SHOP was established here May 2d, 1853, by A____ D. F_______; all who favor him with their custom know how much more able he is to keep a good stock in trade than he was when he first commenced. If you would know how he values his place and future prospects ask him his price for his situation and I presume you will have no occasion to think he is discouraged or in any manner inclined to murmur at his success in business. We think he is perfectly content to "let well enough" such as he enjoys "alone" E___ E___, set up trade a little after, and in prosperity, and in every respect he has been "treading hard in the footsteps of his illustrious predecessor". There has been a regular "go ahead" in his shop. These shops have had no occasion to run each other in trade as both have had more than they could do, and are inclined to ask less rather than more in the way of work. W_____ P______, commenced the manufacture of cabinet ware in September 1852, and while here, did a good business, but he left the place to establish himself in another occupation. Puffer and Bates have a good assortment of furniture at their ware rooms, and will soon be able to meet all demands for the useful and ornamental. In May 1853, L____ D____ and B____ brought on a stock of hardware and manufactured some tin. Since August 1854, they have left the trade for professional pursuits and J. C. Stringham has taken their place, and has managed with so much success that he will soon equal any similar establishment in stock and trade. M___ H. _____ commenced business as saddle and harness maker in Sept 1854, he has had no causes to complain for want of custom. In Nov. following H_____ H_____ commenced the manufacture of doors, sash and blinds, and has had employment for several hands. About the same time a carriage and wagon shop was also opened and is now managed by J____ H_____with good success in business. There is a Milliner store with a good stock in trade. Those who may trust their work with the proprietress, will have no cause to regret their choice. Continued on August 24, 1855 The foregoing sketch will show that this place has, in its growth, at no time been rapid, but steadily progressive, each branch of business coming only when called for, so that all have been constantly employed and coining money at their several trades, There has been nothing of that shifting and changing, so indicative of dissatisfaction, and want of profitable employment. All have been fully convinced that a removal to any other part of the county, or to other parts of the state would not materially better their condition or brighten their prospects. And the rapidity with which our working mechanics have accumulated property has plainly shown the wisdom of this conclusion. The growth of the place might have been much accelerated by a system of puffing and braggadocio such as is often resorted to where there is but little else to depend upon. But the proprietors of this village chose rather to await the development of the natural advantage of location, than to proceed to any hot house method urging its growth, as the natural development of resources is always more permanent than artificial. The size of the place, and the number of inhabitants (it being the largest and best built place in the county) puts the wisdom of their determination beyond all doubt. I was not a little surprised while up the Fox river the last season to find that not one in ten had ever heard of Weyauwega, while the name and situation of many places in this vicinity were perfectly familiar. The growth of this place, then, without doubt, is owing to its peculiar natural advantages of situation and its capability of sustaining business of every kind. But I should leave the notice of the village of Weyauwega far from being complete were I not to mention the exertions made for the early establishment of all the advantages to be derived from education and religion. The early inhabitants fully appreciated the value of these institutions, and have shown their estimate by their works. In May 1851 a school house was begun by subscription, as the want of political organization precluded every other way. During the summer this was finished at a sacrifice to some of the subscribers of almost the necessaries of life. The first school was commenced December 6th, 1851, by Burt Brett, who taught three terms, the winter and summer of 1851 and the winter of 1853, He brought to his work all the advantages of a thorough education and he taught "the young idea how to shoot" with a zeal and faithfulness that insured success. His pupils will ever remember him with grateful affection. With only short vacations , school has been kept up ever since. I have never heard the inquiry, what will be the expense but instead the earnest inquiry, when will school commence again? Such have been the advantages in this respect that many families have removed here to enjoy the advantages of education for their children. There is a neat building just, completed for the use of a select school to be under the supervision of Miss Sarah Gardner. Her school is now in successful operation and she is prepared to receive young ladies as pupils, who may wish to attend some school of a higher denomination and advantages than the district school. She was educated at Mount Holyoke Seminary, Mass. And is well qualified to give instruction in any or all the branches taught in the higher schools and academies. Her reputation as an instructress is such, that parents need not fear to confer their patronage upon this youthful Seminary as it will be all they could wish. The first Religious Society, was a Class of the Methodist Episcopal denomination, formed Nov 18th 1851 by Rev. Elias ????? a Local Preacher at Waupaca Falls, a man highly respected. He has since dies May 29th, 1855. This class has since been increased by additions and now forms an efficient religious body. The females by means of sewing circles have been building a parsonage for their preachers, which they are finishing up in good style so that it is now available for their present minister. In doing this they have shown a zeal highly commendable and perseverance not easily turned aside. The smaller girls have even their circle of industry, and are contributing rather a large mite for the same object. We most heartily wish them success and may they early learn what may be accomplished by united and persevering effort. The first circuit preacher was R. S. Haywood, a good faithful minister, (he came on the circuit Sept. 1852) and one who would "how to the line though the chips flew in his face." Those who have succeeded him on this Circuit have faithfully sustained the work he so well begun. The Presbyterian Church was formed May 30th, 1852, by Rev. Samuel Robinson of Winneconne. He is an elderly man but of the most persevering industry in his ministerial labors. He was the first Presbyterian minister visiting this section of the State, in his excursion preaching in the cabin of the steam boat whenever it stopped time sufficient for religious services. This Church and society, with some aid from the Church Extension Society and some general subscriptions, have built a neat commodious meeting house which was dedicated Nov. 1854 and has been in use since. With commendable generosity they have given the use of their house on the days of their appointments to the Methodist and Baptist societies for one year from Jan. 1, 1855 or until they could accommodate themselves better. The congregation is increasing on the Sabbath and the house is generally well filled. The Rev. Alfred Gardner is their first regular minister. He came June 29th 1852. He is a member of the Old School Presbyterian denomination and a faithful devoted minister, making the dissemination of the gospel not only his profession but the every day business of life. He is liked well as a minister of the Gospel and highly respected by those who have no sympathy for him in his ministerial character.
_______________________________ Transcribed and submitted
by J. J. Johnson. September 28, 1883 WEYAUWEGA (The Republican Reporter’s Rambles Reproduced) Time was in the ages gone by when Court house squabbles agitated to that extent that Waupaca were at swords points, so to speak. Waupaca won the court house and is a pretty little town with lots of whole-souled people and some business, but not near as much as her natural resources should have. Weyauwega has also good solid men of business, but not near as much as her natural resources should have. Weyauwega has also good solid men of business that have grown up with the place from its infancy and like it because it is home. They have made and are making money. And as they too have a delightful location, with the best of water-power they are contented. During the palmy days when Weyauwega was the foot-fitting point and stopping place for the vast army of freighters from the Wolf river to the north-western points of the State, before the advent of railroads, the people made money fast, but after the railroad went through and the excitement died away, the town had a set-back for a time but now, as the agricultural and stock raising resources are being developed on all sides and the subject of manufactures is being more fully put into practical shape, business is reviving and Weyauwega is certainly advancing in material wealth and popularity. The Spiritual welfare of the village is looked after by five religious denominations and all have HOUSES OF WORSHIP. Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, German Lutheran and Catholic. The young are early taught that education is the need of all and a PUBLIC SCHOOL With all the departments is maintained and an excellent corps of teachers employed. The teachers are as follows: Mr. G. Grahm, principal, of Fond du Lac Miss Carrie Wood, assistant Miss Minnie Caldwell, Intermediate The Odd Fellows and Masons each have good working lodges with a healthy membership. THE CORNET BAND The excellent music the people attending the Fair are being treated to, is from home talent – The Weyauwega Cornet Band, all residents and business boys of this enterprising village. Here they are. It starts out with an editor that is the reason they are such good "blowers". H. S. Keeney, E. B.; Arthur Rice, 1st b flat; C. A. Rice, Baritone; H. W. Potter, Tenor; J. Borngesser, Tenor; C. Goodnow, 1st Alto; F. Bornge, 2d Alto; A. Hamold, B flat Bass; L. Ogden, Tuba; W. Teal, Drum. WEED, GUMAER & CO.’S improvements this season have added wonderfully to the town. Although this firm met with considerable loss by their dam being washed out, everything is all O.K. today, and one of the best elevators in the interior of the State, costing some six thousand dollars, has been erected this season beside their mill to accommodate their own merchant milling and traffic in grain, and as the Central track comes for half a mile from the main track right to their lumber, mill and elevator business, their facilities for transportation are unexcelled. THE ELEVATOR is circular in form with twenty bins around an open court in the center, having a holding capacity of some 40,000 bushels. The propelling or elevating power of this immense granary is operated by a shaft and pulley in the cupola driven by a wire cable from a shaft in the mill. THE MILL has had a complete overhauling. All the old wheat bins have been taken out and new bran and feed bins put in their places except some room which is occupied by new machinery. The mill is driven by water power, with a never failing supply of Waupaca river water, with a good head, and has five run of stone and three set of the Gray patent noiseless rolls. Mr. W. H. Weed the enterprising junior member of the firm gives his personal attention to every branch of the company’s business. The Weyauwega Bank, T. F. Wilson, cashier, is also owned by the above firm, and is one of the principal factors in the commercial enterprise of the place. From twenty-five to fifty men, according to the season are given employment by Weed, Gumaer & Co. Weyauwega has quite a number of manufacturing enterprises among them two breweries, etc., but we have no time in this issue to particularize. There are some factories we will skip entirely. Among the live men in trace we find in Dry Goods and General Merchandise H. W. POTTER & CO. This store has been established since 1868. Mr. Potter is one of those genial, whole-souled fellows that has a drawing way about him, and then he believes in judiciously blowing the advertising horn to let people know where their store is. He wishes the people to know that they have the largest stock of dress goods ever brought to Weyauwega, having bought a $1,000 stock on purpose for the ladies to make their fall selections. Mr. Potter did not want our reporter to tell any big stories but simply invite everybody to call and see what they had to sell. That their stock was complete in every department. JEROME CROCKER is one of the Pioneer Merchants of Weyauwega, having enjoyed life, liberty and happiness in selling Dry Goods, Groceries and General Merchandise for the past twenty-five years. He also sells plows and Agricultural Machinery. This fall Mr. Crocker has made a special effort, knowing the farmers were all coming to the fair, and would bring their wives and daughters (there’s where Crocker hits it). Well he has filled his store with all the latest styles of Dress goods, in every shade and price. A glance at his stock will convince you that there has been good taste displayed in selecting with reference to the wants of the trade in this section. And Mr. Crocker says he believes his prices are as low as those "-uncomb" house in Milwaukee. All he asks is an examination of the goods. Here can be found, besides Foreign and Domestic Dress Goods, Silks, Satins, Velvets, Laces, Linens, White