Sauk County Historical Society Newsletters 2004 - 2008

Old Sauk Trails

Van Orden Mansion 1903–2004

The Newsletter Of The Sauk County Historical Society

Van Orden Mansion Turns 100

On March 24, 1904 the Sauk County Democrat calmly stated, “J. Van Orden and family are now occupying their new residence on Fourth Avenue.” This rather mundane statement marked the end of a nearly two-year process to create a stylish and up-todate residence for the family.

The Van Ordens had lived on the site since 1880, but by the turn of the century their earlier house was too small and out of date. Actually, the Van Ordens had the old home extensively redecorated in 1899, but with the new houses the Ringlings were building, the old home just would not do. So in the spring of 1902 the old Van Orden house was sold and moved away and preparations began for a new mansion.

The Van Ordens stayed in the neighborhood by moving across the street to the vacant Henry Rich house. From here they could keep tabs on the construction process and stay close to the matriarch of the family, Jane Van Orden, who lived in the cottage next to the building site.

The prestigious firm of Ferry and Clas of Milwaukee, with partner Alfred Clas a Sauk County native, drew the plans for the mansion. Clas seems likely to be the driving force behind the design as he reportedly came to Baraboo to stake out the grounds for the new residence in October 1902 and checked on progress in May 1903 with an on-site visit.

By the time it was done the mansion boasted everything modern and stylish. The exterior was a sophisticated blend of Tudor Revival, Craftsmen and even Colonial details while the inside boasted the lavish use of woodwork, different wall treatments and the latest technology. Plumbing amenities included three and half bathrooms as well as private bedroom sinks, a kitchen sink and a laundry room. Lighting included gas and electric fixtures while the house was heated with the latest hot water system. The house was also spacious including five bedrooms and a third-floor ballroom.

The new house hosted many memorable occasions including the Van Ordens 25th anniversary ball in 1905, a musical concert for 150 guests in 1907 and the wedding reception of daughter, Mary Louise, in 1909. By 1938 the final owner, Florence Van Orden, recently widowed, found the home too large and sold it to the Sauk County Historical Society. Now 100 years later the house remains largely unchanged having been a museum nearly twice as long as it was ever a residence. The Society will host a number of events this year to celebrate the mansion including a centennial house warming party March 20, 2004.

Van Orden House Warming March 20

The Sauk County Historical Society will host a house warming party March 20, 2004 at 6:30 p.m., at the Sauk County Historical Museum to commemorate the centennial of the Van Orden mansion, home of the Museum. When the Van Orden mansion was finished 100 years ago the family moved in with relatively little fan fare. The centennial, however, will be marked with a little more celebration.

The reception begins at 6:30 p.m. with live orchestral music and refreshments followed by a presentation of life in 1904. Viewing Van Orden family films from the 1920s and ‘30s will highlight the evening. Van Orden family memorabilia will also be displayed. The event will kick off this year’s events, many of which will highlight the mansion’s centennial. ✒

Pabst Mansion Bus Tour April 3

To celebrate the Van Orden mansion centennial and learn more about the Ferry and Clas architectural firm of Milwaukee, Wis., the Sauk County Historical Society will host a coach-bus tour to the Pabst mansion in Milwaukee, Wis., April 3, 2004. In 1892, ten years before the Van Ordens considered building a

new house in Baraboo, the family of Captain Fredrick Pabst in Milwaukee, Wis., moved into their new mansion. The newly formed architectural firm of George Ferry and Alfred Clas designed the Flemish Revival-style edifice, which included the finest of everything. In 1902 Ferry and Clas were hired to design the Van Orden mansion and bring some big-city sophistication to Baraboo.

Pabst historian John Eastberg will lead an in-depth mansion tour. An exhibit on Ferry and Clas will also be on display at the mansion showing original building renderings from the firm. On the return trip a quick bus tour of Lake Mills, Wis., will also highlight some other Ferry and Clas works including a sister house to the Van Orden mansion also built in 1903.

The bus will leave the Sauk County Historical Museum at 9 a.m. on April 3, 2004 and return about 5 p.m. Box lunches will be served on the bus. The cost per person is $30 for members, which includes bus fare, lunch and admission to the Pabst mansion. The price for non-members is $35. Make your reservation by calling the Museum at 608-356-1001.

Thank You Bank of Prairie du Sac

A special highlight at the Sauk County Historical Society’s Victorian Christmas open house Dec. 13, 2003 was a gift of $750.00 from the Bank of Prairie du Sac, Prairie du Sac, Wis. Patricia Yanke, bank vice president, arrived at the event fully dressed in resplendent and highly authentic late Victorian costume. Accompanying Yanke was her husband and two friends, all of them equally dressed in the most elegant period attire. “Their dress really made the event, and the bank’s gift was unexpected,” said Society Executive Director Peter Shrake. The Bank of Prairie du Sac has been a generous supporter of the Society for two years in a row. The Society extends its thanks to Patricia Yanke and the Bank of Prairie du Sac for their help in preserving our area’s heritage. ✒

Thank You Village of Lake

Delton And Town of Delton

by Peter Shrake, executive director

To continue the Sauk County Historical Society’s mission to preserve Sauk County history, the Society needs everyone’s help. Throughout 2003 staff and board members have made numerous presentations to town and village boards across the county in an effort to generate support for the Society. In January, as a result of these visits, the Society received contributions of $250.00 from the town of Delton and $1,000.00 from the village of Lake Delton!

Another direct result of these visits has been significant additions to the Society’s archival collections. Last November the town of Baraboo gifted the Society a large collection of its oldest records. Among these records are important documents relating to constructing Werner Memorial Road and the health records from 1920s.

Town and village boards are not the only local officials that have helped the Society. The Sauk County Board of Supervisors has also been generous. Every year it grants an appropriation to the Society; this year it contributed $8,000.00. As a private nonprofit organization these local government units are not required by any law or regulation to contribute to the Society. That they do so is a testament to the people who comprise our local governments.

The Society succeeds in its mission only because of people’s generosity. The vast and growing collections are entirely the result of generations of donations like those of the town of Baraboo. The care, maintenance and interpretation of those collections are made possible by financial contributions such as those of

Pabst mansion, Milwaukee, Wis., 1890–1892, Architects: Ferry and Clas.

Society Executive Director Peter Shrake receives the Bank of Prairie du Sac’s donation to the Society at the Society’s 2003 Victorian Christmas open house. See article left for details.

the Village of Lake Delton, the town of Delton and Sauk County. To these boards the Society extends its most heartfelt thanks. Their actions are not taken for granted and are gratefully appreciated. Thank you.

4th Annual Canfield Day April 16

The Sauk County Historical Society will celebrate the fourth annual William H. Canfield Day on April 16, 2004 at 7 p.m. at the Sauk County Historical Museum. Due to the Easter holiday, the event, which is usually held on Canfield’s birthday (April 9), will be held one week later. This year guests at the Museum will learn about Canfield’s religious persuasions and writings, another interesting facet of a complex figure. The William H. Canfield History Award will also be given during the evening to honor the work of another Sauk County historian who displays the same passion for local history as Canfield. Refreshments will round out the evening. ✒

Nominees Needed For Canfield History Award

The Sauk County Historical Society will award its third William H. Canfield History Award on April 16, 2004 to honor the memory of Sauk County’s earliest historian by acknowledging an individual who has made an abiding commitment to local history and whose efforts are reflected in a body of work or certain contributions. The Society will accept nominations until March 31, 2004. ✒

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

What is in a name? The Sauk County Historical Society has a pretty straight-forward name; however, its meaning and scope have changed over the years. Nearly 100 years ago the Society was formed to collect, study and preserve history. Often that meant any historical artifact someone wanted to donate whether it related to Sauk County, making it more-orless a historical society in Sauk County. More recently, however, your Society has become the Sauk County Historical Society, emphasis on Sauk County.

While being geographically located in Baraboo the Society has determined to become more active countywide. This has meant new board members from different parts of the county and efforts to reach all communities with outreach and services. It has also meant broadening the Society’s base of support and finding new partners.

I would like to thank all those who have helped the Society recently including the village of Lake Delton, the town of Delton and the Bank of Prairie du Sac. These new partners have challenged us to reach all the communities in Sauk County. Their support, added to the Society’s ongoing supporters, is making the Society a stronger and more far-reaching society helping it to truly live up to its name. While the Society has a long way to go, progress is occurring. Membership continues to grow including many people from around the county and out of the county.

Deadline: March 31, 2004. Submit to: Sauk County Historical Society • PO BOX 651 • Baraboo WI 53913

Submitter’s name__________________________________________Telephone#_______________________

Address____________________________________________________________________________________

E-mail address_________________________________

Nominee’s name___________________________________________Telephone#_______________________

Address____________________________________________________________________________________

E-mail address_________________________________

On a separate piece of paper, please complete the following paragraph in 500 words or less:

I nominate _________, who, like William H. Canfield, shows a passion for local history as shown by his/her/its…

The artifact collections are added to weekly and the Society holds the largest archival and photographic collections related to the county, which people from around the world, often through the Society’s Web site www.saukcounty.com/schs, are accessing. As the Society starts its 99th year as a society, thank you everyone for your continued support. ✒

Record Attendance At Christmas Open House

by Peter Shrake, executive director

The Sauk County Historical Society hosted its fourth annual Victorian Christmas open house Dec. 13, 2003. A record 403 people visited the Sauk County Historical Museum that day! That the event was a success was entirely due to the many sponsors and volunteers who contributed time, material or funding.

The Society thanks the Bank of Prairie du Sac of Prairie du Sac, for generously supporting this event, and the Baraboo National Bank for sponsoring part of the carriage ride costs. Carol Sorg of Baraboo donated Christmas trees, which were beautifully adorned thanks to Amber Moon and Garden Relish of Baraboo, Crazy Daisy of Lake Delton and Silhouettes Gifts of Reedsburg. Several Society members led by Society President Paul Wolter beautifully decorated nine Christmas trees and each room of the Museum with stunning decorations.

The live music at the open house included the talents of many wonderful local musicians including Gail Bird, Inger Clemens and her daughters Eva and Lisa, Paul Vaillancourt, Dave Saloutos, Mona Larsen, Paul Wolter, Mark Stelling, Brad Wilson, Mark Reitz, Jean Powell, Audrey Christopherson and others.

Also contributing to the success were the many excellent bakers who donated cookies and treats for the buffet table. Thank you Pam and Ralph Krainik for letting us use your punch bowl, and trays and

plates for serving the cookies, and Donna Lange for coordinating and managing the buffet table.

Many members and friends helped host the event. Thank you to all who greeted guests at the door, kept the buffet table well stocked, helped with the carriage rides, oversaw the second floor and sold raffle tickets.

As with every year the Society always tries something a little different. This year the Society constructed two gingerbread replicas of the Van Orden mansion. One mansion was a candy-land version of our venerable old house and the other was a detailed replica. Thank you to Salecker’s Baker’s Dozen Bakery of Baraboo, for donating gingerbread and talent to make the wonderful gingerbread houses.

The Society also had a raffle for the first time. A number of items including the candy Van Orden mansion, a handmade Christmas table runner donated by Kathy Shrake, and a Christmas print reproduced from the Society’s collections were offered as prizes. Jean Smith spent much of the evening managing the raffle ticket sales. The Society thanks all who bought tickets.

Ciara Burgi won the candy gingerbread house, Grace Haslanger won the table runner and Gary

Smith won the framed Christmas print. All the winners are from Baraboo, although guests came from throughout Sauk County and surrounding counties.

The Society especially thanks everyone who attended. Your enthusiasm and support for the Society makes all the planning and work worthwhile. ✒

Old Sauk Trails • February 2004

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails quarterly. Editor: Nichelle Martin.

The Society maintains the Sauk County Historical Museum , a three-story, 14-room mansion and repository of local history. Open year-round, Tuesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.

Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO BOX 651• Baraboo WI 53913

Tele: 608-356-1001 • E-mail: history@saukcounty.com

Web site: www.saukcounty.com/schs

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

Society’s Light Parade Float

The Sauk County Historical Society entered a float in the 2003 Downtown Baraboo Holly Jolly Light Parade in November. Senger Lumber donated the use of a large, flatbed truck and a heated shop. Volunteers built the float displaying an old-fashioned steam engine and passenger car on their way to Big Rock Candy Mountain. The float won the award for best use of lights. ✒

Reedsburg Society News

by Lavern Kruse, Loganville?, Wis.

The Reedsburg Area Historical Society reflects on its 2003 activities, beginning with its annual meeting in April. Then the Society entertained over 500 school children, and served 1,150 hungry people during the annual chicken barbecue, both in May. A Classic Truck group toured the Pioneer Log Village and Museum grounds during the summer, arriving in 70 vintage vehicles. Several family reunions occurred on the grounds, and there was a wedding in the church in September. Including visitors from the area and various parts of the country, the Society also hosted visitors from Canada and France. Over 3,500 visitors toured the Log Village last season.

The 2004 season will also be an exciting one. The Reedsburg Society will again welcome visiting school children in May, and hold its annual meeting May 21, 2004 at 7:30 p.m. at the Reedsburg Recreational Center. The public is welcome. This year’s chicken barbecue will be on May 30, on the Society grounds, the Pioneer Log Village, east of Reedsburg. On July 4,

2004, the Reedsburg Society will dedicate a recently reconstructed log building along with a special flag. Volunteers are always welcome to help greet guests on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, 1–4 p.m., July 29 through Oct. 30, when the Pioneer Log Village and Museum is open to the public. The Society is also looking for new members. If you or someone you know would like to join the Reedsburg Area Historical Society, please send your request to: Reedsburg Area Historical Society, Box 405, Reedsburg WI 53959, or call 608-524-3419 or 608-727-2922. Memberships are $3 individual or $7 for a couple. ✒

Reedsburg Postcard Book Available

The Sauk County Historical Society announces its publication of Reedsburg In Vintage Postcards, by Arcadia Publishing Co. The 128-page book contains postcard views from Reedsburg resident Phyllis Miller’s collection. It is available at the Sauk County Historical Museum and Raven House Gifts in Baraboo, and Reedsburg Office Supply, the Voyageur Inn and the Antique Mall in Reedsburg, for $20.00.

Electronic Newsletter Considered

Would you like to receive Old Sauk Trails, the Sauk County Historical Society’s newsletter, in an electronic format? The Society is considering sending the newsletter via e-mail instead of through postal mail, to interested members. This would reduce printing and postage costs, and lessen your paper clutter and storage, if you like to keep back issues. The newsletter would look the same as the one you currently receive and you could print it from any computer and printer. It would be sent as a PDF file. You would only need Adobe Acrobat Reader software, which is a free program you can download from Adobe’s Web site, to open the document.

If you are interested, please send the Society an email message at history@saukcounty.com. If there is enough interest, the Society will try sending the next newsletter electronically to those who request it. ✒

From left to right are Ralph Krainik, Mona Larsen, Paul Wolter, Pam Krainik, Someone?, and Dave Something? of Senger Lumber who were among those who helped create the Society’s float for the 2003 Holly Jolly Light Parade.

Images From The Past: LaRue

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

The village of LaRue, located in central Freedom township on Highway PF, emerged rather late in the history of Sauk County settlements. William LaRue, who came from Minnesota in 1889, founded it. The Illinois Steel Company sent him to establish a quartzite mine in Rock Springs. Hearing that other companies were attempting to mine iron near North Freedom without much success, LaRue pursued this interest for the next 10 years.

With the advent of the diamond-tipped drill, it became evident the quest for iron ore was once again a reality. LaRue extensively explored the area in 1900 and located quality ore at 40 feet, with 53 percent iron content. Early pioneers had discovered ore near the surface as early as 1850, and attempts to smelt it in 1880 proved futile.

LaRue teamed with a venture capitalist and area residents, and sold leases to land that his company platted in 1903. That area became known as LaRue, and a village was born.

Anticipating the lucrative need to transport the raw ore to market, in 1898 the Chicago-Northwestern Railroad built a spur line into the site. Almost over night LaRue became a boomtown with three operating mines nearby: the Illinois employing 150 men, the Iroquois employing 75 men, and the Sauk. Mine shafts were sunk 400 feet into the damp soil to bring up the ore. At the time, 500 people called the little village home.

LaRue continued to grow with the influx of miners and boasted two taverns, a general store, a hotel, a lumberyard, an elementary school and a church. Also built were crude houses for the workers, many of who were Swedes and Norwegians, imported from Minnesota.

Peter Rettgen, a surviving mine worker, was interviewed by the Capital Times in 1971 and was 81 at the time. He recalled what Saturday nights (payday) were like at the local pubs. “It was pretty bad,” he recalled, “A lot of the fellows would place their whole

paycheck on the bar right away. Then they’d leave it there and drink all night. And then of course there were

fights. The Swedes and Norwegians really hated each other and with a little under the belt it really got rough.”

The glory days were not to last and water was the primary culprit of their demise; 13 pumps pulled over 4,000 gallons a minute out of the soggy mines. The ore quality also declined and in 1914, U.S. Steel pulled the plug.

But LaRue’s place in history was not quite over. In 1917, a quartzite mine opened south of the hamlet, providing rock for firebrick to line the blast furnaces of steel mills in Chicago and Indiana. The mine operated until the late 1950s when better rock was found in Ohio. The last shipment left the area in 1957.

Today, the village of LaRue consists of a tavern and dance hall, and many memories of what might have been. ✒

Far left: LaRue Tavern, still exists. Center: another tavern, and far right the LaRue General Store, both are gone. Photo courtesy of Mrs. Evie Lunzman from Don Ginter’s collection.

Welcome New and Renewed Members

The following are new Sauk County Historical Society members or members who have renewed since November 2003.

H. E. COLE CLUB $5,000+

Sally Clayton Jones, Baraboo, Wis.

Sauk County Arts, Humanities and Historic Preservation Committee, Sauk County Board of Supervisors

VAN ORDEN CIRCLE $1,000–$2,499

Village of Lake Delton

BENEFACTOR $500

Bank of Prairie du Sac, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

PATRON $250

Pedro and Nancy Kuczynski, Rock Springs, Wis.

Kathy Shrake, Lakewood, Wis.

Carol Sorg, Baraboo, Wis.

Town of Delton

SPONSOR $100

Tana Holmblad, Reedsburg, Wis.

Bill and Deb Johnsen, Baraboo Wis.

Gary Kowalke, Baraboo, Wis.

Mona and Gene Larsen, Baraboo, Wis.

Jeff Sorg, Kalispell, Mont.

Bev Vaillancourt, LaValle, Wis.

SUPPORTING $50

Don and Dirk Topham, Baraboo Wis.

Todd and Mary Hultman, Baraboo Wis.

Bernard and Roberta Hotzel, Baraboo Wis.

Patricia Baade, Baraboo Wis.

Bruce Ley, Baraboo Wis.

Jim and Linda Damos, Merrimac Wis.

FRIEND $35

Frederic Behn, Rock Springs, Wis.

Ann and John Burton, Baraboo, Wis.

Jeanette Wanless Jessop, LaValle, Wis.

Annie Randall, Baraboo, Wis.

Barbara Smith, Baraboo, Wis.

Lucus and Nadia Van Orden, Iowa City, Iowa

Wayne and Geraldine Wolter, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

COUPLE $25

Donald Aucutt and John Henley, Sauk City, Wis.

Lawrence and Patricia Bittermann, Batavia, Ill.

Thomas and Jacqueline Bladl, Fond du Lac, Wis.

Jim and Rachel Bovenmyer, Boscobel, Wis.

Robert and Joyce Breen, Hartford, Wis.

Donald and Wilma Cook, Emporia, Kan.

Francis and Joan Costerisan, Hendersonville, N.C.

Cyril and Mary Dickeman, Reedsburg, Wis.

Karen and Howard Diehl, Spring Green, Wis.

Al and Lola DuBois, Baraboo, Wis.

Rick and Yenti Eilertson, Baraboo, Wis.

Virgil, Cheryl and Vi Erlandson, Baraboo, Wis.

David and Jeanne Fuhs, Baraboo, Wis.

Ken and Mary Grant, Baraboo, Wis.

Richard and Kitty Hause, Baraboo, Wis.

Harold and Audrey Hein, Baraboo, Wis.

Lawrence and Lola Huber, North Freedom, Wis.

Richard and Linda Jenks, Baraboo, Wis.

Jerry and Alice Kindschi, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Greta Koenig, Wisconsin Dells Baraboo, Wis.

Gordon and Lois Krunnfusz, Baraboo, Wis.

Chris and Cathy Roser, Rose Creek, Minn.

Allan and Nancy Schmid, Baraboo, Wis.

Walter and Yvonne Smith, Baraboo, Wis.

John and Dorothy Sorg, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Neil and Lucille Thompson, Baraboo, Wis.

Michael and Kathleen Tomaw, Baraboo, Wis.

Mark Tully and Karen Sorkness, Baraboo, Wis.

Ross Walker and Erwin Uecker, Milwaukee, Wis.

S

S S S S

AUK C C C C C OUNTY OUNTY H H H H ISTORICAL S S S OCIETY OCIETY M M M EMBERSHIP

AUK

To join the Sauk County Historical Society, give a gift membership or renew your membership, send a check for the level you desire along with the member’s name, address and telephone number to the Society at PO BOX 651, Baraboo WI 53913-0651.

Individual $15,Couple $25,Friend $35, Supporting $50,Sponsor $100,Patron $250 +, Benefactor $500+

Membership includes a subscription to this quarterly newsletter, free admission to the Sauk County Historical Museum and access to historical archives, membership meetings and events, and an affiliate membership to the Wisconsin Historical Society with its benefits. Annual dues support all aspects of executing the Society’s mission.

William Welk, Baraboo, Wis.

Harry and Leah Wolcott, Baraboo, Wis.

Ralph and Carol Zahnow, Middleton, Wis.

INDIVIDUAL $15

Ronald Bauer, Reedsburg, Wis.

Lynda Baymiller, Baraboo, Wis.

Pat Buck, Sarasota, Fla.

Donald Cole, Deforest, Wis.

Christine Dwyer, Baraboo, Wis.

Jean Grotophorst, Huntsville, Ala.

Annette Halbach, Baraboo, Wis.

Roger Hanko, Baraboo, Wis.

Beatrice Harding, Baraboo, Wis.

Dave Hofer, West Salem, Wis .

Susan Jenks, Baraboo, Wis.

Pam Karg, Baraboo, Wis.

John Keller, Sandy, Utah

Bob Kieffer Jr., Baraboo, Wis.

Andre Krainik, Ann Arbor, Mich.

Kathy LaMasney, Baraboo, Wis.

Joyce Michel, Reedsburg Wis.

Ronald Moon, Caledonia, Ill.

Sue Nibeck, Hinsdale, Ill.

Jack Pittman, Atlantic, Iowa

Kathryn Schauf, Baraboo, Wis.

Gail Schronce, Lake Delton, Wis.

Alan Scoles, Witchita, Kan.

Theodore Shepard, Otis Orchards, Wash.

Kathy Steckelberg, Arlington, Va.

Beverly Vareka, Two Rivers, Wis.

Barbara Vester, Los Angeles, Calif.

Kelly Wenzlow, Baraboo, Wis.

Burt Wright, Los Angeles, Calif.

Membership Renewal

The Sauk County Historical Society mails members renewal notices 30 days before memberships expire. If your membership is not renewed within 30 days of its expiration date the Society will remove you from the current mailing list. Watch for your renewal notice in the mail and please return it promptly. Thank you for your continued support. ✒

Upcoming Events

Saturday, March 20, 6:30 p.m.— Van Orden

Mansion House Warming Party & Centennial Celebration, at the Sauk County Historical Museum. Program and refreshments. The public is welcome.

Saturday, April 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—Pabst Mansion coach-bus tour, Milwaukee, Wis., $30 members, $35 non-members. Call the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001 to reserve.

Friday, April 16, 7 p.m.—The Fourth Annual William Canfield Day Celebration at the Sauk County Historical Museum. William H. Canfield History Award presentation, program and refreshments. The public is welcome.

Friday, May 21, 7:30 p.m.—Reedsburg Area Historical Society Annual Meeting at the Reedsburg Recreational Center. The public is welcome.

May 2004

Old Sauk Trails

Van Orden Mansion 1904–2004

The Newsletter Of The Sauk County Historical Society

Circus Parade And Festival Returns, Volunteers Needed

The city of Baraboo will be teeming with activity the weekend of July 1–4 as the Great Circus Parade and Festival comes to town for the first time in 20 years. The Sauk County Historical Society is pleased to announce it will have an exhibit of historical displays and merchandise sales on the Circus World Museum grounds that weekend. The Society needs your help! Volunteers are needed to staff the exhibit all weekend. Please consider volunteering some time, even just an hour. If you are interested in helping call executive director Pete Shrake at the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001. ✒

2004 Parade of Historic Homes

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

Before the Great Circus Parade and Festival returns to Baraboo, Wis., after 20 years, another parade will trek through town on June 19, 2004 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. At the 2004 Parade of Historic Homes, however, the spectators are the ones who will walk as they tour seven historic homes in Baraboo. This year’s tour includes six private homes and the Van Orden mansion, home of the Sauk County Historical Museum, which turned 100. The homes cover 70 years of style in Baraboo and include:

✗ Seven Gables, a Gothic Revival masterpiece from 1860

✗ Cranberry Cottage, remodeled about 1885 with a Mansard roof

✗ Van Orden mansion, a Tudor Revival finished in 1904

✗ Gollmar home, mail-ordered from Sears and Roebuck in 1917

✗ Philbrick residence, built by an early Ford dealer in 1923

✗ Jacobs house, a 1926 Prairie School house

You can purchase parade tickets in advance for $8 at area banks, Cornerstone Gallery, Baraboo Visitors Center and the Sauk County Historical Museum. For information call the Museum at 608-356-1001.

Summer Course For Kids At Museum

The University of Wisconsin Baraboo/Sauk County and the Sauk County Historical Society are teaming to offer a new five-day summer course for children in grades fourth and fifth called Kids In The Museum: Creative Collections, at the Sauk County Historical Museum June 21–25, 2004. The course will bring young collectors behind the scenes at the Museum to learn how museums work, the role they play in the community, the jobs and skills needed to work within a museum, and museum techniques like categorizing and exhibiting.

Students will put their new knowledge to work by researching, cataloging and displaying their collections, and sharing their interests with others. Their work and exhibits will be displayed at the Baraboo Public Library.

Registration and a fee are required. To register or for information call Becky Hovde at U.W.-Baraboo at 608-356-8351 ext. 234.

Summer Picnic Aug. 5

2004 is a year of celebration as the Jacob Van Orden mansion, home of the Sauk County Historical Museum, turns 100 years old. In honor of the centennial, the Sauk County Historical Society’s annual summer picnic will be held at the Museum at 531 Fourth Avenue, Baraboo, Wis. It has been nearly four years since the picnic was held at the Museum. Due to the late date of the Parade of Historic Homes, the picnic will be held Aug. 5, 2004. Members will receive a mailing in July with more information. ✒

✗ Isenberg house, a 1930 Tudor Revival cottagestyle

Michael Goc, center, recently received an Award of Merit from the State Historical Society of Wisconsin (SHSW) for his book, Powder, People and Place, a history of Badger Ordnance Works. Left is SHSW Director Bob Thomasgard, and right is Patricia A. Boge, president of the SHSW board of curators. The Badger History Group nominated Goc for the award. ✒

Phyllis Dearborn Receives 2004 Canfield Award

by Peter Shrake, executive director

The Sauk County Historical Society’s Fourth Annual William H. Canfield Day celebration April 16, 2004 at the Society’s historic Jacob Van Orden mansion in Baraboo, Wis., welcomed about 25 people to enjoy one of the season’s first warm evenings.

Every year the Society marks the event with a lecture detailing some aspect of Canfield’s life, one of Sauk County’s most prolific and earliest historians, and presents its annual Canfield history award. Canfield was a man of broad interests, among them religion. Dr. Virgil Erlandson, a dentist in Baraboo and a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, which Canfield helped found, shared in an excellent presentation of insights to Canfield’s character as illustrated by his writings as church secretary and through his journals and religious-pamphlet writings.

Society Executive Director Peter Shrake and Vice President Beverly Vaillancourt presented this year’s William H. Canfield Award to Phyllis Dearborn of Sauk City, Wis. The award recognizes outstanding efforts in writing about or preserving Sauk County’s past. Past award recipients include Erhart Mueller and Ken Lange. Mrs. Dearborn received the 2004 award for her book The Ghost Village of White Mound and Its Surrounding Area Billytown, published in 2003.

Many people are familiar with White Mound Park, but many do not realize that at one time a small but busy town stood just down the road. Dearborn grew up on a farm that contained the ruins of the site of White Mound and her family still owns the site. Her book began as a few pages written as a Christmas present to her family. That brief outline piqued her curiosity and she went on to do in-depth research that resulted in her published book. She also spearheaded an effort to erect a historical marker on the site of the now vanished village. Dearborn’s book is for sale from the Society, call 608-356-1001. ✒

Thank You Interns

by Peter Shrake, executive director

Since January the Sauk County Historical Society has been fortunate to work with three interns from the University of Wisconsin-Baraboo/Sauk County.

Chelsea Wickersham, Darren Schuette and Chris Pheiffer have made significant progress on a number of Sauk County Historical Museum projects. Thanks to them, the Society’s school archive collection is

Old Sauk Trails • May 2004

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails quarterly. Editor: Nichelle Martin.

The Society maintains the Sauk County Historical Museum , a three-story, 14-room mansion and repository of local history. Open year-round, Tuesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.

Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO BOX 651• Baraboo WI 53913

Tele: 608-356-1001 • E-mail: history@saukcounty.com

Web site: www.saukcounty.com/schs

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

L–R: Sauk County Historical Society Vice President Beverly Vaillancourt presents Phyllis Dearborn with the 2004 William H. Canfield Award.

completely organized and cataloged with all the data entered onto the computer. Hundreds of books have also been properly cataloged. In addition to all of this, the interns helped reconstruct the pioneer exhibit on the Museum’s second floor.

The Society thanks the interns for their hard work and wishes them well in all their future endeavors. The Society also extends a special word of gratitude to Dr. Mike Jacobs, history professor at the U.W. Dr. Jacobs selects the interns who work here every year and coordinates the internship program. ✒

Van Orden Mansion Centennial Marked

On March 20, 2004, the Sauk County Historical Society’s Jacob Van Orden mansion officially turned 100 and Lucas Schuyler Van Orden IV helped commemorate and kickoff the centennial year. An open house marked the milestone, which started with live string music followed by a presentation on life in Baraboo, Wis., in 1904. Then Lucas shared family films that showed glimpses of daily life around the mansion. Comments from some of the audience members helped identify some of the people on the films. Van Orden also spoke to the audience of about 50 after viewing the films expressing appreciation for how the Society has kept the house in tact. Refreshments were served after the evening’s events. ✒

Pabst Mansion Delights All

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

On a crisp day in early April a group of about 20 Sauk County Historical Society members and friends boarded a coach bus for Milwaukee, Wis., to explore the Pabst mansion and learn more about the Ferry and Clas architectural firm. The tour started with a short stop at the Milwaukee Public Library, which the firm designed in 1895, then it was on to the main attraction. At the Pabst mansion, John Eastberg, director of

development and chief historian, lead the group on an enthralling tour of the residential masterpiece. From the lavish woodwork to the three-story high open staircase lit by a stained-glass skylight, the house truly spoke of the grandeur that once was. The tour concluded with a slide review of mansions of Grand Avenue, Milwaukee, Wis., the one-time companions of the Pabst mansion that were lost to the wrecking ball. On the return home to Baraboo the group took a quick driving tour of Lake Mills, Wis., to see the Fargo Library, designed by Ferry and Clas, and the Greenwood home that was built the same year as the Van Orden mansion, also for a small-town banker.

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

It will be another incredible summer for your Sauk County Historical Society as it gears up for a number of events. First is the Parade of Historic Homes on June 19, 2004, the sixth such tour in

L-R: Lucas Schuyler Van Orden V, his father, Lucas Schuyler Van Orden IV, and Sauk County Historical Society Executive Director Peter Shrake.

Pabst mansion tour group, April 3, 2004.

Baraboo, Wis. The parades have features over 30 houses in the past and this year the parade will showcase six more. Shortly after this parade another more traditional parade will roll through Baraboo on July 3, 2004, the Great Circus Parade. The Society will have a presence at the Circus World Museum grounds for the four-day Great Circus Parade and Festival starting July 1.

Things will quiet down for about three weeks until Old Fashioned Day in Baraboo where the Society will have its annual exhibit. The Society will hold its summer picnic at the Van Orden mansion on Aug. 5, 2004 to help commemorate the home’s centennial. Then in mid-August the Society will have its annual display at the Badger Steam and Gas Show for three days. If you would like to help with any of these events please call Peter Shrake or Mary Farrell-Stieve at the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-3561001. By doing so you will help promote your Society, meet other members and hopefully draft some new ones too.

Living History School Project

by Peter Shrake, executive director

Education is an important component of serious historic preservation efforts. If the general public does not have an appreciation for the past it is almost impossible to enlist its support for saving it. Recognizing the importance of educational programs, the Sauk County Historical Society has for several years been improving and expanding the services offered to area schools.

Last year with the aid of a grant from the Sauk County Arts, Humanities and Historic Preservation Committee, the Society built a traveling school program called Living History. The program is offered to all area schools, public and private, free of charge. In the program volunteers interact with students who learn about the past through hands-on activities.

University of Wisconsin-Baraboo/Sauk County interns helped build five stations that focus on period clothing, toys, butter making, writing with a quill pen and quilting. Interpretive backdrops were built and reproduction artifacts were either made or purchased.

In 2003 the program was presented for the first time at East Elementary School in Baraboo, Wis. It was a success! On May 7, 2004, the Society delivered the program at two schools, Reedsburg Sacred Heart Elementary and Ironton-LaValle Elementary in

LaValle, Wis. As in 2003, this year’s programs were also a great success. The Society received high compliments from teachers and students alike. This is still a developing program; next year the Society hopes to add to the existing five stations and make the program flexible. The Living History school program is designed to engage the imagination of our county’s youth. With their interest in the past we help ensure our history will be saved into the future. ✒

Upcoming Events

Saturday, June 19, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.— Parade of Historic Homes in Baraboo

June 21–25—Summer course for fourth and fifth graders, Kids In The Museum: Creative Collections

July 1–4—The Great Circus Parade and Festival, July 3: parade, in Baraboo

Thursday, August 5—Annual Summer Picnic

REEDSBURG

300 Alexander Ave. Reedsburg WI 53959 608-524-4386

web site http://matcmadison.edu/reedsburg/

Students practice writing with a quill pen.

Images From The Past: Plain

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

Founded with the name of Cramer’s Corners after the first families who arrived in 1848, and later known as Log Town, the village of Plain took its current name from the Shrine of the Virgin of Maria Plain in southern Germany when it incorporated in 1912. Many of the early settlers originated from that region of Germany and brought their Catholic faith with them. Fr. Maximillian Gartner founded St. Luke’s Catholic Church in 1861, and a frame church was built in 1865.

A small frame building was built on the church grounds and used as a parochial school in 1876. Students sat on roughly hewn benches and everyone shared a few common books. Religion and the German language were the first subjects taught.

Due to an increasing membership, a new stone sanctuary was built in 1888. The third church, a large brick structure, was built in 1903 but a tornado leveled it in 1918. A new combination church and school was built on a hill overlooking the village in 1920 replacing the destroyed sanctuary. Again having outgrown the old structure, a beautiful stone edifice was constructed beside the old church in 1940.

Alfred, Linus and Norman Kraemer founded one of the largest construction companies in the county in 1848 known as Kraemer Brothers Construction. Their experience enabled them to build anything from timber-frame barns to stone churches. A sawmill was built on the stream and soon began turning out lumber for the influx of new settlers. G. M. Whiteis opened a blacksmith shop in 1850 with “mother earth for the floor and the skies for a roof.”

The nearest post office was 20 miles distant, in Sauk City, Wis., and travel was difficult, being only a rough stone-and-brush trail. In 1864 a road was built over the hill to Spring Green, Wis., where the mail arrived by train. John Cramer traveled the route every Saturday to pick up mail. Plain received its post office

in 1860. A stagecoach dropped off the mail on its weekly trip through the area.

P. W. Perry opened the first general store in 1869 by selling a meager supply of stick candy and several bolts of calico. Subsequent owners added dry goods, groceries and notions.

By the 1880s there were several homes, a store, blacksmith and saloon. C. W. Butterfield, in his 1880 History of Sauk County, noted in Log Town, “…a thirsty individual can get ninety-two percent of bitter

water fuddled with eight percent of alcohol, known as beer, on demand at almost any time.”

Adolph Schoenman built a cheese and butter factory in the village in 1891.

As with many early communities in the Sauk County area, railroad fever was rampant in Plain in the early 1900s. In 1903 a number of venture capitalists met to see if a line could be extended from Lone Rock. But Plain’s dream to connect with the world at large was never realized.

Electric lines were run to the village in 1918 from the newly constructed electric dam at Prairie du Sac, Wis., by way of Spring Green.

Disaster befell this small community during the early part of the 20th century. Hildegarde Thering, in her 1982 book, A History of Plain, recounts the fateful day. “In the early evening of May 21, 1918, the sky was overcast, the air was sultry, with an eerie stillness over all. Looking up the valley, to the south of the village, a twisting mass of cloud churned up Highway

Continued on Page 7

Village of Plain Main Street 1925.

Welcome New and Renewed Members

The following are new Sauk County Historical Society members or members who have renewed since February 2004.

PATRON $250

Edwin Bodendein, LaValle, Wis.

John and Elizabeth Davenport, Minnetonka, Minn.

SPONSOR $100

Michael J. Althen, Baraboo, Wis.

Karl and Melanie Burgi, Baraboo, Wis.

Al Follendorf, Baraboo, Wis.

William Schuette, Reedsburg, Wis.

SUPPORTING $50

Michael and Paula Bunch, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Robert and Helen Dewel, Baraboo, Wis.

Pete Filus, Baraboo, Wis.

Dean and Jean Friday, Austin, Texas

Wayne Hatz, Baraboo, Wis.

Buddy Huffaker, Baraboo, Wis.

Larry and Keri McCoy, Baraboo, Wis.

Ruth Pischke, Baraboo, Wis.

Mo Reilly, Baraboo, Wis.

Helen Saloutos, Baraboo, Wis.

Tim and Susan Schuebel, Baraboo, Wis.

Mark and Jo Ellen Waddell, Baraboo, Wis.

Robin Whyte, Baraboo, Wis.

FRIENDS $35

Allen County Library, Fort Wayne, Ind.

Susan Bock, Cincinnati, Ohio

Joan Fordham, Baraboo, Wis.

Carol Hulterstrum, Baraboo, Wis.

Jan and Fawn Masalewicz, Waukesha, Wis.

John and Rikki McNabb, Baraboo, Wis.

Jerry and Carol Stich, Baraboo, Wis.

Audrey Wendt, Baraboo, Wis.

COUPLE $25

Keith and Virginia Anderson, Baraboo, Wis.

Gerald Belter, Florence, Ariz.

Ron and Janet Brandt, Elgin, ll.

Robert and Patti Brown, Merrimac, Wis.

Jerry and Ellen Dargel, Baraboo, Wis.

Dan and Sandy Edwards, Baraboo, Wis.

Lyle and Marge Getschman, Baraboo, Wis.

Buddy and Sue Gogue, Baraboo, Wis.

Charles and Donna Green, Baraboo, Wis.

Mike and Sandi Holt, Baraboo, Wis.

Marvin and Barbara Juliar, Evanston, Ill.

Jim and Marilyn Karch, Baraboo, Wis.

Arthur and Frances Koenig, Madison, Wis.

Robert and Marjorie Litscher, Baraboo, Wis.

Charles and Roberta Mayer, Lyndon Station, Wis.

Neal and Donna Meier, Baraboo, Wis.

Wayne and Phyllis Mekkelson, Baraboo, Wis.

Jacqueline and Matthew Murphy, Merrimac, Wis.

Harvey and Carol Myers, Reedsburg, Wis.

Timothy and Katherine Nolden, Baraboo, Wis.

Glenn and Marilyn Quale, Baraboo, Wis.

Michael and Rebecca Rundio, Baraboo, Wis.

Steve and Libby Rundio, Baraboo, Wis.

Frank and Colleen Terbilcox, Baraboo, Wis.

Eugene and Sandra Unger, Sauk City, Wis.

Paul and Judy Washam, Baraboo, Wis.

Robert and Louise Yeck, Silver Springs, Md.

John and Tonia Young, Baraboo, Wis.

INDIVIDUAL

Sandra Alexander, Hot Springs, Ariz.

Leta Ambler, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Patricia Beesley, Keizer, Ore.

Leota Bellows, Baraboo, Wis.

Ron Birdd, Reedsburg, Wis.

William Brahney, Auburn, N.Y.

Craig Caflisch, Baraboo, Wis.

Dave Cameron, Reedsburg, Wis.

Richard Dipping, Reedsburg, Wis.

Sister Rose Marie Dischler, Baraboo, Wis.

Elizabeth Dutton, Boalsburg, Pa.

Sylvia Epstein, Middleton, Wis.

Susi Fathauer, Phoenix, Ariz.

John Fletcher, Baraboo, Wis.

Cherri Fry, Reedsburg, Wis.

Sandra Granroth, Madison, Wis.

Nancy Gomez, Del Rio, Texas

Grace Haslanger, Baraboo, Wis.

Brenda Holloway, Baraboo, Wis.

Robert Johnson, Baraboo, Wis.

Cynthia Kauffman, Baraboo, Wis.

William Kidder, Lawrenceville, N.J.

Janet Keylock, Baraboo, Wis.

Marnie Krainik, Madison, Wis.

Liz Kuhart, Reedsburg, Wis.

Jeanne Kurtz, Baraboo, Wis.

Karin Lanphear, Florence, Ariz.

Monica Liegel, Reedsburg, Wis.

Laura Lynch, North Freedom, Wis.

Fred Marini, Melrose, Wis.

Henrietta Marini, Baraboo, Wis.

Sandy Maul, Billings, Mont.

Tom McCarthy, Traverse City, Mich.

Jeannine Mueller, Reedsburg, Wis.

Barb Naidl, Baraboo, Wis.

Craig Olsen, Baraboo, Wis.

Michael Olson, Rio, Wis.

Catharine Ostlind, Merrimac, Wis.

Pat Pulvermacher, Sauk City, Wis.

Patricia Quinn, Little Falls, Minn.

Louise Rich, Baraboo, Wis.

Catherine Rinkob, Cable, Wis.

Jeff Roy, Baraboo, Wis.

William and Marian Schreiber, Baraboo, Wis.

Patricia Schuknecht, Lodi, Wis.

Barbara Shima, W Richlan, Wash.

Neal Simons, Minneapolis, Minn.

Sandra Stiemke, Loganville, Wis.

Ron Straight, Reedsburg, Wis.

Madeline Terry, Baraboo, Wis.

The Nature Conservancy, Baraboo, Wis.

Randy Voss, Reedsburg, Wis.

Roger Wall, Markesan, Wis.

Mike Wolcott, Hartland, Wis.

Membership Renewal

The Sauk County Historical Society mails members renewal notices 30 days before memberships expire. If your membership is not renewed within 30 days of its expiration date the Society will remove you from the current mailing list. Watch for your renewal notice in the mail and please return it promptly. Thank you for your continued support. ✒

To join the Sauk County Historical Society, give a gift membership or renew your membership, send a check for the level you desire along with the member’s name, address and telephone number to the Society at PO BOX 651, Baraboo WI 53913-0651.

Individual $15,Couple $25,Friend $35, Supporting $50,Sponsor $100,Patron $250 +, Benefactor $500+

Membership includes a subscription to this quarterly newsletter, free admission to the Sauk County Historical Museum and access to historical archives, membership meetings and events, and an affiliate membership to the Wisconsin Historical Society with its benefits. Annual dues support all aspects of executing the Society’s mission. ✒

Plain, continued

23 towards St. Luke’s. Suddenly a roaring wind, then a few seconds of calm. The roll of thunder followed by forks of lightning and darkness fell with a heavy sluicing of rain.”

After the storm had passed, residents were horrified to learn that their beloved church was no more. The rectory was gone, the Sister’s house was severely damaged, a sawmill and garage were destroyed, and the twister had blown away numerous homes and farm buildings.

Kraemer Brothers Construction, and other reflections from settlement days, continues to thrive today, as does the village of Plain. ✒

Artifact Donations

Artifacts recently donated to the Sauk County Historical Museum. Item, donor.

1.1948 Centennial poster framed and matted, by Cheryl Breen and William Welch.

2.Copy of Baraboo News Feb. 18, 1909 special edition on Lincoln, by Pamela Hasse.

3.Two circa 1940s dresses worn by Ruth Huth, by Deanna Shank.

4.Title towel, newspaper article and booklet on Helen Baldwin, DAR certificate for Janet Foster, by Sharon McArthur.

5.Information on the Ringling Brothers including articles and obituaries, by Robert Dewel.

6.Around a Bend in the River: Archaeological Investigations along STH 78 in Sauk Co, WI Research report in archaeology Number 141 Volume 1 and 2, November 2002.

7.Loganville, Our Heritage hardbound edition, by Bill Schuette.

8.Two 33 rpm records, Winter Wonderland by the Andrews Sisters and Jingle Bells and the Mistletoe Kiss by the Keynotes, by Mona Larsen.

9.Church Women United papers, by Fran Kelly.

10.Glass Christmas ornaments in original box, by Harland Steinhorst.

11.Ledgers from the Fern Hill School in Franklin

1006

S S S S AUK AUK AUK AUK AUK C C C C C OUNTY OUNTY OUNTY OUNTY OUNTY H H H H ISTORICAL ISTORICAL ISTORICAL S S S S SOCIETY OCIETY OCIETY OCIETY M M M M EMBERSHIP EMBERSHIP EMBERSHIP

A Campus of the University of Wisconsin Colleges

township and their index, by Henry Ferstel.

12.Lange family memorabilia including photographs, textbooks, books, advertising pieces and magazines, by Ann Kent Effinger.

13.Three First National Bank and Trust Co bank bags (red), one token from Hoffman House 25th Anniversary, by Carol Sorg.

14.Cranberry glass miniature mug inscribed with Reedsburg Fair 1908, by Joyce Schellenberger.

15.Baraboo High School year books, by Catherine Rinkob.

16.Photographs, papers, advertising and other materials relating to the independent grocers of Baraboo in 1920 to 1956 including many things related to the Wickus grocery, by Ray Wickus.

17.Materials from the Citizens for Waterfront Revitalization including photographs, by Dean O’Brien.

18.Blueprints of St. Clare Hospital, by Vern Kindschi.

19.Sauk County school annuals from 1930s and 1940s from Lerna Hahn’s estate, a teacher in country schools, donated by her daughter, Mary Ellen McCutchin.

20.Sharpshooter medals, photos, plaques and other materials of the career of Ted Church, sharpshooter, donated by his widow, Virginia Church.

21.WWII nurse uniform including cap, coat, skirt, shirt and tie, by Reva Fullmer O’Brien.

22.Photograph collections and documents relating to the Draper family of North Freedom, by Margaret Draper.

23.Three photographs of Prairie du Sac parade, by Deppe Enterprises.

24.Ariel photograph of Lake Delton from 1968, by the Reedsburg Chamber of Commerce.

25.Plaster frieze from red brick Baraboo High School, by Catherine Rinkob.

26.Five pieces of Sauk County script with drawings from each city in the county, by Red Brill.

27. The Geneaology and History of Pronold Family from Tiefenbach Oberpfalz, Bavaria, by Sarah Poker.

28. Baraboo Dells and Devils Lake Region by H. E. Cole, and Gem City Jubilee sheet music, by Roberta Hunt.

29.Photograph of country school graduation from 1921 or 1922, by Sharon Crahen.

30. My Father Owned a Circus by Robert H. Gollmar, autographed by the author and Baraboo script for 50th Anniversary of the founding of Ringling Brothers Show, by Corey Compton.

31.Plate for First Presbyterian Church 1851–1951 commemorative, Jean Zimmerman. ✒

November 2004

Old Sauk Trails

Victorian Christmas Open House Dec. 11

The Sauk County Historical Society’s fifth annual Victorian Christmas open house is on Dec. 11, 2004, from 12 to 8 p.m. It promises to be a memorable event as the sights and sounds of the season fill the 100-year-old Van Orden mansion, which houses the Sauk County Historical Museum. To add a nostalgic feel to the event, carriage rides around the Museum will run from 2 p.m. until dark, weather permitting. Inside, the mansion will be decorated with 11 Christmas trees in different themes. Live music will fill the air with holiday sounds and a bountiful Christmas table will be filled with refreshments.

A gingerbread replica of the Al. Ringling mansion, created from the original blueprints, will be displayed, and a second gingerbread mansion will be raffled during the open house. The Society invites you to make the open house a part of your holiday activities. Come and enjoy the spirit of a Christmas from 100 years ago.

Gingerbread House Raffle

For the second year, a gingerbread mansion, created with help from Salecker’s Baker’s Dozen Bakery of Baraboo, Wis., will grace the Sauk County Historical Society’s annual Victorian Christmas open house. Volunteers are constructing an

Al. Ringling mansion replica as the centerpiece for the dining room table at the Sauk County Historical Museum. The creation includes over 50 pieces cut right from copies of the mansion’s original blueprints. A second gingerbread mansion is also being created, more fanciful although the same size and shape as the first. This candy mansion will be raffled at the Victorian Christmas open house.

100th Annual Banquet Highlights

On Oct. 26, 2004, the Sauk County Historical Society held its annual fall meeting and banquet at the Opera House in Baraboo, Wis. This was the 100th annual meeting of the Society, which was founded in 1905. After a delicious meal, members approved the secretary’s and treasurer’s reports and elected board members. Re-elected were Eleanor Chiquoine and Mark Graupman of Reedsburg, Bill Schuette of Loganville, and Bev Vaillancourt of LaValle.

The Society presented its 2004 historic preservation award to the Al. Ringling Theatre Friends for completing the theatre’s exterior restoration. Society President Paul Wolter also introduced the Society’s newest publication, Images of America: Baraboo, with a slide presentation highlighting some of the historic photos in the book. ✒

The Newsletter Of The Sauk County Historical Society

Van Orden Mansion 1904–2004

Sauk County Historical Society board members Paul Wolter and Pam Krainik work on this year’s gingerbread house.

Accepting the Sauk County Historical Society’s 2004 historic preservation award from Society President Paul Wolter, right, were Al. Ringling Theatre General Manager Larry McCoy, left, and board member and volunteer, Bryant Hazard, center.

Van Orden Mansion Ornament For Sale

The Sauk County Historical Society is pleased to announce that the Van Orden mansion is highlighted as this year’s Baraboo Christmas ornament! The ornament is available for $27.00 with a stand or $21.00 without. Limited quantities are available at the Sauk County Historical Museum until Christmas. To reserve your Van Orden mansion ornament, call the Museum at 608-356-1001.

A Naturalist’s Journey Released

The Sauk County Historical Society is pleased to report A Naturalist’s Journey, by Ken Lange of Baraboo, Wis., naturalist at Wisconsin’s Devil’s Lake State Park from 1966 to 1996, is now available from New Past Press. In this story of his adventures as a naturalist, he introduces you to the landscape and some of the plants and animals of the Park, but mostly to some of the people who shared his journey.

You will meet a well-known naturalist who was influenced by Aldo Leopold, the “Guardian of the Hills”; several individuals linked to Baxter’s Hollow, a farmer who became so attached to his land that he fought for it; another farmer who when a youngster wondered about rocks that could come all the way from Canada; a woman who in her youth drove to high school in a horse and buggy; a mining engineer who survived the infamous Bataan Death March; a number of bachelor farmers; some local fiddlers; the “Snake Man”; the “Saviour of the Kickapoo”; the “Historian of Sumpter”; a home-grown environmentalist and humanitarian; a renaissance man; a master craftsman and a starving artist. You will also be treated to a nostalgic look at a family café and some of its customers, as this too was part of the author’s journey.

A Naturalist’s Journey by Ken Lange, a 223-page, soft-cover book with many photos, is available for $20 from the Sauk County Historical Museum in Baraboo, Wis. The Museum will take telephone orders and mail it to you for $4.

Baraboo, In Historic Photos Available

If a picture is worth a thousand words then the new book on Baraboo’s history should be worth at least 200,000. Over 200 historic photos divided into ten chapters cover broad themes of Baraboo’s history in the Sauk County Historical Society’s newest publication, Images of America: Baraboo. Published by Arcadia Publishing, the book features many neverbefore published photos and carefully researched captions. The soft-cover book is available through area outlets and the Sauk County Historical Museum in Baraboo, Wis., for $20. It would make an excellent Christmas gift for anyone who has Baraboo in his or her heart.

More Modern Technology At Historic Home

Thanks to the generosity of a private donor, the Sauk County Historical Society has now purchased its third new Dell computer for use at the Sauk County Historical Museum, housed in the 1903 Van Orden mansion. With everything from membership to collections cataloging kept on computer, having a reliable system is essential. Soon the three machines will be networked allowing them to share information

and increasing the work capacity. “This is an exciting development for the Society, never have we had such a wealth of new technology here at the Museum. It’s like Christmas,” said Society Executive Director Peter Shrake.

Historic Portage Area Focus Of Fall Bus Trip

by Peter Shrake, SCHS executive director

The Sauk County Historical Society hosted its fourth annual historic-sites bus trip on Oct. 2, 2004. Past years the trip took sightseers to southern and northern Sauk County and the Sauk Prairie area. This year the trip covered the historic sites of the Portage, Wis., area. Beginning with the Kingsley Bend Indian mounds, 31 people then toured the Museum at the Portage where they learned about the history of the city of Portage and Zona Gale. The tour then went to the circa-1832 Indian Agency house, the home of John and Juliette Kinzie. John Kinzie was an Indian agent for the Ho-Chunk nation in the early 1830s. Juliette Kinzie was the author of the Wisconsin classic Wau-

Bun: the Early Day in the North West. The tour finished at the Surgeon’s Quarters Museum, the only remaining building from Fort Winnebago. The weather held for the entire day providing a sunny backdrop for an afternoon filled with history. ✒

Pedro Party Revives Popular Pastime

by

Paul Wolter,

Lake Delton, Wis.

A game that probably has not been played in Sauk County for at least several decades was revived on Sept. 10, 2004 at the Sauk County Historical Museum in Baraboo, Wis. A small but enthusiastic group of card players learned how to play Pedro (pronounced “peedro”), a popular Victorian-era card game, to help mark the centennial year of the Van Orden mansion, which houses the Museum. The game was certainly played at the Van Orden Mansion 100 years ago and was known to be a favorite of Martha Van Orden. The guests quickly learned and enjoyed the game, and partook of elegant refreshments including finger sandwiches in the shapes of hearts, clubs, diamonds and spades. ✒

Mounds Highlighted At Lecture

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails quarterly. Editor: Nichelle Martin.

The Society maintains the Sauk County Historical Museum , a three-story, 14-room mansion and repository of local history. Open year-round, Tuesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.

Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO BOX 651• Baraboo WI 53913

Tele: 608-356-1001 • E-mail: history@saukcounty.com

Web site: www.saukcounty.com/schs

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

On Oct. 14, 2004, the Sauk County Historical Society hosted archeologist Robert Birmingham, who spoke on the origins and significance of Indian mounds to 42 people gathered at the Van Orden mansion, home to the Sauk County Historical Museum. The slide show and lecture pointed out that the man mounds Sauk County has in Baraboo, Wis., and had in La Valle, Wis., are one of the more rare mound styles.

Continued on page 6.

Old Sauk Trails • November 2004

Historic-sites bus trip participants view the Surgeon’s Quarters Museum in Portage, Wis., Oct. 2, 2004.

Archeologist Robert Birmingham spoke Oct. 14, 2004 about Indian mounds at a Sauk County Historical Society lecture.

Man Mound Park And The Mound Builders

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

In 1908 the Sauk County Historical Society, the Wisconsin Archeological Society and the Wisconsin Federation of Women’s Clubs dedicated Man Mound Park, about four miles northwest of Baraboo, Wis. The park encompasses a mound of earth in the form of a man measuring 214 feet by 48 feet.

Long before the European settlers came to the Midwest, indeed, long before Columbus discovered America, the effigy mound builders were creating their ceremonial and burial mounds in southern Wisconsin and nearby states. At one time over 900 mounds existed in Sauk County alone. Most, over 75 percent, have subsequently been plowed under, erased by floods and destroyed by looters or construction.

One early Honey Creek farmer noted, “We were rather irked by the large number of Indian mounds we had to plow down. There must have been at least 25 on our land. Some were shaped like animals and some like birds, and all were from three to five feet high. I suppose we should not have destroyed them. But they were then regarded merely as obstacles to cultivation, and everybody plowed them down.”

There are three basic forms of mounds: conical, usually incorporating family burials; flat-topped or platform-shaped, constructed for chiefly homes or ceremonial purposes; and effigy mounds in the form of animals, which may represented various clans and lineages. Others have speculated that they may also have had religious significance or acted as guardians of the village.

The effigy mound builders began plying their skills as early as 300 AD, and continued the practice until around 1400 AD when they either abandoned the practice or were assimilated into other Native American cultures. They subsisted primarily by hunting,

fishing and gathering wild vegetables and berries. Few of these early cultures farmed.

William H. Canfield first surveyed the man mound in 1859. At the time it was one of only two man-shaped mounds in the state.

In 1905 H. E. Cole, local historian and photographer, and A. B. Stout, science teacher at Baraboo High School, were conducting an archeological survey of area mounds and the Man Mound in particular. They soon learned that the owner of the property was about to commit the property to the plow! The two men launched an immediate appeal to the Wisconsin Archaeological Society and the Sauk County Historical Society in an effort to obtain the land upon which the mound was situated. They formed a committee which raised $225 to purchase the property. Among those on the committee, were H. E. Cole and Jacob Van Orden, banker and owner of the home where the Sauk County Historical Museum is now located.

Donations of small amounts between $1 and $15 were suggested so many more people could participate in the acquisition. The Wisconsin Federation of Women’s Clubs and the Wisconsin Archeological Society also helped procure funds. By the end of 1907, the collective parties had raised the money and purchased the property.

Cole immediately began clearing the land of vines and brush, seeding grass, setting boundaries and installing hitching posts. Jacob Van Orden donated a plaque, designed by Ferry and Clas of Milwaukee, Wis., commemorating the mound’s discovery and preservation.

On Aug. 8, 1908, a group of 200 assembled at the Warren Hotel and proceeded to the site of Man Mound Park to dedicate the land and the marker. “…vehicles of every description being in waiting and the trip through the picturesque county began,” noted

Man Mound was outlined with flour to make it more visible, in this early 1900s photo.

a reporter. A cloud of choking dust enveloped the queue of travelers as they journeyed to the site over the dirt roads in their open-air autos and horse-drawn carriages.

John M. True of Baraboo spoke to those assembled. “We are pleased to note the increasing interest that is being manifested in the discovery and preservation of this class of relics of a people long since forgotten, of which the Man Mound is considered of the greatest interest and importance of all of Wisconsin’s celebrated emblematic earthworks.”

(similar to today’s muskoxen), a soft undercoat that protected them from the cold, and long tusks (up to 17 feet) used to forage in the deep snow and protect them from other mammoths. Both males and females sported the curved tusks.

The woolly mammoth was not directly related to modern elephants, having diverged from a common ancestor some 5 million years past. Its ancestors from Europe crossed the land bridge that existed between Siberia and Alaska around 1.7 million years ago.

Mummified, frozen carcasses have been unearthed in Siberia and Alaska in recent years, allowing scientists to study their physiology.

Man Mound was partially destroyed in the early part of the last century when the lower part of its legs were excised during road construction.

The Sauk County Historical Society owns Man Mound Park and coordinates with Sauk County to maintain the property. ✒

Woolly Mammoths Once Roamed Baraboo

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

Ask most people who live in and around Baraboo about the largest animal they have seen walking the streets of the city and they will most likely answer, “The Circus World Museum elephants!”

Today that answer is correct, however 5,000 years ago, anyone living in southern Wisconsin might have witnessed the meanderings of one of the largest behemoths to ever inhabit the Sauk County area.

The woolly mammoth was approximately 13 feet tall at the shoulder and weighed three tons, slightly larger than today’s elephants.

These plant eaters had long black and brown hair

We know these woolly mammoths also existed in what was to become Baraboo, because in 1844 an early settler, George W. Brown, his brother-in-law, Marvin Blake, and George Grant, along with several workmen, uncovered the burial site of one of these giant mammoths. They were excavating along the Baraboo River near the old Oak Street dam, intending to put up a sawmill. Upon digging about eight feet down, they discovered the bones of an animal thirtysix feet long, according to an article in Butterfield’s 1880, History of Sauk County. “The bones, though apparently well-kept, on being taken from their resting place, gradually air-slacked and became dust.”

The huge length was probably due to the bones having been scattered over the millennia. Its fate may have been sealed when it fell through the ice and could not escape. Or it may have been killed by early Paleo-Indians during a hunting foray.

Why do we not see remnants of these huge animals today? Some scientists speculate they may have succumbed at the end of the last Ice Age some 4,000 years ago, when the dry vegetation they ate decreased in nutritional quality and they starved. Others think they may have been hunted to extinction by predation from the ever-increasing population of humans.

As far as we know, the remains found at the Oak Street site no longer exist. Perhaps at some time in the

Dedication ceremony of Man Mound plaque in 1908. John M. True, standing left.

future, when excavation again commences along the Baraboo River, someone will shout, “Hey look what I found!” ✒

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

As the centennial year for the Jacob Van Orden mansion draws to a close, plans are in the works for a different centennial, that of the Sauk County Historical Society. In 1905 a group of individuals interested in making sure the area’s history was collected, preserved and shared for future generations founded the Society.

We are those future generations and I am sure the Society’s founders would be pleased that the organization they started is thriving and continuing to grow. They would probably also be amused to think that what was their present is now the past that many people idolize.

The Society has a distinguished history as one of the first local historical societies to be affiliated with the State Historical Society of Wisconsin. After a firm beginning the Society soon became a leader in saving things of local and even national importance like the unique Man Mound. I hope you will join the Society’s board members this coming year as we look back at the origins of our Society and the people who started it. We will also be looking ahead and planning for the Society’s future. Who knows what great things will happen in the next 100 years? ✒

Contributed by a friend of the Sauk County Historical Society.

Continued from page 3

Birmingham discussed mound placement and their place in the history of settlement in this area.

Birmingham was chief archeologist at the Wisconsin Historical Society and recently authored the book Indian Mounds of Wisconsin

“To have someone of Birmingham’s caliber here at the Museum is a great honor,” said Society Executive Director Peter Shrake. ✒

Budget Squeeze Could Close Wisconsin

Historical Museum

Excerpted from the Wisconsin Historical Society Web page.

The Wisconsin Historical Society, facing a statemandated 10-percent tax-supported (GPR) budget reduction in the 2005-07 biennium, could close the Wisconsin Historical Museum on Madison’s Capitol Square and lay off eight permanent staff. Another 5.75 vacant full-time-equivalent (FTE) positions would also be eliminated for a total job loss impact of 13.75 FTE positions.

At a special meeting Nov. 11, 2004, the Society’s board of curators adopted the budget-reduction plan, which would reduce the Society’s 2005-07 budget by $904,600. The Society followed Gov. Jim Doyle’s and the Department of Administration’s directive to avoid making across-the-board cuts and focus on consolidating or eliminating specific programs, to frame its plan.

The budget-reduction plan would leave the Museum with a skeleton staff of just four permanent positions, a minimal curatorial staff to care for the Museum’s extensive collections, and a museum shop manager who is not funded by state tax revenues.

To comply with four rounds of mandated, permanent reductions since July 1, 2001, the Society has already cut more than $2 million of state tax-supported funds, which eliminated 30 permanent positions, or 24 percent of the Society’s staff.

Write letters of support to your state legislators, Governor Doyle, or President Mark L. Gajewski or Secretary/Director Dr. Ellsworth H. Brown at: Wisconsin Historical Society, 816 State ST, Madison WI 53706-1482. Let them know the damage being done to one of the country’s greatest historical treasures. ✒

Welcome New and Renewed Members

The following are new Sauk County Historical Society members or members who have renewed between Aug. 1 and Oct. 31, 2004 .

BENEFACTOR

Virginia Metcalf and Mary Yeakel, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

PATRON

Alan Langeteig, Baraboo, Wis.

SPONSOR

Morris Moseman, Sauk City, Wis.

SUPPORTING

Julie Adelman, Reedsburg, Wis.

Terry Baxter, Baraboo, Wis.

Andrea and James Lombard, Baraboo, Wis.

Jim McGann, Baraboo, Wis.

Glen and Mary Schulz, Baraboo, Wis.

FRIEND

Sue Banaszak, Milwaukee, Wis.

Marlene Meyer, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Nancy Prine, Middleton, Wis.

Paul Wolter, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

COUPLE

William and Corinne Beard, Baraboo, Wis.

Dean and Marian Burmester, LaValle, Wis.

Rich and JJ Calton, Cheyenne, Wyo.

Nancy and Fred Dillman, Baraboo, Wis.

John and Jane Geoghegan, Baraboo, Wis.

Jim and Gladys Getschman, Baraboo, Wis.

Lyle and Marge Getschman, Baraboo, Wis.

Jim and Nancy Higgins, Baraboo, Wis.

Bob and Darlene Hill, Baraboo, Wis.

Gerald and Yvonne Hoff, Arlington Heights, Ill.

Deanna and Anne Horjus, Baraboo, Wis.

Ken and Ida Huber, Boulder Creek, Calif.

Jeanne and James Jessie, Norco, Calif.

Walter Klaetsch, North Freedom, Wis.

Lawrence and Shirley Kowalke, Fort Myers, Fla.

Richard and Sally Lillie, Sauk City, Wis.

Bernard and Diana Long, Waunakee, Wis.

Herb and Darlene Messer, Baraboo, Wis.

Pete Premo, Baraboo, Wis.

Mark and Sharyl Reitz, Baraboo, Wis.

Aliceson and Hal Rubel, Cary, Ill.

Mike and Mary Schell, Baraboo, Wis.

Gene and Jan Suchomel, Reedsburg, Wis.

Brett and Susan Topham, Baraboo, Wis.

Ron and Lynn Trok, Cable, Wis.

Patrick Wilson, Huntington, Ind.

Merlin Zitzner, Baraboo, Wis.

INDIVIDUAL

Dolores Barker, Woodburn, Ore.

Jean Brew, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Merlyn Cox, Ellison Bay, Wis.

Sandra Cunningham, Reedsburg, Wis.

Trudy Danley, Farmington, Mich.

Patrick Dewall, Appleton, Wis.

Janet Dewall, Appleton, Wis.

Donald Dutcher, Broomfield, Colo.

Vera Dwars, Baraboo, Wis.

Christopher Goetz, Lakewood, Wis.

Mark Greimel, Spring Green, Wis.

James Hanger, Reedsburg, Wis.

Mary Hein, Baraboo, Wis.

Sandy Kjernes, Edgerton, Wis.

Stephanie Knox, Baraboo, Wis.

Nancy Kreier, Portage, Wis.

Martin and Luanne Krohn, Reedsburg, Wis.

Louise Leedy, Columbia, Calif.

Jill Livesey, Saline, Mich.

Gladys Marini, Baraboo, Wis.

Betty Marquardt, Baraboo, Wis.

Joan McArthur, Baraboo, Wis.

Lynda Melbert, Tinkley Park, Ill.

Elizabeth Nevers, Baraboo, Wis.

Paul Pike, Lake Zurich, Ill.

Pat Pulvermacher, Sauk City, Wis.

Virginia Roberts, Baraboo, Wis.

William Rose, Kenosha, Wis.

Deanna Schulz, Baraboo, Wis.

Phyllis Stanton, Baraboo, Wis.

Maxine Triff, Madison, Wis.

Robert Woods, Alexandria, Va.

Jeffrey Zuzunaga, Baraboo, Wis.

Membership Renewal

The Sauk County Historical Society mails members renewal notices 30 days before memberships expire. Thank you for your continued support. ✒

H H H H H ISTORICAL S S S S S OCIETY M M M M M EMBERSHIP EMBERSHIP

To join the Sauk County Historical Society, give a gift membership or renew your membership, send a check for the level you desire along with the member’s name, address and telephone number to the Society at PO BOX 651, Baraboo WI 53913-0651.

Individual $15,Couple $25,Friend $35, Supporting $50,Sponsor $100,Patron $250 +, Benefactor $500+

Membership includes a subscription to this quarterly newsletter, free admission to the Sauk County Historical Museum and access to historical archives, membership meetings and events, and an affiliate membership to the Wisconsin Historical Society with its benefits. Annual dues support all aspects of executing the Society’s mission.

2003–2004 SAUK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

John Alt, Baraboo

Bob Brown, Merrimac

Eleanor Chiquoine, Reedsburg

Joan Fordham, Baraboo

John Geoghegan, Baraboo

Mark Graupman, Reedsburg, treasurer

Pam Krainik, Baraboo

Mona Larsen, Baraboo

Bill Schuette, Loganville, secretary

Carol Sorg, Baraboo

Beverly Vaillancourt, LaValle, vice president

Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, president

Museum Gift Shop

A sampling of merchandise available at the Sauk County Historical Museum. For a complete list visit www.saukcounty.com/schs. Members get discounted prices on some items.

Books:

*A Naturalist’s Journey.......................................$20.00

*Baraboo, a pictorial history book......................$20.00

*Ghost Village of White Mound–Billytown.......$15.00

*Park Hall: A Symbol of Freedom in America...$20.00

*Portage: A Sesquicentennial History.................$35.00

*Sauk County Iron Mining....................................$3.00

*Stagecoach and Tavern Tales.............................$20.00

*Reedsburg Historic Postcards............................$20.00

Posters: Honey Creek-Ragatz Church...............................$25.00

Baraboo Map, 1886...............................................$5.00

*Notecards.............................................................$5.00

Ornament:

*Van Orden mansion ornament...........................$21.00

*Van Orden mansion ornament with stand.........$27.00

* Indicates a new addition to the collection.

The Sauk County Historical Society wishes its members, friends and supporters a holiday season full of old-fashioned goodness and a blessed New Year!

February

Old Sauk Trails

The newsletter of the Sauk County Historical Society Celebrating Its Centennial 1905–2005

Society Enters Its Centennial Year

2005 marks the Sauk County Historical Society’s 100th anniversary. In June 1905 a small group of individuals met to establish a countywide historical society that would collect, study and preserve Sauk County history. This year the Society will commemorate its founders’ efforts with events planned throughout the year on significant dates.

On May 13, 2005, a lecture at the Sauk County Historical Museum will showcase some of the unique items collected over the last 100 years. A Founders’ Day Picnic will be held on June 2, 2005, the exact day when a handful of citizens met at the home of newspaper editor, H. E. Cole, in Baraboo to start the Society. Officers were elected and the secretary was instructed to look into formal papers for incorporation. Almost as soon as the Society was started, and perhaps even before, artifacts began to be collected for presentation. Also this summer the Society will host The Great Sauk County History Hunt, a countywide historic sites tour that will encourage participants to visit several historic places in the county and become eligible to win prizes. This fall the Society will have its annual banquet and membership meeting on the exact day of another 1905 Society meeting, and host an open house on Nov. 24, 2005, the official day the Society became incorporated.

These activities as well as the Society’s usual showings at various summer events will make for a busy year. The Society invites you and your friends to participate, volunteer and celebrate as the Society commemorates its centennial. ✒

Seeking Remembrances For County Courthouse Centennial

by Carol Sorg, Baraboo, Wis.

Significant occurrences in the year 1905 will be observed, remarked and celebrated during their centennial year of 2005. The Sauk County Historical Society, incorporated Nov. 24, 1905, will observe its 100th anniversary. Remarked is the century-old Al. Ringling mansion at 623 Broadway, Baraboo, Wis., now the Baraboo Elks Club (BPOE); its construction commenced Aug. 2, 1905. The construction of Sauk County’s landmark courthouse, which began April 8, 1905, following a disastrous fire Dec. 27, 1904, that destroyed the previous courthouse, will be celebrated.

Last summer a committee began planning dual celebrations for the courthouse centennial. The first celebration will be July 21, 2005, on the courthouse lawn. It will include opening the official 1905 cornerstone time capsule, an ice cream social and a special presentation by Concerts on the Square. When courthouse construction began in 1905 a time capsule containing many items such as newspapers of the period, photographs and documents was placed in the southwest corner of the building.

Plans for a 2006 celebration to commemorate occupancy of the courthouse in August 1906 are underway. Peter Shrake, Society executive director, is chairing the planning committee, and members are Paul Wolter, Society president; Art Carlson, member of the Sauk County Board of Supervisors; Kathy Schauf, Sauk County management analyst; Gerry Stitch, U.W.-Sauk County emeritus professor of music and maestro of Concerts on the Square; local historian Bob Dewel; and Carol Sorg, Sauk County Arts, Humanities and Historic Preservation committee member.

The committee earnestly seeks early recollections, remembrances, memorabilia and photographs of the landmark courthouse or the square for a booklet it is compiling relating the Sauk County courthouse’s

H. E. Cole, Sauk County Historical Society co-founder and first president.

history and its predecessors. If you have anything to share, please contact the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001, or me at 608-356-5883. ✒

5th Annual Canfield Day April 9

The Sauk County Historical Society will celebrate the fifth annual William H. Canfield Day on April 9, 2005 at 7 p.m. at the Sauk County Historical Museum. This year’s program will focus on Canfield’s involvement with the Old Setters’ Association and his thoughts about the formation of the Sauk County Historical Society in 1905. The Society will present its annual William H. Canfield History Award during the evening to honor the work of another Sauk County historian who displays the same passion for local history as Canfield did. Refreshments will round out the evening. ✒

Nominees Needed For Canfield History Award

The Sauk County Historical Society will award its fourth William H. Canfield History Award on April 9, 2005 to honor the memory of Sauk County’s earliest historian by recognizing an individual who has made an abiding commitment to local history and whose efforts are reflected in a body of work or certain contributions. The Society will accept nominations until March 25, 2005. If you have nominated someone in the past please fill out a new form for this year’s award. See the nomination form on page 3. ✒

Artifact Number One

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

Among the thousands of historical objects and records found in the Jacob Van Orden mansion on Fourth Avenue in Baraboo, Wis., which houses the Sauk County Historical Museum, is a simple artifact. It is unassuming, crude, unmarked and extremely heavy. Sitting on the floor in the Native American Room, most visitors rarely notice it; those who do probably give it little thought. It is a smooth oval quartzite rock just a little smaller than a basketball. On the top is a hand-forged iron eyebolt secured firmly into the stone. When the Sauk County Historical Society acquired the artifact it was attributed to the fur trade era. The donor, William Dennis of Merrimac,

Wis., found it while digging a cellar for his house. He lived along the Wisconsin River and immediately assumed it was an anchor used by an early French voyageur to secure a canoe or bateau when he stopped for breaks on his long voyages. William concluded the ancient anchor was so stuck in the mud that its user abandoned it.

It may indeed be an anchor. But whether this unusual piece is from the French era is almost impossible to tell. The hand-forged eyebolt indicates it was made before the Civil War. Society member Mark Tully, an expert on the French period, points out that such anchors were impractical to the voyageurs. Why lug around a heavy anchor, in addition to a heavy cargo of furs and trade goods, when you can just as easily tie the canoe to a tree or lift it onto the riverbank?

But it really does not matter if the object is from the early French period. The anchor is one of the most significant artifacts in the Society’s collection for an entirely different reason. Its catalog designation is number 1 and was given to the Society in May 1905. The anchor is the first artifact ever donated to Society. So, perhaps it is not a pretty object, and perhaps it is one easily overlooked, but its significance cannot be underrated. For among the thousands of artifacts and archival material within the Museum, it is unique, if for no other reason than it preceded them all. ✒

Old Sauk Trails • February 2005

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails quarterly. Editor: Nichelle Martin.

The Society maintains the Sauk County Historical Museum, a three-story, 14-room mansion and repository of local history. Open year-round, Tuesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.

Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO BOX 651• Baraboo WI 53913 Tele: 608-356-1001 • E-mail: history@saukcounty.com

Web site: www.saukcounty.com/schs

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

Sauk County Historical Society artifact number 1.

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

Well it’s finally here, 2005. When I joined the Sauk County Historical Society’s board of directors several years ago I thought how neat it would be when the Society celebrated its centennial. Not many organizations make it this far. Many people I talk to are surprised that the Society is turning 100. Certainly one must wonder if its founders thought it would survive this long. I think they would also find it curious that their lives are now the subject of research and scrutiny.

The Society is endeavoring to find descendants of its original founding members, a process that is aided immensely by tools such as the Internet. One thing that has become apparent is that people who had no family connections to Sauk County started the Society. Its two main co-founders, H. E. Cole and A. B. Stout, were not even born in Wisconsin, but when they moved here Sauk County’s ancient and pioneer past intrigued them. Now their era is the subject of much interest. I think they would be pleased to know that their efforts were not in vain and that nationally important sites like the Man Mound that they worked to preserve are still being taken care of.

The Society as one of the earliest affiliates of the State Historical Society of Wisconsin has a long and respected history. Please join the board of directors this year as it turns the spotlight on the Society and makes this year one for the history books.

Hundreds Enjoy Christmas Open House

While we have been having an interesting winter, Mother Nature cooperated in December by providing a light snow just in time for the Sauk County Historical Society’s fifth annual Christmas open house Dec. 11, 2004. The Van Orden mansion, home of the Sauk County Historical Museum, was decorated for the holiday season with 12 Christmas trees and other decorations transforming the Museum into a Christmas wonderland. Area businesses decorated four of

the trees, including Amber Moon and Bekah Kate’s of Baraboo, Garden Relish of West Baraboo and Crazy Daisy of Lake Delton. Society volunteers decorated

W W W W ILLIAM ILLIAM ILLIAM ILLIAM H. C H. C H. C H. C H. C ANFIELD ANFIELD ANFIELD ANFIELD H H H H ISTORY ISTORY ISTORY ISTORY A A

Deadline: March 25, 2005. Submit to: Sauk County Historical Society • PO BOX 651 • Baraboo WI 53913

Submitter’s name__________________________________________Telephone#_______________________

Address____________________________________________________________________________________

E-mail address_________________________________

Nominee’s name___________________________________________Telephone#_______________________

Address____________________________________________________________________________________

E-mail address_________________________________

On a separate piece of paper, please complete the following paragraph in 500 words or less:

I nominate _________, who, like William H. Canfield, shows a passion for local history as shown by his/her/its…

the other trees.

Society board member Mona Larsen coordinated live music by numerous area musicians for the eight hours of the open house. Carriage rides were provided courtesy of the Baraboo National Bank and volunteers filled a bountiful refreshment table. A record 600 people kept a steady stream coming through the front doors. The Society thanks all of the volunteers and donors who made the event possible. It has fast become a community tradition. Thank you. ✒

Gingerbread Mansion Celebrates Al. and Lou Ringling

The centerpiece for the refreshment table at the Sauk County Historical Society’s fifth annual Christmas open house Dec. 11, 2004, was an exact gingerbread model of the Al. Ringling mansion on Broadway in Baraboo, Wis. With the help of Salecker’s Baker’s Dozen

Bakery of Baraboo, volunteers made two gingerbread models of the house using the original blueprints provided by the Baraboo Elks Club, which now owns the building. Volunteers spent 70 hours completing the two gingerbread houses, one covered in candy and the other a faithful reproduction including all the windows. The candy house was raffled during the open house and won by Nancy Vodak, who happens to be the wife of Baraboo Elk Harley Vodak. Both gingerbread mansions now reside at the Elks Club. ✒

Society’s Light Parade Float

The Sauk County Historical Society again hosted a float in the 2004 Downtown Baraboo Holly Jolly Light Parade on Nov. 20. With help from Senger Lumber of Baraboo, the float featured The Little Engine That Could in keeping with the parade’s storybook Christmas theme. The float won best use of lights and the Society thanks Senger Lumber for its generous support. ✒

Phone: 608-356-3966

HARRISBURG SCHOOL RESTORATION

We need your help!

Archives ~ Artifacts ~ Funds ~ Helping Hands

If you can help, please call me.

John Sorg 608-643-5480

Revolutionary War Veteran

Continued from page 5. buried in the Dellona Center Cemetery.

Salome was granted his pension in 1857, at age 90. She continued her application for the Bounty Land and was granted 160 acres in Dodge County, Minn., in 1859. Salome died in 1860 and is buried beside her husband.

On July 4, 1975, the people of Reedsburg honored the Greenslit family and dedicated a bronze plaque that was placed on the grave at the Dellona Center Cemetery. The grave was located through the work of the Wisconsin Sons of the American Revolution and the Wisconsin State Old Cemetery Society. Greenslit descendants from across the country came to pay their respects that sunny summer day. ✒

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Sauk County’s Only Revolutionary War Veteran

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

Private John Greenslit is the only known veteran of the Revolutionary War (1775–83) to be buried in Sauk County. He is a descendant of the Greenslade family who immigrated to the new colonies from England around 1642, when Thomas and Ann arrived on the shores of America.

The unusual surname can be traced to the Old English “Slaed”, which was used to denote a valley. Thus, Greenslade translates to mean a green valley. Ann Greenslade, John’s great-great-great-great grandmother, was pronounced a witch and sentenced to death under the laws of Salem, Mass. She was hanged around the age of 65 in 1692. Subsequently the family surname was changed to Greenslit. Ann Greenslade was finally exonerated from the charge of witchcraft by an act of the Massachusetts Legislature in 1957. (The Sauk County Historical Society has the complete account of her trial and the contemporary efforts to clear her name.)

John was born June 5, 1767 in Hampton, Conn., to John and Sarah Greenslit, descendants of that original pioneer family.

In 1776, the British army took over New York, and Long Island became their stronghold for the duration of what became known as the Revolutionary War. In September 1782 John Greenslit Jr., at the tender age of 15, enlisted in the Connecticut State Troop to help America fight for its independence. (Toward the end of the war, it was not unusual for boys of his age to enlist.) He served at Fort Trumbull, Newton, Conn., and then at Fort Griswold in Groton. Private John Greenslit experienced several incursions into Long Island during his year of service in the army and perhaps saw some action, although it is not recorded in his family history.

With the surrender of Cornwallis at Yorktown in 1781, America’s war for independence was nearly over. However, there were still minor battles between the British and colonists for another two years. On Sept. 3, 1783, representatives of the combatants signed the Paris Peace Treaty and the Revolutionary War officially ended. The British finally left New York and Long Island on Nov. 15, 1783. Private John Greenslit was mustered out of the service in September of 1783 at 16 and returned to his family home in Connecticut.

John married Salome Pitts of Ashford, Conn., in 1790 and they became the proud parents of a family that eventually numbered eight children.

It is not inappropriate to assume that during the long, cold New England winters, seated near the fireplace around a roaring fire, that John would recount his youthful encounter with the Redcoats, his young children listening in rapt attention to every detail. Later in life, he would again retell the stories to his grandchildren, perhaps embellishing a bit upon his role as a soldier during those exciting times in America’s history.

One of his sons, Henry, in 1848 moved to Dellona Township and then to Franklin Township in Sauk County. Another son, Steven, also moved to Dellona Township in 1854. Later Steven relocated to the new state of Minnesota during the late 1850s.

At 87, John, who was living in Vermont in 1855, applied for 160 acres of Bounty Land. An Act of Congress in 1855 granted Bounty Land, or free land, to certain soldiers who had served in the U.S. military. John and Salome moved to Dellona Township in 1855 to be near their son. John died on April 1, 1856 at the home of his son, Henry, in Dellona Township and is Continued on page 4.

Wisconsin State Old Cemetery Society and Fay Robinson Chapter of Daughters of the American Revolution members install a marker at Dellona Center Cemetery grave of John Greenslit in 1975, the only Revolutionary War veteran buried in Sauk County. L–R back: Genevieve Parsons, Ena Moll, Raymond Seger. Front: Ruth Burmester, Jill Vladik, Mark Vladik and Bette Hall.

Welcome New and Renewed Members

The following are new Sauk County Historical Society members or members who have renewed between Nov. 1, 2004 and Jan. 31, 2005.

PATRON

Kathy Shrake, Lakewood, Wis.

Carol Sorg, Baraboo, Wis.

SPONSOR

Ron and Lynda Barganz, Baraboo, Wis.

David and Tana Holmblad, Reedsburg, Wis.

Mona and Gene Larsen, Baraboo, Wis.

Walter and Marie Scott, Baraboo, Wis.

Dennis and Kathleen Thurow, Baraboo, Wis.

Bev Vaillancourt, LaValle, Wis.

SUPPORTING

Patricia Baade, Baraboo, Wis.

Frederic Behn, Rock Springs, Wis.

Robert and Joyce Breen, Hartford, Wis.

Dr. Carlson and Kari Edwards, Baraboo, Wis.

Virgil, Cheryl and Vi Erlandson, Baraboo, Wis.

Reva O’Brien, Baraboo, Wis.

Jeff Sorg, Kalispell, Mont.

Betty Thiessen, Baraboo, Wis.

FRIEND

George Archibald, Baraboo, Wis.

Jeanette Wanless Jessop, LaValle, Wis.

Paul and Aural Umhoefer, Baraboo, Wis.

COUPLE

Ray and Hazel Bayley, Madison, Wis.

Thomas and Jacqueline Bladl, Fond du Lac, Wis.

Mary and Millie Canepa, Baraboo, Wis.

Francis and Joan Costerisan, Hendersonville, N.C.

Karen and Howard Diehl, Spring Green, Wis.

Bob and Carolyn Doepke, Baraboo, Wis.

Rick and Yenti Eilertson, Baraboo, Wis.

David and Jeanne Fuhs, Baraboo, Wis.

Lyle and Marge Getschman, Baraboo, Wis.

Mark and Candice Graupman, Reedsburg, Wis.

Bill and Deb Johnsen, Baraboo, Wis.

LaDonna Lindquist, Verona, Wis.

Ralph and Sharon Malec, Fitchburg, Wis.

Ron and Trisha Manning, Columbus, Ohio

John and Nancy Rago, Baraboo, Wis.

Allan and Nancy Schmid, Baraboo, Wis.

Jerald and Zita Schultz, Baraboo, Wis.

Don and Verna Shook, Baraboo, Wis.

Walter and Yvonne Smith, Baraboo, Wis.

Ben and Inez Stewart, West Baraboo, Wis.

John and Donna Taapkan, North Freedom, Wis.

Terry and Patricia Turnquist, Baraboo, Wis.

William Welk and Sharron Rheaume, Baraboo, Wis.

Harry and Leah Wolcott, Baraboo, Wis.

INDIVIDUAL

Lynda Baymiller, Baraboo, Wis.

Carol Birch, Baraboo, Wis.

Donald Cole, DeForest, Wis.

Phyllis Dearborn, Sauk City, Wis.

Richard Dipping, Reedsburg, Wis.

Steve Gall, Madison, Wis.

Margo Gallus, Merrimac, Wis.

Rex Getschman, Baraboo, Wis.

Bob Hirschinger, Baraboo, Wis.

Dorothy J. Howland, Baraboo, Wis.

Lola Huber, North Freedom, Wis.

Dale Jaedike, North Freedom, Wis.

Vieva Johnson, Broomfield, Colo.

Cynthia Kauffman, Baraboo, Wis.

Bob Kieffer Jr., Baraboo, Wis.

Connye LaCombe, West St. Paul, Minn.

Joice Meyer, Reedsburg, Wis.

Barb Opperman, Baraboo, Wis.

Jewel Osborne, Baraboo, Wis.

Jack Pittman, Atlantic, Iowa

Kathryn Schauf, Baraboo, Wis.

Theodore Shepard, Otis Orchards, Wash.

Kathy Steckelberg, Arlington, Va.

Burt Wright, Los Angeles, Calif.