Goods, Domestics, Prints, etc., Gloves and Hosiery, Hats and Caps, Boots and Shoes, Underwear, Furnishing Goods, Cloaks and Dolmans, Shawls, etc. In the Grocery department they have the best teas and coffees, the best sugars and spices ever brought to Weyauwega. And even if the tobacco crop was cut off in this state, prices at Crocker’s remain unchanged. Obliging clerks will help wait on the rush expected this week, as well as at all times. MESSRS. HARDY & TAGGART were invoicing their stock. Mr. Hardy expects to go to the Pacific Coast and arrangements are about consummated for Mr. Taggart to continue the business in the Dry Goods, Groceries and Boots and Shoes line. They wished the REPUBLICAN to say the business would boom during the fair, and in the future as well. W. A. WEISBROD has been in business in Weyauwega over a quarter of a century, occupies a nice brick store, and has seen all the ups and downs in the growth of the town. Is satisfied with the future prospects, having made some money in the past. Mr. Weisbrod has purchased a larger stock of Fall and Winter goods this year than ever, and believes it will be for the interest of all friends, and enemies (if he has any) to call and get the best bargains ever offered. The stock embraces Dry Goods, Dress Goods, Clothing, Books and Shoes, Hats and Caps, and a choice line of Groceries. The impression gained from a half hour’s conversation with Mr. W. was that his long experience in trade enabled him to buy just such goods as would sell, make the best selections possible, and then sell the goods always on time for the next season’s purchase. In fact he said: "I have no trouble to sell my goods, because I believe a nimble sixpence is better than a slow shilling." Our next visit was to the "Woods", right in town too. Opposite the Weyauwega hotel. Not the shady grove but WM. WOODS. William has been connected in trade and commerce in Weyauwega for over twenty years, and for himself under his own vine and fig tree, in the Dry Goods and Merchandise line for twelve years. Mr. Woods received the REPUBLICAN like others of Weyauwega’s merchants and did not act like as if they believed a printer should be "fired out" for wanting to blow a little – for pay – on inn – Why said Mr. Woods, "of course business is business, and if the REPUBLICAN is on hand to do me a good turn, here’s good luck today." And now Wm. Has just stocked up for fair and fall time, and without wanting the people to think he is boasting he desires the ladies and gentlemen to call, also boys and little girls, if they want something. He will treat children as well as big folks, if they come to buy goods. In Dry Goods and Dress Goods, the ladies should surely be satisfied, for he has everything they want. In Ladies and Children’s Shoes his stock is complete, and the Gentlemen can find Clothing, Boots, Shoes and Furnishing Goods. He extends an invitation to all. ARTHUR RICE. Gents’ Fine Clothing and Furnishing Goods Store. Arthur keeps only the finest and best grades of goods. Why, when the REPUBLICAN Reporter called he was blacking his stove so you could almost see your face in it, because he said if he didn’t it would spoil the effect of his fine goods. That new gold and silver orchestra cornet just purchased by Mr. R. is another evidence of his taste and appreciation of the beautiful, and there is no joking, the stock of Clothing and Gents Furnishing Goods kept by him is appreciated and purchased by a good class of customers. The proof of the pudding is in the eating and if you don’t know what Arthur keeps just examine you will be convinced. He is one of the squarest boys in Weyauwega. In Drugs and Medicine Weyauwega has two first class establishments. The Pioneer drug store of the county is that of L. L. POST & SON. Mr. Post commenced business in this town when it was a wilderness. He has always been not only a thorough business man but has held many important offices in his town and been honored with the position of representative to the Legislature. He has a partner in the business – his son Lorenzo D. They enjoy a good trade and have filled in a good stock of fancy goods in connection with drugs, medicines, paints and oils. The specialty of this firm is "Their Own Condition Powders" manufactured by them. If finds a ready sale among farmers and stockmen. They also desire us to state that none but the purest drugs and medicines are kept, and the same also of wines and liquors for medicinal purposes. J. D. PUFFER. Mr. Puffer has a daisy little drug and notion store. Toilet and fancy articles being a special feature, aside from the best Drugs and Medicines obtainable. Now Mr. Puffer’s name is very suggestive for a newspaper article and if we should say he makes the finest display and sells the cheapest of any man in town undoubtedly the readers would say the editor is a "puffer" too. But laying aside joking the worthy secretary of the Agricultural Society is a good druggist and knows just how to put up a prescription and sell goods. He has a very fine stock enjoys a good trade and sells everything in his line at Weyauwega prices. And Postmaster Hutchinson says they are as low as Chicago. A. L. HUTCHINSON the postmaster. Keeps a fine line of books and Stationery, School Books, Albums, etc. He will also write up a Life, Fire or Tornado Insurance Policy for you. Mr. Hutchinson is well liked, and is one of those rising young men that deserve success. His sister is deputy in the post office. KOSANKA BROS. Hardware, Tinware and Agricultural implements dealer and general blacksmiths, on Mill street. They built the building for their general hardware and stove trade past summer. They keep the Milwaukee, the Albany and the Crown Jewel stoves. All kinds and styles for wood or coal. Run a tin shop in connection. Keep only first-class goods and sells as law as the lowest. These brothers have owned the blacksmith shop for seventeen years. Their large acquaintance gives them a good trade. E. HENING, the pioneer hardware dealer of Weyauwega offers the finest line of stoves, heating and cooking, coal or wood ever brought to Weyauwega, every department of the hardware store is full and complete. Call and see the Detroit stoves – The "Garland" is a beauty. Everything sold by E. Hening will be as represented or money refunded. Please drop in and see his stock. Manufacturer of tin, copper and sheet iron work. D. WAFLER keeps a fine assortment of Harness and Horse furnishing goods, Saddles, Collars, Bridles, Whips, Halters, Combs, Brushes, etc. Mr. Wafler employs from two to three men and he uses none but the best leather. He has had long experience in the business and knows just what a horse wants in the way of a harness or anything in that line. Farmers, Horsemen and Liverymen are invited to call. He keeps a stock of Uncle Sam’s Harness Oil always on hand. JOHN CORCORAN has just opened a Harness Shop on Mill St. His experience as a workman in this village in the past he hopes will cause many to become his customers and patrons. Repairing promptly done. The very best leather used. WM. BAUER Furniture Dealer and Undertaker, also keeps all the leading Sewing Machines made, and sells at low prices. Picture Frames, Musical Instruments, etc. Mr. Bauer is one of those happy "Deitcher mans". He has a nice assortment of goods, and wants the REPUBLICAN to say: "He keeps most everything from the cradle to the grave." Mr. Bauer certainly keeps a very fine stock of goods. His store is north side of Main St. east. J. L. WHITNEY on Mill St., has a good line of Furniture, Sewing Machines and Carpets. Mr. W. commenced in a small way about two years ago but has worked up quite a trade. He does upholstering and repairing. Call on Whitney when in town. M. H. OGDEN makes Boots & Shoes and Harness, also does general repairing. Mr. Ogden is an "old timer" and used to take the old Waupaca Spirit. He has seen the County from the wilderness to the present in all its changes from better to worse and from worse to better. A. M. ROWE the prince of good fellows (and Odd Fellows) runs the Weyauwega Hotel (formerly Tarbell House.) All his guests feel at home and the tables are supplied with the best the market affords, the beds are clean and easy and take everything into consideration. Mr. Rowe keeps the best house ever run in Weyauwega. It is just the place for the farmer, trader or commercial man to stop. A fine sample room just hits the drummer, and the house is centrally located for the business of the village. J. W. DAVIDSON has recently purchased the American house and intends to make a good house of it. J. E. CARTWRIGHT has opened a bakery and restaurant, and hopes to merit the trade and patronage of the public. Has had experience and will try and furnish good goods. Have sent for a fine line of confectionery, etc., which he hopes to open during the fair. P. P. SANDERS an old pioneer formerly ran a meat business. Is now running a Grocery & Feed Store and has a nice trade. Sanders Bros., his sons have a meat market. They ship meat and produce up the line every week and all lumbermen or dealers can be supplied by addressing them. J. BORNGESSER keeps a nice supply of Fresh and Salt Meats and Fish in season. Sausage of all kinds. MILLINERY. Mrs. E. Ogden and Miss Edwards, each furnish Millinery to the ladies of Weyauwega and vicinity. VAN EPPS & ENSIGN Blacksmiths and Building Movers. Mr. E. Ensign attends to Blacksmithing, Horse-shoeing, Repairing Machinery, etc., and Mr. Van Epps attends to the Moving business. JACOB BECKER makes Wagons, Carriages, Sleighs and other wood work and attends to general repairing of all kinds in a prompt manner. On Mill street. C. A. WHITNEY. Mr. Whitney has been industriously at work for the past three years transforming the old machine shop into a Feed and Custom Mill, and he wishes to announce to the farmers that it will be all in running order in about sixty days. It will run by steam. He has been laboring under some disadvantages but hopes to get things nicely to running soon, and we hope to see the enthusiastic and energetic old gentleman get rich before he bids good bye to Weyauwega. P. RUBIN on Mill Street, keeps a general assortment of Dry Goods, Groceries, and Provisions. He invites his German friends and everybody to call and get good bargains. Prices low and goods first-class. HENRY KLABER is running Tom Smith’s old blacksmith shop. He says he will attend to general blacksmithing, horse-shoeing, repairing, etc., and invites all to call. C. V. DOTY has an office back of the bank and is a Shaver. He shaves rich or poor alike and as often as they wish. Anything in the Barbering line, call on Doty. LAKESIDE CREAMERY T. W. Rhodes proprietor, was awarded at the Fair at Oshkosh last week for the best Creamery Butter, Sweepstakes Premium, 1st Premium and 1st Special Premium. J. A. MATHERS. A very pleasant old gentleman, and quite a Horticulturalist having an acre of land devoted to fruit culture. He keeps a News Depot, Groceries, Confectionery, Fishing tackle, etc., and is getting ready to keep a Restaurant. Oysters and warm meals at all hours. H. S. KEENEY disciple of the "Art preservative of all arts", runs the Weyauwega Chronicle. Keeney has the happy faculty of saying some good things for Weyauwega, but he don’t say enough, however, the Chronicle is the best paper in town. John Fordice and W. F. Waterhouse are the leading legal luminaries, and F. E. Wallbridge and J. S. Corbett are the principal practicing physicians. C. A. Rice is the pioneer gun smith. We did not have time to go to all in the town, and some, perhaps, that would have liked to have been noted are omitted but our columns are ready for future mention to all who desire. It pays to advertise. ____________________________ Transcribed and submitted
by J. J. Johnson. July 18, 1884 Business in Weyauwega Weyauwega has awakened to the importance of doing something for itself, or in other words some of its enterprising men have conceived the idea that the best place to put their loose change in a way calculated to do the most good for the town is in Manufacturing. The building of a good elevator there last summer and the improvement of the Weed, Gumser & Co.’s milling business was an impetus for doing more. So a short time ago when the basket factory at Evanswood burned an invitation was made to the Evanswood Company to rebuild the works at Weyauwega. Messrs. Weed, Gumaer & Co. in connection with Messrs. Hinchey, Crocker & Co., formed a stock Company with ample capital and have built a large addition to the saw mill which will be filled with the necessary machinery for manufacture of from three to five thousand dozen baskets annually. The works are all being enclosed, the machinery will soon be put in, and will run by water power. Already the saws are busy sawing out the timber for basket bottoms. When there last week we saw a large steam boiler being placed in position for steaming the basket material. When in operation this enterprise will give employment to fifty to sixty men in the place, besides an immense amount of business to the rail road. Already the Company have bought and had shipped in on the Central from Milladore sixty or seventy car loads of elm and oak logs. This basket business was planted here on Wisconsin soil at Evanswood a couple of years ago by Warren E. Hinchey the Superintendent, his brother, and brother-in-law, F. E. Phillips, and several others, practical basket makers from Cattaraugus County, N.Y. Mr. Jerome Crocker had confidence in the enterprise and put money into it and the business proved a success. It burned out a few weeks ago but pluck, capital and energy sends it forward on a larger scale. A sawed hoop factory will also soon be in operation in Weyauwega near the depot by some parties from Amherst. It is said a million feet of elm will be used annually in their manufacture.