Membership Renewal

The Sauk County Historical Society mails members renewal notices 30 days before memberships expire. If your membership is not renewed within 30 days of its expiration date the Society will remove you from the current mailing list. Watch for your renewal notice in the mail and please return it promptly. Thank you for your continued support. ✒

S S S S AUK AUK AUK AUK C C C C COUNTY OUNTY OUNTY OUNTY H H ISTORICAL ISTORICAL S SOCIETY OCIETY M MEMBERSHIP EMBERSHIP

To join the Sauk County Historical Society, give a gift membership or renew your membership, send a check for the level you desire along with the member’s name, address and telephone number to the Society at PO BOX 651, Baraboo WI 53913-0651.

Individual $15,Couple $25,Friend $35, Supporting $50,Sponsor $100,Patron $250 +, Benefactor $500+

Membership includes a subscription to this quarterly newsletter, free admission to the Sauk County Historical Museum and access to historical archives, membership meetings and events, and an affiliate membership to the Wisconsin Historical Society with its benefits. Annual dues support all aspects of executing the Society’s mission.

Sauk County In 1905

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

What was Sauk County like 100 years ago when the Sauk County Historical Society was established?

The 1905 Sauk County Telephone Directory boasted about 20,000 listings for residents and businesses although the population was about 33,000 compared with today’s population of about 55,000. The county was largely agricultural and produced great crops of oats, rye, barley, corn and potatoes as well as clover and timothy to feed its cattle, sheep, hogs and horses, which often won awards at county, state and world’s fairs. Honey, poultry, eggs and apples were also important crops. Railroad connections provided a way to get fresh goods including butter and cheese to faraway markets.

Rural life was also becoming less isolated. The county directory said the county had over 2,000 miles of telephone lines with “upwards of 1,800 phones in daily use.” Rural mail delivery also provided a connection with thousands of farm families. A handful of automobiles about the county foretold of things to come although the days of horsepower would hold on well into the 20th century.

One thing that has diminished in the county over the past 100 years is the number of newspapers. In 1905 Sauk County had 10 local newspapers in print, but it did not have radio, television or the Internet. While many of the pioneer-era buildings are gone, many of the buildings around in 1905 are still with us today including the county courthouse that was erected that year. The Society’s current home, the Van Orden mansion on Fourth Avenue in Baraboo, Wis., Continued on page 8.

Besides the remarkable bounty of its soil, the county is rich in historical data and legendary lore.—H. E. Cole, from A Standard History of Sauk County

Upcoming Events

If you have questions please call the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001 or watch local newspapers before each event for information.

Tuesday, March 22, 7 p.m.—Free public lecture The Influenza Epidemic in Sauk County, by Sauk County Historical Society Executive Director Pete Shrake, at the Reedsburg Public Library.

Thursday, March 24, 7:00 p.m.—The Surly Surveyor, a free public lecture by Rob Nurre, recently recognized by U.W.-Madison alumni magazine for his popular presentations. Rob’s alter-ego, The Surly Surveyor, will take us back in time to re-discover part of the Baraboo Range by looking through the eyes of the earliest surveyors and bringing pages from their original journals to life. One of Sauk County’s first surveyors, William Canfield’s equipment will be displayed. Cosponsored by the Baraboo Range Preservation Association, at the Opera House in Baraboo.

Saturday, April 9, 7 p.m.—The Fifth Annual William H. Canfield Day Celebration at the Sauk County Historical Museum. Canfield History Award presentation, program and refreshments. The public is welcome.

Friday, May 13, 7 p.m.—A Century of Collecting, a free public lecture and display of the Sauk County Historical Society’s earliest acquisitions to highlight the Society’s centennial, at the Sauk County Historical Museum.

Thursday, June 2, 6 p.m.—Founders’ Day Picnic, the Sauk County Historical Society’s annual summer picnic to commemorate the Society’s first meeting on this date in 1905. A program will highlight the founding members and the forces behind the Society’s formation.

REEDSBURG

300 Alexander Ave. Reedsburg WI 53959 608-524-4386

web site http://matcmadison.edu/reedsburg/

Thursday, July 21—A centennial celebration of the Sauk County courthouse on the courthouse lawn including opening the official 1905 cornerstone time capsule, an ice cream social and a special presentation by Concerts on the Square.

Continued from page 7. was just one year old when the Society started in 1905. The realized and potential loss of ancient sites such as the Man Mound and the slipping away of pioneer settlers prompted the Society to form when it did. It was one of the first affiliates with the State Historical Society of Wisconsin, which set an excellent example as it was established in 1840, eight years before Wisconsin even became a state. ✒

Museum Gift Shop

A sampling of merchandise available at the Sauk County Historical Museum. For a complete list visit www.saukcounty.com/schs. Members get discounted prices on some items.

Books:

*Images of America: Baraboo.............................$20.00

*A Naturalist’s Journey.......................................$20.00

*Ghost Village of White Mound–Billytown.......$15.00

*Park Hall: A Symbol of Freedom in America...$20.00

*Portage: A Sesquicentennial History.................$35.00

*Sauk County Iron Mining....................................$3.00

*Stagecoach and Tavern Tales.............................$20.00

*Reedsburg Historic Postcards............................$20.00

Posters:

Reedsburg..............................................................$4.00

Wisconsin Heights Battleground...........................$8.00

1006 Connie Road • Baraboo, Wis. 53913-1098

Phone: 608-356-8351, ext. 220

Fax: 608-355-7911

www.uwc.edu/baraboo-sauk

*Notecards.............................................................$5.00

Ornament:

*Van Orden mansion ornament...........................$21.00

*Van Orden mansion ornament with stand.........$27.00

* Indicates a new addition to the collection.

A Campus of the University of Wisconsin Colleges

May 2005

Old Sauk Trails

The newsletter of the Sauk County Historical Society Celebrating Its Centennial 1905–2005

Founders’ Day Picnic June 2

The Sauk County Historical Society will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a Founders’ Day Picnic on June 2, 2005; the exact day the Society’s founders gathered at newspaper editor H. E. Cole’s home at 121 Eighth Street in Baraboo, Wis., and started the Society 100 years ago. The current board of directors will begin the June 2nd celebration by meeting in the same house where the Society began in 1905. It is now owned by Timothy Tegge, who is graciously allowing the board to return and commemorate the day.

After this commemorative meeting, the board will host the Founders’ Day Picnic at 6 p.m. on the north lawn of the Charles Ringling estate at 201 Eighth Street, Baraboo, now owned by Sally Ringling Clayton-Jones. A tent and furnishings will be provided for a grand picnic to include grilled steak and chicken, fresh fruit salad, assorted cheese, potato salad, baked beans and dessert. The cost is $15.00 per person.

A brief history of the Society’s origins will be given highlighting the six people who met that day to start the organization. This event serves as the Society’s annual summer picnic. You are invited to help the Society honor this historic day, which comes once in a lifetime. An invitation is inserted in this newsletter and a reservation form is on page 7. Reservations are due May 25, 2005. ✒

A Century Of Collecting Lecture May 13

The Sauk County Historical Society will host a free public lecture, A Century of Collecting, May 13, 2005, at 7 p.m. at the Sauk County Historical Museum in Baraboo, Wis., as part of the Society’s 2005 centennial celebration. Society Executive Director Peter Shrake will discuss and show some of the Society’s earliest and most unique accessions. The Society’s first artifact, a mysterious stone weight or anchor, will start the evening as a journey through the accession

books ensues. Reservations are not needed. ✒

Photo Contest For Historic Preservation And Archaeology Month

Sauk County is celebrating Wisconsin Historic Preservation and Archaeology Month in May 2005 with a photography contest. The theme is Restore America: Communities at a Crossroads, and the entry deadline is May 21, 2005.

The photo contest encourages Sauk county residents to learn more about their county’s rich historic heritage as depicted in architecture and archaeological sites and capture the essence of that heritage through the art of photography. Winning photographs will be used to create public displays.

Entries need to document either an architectural or archaeological subject or feature in Sauk County. Photographs should be 5 inches by 7 inches and printed on photographic paper. Entries will be evaluated upon historic significance, artistic merit and technical merit.

Prizes will be awarded for the best photographs as follows: first $100, second $75 and third $50. All participants will receive a copy of Looking Into History, The Sauk County Area by Dean and Polly O’Brien, a copy of the poster Old Places, New Spaces and a county map that includes historic sites.

Entry forms can be downloaded from http:// www.co.sauk.wi.us/dept/arts/index.html or call Sauk County Administrative Coordinator Kathy Schauf at 608-355-3274. Entry forms and photographs are due to Kathy May 21, 2005. Submitted photographs will not be returned. ✒

Century Dinner With The Van Ordens June 18

On June 18, 2005, the Sauk County Historical Society will host a lavish Victorian dinner at the 1904 Van Orden mansion on Fourth Avenue in Baraboo, Wis., now home of the Sauk County Historical Mu-

seum, with special hosts Lucas Schuyler Van Orden IV and his wife, Nadia Van Orden, who will greet guests as their great grandparents did 100 years ago. A string quartet will entertain guests before they proceed to the elegantly appointed dining room where costumed maids will serve a sumptuous multi-course dinner prepared from an 1896 menu. Guests will be coached in Victorian dinner etiquette and will obtain a true living-history experience.

The cost is $125 per person. There are only 10 seats available and reservations will be taken on a first-come first-served basis, and are due June 11, 2005. Contact the Museum at 608-356-1001 if you are interested. This event is held every two years. ✒

The Great Sauk County History Hunt

To help celebrate the centennial year of the Sauk County Historical Society, the Society will hold The Great Sauk County History Hunt August 6 and 7, 2005, to encourage the public to go out and experience their local historic sites. Several historic sites from around the county will partake in the weekend event where participants will have their Passports to History stamped in order to qualify for prize drawings. At the various stops visitors will also be asked to find certain artifacts or answer questions in order to be eligible for drawings at each site. Mark the date, find your magnifying glasses and watch for details in local newspapers and other media sources regarding the Great Sauk County History Hunt. ✒

County Courthouse Centennial July 21

2005 marks the 100th anniversary when construction began on Sauk County’s historic courthouse in Baraboo, Wis., a building that took more than a year to complete. Sauk County and the historical society will host a celebration July 21, 2005, at 6 p.m. on the courthouse square, to initially observe the landmark courthouse’s centennial.

The evening will include opening the 1905 cornerstone time capsule, and removing, displaying and examining its contents, which will be encased and displayed for public viewing through the ensuing year. The July 21st celebration will also include an ice cream social, free to all through the generosity of Sysco Foods, Baraboo, and a special presentation in keeping with the event by the venerable Concerts on the Square. Please plan to attend, and remember that another courthouse celebration will occur in August 2006 to mark occupying the courthouse in that month in 1906! ✒

Robert Dewel Receives 2005 Canfield Award

On April 9, 2005, about 35 people gathered at the Sauk County Historical Museum to observe the Sauk County Historical Society’s fifth annual William H. Canfield Day on the 186th anniversary of the birth of Sauk County’s first historian. The Society presented Dr. Robert Dewel of Baraboo, Wis., with its 2005 William H. Canfield History Award to recognize his historical writings that include over 270 newspaper articles, which he has compiled in seven volumes. This annual award is given to local historians who work in the same spirit as Canfield, who settled on Skillet Creek in 1842. Canfield began writing historical sketches of the county as early as 1861 and founded the Old Settlers Association in 1872.

L–R: Sauk County Historical Society President Paul Wolter presented Dr. Bob Dewel with the Society’s 2005 William H. Canfield History Award during the Canfield Day celebration April 9, 2005.

Society President Paul Wolter spoke about Canfield’s feelings about the formation of the Sauk County Historical Society 100 years ago. He explained that Canfield wrote an article for the Sauk County Democrat promoting his organization, the Old Settlers Association, and giving less than enthusiastic support for the new group. Canfield, who was 86

when the Society organized, was still active and was building a retreat at Devil’s Lake for the Old Settlers and the public, which consisted of a two-story tree house shaped like a giant California sequoia and a replica log cabin. Although Canfield initially saw the “new” historical society as something like competition, he eventually supported the group and many of his personal items are now in its archives and displayed at the Museum. ✒

Intern Working At Museum

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

This spring the Sauk County Historical Society is pleased to have Thomas Foellmi, a student at the University of Wisconsin-Baraboo/Sauk County, working at the Sauk County Historical Museum as an intern. Every spring the Society is fortunate to have students from the University intern here. Their work has collectively made significant strides in organizing and cataloging archival collections. Thomas is no exception. For much of the spring he has diligently cataloged the vast school records collection and is currently wading through the local government records. The Society is indebted to the University, and to Dr. Michael Jacobs, professor of history there, who selects each intern for the Society. Thomas will be leaving at the end of May. The Society wishes him all the best and extends a heartfelt thank you for all his hard work. ✒

Pick’n Save’s We Care Program Benefits Society

The Sauk County Historical Society is now enrolled in the We Care program at Pierce’s Pick’n Save Supermarket in Baraboo, Wis. By designating 700500 on your Advantage Plus Savers Club Card you can help support the Society every time you use your card and purchase groceries. ✒

The Harrisburgers Highlights

by Carol Sorg, Baraboo, Wis.

The Harrisburgers is an affiliate group of the Sauk County Historical Society of dedicated people with roots in the area of Troy Township, Sauk County, known since 1846 as Harrisburg. As an entity, Harrisburg served its community with a school, church and cemetery, each extant.

Presently, The Harrisburgers are restoring the oneroom school, which served from 1850–1955. Restoring the school is a challenge. Workers have raised the school from its foundation, excavated and replaced that foundation. Secure atop its new foundation, the school awaits further restoration. Restoration funds are needed.

The Harrisburgers will host a fundraising pork chop/chicken noon meal at the school site (Highway B west of Sauk City, Wis.) on June 19, 2005. Join us for fine food and an opportunity to help preserve a fast-disappearing feature of Sauk County, a one-room schoolhouse. ✒

Badger History Group Work Continues

by Carol Sorg, Baraboo, Wis.

608-643-5480

Old Sauk Trails • May 2005

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails quarterly. Editor: Nichelle Martin.

The Society maintains the Sauk County Historical Museum, a three-story, 14-room mansion and repository of local history. Open year-round, Tuesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.

Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO BOX 651• Baraboo WI 53913

Tele: 608-356-1001 • E-mail: history@saukcounty.com

Web site: www.saukcounty.com/schs

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

The Sauk County Historical Society sponsors two affiliate groups. One is the Badger History Group (BHG), an affiliate since 1998, and the other is The Harrisburgers. The BHG preserves the history of the Badger Ordnance Works (BOW), now known as the Badger Army Ammunition Plant (BAAP), and familiarly known as the powder plant.

Preserving the powder plant history includes onsite cataloging of archives, collecting artifacts and interviewing members of farm families who departed the Sauk Prairie in 1942 to make room for the plant. These interviews, taped, videographed and written, are an important aspect of the preservation effort. Just so with memorabilia collected concerning Badger

Village, those who resided there, and the compounds/ barracks/dwellings in which they resided. Historical preservation efforts prevail as the powder plant buildings continue to be dismantled, and a resolution continues to be sought for disposing of the land that was once the Sauk Prairie. ✒

Educating Youth: Purest Form Of Preservation

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

The Sauk County Historical Society is 100 years old! This is a remarkable achievement for any organization, but for a historical institution, it is a true milestone. We are one of the oldest historical societies in Wisconsin. For 100 years the Society has been educating the people of Sauk County through exhibits, lecture programs and collaborative efforts with other historical groups.

Over the last 15 years the Society has also developed a versatile educational program geared towards local schools. We conduct tours for schools from around the county. We go to schools and perform living history programs. Two years ago, with the help of board member Eleanor Chiquoine and the Sauk County Arts, Humanities and Historic Preservation Committee, we developed a traveling, interactive, multi-station, living history program. This program is offered free to all Sauk County schools, public and private. Let me stress this point, the Society expects no compensation for its educational programs. In today’s world of reduced budgets, it is important that we reach educators with a valuable service that works within their daily schedule and limited budgets.

Each year we continue to develop the educational programs. Since January we have conducted class-size tours of the Sauk County Historical Museum; delivered costumed, living-history presentations on the Civil War and Black Hawk War; and worked one-onone with elementary students doing research projects. Looking ahead, in May and June we will be even busier with student programs. More class tours will be coming to the Museum and the traveling multi-station living history program will visit schools in western Sauk County.

The Society is constantly looking for new and innovative ways to reach youth, including high school and university-level students. The internship program with the University of Wisconsin-Baraboo/Sauk

County is in its fourth year and has been immensely successful.

Educational outreach continues to develop and will remain one of the most important programs the Society offers. By reaching youth and passing to them a passion for the past we facilitate historic preservation in its purest form. I think H. E. Cole and the other Society founders would approve. ✒

Funding Needed For Educational Programs

by Beverly Vaillancourt, LaValle, Wis.

The Sauk County Historical Society needs your help. Over the past year the board of directors has chronicled the Society’s efforts to reach beyond the Sauk County Historical Museum’s doors to bring Sauk County’s rich history to the community at large. To that end, the Society has two ongoing educational programs.

The Living History school program allows schoolchildren to experience firsthand what life was like during the 19th century. Children learn about our county’s history by dressing in period costumes, playing games from that period and participating in activities like making butter, writing with quill pens, etc., which give them a taste of what life was like in Sauk County years ago.

The second educational program is the adult history lecture series. Here Executive Director Peter Shrake travels to sites around the county to present on topics like railroading, Ho-Chunk Indian removal, the Spanish influenza epidemic, Badger Ordnance, and much more. These fascinating and well-researched lectures give communities a chance to learn about the highlights of Sauk County’s past. Each lecture con-

cludes with a question-answer session. Appreciative audiences have enthusiastically received each presentation.

The Society would very much like to continue both programs. They are, however, costly in terms of staff time and resources. Together the programs cost almost $10,000 each year. Currently, membership and fundraising dollars maintain the Museum’s basic functions. Though the Society is dedicated to continuing its outreach programs, their cost does constrain the annual budget.

The board is looking for donors to help continue the educational outreach programs. Outreach is an integral part of the Society’s mission. Our educational programs bring the Museum’s richness to communities across the county.

Please consider making a special donation today to support these two educational programs. Mark your check “for education programs.” Your generous donation will help ensure the Society continues its mission to provide educational outreach to Sauk County residents. If you have questions or comments, please contact Peter Shrake at the Museum. ✒

Reedsburg Area Historical Society News

Reedsburg Area Historical Society members and friends met April 20, 2005, at the Reedsburg Rec. Center for its annual meeting. Conrad Steinweg talked about the tradition of placing flags on veterans’ graves.

The group’s annual chicken barbecue will be May 29, 2005, at the Pioneer Log Village Museum grounds east of Reedsburg, Wis., on Hwy. 33. The public is invited. The Pioneer Log Village Museum is open Saturdays and Sundays, 1–4 p.m., beginning on

Memorial Day throughout the summer months.

Other highlights for the Reedsburg Area Historical Society include it celebrating its 40th year during 2005, and hosting the Wisconsin Council For Local History’s Southwestern Regional Convention Aug. 27, 2005, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Voyager Inn in Reedsburg. ✒

Society’s Wish List

by Mary Farrell-Stieve, Society staff assistant

There is barely a day that goes by without someone asking for information that the Sauk County Historical Society does not have, even though the Society’s collections are large and growing daily. We are so grateful people think of the Society when they are cleaning out half-forgotten storage areas. Every piece of information added to the collections is one more piece of Sauk County’s history that is not lost. But like a greedy child, we wish we had more. We also wish we had more of you helping with our work at the Sauk County Historical Museum. There is much to catalog and index, transcribe, care for and clean. If you can help in any way, the Society and its Museum staff would be very grateful.

Things the Society needs to make day-to-day life easier:

1.A volunteer willing to sweep and dust.

2.Sturdy step-stools, one- and two-step varieties.

3.More volunteers who can use a computer and enter data.

4.Volunteers willing to read old journals, diaries and letters, and type the transcripts. We can send you photocopies of the originals.

5.Someone knowledgeable about rain gardens to develop and build one on the Museum grounds. These are just some of the things the Society wishes were in its collections:

1.Topographical maps for townships other than Dellona, Winfield, LaValle and Woodland.

Continued on page 10

“In the end, we will conserve only what we love, We will love only what we understand, We will understand only what we are taught.”

—Barb Dioum

When Sauk County Went Dry

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

Part 1 of 2

Prohibition became a prominent part of America’s lexicon on Jan. 16, 1920, when Congress passed the Volstead Act, which prohibited the sale and manufacture of alcohol in the United States. Taverns and breweries closed or converted to the sale of nonalcoholic beverages and across the nation communities went dry.

However, human nature being what it is, American ingenuity helped fill the void during that trying time. Sauk County did not go wanting when it came to securing an illicit drink.

Ray Palmer, in a 1996 interview, said people would patronize taverns to play cards and pool and, “You could get an [illegal] drink too. They were always careful, but sometimes they got raided.”

Victor Rehr, of Reedsburg, Wis., shared his recollection of those days, in a 1995 interview.

“This is the area most rich in the history of prohibition of anywhere around because it was one of the biggest suppliers of Chicago. There were two large operations—which I was told by my dad who has been gone since 1935—of Al Capone’s operation, which had a 2,000-gallon capacity per day. They rated a still by how much they could evaporate in 24 hours. So both of them were sizable operations.”

A typical moonshine operation consisted of mixing together rye, yeast and sugar that was fermented for several days. The resulting mash was strained through cheesecloth and then poured into a sealed copper kettle to be cooked. A coiled copper pipe came out of the top of the cooker through which the steam circulated and was cooled. The resulting liquor was collected and cooked down a second time as the first mixture resulted in 200-proof alcohol. The final product was around 80-proof, which was ultimately sold to the thirsty public.

Rehr recalled that one of the operations was located on a farm south of the Reedsburg golf course on Hwy 33. Since the moonshiners had to have a front to prevent detection, these men told people they were running a dog farm and raising police dogs. Ray said that one night about 50 of the dogs got out and raided his father’s pig farm, killing all the hogs. He reported the incident to the sheriff and told him whom he suspected. The sheriff said, “You can’t go over there

or there’s going to be shooting. So you have to figure out just how much they were worth, tell them what you told me, that it had to be their dogs.” The sheriff told him where to drive in and not to try to pull anything on them and that he thought he’d get his money.

Rehr continued, “So my dad drove down in there with his old open touring car and he got down in there back across the 40 where the road turned to the south, and there sat a man with a heavy old mackinaw coat and deer rifle across his lap. He was sitting on a nail keg. He [the bootlegger] stopped him, and wanted to know what he wanted. My dad explained it to him. [The man asked] ‘Well are you sure it was our dogs?’ It was quite obvious they were. ‘Well how much were the pigs worth?’

The man said very little but he got out a big roll of currency from his shirt pocket, he wet his thumb and counted it off just what they were worth. Then he stopped, ‘Is that right?’ he asked. I think my dad said that he gave him three extra 20-dollar bills. Then he took his rifle and motioned he should turn around and get the heck out of there.”

Rehr said the liquor was shipped to Chicago in ten-gallon milk cans. There was a false bottom in the can that held nine gallons of hootch and a gallon of milk on top. The operation was terminated a year later when they were raided.

Rehr also recalled that not all local operations were big. “Just across the road from where we lived, there was a family and they had no telephone. Dad would have to deliver phone messages over there.” One hot summer day, his mother went over with a message and found the two of them in the smokehouse. “She saw a little fire in there, and she intended to ask why they would be smoking meat in the middle of the summer. But they just talked a blue streak and quickly got out of the smokehouse and shut the door.” That still had a two-gallon capacity and the output was sold mostly in Rock Springs for about a $1 a quart.

Moonshiners had some cute tricks too, said Rehr. “One guy worked the Sauk County Fair and that was about the only time he made a haul. He’d hang around the barns with a sample bottle of the stuff. He would get somebody off by himself—people like that could smell each other out, I guess—anyway they’d say, ‘I’d

like a drink of cold tea.’ He’d give them a sample drink of his booze. ‘Can I get some of it from you?’ ‘Yeah, you come back and leave your dollar under a brick in the straw, and there’ll be a quart of it there. But don’t dig in there if there’s anybody around. Also, don’t drink it until you get home.’ This guy sold a lot of it. But the buyer got a big surprise on the way home when he’d want to hoist one, he found that he really had cold tea!”

Rehr recalled another funny incident that happened when he was a young boy. “There was a church up in Westfield where highways W and D divide— there’s a little cemetery there yet. They had church in the afternoon and the minister would stop at our place on the way back, at least once a month or so and we’d have a late afternoon lunch. In the beginning of the dust bowl days it was extremely hot, nobody had refrigeration or packed any ice. But we were fortunate, we had a basement 14 feet deep, for potato storage, with a clay floor. My dad would call the neighbors over and entertain them under the shade trees out by the road. Anyway, my dad sent me in to get a bottle of beer. Dad and the neighbor wore straw hats and the minister wore a felt hat. When I went down cellar and got the bottle of beer I dropped it at the top of the long stairs and it bounced all the way down. But it didn’t break because it landed on the clay

floor, and I took it to my dad standing out there in the open. He pulled the cap off that bottle and the beer shot up into the sky until the bottle was dry inside. The comical thing was to see my dad, along with our neighbor, with their straw hats and the minister with his felt hat, held by the rims trying to catch some of that beer on its way back down.”

If any of you have interesting recollections of the Prohibition days, the Sauk County Historical Society would like to hear them. Call the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001.

Look for part two in the August newsletter. ✒

From accounting to consulting, our team of professionals are dedicated and experienced in meeting your needs. We have been offering accounting, auditing, tax and management consulting services for 50 years.

Smith Wegner

FOUNDERS’ DAY PICNIC RESERVATION

Centennial Celebration 1905–2005

Sauk County Historical Society’s Founders’ Day Picnic June 2, 2005, 6 p.m., on the north lawn of the Charles Ringling Estate, 201 8th Street, Baraboo, Wis., celebrating the Society’s 100th anniversary.

Menu: Grilled chicken and steak sandwiches, fresh fruit salad, assorted cheese, potato salad, baked beans and dessert. Price: $15.00 per person.

Reservation and Payment Due: May 25, 2005

Name_____________________________________________________________________________________

Address____________________________________________________________________________________

Telephone #___________________________________

Number attending _______________ x $15.00 per person = _______________

Make check or money order payable to Sauk County Historical Society.

Total Due with reservation

Welcome New and Renewed Members

The following are new Sauk County Historical Society members or members who have renewed between Feb. 1 and April 1, 2005.

PATRON

Town of LaValle, LaValle, Wis.

SPONSOR

Karl and Melanie Burgi, Baraboo, Wis.

Robert Dewel, Baraboo, Wis.

Wayne Hatz, Baraboo, Wis.

Gary Kowalke, Baraboo, Wis.

William Schuette, Reedsburg, Wis.

SUPPORTING

Buddy Huffaker, Baraboo, Wis.

Don and Dirk Topham, Baraboo, Wis.

Joe and Lou Ann Ward, Baraboo, Wis.

FRIEND

Allen County Library, Fort Wayne, Ind.

Marnie Krainik, Waukesha, Wis.

Gaylon, Shirley & Emma Steinhorst, Baraboo, Wis.

Mark Tully and Karen Sorkness, Baraboo Wis.

COUPLE

Lawrence and Patricia Bittermann, Batavia, Ill.

Ron and Janet Brandt, Elgin, Ill.

Ann Burton, Baraboo, Wis.

John and Ann Burton, Baraboo, Wis.

Donald and Wilma Cook, Emporia, Kan.

Jerry and Ellen Dargel, Baraboo, Wis.

James Delacour, Tacoma, Wash.

Cyril and Mary Dickeman, Reedsburg, Wis.

Al and Lola DuBois, Baraboo, Wis.

Elizabeth Dutton, Boalsburg, Pa.

Dan and Sandy Edwards, Baraboo, Wis.

Ken and Mary Grant, Baraboo, Wis.

Charles and Donna Green, Baraboo, Wis.

Harold and Audrey Hein, Baraboo, Wis.

Richard and Linda Jenks, Baraboo, Wis.

Marvin and Barbara Juliar, Evanston, Ill.

Jim and Marilyn Karch, Baraboo, Wis.

Robert and Marjorie Litscher, Baraboo, Wis.

Pete and Char Malinosky, Bloomington, Minn.

Fred Marini, Melrose, Wis.

Henrietta Marini, Baraboo, Wis.

Timothy and Katherine Nolden, Baraboo, Wis.

William and Marian Schreiber, Baraboo, Wis.

Lawrence and Catherine Senger, Baraboo, Wis.

John and Dorothy Sorg, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

John, Miriam and David Thompson, Baraboo, Wis.

Neil and Lucille Thompson, Baraboo, Wis.

Ross Walker and Erwin Uecker, Milwaukee, Wis.

Robert and Louise Yeck, Silver Springs, Md.

INDIVIDUAL

Ronald Bauer, Reedsburg, Wis.

Bob Bowser, Reedsburg Wis.

Sue Brooks, North Freedom, Wis.

Jim Casey, Mauston, Wis.

Tim Cooper, Madison, Wis.

John Fletcher, Baraboo, Wis.

Dick Goddard, North Freedom, Wis.

Diana Jones, Milwaukee, Wis.

Joyce Karg, Baraboo, Wis.

Jacqueline Keister, Baraboo, Wis.

Laura Lynch, North Freedom, Wis.

Jeanette Morris, Baraboo, Wis.

Tonya Osterber, Greendale, Wis.

Marilyn Rohde, Baraboo, Wis.

Alan Scoles, Witchita, Kan.

Jean Smith, Baraboo, Wis.

Mary Ann Van Allen, Green Bay, Wis.

Barbara Vester, Los Angeles, Calif.

Hattie Warner, Baraboo, Wis.

Bobbie Wickus, Baraboo, Wis.

Membership Renewal

The Sauk County Historical Society mails members renewal notices 30 days before memberships expire. If your membership is not renewed within 30 days of its expiration date the Society will remove you from the current mailing list. Watch for your renewal notice in the mail and please return it promptly. Thank you for your continued support.

To join the Sauk County Historical Society, give a gift membership or renew your membership, send a check for the level you desire along with the member’s name, address and telephone number to the Society at PO BOX 651, Baraboo WI 53913-0651.

Individual $15,Couple $25,Friend $35, Supporting $50,Sponsor $100,Patron $250 +, Benefactor $500+

Membership includes a subscription to this quarterly newsletter, free admission to the Sauk County Historical Museum and access to historical archives, membership meetings and events, and an affiliate membership to the Wisconsin Historical Society with its benefits. Annual dues support all aspects of executing the Society’s mission.

S SAUK AUK AUK AUK C C C C OUNTY OUNTY OUNTY OUNTY H H ISTORICAL ISTORICAL ISTORICAL ISTORICAL ISTORICAL S

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

Well, what would H. E. Cole think? The institution he helped start in 1905 is turning 100 years old. It would be interesting to have him back for a while and see what he thought of the county and his beloved Baraboo, Wis. I envision it as something like the Back to the Future movies where the central character gets to see the town square in the 1850s, 1950s and early 21st century. Cole would recognize the old courthouse, which was being built at the time the Society started, and probably marvel at the enormous growth in county government. If he wandered inside he would probably wonder what became of his museum, which used to be housed in the courthouse basement. Someone would tell him that the historical society was now in some old house west of the library. I think he would be impressed to find it was the home of his friends, the Van Ordens. He would probably then go see if his own house was still standing, as it is on Ash Street, where he spent many quiet hours working on his publications, and then he would check out the house on Eighth Street that he rented when the Society held its first meeting. I’m sure he would be happy to see many familiar buildings still standing and marvel at new ones and the growth of the county.

Probably the most surprising revelation would be that after his death, Cole’s newspaper, the Baraboo News, combined with the rival Baraboo Republic to become Baraboo’s only paper, when the city once supported three. Hopefully he would be pleased with the progress the historical society has made and be content knowing that it still carries out its mission that he plainly printed on its early letterhead, “To study, collect, preserve, Sauk County history.” ✒

Upcoming Events

If you have questions please call the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001 or watch local newspapers before each event for information.

Friday, May 13, 7 p.m.—A Century of Collecting, a free public lecture and display of the Sauk County Historical Society’s earliest acquisitions to highlight the Society’s centennial, at the Sauk County Historical Museum.

Wednesday, May 25—Reservations due for the Founders’ Day Picnic.

Sunday, May 29—Reedsburg Historical Society annual chicken barbecue at the Pioneer Log Village grounds east of Reedsburg on Hwy. 33. The public is invited.

Thursday, June 2, 6 p.m.—Founders’ Day Picnic, the Sauk County Historical Society’s annual summer picnic to commemorate the Society’s first meeting on this date in 1905. A program will highlight the founding members and the forces behind the Society’s formation.

Saturday, June 18, 6 p.m.—Century Dinner with the Van Ordens. Lucas Schyler Van Orden IV and his wife, Nadia, will host a lavish multi-course Victorian dinner prepared from an 1896 menu and served in the elegant 1904 dining room of the Jacob Van Orden mansion. Limited seating, reservations required, $125.00 per person.

Sunday, June 19, 12 p.m.—The Harrisburgers’ fundraising pork chop/chicken dinner at the Harrisburg school site (Highway B west of Sauk City).

Thursday, July 21, 6 p.m.—A centennial celebration of the Sauk County courthouse on the courthouse lawn including opening the official 1905 cornerstone time capsule, an ice cream social and a special presentation by Concerts on the Square.

REEDSBURG

300 Alexander Ave.

Reedsburg WI 53959 608-524-4386

web site http://matcmadison.edu/reedsburg/

Saturday and Sunday, August 6–7—Great Sauk County History Hunt, a scavenger hunt of Sauk County’s historic sites, for prize drawings.

Saturday, Aug. 27, 8:30 a.m.—Wisconsin Council For Local History’s Southwestern Regional Convention, Voyager Inn, Reedsburg, Wis., hosted by the Reedsburg Area Historical Society.

Society Wish List, continued

2.Any historic photos (people should be identified) to either add to the collection or digitally scan and return. We especially need rural images and any photos of places in the eastern section of the county.

3.School yearbooks, class lists, etc. (grade-school class lists are especially needed for city schools).

4.Stories of your childhood in Sauk County, tape recorded, written, typed, all are welcome

5.Historical information on clubs and organizations.

6.Journals and scrapbooks containing local history information.

7.Plat books (contact us to see what we have).

8.Business-related information about past businesses, especially annual reports, brochures and advertising.

9.Remembrances of the Sears and Roebuck Pig Project.

10.Church-related history. ✒

Museum Gift Shop

A sampling of merchandise available at the Sauk County Historical Museum. For a complete list visit www.saukcounty.com/schs. Members get discounted prices on some items.

Books:

*Lake Delton: An Illustrated History..................$20.00

*Images of America: Baraboo.............................$20.00

*A Naturalist’s Journey.......................................$20.00

*Ghost Village of White Mound–Billytown.......$15.00

*Park Hall: A Symbol of Freedom in America...$20.00

*Portage: A Sesquicentennial History.................$35.00

*Sauk County Iron Mining....................................$3.00

*Stagecoach and Tavern Tales.............................$20.00

*Reedsburg Historic Postcards............................$20.00

Posters: Chief Blackhawk.................................................$10.00

1886 map of Baraboo............................................$5.00

Honey Creek-Ragatz Church...............................$25.00

Pecatonica Battleground......................................$10.00

*Notecards...........................................................$10.00

* Indicates a new addition to the collection.

August 2005

Old Sauk Trails

The newsletter of the Sauk County Historical Society Celebrating Its Centennial 1905–2005

In Memory Of Carol Sorg

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

The loss of friends and loved ones is difficult under any circumstances. In June the Sauk County Historical Society lost someone who was particularly special. Carol Sorg, Baraboo, Wis., passed away quite suddenly on June 21, and her death affected us deeply. Carol was an integral part of the Society and was a good friend. She contributed financially, materially and personally to nearly every aspect of the Society’s operations. Frankly it is impossible to overstate her role and impact on our organization and on local history in Sauk County.

Her knowledge of county history, and of people, was profound. She was active not only as a Society member, but also in the Badger History Group (BHG), the Sauk County Arts, Humanities and Historical Preservation Committee, and the Philanthropic Educational Order. I cannot tell you how many meetings she attended on behalf of the Society, the BHG, or the Arts and Humanities Committee.

She was a fixture at the Sauk County Historical Museum, often coming in daily. She attended nearly every public event. Her regular volunteer hours were on Thursday. She would come in around 11:00 a.m. to work on research projects. Each weekly visit was initiated with a sit down between Carol and I where we would discuss endless subjects ranging from county history, Society business, the Badger Army Ammunition Plant or just personal news.

Carol believed in giving. Many of the local history books in Sauk County’s libraries and schools are there because of Carol. She never sought accolades for her philanthropy; she, in fact, discouraged it. Carol was modest to the core.

When she spoke it was always after careful consideration, and what she said was always important. She exuded a grace and a class that is too rare these days. There are many things I will miss about Carol—her kindness, generosity, humor—but the one thing I will miss the most is the conversations. Sauk County was a better place because of her, and it will be a different place now that she is gone. ✒

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;” Ecclesiastes 3: 1–2.

As the summer draws to a close the words of the scripture seem applicable. It has been quite a summer for the Sauk County Historical Society. As we gathered on June 2, the weather was perfect and the annual summer picnic was a great success marking the birth of the Society 100 years ago. The present board of directors met in the very house where the Society had its first meeting. While little official business was conducted, each board member took turns describing his and her history and feelings about the Society. It was a unique bonding experience. As the board posed for a photograph on the steps of the home, it would have been hard to fathom that one of our members would not be with us much longer.

Board member Carol Sorg’s death on June 21, 2005 was a tremendous loss and one that will take some time to adjust to. I was honored to have known her and it was always a pleasure to talk with her and

Carol Sorg loved to dress up for special Sauk County Historical Society functions.

receive advice. Carol’s hard work and dedication will live on in many ways and manifested itself shortly after her death at the Cornerstone Event for the Sauk County Courthouse Centennial, on which she worked diligently. As we look toward the next 100 years for the Society, let’s resolve to honor Carol’s memory and those before her who worked so diligently to collect, preserve and share Sauk County’s unique history. That is one of the best ways to honor their lives. ✒

Storm Fells Tree Onto Museum

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

The terrible wind and thunderstorm that ripped through Baraboo, Wis., on July 25, 2005 and caused so much damage to many homes also left its mark on the Van Orden mansion, home to the Sauk County Historical Museum. The basswood tree on the northeast corner of the front lawn snapped in half and fell against the corner of the building.

The Sauk County Historical Society had to contact several tree

removal services before finding one willing to undertake the risky job of removing the 100-year-old tree off the building. The Society is extremely fortunate, however, that very little damage appears to have been done. None of the windows in the building were broken; there is no visible water damage found inside the building and no major structural damage.

Upon completing the work, the contractor commented that he sees few homes today that can withstand the force of a tree that size without incurring damage. This is a testament to the soundness of the mansion’s construction. ✒

It’s A Boy!

On July 10, 2005 at 3:21 a.m. in the morning, Sauk County Historical Society Executive Director Peter Shrake and his wife, Kim, welcomed Ethan

Meyer Shrake into this world. He was 8.8 pounds and declared by the doctors to be very healthy. Since that time he has shown considerable talent for rearranging his mom’s and dad’s sleep schedule. Both Kim and Peter would like to extend their most heartfelt thanks to everyone in the Society who sent cards, gifts or just stopped by for a visit. ✒

Bussan New Board Member

At its August 2005 meeting, the Sauk County Historical Society board of directors appointed Natalie Bussan of Baraboo, Wis., to fill Carol Sorg’s term. Natalie attended Cuba City High School, and the University of Wisconsin-Platteville where she received a political science degree. She received her law degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, graduating in 2000. She came to Cross, Jenks, Mercer and Maffei of Baraboo, where she has been a partner since 2004. Her practice focuses on litigation (business and insurance defense) and municipal law. She is married to Chad Handee, assistant corporation council for Sauk County. They have a dog, Bartley. Natalie enjoys outdoor activities, home brewing and renovating their home on Third Street in Baraboo. The board of directors welcomes Natalie. ✒

Cemetery Walk Oct. 9

The Sauk County Historical Society will host a cemetery walk Oct. 9, 2005 at 2 p.m. at Walnut Hill Cemetery in Baraboo, Wis. Some of the interesting markers, monuments and persons of the cemetery will be discussed. Come and find out if the Angle family obelisk is really set at an angle, and hear about fugitive slave, John Duckins, who lived in Baraboo after escaping from the South. The tour will last about an hour. The rain date will be the following Sunday. ✒

The 100-year-old fallen basswood tree was removed from the Sauk County Historical Museum grounds this summer.

Picnic Commemorated Society’s Centennial

On a perfect summer evening in June the Sauk County Historical Society celebrated its 100th anniversary with its annual summer picnic, specially entitled Founders’ Day Picnic, on the north lawn of the Charles Ringling estate at 201 Eighth Street in Baraboo, Wis., which was graciously opened by Sally Clayton-Jones, the present estate owner. The festivities started with a commemorative board of directors meeting held just a few doors down the street at the home of Timothy Tegge, 121 Eighth Street, where the Society held its first meeting on June 2, 1905. After posing for a photograph on the home’s porch, the board joined other Society members on the lawn for a delicious meal accompanied by music by Gretchen Roltgen. Society President Paul Wolter provided the keynote address detailing the Society’s history and

how it started. State Representative “Doc” Hines and Tom McKay from the Office of Local History at the State Historical Society congratulated the Society. ✒

Lecture And Dinner Celebrated Centennial

As part of the Sauk County Historical Society’s 2005 centennial celebration, Executive Director Peter Shrake hosted A Century of Collecting lecture May 13, 2005 highlighting some of the special artifacts in the Society’s collections. Over 25 people attended as Shrake showcased items such as a whale oil lamp owned by William Canfield, and a linsey-woolsey Trapunto quilt dating to the late 18th century.

The June 18, 2005 century dinner with special hosts Lucas Schuyler Van Orden IV and his wife, Nadia Van Orden, also commemorated the Society’s centennial. The ten-course Victorian dinner was served to 12 guests in the circa-1903 Van Orden mansion dining room. Elite Catering of Baraboo, Wis., prepared the meal, and served it out of the mansion’s kitchen. ✒

Circus Showman’s Mansion Showcased

The 2004–2005 Sauk County Historical Society board of directors at its 100th anniversary meeting. L–R: Front, center: Beverly Vaillancourt; Society President, Paul Wolter; Mark Graupman. Rear, around arc: Bill Schuette; Executive Director, Peter Shrake; Eleanor Chiquoine; Mona Larsen; Bob Brown; Pam Krainik; Joan Fordham; Carol Sorg. Not shown: John Alt and John Geoghegan.

Old Sauk Trails • August 2005

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails quarterly. Editor: Nichelle Martin.

The Society maintains the Sauk County Historical Museum , a three-story, 14-room mansion and repository of local history. Open year-round, Tuesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.

Sauk County Historical Society and Museum 531 Fourth Ave. • PO BOX 651• Baraboo WI 53913 Tele: 608-356-1001 • E-mail: history@saukcounty.com

Web site: www.saukcounty.com/schs

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

The Sauk County Historical Society helped show the Al. Ringling mansion at 623 Broadway, Baraboo, Wis., now the Baraboo Elks Club (BPOE), to interested visitors on the day of the Great Circus Parade, June 25, 2005. The tours were well received and were used to highlight the work the Elks have put into restoring the building. Guests were shown two floors of the mansion including the maids’ quarters. The mansion is celebrating a centennial this year because its construction commenced Aug. 2, 1905. ✒

Courthouse Centennial, Time

Capsule Opening

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

Society Exhibited At County Fair

For over a year a special committee comprised of Sauk County Historical Society members, Sauk County supervisors and county staff have been planning a series of celebrations marking the Sauk County Courthouse centennial. These efforts began to show fruit on July 21, 2005 when a celebration on the courthouse square opened the courthouse cornerstone. Found inside was the time capsule left by the 1905 county board of supervisors. The capsule’s contents were then displayed. Several hundred spectators stood in line to view the newspapers, coins and other materials inside. The time capsule contents will travel the county and be on display at many of the county’s public libraries.