_________________________________ EARLY REMINISCENCES OF WEYAUWEGA Submitted By: "PIONEER" FIRST PAPER Saturday, February 20, 1886 In writing reminiscences of the early history of Weyauwega, or Waupaca County, I commence the epoch of my sketches at the negotiations of the treaty of cession with the Menominee Indians, Oct. 1848; though the Indian title was extinguished to that portion of this county lying east of Wolf river several years previous, but that portion west of the Wolf and known as the Indian Lands was not surrendered and possession given until June 1852. The period of 1848 then, is evidently the period of settlement, and the time intervening between that date and the present may be classified as the epoch of growth and progress, to which my sketches will mostly be confined. Events to chronicle previous to that date are in the main a sealed book. Many wild epic of savage loves and hates, of Homeric conflicts, of burning wrongs and savage vengeance, may have been enacted upon the Indian Lands of the Tomorrow River country, (embracing Waupaca county), of which, the stories have passed into tradition, and tradition into fable, and finally passed out of memory and left no trace to guide the pen of the historian. At the time of commencement of my sketches, 1848, little was known of the country about Weyauwega, except that it was called Tomorrow River country, and inhabited and occupied by a band of Menominee Indians, who had for their chief or patriarch, Wey-au-we-ya, from whom the village of Weyauwega derives its name. Their hunting and fishing grounds were along the Wolf and Waupaca rivers and the vicinity of White Lake, in the center of which is a small island, and an ancient Indian clearing of about an acre, upon which the Indians probably cultivated a little corn with which to supplant the precarious dependence of his bow and spear. It is said the old chief was buried on this island, and through the archeological enterprise of Dr. Bliss, now of Antigo, his skull was resurrected, and now reposes quietly in the archives of the Smithsonian Institute at Washington. In 1843 the first white settler made his appearance in Waupaca county in the person of Alpheus Hicks, father of the well known and far famed Steve Hicks, who came up Wolf river from Oshkosh and made a settlement near Fremont; remained there one year then moved to Shawano Lake, after remaining a short time returned to Fremont, and with his family has resided there ever since. Weyauwega was founded by Henry Tourtelotte in 1848, together with his Indian wife, Kemink; a woman well known and highly respected by the early white settlers. Tourtelotte started from Oshkosh in the fall of 1848 to drive an ox team to Weyauwega; got as far as Rat river, camped there and waited for it to freeze so as to cross on the ice, then drove to Weyauwega, the first team in this county; pitched his tent on the bank of the Waupaca, near present mill site, and commenced getting out timber to build a mill and put in a dam. In the spring of ‘49 he formed a co-partnership with a man by the name of Lewis from Fond du Lac, and John Gill. The company employed such transient laborers as were to be obtained, and with the assistance of some Indians (very few), put in a dam and built the first mill on the Waupaca River. The mill builders all boarded with Tourtelotte, in his wigwam or tent, the only human habitation of whites at that time in Weyauwega or southward to Winneconne, and Kemink had full charge of the establishment, and who proved to be fully adequate to the task. The news of the cession of the Indian Lands spread East and South as upon telegraph lines (which was then unknown) and settlers began to flock hither seeking the Eldorado of the west - the Indian Lands of Wisconsin. The first white visitors these mill builders received were W. B. Mumbrue, John Vaughn, Alonzo Vaughn, W. B. Cooper, John Taylor, of Plymouth, and a young M. D. from New York; being a party of explorers of the country. The mill builders welcomed the travelers to their camp and to the hospitalities thereof. After looking them over and scanning them closely, one of their members - a tall gaunt specimen of the pioneer - raising his hands, and with the appearance of astonishment and dismay, exclaimed: "My God, men; we’re glad to see you and welcome you here, but you are all men. What in h--l are you to do for women?" SECOND PAPER Saturday, February 27, 1886 The adventurers, Mumbrue, Taylor, and others, left at the Mill Company’s Cabin in Weyauwega, June ‘49, finished their visit and left in search of the Vermonters Camp, consisting of W. B. Hibbard, Joseph Hibbard, and E. C. Sessions, who had a few days previous, as was learned, arrived on the Indian Lands from the east by a circuitous route, coming on the east side of Wolf River and crossing at or near Mukwa, and were supposed to be encamped at Waupaca Falls, near where the city of Waupaca is now located. Employing an Indian guide, the party started in a southerly direction over Gallows Hill, then striking an Indian trail, tacked to a northwest course and came out at the Vermonters camp near the Falls. The question is frequently asked from what that hill or ridge south of Weyauwega derived its name, Gallows Hill, I answer as I received it from H. Tourtelotte. "During the summer of ‘49 Gill and Tourtelotte first climbed the hill to get some oak timber for a specific purpose about their mill. Arriving upon the top near where the residence of A. V. Balch now stands, they both halted to take a view of the beautiful natural scenery surrounding, when Tourtelotte exclaimed, Gill this is a "galleus old place," yes said Gill and a good place for gallows to hang the d--d scoundrels and claim jumpers who are soon to infest this country. The reply of Gill was reiterated upon their return to camp by Tourtelotte, and afterward (as in the old story of three black crows) exaggerated to finding a gallows already erected and finally, to a claim jumpers hanging upon the gallows. Undoubtedly the early squatters had some object in view in keeping this story fresh in the minds of claim jumpers; at all events, the title has remained till the present time, but the story has long since passed into tradition. And now to return to our travelers where we left them at the Vermonters camp at Waupaca Falls. This camp consisted of an awning of bushes supported on four poles which comprised at that time every thing yet attempted in the way of building at the city of Waupaca, and here under the shadows of the granite ledge the travelers rested from their journey increasing the members of that rude camp to eleven in number. I leave the reader to images their situation without food or beds, they might have exclaimed in scriptural language: The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests; but we poor sons of guns have nothing wherewith to feed and rest our weary carcasses. The strenuous promptings of the inner man made the visit of our travelers brief and early the next morning they started on their return to Wolf river by a circuitous route, stopping at intervals to rest and reconnoiter; and not until they arrived at the river did they discover that John Vaughn, the purser, had lost his pocketbook containing about $500 in money and other valuable papers. A brief consultation was held and it was concluded that two of the party, with the Indian guide, should go back and search for the lost pocketbook. Although to find it would benefit them nothing so far as supplying their present wants and necessities, and they could, like Robinson Crusoe on the island, pronounce it worthless trash. However the three started back, and guided by the Indian they were enabled to keep nearly the course and track of their journey down; and when about half way between Waupaca and Wolf rivers John Vaughn discovered, under an oak tree where he had stopped to rest when coming down, his lost pocketbook. Vaughn said afterward, in relating the story, that he had been hunting for money all his life time but never was as well rewarded as upon that hunt. Returning to the river and preparing to embark, they found their birch bark canoe had sprung a leak; the Indian prepared to repair it by building a fire to melt some pitch for the purpose, during which the rest of the party, being warm and dusty, concluded to go in bathing. Stripping off their clothes and laying them upon an old log, plunged into the raging Wolf and swimming out into the river they heard the Indian yell, and turning their eyes to the shore they discovered the cause. The Indian had allowed the fire to get the advantage of him and it had spread, and running along the old log had got into their clothing. They pulled for dear life to the shore and got out just in time to save it, part in a badly charred state. John Vaughn’s coat, in the pocket of which he carried the same old pocketbook was ruined, but the pocketbook and contents, came out unscathed. John remarked, it seems as though fate was against me, and when I start on another expedition, I will leave that pocketbook at home. After dressing as well as their clothing would permit, the party stepped carefully into the birch bark canoe and embarked upon the Wolf for Oshkosh, thankful for having escaped the dangers of starvation and the elements. In the year ‘49 the first survey with chain and compass, in the Tomorrow River country, embracing Waupaca County, was made by W. B. Mumbrue, at his next visit here. Commencing at the Meander post between Section 12 and 13, Town 21, Range 13 east; he running a line westward, making east off to locate the mill site at Weyauwega, also another to locate the mill site of Townsend and Frank Powers, of Oshkosh, at Little River; then working westward and north, carried up and blazed his lines to Waupaca; and this survey was made the base in laying off the squatters claims in Waupaca County. The company of Tourtelotte and Gill did not get their mill in running order until the summer of ‘50 and that season they sold out to Weed and Birdsall, who during the winter of ‘50 and ‘51, put in a quantity of logs and manufactured lumber, sufficient to supply the home demand, which at that time had become considerable, and on the increase. The next spring Bostedo arrived and became a member of the company of Weed, Birdsall & Co. During the winter of ‘51 and ‘52, a large quantity of logs were put in but in the spring the dam went out and the mill was not got in order to saw until the month of September ‘52. The time intervening between ‘48 and ‘52 I have already classified as being the period of the first white settlement of Waupaca County. Squatters cabins had begun to dot the plains in all directions. Villages were platted, mercantile and manufacturing establishments erected and in full operation; agricultural pursuits commenced; all in violation of law, and parties occupying lands, trespassers. The Indian title to the territory of Waupaca County east of Wolf river not yet having been surrendered nor possession given until June ‘52. THIRD PAPER Saturday, March 6, 1886 During the years of ‘50 and ‘51, notwithstanding the forbidding protestations and threats of expulsion and punishment, made by the Indian agent Bruce, and other government officials, the tide of emigration continued to increase, and Squatters claims were daily made upon the forbidden lands about Weyauwega. The Squatters, having full confidence that the lands would soon be surveyed, placed in the market, their claims recognized and provisions made by the government for their relief as trespassers, (which was afterward accomplished by a special act of congress legalizing their claims, and entitling all settlers who resided on the Indian lands on the 1st day of June ‘52 to the right of preemption,) proceeded and were at this time permanently settled upon their claims in and around Weyauwega. The Billingtons, Vannostrands, Baxters, Tibbets, Jennys, A. V. Balch, Judge Beal, with a colony from Indiana and a number of others with their families; on the Walla Walla creek west of Weyauwega, L. C. Dow, G. W. Taggart, J. Potter, Tyler Caldwell and others. The timber lands north of the Waupaca River were gobbled up more for the timber than for settlement and cultivation. This season ‘51 Ira Sumner, a surveyor, was employed by the Mill Company to survey and plat the village, which plat was made, but not recorded until after the land was purchased from the government. However, a verbal agreement was made by the Company, that title to the village lots would be given at such time as they could obtain title from the government. Neither the village plat nor mill site were reported in the government survey made in ‘52, but the mill site and pond were meandered as Waupaca River and Waupaca Lake, and reported accordingly by the government surveyor, thus saving to the Company all trouble and expense that might arise in proving up and entering their claims and enabling them to give direct and immediate title to the occupants of village lots. The conditions upon which the Company had promised title to lots in the village were, that upon payment of $25, and building a house upon a lot, an