New Old Fashioned Day Display

Inspecting

The Quartzite Brass Quintet, led by Jerry Stitch, opened the event by playing select tunes from the turn of the century. County Board Chair William Wenzel, Judge James Evenson, City Alderman Sean McNevin and Society President Paul Wolter gave presentations. An ice cream social followed. WISC-TV’s Steve Van Dinter attended and interviewed local historian Bob Dewel. Then the First Brigade Civil War Band entertained until dusk.

The cornerstone opening is a part of a string of commemorative events lasting through the summer of 2006. Future projects for the committee include publishing a booklet on the courthouse history, a permanent historical exhibit on the second floor of the courthouse and a special closing event scheduled for August 2006. Details on these projects will be posted in future newsletters and in the local newspapers. ✒

Visitors to Baraboo’s Old Fashioned Day on July 30, 2005 encountered a new display constructed by the Sauk County Historical Society showing downtown Baraboo in historic images from as early as 1872. The Society also had a book table and hands-on exhibits for people to touch.

Harrisburg School Group Sponsors Fund Raiser

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

On June 19, 2005 the Harrisburgers, an affiliate group of the Sauk County Historical Society, held a fundraising pork chop and chicken picnic on the grounds of its old schoolhouse. The event was a smashing success. Over 100 people attended. The funds raised at the event will help continue improvements to the property.

The group has made considerable progress restoring the building. This spring a new foundation was laid, electricity was installed and landscaping was done around the building. Future projects include

The Sauk County Historical Society exhibited at the 2005 Sauk County Fair in Baraboo, Wis., July 13–17. Visitors saw a 1906 county plat map and purchased books and videos.

the contents of the 1905 Sauk County Courthouse cornerstone time capsule are L–R: Art Carlson, Jerry Stitch, Paul Wolter and Kathy Schauf.

repairing and restoring the windows and installing new doors. The Harrisburg Schoolhouse can be found on County Hwy. B in Troy Township, west of Sauk City, Wis., and just south of Black Hawk. ✒

History Hunt Postponed

The Sauk County Historical Society’s Great Sauk County History Hunt previously scheduled for August 6 and 7, 2005 to help celebrate the centennial year was postponed due to various circumstances. An atypically busy summer schedule combined with several acts of Mother Nature has kept things hopping for the Society. It is hoped that the history hunt will be held next year. ✒

Reedsburg Area Historical Society Celebrates 40 Years

In 1965 several historically minded individuals met in the Ideal Barbershops in Reedsburg, Wis., to discuss forming a local historical society. The result was the Pioneer Log Village and Museum, located just over two miles east of Reedsburg on Hwy 33/23, on a 52-acre site.

Over the years numerous log buildings have been added to the grounds, the first being donated in 1968. Currently the Museum consists of three buildings housing historic artifacts, five log homes, a blacksmith shop, church and a country schoolhouse. Many of the buildings house displays depicting life during pioneer times. Antique machinery is also housed at the Museum for the public to view.

The Reedsburg Area Historical Society sponsors an annual chicken barbeque on Memorial Day weekend to raise funds. Hundreds of children visit the Museum each year as part of their school trip. The Log Village Museum is open on weekends during the summer months where a staff of volunteers conducts tours of the grounds. ✒

Badger History Group News

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

Like the Sauk County Historical Society, the Badger History Group (BHG) has been deeply affected by the loss of Carol Sorg. Carol was BHG’s treasurer, researcher and all-around supporter of its efforts. She was also a founding member. She will leave a hole that will be impossible to fill. The BHG, however, has made progress on several of its projects.

As always it is collecting archival material on the Badger Ordnance Works (BOW), now known as the Badger Army Ammunition Plant (BAAP), and has amassed a growing collection of documents, photographs and artifacts. Currently the group is focused on producing a video history of Badger Village. The BHG is cooperating with the University of WisconsinBaraboo/Sauk County on this project.

The BHG meets the second Wednesday of every month at 1:30 p.m. in building 200 of the Badger Army Ammunition Plant. It is a small group and always needs new members. If you are interested in becoming involved in the Badger History Group, or if you have memorabilia, or memories of your time at the plant, please call me at 608-356-1001. ✒

Upcoming 2005 Events

If you have questions please call the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001 or watch local newspapers before each event for information.

Sunday, October 9, 2 p.m.—Cemetery walk at Walnut Hill Cemetery in Baraboo, Wis.

October 27—Sauk County Historical Society Annual Fall Banquet and Business Meeting. Further details on location and menu will be mailed to members.

November 19—Holiday of Lights Parade, Baraboo, Wis.

November 25—100th anniversary of the first Sauk County Historical Society annual meeting.

December 10—Victorian Christmas Open House at the Sauk County Historical Museum.

Society’s Wish List

by Mary Farrell-Stieve, Society staff assistant

Thank you, so many of you responded to the Sauk County Historical Society’s wish list in the last issue. We are reprinting the list here with a few additions because while the response has been great, so much greater is the need.

We need volunteers! Can anyone spare a few minutes each week to photocopy? We now have several eager transcribers and data entry volunteers and the bottleneck is getting information into their hands. If you can spare just a short time, but want to perform a valuable service, come in and we will get you started photocopying letters, early articles, scrapbooks and other interesting things.

Do you have letters written to or by soldiers? We are beginning an exciting project to transcribe all our war correspondence and post it on the Society’s Web site. If you have letters, please consider transcribing them and e-mailing them to us. A scan or a good photocopy of the original would be very much appreciated, too. As we get this project ready for posting we will also ask for photographs of those who wrote home and a short biography of their lives. If you can contribute in any way, let us know.

Things the Society needs to make day-to-day life easier:

1.A volunteer willing to sweep and dust.

2.Sturdy step-stools, one- and two-step varieties.

3.More volunteers who can use a computer and enter data!

4.Volunteers willing to create indexes of books and scrapbooks and type the indexes.

5.Someone knowledgeable about rain gardens to develop and build one on the Sauk County Historical Museum grounds.

These are just some of the things the Society wishes were in its collections:

1.Topographical maps for townships other than Dellona, Winfield, LaValle and Woodland.

2.Any historic photos (people should be identified) to either add to the collection or digitally scan and return. We especially need rural images and any photos of places in the eastern section of the county.

3.School yearbooks, class lists, etc. (grade-school class lists are especially needed for city schools).

4.Stories of your childhood in Sauk County, tape recorded, written, typed, all are welcome.

5.Historical information on clubs and organizations.

6.Journals and scrapbooks containing local history information.

7.Plat books (contact us to see what we have).

8.Business-related information about past businesses, especially annual reports, brochures and advertising.

9.Remembrances of the Sears and Roebuck Pig Project.

10.Church-related history. ✒

Does The Society Own A Stradivarius?

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

I recently noticed an old violin placed in the new parlor display at the Sauk County Historical Museum. Wondering how old it was, I got a flashlight and looked inside through the f-holes. Much to my surprise, I was shocked to see the following inscription: “Antonius Stradivarius Cremonensis Faciebat Anno 1719”! Could it be? What are the odds? Could some benefactor have donated a violin to the Sauk County Historical Society without knowing its true origin? An original Stradivarius violin would be worth millions!

Antonio Stradivari was born in 1644 and ran an instrument-making shop in the village of Cremona, Italy. There he produced some of the world’s most perfect violins, which today’s professionals still seek more than 250 years after their debut. It is said the “magical” sound produced by a Stradivarius is a product of the type of wood used in construction, the varnish applied to the instrument and the talented hand of a master carver.

Knowing little about violins, I did some research and learned that not all instruments with a Stradivarius label inside were produced in the 16th century. According to the Smithsonian, thousands of copies were produced in the 19th and 20th centuries, imitating the great masters of Italy. It was not uncommon for these cheap reproductions to include a label inside that indicated it was modeled on the design of a

Continued on page 10.

When Sauk County Went Dry

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

Part 2 of 2

As mentioned in the previous article, prohibition became law in 1920 when Congress passed the Volstead Act, which prohibited the manufacture and sale of liquor in the United States.

John Geoghegan of Baraboo, Wis., was a young boy during prohibition, and in a recent interview he remembered those days and their stories.

“They had all kinds of guys around that were peddling [illegal booze].” He recalled that the Olympia Candy Kitchen (current location of the Corner Drug in Baraboo, Wis.), was run by a guy named John Z____. “John was a real good guy, he made excellent candy,” noted Geoghegan. “There was always somebody going in and out of there, and they weren’t all buying candy!”

There were way stations located in various parts of Sauk County where shipments were held, and John recalled one that was located where the Co-op Country Partners service station is today, on the corner of Highways 12 and 33.

“There was a guy by the name of P____ that lived there, and [the bootleggers] shot him. He may have been stealing from them. They never did find out for sure who did it. It was a botched job. Cliff LaMar was the district attorney, and Red Wyatt was the city policeman, and they and a whole bunch of them went out there and determined that ‘Yup, P____’s dead!’. And then they all went back to town, I don’t know what for, [it may have been] for breakfast, because it was early. And when they came back, P____ [and his] car were gone! They looked all over the country, and I think they found him off to the west, over by the river somewhere. They tried to run him in the river, but they didn’t make it. It was a comedy of errors.”

Al Burmester, who ran Burmester’s Grocery in Loganville, Wis., during prohibition, remembered, in a 1960s interview, when the tavern next door was run by Hank L____. Hank’s kitchen door was located under Al’s bedroom window and many nights he would be awakened by voices coming from below.

Hank and a moonshiner would be whispering loudly as they made a deal for so many barrels or kegs of shine. The kegs were buried in an icehouse behind the tavern and one would be brought in only as it was needed. One night, Al recalled, the moonshiner had an exceptionally good batch and let Hank sample it. It must have been to his liking because he bought 10 kegs at $25 apiece.

Several days later, Hank brought in one of the new barrels and tapped it. His yell could be heard over half the town when he discovered it was filled with water! The moonshiner had one good barrel filled with the real stuff, which Hank had sampled. Of course, he couldn’t complain to the cops or anybody else about his misfortune.

Loganville historian, Bill Thies, recalled the following incident in a 1980 interview. There were several bands in Loganville during the prohibition years. One of them was the Village Marching Band. Their uniforms looked very much like the police uniforms of the day, except for the caps. One time the band went somewhere to march in a parade and on the way back to Loganville, they became a bit thirsty so they stopped at a place they knew to be a “Speakeasy”. The cars all stopped and the entire band got out—still in their uniforms—and walked to the door and knocked. After rapping several times, a voice from inside called out, “Wait a minute!” Soon they heard the sound of bottles breaking and liquid running down the drain. Finally, the owner opened the door and the band walked in, only to be greeted by a stunned silence, which soon turned to anger.

It seems the lookout had spotted the uniforms and thinking they were about to be raided, sounded the alarm. The owner and patrons reacted promptly and destroyed the evidence. Needless to say, the band decided it wasn’t that thirsty after all, and left quickly.

Prohibition finally ended when Congress repealed the Volstead Act in December 1933, and Sauk County residents could again whet their whistles with the real stuff. If you have interesting recollections of prohibition days, we would like to hear them. Call the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001. ✒

The Olympia Candy Kitchen of Baraboo, Wis., was suspected of selling illegal liquor during prohibition.

Welcome New and Renewed Members

The following are new Sauk County Historical Society members or members who have renewed between May 1 and July 31, 2005.

LIFETIME MEMBERS

Sally Clayton-Jones, Baraboo, Wis.

Forrest Hartmann, Baraboo, Wis.

Donald Kindschi, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Sharon and George McArthur, Baraboo, Wis.

Paul Meyer, Sauk City, Wis.

Ken Nelson, Baraboo, Wis.

Scott Pauley, Baraboo, Wis.

Lucas Van Orden, Nashville, Tenn.

BENEFACTOR

John and Elizabeth Davenport, Minnetonkan, Minn.

Brett Topham, Baraboo, Wis.

PATRON

Edwin Bodendein, LaValle, Wis.

SPONSOR

Michael and Debbie Althen, Baraboo, Wis.

David and Sherry Baldwin, Baraboo, Wis.

William and Gretchen Dresen, Baraboo, Wis.

Joan Fordham, Baraboo, Wis.

Mike and Sue Johnson, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Joan Litscher, Baraboo, Wis.

John and Rikki McNabb, Baraboo, Wis.

Kenneth Whitcomb, Honolulu, Hawaii

Robin Whyte, Baraboo, Wis.

SUPPORTING

John and Jean Alt, Baraboo, Wis.

Steve and Eleanor Chiquoine, Reedsburg, Wis.

Gary Cummings, Baraboo, Wis.

Pete Filus, Baraboo, Wis.

Dean and Jean Friday, Austin, Texas

Paul and Janet Fritsch, Baraboo, Wis.

Bryant Hazard, Baraboo, Wis.

Peter Kolar, North Freedom, Wis.

Ken and Esther Lange, Baraboo, Wis.

Larry and Keri McCoy, Baraboo, Wis.

Bart and Char Olson, Merrimac, Wis.

August and Beverley Pieper, Madison, Wis.

Helen SaLoutos, Baraboo, Wis.

Tim and Susan Schuebel, Baraboo, Wis.

David and Marcia Swanson, Baraboo, Wis.

Mark and Jo Ellen Waddell, Baraboo, Wis.

FRIEND

Susan Bock, Cincinnati, Ohio

Gene and Karen Filus, Baraboo, Wis.

Fred and Mary Hoffmeister, Whitewater, Wis.

Mike and Sandi Holt, Baraboo, Wis.

Carol Hulterstrum, Baraboo, Wis.

Jan and Fawn Masalewicz, Waukesha, Wis.

Ruth Pischke, Baraboo, Wis.

Alice Popp, Baraboo, Wis.

Audrey Wendt, Baraboo, Wis.

COUPLE

Sandra Alexander, Hot Springs, Ark.

Keith and Virginia Anderson, Baraboo, Wis.

Phil Anderson, Baraboo, Wis.

Donald Aucutt, Sauk City, Wis.

Dianne and David Bachmann, Wheeling, Ill.

Tom and Roberta Barrix, Baraboo, Wis.

Ethan and Mae-Sallee Beals, Shoreline, Wash.

Harland and Darleen Bechmann, Baraboo, Wis.

Gerald Belter, Florence, Ariz.

Gib, Gail and Thomas Bird, Baraboo, Wis.

Dean and Judy Brice, Baraboo, Wis.

Leo and Joyce Bronkalla, Baraboo, Wis.

Robert and Patti Brown, Merrimac, Wis.

Beverly and Pat Cabbage, Spokane, Wash.

Kathy Conger, Chicago, Ill.

Ben and Fran Conway, Loves Park, Ill.

Jerry and Nel Corton, Baraboo, Wis.

Fred and Anita Dahlinger, Baraboo, Wis.

James and Marsha Davis, Reedsburg, Wis.

Judy and Paul DeJong, Ames, Iowa

Albert and Nita Dippel, Baraboo, Wis.

Erik and Anne Emerson, Baraboo, Wis.

David and Nijole Etzwiler, Baraboo, Wis.

Michael and Barbara Goc, Friendship, Wis.

Richard and Debra Godwin, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

John Henley, Sauk City, Wis.

Deanna and Anne Horjus, Baraboo, Wis.

Wayne and Marty Johansen, Baraboo, Wis.

Janet and Clair Keylock, Baraboo, Wis.

Jerry and Alice Kindschi, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Jeanne and Edward Kurtz, Baraboo, Wis.

Roger LaMasney, Baraboo, Wis.

ISTORICAL ISTORICAL S S S S SOCIETY OCIETY OCIETY M M M M M EMBERSHIP EMBERSHIP

To join the Sauk County Historical Society, give a gift membership or renew your membership, send a check for the level you desire along with the member’s name, address and telephone number to the Society at PO BOX 651, Baraboo WI 53913-0651.

Individual $15,Couple $25,Friend $35, Supporting $50,Sponsor $100,Patron $250, Benefactor $500,Lifetime

Membership includes a subscription to this quarterly newsletter, free admission to the Sauk County Historical Museum and access to historical archives, membership meetings and events, and an affiliate membership to the Wisconsin Historical Society with its benefits. Annual dues support all aspects of executing the Society’s mission.

Robert and Marjorie Litscher, Baraboo, Wis.

Ralph and Sharon Malec, Madison, Wis.

Charles and Roberta Mayer, Lyndon Station, Wis.

Eleanor Mede, Normal, Ill.

Harvey and Carol Myers, Reedsburg, Wis.

Dick Nold, Oronoco, Minn.

Craig and Mim Olsen, Baraboo, Wis.

Glenn and Marilyn Quale, Baraboo, Wis.

Michael and Rebecca Rundio, Baraboo, Wis.

Steve and Libby Rundio, Baraboo, Wis.

Patricia Schuknecht, Lodi, Wis.

Gary and Shirlee Smith, Leesburg, Fla.

Harold and Sharon Steiger, Beach Park, Ill.

Harland and Patricia Steinhorst, LaValle, Wis.

Jerry and Carol Stich, Baraboo, Wis.

Frank and Colleen Terbilcox, Baraboo, Wis.

Paul and Judy Washam, Baraboo, Wis.

Justin Wright, Baraboo, Wis.

John and Tonia Young, Baraboo, Wis.

INDIVIDUAL

Leta Ambler, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

William Arndt, Lexington, Ky.

Dolores Bahr, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Patricia Beesley, Keizer, Ore.

Leota Bellows, Baraboo, Wis.

Janet Bjornsen, Baraboo, Wis.

William Brahney, Auburn, N.Y.

Craig Caflisch, Baraboo, Wis.

William Cronon, Madison, Wis.

Sylvia Epstein, Middleton, Wis.

HARRISBURG SCHOOL RESTORATION

We need your help!

Archives ~ Artifacts ~ Funds ~ Helping Hands

If you can help, please call me.

John Sorg 608-643-5480

Susi Fathauer, Phoenix, Ariz.

Sharen Grimsley, Pacolet, S.S.

Nancy Gomez, Del Rio, Texas

Ben Hilmer, Roscoe, Ill.

Diana Hofman, Murrieta, Calif.

Brenda Holloway, Baraboo, Wis.

Gordon Hungerford, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Beth Johnson, Woodstock, Ill.

Arlene Jordan, Baraboo, Wis.

Kathy LaMasney, Baraboo, Wis.

Karin Lanphear, Florence, Ariz.

Barbara Larsen, Sister Bay, Wis.

Nancy Leeming, Ithaca, N.Y.

Sandy Maul, Billings, Mont.

Loretta McCarthy, Richland Center, Wis.

Tom McCarthy, Traverse City, Mich.

John McKnight, Evanston, Ill.

Phyllis Miller, Reedsburg, Wis.

Barb Naidl, Baraboo, Wis.

Tessie Nolan, The Woodlands, Texas

Catharine Ostlind, Merrimac, Wis.

Janet Pearson, Baraboo, Wis.

Kay Prosser, Baraboo, Wis.

John Reardon, Naperville, Ill.

Paula Rice, Muskegon, Mich.

Louise Rich, Baraboo, Wis.

Bernice Ringelstetter, Sun Prairie, Wis.

Vera Scoles, Baraboo, Wis.

Gene Setwyn, Reedsburg, Wis.

Neal Simons, Minneapolis, Minn.

Sandra Stiemke, Loganville, Wis.

Helen Stieve, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Christine Stolz, LaCrosse, Wis.

Laurel Talbot, Appleton City, Mo.

Susan Telkamp, Elkton, S.D.

Madeline Terry, Baraboo, Wis.

Beverly Vareka, Two Rivers, Wis.

Sharon Weisensel, Fox Lake, Wis.

Gloria Weth, Rotunda West, Fla.

Paul Young, Baraboo, Wis.

Thank you for your continued support.

AVAILABLE TO RENT

One-bedroom efficiency apartment with 322 square feet of living area at the Anne Elizabeth Reese

Memorial Home, 125 9th Street, Baraboo WI 53913. Newly re-modeled in 2004–2005. $1,000 per month.

Qualifications: Single woman at least age 55.

Preference given to widows of Episcopal clergymen.

Physician must certify ability to care for self and room.

Included: Heat and electricity, refrigerator and one cooked meal served at noon.

Contact: Virginia L. Davis, manager, at 608-356-3577

Continued from page 6. Stradivarius. It was a tribute to the great master and not meant to deceive. Purchasers of these instruments knew exactly what they were buying. But the Smithsonian article also indicated that such a label might be authentic. Only an expert examination could determine its true provenance.

I contacted an expert instrument dealer in Milwaukee, a man who the Smithsonian article had recommended. The expert advised, “…your violin appears to be a common factory, commercial German instrument from circa 1900.” He went on to write, “They are found in Sears & Roebuck, Montgomery Wards mail order catalogs from that era, costing $1.50 to $5.00.” (Between $30 and $90 in today’s currency).

So my foray into the world of musical instruments ended in disappointment. Oh, well, the Society was rich for a day. We thought we owned a violin, but several days later it turned out to be just a fiddle.

There was a small silver lining however. Our violin has an estimated value of between $300 and $500, quite an appreciation over the past century. ✒

Museum Gift Shop

A sampling of merchandise available at the Sauk County Historical Museum. For a complete list visit www.saukcounty.com/schs. Members get discounted prices on some items.

Books:

*All Bottled Up...................................................$30.00

*Historic Homes of Prairie du Sac......................$18.00

*Images of America: Baraboo.............................$20.00

*Lives Lived Here...............................................$20.00

*The Long Road Back...........................................$3.00

*A Naturalist’s Journey.......................................$20.00

*A Paradise Lost: Sauk Prairie Remembered.......$8.00

Posters: Bad Axe Battleground...........................................$8.00

War Meeting..........................................................$3.00

Notecards............................................................... $5.00

Ornament:

*Van Orden mansion ornament...........................$21.00

*Van Orden mansion ornament with stand.........$27.00

* Indicates a new addition to the collection.

November 2005

Old Sauk Trails

The newsletter of the Sauk County Historical Society Celebrating Its Centennial 1905–2005

Victorian Christmas Open House Dec. 10

Live music, carriage rides and decorated trees will highlight the Sauk County Historical Society’s sixth annual Victorian Christmas open house at the Sauk County Historical Museum Dec. 10, 2005, from 12–8 p.m. The Van Orden mansion, which houses the Museum, will be dressed in evergreen and adorned with numerous Christmas trees decorated by area businesses and residents: Amber Moon, Crazy Daisy, Bekah Kate’s, By Boots, The Ireland Shop and David Saloutos, as well as Society volunteers. New this year will be a tree recreated from a 1904 photograph that recently surfaced. Carriage rides from 2–4 p.m. will add a nostalgic feel to the event and the dining room will be filled with holiday goodies, anchored by a gingerbread recreation of the House of Seven Gables. A Christmas raffle will give guests the chance to win a gingerbread house as well as other donated items. Live music will enhance the experience as guests take time to remember the spirit of Christmas past. The Society invites you to make the open house part of your holiday activities and help the Society celebrate its centennial with a Christmas to remember. ✒

Seven Gables Gingerbread House

Sauk County Historical Society volunteers in cooperation with Salecker’s Baker’s Dozen Bakery of Baraboo, Wis., are busy making this year’s gingerbread houses that will be replicas of the House of

Seven Gables, at 215 Sixth Street in Baraboo. The house was built in 1860 by banker Terrell Thomas and is currently owned by Ralph and Pam Krainik. Coincidentally, the house was designed in the Carpenter Gothic style with scroll-cut wood ornamentation that is often referred to as gingerbread. Each gingerbread house will have over 70 pieces, and one will be raffled at the Society’s annual Victorian Christmas open house Dec. 10, 2005.

2005 Annual Banquet Highlights

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

The Sauk County Historical Society held its annual fall meeting and banquet Oct. 27, 2005 at the Reedsburg Country Club, with the theme Celebrating 100 Years, Anticipating 100 More.

After a delicious dinner, members approved the secretary’s and treasurer’s reports. Re-elected to the board of directors for another three years were Mona Larsen and Pam Krainik of Baraboo, and Bob Brown of Merrimac. Also elected was Sue Teska of Baraboo, to replace retiring board member John Alt.

The Society presented its 2005 Historic Preservation award to Kurt and Melissa Riem for restoring their home at 820 Ash Street, Baraboo. An Honors Plaque was unveiled during the meeting. It recognizes individuals, groups and organizations who have

Accepting the Sauk County Historical Society’s 2005 Historic Preservation Award from Society President Paul Wolter, left, were Melissa and Kurt Riem.

L–R: Paul Wolter, Ralph and Pam Krainik, Mona Larsen.

generously supported the Society during the past five years. The plaque will be permanently displayed in the vestibule of the Van Orden mansion on Fourth Avenue, which houses the Sauk County Historical Museum.

Society President Paul Wolter presented a slide show of Society highlights from the past year. He also spoke of accomplishments during the past 100 years, and the hope for the next 100.

Teska Elected To Board

At its Oct. 27, 2005 annual meeting, Sauk County Historical Society members elected Sue Teska of Baraboo, Wis., to its board of directors. She replaces John Alt, who has retired after nine years of service.

Sue received a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in 1988, and in 1989 completed course work at Eastern Illinois University for a master’s degree in museum administration. Her degree is pending completion of her thesis.

Sue started working as a tour guide at Heritage Hill State Park in Green Bay when she was 12 years old, and continued throughout high school and college. She also worked at Lincoln Log Cabin State Park in Charleston, Ill. Then she helped develop special events and interiors for an 1860sera farm in Macon County Conservation District in Decatur, Ill., for her graduate school internship.

The State Historical Society of Wisconsin then hired her as the first curator for Stonefield Village in Cassville, Wis. She was curator of interpretation and collections, special events and volunteer coordinator, and she helped develop educational programs.

Sue then worked at Devil’s Lake State Park heading up visitor services for seven years before returning to school to receive a degree in legal transcription. She has worked as a legal secretary at Cross, Jenks, Mercer and Maffei in Baraboo for

almost seven years.

Sue’s husband manages Pizza Hut in Portage. They have two daughters, five-year-old Lizzie and Claire who is seven months. The board of directors welcomes Sue.

Courthouse Time Capsule On Display

The 1905 Sauk County Courthouse cornerstone time capsule contents, which were unveiled in July to celebrate the courthouse’s centennial, are traveling the county for public viewing. See the time capsule in: November: Kilbourn Public Library, Wisconsin Dells; December: Sauk County West Square Building, Baraboo; January and February 2006: Reedsburg Public Library; March: LaValle Village Hall; April: North Freedom Public Library; May: Rock Springs Public Library; June: M&I Bank of Spring Green; July: Baraboo Public Library; and August: Sauk County West Square Building, Baraboo. ✒

2006 Time Capsule Contest

by the Sauk Co. Courthouse Centennial Committee

In 2006 the Sauk County Courthouse Centennial Committee anticipates replacing the courthouse cornerstone with a new time capsule. Plans are to include new memorabilia that is indicative and reminiscent of life in Sauk County in 2005. The Committee is hosting a Cornerstone Contents Contest to solicit your ideas of what should be included. Entry forms can be picked up and dropped off at the Sauk County Historical Museum. The Committee will judge entries and determine which are suitable to include. Individuals whose items are selected will be announced in August 2006 and awarded a copy of the book, Looking Into History: The Sauk County Area. ✒

Sauk County Historical Society new board members Natalie Bussan, left, who replaced Carol Sorg, and Sue Teska, who replaces John Alt. (Natalie’s biography may be found in the August 2005 newsletter).

Executive Director’s Report

Changing Exhibits, New Building Next Year

by Peter Shrake

Museums often give the impression of a place where nothing changes except the amount of collections. But museums are constantly in motion, and the Sauk County Historical Society’s Historical Museum is no exception. For the last few months the staff and a newly created Museum Committee have been reconstructing several of the permanent exhibits on the second floor of the Van Orden mansion.

The north or front bedroom will represent county history up to 1837. This room will contain exhibits relating to natural history, the vanished prairies of Sauk County, the ancient Indian cultures, and the fur trade era. The second room to be rebuilt, the old pioneer exhibit, will focus on county history from 1837 to 1872. This room will contain exhibits on William Canfield, the immigrant experience, the Civil War, hops, early pioneers and Indian removal.

These new exhibits reflect a change in our interpretation of the county’s past. Until now our exhibits have been largely topical, i.e. military, Native American, natural history, etc. The new approach focuses on the chronological history of our region. These exhibits show historical events and artifacts within the context of their time.

These two rooms will be completed by the Christmas open house. Next year, two more rooms will continue the chronology of Sauk County. The master bedroom will focus on county history from 1871–1929 and the old military room will showcase county history from 1929 to the present.

Exhibits are not the only changes coming to the Society. The Van Orden mansion presently serves the Society as a museum, library/archive, office space, public event space and a storage facility. The base-

Old Sauk Trails • November 2005

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails quarterly. Editor: Nichelle Martin.

The Society maintains the Sauk County Historical Museum , a three-story, 14-room mansion and repository of local history. Open year-round, Tuesday–Saturday, 12–5 p.m.

Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO BOX 651• Baraboo WI 53913

Tele: 608-356-1001 • E-mail: history@saukcounty.com

Web site: www.saukcounty.com/schs

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

ment and ballroom, both closed to the public in recent years, have served as collections storage areas. But both areas are full.

This year the Society is celebrating its centennial, a milestone for any organization. But the centennial also means the Society has been collecting county history for 100 years! If the Society is to truly serve its mission to collect and preserve Sauk County history, it must have space for current incoming collections and for the next 50–75 years. In 1938 the Society leaders took a dramatic step when they purchased the Van Orden mansion. And 67 years later the Society must again take a dramatic step and acquire space for its collections and operations.

At the annual meeting Oct. 27, 2005, Society President Paul Wolter unveiled to members the Society’s McFetridge building project, also known as the Island Woolen Mill office building that sits just west of the Baraboo River on Second Avenue. This has been a long, careful project initiated in August 2004. If successful, the Society will take ownership of this historic structure sometime before April 2006. After renovations, the Society plans to move its library,

storage and a part of the county museum into the newly acquired building. The Van Orden mansion will become a partial house museum and public event space.

The building project is an important step for the Society. It is also a commitment. A commitment to preserving the existing collections, and to providing the means for future Society members to continue collecting and preserving our county’s past. ✒

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter, Lake Delton, Wis.

As the Sauk County Historical Society’s centennial year draws to a close we can reflect on quite a year for the Society. From its bevy of annual events to unexpected occurrences, things have been busy. I’m

sure the founders would be thrilled to know that their efforts have continued for these 100 years, and that the Society still fulfills its mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk County history.

As the Society starts its next century, we shall endeavor to keep fulfilling this mission and set a firm foundation for future efforts. Every day that passes is another day to record. Sauk County was only 65 years old when the Society started, now it is 165. It is a growing, vibrant place and one that will see numerous changes in the decades to come. Your support means that the Society will be there to record them. Thank you for investing in the future of our past.

Robert LaFollette Recognized

During October 2005 the Sauk County Historical Society hosted a tribute to Robert M. LaFollette Sr. depicting historic events in his life and service to the people of Wisconsin, using artifacts provided by the Wisconsin State Historical Society. LaFollette was governor of Wisconsin from 1901–1906 and lead a progressive reform movement that earned the state a national reputation for honest government dedicated to the public good over special interests.

During his administration, the Wisconsin legislature adopted the direct primary, introduced a civil service system, reorganized the tax structure and increased corporate regulation. As a U.S. senator (1906–1925), LaFollette fought corrupt practices, championed government regulation of business and commerce, and promoted conservation. In 1924 he ran unsuccessfully for president.

Also known as Fighting Bob, LaFollette raised the hackles of many when he opposed America’s entry into WWI, and for defending the freedom of speech during wartime. He opposed pork barrel spending on pet projects by his colleagues.

LaFollette married Belle Case in 1881, and they had three children. In her own right, Belle reflected her husband’s respect for progressivism. After the birth of their first child, she returned to the University of Wisconsin and became the first woman to graduate from its law school. Throughout her husband’s career, Belle acted behind the scenes as his political organizer, and advisor. She later became a leading suffragist and peace activist.

The couple’s sons followed in their parent’s footsteps, with Robert Jr. serving as a U.S. senator and Philip as Wisconsin governor. ✒

Badger History Group Update

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

The Badger History Group (BHG) and the University of Wisconsin Baraboo/Sauk County have joined efforts to produce a video project on the history of Badger Village. The community was created for Powder Plant workers during World War II and housed students going to U.W.-Madison on the GI Bill in the postwar years. This unique company town will be the focus of a 30-minute video history.

The BHG has also applied for a position on the new Sauk County Badger Oversight Management Commission. Serving on this commission will significantly aid the BHG in its efforts to preserve the Badger Army Ammunition Plant’s unique heritage.

The BHG meets the second Wednesday of every month at 1:30 in building 200 of the Badger Army Ammunition Plant. This small group always needs new members. If you are interested in becoming involved, or if you have memorabilia or memories of your involvement at the plant, please call me at the Sauk County Historical Museum at 608-356-1001.

Harrisburgers News

by Peter Shrake, Society executive director

The Harrisburgers, an affiliate group of the Sauk County Historical Society, continues its hard work restoring the Harrisburg School District No. 5 schoolhouse located on County Highway B in Troy Township. This fall the original windows were restored and before the end of November the group plans to have new doors and basement windows installed. Restoring the schoolhouse’s interior is anticipated to begin sometime this winter. ✒

Shop The Society’s Gift Shop

Christmas is coming and the Sauk County Historical Society has items that may make someone feel like they came home for Christmas. Consider a gift membership for someone with fond memories of Sauk County. Memberships start at just $15.

The Van Orden mansion, home of the Society and its Sauk County Historical Museum, was featured in an ornament put out by Downtown Baraboo Inc. The ornament is available for $21, or $27 with a stand.

Also choose from books, maps, posters—a variety of items for the history buff on your list. Members get discounted prices on some items. Contact the Museum for price and shipping details.

Books

All Bottled Up.....................................................$30.00

Ancient Rocks And Vanished Glaciers................$10.00

Building On The Past............................................$3.00

A County Called Sauk.........................................$12.00

A Guide to Historic Baraboo...................................Free

Ghost Village of White Mound–Billytown.........$15.00

Historical Homes of Prairie du Sac.....................$18.00

Historic Markers......................................................Free

House At The Foot Of The Hill.............................$8.00

Images of America: Baraboo...............................$20.00

Lake Delton: An Illustrated History....................$20.00

Lives Lived Here.................................................$20.00

The Long Road Back.............................................$3.00

Looking Into History: The Sauk County Area......$5.00

Many a Fine Harvest...........................................$25.00

Merrimack Ferries.................................................$8.00

Natural Areas in the Baraboo Hills.....................$10.00

A Naturalist’s Journey.........................................$20.00

A Paradise Lost: Sauk Prairie Remembered.........$8.00

Portage History....................................................$35.00

Powder, People, Place.........................................$25.00

Prairie du Sac Businesses....................................$35.00

Reedsburg Remembers........................................$16.00

Stagecoach and Tavern Tales...............................$20.00

St. Mary’s Ringling Hospital Manor Convent......$5.00

St. Mary’s Ringling...............................................$5.00

Sauk County Journal............................................$18.00

Sumpter Books

Also in Sumpter.............................................$10.00

Always in Sumpter.........................................$10.00

Forever in Sumpter.........................................$10.00

Return to Sumpter..........................................$16.00

They Led Us To Today........................................$10.00

Wisconsin Writers and Writing...........................$16.00

Posters

Chief Blackhawk.................................................$10.00

Pecatonica Battleground......................................$10.00

historic photographs. The whole photo collection is digitized and the staff can put an electronic file on a CD for just $10 per photo. Would someone in your family like a picture of Timme Mill, Pewit’s Nest, or the millpond at LaValle? Get a copy on CD and you can have it printed to the size that works best for you, and you can make a copy for everyone on your Christmas list. Check with the Museum to see if it has a photo of your favorite place in Sauk County. ✒

Hair Wreath On Display

by William C. Schuette, Loganville, Wis.

This time of year many of us hang pine wreaths on our front doors to celebrate the holidays. Over 100 years ago, wreaths of a different kind were created and displayed, but for an entirely different reason.

During the Victorian era (1837–1901) European and North American women spent much of their day in the home. To pass time, they indulged in fancy work, which they could display for friends and neighbors. One form of this fancy work was making hair wreaths. Pioneer women also made them to decorate their otherwise mundane homes.

In those days, many women had long, flowing hair, so there was a plentiful supply of raw material to work with. Locks were commonly taken from family

members to be woven into the design, as a remembrance, since photographs were rare or nonexistent then. Horsehair was sometimes used to fill out a design. Women could also purchase strands of hair from catalogs or local stores. Locks of blond, black, brown or red hair were used.

The tresses were woven around thin wire and formed into delicate designs of flowers, floral sprigs and leaves. Wooden or glass beads, buttons, and sometimes seeds, were also included in the final product. Wreaths were sometimes formed into horseshoe-shapes, a Victorian symbol of good luck, with the open end facing up to hold in the luck. The wreath was mounted on a silk or velvet background and placed in a fancy frame. Many of the wreaths extended to 18 inches or more in diameter.

Originally, hair wreaths were made from deceased loved ones’ hair as a remembrance, and the strands placed at the center. As another family member died, his or her hair would be placed into the center, and the previous lock would be moved to the outside. Eventually hair wreaths were created for sentimental reasons, and given as gifts to friends as keepsakes. Young girls made scrapbooks that included their schoolmates’ locks. Valentines were also created with a few strands of the givers hair inside as a token of affection.

Queen Victoria presented her children and grandchildren with jewelry made from her hair and Napoleon had a watch chain made from his wife’s hair.

AVAILABLE TO RENT

One-bedroom efficiency apartment with 322 square feet of living area at the Anne Elizabeth Reese Memorial Home, 125 9th Street, Baraboo WI 53913. Newly re-modeled in 2004–2005. $1,000 per month.

Qualifications: Single woman at least age 55. Preference given to widows of Episcopal clergymen. Physician must certify ability to care for self and room.

Included: Heat and electricity, refrigerator and one cooked meal served at noon.

Contact: Virginia L. Davis, manager, at 608-356-3577

Hair wreaths, today, can sell for hundreds or even $1,000, depending upon how elaborate the design. The Sauk County Historical Society has an intricate hair wreath on display in the pioneer room made by Modora Todd Premo around 1861. ✒

Society’s Wish List

by Mary Farrell-Stieve, Society staff assistant

Your generosity is humbling. Since the August newsletter, the Sauk County Historical Society has had volunteers sorting and organizing files, greeting visitors, proofreading the typing done by other volunteers, transcribing letters and building stools for those of us who are vertically challenged. The Sauk County Historical Museum is jumping!

It won’t be more than a few weeks before you will see the fruits of some of these labors. If you are computer literate you will be able to go to the Society’s Web site and access early articles written for the Society. These great stories were written by members and presented at Society meetings. Perhaps they will inspire you to put your memories down on paper for your family, for the Society and for future Sauk County citizens.

If you live in the area, the annual Victorian Christmas celebration is right around the corner. All the wonderful sights, sounds and tastes of the day are thanks to dedicated and talented volunteers. We are beginning a new cultural tree in our pioneer room and hope to each year feature a different ethnic group that made Sauk County its home. You can help us make this feature more alive by sharing stories or objects from your childhood Christmas, especially if you or your parents were new immigrants to America.

So some of our needs have been met, but (isn’t there always a but!) we need more help! Can anyone spare a few minutes each week to photocopy? We now have several eager transcribers and data entry volunteers, and the bottleneck is getting information into their hands. If you can spare just a short time, but want to perform a valuable service, come in and we will get you started photocopying letters, early articles, scrapbooks and other interesting things.

Do you have letters written to or by soldiers? We are beginning an exciting project to transcribe all of the Society’s war correspondence and post it on the Web site. If you have letters, please consider transcribing them and e-mailing them to us at

Continued on page 8.

Welcome New and Renewed Members

The following are new Sauk County Historical Society members or members who have renewed between Aug. 1 and Oct. 31, 2005.

BENEFACTOR

Virginia Metcalf and Mary Yeakel, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

Lucas and Nadia Van Orden IV, Iowa City, Iowa

PATRON

Alan Langeteig, Baraboo, Wis.

SPONSOR

Gary Haas, Milwaukee, Wis.

Paul Wolter, Wisconsin Dells, Wis.

SUPPORTING

Garry and Gale Bahe, Merrimac, Wis.

John and Jane Geoghegan, Baraboo, Wis.

Bruce Ley, Baraboo, Wis.

Clyde and Carolyn Moon, Baraboo, Wis.

Glen and Mary Schulz, Baraboo, Wis.

FRIEND

Sue Banaszak, Milwaukee, Wis.

Natalie Bussan, Baraboo, Wis.

Ruth Pischke, Baraboo, Wis.

Sarah Poker, Apple Valley, Minn.

Nancy Prine, Middleton, Wis.

Maxine Triff, Madison, Wis.

COUPLE

Gene and Karen Beth, Rock Springs, Wis.

Rich and JJ Calton, Cheyenne, Wyo.

Roger and Bev Clason, Sauk City, Wis.

Nancy and Fred Dillman, Baraboo, Wis.

Robert and Rosa Fleming, Baraboo, Wis.

Buddy and Sue Gogue, Baraboo, Wis.

Susan Harris, Denver, Col.

Jim and Nancy Higgins, Baraboo, Wis.

Bob and Darlene Hill, Baraboo, Wis.

Ken and Ida Huber, Boulder Creek, Calif.

Jeanne and James Jessie, Norco, Calif.

Lawrence and Shirley Kowalke, Fort Myers, Fla.

Bernard and Diana Long, Waunakee, Wis.

Mauri and Roseann Madden, Baraboo, Wis.

Paul and Nichelle Martin, Baraboo, Wis.

Mike and Peg Martiny, Princeville, Ill.

Phillip and Alonna Pointon, Baraboo, Wis.

Aliceson and Hal Rubel, Cary, Ill.

Mike and Mary Schell, Baraboo, Wis.

Bill and Alice Schellenberger, Baraboo, Wis.

Mike Spencer, Baraboo Wis.

Bea and Roman Statz, Baraboo, Wis.

David and Charlotte Taylor, Baraboo, Wis.

Ron and Lynn Trok (Risley), Cable, Wis.

Joe and Linda Van Berkel, Baraboo, Wis.

Joseph and Barbara Vodak, Baraboo, Wis.

INDIVIDUAL

Robin Abou-Ali, Richland Center, Wis.

Dolores Barker, Woodburn, Ore.

Bernadette Bittner, Reedsburg, Wis.

Beatrice Blau, Sun Prairie, Wis.

Michelle Brewer, Richland Center, Wis.

Michelle Burton, Baraboo, Wis.

Merlyn Cox, Ellison Bay, Wis.

Sandra Cunningham, Reedsburg, Wis.

Trudy Danley, Farmington, Mich.

Vera Dwars, Baraboo, Wis.

Jim Getschman, Baraboo, Wis.

Christopher Goetz, Lakewood, Wis.

Mark Greimel, Spring Green, Wis.

James Hanger, Reedsburg, Wis.

Jim Honer, Madison, Wis.

Grant Hutton, Austin, Texas

Fran Kelly, Baraboo, Wis.

Lorraine Kindschi, Baraboo, Wis.

Marlene Meyer, Prairie du Sac, Wis.

Kim Nesenson, Champlin, Minn.

Elizabeth Nevers, Baraboo, Wis.

Virginia Roberts, Baraboo, Wis.

Deanna Schulz, Baraboo, Wis.

Judy Siebecker Cantu, New Meadows, Idaho

Carolyn Wafle-Guenther, La Honda, Calif.

Jeffrey Zuzunaga, Baraboo, Wis.

Membership Renewal

The Sauk County Historical Society mails members renewal notices 30 days before memberships expire. Please return it promptly. If your membership is not renewed within 30 days of its expiration date the Society will remove you from the current mailing list. Thank you for your continued support. ✒

To join the Sauk County Historical Society, give a gift membership or renew your membership, send a check for the level you desire along with the member’s name, address and telephone number to the Society at PO BOX 651, Baraboo WI 53913-0651.