adjoining lot would be donated and title given of both lots. The Weyauwegians placing the fullest confidence in the fulfillment of the verbal promise on the part of the Company, proceeded in haste to select their lots and erect building accordingly; consisting of rude board Shantys with stovepipe holes in the roofs, no chimneys and no materials to be had for building them. These comprised the buildings of Weyauwega upon nearly every alternate lot on the principal streets in ‘51. The first frame building erected in the village of any importance, was the hotel built and kept by Robert Baxter as the first and only hotel of the place, and now remaining and constituting apart of the American House. The only means of ingress and egress to and from Weyauwega during the summer season was the navigation of natural thoroughfare, Wolf River, no highway having yet been, or attempted to be laid out, or traveled, and the transportation of freight and passengers confined to a small mongrel craft between a sail and row boat of about 1 ton burthen commanded by a tall gaunt, weird specimen of a river gnome, bearing the title of Captain Jack, who had established his line and made regular trips between Oshkosh and Gills Landing, as the weather and river current would permit, carrying the United States mail by implied contract in his coat pocket and delivering it out to individuals, collecting his pay C.O.D. No post office or mail route having as yet been established in Waupaca County during the year ‘51. The first post office was established at Weyauwega, and Ben. Birdsall post master, but no mail route to supply the office. About this time the famous stern wheel steamer Montello, (alias the Peggy,) made her appearance on Wolf River, commanded by Captain Sherwood, of Oshkosh, and commenced her regular tri-weekly trips between Oshkosh and Mukwa, that is, to go up one week and try to get back the next, coming in direct competition with Captain Jack’s line, seriously disturbing and intruding upon his inalienable rights to monopolize the navigation of Wolf River and specially carrying the United States mail. Hot words and hard threats passed between the two Captains, and from the positions occupied on board their respective boats, fears were entertained of a naval conflict on the river, to avoid which a meeting was called and a committee appointed to hear their claims set forth and make an award upon the merits of the navigation aspirants. Captain Jack claimed his rights by occupation and by commanding the fasted and safest boat and cited in corroboration of his assertion a race he had witnessed a few days before between the Peggy and a saw-log, in which the log was the winner. The race was down stream and Jack gave as his opinion the reason of the Peggy losing to be a want of power in here engine to resist the force of the current against her stern-wheel, which over-powered the steam, turned the wheel the other way and hauled the craft up stream, thereby enabling the log to slip by and win the race. Capt. Sherwood pled only the merits of steam over wind and muscle, and the Peggy took the cake. Captain Jack became disheartened and left for more congenial waters while Capt. Sherwood became sole navigator of the Wolf River. This season a post office was established at Waupaca, with David Scott as post master, and another at Lind with G. W. Taggart as post master. A mail route from Green Bay to Waupaca, and from Strong’s Landing (Berlin) to Waupaca was established, leaving Weyauwega out in the cold. We then hired a cheap boy to carry the mail from Lind once a week, and heartily thankful were the citizens for the improvement of a weekly mail during the winter season. It may be well to note, in sketching the first mill enterprises in Waupaca county, that, although the Weyauwega and Little River mills were commenced and in process of construction during the ‘48-49, yet the mill of Townsend Powers was completed and in running order first, and the lumber used in constructing the first buildings in this village was manufactured and hauled from the Little River mill. The Grignon mill, first on the Little Wolf, was commenced in ‘47, before the treaty of cession, he reserving the site and finishing it in 1848. The first lumbering, of any account, was done by the lesses of that mill, Eliphalet Gordon and his son, Dud Gordon, who assisted by Senator Sawyer, got in during the winter of 48 and 49 a large amount of logs. They manufactured, rafted, and run down the river to Oshkosh a large amount of lumber, which found slow sale at $4 per thousand. And here it is said by hard labor in this lumber camp did the Senator, as a day laborer, lay the foundation for his immense fortune to loom up on the dim future, and be finally consummated by the sagacity of pine land statesmanship. FOURTH PAPER Saturday, March 13, 1886 During the summer of 1851 the growth of Weyauwega was augmented by the arrival of many substantial business men and families and many permanent dwelling and business houses were erected, prominent among which L. L. Post built and stocked his store on the corner now occupied by Crane and Chase. Tibbetts built the Weyauwega House on the corner occupied by Woods’ store, and afterwards sold it to J. D. Post. Judge Beal built dwelling house and store at the east side of the village. A boarding house and store occupied by Charley Gumaer, near the mill was also built, all well stocked, and business well booming for a yearling village. East of the village and to the north of the Waupaca river, was at this time, settled by a roving band of Menominee Indians. These roving bands held their quarters at or near the mouth of all the tributaries of the wolf from Oshkosh to Shawano. The region about was much frequented by them with their patriarchs, or under chiefs, while their headquarters, with the head chief of the tribe, or nation, occupied the region at or near the mouth o of the Wolf and Fox rivers; to which they easily transferred the spoils of their hunting and fishing expeditions, by the system of streams which thread this region, in their light canoes to their more permanent quarters on the lower streams, where sites of Indian villages of modern antiquity were common; no evidence of any considerable village having yet been located as far up the stream as the mouth of the Waupaca river. There was at this time quartered at Weyauwega, A-kom-mote, a venerable chief of the Embarrass River band; a large brass collar was about his neck, and attached thereto was a large silver medal, presented to him by Gov. Dodge for his bravery while assisting at the capture of Black Hawk during the Black Hawk war, together with a large ancient copper knife in his belt claimed by him to have been manufactured from copper taken from an extensive mine near the falls on the Embarrass, and that he was the only Indian who knew or could point out or locate the spot. Judge Beal’s store during the winter was quite a resort for loungers; among them a good proportion of Indians, Indian traders and interpreters. Among the most noted were Bill Johnson, Bill Powell and Bill Masters, all taking par stock in old A-kom-mote’s visionary dreams and traditions. After spring opened, these credulous listeners, organized an exploring expedition, consisting of Judge Beal, Bob Baxter, Hank Tourtelotte and Bill Johnson, interpreter. For a small stipend prevailed upon the old chief to go up the river with them and point out the spot, the copper mine. The organization being completed and outfit prepared, consisting of two large birch bark canoes, stocked with camp equipage, tent and blankets, together with a well-stocked larder of provisions, and last but not least, a liberal supply of whisky and tobacco, our little band of explorers, on a beautiful morning in May ‘52, carefully located themselves in the canoes at Gills Landing and embarked up the river on their perilous journey of discovery, their minds filled with visionary imaginations of riches and honors to be awarded them upon their return. Nothing occurred to disturb the monotony of their first day’s journey. No sound to be heard except the splashing of their paddles upon the water and the rattle of little Indian drums, suspended upon poles stuck along the river bank and the sight of little white flags floating over the traps of bark and sticks, with which the Indians are accustomed to cover their dead; together with evidences of the ancient occupancy of this region by the mound builders. Scarcely a lake or a stream of this country but exhibits everywhere along its margin these conical structures which so much puzzle the archeologist and antiquarian. Arriving at the mouth of the Little Wolf, near Mukwa, the party landed, pitched their tent for the night, heartily demolished their camp rations, wrapped themselves in their blankets, and despite the mosquitoes singing, were soon embraced by Morpheus for the night. The next morning, after satisfying the promptings of inner man, they embarked up the river. The second night they camped at the mouth of the Embarrass at its junction with the Wolf. This spot was the favorite hunting and fishing grounds of old Akommote and his band. While journeying hither, a short distance below, they were suddenly called to a halt by the old fellow, saying he was now in the region of the graves of many of his braves, and that the Great Spirit had told him that when he passed he must always stop and do homage to the dead by leaving them something they most desired to accompany them in the happy hunting grounds. It took but a moment to interpret his meaning. The little tin dipper was filled with whisky and a large plug of tobacco placed in his hand. He stepped up to the grave and making a short speech placed the dipper to his lips, drained the lion share and turned the balance on the grave. Taking the copper knife from his belt, he cutoff a part of the plug, placed it in his pouch and laying the balance on the grave, pronounced his benediction and retired to his canoe. The next morning, after breakfast, the party resumed their journey up the Embarrass, stopping at intervals to view occasionally the grave of some brave and do the usual homage as well as make a close inspection of nature’s scenery, where the axe of the woodsman had never yet resounded through the dense forest that skirted the margin of the river for miles; passing through rapids where the water pour over pyrite rocks that glistened like gold, they gathered specimens, which the old Indian very sedately informed them was not copper. In the afternoon our party was overtaken by a violent rain storm, and being drenched to the skin concluded to camp a few miles below the falls. Here, while drying themselves and smudging mosquitoes they were amused and entertained by old Akommote’s fish stories, giving them encouragement for catching plenty of sturgeon at the falls; telling of the immense amount caught there yearly, by the Indians, smoked, dried, and transported down the river, supplanting the necessity of smoked halibut, and relating his tradition concerning the yearly visits of the sturgeon. That just below the falls in a deep eddy under the bank, the father of all sturgeon lived, and all from the river and lakes below made their pilgrimage and yearly visits to him. When asked if he had seen him, answered "Yes; many times," and if they would paddle carefully on the opposite side of the river when they passed up, he would show him to them. The next day, arriving at the spot, Akommote motioned them to paddle on the other side, and arriving opposite the spot, they halted and the old fellow pointed out the spot, with about six rods distance between his head and tail. The party set up a loud laugh at the old Indian’s expense, and accused him of lying to him. The old fellow made no reply but stoically sat in his canoe, and tears began to course down his brawny furrowed cheeks. When asked why he wept, he replied, "To think they should distrust his word;" still persisting that he had many times there seen the father of all sturgeon. The only plausible foundation for this tradition arrived at was, that at some time during sunny days or moonlit nights, a shadow had been cast upon the water by the trees, and wrought up in the old fellow’s mind to the form of a fish. The band apologized to him, acknowledged the truth of his tradition, and moved on up to the falls, where they again pitched their tent for the night; calculating to renew the journey and reconnoitering on foot in the morning, the all important copper mine, now almost within their imaginations grasp. The night was warm and mosquitoes thick. The old chief built a huge smudge out side the tent. A fine subject for the pencil of the artist might have been the picture of these gnomes sitting upon the ground or stalking around that mosquito smudge, which ever anon flashed up throwing a lurid and weird glare upon their bodies, likening them to any thing from Italian brigands to Feejee cannibals. Toward morning, the mosquitoes ceasing hostilities somewhat, the party crept into the tent to obtain a little sleep if possible, before morning. The old Indian refused to take