Individual $15,Couple $25,Friend $35, Supporting $50,Sponsor $100,Patron $250 +, Benefactor $500+

Membership includes a subscription to this quarterly newsletter, free admission to the Sauk County Historical Museum and access to historical archives, membership meetings and events, and an affiliate membership to the Wisconsin Historical Society with its benefits. Annual dues support all aspects of executing the Society’s mission.

history@saukcounty.com. A scan or a good photocopy of the original would be much appreciated too. As we get this project ready for posting we will also be asking for photographs of those who wrote home and a short biography of their lives. If you can contribute in any way, let us know.

Things the Society needs to make daily life easier:

1.A volunteer willing to sweep and dust.

2.Catalog and inventory archival and artifact collections.

3.Docent greeters.

4.Someone knowledgeable about rain gardens to develop and create one on the Museum grounds next spring.

These are just some of the things the Society wishes it could add to its collections:

1.Topographical maps for townships other than Dellona, Winfield, LaValle and Woodland.

2.Any historic photos (people should be identified) to be either added to our collection or scanned and returned. We especially need rural images and any photos of places in the western section of the county.

3.School yearbooks, class lists, etc. (grade-school class lists are especially needed for city schools).

4.Stories of your childhood in Sauk County, tape recorded, written, typed—all are welcome.

5.Historical information on clubs and organizations.

6.Journals and scrapbooks containing local history information.

7.Plat books (contact us to see what we have).

8.Business-related information about past businesses especially annual reports, brochures and advertising.

9.Remembrances of the Sears and Roebuck Pig Project

10.Church-related history. ✒

Another Successful Victorian Open House

THE SOCIETY hosted its sixth annual Victorian Christmas Open House on December 10th, 2005. Despite snowy conditions 506 visitors came to the Sauk County Historical Museum that day! The event’s success was entirely due to the many sponsors and volunteers who contributed time, material, or funding.

First of all we would like to thank the Baraboo National Bank for sponsoring part of the event.

The trees were donated by Jeff Sorg in memory of his mother, Carol Sorg. The beautiful decorations were due to the impressive talents of Dave Saloutos, Roger Hanko of Amber Moon, Bekah Stelling of Bekah Kate’s, Roberta Barrix of By Boots and LaDonna Devine of An Sopa Eire, all in Baraboo, and Gail Schronce of Crazy Daisy in Lake Delton. Several historical society members led by Paul Wolter worked on the remaining five trees and the stunning decorations in each room.

The live music at the open house included the talents of many wonderful local musicians including Gail

Bird, Inger Clemens, Dave Saloutos, Mona Larsen, Paul Wolter, Mark Stelling, Kate Masterson, Katie Benson, Brad Wilson, Mark Reitz, Jean Powell, Audrey Christopherson, Deanna and Anne Horjus, George Browne, Adam Lowe, Jason Schultz, James Utterback, John Anderson, Chester Van Huss, JJ Percy, and others.

Also contributing to the success were the many excellent bakers who donated cookies and treats for the buffet table. Thanks also to Pam and Ralph Krainik for the use of their punch bowl and trays and plates for serving the cookies and to Donna Lange and Jean Smith for coordinating and managing the buffet table.

Many members and friends helped us host the event. Thank you to all who greeted guests at the door, kept the buffet table well stocked, helped with the carriage rides, oversaw the second floor and sold raffle tickets.

(Continued on page 3)

The Society's 2005 Christmas gingerbread creation was of Krainik’s House of Seven Gables.

Executive Director’s Report

OUR MUSEUM COMMITTEE has been very busy these last few months! In preparing for the Christmas Open house the committee doubled its efforts to complete several ongoing exhibit projects including exhibits on Native American culture, 19th century daily life, and the immigrant experience in Sauk County. The former “Military Room” on the 2nd floor of the Van Orden Mansion has been converted to the “20th Century Room”. This room, when completed will focus on the history of our county from 1919 to the present. Currently it contains new exhibits on industry and business, baseball, medical advancement in the 20th century, Sheriff Mike Spencer and the Manhunt of ‘61, World War II and the Badger Army Ammunition Plant. The Museum Committee currently consists of Eleanor Chiquoine, Bill Schuette, Sue Teska, and myself. However, we are always looking for new members and we are always working on new projects. A large number of exhibit projects still need completing, and our collections require extensive cataloging.

We have been fortunate to receive the help of a number of excellent volunteers. For four years one volunteer, Kathy Shrake, has been typing our old hand written catalog records into Past Perfect, a special computer database program designed for museums. This has been a daunting task considering that we have 100 years worth of catalog records, and the records use at least four distinctly different catalog numbering systems. Kathy also has had to deal with countless different, and sometimes illegible hand writing styles, including her son’s. Currently about 3/4ths of the catalogs have been entered into the computer.

By Peter Shrake

But Kathy’s work is only half of the project. If we are to truly have a electronic catalog that properly records the collections and serves as a finding guide, we need to have a comprehensive inventory of the collections in their current storage locations. This means going through box after box and recording each artifact and then matching that record to the new computer catalog. Several collections, most notably our extensive textile collection, have been inventoried, but remember, we have been collecting for 100 years. There are vast sections of our collections that still require attention.

Kathy Shrake is not the only volunteer who has helped with our cataloging. Our Society holds nearly every newspaper printed in Baraboo from 1850 to 1989. We also have papers for Sauk Prairie and a few from Spring Green. All of these papers have been organized, and cataloged by Bob Doepke. This remarkable achievement was accomplished over several years and remains an ongoing project as new volumes of bound papers find their way into our collections. The point of all of this is that our exhibits and collections are cared for by a small group of dedicated people. But we need help. Please consider joining our museum committee. Working with our collections is hard work but also immensely rewarding. You get to work with artifacts few rarely get to see. Volunteering is easy, simply call the museum and ask for Peter Shrake. By helping with our cataloging projects, you are playing a very important role in preserving our county’s heritage.

Sauk County Historical Society Web Site

IF you haven’t visited our Web site yet, you might wish to take a look. Since it’s inception about 8 years ago, the site has had over 35,000 visitors!

The site, with over 200 pages, includes information on doing genealogical research in Sauk County, a list of names of people whose photos are in the Society’s collection, census records, obituaries, a list of county newspapers, articles on local history by local historians and a floor map of the mansion, including photos of the exhibit rooms. The Society’s collection also contains county probate records from c.1845 through 1976, and a list of names included in these records is available on-line for researchers.

A listing of over 10,000 photographs in the Society’s collection was recently added to the Web site. They include categories such as Badger Ordnance, C&NW Railroad, Churches, Circus, Devils Lake, Military, Native American, and Schools. Also included is a list of photos of all the cities, towns and villages in Sauk County. Come visit us at www.saukcounty.com.

Victorian Open House…

This is the third year of representing a beautiful historic home in gingerbread. This year Society volunteers constructed two gingerbread replicas of the House of Seven Gables owned by Ralph and Pam Krainik. One house was a candy-land version and the other was a detailed replica. Thank you to Salecker’s Baker’s Dozen Bakery for donating gingerbread and supplies and to Paul Wolter and his assistants, for creating these wonderful gingerbread houses.

The Society’s Christmas raffle was well supported by both donors and ticket buyers. A number of items were raffled including the candy House of Seven Gables, four place mats modeled after a 1940's Christmas card donated by Kathy Shrake, a table top runner donated by Jean Smith, one of the Society’s woven coverlets, and several Christmas prints reproduced from vintage Christmas cards in the collections of the Society. We want to thank all who bought tickets. Alona Pointon won the candy gingerbread house, Joanne Litscher won the table runner, Mervin Cook won the place mats, Gale Bahe won the coverlet Zita Schultz, Sarah Salone, Jeanne DeForest and Nancy Schneider won the framed Christmas prints. There was also a mini quilt offered in a drawing for members attending the event and Allegra Zick was the lucky winner.

We especially thank everyone who attended. Your enthusiasm and support for what we do makes all the work and planning worthwhile.

Sauk County Historical Society Public Event Schedule

March 16, 6:30 p.m. at the museum

Historic Artifacts of the Sauk County

Historical Museum - Peter Shrake

April 8, 7:00 p.m. at the museum

Annual William Canfield Day Celebration

May 6, 7:00 p.m. at the museum

Magic Lantern Show by Verlyn Mueller

Archivist of the Sauk Prairie Area Historical Society

June 2, 6:00 p.m. Founders Day Picnic

Details to be announced in future issues of Old Sauk Trails

June 17 Baraboo Tour of Historic Homes

Details to be announced in future issues of Old Sauk Trails

Old Sauk Trails Now Bi-monthly

BEGINNING with this issue Old Sauk Trails will be published bi-monthly, meaning members will now receive six copies a year instead of four. In 2005 the Board of Directors decided to increase the number of issues in an effort to better communicate with the membership what the Society was doing and what it has done. “It was hard to try and fit three months of past events and three months of upcoming items into each newsletter,” said Society President, Paul Wolter. “This move will not only help us keep people informed but will allow more space for local history articles. I am also pleased to announce that our newsletter will now be laid out by Mark Tully of Baraboo.”

If you would like to submit a local history article for consideration please contact the Publications Chairman, Bill Schuette at wschuette@direcway.com

Free carriage rides were one of the highlights of the Christmas Open House.

Society Preparing First World War Letters For Review

H.E. COLE, the founder and first president of the Sauk County Historical Society, was also editor of the local newspaper. A popular recurring feature during the Great War or World War I as we know it, were letters from the boys at war. Cole cleaned up the grammar and spelling, excluded the most personal items and published these letters in the paper each week.

Many of the letters were never returned to their owners and ended up in the collections of the Sauk County Historical Society. We have catalogued these letters and are in the process of transcribing them with their original words, spelling and grammar.

These letters will eventually be posted on our website along with photos and short biographies of the soldiers. Below is a list of the letter writers. Those with asterisks also have pictures on file. Can you help us locate photos and personal information about these soldiers?

Baker, Wm K.

Blanck, Albert*

Braun, Arnold O.

Clossey, Arthur H.

Clossey, Joseph F.

Cougdon, James E.

Dempsey, Andrew

Foriest, James

Gibbons, V.A.

Gibbons, Vaughn R. Graves, G. R.

Heinstock, Guy

Henke, E.*

Herritz, Edward F.

Hess, Albert L.

Hutter, Andrew G.

Jeffries, Raymond Wilbur

Keller, R.J.

Kingsford, Harold A

Leece, Thomas Loomis, Percy G.*

Marshall, Howard E. Marter,Charles K

Murphy, Daniel J Niemann, Erhart C. Philbrick,Orriel

Pierce, George Pilley, J.M. Pilley, M. Potter, Howard*

Savage, Ernest C. Schrieber,Louis M Schuster, Dewey* Smith, Vivian M. Spier,William J. Steinbrink, Clifford* Weinke, Ernest A.

Our collections include numerous letters, diaries and journals from 19th and 20th century wars. We would like to expand that collection. Do you or your family have any letters from servicemen or women that you would be willing to share? The Society welcomes donations of these types of materials or if your family wishes to keep the originals, we would appreciate digital scans or good quality photocopies of them. These materials will be added to our collection and become part of our research files.

Baraboo Tour of Historic Homes June 17, 2006

HISTORIC HOMES will once again be in the spotlight on Saturday, June 17th for the Society’s 7th Tour of Historic Homes. If you have a historic home in Baraboo that you would like to have on the tour please contact the museum. If you would like to volunteer to staff a home for a few hours and receive a free ticket for the tour please contact the museum as well at 356-1001.

“CliffsNotes” for the Museum!!

by Eleanor Chiquoine

REMEMBER CliffsNotes? Between their distinctive yellow and black covers, CliffsNotes summarized the plots of many famous novels. Depending on whether (and how much!) you relied on “CliffsNotes” as a student, memories of these slender volumes might bring up guilty feelings.

Well, even if you have reason to feel guilty about then, we encourage you to put those feelings away. The Museum has its own version of CliffsNotes now, and we’d love to have you use them!

This past fall, the Museum embarked on a major exhibit and labeling project. Our staff and the Board of Directors realized that while we had many artifacts on display, they lacked labels and text to pull it all together in an easy summary. Though visitors could learn lots of individual facts about Sauk County history while touring the Museum, they did not come away with a cohesive, chronological sense of our history. To get that sort of understanding, a Museum visitor would have to research numerous history books devoted to Sauk County. What could we do to solve this problem? Why, create “CliffsNotes” for our Museum!

BOD members Eleanor Chiquoine, Bill Schuette, Sue Teska, and Paul Wolter, with help from Executive Director, Peter Shrake, designated four of the upstairs bedrooms in the Museum for display space. In these four rooms, we assembled artifacts to illustrate a brief chronological history of Sauk County. We rearranged artifacts, built some new displays, and then re-labeled it all. As an added feature for people curious about the original architecture and use of the Van Orden mansion, we included “Mansion Facts” for each room. Now, by visiting these four rooms, Museum visitors can get a basic understanding of Sauk County from pre-history until the 20th century. Is this four-room project a thorough and complete history of Sauk County? No. For that, we recommend reading some of the many good history books available about Sauk County. But for people wanting a quick, condensed version of Sauk County’s history, come visit the Museum. And we promise – your grade won’t be lowered for having used these CliffsNotes!

Society Wish List

SOCIETY –“An organization or association of persons engaged in a common profession, activity, or interest.” So goes one definition of the word society. As we are an organization of members engaged in a common interest, namely Sauk County history, it is useful to inform members from time to time of how they can become “engaged.”

The Society can always use volunteers in a variety of capacities, pictures and memorabilia are currently being sought of the Sauk County Courthouse, Island Woolen Mill, and Cazenovia and Southern railroad, and archival supplies are always needed to help preserve our collections. If you would like to help, have something to share or could provide the means to help preserve items, please call the museum at 608-356-1001.

Old Sauk Trails • Jan/Feb 2006

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

Editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat Ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO Box 651 • Baraboo, WI 53913

Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round

(608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

Baraboo’s Silent Policeman

BEFORE the days of the horseless carriage, horse & buggy drivers pretty much drove where they pleased, obeying rudimentary traffic rules. Generally, horses would not run into each other, regardless of what kind of attention was being paid by their driver. There were no one-way streets around the turn of the 20th Century, and if everyone kept to the right, few problems developed. However, with the advent of the newfangled gasoline-powered automobiles, which came upon the scene during the early 1900's, drivers, both horse and auto, would become much more aware of the problems which arose when they met.

Horse owners complained of the high speeds that autos drove–up to 20 miles per hour!–and the noisy engines, which scared their teams. To accommodate and protect the horse teams, proper etiquette dictated that cars must keep to the right of center, and not exceed a 6 mile per hour speed when turning street corners.

How far right, was right? Some vehicles would cut a corner, thereby getting into the oncoming lane, with potential disastrous results. Intersections were the worst, where four streets met. Few, if any, stop signs existed then, so who had the right-of-way?

Books Available

ERHART MUELLER’S first book, Only in Sumpter, was published in 1977 and the popularity of the little green book was so great it prompted five more in the Sumpter series. The green book sold out soon after it was printed but the demand has lived on. Erhart’s sister, Leta Ambler, has generously sponsored 300 reprints of the Only in Sumpter books. The paperback version of the original is on sale now for $25 plus $4 for shipping. Non-members price is $28.

The rest of the Sumpter series is still available in the original hardcover version. These books were published between 1980 and 1994. Also…, Always…, and Forever in Sumpter sell for $8 each to members, $10 for non-members. The last book in the series, Return to Sumpter was published in 1994 and sells for $14 for members, $16 for non-members.

All these books are available from the Society. See our web site for other local history titles!

by Bill Schuette

Instead of having a traffic officer at each busy intersection directing traffic, the problem was solved with the installation of what was then called a “Silent Policeman”. It consisted of a cement pillar, about 5 feet high, usually with a shiny globe on top. The globe sometimes lit up at night for better visibility. It was understood that, upon entering an intersection, drivers must always keep to the right of the Silent Policeman. If one wished to make a 90 degree left-hand turn, the driver would have to turn right, circle the pillar and exit at the desired street. It was a type of “roundabout” commonly used in Europe at the time.

One of Baraboo’s prominent “Silent Policemen” stood at the intersection of Oak Street and 4th Ave. in this 1925 photo. The Warren Hotel is in the background.

Nominees Needed For Canfield History Award

THE SAUK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY will award its fifth William H. Canfield History Award on April 8, 2006 to honor the memory of Sauk County’s earliest historian and acknowledge the work of a current historian. The individual chosen will be one that has made an abiding commitment to local history and whose efforts are reflected in a body of work or certain contributions. The Society will accept nominations until March 24, 2006. Please use the form below to nominate someone who has contributed to the preservation of local history in the spirit of William H. Canfield.

William H. Canfield History Award Nomination

Deadline: March 24, 2006. Submit to: Sauk County Historical Society PO Box 651 Baraboo, WI 53913

Submitter’s Name ____________________________________________________________________ Telephone # ______________________

Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City/State/ZIP

Email Address

Nominee’s Name ____________________________________________________________________ Telephone # _____________________

Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City/State/ZIP ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Email Address

On a separate piece of paper, please complete the following paragraph in 500 words or less: I nominate________, who, like William H. Canfield, shows a passion for local history as shown by his/her…

6th Annual Canfield Day April 8, 2006

THE SOCIETY will celebrate the sixth annual William H. Canfield Day on Saturday, April 8 at 7 p.m. at the Sauk County Historical Museum. The meeting will be held the on the eve of the 187th birthday of Sauk County earliest and most interesting historian. This year’s program will focus on Canfield’s interest in archaeology and Indian Mounds and his connections with Wisconsin notables such as Increase Allen Lapham. During the evening the Society will also present its annual William H. Canfield History Award to honor the work of a present-day local

historian who displays the same passion for history as Canfield. Birthday cake and refreshments will round out the evening.

We Care Program

THE SAUK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY participates in the Pick ‘n Save “We Care” program. The Society’s number is: 700500. When registering for an Advantage Plus Card, please support the Society through this matching gift program.

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

Let the past enrich your present

Return Service Requested

New and Renewed Members

THE following are new members or members that have renewed since October 2005.

Patron

Kathy Shrake, Lakewood WI

Lucas and Nadia Van Orden IV, Iowa City IA

Sponsor

Steve and Eleanor Chiquoine, Reedsburg WI

David and Tana Holmblad, Reedsburg WI

Francis & Joan Costerisan, Hendersonville NC

Bev Vaillancourt, La Valle WI

Ethan and Kari Carlson, Baraboo WI

Supporting

Donna Lange, Reedsburg WI

Virgil, Cheryl and Vi Erlandson, Hagerstown MD

Jean and William Brew, Wisconsin Dells WI

Bill & Deb Johnsen, Baraboo WI

Harry and Leah Wolcott, Baraboo WI

Patricia Baade, Baraboo WI

David SaLoutos, Baraboo WI

Friend

Jerry and Jeanette Wanless Jessop, La Valle WI

Jack Pittman, Atlantic IA

Couple

David and Jeanne Fuhs, Baraboo WI

Lyle and Marge Getschman, Baraboo WI

David and Elsie Gilmore, Baraboo WI

Rick and Yenti Eilertson, Baraboo WI

LaDonna and Jerome Lindquist, Verona WI

Scott and Rachel Larson, Baraboo WI

Phyllis and Wayne Dearborn, Plain WI

Mary and Millie Canepa, Baraboo WI

Krisha Miner and Family, St Petersburg FL

Walter and Yvonne Smith, Baraboo WI

Thomas and Jacqueline Bladl, Fond Du Lac WI

Jerald and Zita Schultz, Baraboo WI

Bryan and Mary Reeve, Spring Green WI

Harlow Heintz, Poynette WI

Louis and Sarah Solone, Reedsburg WI

Tom and Sue Holmes, Baraboo WI

Joe and Beth Prindle, Baraboo WI

Mike and Angie Haller, Baraboo WI

Individual

Mary Hein, Baraboo WI

Robert Johnson, Baraboo WI

Burt Wright, Los Angeles CA

Bob Kieffer Jr, Baraboo WI

Kathryn Schauf, Baraboo WI

Gladys Marini, Baraboo WI

Nancy Kreier, Portage WI

Richard Lillie, Portage WI

Luanne Krohn, Reedsburg WI

Rex Getschman, Baraboo WI

Susan Teska, Baraboo WI

Sheila Anderson, Sauk City WI

Sarah Brehm, Spring Green WI

Jill Bobholz, Baraboo WI

Jim Mulock, Baraboo WI

March March/April 2006

Sugar Camp

IT IS not known when Midwestern Native Americans first discovered the sweet taste of sap from the maple tree, but it is likely that the discovery predates recorded history

Maple syrup is one of the first crops harvested after a long Wisconsin winter, and is typically extracted between mid-March and mid-April. Ideal conditions to flow sap are cool evenings with temperatures in the 20's with warm days over 40 degrees. There are 5 species of maple trees which produce sap, however it’s the sugar maple (the Wisconsin state tree) that produces the most flavorful syrup. Groves of sugar maple trees were known as sugarbushes.

A tree should be at least 12 inches in diameter and about 40 years old for best production. Up to 3 taps can be placed on each tree, 2-4 feet above the ground. Each tap can produce 10 gallons of sap per season, with some premium trees putting out 50-plus gallons. The sap is dripped into covered buckets which are collected when full. It takes 40 gallons of raw sap to produce one gallon of maple syrup. The season ends when the trees begin to pr buds.

One of the earliest records of the use of maple syrup and dates the mid 1600s fr ound the

Great Lakes and along the St. Lawrence River where it was used for barter by Native Americans. Early settlers called it Indian Molasses. A druggist visiting the New England area from England wrote of a tree “whose juice weeps out of incisions and if permitted to exhale (evaporate) its superfluous moisture, will congeal into a sweet and saccharin substance.”

Maple sap is collected and taken to “sugar houses” where it is boiled down to remove the water and produce the pure syrup. Often times, at least in the past, these sugar houses were located in a valley, making it easier for horse-drawn sleds to transport the sap for rendering. The boiling process increases the sugar content up to 66%, which also causes a chemical process to darken the fluid and give it a maple flavor

Pure maple syrup contains no preser vatives and is typically used to enhance the flavor of pancakes, waffles, yogurt, hot cereals and ice cream.

The accompanying photo depicts the William Hazeltine Sugar Camp, south of Baraboo, April 10, 1924, L-R: William Hazeltine, Eugene Heukr, Rev. E.C. Heukr.

Schuette

Hidden Moonshine Still on Baraboo’s Quarry Street

AFTER reading Mr. Schuette’s two articles on the Prohibition Mr Schuette’s two articles on the Prohibition happenings in Sauk County, and his seeking out interesting stories about that era, I submit the following account. This story started in 1930, three years before Prohibition ended. A shaken friend, who most likely worked at the North Western Railroad Refrigerated Car Company with Edward Rau, made a startling request of him. This unidentified friend got wind that the local State Revenuer was about to raid his operating moonshine still. Grandpa Rau as I called him (not related) owned a couple of acres of land, a small barn and a large chicken coop. His land abutted the famous Bar-B-Que Restaurant and Bowling Alley. They decided the best place to hide the copper still was in the rafters of the chicken coop–at that time it still housed chickens. After securing the various parts, they proceeded to seal the rafters with particle board, with no access to the rafters.

Now some background on how the State and Federal Revenuers located illegal stills. To do this I will first outline a recipe for “moonshine”, Ozark style.

75 lbs. of plain white corn meal

300 lbs. of sugar

1 lb. Yeast

Optional flavoring

300 gallons of cold water

Should yield 48 gallons of “White lightning” or so-called “bald-face whiskey”

The recipe tells us how to find the moonshiner. First, a good Revenuer would check the local grocery stores and food suppliers to see who was buying excessive amounts of sugar. What person uses 300 pounds of sugar a week, a month or a year? If a person was buying excessive amounts of sugar for no apparent reason, and lived in a rural area, it was time for some on-foot scouting of their property, open areas didn't require a search warrant. Making moonshine requires lots of cold water in the final process. He would be looking for natural springs or coldwater streams. It also took lots of dry wood to fuel the fire during the distilling process. The enforcement keys then were, sugar, rural address and cold water source. So we can assume that the unidentified moonshiner did not have the still in the City of Baraboo but may have lived in the city.

Now fast forward the calendar to the summer of 1948, eighteen years after the stashing of the illegal

by Harland Steinhorst

still. Grandpa Rau decided to demolish the long unused chicken coop. Jerry Rau, his bother Gene and myself got involved in the demolition, and we started removing the ceiling materials. To our surprise we discovered a number of copper items, which Grandpa Rau identified to us as a "still". He had completely forgotten about the secret stashing of the illegal equipment, the real owner had passed away. The "find" consisted of copper spouts, copper tubing called the "worm" and small copper kettles. If these items had been found during World War II they would have gone to the war effort.

Not knowing the historical significance of our find, we flatten everything and Grandpa sold it to the local junk dealer. A new "still" these day runs from $450 to $1,450 for the basic items.

Grandpa Rau died in 1967 at the age of 90. His two grandsons still live in the Baraboo area and I live at Dutch Hollow Lake.

Sauk County Historical Society Public Event Schedule

April 8, 7:00 p.m. at the Museum

Annual William Canfield Day Celebration

Lecture, Peter Shrake on Canfield’s study of Native Americans. Free and open to the public Wm F. Canfield Award presented

May 6, 7:00 p.m. at the Museum

Magic Lantern Show by Verlyn Mueller

Archivist of the Sauk Prairie Area Historical Society

June 2, 6:00 p.m. Founders Day Picnic

Details to be announced in future issues of Old Sauk Trails

June 17, Baraboo Tour of Historic Homes

Details to be announced in future issues of Old Sauk Trails

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter

I AM pleased to report that good things are happening at many levels in the Society. I would like to highlight the good work that is being done by our volunteers including your Board Members who invest a lot of time and energy into making the Society the best it can be. From our docent program to our intern from UW-Baraboo people are stepping up to the plate to help the Society accomplish its goals. It is often the little things that tickle me the most. For example Mark Tully, our new newsletter editor, took the time to redo our masthead (the title bar of this newsletter) and even digitally removed the basswood tree that fell on the house last summer. Mark painstakingly removed the tree and replicated parts from the rest of the drawing to fill in the missing pieces “behind the tree.” The key is people giving what they can. You may not be good at graphic design but if you can alphabetize you could help file newspaper articles or if you can bake you could make treats for the Tour of Historic Homes refreshment table. People often ask me if they “have” to do anything if they become a member. The answer is “no” of course not (besides keeping your dues current that is) but we are happy when members “want” to do something. Give the museum a call and plug in. We’ll find a way you can help keep history alive.

We Care Program

THE Sauk County Historical Society participates in the Pick ‘n Save “We Care” program. The Society’s number is: 700500

When registering for a Pick ’N Save ADVANTAGE PLUS CARD, please support the Society through this matching gift program.

Talk on the Black Hawk War & Blue Mounds at Reedsburg Library

Tuesday, April 18 @ 7PM

JOIN author Robert Birmingham for his presentation at the Reedsburg Library, Tuesday, April 8 at 7 pm. He describes the tragic conflict from the perspective of a frontier lead mining town, Blue Mounds, where the townspeople built a fort to defend against attack. Birmingham will also describe the role that Fort Blue Mounds played in the Black Hawk War and the fascinating and informative results of archaeological excavations at the fort site. The year 2007 marks the 175th anniversary of the Black Hawk War of 1832, a pivotal event in Wisconsin history.

Robert Birmingham is the former Wisconsin State Archaeologist at the Wisconsin Historical Society and is the author of the book Indian Mounds of Wisconsin. He now teaches at the University of Wisconsin-Waukesha and writes on archaeological and historic topics from his home in Madison. His forthcoming book is Aztalan: Northern Outpost of the Mississippian Indians.

Old Sauk Trails

March/April 2006

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

Editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat Ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO Box 651 • Baraboo, WI 53913

Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round

(608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

The Ferry House

By John D. Jones

I REMEMBER the first year a stage-coach, drawn by the first year a drawn four horses, used to pass daily up and down the route [between Baraboo and Madison]; that is, one coach would alternate, with a second one, giving us a daily mail either way.

They hardly even stopped at Merrimack longer than to change the mail, and perhaps patronize the bar, which in those days was considered necessary, to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The frightened would stop, going, or coming; quite often going, so as to get a good start the next day; coming, because they arrived late, and did not want to cross the bluffs in the night; also often travelers in their own outfits would stop for the same reason.

In one way or another, the house would be full to capacity, almost every night and I have often seen so many more than there were beds for, that tickets would be drawn to see who should sleep on the floor.

The rooms were small and without ventilation, except from a door or small window. The beds, corded by a rope running backwards and forwards from pines

in the rails and head pieces, so as to make little squares about nine inches across, a straw tick on this netting of ropes, often filled with musty straw, bed clothing none too thick, completed the bed you slept on. It was not a possibility to keep such a bed free from bugs who preempted every spot about the bed they could hide in, and scalding hot water seemed the only eviction notice they would respect.

Water was so scarce for the lack of cisterns that no one thought of taking a bath, except the face and hands, all winter long, which makes me think of an actual occurrence in my life. While on South Water Street we had a fine old German teamster, and one day the cashier was telling about a bath he had taken, when the old German, with anxiety depicted on his face, said, “Vat, you vet your feet in the Vinter?”

The young man replied, “Yes, I always take a bath at least once a month, you let it go longer than that and you begin to smell.”

Well, in the good old days, they certainly did “smell.” But some one else the next night must occupy

The Merrimack Tavern, located on the north side of the river, was built in 1847. Photographed by H.E. Cole in 1930.

the bed they slept in, as there were no washing machines or laundries in evidence. All the accommodation for washing up before meals was a small wash basin in a little wooden sink, and the waste water ran into a pail under the sink. A single roller towel, so often joked about as the one “twenty men have used before you and never complained of its being dirty”. A comb with most of its teeth extracted, and a hair brush with no more bristles than necessary, dirty from long use, completed the toilet outfit.

The food furnished was coarse, rough fare but plenty of it. The variety was not large. If you “didn’t like the greens you could help yourself to the mustard.” Game could be had in abundance and I have often seen prairie chicken served so plentifully that it was about all the meat on the bill of fare (which was not in much). Buckwheat cakes could be had in any quantity; tea or coffee was always in limitless amount, but dessert was not very frequent, except at the noon meal when pie was generally had, made from any old thing handy, even from green tomatoes.

Liquor was sold at all the taverns, and in some cases they became the loafing place of the town. But the liquor sold and used almost by everyone. Whiskey or rum was the kind most generally called for, and the first thing on arriving was to patronize the bar. Before meals an “appetizer” was necessary, and after meals, a “little stimulant” to digestion, at bed time a “night cap”, and the first thing in the morning an “eye opener.”

Wm. H. Canfield Day, April 8

THE Society will celebrate the sixth annual William H. Canfield Day on Saturday, April 8 at 7:00 p.m. at the Sauk County Historical Museum. The meeting will be held on the eve of the 187th birthday of Sauk County’s earliest and most interesting historian. This year’s program will focus on Canfield’s interest in archaeology and his connections with Wisconsin notables such as Increase Allen Lapham. Peter Shrake, the Society’s Executive Director, will talk about Canfield’s general love of pre-history. During the evening the Society will also present its annual William H. Canfield History Award. Birthday cake and refreshments will round out the evening. Please join us for what promises to be an interesting and informative evening!

This is an edited version of a speech that was given at an Old Settler’s meeting, January 31, 1913. The complete version of this speech may be accessed on the Society’s Web site: www.saukcounty.com.

Artifacts: The Trade Knife

IT IS difficult to imagine the profound impact that the introduction of steel tools had on the Native Americans. Up until first contact with Europeans, a piece of local flint carefully chipped away to a sharp edge was the standard cutting tool of the Native Americans, though more refined knives might be worked further until they fit the hand for a more secure grip (Fig. A) or lashed to a short wooden or bone haft.

Even before European incursions, metal trade knives were not unknown to the Native Americans. Raw copper was being mined in the Lake Superior region, especially on Michigan’s Keweenaw peninsula and Isle Royale, as early as 4,000 BC. The raw copper was heated and pounded out into crude knives, spear points, fish hooks, jewelry and arrow heads (Fig. B), and these items were already being widely traded long before the Europeans made contact with the Native tribes (in fact, the earliest fur trade routes simply followed the ancient copper culture trade system that had already been in use for several centuries). The French in the Northeast, the Dutch, Swedes and English in the mid-Atlantic, the Russians in the Northwest or the Spanish in the south and west, quickly realized that a

by M. Richard Tully

simple steel knife would be highly prized by the aborigines, which made it the perfect trade item.

One of the most common varieties of trade knife was not much more than a common kitchen knife and consisted of a long, flat blade affixed by one or more rivets to a simple antler or wooden handle. The knife tang (an unsharpened integral part of the blade) might extend the entire length of the handle, or, as was much more common, only a few inches into the handle. Blade fragments excavated from numerous 18th-century sites suggest that this was perhaps the most common form of trade knife. The shape of the blade and the material used in the handle varied between the European manufacturers, but this basic, plain knife design remained one of the most popular trade items for almost 300 years—and it still makes a good, durable, multi-purpose knife today!

A 3" long flint knife found in a creek bed near Coon Valley, Wisconsin by the author. It is hard to see in this view, but the flint has been napped in such a way as to fit perfectly in the crease of the palm and around the fleshy part of the thumb of the right hand, offering a very secure grip for skinning or other chores.

B: This 1/2" long knife blade was pounded out of (Sauk County Historical Society). The Wisconsin Historical Society also holds an extensive collection of Lake Superior copper artifacts ous knife blades like this one. Isle Royale was a major mining center since between and it has been said that peace negotiations in Paris, Benjamin Franklin negotiated to include Isle Royale within the boundaries of the United States of America because he was aware of the deposits and thought they might be useful for electrical experiments.

D: Three early trade knives. At top is a French example dating from the 18th century It features an antler gr and an unidentified maker’s mark on the blade (12" overall— author’s collection). In the middle is a similar exa that was found in southcentral Wisconsin. This blade very little wear and may in fact be an early replacement—note the extra set of rivet holes in the handle (Sauk County Historical Soci ). At bottom is a full-tang woodhandled “scalping” knife very similar to one excavated at Fort Michilimackinac and dated c. 1780. This one was found at an old Indian ford along the Baraboo River—just the Sauk County Historical Society (Sauk County Historical Soci ).

Fig. A:

The Story of a Whale Oil lantern

DURING the autumn and winter months as the days get shorter, for many, the disappearing light triggers a sense of melancholy.

Think for a moment about 19th century Sauk County! When our European ancestors came here to make new lives, they undertook a challenge. Building homes, caring for animals, and doing house work were hard tasks. Winter’s short days meant less daylight to accomplish all the work.

Today, a flip of one’s wrist turns on safe, inexpensive electric lighting for most of us. This was not always so. In the not so distant past, reading after dark or finding one’s way at night were difficult tasks.

Depicted is a whale oil lamp owned by early Sauk County pioneer and surveyor William H. Canfield. Between 1800 and 1860, whale oil lamps like this one were considered “high tech” lighting solutions. Most of the early pioneers in Sauk County (before the Civil War) used candles to provide light. Candles weren’t very bright, created a lot of smoke, and the tallow from which most were made had an off-putting smell.

Whale oil lamps burned brightly and were smoke-free compared to candles. Whale oil was made from the rendering of whale blubber. Quickly, humans hunted some whale species to the brink of extinction. In today’s dollars, whale oil would cost close to $200 a gallon!

The high cost of whale oil, and the poor performance of candles, explains the rapid success of kerosene when it entered the market around the time of the Civil War. Oil was discovered in Pennsylvania in the late 1850’s. Within a short time, kerosene lanterns became popular, and dominated the market as a lighting source well into the 20th century. Whale oil lanterns like this one ended up in museums.

by Eleanor Chiquoine

Sauk County has seen a variety of solutions to interior lighting, from firelight, to candles, to whale oil lanterns, to gas lights, and finally to electric lights. In rural areas, kerosene lanterns were used until President Franklin Roosevelt’s Rural Electrification project brought electric lines out to the farms.

During these short winter days, we should all appreciate our easy sources for interior lighting. Knowing the history of interior lighting in Sauk County teaches this: things change. Let’s encourage current and future scientists to work on sources of accessible, safe, and environmentally gentle lighting for the 21st century. Some day the electric lighting we know and love so well today, may be the subject of a historical article in an issue of the Sauk County Historical Society newsletter!

Founders Day

Picnic June 2

DUE to the resounding success of last year’s summer picnic commemorating our 100th anniversary, this year the annual picnic will again be on June 2 to commemorate Founders Day. Although details are still being worked out as to location and menu please mark your calendars for Friday, June 2 for our annual summer picnic. Watch for details in the May/June newsletter.

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

New and Renewed Members

Robert B. Crandall’s Civil War

As is often the case when working in the Collections of the Sauk County Historical Society little gems pop up out of nowhere and take you by surprise. Such is the case of a little diary found in a collection of 19th century Crandall Family Papers. Tucked away among newspaper clippings, personal correspondence, and professional papers was a tattered 3 inch by 4 inch notebook kept by 2nd Lieutenant Robert B. Crandall in the fall of 1863. Crandall, a native of Mississippi, grew up in Baraboo and joined Company F. 23rd Wisconsin Infantry Volunteers in August, 1862. Early on he achieved the rank of 1st Sergeant but by March 1863 he was promoted to 2nd lieutenant for meritorious conduct.

The 23rd Regiment served in the western theater of the Civil War, primarily along the Mississippi River Valley. They served in the Campaign and Siege of Vicksburg, fought in numerous battles including Arkansas Post, and Sabine Cross Roads, and later they participated in the Red River Campaign and in siege operations around Mobile, Alabama.

In the fall of 1863 the regiment was attached to an expedition up the Bayou Tesche in Louisiana. This expedition was one of those forgotten backwater campaigns which permeated the Civil War. This little diary (it is perhaps no longer than 40 pages) is filled with details chronicling not only the campaign but daily mundane routines of Civil War army life. The excerpts shown here were transcribed as they were written; no attempt was made to correct spelling or grammatical errors of the original.

Friday Oct 2

Received orders this P.M. to be ready early in the morning to move for Brashear City. Accordingly traps were all packed and all tents, execpt officers, were struck wrote a letter to Kitty and one to Alice. And all tents are to be turned over except officers tents. Sat 3rd.

Just before noon reg fell in and marched once around camp with accoutrements and equipment, then stacked arms on color line ready to move when ordered

by Peter Shrake

[had] dinner at Mrs. Conrads. At about 4 P.M. recd orders to move on to Transport “North America,” an old Hudson river steamer, walking beam. Runs very still with the additonal quality of running very slow. We landed at Algiers. Opposite N.O. [New Orleans] very late after dark. Did not receive immediate orders to debark, hence the men streched themselves out for a little sleep. At 10 _ o’clock moved off the boat and proceeded to take passage on the cars. When near half the reg. was on, all were ordered to remain until [undecipherable] but companies B & E proceeded to the depot and took shelter under its porjecting eaves. The hard ground, covered with small shells did not make a very comfortable bed. Lt. Stanley and myself were minus our blankets, having sent them with the officers baggage.

Sunday 4th.

Arose a little before sunrise had an early breakfast of potatoes and squash pie which I purchased of a woman. We expected to move at 9 o’clock but the train did’nt arrive on time. While waiting bought a papers, “N. Orleans Times” and read of detention of the two iron clad rams in the Juersey. Also the detention of the ram Florida at Brest by [Menier]. Good news.

The boys found some “spirits” and very soon became “spiritualists” which caused the officers some little trouble in quelling the exhuberant feelings consequent. At 3 P.M. we left for Brashear. It is nothing but swamp the whole line. Every live tree is covered with moss. There are many dead ones supposed to have been killed by the moss. There are many and very large sugar plantations. The crops I should judge are very poor in this season. Arrived at Berwick at 9 o’clock went aboard the ferry boat immediately and landed on the opposite side. Within a few minutes, at Brashear, a very insignificant looking place about 12 houses. The water in the bay is brackish. The bay itself is 3/4 of a mile in breadth and 20 miles in length and the city is at the upper end. The water is poor in the wells being of a little brackish. It is said that our next march is 27 miles in length and not much water on the way.

(Continued on page 4)

The Ghost Village of Oaks

AMONG the ghost villages of Sauk County—White Mound, Sandusky, Loreto, Newport, to name a few—is one that you may not have heard of: the village of Oaks.

It was located in Woodland township (NE 1/4 SW 1/4, Section 36), near Valton. The first post office was established there in the spring of 1857. It was discontinued in January, 1879, and re-established that September. In 1881 it again closed, only to reopen in 1897. It was finally abandoned in 1903.

The village of Oaks was originally settled by Quakers (also known as the Friends) who came to the area in the early 1850’s from Indiana. They settled along the Little Baraboo River in Woodland and Ironton townships. By 1855, there were a sufficient number of pioneer families who had established themselves in the area and a Friends meeting was held in the log cabin of Jabez Brown, along the creek. The following year a small Friends Meetinghouse made of logs, was built near the Oaks schoolhouse. A Sabbath School was also organized.

Having outgrown the small log building, in 1867 a larger accommodation was constructed 3 miles west of Ironton. By 1893 it too became outmoded and was taken down. The Oaks Friends moved back to the original site near the Oaks Cemetery (Co. Hwy. G & Bulin Rd.). There they built a wood frame Meetinghouse. The Oaks Friends membership was eventually transferred to the Valton Friends.

Education of area children was important to the early settlers and to the Quakers, and the Oaks school was initially held in the home of Mark Davis in 1855. A log dwelling was built in 1861. It was replaced in 1899 by a frame building. From 14-25 pupils were taught in the small building. The school was considered one of the best in the county as noted in a 1918 issue of the Reedsburg Times Press

“The best equipped school....[with] up-to-date equipment and teaching. The room was heated by furnace, had slate blackboards, single adjustable chair desks, an organ, Victrola and records, and a reading table.” With consolidation, the Oaks School closed in 1961.

So what is left of the old village of Oaks? Recently, the Socisty’s Executive Director, Peter Shrake, and Bill Schuette, member of the Board of Directors, visited the site. What was found was the stone foundation of the old Friends Meetinghouse, encrusted with lichens, covered with brush and overgrown with trees. The site of the old

by Bill Schuette

schoolhouse, several hundred feet away, wasn’t in much better condition. The old hand pump was still there, but the wood frame walls have collapsed and are strewn about. However, an old creamery building still exists nearby. It was abandoned decades ago and is now used for storage. The once thriving village of Oaks has faded from memory as the decades have rendered it to dust.

The Oaks School as it looked in the 1940's

Peter Shrake inspects the ruins of the Friends church

Sauk County Historical Society — Public Event Schedule —

June 8 - Thursday, 6:00 p.m. Founders Day Picnic Badger Steam and Gas Showgrounds, Sand Road. See page 7 and insert for details.

June 17 - Saturday, Baraboo Tour of Historic Homes

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Six historic Baraboo homes will be open for tour. Call the museum for more details. 356-1001

July 29- Baraboo Old Fashioned Day Volunteer or visit our display on the square.

August 17 - Courthouse Centennial Celebration Festivities on the square celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Sauk County Courthouse including the dedication of the new time capsule.

September 30 - Saturday, Pilgrimage , Centennial Pilgrimage of the Sauk County Historical Society. A recreation of the first public event hosted by the Society. Follow in the footsteps of the Society founders and tour historical sites of the Sauk Prairie area including a walking tour of the Wisconsin Heights Battlefield. Contact the Sauk County Historical Society for further details.

We Care Program

THE Sauk County Historical Society participates in the Pick ‘n Save “We Care” program. The Society’s number is: 700500

When registering for a Pick ’N Save ADVANTAGE PLUS CARD, please support the Society through this matching gift program.

Old Sauk Trails • May/June 2006

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

Editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat Ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO Box 651 • Baraboo, WI 53913

Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round (608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

Executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

Baraboo Tour of Historic Homes

June 17, 2006,

THE seventh Baraboo Tour of Historic Homes will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2006. Six “new” old homes will be on the tour providing a look at craftsmanship from days gone. The homes range in age from 1876 to the early 1900’s and include the Reinking Home on Ash Street which has been in the family since it was built in 1891. The oldest home on the tour was built of brick during America’s centennial year in a charming vernacular style by the Van Sice family. Three homes date from the first decade of the twentieth century and include the home of newspaper editor H. E. Cole who was also the first president of the Sauk County Historical Society, the home of Christian Isenberg, member of the well known family of builders, and the home of Charles Grubb who founded the Humane Stanchion Works. A charming Victorian complete with tower rounds out the tour along with the Van Orden Mansion. Tickets will be $8 in advance and $10 the day of the parade and will be available after May 22 at the museum and ticket outlets in Baraboo and Reedsburg. Call the museum for more details.

Committed to providing solutions for Individuals, Small Businesses & Non-Profits since 1949.

Monday 5th, Could not find my satchel last night, looked all over creation for it. This morning found it with the Adgt of the 60th Ind. But my sash and a pamphlet, “Diary North & South” by Wm Howard Russell, were gone. Some one stole them. Am greatful however that the loss is not greater. Pitched our tents early in the morning. Lt. Stanley and myself comfortably situated with bunk, table and seats. The boys have built themselves little huts with boards from fences and old houses which will make them comfortable in case of rain. Rumors are that we shall move very soon. Wrote letter home and to Ruthie this eve.

Sunday 11th

Rose at sun rise. Mended shirt then wrote a letter to Kittie + [Marrion] each. P.M. wrote to Alice. Dress parade this eve. Gen Ord present He criticized our manual of carry arms.

Monday 12th

Had battalion drill in manual of arms this morning. Also assisted Lt. Stanley in making out Ordnance Returns for 3rd quarter. P.M. Reced orders to move our camp to better [locality] this [evening] had dress parade. It is said that Gens Frank and Banks have returned to [New Orleans] to make some further arrangements and that we shall ramain here until they return.

Thursday 15th

While on Battalion Drill this mourning Reced orders to move withing ten minutes notice with two days rations. We prepared accordingly and moved within an hours and a half from the time we reced the order. I, at first, supposed we were ordered to support the 19th Corps as they were then fighting some 13 miles distant. But we guarded the supply train. Perhaps it was for both these objects we were ordered out. [However] the enemy soon fled not being in large force. Our brigade lay in line of battle on the battle ground of the morning, during the night.

Friday 16th

The Col. (Guppey) anticipating a flank attack had is up at 4 o’clock and ordered breakfast immediately. But Col Owen, commdg the Brig. seeing the fires ordered them to be put out until daylight. Late in the morning we were ordered to camp a little in advance on our bivouac and while we were forming line for camp our cavalry videttes were driven by the enemy. Genl. Burbridge anticipated an attack in force and ordered us to remian in line of battle most of the day. Two or three regts. of cavalry were sen to to recconoiter and a section of the 17th Ohio Battery. Reports agree that there was not more than 100 Rebs in P.M. we were ordered to pitch tents. A little [rain] all day.

Saturday 17th Rose at daylight this morning. I was officer of picket from our regt. As we were about to form to move to Brig. Hd. Qrs. We had orders for regt to form line. The alarm had arisen from a N.Y. Regt discharging their pieces when relieved from picket. This was a piece of flagrant imprudence. A second of the kind would demand severe punishment. I am now on picket. The weather indicates rain. The wind is very strong from S. by W. Finished and sealed letter to Alice, ready for mail before starting. We are picketed in the edge of a broad prairie six or eight miles in diameter. It will be impossible for the enemy to surprise us if we are vigilant.

Sunday 18th

Relieved from picket about 10 a.m. It rained some during the night though it was not very unpleasant. Soon after I returned to camp we had orders to change camps immediately. Having an opportunity of mail letters I deposited the one I had written Alice and while the regt. Was moving to its new location I wrote half a sheet home. Immediately after tatto, there was some picket firing which was deemed sufficient to keep us in line for the length of an hour. Mail came late and I recived a letter from Kittie and the “Baraboo Republic.” We learn, too, that we have been deceived in regard to Rosecran’s victories. He still remains at Chattanooga.

Monday 19th

At noon reced orders to move out on a [reconnoiter] with the 34th Indiana and a considerable amount of cavalry. We moved north out of the Opelusas road and encountered the enemy three miles distant. We had a sharp skirmish in which we had one horse killed and three or four men wounded. They took shelter in a ravine in the woods from which we could not move them not having force enough at night fall we moved back to camp.

Crandall remained with the 23rd Regiment through out the war, eventually mustering out in July 1865. After the war he married Alice Knight (the Alice mentioned in the diary), raised two sons, including Morris Crandall, a longtime, early secretary of the Sauk County Historical Society. Crandall worked for the local school system serving as principal for several graded schools and eventually becoming Superintendent of Sauk County Schools. Later in life he moved to Olympia, Washington, where he died in 1901.

William Canfield Award Presented

ON Saturday April 8, at 7:00 p.m. the Sauk County Historical Society hosted its annual William Canfield Day celebration. Society Director Peter Shrake spoke on Canfield’s study of Native Americans. The Society honors a local historian with the prestigious William Canfield Award. This award is given to an individual in recognition for their outstanding efforts to record or preserve Sauk County History. Past winners of the award have been Bob Dewel, Ken Lange, Erhart Mueller, and Phyllis Dearborn.

This year the award was presented, posthumously, to Carol Sorg. Carol’s efforts at preserving Sauk County history are well known. She was an active member of the Society, serving on the Board of Directors and participating in nearly every aspect of Society operations. A founding and active member of the Badger History Group, Carol assisted with the research and writing of many books including, Good Old Golden Rule Days, Many a Fine Harvest, and Powder People and Place: The Badger Army Ammunition Plant and the Sauk Prairie Carol was also an author in her own right, publishing histories of St. Mary’s Ringling Convent and Hospital. The award was accepted by Board Member Bob and Patti Brown on behalf of Carol’s son Jeff who could not attend the celebration.

1855 United States Flag

by Peter Shrake

THOUGH Cassell Prairie is now a ghost town with only a road, a lilac hedge, and cemetery to remind us of its existence, there remains, amongst the collections of the Sauk County Historical Society, a relic of the people who once called that small community home. It is a flag. A fairly large U.S. flag, measuring 6 by 8 feet. It was made by a group of perhaps half a dozen ladies for the Forth of July Celebrations in 1855. Sewn by hand and containing only 16 stars, the flag was made more for its size rather than its accuracy. It was hoisted up on a pole and placed atop one of the mighty bluffs which line the edge of the old community.

The Flag was donated to the Sauk County Historical Society in 1908. It is occasionally on public display or can be seen by making a special appointment at the Sauk County Historical Museum.

Prison Inmates Build Model of Van Orden Mansion

TWO years ago, Paul Wolter sent a set of blueprints of the Van Orden mansion to the Waupun Correctional Institution, hoping that creating a model of the building would be something the inmates might wish to undertake. That request is being fulfilled and the model is nearing completion. Recently, Wolter, Peter Shrake and Bill Schuette visited the prison, and were given a tour of the educational facilities by Educational Director, Amy Reid. As part of their rehabilitation, inmates are trained in various trades, such as carpentry, electrical, and as a sideline, they produce many different works of art created in wood.

The model is on a scale of 3/4" to the foot and all the materials used in these projects are recycled from other sources. The wood is obtained from old shipping pallets. Wallpaper and carpets are leftovers from other projects. Currently, one inmate is working on the model, and he spends 5 to 6 hours a day cutting and carving the wood, and gluing segments together. Jim Wimberger is the civilian instructor who is in charge of the woodworking shop. One unusual aspect of the model is that it conforms to the “original” blueprints. However, when the real mansion was built, the carpenters did not follow the blueprints to the letter. Changes were made to various rooms as they went along, most likely following instructions from Mr. Van Orden.

The Van Orden mansion model is scheduled for completion later this summer and will be placed on display when it arrives.

WWI Project Help Needed

by Peter Shrake

IN a past issue we told you about our World War I letter project. During World War 1, H. E. Cole editor of the Baraboo Daily News urged service men and women to write to the paper. He also urged the families of those in service to bring their letters to the paper so he could publish them. A number of those letters ended up in the museum archives. We have transcribed all the letters in our files from these soldiers and are preparing them for publication on our website.

But we need your help. In addition to the letters we want to include a brief biography of the letter writers. We know there are a lot of excellent genealogical researchers out there. Can some of you help us track down what happened to our writers? If you are interested in helping, email or call us and we will assign you one of our letter writers to research.

There are other ways you can help too. Since our last discussion of this project we have received the WWI diary of a dentist in Baraboo, Dr. Stekl, and the medal he won from the French government, the Croix de Guerre. Dr. Stekl’s diary, a photo of his medal and the article Dr. Bob Dewel, another Baraboo dentist, wrote about him will all be a part of the exhibit thanks to Dr. Stekl’s family and Dr. Dewel. We are looking for other letters, diaries and artifacts we can add to this electronic display. If you have something we can add to this collection, please let us know. While donations are always appreciated, loans are fine since for this electronic display we don’t need to keep your artifact. We will scan or photograph it and the original will be returned to you.

We Need Your Help!

Peter Shrake, Paul Wolter and Education Director, Amy Reid, examine the Van Orden mansion model being constructed at the Waupun Correctional Institution.

DO you like to garden? The Society is looking for volunteers who are willing to tend the flower beds surrounding the Van Orden Mansion. All tools and supplies will be provided for you, but we need people who will plant flowers, tend and water them through out the year. If you are interested please call Executive Director Peter Shrake at the museum at 356-1001.

Beach Reading Founders Day Picnic, June 8th

SO what are you reading this summer? Consider tucking a local history into the beach bag. There are many great books for sale at the museum. The first book in the Sumpter series, Only in Sumpter has been reprinted and is available for sale. This book was so popular in its first edition that it convinced Erhart Mueller to write four more books on rural life in eastern Sauk County. Even if your family does not have its roots there, you will find any of the Sumpter books engaging reading.

Since you may be out and about enjoying the great outdoors consider one of Ken Lange’s books. His latest, A Naturalist’s Journey, is about the men and women who influenced and befriended Lange in his year’s as the naturalist at Devil’s Lake. He has other books on Devil’s Lake and A County Called Sauk, his general history of Sauk County.

There are many more great books available from the society. You can order by sending a check for the price of the book plus $4 for shipping and we’ll get your book out to you in time to make it to the shore. Check the Society website at www.saukcounty.com to see more.

Reedsburg Historical Society Annual Barbecue

THE REEDSBURG HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S annual chicken barbeque will be Sunday, May 28, at the Pioneer Log Village Museum east of Reedsburg, on Hwy 33. The public is invited. The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays 1-4 p.m., beginning on Memorial Day throughout the summer months.

THE Sauk County Historical Society will have its annual summer picnic on Thursday, June 8, 2006 at 6 p.m. at the Badger Steam and Gas Show Grounds on Sand Road. Geffert’s Catering of Reedsburg will be making a delicious picnic dinner including pork and beef sandwiches, fresh fruit salad, wild rice salad, baked beans and German potato salad. Anniversary cake will round out the evening. Please plan on joining us! Tickets are $10 per person and reservations can be made by filling out the enclosed flyer.

Intern At SCHS

THIS spring we are pleased to have Jeremy Hansen, a student at the University of Wisconsin-Baraboo/ Sauk County, working at the museum as an intern. Every spring we are fortunate to have students from the University intern here. Their work has collectively made significant strides in the organization and cataloging of our archival collections. Jeremy is no exception. For much of the spring he has diligently cataloged over 300 music records and is currently wading through 30 boxs of documents relating to the Badger Army Ammunition Plant. The Society is indebted to Dr. Michael Jacobs, professor of history at the University. Dr. Jacobs selects each intern for the Society. Jeremy will be leaving the Society at the end of May. The Society wishes him all the best and extends a heartfelt thanks for all his hard work.

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

New and Renewed Members

THE following are new members or members that have renewed since March 2006.

Sponsor

Karl and Melanie Burgi, Baraboo WI

Wayne Hatz, Baraboo WI

Dave and Diane Pietenpol, Green Bay WI

Helen Saloutos, Baraboo WI

Eric Lewison, Baraboo WI

Supporting

Ken and Esther Lange, Baraboo WI

Audrey Wendt, Baraboo WI

Robert and Louise Yeck, Silver Springs MD

Dean and Jean Friday, Austin TX

Marnie Krainik, Waukesha WI

Lawrence and Catherine Senger, Baraboo WI

Lyle and June Coates, Baraboo WI

Anne and Jeff Smith, Baraboo WI

Friend

Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne IN

Susan Bock, Cincinnati OH

Dan and Sandy Edwards, Baraboo WI

Dean and Judy Brice, Baraboo WI

Couple

Gerald and Audrey Belter, Florence AZ

Robert and Patti Brown, Merrimac WI

Ken and Mary Grant, Baraboo WI

Charles and Donna Green, Baraboo WI

Marvin and Barbara Juliar, Evanston IL

Jim and Marilyn Karch, Baraboo WI

Janet and Clair Keylock, Baraboo WI

Walter and Debra Klaetsch, North Freedom WI

Jeanne and Edward Kurtz, Baraboo WI

Steve and Libby Rundio, Baraboo WI

Neil and Lucille Thompson, Baraboo WI

Harold & Audrey Hein, Baraboo WI

Terry and Patricia Turnquist, Baraboo WI

Ralph and Carol Zahnow, Middleton WI

Jerry & Ellen Dargel, Baraboo WI

Paul and Judy Washam, Baraboo WI

Russell and Anita Hantzsch, Hales Corners WI

Robert and Joyce Breen, Hartford WI

Cyril and Mary Dickeman, Reedsburg WI

John McKnight, Evanston IL

David and Diane Mueller, Cloquet MN

Tom and Sue Jenks, Baraboo WI

Paula Hanskett, Baraboo WI

Individual

Craig Caflisch, Baraboo WI

John Fletcher, Baraboo WI

Henrietta Marini, Baraboo WI

Barb Naidl, Baraboo WI

Catharine Ostlind, Merrimac WI

Paula Rice, Muskegon MI

Alan Scoles, Witchita KS

Sandra Stiemke, Loganville WI

Leota Bellows, Baraboo WI

Mike Wolcott, Hartland WI

Ronald Bauer, Reedsburg WI

Brenda Holloway, Baraboo WI

Carol Birch, Baraboo WI

Marilyn Rohde, Baraboo WI

Bobbie Wickus, Baraboo WI

Sharen Grimsley, Pacolet SC

Judy De Jong, Ames IA

Jim Michaels, Chicago IL

Daniel Quandt, Baraboo WI

Robert Schultz, Waukesha WI

Guy Porth, Milwaukee WI

Bill Droster, Beaver Dam WI

Shirley Spees, Baraboo WI

Richard Johnson, LaValle WI

Karin Weiss, Tigard OR

Lindy Larsen, Baraboo WI

Eileen Lambert, Campbell CA

Judy Colden, Middleton WI

Wava Vertein, North Freedom WI

Joan Anderson, Pardeeville WI

Betty Cook, Clarksville TN

Court House Turns 100!

The night of December 27, 1904 was seemingly routine as John harris closed up the saloon he tended on the south side of the square in Baraboo. Although bitter cold the night was like countless before until something caught the attention of the bartender as he started for home. The old brick courthouse, which had stood across the street for nearly fifty years, was on fire. In a matter of hours the hallowed but aged structure was gutted with only the outer brick walls left standing. The dramatic event marked the end of Sauk County’s third courthouse. Fortunately, just the month before, the County Board had decided to build a new courthouse in its place. Unfortunately, it would be a year and a half until the new stone-clad building was finished.

Sauk County’s first two court houses were built of wood with the first one being constructed in Sauk

By Paul Wolter

County’s original county seat, Prairie du Sac, in 1845. It was a two story Greek Revival style structure which was later used as a school before being sold and moved. After the county seat was moved to Baraboo in 1847 a new courthouse similar in design and size to the first was built on the north side of the square. It was finished in 1848 along with a log jail, which was more of a nuisance than an asset to the young county. Sauk County’s first two attempts at a courthouse were seen as temporary structures to be replaced with a more substantial building when the county could afford it.

The brick court house built in the center of the square in Baraboo during 1855 and 1856 permanently settled years of debate as to where the county seat should be and put Sauk County on the map as an up and coming county. The structure was restrained in decoration

(Continued on page 2)

Court House

(from page one)

but included a cupola on the roof and stone porticoes at each entrance. The building was enlarged in 1884 but by the turn of the century more space was needed and the building was showing signs of its age. Large cracks had developed in the brick walls and the drafty building often gave citizens colds when they served on the jury for trials. Several years of debate culminated in the vote for a new $100,000 courthouse in November of 1904. The new building would be designed by prominent Milwaukee architects, Ferry & Clas, with Alfred Clas of the firm being a county native.

The courthouse’s completion in 1906 marked the end of pioneer times and the entry of Sauk County into the modern era. The new building which has served the county now for 100 years was filled with all of the technological conveniences of the day including electricity, steam heat with thermostats, fire proof vaults and modern plumbing. Although the county has built new buildings to accommodate the growth of county government the 1906 courthouse still stands as the architectural centerpiece of the county and provides a link to Sauk County’s unique past.

August 2006 marks the official 100th anniversary of the Sauk County Court house. The Sauk County historical Society will assist in the celebration this summer at the Court house Centennial event on August 17.

If you’re having déjà vu and asking “didn’t we celebrate the court house last year?” the answer is “yes” and “no.” Last summer’s event in July marked the anniversary of the beginning of construction on the courthouse, which took over a year to complete. The 1905 cornerstone was opened last year to retrieve the time capsule placed there when the courthouse was going up. The event this summer on Thursday, August 17, 2006 at 6 p.m. will be the final celebration marking the completion of the building 100 years ago. The evening will include original musical numbers written and performed by Chris Powers celebrating the courthouse and early Sauk County justice. The original time capsule contents will be on display as well as those that will be placed in a new time capsule to be sealed in the cornerstone for the next 100 years. Remarks will also be made by the honorable Judge evenson and the evening will be concluded with the Concert on the Square with musical numbers from the Quartzite Brass Quintet. A new publication and exhibit in the courthouse regarding all four of Sauk County’s courthouses will also be debuted.

President’s Report

by Paul Wolter

What do you get when you mix one June day with six historic homes, twelve home owners, over eighty volunteers and scores of adoring fans? The Baraboo Tour of historic homes. This year’s tour on June 17th was the sixth tour hosted by the Society and the seventh it has been involved with since 1993. Over 38 privatelyowned historic Baraboo homes have been opened to the public in the past 13 years highlighting the love and hard work that home owners have spent on their homes. On behalf of the Society I would like to thank everyone who made this year’s tour a success including our new sponsors, Senger Lumber, LaMasney Construction and The Furniture Loft. Our volunteers, who staff the homes are also indispensable and I would like to thank them all. The Baraboo News Republic, Wisconsin State Journal and WRDB Radio are also to be thanked for their support in advertising the event. Most importantly I would like to thank the home owners who let us into their homes to see their efforts in keeping a part of Baraboo’s heritage preserved. Private homes, which make up the majority of any community’s buildings, are what give a place its character. each one has a different story to tell about why it is there and why it looks the way it does. All of these stories add up to make a community unique. The Society looks forward to showing more houses in the future and thanks everyone including the attendees for making this year’s tour a success.

Sauk County Historical Society — Public Event Schedule —

July 29- Baraboo Old Fashioned Day

Volunteer or visit our display on the square.

August 17 - Courthouse Centennial Celebration Festivities on the square celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Sauk County Courthouse including the dedication of the new time capsule. 6:00 pm.

August 18, 19, 20 - Badger Steam and Gas Show

The Society will again have a weekend-long display at the Badger Steam and Gas Show. We need volunteers to help staff the display on all three days. If you are interested in helping out please call the Sauk County historical Museum at 356-1001.

September 30 - Saturday, Pilgrimage

Centennial Pilgrimage of the Sauk County historical Society. A recreation of the first public event hosted by the Society. Follow in the footsteps of the Society founders and tour historical sites of the Sauk Prairie area including a walking tour of the Wisconsin heights Battlefield. Contact the Sauk County historical Society for further details.

We Care Program

The Sauk County historical Society participates in the Pick ‘n Save “We Care” program. The Society’s number is: 700500

When registering for a Pick ’N Save ADVANTAGe PLUS CARD, please support the Society through this matching gift program.

Old Sauk Trails • July/August 2006

The Sauk County historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat Ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO Box 651 • Baraboo, WI 53913

Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round

(608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

Badger History Group

The Badger history Group is continuing to collect photos and artifacts relative to the history of the Powder Plant. The group was recently highlighted in an edition of the eXChANGe, published by the Wisconsin historical Society. The eXChANGe article focused on a new statewide project, titled Wisconsin heritage Online (WhO). The goal of the project is to digitize important historical and cultural archival collections and make them available to the general public via the internet. Though digitizing the vast Badger Archive collection is a long way from becoming a reality the BhG and representatives from WhO explored the possibilities of digitally preserving the important collections found at Badger.

Reedsburg Library

www.scls.lib.wi.us/ree

The library has a collection of CD - ROMs that contain digital images of 19th and 20th Century photographs of the Reedsburg area. These discs were produced in 1999 through an extensive project whereby pictures from various local history collections were scanned, organized, and indexed.

Turlington’s Balsam of Life by

The Sauk County historical Society’s collection includes a tiny, bluish glass bottle that is embossed on the faces and sides with the phrase “BY The KINGS ROYAL PATeNT GRANTeD TO / ROBT TURLINGTON FOR hIS INVeNTeD BALSOM OF LIFe / JANY 26 1754 / LONDON”

This is a patent medicine bottle. In fact, it is The patent medicine bottle, as Robert Turlington was one of the first to obtain a Royal Patent from King George II to protect his right as the exclusive manufacturer and distributor of this particular medicine.

Turlington’s Balsam of Life first appeared around 1744 as a “cure” for wounds and gout (The Gentleman’s Magazine, August, 1748). It was originally manufactured and sold on Lombard Street, London, at a cost of one shilling and nine pence per bottle (about $18 in today’s currency). The distinctive Turlington’s bottle, which was intended as deterrent to imitators, was patented in 1754, and the royal patent was actually granted for the bottle and not the medicine it contained.

Turlington’s Balsam of Life was very popular in its day and was being sold in the American colonies as early as 1763, when Paul Revere advertised in The Connecticut Gazette that he had imported a supply of Turlington’s and a dozen other patent medicines. By 1768 Turlington’s was being advertised in Philadelphia (the second largest city on the British empire), and it quickly found its way to the American frontier—a completely intact Turlington’s bottle was found at the site of Fort Michilimackinac which was an active military and fur trade post under both the French (1715-1760) and British (1760-1778). Balsams were very common over-the-counter medicines throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. John Quincy’s Pharmacopoeia Officialis & Extemporanea, or, A Complete English Dispensatory (London, 1769) lists numerous balsams, including Turlington’s, and William Buchan (1729-1805) described how to make “The Vulnerary Balsam” (identical to Turlington’s) in his 1789 edition of Domestic Medicine or the Family Physician. Of this particular balsam, Buchan states that it:

“…is applied externally to heal recent wounds and bruises. It is likewise employed internally to remove coughs, asthmas, and other complaints of the breast. It was also said to ease the colic, cleanse the kidnies [sic], and to heal internal ulcers, etc.” (Buchan, pp 657-658).

M. Richard Tully

In 1824, The Journal of Philadelphia College of Pharmacy published the formulas for eight of the most popular patent medicines of the day; Anderson’s Scots Pills, Bateman’s Pectoral Drops, British Oil, Dalby’s Carminative, Godfrey’s Cordial, h ooper’s Female Pills, Steer’s Opodeldoc, and Turlington’s Balsam of Life. The formula for Turlington’s is listed as: benzoin, 6 ounces; liquid storax, 2 ounces; Socotrine aloes, 1/2 ounce; Peruvian balsam, 1 ounce; myrrh, 1/2 ounce; angelica root, 2 drachms; Balsam of tolu, 2 ounces; extract of liquorice, 2 ounces; alcohol, 4 pints. Mix, digest for 10 days, and strain (Journal of Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, Vol. V, p. 28, 1824).

This formula has been simplified somewhat, but it is still commonly available today under the name of Compound Tincture of Benzoin.

Turlington’s Balsam of Life was manufactured for more than 150 years (from 1744 to 1906), and although the design of the bottle changed slightly over the years, the patent date of 1754 was never modified. Subsequently, it is often difficult to precisely date these unusual, highly collectible bottles.

The earliest bottles have a more pronounced “violin” shape, a pronounced pontil on the bottom (a rough area where the glass blower snapped off his rod after blowing the molten glass into a mold) and thin, applied lip. They became more squat and blocky by the end of the 18th century, and advances in manufacturing techniques during the early 19th century led to bottles with a smooth base and a thicker, tooled lip.

The Turlington’s Balsam of Life bottle in the Sauk County historical Society collection is of the more blocky style. It features a tooled lip and has no pontil, plus it is rather crudely made with many small bubbles, imperfections and unevenness in the glass. The older spelling of “Balsom” is also seen. These various details all suggest that this particular bottle dates from the early 19th century, probably circa 1820.

Bottle shown actual size.

AMERICAN STEAM MUSIC

Tuesday, September 26, 2006 at 7:00 p.m.

At The Sauk County Historical Society 531 4th Avenue, Baraboo, Wisconsin

In 1856, a Yankee inventor perfected his idea for a musical instrument that utilized steam to make music.

The “calliope” was originally envisioned as a safety device for locomotives and steamboats, but it became an icon of the circus, river packets, excursion steamboats, and the floating theater.

Fifty years later, the portable air calliope was developed to provide music in additional venues. No other place on earth has embraced this musical novelty that embodies American character.

The intriguing story of the calliope is celebrated in this sesquicentennial tribute presentation.

ThiS evenT iS free and open To The public.

Sponsored by Wisconsin Humanities Council & Sauk County Arts, Humanities, and Historic Preservation Committee. For more information call 355-3274

Fred Dahlinger, Jr. is the director of the world's largest circus archive. his credits include three books and over 60 articles, a video documentary, and two compact discs. he has also appeared as an authority in other documentaries and has been quoted in numerous national publications. Dahlinger is particularly interested in outdoor musical instruments and the specialized art forms developed by traveling shows, amusement parks, and World's Fair midways.

www.scls.lib.wi.us/baraboo

The Baraboo Public Library has The Baraboo News Republic on microfilm beginning in 1855, indexes to births, deaths and marriages, Sauk County histories, older Sauk County directories, phone books and numerous other local history information.

First Civil War Statue Plan was Controversial

by Bob Dewel

FOR over a century the very excellent statue of a Civil War soldier has stood guard over the Courthouse square. This beautiful granite monument was made possible by an original grant of $1000 by the ladies of the Women's Relief Corps No. 36. Catherine Cheek, wife of war veteran Philip Cheek, was president, and a joint committee was set up with the men's veterans group, the Grand Army of the Republic (Joe hooker Post 9). Joe Bender headed the latter group.

Dedication was on May 30, 1897, with a huge crowd present. The monument represented efforts from all over the county, and honors all of the county's soldiers. Amazingly, Sauk County, with a population of only 20,154, contributed 1461 men to the war effort, of whom 285 died from all causes while in the service of the Union.

On Monday June 1, 1896 the joint committee had decided upon a base of Barry granite with a total height of 29 feet, and a total weight of 82,000 pounds. The lower base was to be 9x9 and 8 inches thick, the second base 7.4 x 7.4, the third base 6.2 x 6.2, and the fourth base, just below the statue was 4.6 x 4.6. The statue was to be six feet in height, and at that time the figure of a soldier was ordered to be of bronze.

Apparently the latter specification was changed to granite, a wise move it would seem. The committee had done its work well, and the monument remains imposing after a century of weathering. Several benches complement the setting of the statue, those benches having been dedicated on June 9, 1940 by the Sons of the Civil War Veterans, the Ladies Auxiliary to the Sons, and the by now aged ladies of the GAR Auxiliary.

What we didn't know until recently was that a previous statue proposal had been voted down! The supplement to The Baraboo Republic tersely states that, "Along in the seventies an effort was made to erect a monument under the provisions of the state statutes, and the proposition was submitted to a vote of the people, and voted down."

Nearly two decades passed until folks took matters into their own hands, as happens so often in smaller governmental districts. Volunteer groups saw to it that the Civil War sacrifices were honored. Lest we be too critical of those times, it took us 60 years and a mostly

volunteer effort to memorialize the defining event of the 20th century, WWII. Only in the year, 2004, was a national monument opened.

The Tallow Dip

Written for the Sauk County historical Society by N. G. Abbott, eureka Springs, Arkansas April 4, 1918

IN the old days on the farm before the advent of coal oil, the tallow dip was the universal source of light at our house, although in case of emergency a “slut” was extemporized for the time being. A “slut” consisted of a quantity of lard in a saucer, in which a bit of cotton cloth was partly submerged to form a wick in imitation of the ancient egyptian lamp. Preparation for the important event of candle dipping began on the evening before the great day, by getting out the “candle rods,” twenty-four in number, and placing the “wicks” thereon. The “candle rods” were whittled out of straight-grained pine, and were about three-eights of an inch in diameter and eighteen inches in length. A quantity of wicking was wound about a bake tin, and this skein on being cut gave enough wicks of the required length when doubled to form the candles—one hundred forty-four in number. A candle rod was now placed beneath the knees and a length of wick looped around it and the ends twisted slightly. Five more were added in the same way, and the balance of the rods also received six wicks. Candle dipping day was a day of great physical discomfort for me, for it meant an extra early rising in a house filled with the nauseating odor of melted tallow, a slim breakfast, a warmed over dinner and a lunch for supper. But luckily it only happened once a year. The bunch of wicks was first dipped in the melted tallow all together, then the surplus tallow was squeezed out and each one straightened and placed about two inches from its neighbor on the rod. The rods were then placed on a rack consisting of two light poles supported on chairs in the “back room”.

Meanwhile the wash boiler had been prepared near by full of warm water and was now placed near the rack. On the surface of the water a quantity of melted tallow was poured, and everything was then ready for the “dipping.” This consisted in taking the rods, one at a time and lowering the wicks into the melted tallow, withdrawing them at once, not too quickly, that they might receive a thin coating of the same. This process was repeated until about 4 o’clock in the afternoon, and then the lower ends of the yet immature candles, having assumed a pointed shape, were dressed up to a blunt shape with the shears. Dipping was then continued until along in the evening, when the candles were tried in a candle stick and when large enough, were removed from the rods and

placed in a box, the rods put away and all evidence of the day’s labor removed, after which a very tired woman went to bed with a supreme feeling of satisfaction, that she had provided her humble home with light for another year, at the trifling cost of a few cents for wicking and tallow. It was by this humble light that mother spun the yarn from which our clothing was made, and sewed and mended the same by its feeble rays. It was by this light the thrilling tales in the old “New York Ledger” were read aloud by some member of the family during the long winter evenings, while the others were busily engaged in sewing and knitting. It was a light fitted to the humble home we occupied, but with my mother’s death the light was extinguished forever.

July/August, 2006

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

New and Renewed Members

van Orden Circle

Robert and Diana hrabovsky, Whichita Falls TX

Benefactor

John and elizabeth Davenport, Minnetonka MN

Sponsor

Betty Thiessen, Baraboo WI

Sue Patterson, Gainesville FL

Friend

Dennis and Kathleen Thurow, Baraboo WI

Family

Ray and hazel Bayley, Madison WI

Larry McCoy & Keri Olson, Baraboo WI

Ben and Inez Stewart, West Baraboo WI

Steve and heidi Swenson, Baraboo WI

Ron and Janet Brandt, elgin IL

erwin Uecker & Ross Walker, Milwaukee WI

Gib Gail and Thomas Bird, Baraboo WI

Beverly and Pat Cabbage, Spokane WA

Bob and Vi Tully, Baraboo WI

individual

Susi Fathaue, Phoenix AZ

Jean Smith, Baraboo WI

Dale Jaedike, North Freedom WI

Marjorie hankins, Newmarket ON

Bonita Bryant, Guilderland NY

Dorothy Williams, Baraboo WI

Gene Setwyn, Reedsburg WI

Richard Dipping, Reedsburg WI

Cynthia Kauffman, Baraboo WI

Joan McArthur, Baraboo WI

Robert Beeson Jr,. Frankfort IL

Tom Nelson, Vancouver WA

Susan Bingler, Jeffersonton VA

Margaret Shannon, Tampa FL

Susan helf, Seattle WA

Joan Ryan, Lodi WI

Victorian Christmas Open House December 9

The annual Victorian Christmas Open house returns to the Van Orden Mansion for its seventh year with live music, carriage rides and decorated trees on Saturday, December 9, 2006 from 12-8 p.m. The Van Orden Mansion which houses the Sauk County historical Museum will be decked out for the holidays with 12 Christmas trees decorated by area businesses and individuals including Amber Moon, Bekah Kate’s, The Village Booksmith, An Siopa eire, DReAMS, King Louie’s Java Stop and Dave Saloutos, as well as Society volunteers. From 12-2 p.m horse-drawn carriage rides will shuttle people between the mansion and downtown Baraboo, and from 2-4 p.m. carriage rides will be given around the block from in front of the mansion. Inside, a variety of musicians will provide holiday music throughout the day and the dining room will be filled with holiday goodies. The holiday dessert table will be anchored by a gingerbread creation of the Martin Foley house at 426

Second Street in Baraboo. The 1899 Queen Anne style house complete with two story turret will be recreated in gingerbread thanks to the assistance of Salecker’s Baraboo Bäckerei. A smaller gingerbread house based on the Foley house will also be raffled off along with other Christmas items. The Society invites you to come and experience the splendor of Christmas past and make the Victorian Christmas Open house part of your holiday activities. Society members are asked to post the flyer found inside this newsletter to help advertise the event, which is open to the public.

Pam Krainik, and Kay Salecker (above, left to right), discuss this year’s gingerbread house model before disassembling the 50 pieces which will make up the pattern for the gingerbread recreation of the 1899 Foley House in Baraboo (at left).

Executive Directors Report by

AS 2006 comes to a close, we can look back on a year of excitement, and achievement. New exhibits have been built in the Van Orden Mansion. We have had many successful events. The Parade of homes was one of the best ever and the Baraboo Tour of historic haunts exceeded all expectations. We have also reached a significant milestone. All of our collections catalogs have been entered onto a computer database. That is 100 years worth of catalogs, over 12,000 entries!

All of our achievements could not have been possible if it were not for a strong, steady corps of volunteers. Forty hard working dedicated people have contributed over 1500 hours worth of talent and energy to make our Society run.

We have people like Nijole etzweiler who is leading our Special events Committee. Nijole and her committee are responsible for several events including the Parade of homes and the haunted Tour. Kathy Shrake has taken on the daunting task of typing our old hand written catalog records into a searchable database. Kathy also has had to deal with countless different, and sometimes illegible hand writing styles, including her son’s.

Volunteers like Jean Smith have come to the museum on a weekly basis for years, Jean helps out with nearly every part of our operations from conducting

Peter Shrake

research and staffing public events to watering Christmas Trees. Paul Washam has taken it upon himself to completely reorganize, inventory, and catalog our entire military archive. Sue Johnson is one of a handful of amazing typists that have spent hundreds of hours transcribing original manuscripts for future inclusion on our website. The list goes on and on.

But we need help! Please consider joining our volunteer corps. We need help not only in the collections, but also with the daily routine. Though it may seem unglamourous, we desperately need help cleaning the museum. They say that first impressions are the most important. Maintaining a museum that looks orderly and clean is perhaps one of the most important yet underappreciated jobs we have at the Society. Just one cleaning session a month is all it would take.

We also need greeters to man the front door, greet our guests, introduce them to the house, and perhaps lead guided tours. We also desperately need someone to photocopy and mail materials to our transcribers. Volunteering at the museum is both rewarding and easy. Simply call the museum and ask for Peter Shrake. By volunteering, regardless of the task, you are playing a very important role in preserving our county’s heritage and creating a better museum for visitors and members.

Wisconsin Heights Pilgrimage

ON September 30, eleven adventure seekers braved what promised to be a cold rainy day in order to recreate the first pilgrimage of the Sauk County historical Society. The event began at the museum, where guests viewed several collections that were actually seen by the original 1906 participants. Then Society executive Director Peter Shrake delivered a brief overview of the participants in the Black hawk war, showcasing what the soldiers wore and the equipment they carried.

The group then made their way to Prairie du Sac where they spent a brief moment at Marion Park( a destination point for the 1906 tour). They then repaired to the Blue Spoon Creamery Café where, during lunch, Society President Paul Wolter read the 1906 address given to that early group by Charles e. Brown, Secretary of the Wisconsin Archeological Society. Brown wrote a detailed paper noting the exact location of the Wisconsin heights battlefield. After lunch, Shrake took the travel-

ers to the back patio of the restaurant and provided a general overview of the Black hawk War, highlighting the events leading up to the battle. The group then went to the battlefield where Shrake led them on a 2 mile hike over the battleground. By the time the group got to the battlefield the weather had cleared providing a beautiful sunny afternoon for hiking.

Sauk County Historical Society

D Public Event Schedule d

Victorian Open House

December 9, 12:00-8:00 pm

Tour the Van Orden Mansion to see 12 different Christmas trees plus live music, carriage rides and refreshements. For more information call 356-1001

Kristen Reynoso, Assistant Manager of Slumberland, presents one of three ornamental carpets to Sauk County Historical Society Executive Director Peter Shrake. "The Society is grateful for this donation," said Shrake. The historical society has been slowly converting selected rooms of the historic Jacob Van Orden Mansion to their original 1903 appearance. Research has indicated that many of the rooms had large ornamental carpets. Shrake noted, "Large area rugs are expensive, that is why this donation is so welcome, it allows the Society to more historically decorate the rooms." Shrake also pointed out, "This is not Slumberland’s first donation to the Society, and we are truly grateful for their continuous support." The Baraboo Slumberland is owned by Jon Davis. The new carpets, and the restored rooms at the Sauk County Historical Museum at 531 4th Ave, may be seen weekdays Tuesday through Saturday 12 to 5. Admission to the museum is free.

We Care Program

The Sauk County historical Society participates in the Pick ‘n Save “We Care” program. The Society’s number is: 700500. When registering for a Pick ’N Save ADVANTAGe PLuS CARD, please support the Society through this matching gift program.

Old Sauk Trails • Nov/Dec 2006

The Sauk County historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat Ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO Box 651 • Baraboo, WI 53913

Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round

(608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

Capsule Installed in Courthouse Cornerstone

ON a cold, windy November day, the county’s time capsule to the future was sealed away inside a limestone cornerstone of the courthouse, not to be seen again until the year 2105.

This historic event was the culmination of a yearlong centennial celebration honoring the Sauk County Courthouse. The 1905 capsule was retrieved and opened in 2005, and placed on display throughout the county during that time. Various celebrations accompanied the anniversary and a historic perspective was authored by Paul Wolter, entitled “The Sauk County Court HouseSymbol of Progress.”

Dennis Gruber, from Kraemer Brothers of Plain, places the time capsule into the courthouse cornerstone. The box was sealed by Terrytown Plumbing of Baraboo. A limestone slab, inscribed with the current year, and weighing over 100 pounds, was then cemented into place.

Placed inside the 2006 Time Capsule were numerous artifacts, representing various aspects of life in the early 21st Century. The copper box – the recycled repository from 1905 – was crammed full, and included the following items:

Photos of the 1905 capsule artifacts and of the 2005-06 celebrations, over 350 pictures representing every community in the county, u.S. currency, newspapers from Reedsburg, Spring Green, Baraboo and Sauk Prairie. Sauk City’s “Agoston haraszthy” Sesquicentennial medal, photos & news accounts of the Post house fire in Spring Green, copies of speeches given during the courthouse celebrations, “echos from the Sauk hills”, by the Sauk County writers club, photo and program of the Plain Area Veteran’s Memorial, and a selection of brochures representing various county cultural institutions and businesses.

Also slipped inside were a few surprises for future historians – who won’t even be born for another quarter century.

Halloween Tour a Resounding Success!

The Sauk County historical Society held its first annual Tour of historic haunts on Saturday October 28. Over 148 people attended with some coming from as far away as Sheboygan and Milwaukee. The event was a smashing success, better than we could have possibly expected! Participants, with glow sticks around their necks, walked from the Square, to the elks Club (former Al. Ringling Mansion), where Rex Getschman conducted a guided tour. At the Baraboo Public Library, Gretchen Roltgen enthralled the crowd with a haunting tale about the grandfather clock. Nijole etzweiler, dressed in period costume, entertained visitors to her residence with stories of a wake that had occurred there over half a century ago. The Van Orden Mansion was also a stop on the tour, where Peter Shrake spoke of unusual occurrences he has experienced while alone in the mansion. The tour culminated at the Al. Ringling Theatre, where Bob Dewel related stories about the Al. Ringling family. The weather was brisk, but it did not deter the enthusiasm and excitement of the crowd. Plans are already underway for next year’s tour, which will focus on the east side of Baraboo.

We are looking for good local ghost stories and unexplained events. If anyone has information they’d like to share, please contact the Sauk County historical Society at 356-1001.

Mona Larsen plays hymns on an antique pump organ at the Etzweiler home, as visitors pass by a coffin set up for the occasion. Wakes, common during the early part of the 20th century, were held in homes into the 1960’s.

2006 Annual Banquet Highlights

by Bill Schuette

The Sauk County historical Society held its annual meeting and banquet October 24, 2006 at the Baraboo Arts Banquet hall on Water Street. Seventy-three members and guests were present.

After a delicious dinner catered by elite Catering, the annual business meeting of the Society was held. The minutes were approved along with the treasurer's report, after which the election for board members was held. elected for another three year term on the board were Paul Wolter, Natalie Bussan, John Geohegan and Joan Fordham.

The Society presented its 2006 h istoric Preservation Award to John and Deb Moran for their restoration of the facade of 133 Third Avenue in Baraboo. The Morans restored the original plate glass store front of the building revealing the original cast iron columns and replicating other missing features.

President, Paul Wolter, presented a video slide show of Society highlights from the past year and then introduced guest speaker, Nancy Marshall Bauer, of Madison. Mrs. Bauer spoke on “Family Myths: The True Origin of William & Samuel Grubb, Early Settlers of Sauk County.”

A new giving brochure was also debuted at the annual meeting thanks to the efforts of Society Board Member, Bev Vaillancourt.

www.scls.lib.wi.us/baraboo

The Baraboo Public Library has The Baraboo News Republic on microfilm beginning in 1855, indexes to births, deaths and marriages, Sauk County histories, older Sauk County directories, phone books and numerous other local history information.

Paul Wolter, right, Society President, presents the Annual Historic Preservation Award to John Moran.

by Bill Schuette

Tiffany-Handel Lamp part of Historical Society Collection

A lamp by any other name would definitely not be the same. The Sauk County historical Society has in its collection the Tiffany lamp shown here. At least, it’s a Tiffany base. The lamp shade was made by the handel company, an equally prestigious manufacturer of late 19th and early 20th century lamps.

It is not known if the original Tiffany shade was broken, and replaced by a handel, or if the lamp was purchased as shown. None the less, the combination is a valuable part of the Society’s collection.

Louis Comfort Tiffany (1848-1933) was a painter, collector, interior designer, photographer and world traveler. The son of Charles Tiffany, world renown jeweler, Louis chose instead, to pursue his love of art. In the 1880's he directed one of his many talents towards interior design, a profession which he followed the rest of his life. his goal was to bring decorative arts onto the level of fine arts.

Tiffany developed the unique idea of arranging bits of discarded colored glass from his stained glass window business into beautiful decorative lamps. Louis collaborated with Thomas edison in lighting the first movie theater, and edison suggested they work together to make the bases for the electric lamps. Tiffany designed and produced the shades, later making the bases too.

Tiffany developed many original ideas involved in the production of glass, by inventing a way to produce bolder colors, opalescent sheens and a broader range of textures. All of his lamps were either designed by himself or by his skilled workers. The bases were formed into fine sculptures made of brass, and the hand-cut glass was surrounded by copper foil. The Society’s base contains a unique number assigned to its special design, #29733. Tiffany lamps command premium prices in today’s market.