quarters in the tent, and wrapping himself in his blanket, stretched his brawny form upon the ground outside. At dawn, the party arose refreshed by short sleep and with dreams and visionary anticipations of success, from which they were ultimately to be loaded with riches and crowned with mineral honors. Replenishing the dilapidated smudge, they awaited the appearance of the old Indian, who, at this time, aroused up, and unwrapping his blanket, stalked forward to the fire, apparently in deep meditation, and without word or sign, stood there like a statue for some moments, not even designing to reply to any questions asked him. When his morning rations were doled out in the little dipper, refused to demolish it; a thing unheard of before in the annals of Indian history, and created some alarm in camp. They were soon relieved when the old fellow, stretching himself up to a suitable position for the occasion, very sedately and sanctimoniously informed them that the Great Spirit had appeared to him in a dream that night and told him to give no further information to the white men concerning the copper mine. "The jig was up!" Consternation and dismay seized the little band of adventurers, and reigned supreme for a few minutes. In their fits of rage and disappointment they threatened to murder, shoot and burn the old chief if he did not further divulge the secret of the much coveted copper mine. Judge Beals caught up a gun, cocked it, and placing the muzzle to his swarthy breast threatened to blow him into the happy hunting grounds )which the Judge thought he coveted.) He stood like a statue, unflinched and unmoved by all threats and demonstrations of intimidation they could devise. Finding threats of no avail they tried coaxing and bribery; all to no effect, so far as inducing the old chief to violate a dreaming injunction of the Great Spirit, who hates a coward. The party became demoralized and after a brief consultation, packed their traps and embarked down stream. They arrived safely at Gills Landing after a six day’s journey in search of a copper mine; thankful for having so nearly escaped the dangers of navigation and Indian tradition. Thus endeth the first mining expedition fitted out from Weyauwega. FIFTH PAPER Saturday, March 20, 1886 By an act of the legislature of 1851, Waupaca county and town of Waupaca was organized, the territory embraced within the limits of organization constituted both town and county. By the organic act, Mukwa was made the temporary County seat, with a proviso that two years after the first annual election, the voters should vote for the permanent location of the county seat. The first election held under the requirements of the legislative act was held at Rolf’s Tavern at Mukwa in the April following, and was considered by the voters to be the first town meeting for the town of Waupaca. Peter Meiklejohn, Tyler Caldwell and David Scott were elected Supervisors; Charley Gumaer, Town Clerk, and Ware, Boyd, Sumner, and Brandy, Justices of the Peace. All duly qualified, and proceeded to discharge the all important duties incumbent upon their respective offices. The May following their election the Town Board of Supervisors held their first meeting, and, acting in the double capacity of Town and County board, proceeded to set off, organize, and establish the town of Mukwa, Lind, and Centerville, Weyauwega, increasing the number of organized towns to five in this county. They also established eight road districts in the county at this first meeting. Waupaca was still attached to Winnebago County for judicial purposes; our justices not yet having commenced to spread their judicial lore upon their docket records. The local jurisprudence of this county was, at this time, confined to the Indian code, which was brief and sure. No dilly-dallying or postponing the day of grace or vengeance. In the spring of ‘52, a band of Indians with their families were camped on the north side of the Waupaca river just east of the village, for the ostensible purpose, as had been their custom every spring for years, of making maple-sugar. Many of the old settlers are familiar with the old Indian sugar bush, at and around the Hatter place. While engaged in this sweet vocation, that is, the squaws and children, the lords of creation stalked about the camp, smoking their pipes, and looked down with disdain upon manual labor, even if it was manufacturing the sweet that so tickled their palates. Two strapping, stalwart braves, while thus stalking around, got into a quarrel, when one of them called the other the worst epithet in the Indian vocabulary "A squaw and a coward," a signal to a deadly combat. His adversary sprang upon him, and with savage ferocity, plunged a large knife, deep to the hilt, into his breast, dropping him dead at his feet. An unearthly yell went up throughout the camp. The murderer stood stoical and unmoved, awaiting the hand of the avenger. A messenger was sent on the run to the village for Tourtelotte, an Indian trader, who, upon receiving the news, and understanding the code to be, that under certain mitigatory or extenuating circumstances, penalty for crime could be commuted to the avenger, immediately started to the scene of the tragedy with a pack of goods. Arriving upon the grounds he found every thing in readiness for an Indian execution. Two graves had been dug, upon the side of one lay the body of the murdered victim ready for interment, on the side of the other, with feet and legs hanging in the grave, sat the murderer. Immediately behind the doomed man stood his executioner, a large, brawny, savage-looking squaw who happened to be the nearest of kin to the murdered brave, and who, under their code, became the avenger and executioner; with tomahawk uplifted, she earnestly awaited the signal to send it crashing through his skull. Standing around in a circle, enclosing both, was a dozen or more Indians and squaws continuing their unearthly yelling. A scene for the pencil of an artist. Tourtelotte, taking in the situation at a glance, began to lay out his goods upon the ground and offered commutation to the avenger, at which the tomahawk of the executioner dropped by her side. After a moment’s consultation, "Cowin-ne-she-shin" rang thro’ the crowd, and up went the tomahawk into the air. Tourtelotte increased the pile and down went the hatchet again. Another moment of suspense. Again the same exclamation, and again up went the hatchet the third and last, as is their custom. The trader threw out another blanket, and the hand of the executioner was staid. The victim slowly drew his legs out of the grave, straightened himself up with the usual Indian grunt, "Ugh!" and spoke a few words purporting to be thanking the Great Spirit. Crime expiated; murder avenged by commutation, satisfactory to the whole camp. It may be asked where the trader got his pay for his goods? Bill Masters says all accounts of traders and interpreters are preferred claims at all Government Indian payments - and he knows. In the same summer of ‘52, another similar tragedy was enacted in the town of Weyauwega just above Gills Landing on the Wolf. An old feud existed between two chiefs of Wolf River bands, Nimetosh and Wakecheon, one having headquarters at the mouth of the Little Wolf and the other at the mouth of the Schioc. While coming down the river in their canoes, accompanied by their respective bands, Nimetosh with his squaw took the lead of the fleet. Rounding the bend at the upper end of the island opposite Gills Landing, he paddled to the shore and got out, taking his gun with him, leaving his squaw sitting in the canoe. Taking a position he anxiously awaited for Wakecheon to round the bend and make his appearance in range of his rifle. His murderous longings were soon satisfied, and when within range Nimetosh drew a bead and sent the leaden messenger through the heart of Wakecheon, and he pitched forward into his canoe, dead. Nimetosh stepped to his canoe, threw in his gun, and with his squaw, shoved it adrift down stream. He stepped a few steps up the bank and, folding his arms across his breast, coolly awaited the hands of his avengers. Both bands hastily landed and formed a circle around him. The work of trial, conviction and sentence was quick and sure; much quicker than I can sketch it. I have been somewhat specific in sketching these incidents for the purpose of showing, to what extent the untutored savage places his faith and confidence in his traditionary maxims, and coolly submits without a murmur or a flinch, with no shuffling or effort to evade his just doom, for the Great Spirit hates a coward. Examples worthy of more civilized emulation. As in the other case, a squaw was nearest of kin, and became the executioner, but other relations in the ring took an avenging hand in the execution. The old chief stood without a murmur, no turban about his head, but bared for the tomahawk, during the preliminary demonstrations of chanting, howling and waving of hatchets in the air. While marching slowly around, the executioner, coming within suitable distance, the signal was given, and down came the tomahawk, crashing into the brain of Nimetosh; each in turn as he passed in the ring, gave him an extra whack, until he was literally hacked to pieces. The bodies of the two chiefs were placed in canoes and taken to their final resting places on the Wolf river. One near the place of the tragedy, and the other near the Schioc, and many of the old settlers have stopped when passing to view the graves and listen to the little Indian drums rattling in the wind. These are the only two Indian murders on record ever committed in the town of Weyauwega. --------------- MR. EDITOR: In Early Reminiscences of Weyauwega, by Pioneer, published in your paper, the historical part, though mainly correct, is not entirely so, and with your permission, I will point out a few errors in the record. In the first place the Indian Weyauweya, whose name was given to the post office and afterwards to the town, was not one of the Menominees who inhabited the region about Tomorrow River and White Lake, but was one (I don’t know of what tribe) who had been through the Black Hawk war with Governor Henry Dodge, was well acquainted with all the territory, and was employed by James D. Doty as a guide in his early explorations of the country many years before Weyauwega or Tomorrow River were heard of; particularly during the campaign in 1838, when he was a candidate for delegate to Congress for Wisconsin Territory, which then embraced the present States of Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, and that part of Michigan between Wisconsin and Lake Superior. When a petition was sent to Washington for the establishment of a post office at Tomorrow River Mills, it was directed to Governor Doty, then the Representative of this third Congressional district, and there being already one office in the State with the name selected, another must be substituted, and Mr. Doty gave it the name of his favorite guide, Weyauweya. A similar circumstance happened when a post office at the Walla Walla settlement was asked for, Governor Doty notified the petitioners that some other name must be selected. Lind was proposed by the inhabitants and the office established with that name. Pioneer says "No post office or mail route having as yet been established in Waupaca county during the year 1851. The first post office was established at Weyauwega with B. Birdsell post master, but no mail route to supply the office." The facts are, a mail route was established in the winter of 1849 and ‘50 from Green Bay to Plover, and the contract to carry the mail was let to O. E. Dreutzer, then living in Plover, service to commence July 1, 1850. The route traveled was through Duck Creek, crossing Wolf river at Mukwa, thence through Weyauwega, Greenwood, and Waupaca to Plover, and post offices were established at all these places. Horace Ralph, was appointed post master at Mukwa, Simon C. Dow, at Greenwood, (on section 1 in Lind,) and David Scott at Waupaca. One circumstance happened at the time that will be remembered by all who were then residents in this part of Waupaca county that will settle the date beyond dispute. Arrangements had been made by the settlers at Waupaca, Walla Walla and all the surrounding country to celebrate the Fourth of July, at the foot of the lone pine tree on the hill about two miles south-west of the falls. Everybody had prepared their grub, patriotic speeches and toasts for the occasion, and all expected to have a hilarious old time. Soon after daylight on the morning of the Fourth the report was circulated through the settlement that Duane Ware, then a boy about twelve years old, had started on horseback with the mail for Plover two days before and was expected back the next day, but had not put in an appearance and was undoubtedly lost or had been devoured by bears or wolves. A requisition was made on every able-bodied man in the settlement to turn out and find him, which was promptly responded to. Nearly every man in the place started, some with teams, others with axes or other tools, for making roads or bridge, all of which were necessary, for there were no roads in the county only trails, and they so blind it was frequently impossible to follow them. After a great deal of hard labor in getting through the woods and brush we found the boy about four o’clock in the afternoon, a few miles from where the village of Amherst is located, still riding his horse among the brush, so thick he could scarcely see a rod ahead of him, apparently in a dazed condition. We were much rejoiced at finding the boy and getting safe home again, but our Independence celebration was a failure. Mr. Ware and his family are still residents of the town of Waupaca, and will verify all the statements here made. Yours, CRITIC SIXTH PAPER Saturday, March 27, 1886 I am glad to notice that my sketches are sufficiently appreciated to call forth criticisms, which I heartily invite, and through which I am anxious to stand corrected. In the matter of post routes, so far as dates are concerned, I may, perhaps after further investigation upon the subject, stand corrected, but not without further satisfactory evidence. Critic says he will relate an incident that will set at rest all controversy as to dates of post routes, an proceeds to relate an incident of the post-boy getting lost July 4th. A good story for a sketcher, but without date except 4th of July. Now that celebration is well-known to have been July 4th, ‘51, and it looks plausible to me that that was the boy’s first trip from Waupaca to Plover. Yet when Critic makes the matter a little plainer with regard to dates, I will gladly stand corrected in the matter of post routes, and also with regard to my Indian traditions, but not until the evidence eminates from a thorough-bred, who know his own tribe. Now to my sketch. In April, 1852 Weyauwega held its first Town Meeting and elected the full quota of officers, the territory of the town embracing what is now the town of Fremont and Caledonia. During the year ‘51 a goodly number of families had settled on the banks of Wolf river, at and near the present site of the village of Fremont, among which were the Springer’s, at Springer’s Point, Sumner, Simon’s, Mooney’s, Sherburnes, Brickley’s, J. B. Hunt, John Fordyce and others. This constituted the most important settlement of the town of Weyauwega, who had chosen this section, as is supposed, for the purpose of reaping the advantages of navigation, and the spoils incident to the success of the disciples of a Nimrod or an Isaac Walton, whether it might consist of biped, quadruped, amphibious, or aquatic edibles, to supplant the more precarious necessities of agricultural pursuits. It was getting late in the season, when one day in September, Ben Brickley, who was at that time considered something more than an amateur hunter, just before sundown sallied out from the river, east, with an old rusty rifle, anticipating that some bear or fat buck might thrust their bodies within shooting range, the adage at that time in Weyauwega being game, fish, or no meat, and got to get something. Ben had traveled about a mile from the river when his highest anticipations were realized by a deer making its appearance. He drew a bead and brought it down, but only wounded it. It was getting dark and he gave up the chase for the night to renew early the next morning with his dog. The news of a wounded deer spread through the neighborhood as rapidly as the first cry of suckers in the spring in Weyauwega. J. B. Hunt, a well known old settler of Weyauwega, who never had fired a gun or seen a deer in his life, was the first to volunteer assistance to Brickley. Early the next morning, before breakfast, and without supplying themselves with any lunch, or even a match to build a fire, and somewhat collapsed for meat in the inner man, yet filled with enterprise for packing in venison outside, our two disciples of Nimrod, with one gun between them, and a dog, started out, their minds absorbed with anticipations of the luscious repast they were to enjoy, in the shape of a juicy steak from a fat deer. Yum! Yum! The dog soon started up the wounded deer, and Ben brought him down for keeps. It was quick work cutting him up, and preparing their packs, balanced them upon their shoulders, and started, as they supposed, for the river, then about a mile distant. The weather was cloudy, and the more they traveled, the more they didn’t come out to the river, but on thro’ those Caledonia swamps and marshes they sped their way, without chart or compass, latitude, longitude, landmark, or footprint of human being, or domestic animal directing their course, until they arrived at a lime ledge, which must have been near Spangler’s Corners. Here they gave way to fatigue and hunger, unloaded their packs and sat down to rest. Had they provided themselves with matches to build a fire, they might have satisfied the cravings of hunger with some roast venison, and when they attempted to substitute the gun to make a fire, they found that the lock had been lost in the journey through the underbrush. After resting a spell, and calculating the time to be past noon, and no prospect for dinner, the cut out the hams, gathered them up, and leaving the balance of the deer, started on, somewhat refreshed, and with much lighter packs. Keeping the edge of the lime ledge they must have taken a northeasterly direction, toward New London. Onward they rushed, over logs, through swamps and brush, expecting every minute to come out to the river and home, until just at sunset, when they struck Wolf river, at the mouth of the cut-off, nearly five miles above Gills Landing. They could not, as others are supposed to do when lost, have traveled in a circle, for they must have traveled over 25 miles that day. They stood on the bank of the river, but of the course or direction they knew nothing, only that the water ran down stream, but in a contrary direction from what it ought to, and how to utilize their much coveted navigation and spoils of the chase to their interests, was a puzzle for them to solve. If they should attempt to follow the bank of the river it would lead them into impassable bayous, and if they struck out from the river they would again be lost. Walking along the bank a few rods they luckily came upon a lot of shakes that had been split out from a tree and the top log left lying on the bank. It was growing dark and they hastily made the shakes into a sort of a raft, binding them together as well as they could, and put the two venison hams on board. It was a case of life or death to Hunt to get on board, for he could not swim an inch, yet he carefully seated himself upon the frail craft with a shake in hand for a paddle. Brickley undertook to get aboard but it began to sink and he jumped ashore, which sent Hunt out into the current, and down stream with the meat. Ben rolled the old tree top into the river, and with gun in hand, climbed aboard and holding onto one of the limbs, floated on after Hunt, who dare not move or turn his head to look after his companion in distress, but Ben hallood that he was coming on the old log. Both crafts took the center of the stream; the shake raft going the faster was soon out of hearing. The night was very dark, and it was truly a trying time for our Nimrods; Hunt, with a few slippery shakes between him and a watery grave, and Brickley on a rolling tree top. They floated on till nearly midnight, neither knowing where they were, only that they were on the raging Wolf. Finally Hunt descried a dim light ahead, and, as he says "You better believe I gave loud signals of distress," and Tourtelotte, at Gills Landing, came out with a canoe and rescued him and his much coveted venison. They then pulled up stream after Brickley, and taking him from the tree top, returned to the Landing, where Kemink got them up a rousing supper, and they went to bed to dream of better times in more civilized lands. In the morning they engaged a canoe and embarked down stream for Fremont. When they arrived with their spoils, many anxious neighbors were awaiting their arrival, who made many inquiries concerning their excursion and the loss of the gun lock. The replies were very brief, and our two heroes gathered up their venison and marched quickly home without giving a steak to the anxious bystanders. Hunt says that was the dearest deer hunt he ever experienced, and he has never been anxious for another. [Pioneer fails to state what became of the dog. We are much interested in his fate. - Editor] SEVENTH PAPER Saturday, April 3, 1886 The editor inquires, What became of the dog mentioned in my last sketch? The last that was seen of him he was disappearing around a hill after a deer; although it is asserted by some of the Fremont Nimrods, that his phantom voice may still be heard bugling through the woods and swamps of Caledonia. During the years ‘51 and ‘51, our municipal courts had become thoroughly organized, the inhabitants of this village had employed a preacher, or missionary, to dispense the gospel once in four weeks, and a Sunday school on intermediate Sundays. Not in the church, for we had none, but in the school house located near the spot where the jail now stands; showing that the early settlers of Weyauwega were not unmindful of the early precepts taught by their Puritan fathers "way down East in the land of steady habits." In the spring of ‘52 the first saloon was opened in this place and kept by one Theirman; whose stock of in trade consisted of a barrel of whisky and tin dippers. No lager beer or other beverages to supplant the dire necessity of more powerful alcoholic stimulants; which came to us in two brands, manufactured by Dakin in the south part of Waushara county, (who afterwards committed suicide), and branded Dakin’s best and Dakin’s d--dst. Our saloon was not supplied by the former but the latter, without legal restraint or license, and in violation of the excise laws of Wisconsin. The evil effects of the liquor traffic became too intolerable for the good people to endure and legal measures were adopted to prevent the further practice and bounce the Saloon-keeper, as usual in such cases made and provided. George Tarbell, a far-famed old settler, was the first Justice to hold a Court in the village. Complaint was duly made, defendant, Saloon-keeper, was arrested and brought before the court in custody. George had prepared a docket from a daybook, about 10 inches square, and half an inch thick; placing a table in the shanty court room, he sedately opened and spread it out; then with grave, stentorian voice called the case. At this moment a disturbance and row commenced among the crowd. The court then cried out, Gentlemen? "I want order." Quiet was partially restored, but for a moment only; it became evident that forty rod was none the less fighting whiskey, and at it they went again. The court at this crisis cried out with great earnestness; Gentlemen? I want order and (here he swore around oath) I will have order; but all to no purpose the row had become thoroughly inaugurated and have it out they must. George became disgusted, closing and slamming his new docket upon the table cried out, Gentlemen, you can all go to h--l, I will have no more to do with the Wisconsin judiciary. He skipped out and resigned, terminating the first court held in Weyauwega by the whites. It may be worthy of note here that while these court scenes were being enacted in this place by the whites as well Indians mentioned in my former sketch, Esq. Brandy was quietly plying his vocation of Justice Circuit and Supreme Court of Mukwa the County seat, from whose decisions there was no appeal. In the fall of ‘52, I attended a similar law case to the one related, the trial being held before the Mukwa court, Esq. Brandy presiding. The complaint was against Rolf, the hotel-keeper, for violating the excise laws, and selling liquor without a license. It will be remembered that in those days we had no Graham laws, and every well regulated hotel in this section of the country, kept a good supply of Dakin’s brand, and landlords were not restricted in their sale or consumption. But he law and order days of civilization had begun to dawn upon Mukwa, and the necessity apparent of their rigid enforcement, under the strict disciple of Esq. Brandy. The case was a jury trial. Chauncey Foster, a great man, well-known from Mukwa to Oshkosh, officiated as constable and had charge of the jury. Lawyers Crary, Smalley, Geo. LaDow and another young law student, all from Oshkosh, were engaged in the case. It was late in the afternoon when John Gill and myself made our appearance in the court-room, a rude, double-geared shanty just across the river from Rolf’s hotel. Upon our entry, the court, from courtesy to strangers, ordered a brief recess, which gave us an opportunity to become somewhat acquainted with court attorneys, jurors, and especially the constable Chauncey Foster. Time of recess having expired, court was again called, and giving the constable strict orders to keep perfect order under pain of imprisonment, proceeded to take the balance of testimony in the case. There were no reporters at that time, but I will rehearse the