Philip Julius handel began making lamps in 1876, and specialized in high quality reverse painted lamp shades. he also made leaded glass shades and bases similar to Tiffany.

Many of handel’s lamp shades were signed by the artists (ours was not), and bring premium prices from collectors.

After WWI, with a newly emerging economy, the handel Lamp Company grew and expanded. however, as with many businesses, the Great Depression hit handel hard, and the company struggled until 1936, ceasing production that same year.

The Society’s Tiffany-handel lamp is on display in the study of the Van Orden mansion, 531 4th Ave., Baraboo.

The Society partnered with the Baraboo Rotary Club and Senger Lumber to create a float for this year’s Holly Jolly Light Parade in downtown Baraboo. The theme for the parade was toys and the Society’s float showed “Toys of Yesteryear” including giant alphabet blocks, wind-up train, jacks and rocking horse. Pictured working on the float are left to right, Paul Wolter for the Society and Judy Spring and Kay Salecker from Baraboo Rotary.

The Gift of History

I want to help preserve Sauk County’s history by becoming a member of the Sauk County historical Society.

o $25 o $100 o $500 o $1000 o other

Please send me more information on:

o Memorials/bequests

o Charitable trust

o Life insurance gifts

o Gifts of appreciated assets

o Sponsorship opportunities

Name ____________________________________

Address __________________________________

City, State, ZIP ____________________________

Please provide the following information if you would like us to contact you by phone.

Phone ____________________________________

Best contact time: ___________________________

Please clip this form and return to:

The Sauk County Historical Society

531 Fourth Avenue

P. O. Box 651

Baraboo, Wisconsin 53913

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

Return Service requested

New and Renewed Members

THESE ARE MEMBERS THAT HAVE jOINED OR RENEWED SINCE juLy 1, 2006. THANk yOu FOR yOuR SuPPORT

Benefactor

Lucas and Nadia Van Orden IV, Iowa City IA

Sponsor

William and Gretchen Dresen, Baraboo WI

Bart and Char Olson, Merrimac WI

Kenneth & Virgina Whitcomb, honolulu hI

Gary haas, Milwaukee WI

Joan Fordham, Baraboo WI

Michael and Debbie Althen, Baraboo WI

Friend

John and Jean Alt, Baraboo WI

Sue Banaszak, Milwaukee WI

John and Jane Geoghegan, Baraboo WI

Joan Litscher, Baraboo WI

Bill and Alice Schellenberger, Baraboo WI

Robert and Rosa Fleming, Baraboo WI

Tim & Susan Schuebel, Baraboo WI

Phillip and Alonna Pointon, Baraboo WI

Clyde and Carolyn Moon, Baraboo WI

Andrea and James Lombard, Baraboo WI

Glen and Mary Schulz, Baraboo WI

Family

ethan and Mae- Sallee Beals, Shoreline WA

Fred Moh & Nancy Jo Dillman, Baraboo WI

David and Nijole etzwiler, Baraboo WI

Jerry and Alice Kindschi, Prairie du Sac WI

Bernard and Diana Long, Waunakee WI

erick and Audrey Messner, Rock Springs WI

Craig and Mim Olsen, Baraboo WI

David and Marcia Swanson, Baraboo WI

Frank and Colleen Terbilcox, Baraboo WI

Joseph and Barbara Vodak, Baraboo WI

John and Tonia Young, Baraboo WI

Tessie Nolan, Ingram TX

Jean and William Brew, Wisconsin Dells WI

Dick & Annette Baker, Reedsburg WI

Roger LaMasney, Baraboo WI

Gene and Karen Beth, Rock Springs WI

David and Charlotte Taylor, Baraboo WI

Jeanne and James Jessie, Norco CA

erik and Anne emerson, Baraboo WI

Maxine Triff, Madison WI

Nancy Prine, Middleton WI

Aliceson and hal Rubel, Cary IL

Dianne and David Bachmann, Wheeling IL

Judy Siebecker Cantu, New Meadows ID

Fran and Nick Kelly, Baraboo WI

Phillip and Lynda White, Wis Dells WI

David and Carrie Apker, Oconomowoc WI

Individual

Sandra Alexander, hot Springs AR

Dolores Barker, holmen WI

William Cronon, Madison WI

Sylvia epstein, Middleton WI

Nancy Gomez, Del Rio TX

Barbara Larsen, Sister Bay WI

Nancy Leeming, Ithaca NY

helen Stieve, Prairie du Sac WI

Marlene Meyer, Prairie du Sac WI

Pat Pulvermacher, Sauk City WI

Connye LaCombe, West St Paul MN

Kathy LaMasney, Baraboo WI

Jim honer, Madison WI

Patrick Dewall, Appleton WI

elizabeth Nevers, Baraboo WI

Phyllis Miller, Reedsburg WI

Vera Dwars, Baraboo WI

Sarah Poker, Apple Valley MN

Bernice Ringelstetter, Sun Prairie WI

James hanger, Reedsburg WI

Andre and Aimee Krainik, Appleton WI

William Brahney, Auburn NY

Barb Opperman, Baraboo WI

Dolores Bahr, Prairie du Sac WI

Betty hart, McFarland WI

Peter Kolar, North Freedom WI

Deanna Schulz, Basraboo WI

Jewel Osborne, Baraboo WI

Janet Pearson, Baraboo WI

John Reardon, Naperville IL

Beth Johnson, Woodstock IL

William Johnson, Dallas TX

Amber Briggs, Baraboo WI

Barbara Connolly, Baraboo WI

Pam elsing, Morrisonville WI

Jeanette Beard, Milton WI

Connie Blau, Waunakee WI

Lynn Donaldson, Fairview Park Oh

Kathy Marsh, Sterling VA

Mary Sinner, Baraboo WI

Jim and Gladys Getschman, Baraboo WI

Historical Society Gets New Building

Four-year struggle ends in Success!

On December 19th, 2006, the Sauk county Historical Society acquired the old Island Woolen mill administration building, located on Second Avenue near the baraboo river on the east end of Attridge Park, from the city of baraboo for $1. This historic building is set to become the future home of the Sauk county History center. Though extensive renovation is needed before this can happen, it is hoped that by the fall of 2007 the building will be open to the public. The lower level of the building will become museum space. The upper level will provide needed storage space for the Society. The main level will become a research library and reading room where individuals will be able to access information about their families, homesteads, and the county in general. Plans are for the current home of the Sauk county Historical Society, the Van Orden mansion located on Fourth Avenue, to remain with the Society but be converted to a house museum highlighting life in baraboo during the early 1900s. The ambitious project to acquire the Old Woolen mill building began in the summer of 2002 when Sorg, then a board member of the Sauk county Historical Society, called Tim O’Keefe, Director of the city of baraboo Parks and rec. Department, inquiring about the city’s future use of the building. As the last remaining building of what was once the largest woolen factory east of Philadelphia, and a prime example of the work of the notable madison Architects claude and Stark, carol well understood its historic value. For years the city had used the lower level of the building as a maintenance shop. but with the completion of a new

facility on the south side of town, the old building was deemed no longer necessary and was abandoned. Discussions surrounding the old woolen mill building were placed on the side until the fall of 2004. With 60 years of archives under its roof, the Van Orden mansion was filled with county history from the basement to the third floor. After careful consideration, ScHS board of Directors at its January 2005 meeting decided to pursue the process of acquiring the old woolen mill building. Peter Shrake, executive Director of the Society, was given permission to state formal interest in what was now informally called “The Attridge building.” The building however, clearly needed extensive renovations: a new roof, all new windows, a new heating/air-conditioning system, new electrical wiring, resealing of the foundation, and brickwork tuck pointed—a daunting task, to say the least.

(Continued on page two)

New Building

(from page one)

A careful study revealed that, though aged, the building remained as solid as the day it was built, as well as environmentally safe. With that in mind, the Society pursued a very careful analysis of the financial obligations and fund raising needs required, should the building be purchased from the city. It also approached the county for a grant to help with the initial restoration of the building. The Sauk county Historical Society holds county documents that predate the civil War, with more history being made every day. To have a place for these documents to be easily accessed by the public seemed like a project that would benefit the community and county government. With that in mind, a grant of $100,000 was placed in the county budget for the initial restoration phase of the “Attridge building,” available only if the Society, in fact, purchased the building.

With many in agreement that the sale would be in the best interests of the city and the county, things progressed smoothly that spring. everything was moving toward the grand finale in may 2006 when the baraboo city council would vote to approve the deal. Then the proverbial “other shoe” dropped. An old document was discovered in a forgotten file noting that Attridge

Park was acquired and restored in part through funds from the federal Land Water and conservation Act (LAWcOn). Federal money was involved, and federal approval was now required to sell the building. With that understanding, the baraboo city council approved the sale of the Attridge building to the Society for $1 pending the resolution of the requirements of LAWcOn Approval of the sale would now require the conversion of additional parkland on the part of the city of baraboo to offset the land lost to the park by the sale of the building. This conversion would require the approval by the Wisconsin Department of natural resources, as well as the national Park Service as part of the federal Department of Interior. moreover, LAWcOn required an in-kind conversion, not at the sale price of $1, but at the appraised value of the old woolen mill building. The bright lights of the project dimmed considerably with this news.

Bob

Peter

Yet, the Society went forward with great tenacity, knowing how valuable the building was to the history of baraboo, as well as how beneficial it would be to the county in whole as a history center. Society board member bev Vaillancourt sent emails to the offices of state representative Sheryl Albers and congressman ron Kind explaining the project and asking for help. each responded immediately with further contacts at the state and federal level. While Sheryl Albers worked with the Dnr for a resolution to the problem, congressman Kind contacted the office of Tammy baldwin to coordinate efforts at the federal level. meanwhile Society President Paul Wolter and executive Director Peter Shrake worked closely with city attorney mark reitz to facilitate the lengthy process required by the city to comply with LAWcOn. While at a conference in Washington, D.c., bev Vaillancourt took the opportunity to visit the federal offices of representatives ron Kind and Tammy baldwin and Senators russ Feingold and Herb Kohl, with pictures in hand of the project, to garner further support. everyone agreed on the value of the project, everyone shook their heads in disbelief at how the project has been stalled by LAWcOn, and all agreed to help see the project through. back in Wisconsin, Sheryl Albers was garnering further support from other state legislators. Official letters and calls abounded. The ball was rolling and gathering speed. Four months of uncertainty followed. Then, miracles of miracles, on Friday December

Baraboo Mayor Pat Liston hands over the deed to the former Island Woolen Mill office building to Sauk County Historical Society President Paul Wolter. The acquisition of the building has been a 4-year project for the Society. Future plans for the building include a history center to house the Society’s vast collection of research materials, and a venue to display more of its historic county artifacts. From left are Society Board members

Brown and Eleanor Chiquoine, Society Executive Director

Shrake, city Attorney Mark Reitz, Wolter, Baraboo Parks and Recreation Director Tim O’Keefe, Liston, Sauk County Board member Judy Ashford, State Rep. Sheryl Albers and Society vice president Beverly Vaillancourt.

8 the Dnr reported that the national Park Service had given its approval for a conversion of land already owned by the city in return for the value of the old woolen mill building. Yet, joy was short lived when it further stated that before the sale could take place a determination was needed on the building’s historic value. This required the involvement of the Wisconsin Historical Society/ Department of Historic Preservation to determine if the building would be eligible for the national register of Historic Places and if so, protective convanances had to be placed on the property. Paul Wolter traveled the next day to madison, with documents in hand, to meet with the Wisconsin Historic Society, pressing officials there on the need to move quickly on the project in order for the Society to secure the county grant. Once again, an immediate understanding of the worth of the project brought results. The Wisconsin Historical Society deemed the building should be placed on the national register of Historic Places, the national Park Service was satisfied, and the sale was given final approval.

From the hard work of every member of the Society’s board of Directors, to the work of executive Director Peter Shrake, to city and county officials, every participant had a key role in the success of the project. Special recognition must be extended to the support of our state and federal legislators who hastened the bureaucratic process that, without their intervention and coordination, certainly would have been in doubt. Unfortunately, carol Sorg, who would have marveled at the process, never lived to see the conclusion of the project she started. Yet, the final step in this long process surely would have given her satisfaction.

The week the Society acquired the deed the board of Directors discarded the clumsy name “Attridge building,” for the new title “The Sauk county History center”. The renaming of the building ended one project and began another. The Sauk county Historical

Old Sauk Trails • Jan/Feb 2007

The Sauk county Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

editor: bill Schuette • Production: bananaboat Ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO box 651 • baraboo, WI 53913

Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round (608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: mary Farrell-Stieve

Society now faces the exciting task of building a new museum and library. r aising an additional $200,000 to renovate the building properly will be quite the endeavor. Yet, with sufficient and continued community financial and volunteer support, the building will enter its second century showcasing the history of Sauk county. Any one interested in donating funds or time to this project, please call Peter Shrake at the Sauk county Historical Society at 356-1001.

Laptop Computer donated to Society

IT has been several months since the computers at the Sauk county Historical Society have been able to communicate with each other. new volunteer, John bennin, a former baraboo High school computer teacher, has spent several days getting them back in order. now each machine can access the files of any other, making it much easier for staff and researchers to locate the information they want. For instance, the Society’s vast collection of digitalized photos is located on a hard drive in

President’s Report

the executive Director’s office on the second floor. now researchers have access to these images simply by pulling them up on any of the computers in the building. mr. bennin also noted our lack of a laptop computer and donated a new machine to the Society. This donation, among other things, will facilitate taking inventories of artifacts, located in the ballroom, and basement of the museum. On behalf of the ScHS, we would like to thank mr. bennin for his time and generous donation.

by Paul Wolter

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” Eccl. 3:1

OVer the past couple of years I have pondered this bit of wisdom from the Scriptures as the Society has been on its odyssey to acquire the Island Woolen company building in Attridge Park. now that the handover has finally taken place it does indeed seem to fall into place in a larger plan. Though the process was truly frustrating at times and it often seemed like the whole thing might not happen, all things have worked out for the best. I would like to personally thank the city of baraboo for the gift of the building and especially the efforts of Parks and rec Director, Tim O’Keefe, who championed the idea from the start and saw the process through, and city Attorney, mark reitz, who also worked with the Society to make the transfer happen. A large debt of thanks goes to the Sauk county board which saw fit to support the project and give us a good start in our fundraising goals, along with several private donors who have already lent their support. We have a good ways to go but the initial outpouring is encouraging. I would also like to thank Society Vice-President bev Vaillancourt for her unwavering determination to see this project brought to fruition. She truly moved mountains in several ways.

As we embark on our second century with the acquisition of a new “old” building I can only imagine what Society members thought when the Van Orden mansion was purchased nearly seventy years ago. The real estate purchase was certainly the largest but not the first that the Society had made up to that point. This year will mark the centennial of the Society’s first real estate purchase in October of 1907 when the pre-historic man mound site was purchased in conjunction with the State

Archaeological Society. The preservation of this nationally and internationally important site is a testament to the dedication and determination of the founders of the Society. As we continue to carry on their vision to preserve and share Sauk county history I think they would be proud of our efforts. I want to thank all of our members for their support and hope they will commit themselves to our “Second century.” Someday a future newsletter will look back wistfully at the purchase of the Island Woolen mill Office building and hopefully praise our efforts now to preserve Sauk county’s unique heritage.

Good Old Golden Rule Days now available on CD!

In 1994, several area historians published a comprehensive 272-page history of the rural schools of Sauk county. The research and publication committee consisted of bernadette bittner, ena moll, bill Schuette, carol Sorg, Sandy Stiemke and marie Wanless. Two printings of the book were sold out several years later. requests for the book have come into the museum over the years; however, the cost for reprinting could not be justified. now the book has been scanned and is available on a cD in PDF format. It can be read on your computer screen or printed out on your printer. As an added bonus, also included on the cD is the 70 page booklet “rural School Teachers”, a detailed listing of the teachers, where and when they taught. The cost to Society members is $20, and for non-members, $25. The cD may be ordered at the museum, or shipping is $4.

Christmas Open House a Resounding Success

THIS SOcIeTY’S seventh annual Victorian christmas Open House was by far the most successful yet, attracting over 800 visitors! book sales amounted to $247, the raffle brought in $435, and donations that day were $463. The Society would also like to thank raymond James Financial Services at the baraboo national bank and the bank of Prairie du Sac for their financial sponsorship of the event. Twelve decorated trees at the mansion enthralled guests and the Society would like to thank Amber moon, bekah Kate’s, The Ireland Shop, Dave Saloutos, DreAmS, King Louie’s Java Stop and the Village booksmith for decorating trees. Jeff Sorg donated the trees from the Sorg farm again this year in honor of his mother, carol Sorg. many musicians gave of their talents to provide festive christmas music and over 100 dozen cookies were donated by Society members. This year’s gingerbread house, below, was a recreation of the 1899 Foley House, located on Second Street in baraboo and was created with the help of Salecker’s baraboo bäckerei. A similar creation was the centerpiece of the christmas raffle, which also included many items donated by Society members. The Society would like to thank everyone who helped to make the event a success and is pleased that it was well received by the public.

www.scls.lib.wi.us/baraboo

The Baraboo Public Library has The Baraboo News Republic on microfilm beginning in 1855, indexes to births, deaths and marriages, Sauk County histories, older Sauk County directories, phone books and numerous other local history information.

The 1899 Foley House recreated in gingerbread.

Society Wish List

WITH so many changes happening in the Society this year, we need your financial help during this transitional period. The following are some of the items that are on our Wish List:

• Financial support for the remodeling of both the History center and the Van Orden mansion

• Archival supplies such as tissue and boxes to store clothing, file folders and file boxes to organize and store research files, boxes and storage for artifacts and envelopes for photos.

• Office supplies such as paper, envelopes, staples, paperclips and tape.

• Wood for bookshelves in the main research area

• metal shelving for storage in the archive and artifact storage areas

• Office chairs for our volunteers

• Wastebaskets, desk sets, telephones and clocks for volunteer areas and each storage area

• blinds for the History center windows (there are 22 on the first floor alone)

• Period window treatments for the Van Orden mansion

• Wall to wall carpeting for the main floor of the History center

• Flooring for the county museum in the lower level and archive storage on the third floor

• Flashlights for each area of the History center

• reproduce the side lights outside the History center

We Care Program

THe Sauk county Historical Society participates in the Pick ‘n Save “We care” program. The Society’s number is: 700500. When registering for a Pick ’n Save ADVAnTAGe PLUS cArD, please support the Society through this matching gift program.

Penny-farthing Bicycle by

Bill Schuette

THIS unusual high-wheeled bicycle was recently placed on display at the Sauk county Historical Society musuem. Known as the “ordinary” it was more commonly called the penny-farthing.

During the mid-19th century, bicycles were usually made of wood. One straddled the frame and propelled themselves by pushing with their feet. by 1870, metals became strong enough and began to be used in these two-wheeled conveyances. The pedals were attached directly to the front wheel, the chain drive having not been invented yet. The tires were of solid rubber, and the front wheel had long spokes, providing a smoother ride than previous bikes.

by increasing the diameter of the front wheel, (ranging up to 60 inches) makers realized that the bicycle could travel further with one rotation of the pedals. This machine was the first one to be called a bicycle (twowheeled). These first bicycles were playthings of the rich, as they cost an average worker six month’s pay.

The penny-farthing was produced primarily in england and the United States, their hey-day being the 1880’s. The name was derived from two english coins, the penny and the farthing (one-quarter penny), the former being large in size, and the latter of a smaller diameter.

The handlebars are mustache-shaped, with a spoon brake towards the top which was operated by a lever on one of the handlebars.

To mount such an unwieldy contraption took much skill. A rider would place one foot on a small peg protruding from the rear wheel, grasp the handlebars and push off with the other foot. When sufficient speed had been attained, he would swing up and mount the seat. The gyroscopic effect kept the cycle upright. From accounts of the day, the pennyfarthing was notoriously accident prone. If the rider encountered a rut or large stone in

the road, an attempt would be made to hit the break and peddle backwards, slowing the vehicle. If that failed, the rider, who was high above the center of mass, would be propelled over the front wheel, landing on his head or “taking a header”. When descending a hill, the rider was advised to place his legs above the handlebars, so that if the bike stopped suddenly, thrusting its passenger forward, the rider had a better chance of landing on his feet.

The Society’s bicycle is unusual in that the small wheel is in the front, which, it was claimed, gave the rider better balance. This version of the penny-farthing was manufactured by the eagle bicycle company in Stanford, cT, for four years beginning in 1883. The company’s founder, Leonard b. Gaylor, patented this unique design. by the early 1900's, the penny-farthing had seen its day. With the invention of the chain drive and gear ratios, the wheel size was reduced. The rider sat lower, and the ride was much safer.

Today these high riders may still be seen in parades and celebrations.

The Gift of History

I want to help preserve Sauk county’s history by becoming a member of the Sauk county Historical Society.

o $20 o $35 o $50 o $100 o $250

o $500 o $1000 o $2500 o Other

Please send me more information on:

o memorials/bequests

o charitable trust

o Life insurance gifts

o Gifts of appreciated assets

o Sponsorship opportunities

o Sauk county History center name ____________________________________

Address __________________________________ city, State, ZIP ____________________________

Please provide the following information if you would like us to contact you by phone.

Phone ____________________________________

best contact time: ___________________________

Please clip this form and return to:

The Sauk County Historical Society 531 Fourth Avenue

P. O. Box 651 Baraboo, Wisconsin 53913

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. box 651 531 Fourth Avenue

baraboo, WI 53913

New and Renewed Members

Patron

kathy Shrake, Lakewood Wi

Sponsor

Francis & Joan costerisan, Hendersonville nc

bev Vaillancourt, LaValle WI

Arthur and catherine Seybert, baraboo WI

ethan and Kari carlson, baraboo WI

John and Judy bennin, baraboo WI

Friend

Jmark and Jo ellen Waddell, baraboo WI

David and Tana Holmblad, merrimac WI

Jerry and Jeanette Jessop, LaValle WI

Patricia baade, baraboo WI

natalie and chad bussan, baraboo WI

David SaLoutos, baraboo WI

Family

David and Jeanne Fuhs, baraboo WI

David and elsie Gilmore, baraboo WI

mike and Sandi Holt, baraboo WI

Virgil cheryl & Vi erlandson, Hagerstown mD

Lawrence & Shirley Kowalke, Fort myers FL

Phyllis and Wayne Dearborn, Plain WI

Wayne & Geraldine Wolter, Wisc. Dells WI

bill & Deb Johnsen, baraboo WI

Jim & nancy Higgins, baraboo WI

mary and millie canepa, baraboo WI

Jerald and Zita Schultz, baraboo WI

Ken and Ida Huber, boulder creek cA

Deanna and Anne Horjus, baraboo WI

mike and Angie Haller, baraboo WI

Louis and Sarah Salone, reedsburg WI

bill and Laurie Dummer, baraboo WI

individual

Lyle and marge Getschman, baraboo WI

mary Hein, baraboo WI

rick eilertson, baraboo WI

burt Wright, Los Angeles cA

LaDonna Lindquist, Verona WI

bob Kieffer Jr, baraboo WI

Kathryn Schauf, baraboo WI

Virginia roberts, baraboo WI

mark Greimel, Spring Green WI

Gladys marini, baraboo WI

mary Ann Van Allen, Green bay WI

Steve Gall, madison WI

Joice meyer, reedsburg WI

Sandra cunningham, reedsburg WI

Trudy Danley, Farmington mI

merlyn cox, ellison bay WI

christine Stolz, Lacrosse WI

Grant Hutton, Austin TX

michelle burton, baraboo WI

Jill bobholz, baraboo WI

beverly Wilcox, Libertyville IL

Kathryn Johnson, Austin TX

Sherry Sandee, beloit WI

bob Pirie, maplewood mn

Donna christensen, Arena WI

Jim Adams, baraboo WI

Judy Klemm, north Freedom WI

Sharon Petersen, rock Springs WI

Jennifer Klett, menomonee Falls WI

Lawrence and Patricia bittermann batavia IL

elizabeth Dutton boalsburg PA

John and Donna Taapkan, north Freedom WI

Howard and Karen Diehl, Spring Green WI

March/April 2007

7th Annual Canfield Day, Monday, April 9, 2007

The Sauk CounTy hiSToriCal SoCieTy will celebrate the seventh annual William h. Canfield Day on the 188th birthday of Sauk County’s first historian, Monday, april 9, 2007 at 7 p.m. The meeting will take place at the Sauk County historical Museum at 531 Fourth avenue in Baraboo. The program for this year’s celebration will focus on Canfield’s “discovery” of the Man Mound north east of Baraboo in 1859. Canfield surveyed the mound on July 23 of that year and in 1907 the Sauk County historical Society in conjunction with the Wisconsin archeological Society purchased the property encompassing the mound. The Society will celebrate the centennial of that purchase later this year and the 100th anniversary of the opening of Man Mound

Park in 2008. Canfield’s drawing of the mound occurred before the lower legs were destroyed by the creation of what is now Man Mound road thus documenting the complete mound for perpetuity.

During the evening the Society will also present its annual William h. Canfield history award to honor the work of a present-day local historian who displays the same passion for history as Canfield. Society members are asked to nominate a local historian for the award by filling out the nomination form found inside this issue. The deadline for nominations is March 30. Birthday cake and refreshments will round out the evening. The public is invited to attend.

Director’s Report

by Peter Shrake

There are moments in the course of one’s professional life that can be called a career high--a moment of excitement and achievement that surpasses all others. i have been fortunate to experience two such moments. The first one happened when i was hired by the Society. Coming out of graduate school, and becoming the first executive Director of a venerable institution such as the SChS was, and still is, one of the most special moments in my life. This last December i experienced another. When the Society acquired the island Woolen Company office building i knew i was witnessing and participating in a special moment. With this new building we have the chance to rebuild the county museum, reorganize the library/archive, and transform the Van orden Mansion into a house museum. This is the kind of professional opportunity that comes along once in a lifetime.

To be sure it will be a daunting task, and the next

few years will present new challenges reminiscent of the late 1930s when the Society purchased the Van orden Mansion. Between 1937 and 1939 the Society witnessed the passing of no less than four of its presidents, the acquisition of the Van orden Mansion, and the construction of the first exhibits of the Sauk County historical Museum. Then as now such a major undertaking would not be possible without the assistance of a strong volunteer corps and community support. in the late 1930s the Society had the strong backs of young men from the WPa, and arthur koenig (our first curator) to move the artifacts and build the museum. Back then we had the support of r.B. Griggs and Frida Meyer nishan who together provided $10,000.00, no small amount in 1938, to purchase the mansion.

Today we have an invaluable collection of skilled individuals like Paul Washam, who can do everything from cataloging to construction, to John Benin, who is our new computer expert, to helen Saloutos who is carefully cataloging our circus collection. But we need more. We need people who can build things, and move things. We need people who can catalog artifacts and organize archives. We also need people to contribute financially to this important project. We have already received large donations from several private donors and from the County but we need more. By contributing to this project, whether it is through physical labor or through a financial donation, you are making a personal lasting contribution to the preservation of our region’s heritage. if you want to volunteer or make a financial donation please call the museum any time at 356-1001. This project has personal meaning for me, but it is a personal experience i share with everyone who is involved with our Society. Together we are rebuilding our organization, our library, and our museum. Together we are embarking on a task similar to what h e. Cole, our first president, did when he founded our Society in 1905, or what r. P. Perry, president in 1938, did when we purchased the Van orden Mansion. our founding members and leaders built this organization and museum, and today we enjoy the fruits of their endeavors. now it is our turn. it is our job to expand our museum and library and provide the proper tools for future members of our Society to preserve our history. Together we will set the stage and the tone for the next 100 years of the Sauk County historical Society.

SCHS Board members inspect the main floor of the new History Center on a cold December day. This floor will house research materials, offices and a meeting area.

The basement of the History Center will be renovated to display some of the numerous artifacts from the Society’s archives. Much work is needed before the projected opening of the display some time next year.

Nominees Needed For Canfield History Award

The Sauk CounTy hiSToriCal SoCieTy will award its fifth William h. Canfield history award on april 9, 2007 to honor the memory of Sauk County’s earliest historian and acknowledge the work of a current historian. The individual chosen will be one that has made an abiding commitment to local history and whose efforts are reflected in a body of work or certain contributions. The Society will accept nominations until March 30, 2007. Please use the form below to nominate someone who has contributed to the preservation of local history in the spirit of William h. Canfield.

William H. Canfield History Award Nomination

Deadline: March 30,2007. Submit to: Sauk County historical Society Po Box 651 Baraboo, Wi 53913

on a separate piece of paper, please complete the following paragraph in 500 words or less: i nominate________, who, like William h. Canfield, shows a passion for local history as shown by his/her… Please

Old Sauk Trails • Jan/Feb 2007

The Sauk County historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum 531 Fourth ave. • Po Box 651 • Baraboo, Wi 53913 open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round (608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com www.saukcounty.com

executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

The Society’s photographic collection is enlarged in many, and unusual ways. This postcard, along with five others, was recently donated by the Costa Mesa, CA Historical Society. It was found in a collection from Mildred Dack Fisher. “Tillie” from Ableman, wrote one of the postcards announcing the death of her mother. All cards appear to be from the early 1900’s. Can anyone identify the location of the photo, and possibly the year of the auto?

Your Society is always looking for historic photos and postcards of the Sauk County area, and your donation of such artifacts will assure their preservation for future historians. We are also willing to make copies and return the originals.

Acetylene (Carbide)

Bicycle Lamp by

Bill Schuette

in the previous issue, we learned about a high-wheeled bicycle called the Penny Farthing. To continue on that theme, we’ll learn how riders navigated after dark.

riding a bicycle at night was a hazardous undertaking before the advent of a source of illumination to light the way. in 1897, the american Badger Brass Company, of kenosha, Wi, advertised the first practical acetylene gas bicycle lamp. known as the “Solar”, it was an invention of intricate design.

a tank at the rear of the lamp was filled with water, and a cup at the bottom contained pellets of calcium carbide. a small spigot allowed water to drip onto the calcium carbide, initiating a chemical reaction that produced flammable acetylene gas. The gas passed upward into a y-shaped ceramic burner where it was ignited and produced an intense white light. a reflector in the back, and a lens in front further enhanced the light. By controlling the amount of water dripping onto the calcium carbide, the brilliance of the flame could be adjusted. Faceted colored lenses on the sides of the lamp provided a warning to approaching vehicles from the right or left. To prevent the flame from going out when the cyclist hit a bump or pothole, a piece of wire was wrapped around the ceramic jets, which caused it to glow red-hot. if the flame disappeared, the hot wire would re-ignite the gas.

Bicyclers needed to use caution when lighting one of these lamps, as fires were not uncommon. if the acetylene gas escaped its chamber while the lamp was lit, or if excessive pressure built up inside, a serious explosion could result.

Committed to providing solutions for Individuals, Small Businesses & Non-Profits since 1949.

These lamps went out of fashion in the late 1930’s when battery operated bicycle lights became practical. however, during WWii, when batteries became scarce these old lamps were dusted off and again pressed into service.

Long-time Society Benefactor Passes Away

By nijole etzwiler

When George Mcarthur died recently, his obituary listed the many organizations in which he'd been involved, but it neglected to mention that for over 20 years, George had been a valuable member of the Sauk County historical Society. as the person in charge of the building and grounds, he had the difficult job of seeing to our Museum's maintenance, which in those days required, besides the necessary painting, cleaning & raking, turning off the water and draining the pipes every fall, then returning the heating and plumbing system to life every spring.

When i started working as the museum's curator, in 1980, i had many occasions to turn to George for help, and i was worried that he would think me a pest. So it was a pleasant surprise, at my first annual banquet, to hear George say, as part of his report: "nijole has asked me to fix so many things, i feel i have a second wife telling me what to do."

Sharon, his main wife, was at the time, and for 25 years, secretary of the Society, and creator of the newsletter. ken nelson, who also brought George in to help with the physical work, had recruited her.

George's dedication to the job went beyond the bounds of safety, when he decided to take home an unexploded cannonball we had discovered in our Civil War collection, to detonate it in his field. luckily, this failed, and it was left to the national Guard to finish the job for us.

at his memorial service, all who knew George described him as outspoken but kind, gruff but friendly, hardworking but fun. These were truly his gifts of character, and all those who worked or played with him know that he was a wonderful man never to be forgotten. We were fortunate to have him as part of our Society.

www.scls.lib.wi.us/baraboo

The BaraBoo PuBlic liBrary has The Baraboo News republic on microfilm beginning in 1855, indexes to births, deaths and marriages, Sauk county histories, older Sauk county directories, phone books and numerous other local history information.

A Trade Ax by

M. richard Tully

When europeans first began to press deeper into the Great lakes wilderness around 1620, much of the Midwest, including Wisconsin, was still largely in the “wood age.” native american shelters, tools, cooking pots and utensils, and even their primary modes of transportation were made chiefly of wood and bark held together with roots or other plant fibers. Some knives and axes were made of stone or copper, but these were clumsy, inefficient, and did not hold a sharp edge. under these circumstances, it is easy to see why the iron trade ax was highly valued by the native americans—which was something that did not escape notice of the French, Dutch and english fur traders. By the early 1700s thousands of iron axes were being imported from europe or manufactured in north america expressly for trade with the native americans.

The Sauk County historical Society collection holds an excellent example of one of these early trade axes (Fig. a). it was found on the Charles F. abbot farm in the south central Sauk County town of honey Creek in 1857 and was donated to the Society around 191 it is a round poll ax—meaning that the eye for the handle was formed by wrapping a flat piece of metal around a round or oval-shaped mandrill—it is seven inches long and weighs about one pound. Though it is heavily corroded, the texture of the metal changes at the cutting edge, indicating that a higher-quality metal has been forgewelded into the bit (see Fig. B). all of these features are typical of 18th-century trade axes. This particular ax also has a noticeable circular

side—probably a maker’s cartouche. Most english trade axes were not marked, but many of those made by French blacksmiths feature a cartouche stamped on the blade. Though faint, the cartouche on the Sauk County historical Society ax is similar to the mark on an almost identical ax that was found at the site of Fort Michilimackinac (Fig. C). This mark is known to have been used by the forge at Trois rivières Canada, during the French régime (163-1763).

The city of Trois rivières was founded in 163 and is second only to Québec as one of the oldest cities in Canada. The Trois rivières iron works, called Forges du Saint-Maurice, was granted a royal warrant by king louis XV in 1730, and a small forge and blast furnace began operations at the site in 1733. The facility grew over the following decades, and when Forges du Saint-Maurice finally closed in 1883, it was the oldest continuouslyoperating blast furnace in north america. Today the site is preserved and managed by Parks Canada.

Tens of thousands of trade axes were produced at Forges du Saint-Maurice, and the Sauk County historical Society ax could have very easily found its way to Michilimackinac and then into Wisconsin inside a trade bundle in the bottom of a Voyageur canoe. how it eventually ended up in a farm field in the town of honey Creek will forever remain a mystery.

Fig. A

Fig. B The steps involved in forging a trade ax are shown here. A strap of iron was heated in the forge and folded around a metal form (1), then a piece of hard steel was inserted to form the cutting edge (2), and the two types of metal were forge welded together into a blade (3), before the eye was formed and the ax was hammered into its final shape (4).

Fig. C Four examples of common circular cartouches that appear on French Canadian trade axes. The faint mark on the Sauk County Historical Society collection’s ax looks very much like the one shown at top right, which is also seen on an ax excavated at Michilimackinac.

“[The Indians] admired all the wares brought to them by the French, which they regarded as extremely precious. The knives, the hatchets, the iron weapons above all could not be sufficiently praised …”

— Nicolas Perrot, c 1665

Can You Help?

i aM looking for 8mm movies or photos of the reedsburg Big Store fire that occurred in 1957. i am working on a video, which chronicles that catastrophic event. your photos and films will be returned to you, unharmed. Contact: Bill Schuette, (608) 727-33, wschuette@ hughes.net.

i am also looking for photos of John and Jacqueline kennedy’s visit to reedsburg in 1960, when he was running for president. We are also looking for photos of Bobby kennedy when he visited in Baraboo. if you have any photographs of these events, or additional information, please contact the Sauk County historical Society, (608) 356-1001.

Victorian Tea & Fashion Show Coming

June 16. Watch for details

The Gift of History

i want to help preserve Sauk County’s history by becoming a member of the Sauk County historical Society.

o $20 o $35 o $50 o $100 o $250

o $500 o $1000 o $2500 o other

Please send me more information on:

o Memorials/bequests

o Charitable trust

o life insurance gifts

o Gifts of appreciated assets

o Sponsorship opportunities

o Sauk County history Center name ____________________________________ address __________________________________ City, State, ZiP ____________________________

Please provide the following information if you would like us to contact you by phone.

Phone ____________________________________

Best contact time: ___________________________

Please clip this form and return to:

The Sauk County Historical Society 531 Fourth Avenue

P. O. Box 651 Baraboo, Wisconsin 53913

(608) 356-1001

A historic mural depicting the history of the Baraboo area recently was placed on display at the Wells Fargo Bank in West Baraboo. The mural consists of photos, postcards and maps which help explain the bank’s connection with the community over the years.

Society Launches Pillars of Progress Campaign

With the acquisition of the island Woolen Company building in Baraboo late last year, the Sauk County historical Society ended a four-year odyssey not only to obtain the historic building, but also to preserve an important piece of Sauk County history. the building is the only remaining part of the island Woolen Company, once the largest woolen mill west of Philadelphia. the building was designed by regionally-famous architects, Claude & Starck of Madison. Louis Claude, one of the partners, was born at Devils Lake. importantly, the island Woolen Company building is the only known industrial example of the firm’s work.

Now that the Society owns the structure, the next phase is to restore the building in order for it to open as the Sauk County history Center. While pursuing the possibility of acquiring the island Woolen Company building, the Society initiated talks with Sauk County government for the possibility of a one-time grant of $100,000 to be used toward repairs. this was successfully achieved and the funds already have been put to work. Sixty-one new, historically accurate, and soon to be installed windows were ordered through hartje Lumber of LaValle, which graciously sold the units at cost to the Society. A new roof and masonry repairs already have begun. though private donors have joined the Society’s efforts to restore the building, more will be needed to successfully reach the goal and make the new Sauk County history Center a reality. to that end, the Society’s Board of Directors has initiated a Pillars of Progress Restoration Campaign to raise the estimated additional $220,000 needed to restore the exterior of the building and renovate the interior.

Once completed, the facility will house all of the archives of the Society and be a regional research center with room to grow. the building also will eventually house museum space and be used for educational programs. While the building is structurally sound, all new heating and air conditioning, electrical work, and cosmetic repairs need to be done inside to make the building functional. Once completed the building will help the Society fulfill its mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk County history well into and hopefully beyond the Society’s second century. Members of the Society are encouraged to get behind this project. informational materials about the Pillars for Progress Campaign soon will be sent to Society members. Please watch your mail for more on this exciting project.

A new sign has been erected in front of the future Sauk County History Center showing the progress of the Pillars of Progress Restoration Campaign. Private donors have given $30,500 to the project along with the $100,000 Sauk County grant. Work already has begun on the exterior of the building. Additional funds will be needed to renovate the interior.

Society Bids Farewell to Peter Shrake.

the SOCiety’S first ever full-time employee, Peter Shrake, who has been with the Society for over eight years, will be resigning from his post as executive Director and plans to pursue a teaching career in the history field. During his tenure, Shrake made significant changes in the Society’s operations and expanded the fulfillment of its mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk County history. Collections have been catalogued and stored properly, the archives were substantially re-organized, education programs were started and new public programs were created as a result of Shrake’s work. Shrake will remain in his position until July 1. the Board of Directors will be forming a search committee to find a replacement to fulfill his duties. the Society’s Board of Directors would like to sincerely thank Peter for his time with us over these last eight years and wish him well in his future endeavors.

President’s Report

the SOCiety has had a couple of very active and eventful months since the last newsletter. Late last year the Board of Directors decided to put the Reul house on the market after the final details of the acquisition of the island Woolen Company building seemed to be coming together. the impending spring departure of our tenants, the Aldo Leopold Foundation, also hastened the decision to find a historically sympathetic buyer for the property. things were slow during the winter months, but in March a buyer was found for the property. We are pleased to announce that David Sullivan along with Dick and Jane Dana of Freedom township have purchased the property for use as offices for their probiotic dietary supplement business. Mr. Sullivan and the Danas are ardent preservationists and thoroughly enjoy all of the historic and restored details of the Reul house, which they have christened Bella Flora. With more than a little personal interest in the building, i am thrilled with the new owners and their love of the building.

Society Loses Members

By Nijole etzweiler

BeA hARDiNg was a very loyal member and volunteer during my creatorship in the 1980’s. She lead school tours and substituted for me whenever i had to take a day off. She was incredibly smart and although a "newcomer" with the powder plant, could rattle off all kinds of Sauk history.

LARRy OLSON was our handyman. he was very talented, and did odd jobs around the museum for many years, from painting to cleaning out the gutters every spring.

the last month has also brought us the news that Peter Shrake will be leaving his position with us as executive Director. Pete has been with the Society for eight years and in that time has brought tremendous changes in the operations of the Society. As the Society’s first ever full-time employee, his work on so many fronts has helped our organization grow and flourish. his expertise in history and museum work brought about major changes in the museums collections, including what is on display and what is now stored properly. Our education programs also were improved and expanded under Pete’s direction. the community at large came to know much more about the Society’s efforts from Pete’s work with the public and government sectors. While he was with us, Pete became a true Sauk County native and we trust his time with us has been beneficial. i know the Society has benefited from knowing Pete and i want to thank him personally for his service to the Society. While we look for people to replace his position and expand it, we know that we have a much better Society to build upon because of Pete’s work with us.

Paul Wolter

To The membership,

iN MARCh of 1999 the Board of Directors took a chance on a kid fresh out of grad school. i had no practical museum experience, and only had my service with the National Park Service and my recently completed Masters Degree to my name. the following 8 years has been a wild ride full of ups and downs, extreme challenges and tremendous payoffs. Now the time has come for a new executive Director.

though some may be surprised at this move, the timing is critical. For some time i have been considering a transition into the teaching field but felt that i could not leave the Society while we were in the process of acquiring the iWC building. We are now in a lull, so to speak. We have our new building, however, we will soon be knee deep in the reconstruction and the transition into the new history center, a project that will probably require several years to complete. it would not be fair to leave the Society in the middle of this transition.

i will not presume to list the accomplishments of the last 8 years. What has been done was done together as a team, a team consisting of staff, board, and members working towards the common goal of historic preservation. My accomplishments are actually your accomplishments.

Personally, i believe i have come away a richer man for being here. My time here has broadened my perspective of the past in ways i could not have comprehended 8 years ago. in order to work at a place like the SChS you must become a "jack of all trades" so to speak. you must learn, or at least appreciate, the importance of so many historical subjects ranging from genealogy, to architecture, to railroad history, to local government history, to the history of countless small communities, creameries, churches, schools, the list goes on and on.

i have learned from the likes of Carol Sorg with her quiet, methodical, practical approach to research. With Paul Wolter i learned the value of old buildings, not just those of the early 19th century but the significance of historical architecture in general. But the best thing i gained while here will be with me for a lifetime. it was while staffing a SChS booth at the Sauk County Dairy Breakfast in 2000 that i met my wife Kim. And of course because of Kim i have my son, ethan. Neither would be in my life if it were not for the Sauk County historical Society. My family will always be an indelible reminder of my time here and because of that i am grateful.

For the rest of my life, i will always be able to look back and say with pride, i was the executive Director of one of the oldest historical institutions in Wisconsin. i have nothing but good memories of this place, and i have you, the membership, to thank for that.

Peter Shrake

Old Sauk Trails • May/June 2007

the Sauk County historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat Ad/grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum

531 Fourth Ave. • PO Box 651 • Baraboo, Wi 53913

Open tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round

(608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

executive Director: Peter Shrake

Staff Assistant: Mary Farrell-Stieve

The early 21st Century has been a time of numerous centennials and sesquicentennials in Sauk County. The Baraboo National Bank began 150 years ago this July as the Sauk County Bank. Originally located in a wood building on Third Avenue, in 1867 the Bank built a brick building on the corner of Oak and Third where it has been ever since. The original façade received a makeover in 1924, which is largely the same today. The village of Spring Green also celebrates its sesquicentennial this year. Both the bank and the village have events planned for this summer to celebrate.