minutes of the testimony of one witness near as I can recollect which is an index to the whole. Question by the attorney: "Acquainted with Rolf?" "Yes." "Ever drink any whisky at his tavern?" "No." "Ever drink any brandy?" "No." "Ever drink any kind of liquor there?" "No." "Ever drink anything there?" "Yes." "Well what was it?" "I don’t know. Some Wolf river water, sugar and some other dope put in, in a kind of a goose drink." "No cross examination is required; take your seat. The testimony is closed." The arguments of all those Oshkosh lawyers were - I’ll simply say immense. The court then called Chauncey up and swore him in a very grave manner to take charge of the jury, with the injunctions against eating or drinking, putting great stress upon the exception, cold water. The jury retired for deliberation to the addition of the shanty. It was nearly midnight when, left sitting around the court table were the four court lawyers, Gill, myself, and a few others, waiting for the verdict of the jury; all hungry and thirsty, not having tasted food or drink for six hours; a sober, sad, and sedate looking set of men, with no remedy but to sit and wait. The court, we knew was equal to any emergency for strategy, and we silently waited his action. Soon the order came: Chauncey? The court orders some cold water taken to the jury. Don as the court ordered, sir. Give me a little if you please. He drew the stopper, smelled of it, and placing the jug to his lips, slacked his thirst, and passed the jug to the attorneys. They followed suit, and the two strangers, (Gill and myself,) were not left out of the ring by the court. "Chauncey, take the cold water to the jury, and tell them to agree on the verdict. It was but a few moments when Chauncey returned announcing the agreement. "Gentlemen have you agreed upon your verdict," sedately came from the court. The foreman gave the verdict, "not guilty." The prisoner is discharged, and the court gives him counsel to sell no beverage at his tavern except cold water. The jury is also discharged. Chauncey? Have you any more cold water in that jug? It is stated that Esq. Brandy’s precedents of practice have ever been considered worthy of emulation by most courts of this county and that is, don’t stint the jury on cold water if you expect a speedy and correct verdict. --------------- Mr. EDITOR: In your paper of the 20th inst, I endeavored to correct a few errors in the early history of Weyauwega and Waupaca County by Pioneer, but find from his next paper that he is as much muddled in his understanding of the English language as in his statements purporting to be facts. In my communication I stated that a mail route was established in the winter of ‘49 and ‘50; that the contract to carry the mail was let to O. E. Dreutzer, service to commence July 1, 1850; after describing the route traveled and the post offices established on it, I related a circumstance that happened at that this time. Now the only time mentioned is July 1, ‘50, which I think is definite enough for any person of ordinary understanding, if not for Pioneer. In conclusion I stated that Mr. Ware and his family were still residents of Waupaca and would verify my statements. Now if Pioneer had any doubts of the truth of my assertations he might easily ascertain all the facts by investigation, which it would seem to be more reasonable than to cavil or contradict without knowing anything about the matter. There are three persons still living in Waupaca who were employed by O. E. Dreutzer in ‘50 to carry the mail on the route between Green Bay and Plover. Pioneer next says, Now that celebration is well known to have been July 4, ‘50, but it is very uncertain what he means by that celebration. I stated distinctly, that our anticipated celebration in ‘50 was a failure and gave sufficient reason for it. The 4th of July ‘51 was celebrated at the lone pine hill by a goodly number of the inhabitants of the county, but Pioneer was not one of them. The disasters attending the carrying of the mail on Mr. Dreutzer’s route did not end here. He had employed Edwin Buel as carrier on that part of the route between Green Bay and Waupaca, furnished him with a pony and the necessary equipments. Buel started from Waupaca the morning of the 5th of July ‘50 on his first trip, apparently much elated with his new business. After being away several days past the time for his return, a committee from Waupaca started in pursuit of him. When they got to Green Bay they learned that he had delivered his mail in due time and started on his return the next morning. The committee then came back to Waupaca expecting either to meet Buel on his next trip or find him in Waupaca, but were disappointed as he had not been seen or head of, and the search was abandoned. Some days afterward he made his appearance at the Weyauwega saw mill in about as forlorn a condition as can well be imagined. He was nearly starved to death, his clothing was about all torn off, and his hands, face and body were covered with scratches and bruises, the effects of wandering through swamps, brambles, and marshes. He stated that as he was riding along between Bruce’s Mill and Mukwa, he discovered that his mail bag was lost, and being tired of riding on horseback he got off; tied his horse, and started back on foot to find the bag. After traveling a long distance without finding it, and as the night was coming on, he thought he would go back for his horse, but it soon was so dark he could neither find his horse or any human habitation; so to make the best of the situation, he cut some bushes and laid them beside a log in the woods for a bed but did not sleep much. He spent the next day in a fruitless search for his horse and mailbag and at night lodged as before. The next morning being hungry, tired and footsore, with no guide but the sun, he concluded to try to find Waupaca, which he knew was in a western direction and across the Wolf river. When he came to the river he plunged in and swam across, but soon found impassable swamps and marshes and was obliged to turn back across the river again; then following down the stream to a place where the banks were high on both sides, he swam across the river again and brought up at Weyauwega as described, but his ambition for carrying the mail was fully satisfied. The horse he rode came round to a settlement some weeks afterward but the mailbag never was found. After these failures Mr. Dreutzer employed a young man by the name of Armstrong, who carried the mail on foot from about the 1st of September ‘50 to the 1st of July ‘52 when the route was discontinued; making regular weekly trips during the whole time without a failure. The distance for the round trip being a little more than 180 miles. Very little mail matter ever went over this route, from the facts that the towns at each end were small and unimportant; that the mails to and from them were uncertain and irregular, that post offices were located in Winnebago county, and nobody ever thought of sending the mail either to Green Bay or Plover to get to Winnebago county. CRITIC --------------- Saturday, April 10, 1886 MR. EDITOR: In your last issue I stated that not much mail matter was carried over the route from Green Bay to Plover, the reason being that nobody thought of sending it through the principal towns in Winnebago County, to the county seat of Brown or Portage county; consequently, papers or letters directed tot he offices on the route, were either returned to the offices where mailed, sent to the Dead Letter office, or lost. The next move was an effort to get a route from Berlin (Strong’s Landing) to Waupaca, which proved successful; and in the latter part of 1850, post offices were established at Lind, Pine River, Poysippi and Willow Creek. The Government furnished mail bags and allowed the proceeds of the offices on the route for carrying the mail: all other expenses were paid by the inhabitants, from the time the offices were established in ‘50 until July ‘52, when mail service commenced by contract with the Government. Early in the year of ‘51, W. C. Carr and Lyman Dayton, both living in the same town and less than two miles apart, each circulated a petition for a post office at his place. Their petitions were sent in the same mail, their letters of inquiry came in the same mail, and their appointments, with a mail bag for each office were received at the same time. The nearest office to them on the mail route was Lind; and each of them for about two years, came regularly every mail day for his supply of mail. The office at Weyauwega during this time was supplied in the same manner, except that instead of a carrier with a horse and buggy and U.S. mail bag, a boy on foot with a carpet bag was employed. Thus we see, that instead of no post offices or mail routes being established in ‘51, we had two mail routes, one running north and south, the other east and west, and ten post offices to accommodate that part of the Indian land detached form Winnebago County to make Waushara and Waupaca Counties, which were organized by the Legislature in March, 1851. CRITIC --------------- Saturday, April 10, 1886: Charles Doty, who lived at Weyauwega in 1853 has been reading some of Bill Waterhouse’s "reminiscences of old times," and says Bill has forgotten to mention one incident. Waterhouse used to be a great fiddler, and on one occasion was sitting gin the door of his dwelling playing the "Devil’s Dream," when a storm came up and lightning struck a tree, and enough of the fluid surrounded William to render him insensible. When he came to himself the boys say he was playing "Old Hundred" in a most effective style. -- CLINTONVILLE TRIBUNE --------------- Saturday, March 2, 1887 While on the train the other morning, we fell in company with a gentleman who was a resident of Weyauwega thirty years ago. Speaking of the place and the election which decided that Waupaca should be the county seat, he said that Waupaca secured the vote by sending women, dressed in men’s clothes, to the polls, who voted in its favor. Brother Patchen you might add the above to your catalogue of crimes committed by the city of sand and potatoes. _________________________________________
History of Waupaca - By J. Wakefield 1890
THE FIRST PAPER - The first paper, The Weyauwegian, was started in July, 185, by William C. Tompkins. It was afterwards The Herald, The Times, which was owned and edited by F. W. Sackett. In March 1877, J. C. Keeney started The Chronicle, which is no successfully edited by A. L. Hutchinson, present District Attorney. VILLAGE OFFICERS - The village officers for 1890 are: President-F. M. Chase,; Trustees-W. H. Weed, Thomas Brett, Charles Goodenow, John Borngesser, L. D. Post, G. Scheel; Clerk-John L. Rhode; Treasurer-Thomas F. Wilson; Police Justice-J. F. Corbett; Marshal-A. W. Balsley; Supervisor-Jerome Crocker; Chief of Fire Department-John Borngresser. ____________________________
June 13, 1895 WEYAUWEGA IS GROWING The neighboring village of Weyauwega is this summer enjoying a boom that resembles in character, if not in extent, that experienced in this city last year. There has been for some years a growing necessity for more dwelling houses, occasioned by a steady increase in population, and this summer the new buildings going up in every part of the town afford the best evidence that the demand will be met. Dr. E. H. Jones is building a 28 x 70-foot, two-story and basement, solid brick block at the corner of Main and Mill street, that will be one of the best in the town, while just north of it, on the same side of Mill street, Crane and Bennett are erecting a frame building to be used as a furniture store. On the south side of Main street, the substantial brick block completed last fall by E. W. Brown and Geo. Haire, and occupied by the former with a stock of general merchandise, is one of the late improvements. Wm. Bauer has greatly improved the appearance of his furniture store by putting in a plate glass front. The Weed & Gumaer Manufacturing Company and Warren Hinchey are putting in an electric light plant, the power house to be located at the south end of the mill company’s dam, on the site of the old paper mill. They will start with a 750 light machine, of the alternating incandescent system, and have a contract with the village for twelve are street lights, which number will probably soon be increased. Warren Hinchey is superintendent of the plant. The best two residences in the city will be those of Andrew Waterson, recently completed, and that of Will Weed, who is at present rebuilding the old Gumaer house on Mill street. The outward appearance of the building will not be much changed, but the interior arrangement will be entirely new. The hall will be furnished in cherry, and the library in soft maple. It is understood that Mr. Weed will expend several thousand dollars on this property. Other dwelling houses, nearly all of the better class, very recently finished, now being built or about to be commenced, are those of E. H. Whitney, Warren Hinchey, P. L. Van Epps, C. H. Goodnow, Fred Gerlock, Chas. Ritzer, Wm. Bublitz, and L. Lange. F. S. Grugg is among the large number who are making improvements upon their residences. It has lately been decided to rebuild the Presbyterian parsonage, which was destroyed by fire a few weeks ago. F. M. Chase is said to be quite enthusiastic over the outlook for the town, and rumor credits him with having in contemplation the building of a number of modern dwelling houses for rental. A. L. Hutchinson has purchased a 29-foot frontage on Main street adjoining Dr. Jones’ brick block, and will build something substantial there this year or next. While the above list of new buildings and improvements is by no means complete, it must be accepted as some evidence of the healthful growth upon which our neighboring village is to be congratulated. One reason for this growth is found in the fact that there is probably not another place of its size in the state that is doing more business than Weyauwega is today. ________________________ December 9, 1898 THE WEYAUWEGA FIRE Waupaca Fire Department Responds Quickly – Lost a Horse. Tuesday evening about 8 o’clock the fire bell rang and many, supposed Waupaca was about to experience her first winter fire, but on reaching Main street it was reported that Weyauwega was on fire and that assistance had been asked from our fire department. Chief Stout conferred hastily with members of the council, who were just about to convene in regular monthly session, and in a few minutes the city blacks were hitched in front of the steamer and started with Engineer Paulson to relieve if possible our neighboring village. Mr. Weed telephoned that he would see that a fresh team would meet us. The fire was reported as starting in Woods’ Hotel, and a message from the Wolf River telephone exchange just as the engine started stated that it was getting hot on that side of the street and the electrician was cutting the wires, preparing to taking the switch board. The Wisconsin phone had already gone up in the burning hotel and as no further communication could be had by the Wolf River-Badger line the inference was that the town was surely burning. On that supposition the cities of Appleton and Oshkosh, who asked by phone from Waupaca in regard to the Weyauwega fire, made up the sensational dispatches for the Associated Press and special papers. The state directory supplied the list of business houses which were supposed to have burned, or would burn if the town were wiped out. In this way Weyauwega got considerable advertising at little expense to the corporation, but every person who had relatives there or a friendly business relation in the town were happy when they heard that only one building instead of the whole town was gone. Mayor Evans and Alderman Hollenbeck started before the engine and when they got to L Harrington’s they arranged with him to hitch his team on ahead of Waupaca’s to help haul the steamer into town. In the meantime Will Rutherford hitched his team onto the hose wagon and took a thousand feet of hose and several volunteer firemen to help man them in case of necessity. They started about thirty minutes later than the engine and arrived in Weyauwega only a few minutes later. Although the fire was kept confined to the building in which it started Weyauwega business men and others were none the less appreciative of the good will expressed by our city in the ready response made to their call for help. There were nearly fifty people from this city present in one hour, ready to lend a helping hand if need be. Weyauwega generously expressed cheers of approval, supplementing the same with warm oyster stews or anything wanted. A warm box stall was provided for the "black beauties" where they were given the best of care, but in the morning when the attendant went to the barn he was shocked to find one of the horses lying down with a leg broken. The poor beast had laid down during the night and its limb accidentally stepped on by its mate. It had to be shot to rid it of its misery. We understand President Crane of Weyauwega has wired out city to purchase another horse and they would pay the bill. It is hardly probable that Waupaca will accept their kind offer. The Chronicle gives the following in regard to the fire: The fire was discovered at about 8:30 o’clock and was then issuing from the west end of the hotel, almost directly under the roof, and probably originated from a defective stovepipe or chimney in the fourth story. A gentle breeze blew from the west and fanned the flames onto the building, and in a very short time it was evident that the hotel was doomed, and the entire village was in danger of suffering a like fate. Tongues of fire and burning embers were carried high into the air and wafted here and there among the sheds and frame structures in the business portion of the village. A few of them found favorable lodgings but were discovered by watchful eyes and the incipient fires were immediately quenched. The firemen were on hand early and in full force. An effort to save the flame-enveloped hotel was abandoned and all rushed in to carry out such valuables as they could lay hands on, and in this way a small portion of the household articles and furnishings was saved. The firemen directed all their energies towards saving Andrew Watterston’s store just across the street and in the direction of the heat and flames. Their pony engine was placed in the gutter, manned by willing hands, and its tank was kept full by a bucket brigade, the water being drawn from a well at some distance. The heat became so intense that it was necessary to shield the men with a screen. The screen was made by a row of men holding saturated carpets between themselves and the fire. Behind this the firemen fought like demons until the walls of the hotel had all fallen in, when a mighty cheer went up and the greatest danger was over. Had Watterston’s store taken fire, the entire village would undoubtedly have suffered a serious conflagration. Many of the residents and business men along the street packed up their valuables and drew them to places of safety. The heat on the Exchange Block, across the street to the north, was moderated by the application of wet cloths from the windows, yet the plate glass and several other panes were cracked. The windows in the Pioneer block were shielded with iron roofing and saved. E. Hennig’s office and blacksmith shop west of the hotel had a very close call, and it still remains a mystery how the hotel barns were saved. Soon after the fire broke out a message was sent to Waupaca and Stevens Point for assistance. Waupaca sent her steamer and 1,000 feet of hose but all danger was over when they arrived. Three cheers were given the Waupacaites on their arrival and all comers were hospitably treated to an oyster supper at the American House. Their good will and promptness is certainly to be commended. Stevens Point also responded promptly but before starting they were given notice that the fire was under control. Woods Hotel was a four story and basement frame building, erected in 1854 by a stock company for the purpose of accommodating the traveling public and as a stopping place for the large number of teamsters who continually went through here with freight from Gills Landing for points west and northwest. The hotel was then managed by a man named Beals. It next became the LaDow House, then the Tarbell House under which name it was managed by various owners until purchased by John Borngesser and known as the Borngesser House, and for the past six years was managed by Wm. Woods as Woods Hotel. Mr. Woods carried an insurance of only $2,000 on the building, and $500 on furnishings. An inventory of the latter footed up to $2,000 last summer, so of course his loss will be considerable. The guests, boarders and waiters saved practically everything they had in their rooms. Mr. And Mrs. Woods are now located in the vacant rooms over Post’s drug store, where they will remain until definite arrangements can be decided upon. ______________________________ Daily Northwestern – Oshkosh, WI – June 19, 1902
WEYAUWEGA OF THE PRESENT The village has had a steady growth since the coming of the Wiscon-sin Central Railroad to its doors in the fall of 1871. It is now a pleasant and well ordered community of about 1,200 people, located on the Soo Railroad, and stretching from the waterpower, over the mill and the electric light plant, a gradual rise of ground toward the south. Its business streets have a number of stores carrying stocks of goods to meet every want of the villagers, its resident thoroughfares are lined with pretty homes, and a memorial gem greets the visitor in the monument erected to the soldiers of 1861-65, most of whom have passed on to the reward of their patriotism. Weyauwega has a public library, an opera house, a good high school, half a dozen churches, and sufficient societies for every want and longing; two solid banks, a flour mill- such industries as the Baldwin Creamery, the Farmers Creamery and Supply Company, the Phillips Dental Burr Company, and an opera house seating 1,000 people, that surpasses anything of the kind in the county, to say nothing of the Allen Lumber Company; a wide awake newspaper, and an Advancement Association, both of which institutions really advance the town. The first good schoolhouse was built in 1858, which was doubled in size about 1870, and this was replaced by a brick one in 1902 at a cost of $20,000. The school includes the usual eight grades and the high school with a total enrollment of 257 pupils. Nine teachers are employed. The principal is E. N. Calef. The school property is now valued at $30,000. AMUSEMENT AND INSTRUCTION The people of Weyauwega, are social, and fond of amusement, and to satisfy their healthful cravings in that regard they have two houses-the old Whitney Opera House and the Gerold Opera House built by George Gerold in 1915 at a cost of over $15,000. The Weyauwega Public Library, which now has nearly 1,500 books on its shelves, was opened in October, 1913. It is managed by a board of five, comprising a member of the village board of trustees, the high school principal, and three private citizens. C. F. Crane has been president since the library was formed and Miss Eunice Fenelon, librarian. The library is contained in the second story of the new Village Hall and is well lighted. It is open to the public three afternoons and one evening each week. T HE VILLAGE HALL In 1914 the village erected a village hall at a cost of over $10,000. The first floor front is occupied by the fire apparatus of the village which comprises an excellent motor power engine, capable of throwing three streams over the highest buildings in town. In the rear is the village lockup, while the upper floors contain the public library in front, and a council room and auditorium in the rear. BANKS The First National Bank was organized in 1905 in a building espe-cially erected for the transaction of its business. R. H. Edwards and E. L. Kosanke served as presidents; H. Koehler, as vice president, and E. M. Proctor, R. W. Johnson and A. L. Kosanke as cashiers. The capital is $25,000, surplus and undivided profits (fall of 1916) $4,600, and deposits about $225,000. The Farmers and Merchants Bank opened for business in April, 1910, and succeeded to the business of the Weed & Gumaer Company. Its capital is $30,000. E. H. Jones has been president and T. F. Wilson cashier since it was organized. Its vice presidents have been W. W. Crane, Ben Wiener and L. D. Post. The average deposits of the bank are $230,000. It has undivided profits of $7,000. It occupies the Bank Building erected by the Weed and Gumaer Company in 1903. THE WEYAUWEGA ADVANCEMENT ASSOCIATION It is always considered good literary form to close with some strong and agreeable feature and the Weyauwega Advancement Association concluded this chapter. It was organized in June, 1915, with Dr. E. H. Jones as president; A. J. Rieck, editor of the Chronicle, secretary, and H. W. Glocke, treasurer. Its membership of over 100 includes the best and most enterprising men of the community. The association encourages everything which can legitimately attract people and business to Weyauwega. It has always done much in the encouragement of the good roads movement and has stood behind the actual construction of several miles of fine roads tributary to the village. THE WAUPACA COUNTY FAIR And in this connection we want to say a word about the Waupaca County Agricultural Association whose fair grounds are at Weyauwega and which holds a four days' fair each year. The association was organized nearly fifty years ago and for several years barely existed. Then a change of secretaries was made, and new life enthused into the project and for the past twenty years it has been one of the leading county fairs in the state. It has some very fine grounds and a half mile track with a record of 2.17. The fair of 1916 was one of the most successful in its history and the pay roll of the association for premiums and expenses was over $10,000. Questions, suggestions or additions please email. Return to Cities Page Return to homepage
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