SCIL Leadership

FOuRteeN members of the Sauk County institute of Leadership (SCiL) spent several hours at the museum recently, to help prepare for the summer season. the SCiL is a nine-month leadership development program, which focuses on Leadership and team Building. it consists of individuals from various segments of the community, brings them together, and prepares them for leadership rolls. the group studies state and local government, education, health care, agriculture and natural resources, civil liberties and other community oriented concerns. While at the museum, several teams were formed to perform various tasks. One group cleared the beds and planted flowers. Another was responsible for cataloging a part of the Society’s artifact collection, and the third group helped transport a historic photographic collection to another historical society.

PBS Documentary

RePReSeNtAtiVeS of Public Broadcasting Station, WttW-tV, Chicago, for an upcoming documentary on that station, entitled, “the World’s greatest Millionaire”, interviewed Society President, Paul Wolter at the museum recently. the program centers on the life of John Ringling. executive Director, Peter Shrake was also among the local historians interviewed for the program.

Canfield Day

ON APRiL 9th, the Sauk County historical Society hosted its annual William Canfield Day. the event attracted 2 historically minded members to the Van Orden mansion in Baraboo. each year the Society presents an award to an individual in recognition of their outstanding efforts to record or preserve Sauk County history. this year’s winner was Joe Ward. he has done extensive research into the history of each building and the businesses that occupied that location in the Baraboo down town area. his attention to detail and tenacity in locating pertinent information on each structure is one of the reasons that he was nominated. Joe is also willing to share his research and knowledge with anyone seeking to know about their business, and he doesn’t hesitate to make that information available to researchers and the media. Society President, Paul Wolter, left, presents Joe Ward with the 2007 William Canfield Award.

The BaraBoo PuBlic liBrary has The Baraboo News republic on microfilm beginning in 1855, indexes to births, deaths and marriages, Sauk county histories, older Sauk county directories, phone books and numerous other local history information.

Reul House Handover

DAViD SuLLiVAN along with Dick and Jane Dana of Freedom township have purchased the historic Reul house in Baraboo which the Society acquired by generous donation from Dr. Scott Pauley in 2002. the Danas will use the building for offices and light warehousing in relation to their business selling Florajen, a probiotic dietary supplement. While originally considered for use as a history center the Board of Directors decided the building was too small for such purposes. the building had been rented by the Aldo Leopold Foundation since the Society acquired it. With the foundation’s departure the Board decided to sell the building to a historically sympathetic buyer. the money from the sale has been invested to provide operational income for the Society.

Oops!

in our last issue, the caption to one of the images in M. Richard tully’s article “A trade Ax” was missing. the missing caption is as follows:

C Four examples of common circular cartouches that appear on French Canadian trade axes. The faint mark on the Sauk County Historical Society collection’s ax looks very much like the one shown at top right, which is also seen on an ax excavated at Michilimackinac.

Fig.

L to R. David Sullivan, Paul Wolter, Jane Dana, Dick Dana

Baraboo Author/Publisher Cited in Pultzer-prize Winning Book.

DAV iD hACK ett Fi SCheR’S best-selling book

Washington’s Crossing (Oxford university Press, 200) won him the Pulitzer Prize in history. Among the various works cited in Mr. Fischer’s extensive bibliography is a CD ROM titled “the Compleat Cuthbertson”, which was compiled and published by Mark R. tully of Baraboo, through his publishing company, Ballindalloch Press. the cited work is a compilation of several important 18th-century British military books and manuals that were transcribed by Mr. tully and Violet J. tully of Baraboo, and annotated by Don hagist of Rhode island. in 2000 these documents were published on a CD ROM in both text and PDF formats so that the information could be made readily available and more easily searched by authors and researchers. the CD was marketed to historical sites and societies and research libraries all over the united States and great Britain.

Mr. Fischer used the CD ROM as a source of information on the organization, administration, supply, uniforms and equipment of the armies who fought the American War for independence.

Upcoming Events

June 7, Founders’ Day Picnic, Attridge Park, Baraboo 6 p.m.

June 16, Victorian Tea, Van Orden Mansion, Baraboo 3 p.m.

July 28 , Old Fashioned Day, Baraboo – Society Exhibit and Stand

The Gift of History

i want to help preserve Sauk County’s history by becoming a member of the Sauk County historical Society.

o $20 o $35 o $50 o $100 o $250

o $500 o $1000 o $2500 o Other

Please send me more information on:

o Memorials/bequests

o Charitable trust

o Life insurance gifts

o gifts of appreciated assets

o Sponsorship opportunities

o Sauk County history Center

Name ____________________________________

Address __________________________________

City, State, ZiP ____________________________

Please provide the following information if you would like us to contact you by phone.

Phone ____________________________________

Best contact time: ___________________________

Please clip this form and return to:

The Sauk County Historical Society 531 Fourth Avenue

P. O. Box 651 Baraboo, Wisconsin 53913

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, Wi 53913

New and Renewed Members

THeSe ARe MeMBeRS THAT HAve JOINeD OR ReNeWeD SINCe JANuARy 1, 2007. THANk yOu FOR yOuR SuPPORT

Patron

Mona and gene Larsen Baraboo Wi

edwin Bodendein LaValle Wi

eric Lewison Baraboo Wi

Sponsor

Karl and Melanie Burgi Baraboo Wi

Robert Dewel Baraboo Wi

Wayne hatz Baraboo Wi

Ralph and Pam Krainik Baraboo Wi

tom Kriegl Baraboo Wi

helen Saloutos Baraboo Wi

William Schuette Reedsburg Wi

Alan Scoles Witchita KS

Joe and Lou Ann Ward Baraboo Wi

Paul Wolter Wisconsin Dells Wi

Susan Williams Waukesha Wi

William and Corinne Beard Baraboo Wi

gary Kowalke Baraboo Wi

Mark and Candice graupman Reedsburg Wi

Walter and yvonne Smith Baraboo Wi

gene and Jan Suchomel Reedsburg Wi

Ron and Lynda Barganz Baraboo Wi

eric and ginny Lewison Baraboo Wi

Friend

James Delacour tacoma WA

Dan and Sandy edwards Baraboo Wi

Donna Lange Reedsburg Wi

Charles and Jeanne Marking Baraboo Wi

Don and Dirk topham Baraboo Wi

Paul and Aural umhoefer Baraboo Wi

Audrey Wendt Baraboo Wi

Robert and Louise yeck Silver Springs MD

Merlin and Jenele Zitzner Baraboo Wi

Dean and Jean Friday Austin tX

Frederic Behn Rock Springs Wi

Bernard and Roberta hotzel Baraboo Wi

Krisha Miner and Family Madison Wi

Marnie Krainik Waukesha Wi

Lawrence and Catherine Senger Baraboo Wi

Bobbie Wickus Baraboo Wi

Judy Ashford Merrimac Wi

Lyle and June Coates Baraboo Wi

Family Librarian Allen County Public Library Fort Wayne iN

Keith and Virginia Anderson Baraboo Wi

Robert and Patti Brown Merrimac Wi

Donald and Wilma Cook emporia KS

Bob and Carolyn Doepke Baraboo Wi

Ken and Mary grant Baraboo Wi

Charles and Donna green Baraboo Wi

Linda and Doug Luther greenwood Village CO

Richard and Linda Jenks Baraboo Wi

Marvin and Barbara Juliar evanston iL

Jim and Marilyn Karch Baraboo Wi

Janet and Clair Keylock Baraboo Wi

Arthur and Frances Koenig Madison Wi

herb and Darlene Messer Baraboo Wi

Steve and Libby Rundio Baraboo Wi

Allan & Nancy Schmid Baraboo Wi

William and Marian Schreiber Baraboo Wi

Peter and June Sturgis Baraboo Wi

Neil and Lucille thompson Baraboo Wi

harold & Audrey hein Baraboo Wi

Joe and Linda Van Berkel Baraboo Wi

terry and Patricia turnquist Baraboo Wi

Jan and Fawn Masalewicz Waukesha Wi

Al & Lola DuBois Palm harbor FL

Jerry & ellen Dargel Baraboo Wi

Ron and Rose Birdd Reedsburg Wi

Albert and Allegra Zick North Freedom Wi

Rich and JJ Calton Cheyenne Wy

Mike and Mary Schell Baraboo Wi

Robert and Joyce Breen hartford Wi

John and Dorothy Sorg Prairie du Sac Wi

Bob and Darlene hill Baraboo Wi

Bryan and Mary Reeve Spring green Wi

Mike and Peg Martiny Princeville iL

Ron and Lynn trok (Risley) Cable Wi

Pat, Kim, Makenna and Adam Wilson huntington iN

Cyril and Mary Dickeman Reedsburg Wi

Peter and elise etzweiler Baraboo Wi

Don and Verna Shook Baraboo Wi

gaylon, Shirley and emma Steinhorst Baraboo Wi

Pete and Char Malinosky Bloomington MN

Dean and Judy Brice Baraboo Wi

Phil and Joan Anderson Baraboo Wi

tom and Sue holmes Baraboo Wi

Joe and Beth Prindle Baraboo Wi

Dave Casey LaValle Wi

Fred Rochacewicz Baraboo Wi

guy & Mary Porth Milwaukee Wi

Bill and Amy Schertz Baraboo Wi

Denise and Dave Statz Baraboo Wi

Richard and Sheila Roznos Baraboo Wi

Individual

Betty Marquardt Baraboo Wi

Audrey Belter Florence AZ

Craig Caflisch Baraboo Wi

Donald Cole DeForest Wi

John Fletcher Baraboo Wi

Margo gallus Merrimac Wi

Dick goddard North Freedom Wi

Robert Johnson Baraboo Wi

Joyce Karg Baraboo Wi

William Kidder ewing NJ

henrietta Marini Baraboo Wi

Barb Naidl Baraboo Wi

Sandra Stiemke Loganville Wi

Barbara Vester Los Angeles CA

Ruth Woods Alexandria VA

Leota Bellows Baraboo Wi

Christopher goetz Lakewood Wi

Sandy Kjernes edgerton Wi

Lola huber North Freedom Wi

Fred Marini Melrose Wi

Kathy Steckelberg Arlington VA

Phyllis Stanton Baraboo Wi

thomas Bladl Fond du Lac Wi

Mike Wolcott hartland Wi

Donald Dutcher Broomfield CO

Nancy Kreier Portage Wi

Beatrice Blau Sun Prairie Wi

Jack Pittman Atlantic iA

Ronald Bauer Reedsburg Wi

Brenda holloway Baraboo Wi

Sandy Maul Billings Mt

Joan McArthur Baraboo Wi

Luanne Krohn Reedsburg Wi

Marilyn Rohde Baraboo Wi

Sharen grimsley Pacolet SC

Kim Nesenson Champlin MN

Max Carpenter indianapolis iN

Wayne Pivotto Montello Wi

Mary Vespia Arlington Wi

Jim Michaels Baraboo Wi

Robert Schultz Waukesha Wi

Shirley Spees Baraboo Wi

Karin Weiss tigard OR

Lindy Larsen Baraboo Wi

eileen Lambert Campbell CA

Wava Vertein North Freedom Wi

Betty Cook Clarksville tN

Marie Kolberg Madison Wi

Kevin Jackson Cudahy Wi

Bruce Ley Waupun Wi

ellen hosig Baraboo Wi

Richard eakins Windsor Wi

Corinne Rasmussen Cable Wi

Peter Premo Baraboo Wi

Bev Shook Baraboo Wi

inger Clemens Wisconsin Dells Wi

Sandy Kaufmann Madison Wi

Barbara harvey Sonora CA

Robert & Marjorie Litscher Baraboo Wi

Ralph & Carol Zahnow Middleton Wi

Reva O'Brien Park Falls Wi

Barbara Wolfe Waunakee Wi

Work Begins at the Sauk County History Center

Efforts to rehabilitate the historic Island Woolen Company office Building have begun as the building is slowly turned into the sauk County History Center. A new roof was installed in May along with repairs to the top parapet wall of the building. In early June a crew of volunteers helped clean out the building and remove literally tons of trash and recyclable materials. those who helped out were Paul Wolter, Paul Young, ralph & Pam Krainik, John Benin, Joe Prindle, Peter shrake and Bill schuette. the society would like to thank Dave Caflisch for donating a large trailer and for hauling away the metal debris to be recycled. some of the items taken from the building were two large furnaces, an electric kitchen stove, two large exhaust fans, heat ducting, and other metal odds and ends. Non-recyclable materials were also removed. Masons have started the process of re-pointing the building by removing areas of failed mortar and applying new mortar and soon the

foundation will be excavated and waterproofed. After the masonry repairs are finished, the new windows will be installed. fundraising efforts to date have brought in gifts or pledges of over $60,000 from private donors. this along with the grant of $100,000 from the county has provided a healthy start towards our goal of $350,000 to renovate the building. While much of the work needs to be done by professionals, additional volunteer workdays will be scheduled during the summer. If you would like to volunteer to help renovate the History Center, please contact the museum. Many hands make for light work.

Joe Prindle, left & Paul Young, remove an old furnace.

Masons from Statz Restoration have begun re-pointing the exterior brick.

President’s Report

I WoulD like to take this time to thank the Board of Directors for their untiring efforts on behalf of the sauk County Historical society. I often am amazed that there are 1 willing people in this county from all walks of life, localities and professions that care enough about our mission to not only serve on the board but also serve as faithful volunteers. they lead with an example of service and for that I am extremely grateful. Just recently I have had the pleasure of sitting on the search Committee, which is responsible for finding candidates to fill our new positions of Executive Director and Curator. the committee, which consists of Joan fordham, Natalie Bussan and sue teska, has done a fantastic job in advertising for our needs and scheduling interviews with many qualified candidates. I am excited by the people we have interviewed and with the prospects for the future. I look forward to announcing in our next newsletter who our new Executive Director and Curator will be. I would also like to thank our staff assistant, Mary farrel-stieve for doing an excellent job staffing the museum during this interim time. Along with some more of our wonderful volunteers she has been able to assist everyone who has visited the museum. As we look back at 10 years of fulfilling our mission to collect, preserve and share sauk County history, I know that I am proud of the many volunteers who have helped us do just that.

Paul Wolter

Old Sauk Trails • July/August 2007

the sauk County Historical society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

Editor: Bill schuette • Production: Bananaboat Ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum 531 fourth Ave. • Po Box 651 • Baraboo, WI 53913 open tuesday-saturday 1-5 pm year-round (608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com www.saukcounty.com

staff Assistant: Mary farrell-stieve

www.saukcounty.com

Founders’ Day Picnic Held at History Center

AltHouGH the threat of severe weather forced the festivities inside, the sun finally shown for the 007 founders’ Day Picnic held at the future sauk County History Center in Attridge Park. seventy members were in attendance, and enjoyed roast beef and pork sandwiches, with all the trimmings. President, Paul Wolter, recounted the history of the Baraboo Island Woolen Company. retiring Executive Director, Peter shrake was presented with a plaque in recognition of his eight plus years as Executive Director of the society. Afterward, tours were conducted of the old office building. Everyone could readily see that there was much work yet to be done before the History Center would become a reality. It is the hope of the Board that by this time next year, the History Center will be operational and open to the public.

Right: Peter Shrake, right, receives a plaque from Sauk County Historical Society President, Paul Wolter.

Below: The annual Founder’s day Picnic was well attended!

Ringling Papers Loaned Walking Tour of Downtown Baraboo

WHIlE the Al. ringling theatre retains much of its historic integrity, looking much the way it did when it opened in 1915, the theatre is also one of the best-documented early motion picture/vaudeville houses of its day. recently the documents relating to theatre operations from 1915 to 1955 were received by the society on permanent loan from the heirs of Henry ringling Jr., the last family member to own the theatre. Charles Clayton-Jones and his sister Kate Clayton-Jones have lent the papers to the society, which comprise approximately sixty file drawers of material, along with original theatre ledger books and other items. the collection was meticulously maintained by theatre manager, C. l roser, who kept every document relating to the operation of the theatre. the papers include everything from letters to and from motion picture companies, blueprints for minor modifications to the building, color brochures from seating companies and rare dictated letters from Al. ringling before he died six weeks after the theatre opened. the collection provides many avenues for researchers and will help provide a better understanding of the theatre’s importance in the community and the nation.

t he s auk County Historical society would like to thank Charles and Kate Clayton-Jones for making this collection more accessible and for sharing it with us.

A WAlKING tour of historic downtown Baraboo will be given on sunday, september 9 at  p.m. by society President, Paul Wolter. the tour, which will last about one and a half hours, will start in front of the historic sauk County Courthouse and proceed around the square. the history of the downtown business district will be highlighted along with the history of many of the unique buildings that make up the square. the many fires that have ravaged the area, the celebrations held on the square, and some of the colorful personalities that have influenced the square will be discussed along with the wonderful historic architecture. the walking tour is free and open to the public.

Volunteers who helped move the Ringling Theatre memorabilia from the Charles Ringling house on 8th Street to the History Center were: Pam and Ralph Krainik, Paul Washam, Bryant Hazard, Irv Hazard, Bev Vaillancourt, Joan Fordham, Bill Schuette, Paul Wolter, and Mona Larsen.

The artist who created this line drawing of Fourth Avenue in the late 1880s conveniently omitted one building. Come on the tour to find out which one and why. (We’ll also explain why there’s a horse coming out of the front door of a shop)

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings

Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

You first.

WANTED:

•GooD, used swivel desk chair for use at the museum. Call 356-1001

• PHotos of the Juliar theatre. the society has few photos of this building, and we’ve received a request for a photo from a writer doing a book on Wisconsin theatres. Henry ringling, Al. ringling’s nephew, and the owner of the Al. ringling theatre, built the Juliar theatre in 1938. the name is derived from the maiden name of the ringling Brothers mother, salome Juliar ringling. the Juliar theatre was a sparsely decorated Art Deco box, holding 0 seats and provided programming alternatives to the Al. ringling theatre. the Juliar went out of business in 1959 and was demolished to make way for the West square Building in 199 Your photos will be scanned and returned to you unharmed.

Perennial summer road construction is nothing new in Sauk County. This 1910 photo shows Springfield steam-powered rollers working on Highway 33, two miles east of Baraboo. The water tank wagon, on the left, is filled from a supply tank, far left, and is used to supply the steamrollers. It appears that the old dirt road is getting a layer of gravel, in anticipation of the arrival of the new fangled horseless carriages.

Ron Rich Portrait Photos Available

lou rich recently donated her husband’s extensive collection of negatives to the sauk County Historical society. ron rich was a Baraboo portrait photographer for many years. He also saw the beauty of sauk County and recorded scores of landscape scenes on film. the Baraboo area was also the subject of many of his photos. the sCHs is now the repository for this collection of historic images.

Many of the negatives that lou gave to the society, consist of wedding, confirmation and graduation pictures. through the generosity of Mrs. rich, the society is making available to the public, these portraits as a fund-raiser. If anyone would like to have a copy of their wedding, confirmation or graduation, the cost is $10 for the first photo, and $5 for each additional photo from the same sitting. Most photos are black and white.

so if ron rich was your portrait photographer from the 1950’s through the 1970’s, and you’d like to have a photo of one of these special events, give us a call at the museum (608-356-1001), and we’ll attempt to accommodate your request. the collection is vast, however it may not be complete, and you will be informed if a negative is not found.

The Violet Ray Generator— A Cure for All Your Ills

By Bill schutte

DurING the early part of the 0th Century, enterprising inventors discovered a device that would cure all manner of human ills. It was called a Violet ray Generator. Proponents claimed that it would cure dandruff, falling hair, rheumatism, headaches and insomnia. other cures touted were leg and back pain, sciatic pains and impotence. Additionally, ailments such as brain fog, carbuncle, gray hair, hemorrhoids, lumbago, writer’s cramp and wrinkles, were also on the list of miracle cures.

the Violet ray Generator is a hand-held tesla coil that produces a radio frequency that energizes a lowpressure gas electrode. When activated, the gas inside a sealed glass device glows violet, much like a neon sign. Also produced is ozone and ultraviolet light, which was said to have additional curative powers. some units produced a spark up to 3" when placed near a patient’s skin.

to use the device, a mushroom-shaped glass wand was placed into the handle and gently passed over the affected area of the body. the patient felt a warming sensation, similar to today’s diathermy machines. More sophisticated devices of this type were commonly used in doctor’s offices throughout the first half of the 0th Century.

the home version of a Violet ray Generator,

pictured here, was also available for under $10.00 in the 190's. Hundreds of thousands of the devices were sold to gullible relief-seekers.

A 1930's advertisement for the device boasted of its curative powers:

“One of the most remarkable developments of the wonderful science of electricity is that of the Violet Ray machine or high frequency generator. The Violet Ray may be said to be a diffusion of an electrical current of tremendous power and resistance, into millions of tiny harmless units which can be applied to the tenderest and most delicate parts of the body without the slightest harm. As applied to the human body, its results have been found to be of enormous benefit in innumerable instances.”

“

the ad goes on to state that,

Impurities are washed from the affected organs by a rich, warm flow of blood which nourishes and stimulates the tissues and which is generated by the penetrating current of the Violet Ray, reaching the cells which supply life to the tissue, and causing them to vibrate”.

A more modern form of this device is still in use today. some hairdressers use a plastic wand, which operates much like its antique cousin, and is used for scalp stimulation and massage.

Victorian Tea a Great Success!

IN its heyday the home of Jacob and Martha Van orden was the scene of many parties and social gatherings. Although it is currently the sauk County Historical Museum the mansion will again feature more social gatherings especially after the sauk County History Center opens.

As a preview, the sauk County Historical society held a Victorian tea on saturday, June 16, with no less a celebrity than Mrs. Nadia Van orden, the wife of lucas schuyler Van orden IV, presiding as hostess. Elite Catering served such delicacies as cucumber & watercress sandwich, scones, and ladyfingers, while Bekah Kate's generously donated a variety of colorful teas. tables were set with bone china and decorated with flowers donated by Darleen Bechmann.

Melanie Burgi and shannon Cummings played the part of the perfect Victorian maids, circulating quietly among the happy guests. tootie and the Bowfish, a classical quartet consisting of Gail Bird, Inger Clemens, Mona larsen and Paul Wolter, provided music. to cap the event, Betsy urwin of the state Historical society's Wade House, gave a talk and demonstration of the proper attire worn by a woman of society in the 1860's. Many of the guests were also attired in period costume.

several guests traveled from as far as Milwaukee and lake Mills to take advantage of this inaugural event.

The Gift of History

I want to help preserve sauk County’s history by becoming a member of the sauk County Historical society.

o $0 o $35 o $50 o $100 o $50

o $500 o $1000 o $500 o other

Please send me more information on:

o Memorials/bequests

o Charitable trust

o life insurance gifts

o Gifts of appreciated assets

o sponsorship opportunities

o sauk County History Center

Name ____________________________________

Address __________________________________

City, state, ZIP ____________________________

Please provide the following information if you would like us to contact you by phone.

Phone ____________________________________

Best contact time: ___________________________

Please clip this form and return to:

The Sauk County Historical Society 531 Fourth Avenue

P. O. Box 651 Baraboo, Wisconsin 53913

Betsy Urwin, standing, models Victorian attire of the 1860’s.

July/August 007

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.o. Box 651

531 fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

New and Renewed Members

THeSe ARe MeMBeRS THAT HAVe JOINeD OR ReNeWeD SINCe JANuARY 1, 2007. THANk YOu FOR YOuR SuPPORT

Patron

Mona and Gene larsen Baraboo WI

Edwin Bodendein laValle WI

Eric lewison Baraboo WI

Sponsor

Karl and Melanie Burgi Baraboo WI

robert Dewel Baraboo WI

Wayne Hatz Baraboo WI

ralph and Pam Krainik Baraboo WI

tom Kriegl Baraboo WI

Helen saloutos Baraboo WI

William schuette reedsburg WI

Alan scoles Witchita Ks

Joe and lou Ann Ward Baraboo WI

Paul Wolter Wisconsin Dells WI

susan Williams Waukesha WI

William and Corinne Beard Baraboo WI

Gary Kowalke Baraboo WI

Mark and Candice Graupman reedsburg WI

Walter and Yvonne smith Baraboo WI

Gene and Jan suchomel reedsburg WI

ron and lynda Barganz Baraboo WI

Eric and Ginny lewison Baraboo WI

Friend

James Delacour tacoma WA

Dan and sandy Edwards Baraboo WI

Donna lange reedsburg WI

Charles and Jeanne Marking Baraboo WI

Don and Dirk topham Baraboo WI

Paul and Aural umhoefer Baraboo WI

Audrey Wendt Baraboo WI

robert and louise Yeck silver springs MD

Merlin and Jenele Zitzner Baraboo WI

Dean and Jean friday Austin tX

frederic Behn rock springs WI

Bernard and roberta Hotzel Baraboo WI

Krisha Miner and family Madison WI

Marnie Krainik Waukesha WI

lawrence and Catherine senger Baraboo WI

Bobbie Wickus Baraboo WI

Judy Ashford Merrimac WI

lyle and June Coates Baraboo WI

Family

librarian Allen County Public library fort Wayne IN

Keith and Virginia Anderson Baraboo WI

robert and Patti Brown Merrimac WI

Donald and Wilma Cook Emporia Ks

Bob and Carolyn Doepke Baraboo WI

Ken and Mary Grant Baraboo WI

Charles and Donna Green Baraboo WI

linda and Doug luther

Greenwood Village Co

richard and linda Jenks Baraboo WI

Marvin and Barbara Juliar Evanston Il

Jim and Marilyn Karch Baraboo WI

Janet and Clair Keylock Baraboo WI

Arthur and frances Koenig Madison WI

Herb and Darlene Messer Baraboo WI

steve and libby rundio Baraboo WI

Allan & Nancy schmid Baraboo WI

William and Marian schreiber Baraboo WI

Peter and June sturgis Baraboo WI

Neil and lucille thompson Baraboo WI

Harold & Audrey Hein Baraboo WI

Joe and linda Van Berkel Baraboo WI

terry and Patricia turnquist Baraboo WI

Jan and fawn Masalewicz Waukesha WI

Al & lola DuBois Palm Harbor fl

Jerry & Ellen Dargel Baraboo WI

ron and rose Birdd reedsburg WI

Albert and Allegra Zick North freedom WI

rich and JJ Calton Cheyenne WY

Mike and Mary schell Baraboo WI

robert and Joyce Breen Hartford WI

John and Dorothy sorg Prairie du sac WI

Bob and Darlene Hill Baraboo WI

Bryan and Mary reeve spring Green WI

Mike and Peg Martiny Princeville Il

ron and lynn trok (risley) Cable WI

Pat, Kim, Makenna and Adam Wilson Huntington IN

Cyril and Mary Dickeman reedsburg WI

Peter and Elise Etzweiler Baraboo WI

Don and Verna shook Baraboo WI

Gaylon, shirley and Emma steinhorst Baraboo WI

Pete and Char Malinosky Bloomington MN

Dean and Judy Brice Baraboo WI

Phil and Joan Anderson Baraboo WI

tom and sue Holmes Baraboo WI

Joe and Beth Prindle Baraboo WI

Dave Casey laValle WI

fred rochacewicz Baraboo WI

Guy & Mary Porth Milwaukee WI

Bill and Amy schertz Baraboo WI

Denise and Dave statz Baraboo WI

richard and sheila roznos Baraboo WI

Individual

Betty Marquardt Baraboo WI

Audrey Belter florence AZ

Craig Caflisch Baraboo WI

Donald Cole Deforest WI

John fletcher Baraboo WI

Margo Gallus Merrimac WI

Dick Goddard North freedom WI

robert Johnson Baraboo WI

Joyce Karg Baraboo WI

William Kidder Ewing NJ

Henrietta Marini Baraboo WI

Barb Naidl Baraboo WI

sandra stiemke loganville WI

Barbara Vester los Angeles CA

ruth Woods Alexandria VA

leota Bellows Baraboo WI

Christopher Goetz lakewood WI

sandy Kjernes Edgerton WI

lola Huber North freedom WI

fred Marini Melrose WI

Kathy steckelberg Arlington VA

Phyllis stanton Baraboo WI

thomas Bladl fond du lac WI

Mike Wolcott Hartland WI

Donald Dutcher Broomfield Co

Nancy Kreier Portage WI

Beatrice Blau sun Prairie WI

Jack Pittman Atlantic IA

ronald Bauer reedsburg WI

Brenda Holloway Baraboo WI

sandy Maul Billings Mt

Joan McArthur Baraboo WI

luanne Krohn reedsburg WI

Marilyn rohde Baraboo WI

sharen Grimsley Pacolet sC

Kim Nesenson Champlin MN

Max Carpenter Indianapolis IN

Wayne Pivotto Montello WI

Mary Vespia Arlington WI

Jim Michaels Baraboo WI

robert schultz Waukesha WI

shirley spees Baraboo WI

Karin Weiss tigard or

lindy larsen Baraboo WI

Eileen lambert Campbell CA

Wava Vertein North freedom WI

Betty Cook Clarksville tN

Marie Kolberg Madison WI

Kevin Jackson Cudahy WI

Bruce ley Waupun WI

Ellen Hosig Baraboo WI

richard Eakins Windsor WI

Corinne rasmussen Cable WI

Peter Premo Baraboo WI

Bev shook Baraboo WI

Inger Clemens Wisconsin Dells WI

sandy Kaufmann Madison WI

Barbara Harvey sonora CA

robert & Marjorie litscher Baraboo WI

ralph & Carol Zahnow Middleton WI

reva o'Brien Park falls WI

Barbara Wolfe Waunakee WI

Sauk County Historical Society Hires Executive Director and Curator

After an extensive search the Sauk County Historical Society has hired Orris Smith of reedsburg as its new executive Director. A Sauk County native, Smith has been in retail management for many years and has also been very active in service organizations. Smith recently organized the reedsburg Kiwanis group and is its charter President. In his new position with the Sauk County Historical Society, Smith will oversee administration of the Society and help it fulfill its mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk County history. Smith, who grew up in Baraboo, began his career working at the Al. ringling theatre for 9 years while going to school, and later transitioned to retail management in southern Wisconsin. Smith recently returned to Sauk County and has been a life long member of a Baraboo church. In his position as executive Director, Smith will oversee budget implementation, be responsible for staff supervision, assist in fund raising, represent the Society at community functions, and oversee operation of the Van Orden mansion and the new History Center.

the Society has also hired a new part-time Curator, Destinee Swanson, of Deadwood, South Dakota. Swanson, who has been Curator and Archivist at the Adams House in Deadwood, has relocated to West Baraboo and accepted the position here. Swanson has a masters degree in American History and Museum Studies and brings years of practical museum experience to her new position. Swanson’s duties will include overseeing the Society’s collections, new accessions, exhibits and new education programs.

Stop by the Sauk County Historical Society and welcome Orris and Destinee!

Sauk County Historical Society Executive Director, Orris Smith

Sauk County Historical Society Curator, Destinee Swanson

President’s Report

WHIle almost a cliché, I must say “lots has been happening at the Society lately.” I would like to officially welcome our two new staff members, Orris Smith and Destinee Swanson. Smith started in August as our new executive Director and found himself immediately initiated into our flurry of late summer activity, which included our presence at the Badger Steam and Gas Show. Smith helped with our book sales and exhibits at the show, which were praised by a staff member of the State Historical Society who happened by. Since the show Smith has been busy learning all of the systems of the Society’s operations and becoming familiar with all of our volunteers and collections. Smith has come up to speed just in time for our new curator Destinee Swanson to start with the Society. Swanson has relocated from Deadwood, South Dakota where she was Curator at the historic Adams House. Her experience and training no doubt will build upon the work that has been ongoing at the Society to modernize collections management and display. Not to be outdone, work at the History Center has also been ongoing and exciting. I still have to pinch myself every once and a while that we now own such a significant piece of Sauk County history and can restore it for use as a wonderful new resource for the county. this sturdy historic building has stood the test of time and will last for many years to come as another tangible reminder of Sauk County’s history and at the same time become a repository for that ever-expanding history. I look forward to our gala opening some day in the future and would like to sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to the Pillars of Progress Campaign. While there is much work left to be done, those “Pillars” are looking better and better.

Paul Wolter

Upcoming Events

Sauk County History Center Update

tHe HIStOrIC Island Woolen Company building has seemingly grown several feet taller since the Society obtained the building in late 006. the grade around the building has been restored to its original level, exposing about four more feet of brick on the front and north facades of the building. the change has brought about a distinctly grander feel to the building, certainly the clear intent of the architects. the original 1917 stairs to the front door also have been uncovered, and while in need of repair, they are still sufficiently intact to restore. As of this writing, thirty-six donors (inclusive of a one-time $100,000 grant from Sauk County) have contributed nearly $150,000 to the Pillars of Progress fundraising Campaign. every dollar contributed has been earmarked to purchase materials and labor needed for the building’s restoration. to date, contributions have been used for masonry repairs and foundation sealing, a new roof, new utilities connections and re-grading. Sixty-one new and historically correct windows have been purchased for the building and await installation. Additional pledges of just over $4,000 also have been received. Once realized, these dollars will be put toward continued restoration efforts. the Society's Board of Directors is committed to spending only cash on hand for the project. this leaves a current and pressing need for funds to install the windows and repair the front stairs, both projects costing about $15,000 each.

History Center Donors

PiLLAR Of PROGRESS OWNER

robert Dewel

Pedro Kuczynski & Nancy lange *

HiSTORy CENTER BENEfACTOR

Dick & Jane Dana *

CLAUDE & STARk ASSOCiATE

Virgil & edith Hartje

eugene & Mona larsen *

Helen Saloutos *

Bill Schuette

Joseph & lou Ann Ward

iSLAND WOOLEN MiLL fRiEND

Merlin Zitzner

SECOND CENTURy SPONSOR

Judith Ashford

Gilbert & Gail Bird

lawrence & Patricia Bittermann

Janet & ronald Brandt

Dean & Judy Brice

Jerry & Patricia Bullard

John & Ann Burton

Jerry & Marynel Corton

russell & Pearl Douglas

SECOND CENTURy SPONSOR

(continued)

John & elizabeth Dutton

Joan fordham

russell & Anita Hantzsch

Bryant Hazard

lawrence & lola Huber

Jerrald & Alice Kindschi

Arthur & frances Koenig

Alonna Pointon

Alice Popp & Gladys Proctor

Catherine rinkob

David Saloutos

William & Marian Schreiber

Kathryn Steckelberg

eugene Suchomel

Neil & lucille thompson

Bev Vaillancourt

Paul Wolter

CONTRiBUTOR

Patrick & Beverly Cabbage

Wayne Hatz

James & Sarah Poker

* Pledge

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

Walking Tour of Downtown Baraboo a Great Success!

ON SuNDAy, September 9th a walking tour of historic downtown Baraboo was given by Society President, Paul Wolter. A group of nearly fifty people gathered on the Square to learn about the development of Baraboo and the business blocks, which were built around the courthouse square. Several massive fires occurred in the late 1800s destroying early wood business buildings and clearing the way for most of the brick buildings seen today. One rare survivor from early Baraboo discussed is the structure at 137 third Avenue, the white building with gable front in the background. the building was built in 1850 by John taylor as one of four store buildings on the south side of the Square. While the others were torn down or consumed by fire this building remains as the oldest and only all wood building left on the square, a unique link back to pioneer times.

New Local History Books Available

fOur great new local history books have come off the presses this fall covering different aspects of Sauk County history. Any of these would make a great Christmas gift!

Lives Inspired Here, which outlines the history of the first business district block in Sauk City has been written and produced by Sheila Anderson. the 50 page book includes over 90 historic photos and took Anderson over twelve years of research and interviews to complete. the book covers the 900 Block of Water Street. Copies can be obtained from Anderson directly for $30 plus postage ($4.60 within Wisconsin and $5.50 outside of Wisconsin) by calling 608-643-8507. Copies will also be available at the Sauk County Historical Museum.

America’s Prettiest Playhouse is a new full color booklet about the Al. ringling theatre with text by Dr. Bob Dewel, Mark tully and Paul Wolter. the 47-page booklet is lavishly illustrated with historic and modern photos and drawings. the history and construction of the theatre along with a detailed description of the building—from organ loft to orchestra pit—are included in this first-ever color publication about the theatre. Copies are $15 and can be obtained at the Al ringling theatre.

Troy Tales and Trails, 1850s-1950s is a comprehensive illustrated history of the town of troy written and produced by the Harrisburg Home & Community education Club. It covers the early history of the township, and histories of the schools, churches,

businesses, farm and home life, clubs, and other topics. the following communities are extensively covered in the book: Badger Valley, Black Hawk, Cassell Prairie, Cedar Hill, fair Valley, Harrisburg, lower Wilson Creek, troy Center, Witwen, and north west troy. the soft cover book contains 315 pages with 60 photos, most of historic buildings and events. Copies are $5 (plus $5 for shipping if mailed) and may be obtained at the M&I Bank in Sauk City; Bank of Prairie du Sac, Community Business Bank in Sauk City and Hall Drug Store. the book may also be ordered from elaine Wilhelm, S10914 CtH C, Spring Green, WI, 53588.

finally, M. richard tully’s A Man Called Baraboo is scheduled to be on the press as you read these lines, and will be available through several local outlets (including the Sauk County Historical Museum) by the end of October. the first chapter of this book explores the dozens of theories for the origin of the name “Baraboo” that have been circulating over many decades. the rest of the book tells of the life and times of the 18th-century fur trader that tully ultimately identifies as “a man called Baraboo.” the book draws heavily on primary sources and features numerous maps, illustrations (both original and historic) and photographs (including many fur trade-era artifacts) collected from the library of Congress plus various museums, libraries and manuscript archives throughout Canada and the u.S.—including the Sauk County Historical Society’s collections.

this 6x9 format, 190-page soft cover book details a period of Midwestern history that is often overlooked. It is extensively footnoted and includes a complete bibliography. Copies are $1.95 plus postage ($5.00) and will be available through Bananaboat Advertising Graphics, 60 Park Street, Baraboo WI 53913, or from the Sauk County Historical Museum.

Incidentally, America’s Prettiest Playhouse, Troy Tales and Trails, and A Man Called Baraboo were all designed and produced by Bananaboat Advertising Graphics of Baraboo—the same folks who produce this newsletter!

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings. Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913

608.356.7449

You first.

The Gift of History

I want to help preserve Sauk County’s history by becoming a member of the Sauk County Historical Society.

o Individual $0 o family $35 o friend $50

o Sponsor $100

o Patron $50

o Benefactor $500

o Van Orden Circle $1,000

o Canfield Associates $,500

o H. e. Cole Club $5,000+

Please send me more information on:

o Memorials/bequests

o Charitable trust

o life insurance gifts

o Gifts of appreciated assets

#4718 m

Securities are offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member NASD/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal

o Sponsorship opportunities

o Sauk County History Center

Name ____________________________________

Address __________________________________

City, _____________________________________

State, ZIP ________________________________

Please provide the following information if you would like us to contact you by phone.

Phone ____________________________________

Best contact time: ___________________________

Please clip this form and return to:

The Sauk County Historical Society 531 fourth Avenue

P. O. Box 651 Baraboo, Wisconsin 53913

(608) 356-1001

Raymond James Financial Services

“The Ghoul of Parfrey’s Gorge”

by Marshall thomas Martin, M.D.,Merrimack, Wisconsin, 1913

I HAD been riding nearly all day in the burning sun. It was the fourth of July. My celebration had been a ten-mile drive to operate on a little boy who had received a pistol-shot wound at the hands of a playmate.

late in the evening, I left the patient in comparative comfort; though my heart had many misgivings as to the outcome of the ordeal.

the night was more oppressive than the day had been. A black bank of ominous clouds was slowly rising in the west, and soon obscured the red crescent of the moon only a few days old.

everything was dull and lifeless. the air was thick and motionless. the crickets chirped lazily, as if it was an effort. the frogs in the fens croaked listlessly. the mosquitos were dazed, and their usually intense falsetto was almost inaudible. there was an occasional lightning-flash, which was so distant that it seemed sluggish in its rippling course.

My faithful horse was breathing hard, even at a slow gait. However, in view of the approaching storm, I gently urged him on.

When about half way home, I passed near a most weird though picturesque glen. the proximity revived in my mind the many tales recounted regarding the uncanny though beautiful spot by ancient residents at their evening gatherings in old-fashioned log houses.

the glen is a rock-bound defile three quarters of a mile in extent, with precipitous sides rising sixty to one hundred feet above a small rivulet that winds and gurgles on the flinty floor of the ravine.

Instinctively, I touched the horse with the tassel on the end of my whip and hurried by the desolate and haunting locality.

reaching home, without any untoward event, I lay down on a couch in the office to ponder over the labors of the day.

I had my gaze fixed on a human skull that graced the top of an oaken bookcase, when the office-door opened with a slight creak, and there entered a most beautiful girl, apparently about eighteen years old. It seemed that I was acquainted with my visitor, although it was some seconds before I could get matters arranged in my memory. It was little less that forty years since a face like that had come before my vision. the one who arose in my mind was a schoolmate a generation passed, and she had departed this life more than three decades before, when about the age of this young woman now

sitting daintily in my waiting-room.

I attempted to rise; but, with a graceful gesture, she motioned to me to remain on the couch.

She was the first to speak, and, with a most mellifluous voice, she said: - “I am Azubah. After your removal from Brookville, my parents sent me to the academy in Sunnyside. While there, the students became greatly interested in religious matters. My father and mother being firm believers in Spiritualism, I was called back from the school until the revival was a thing of the past.

“In a sort of desperate endeavor to enliven the monotony of existence, I eloped with a journeyman printer entirely out of my social and intellectual sphere.

“During our weary honeymoon, we visited this gruesome gorge, the mouth of which you lately passed so near and so hurriedly. We clambered up the east bluff to look down into the darkling abyss. Having gone about half the length of the glen, we came to a large pine-tree growing on the brink of the precipice. It leaned far over so that its top was much beyond the edge of the opposite wall. A wild impulse seized me, and, reckless of the results, I rushed impetuously toward the tree, telling my husband that I would cross on it to the other side. I ran up the slanting and almost horizontal trunk until about the middle of the chasm, when my feet slipped, and I was dashed on the mossy crags fifty feet below.”

At this point in her recital, I made a herculean effort to rise, and managed to stagger to my feet. I walked unsteadily toward the lovely apparition. Before I reached her, she had gracefully left the cushioned chair, opened the creaking door, thrown me a kiss with her tapering fingers, and vanished as noiselessly as had been her advent into my presence.

A few moments later, as I was striving to collect my tumultuous thoughts, there came a resound knock at the street-door. I hastened to open it, and, in the darkness, saw a young woman on horseback. She had reached from her saddle and struck the door with butt of her riding-whip. the horse was a fine animal, reeking with sweat and foaming at the mouth, while he champed nervously on the bit. the rider’s face looked strangely like the girl who had so lately occupied my attention; but I gave the resemblance no thought because of the imperative message that she bore. She said that I was wanted immediately up at the gorge, where a man had been injured by a fall among the rocks while out hunting.

As fast as possible, I hitched up a younger horse and started

rapidly on the five-mile trip.

the storm was just commencing, a few stray drops of rain were striking my carriage-top like shot. the lightning was vivid and incessant, revealing a long line of fluffy clouds in advance of the jetty stratum betokening a strong wind.

I drove as fast as safety permitted, keeping the road by the light of the constant electrical discharges. the heavy thunder was as ceaseless as the lightning.

the limit of travel by vehicle was reached, as the rain began to fall in sheets, and the wind to blow a hurricane.

I tied the horse to a tree, took my medicine-case, and went cautiously on among the rocks. As I neared the black and yawning portals of the gorge, the young woman who gave me the call suddenly appeared, and taking my valise, requested me to follow. Again noting the contour of facial lineaments so wondrously similar to those of my spectral visitant, I was loath to do her bidding, but, without a word, complied with her imperious command.

She led me not into the gorge, but along the ascent of the east bluff. She went bounding over the jagged and perilous rocks at such a pace that I was breathless and could ask no questions.

the deluge was now nothing less that appalling. there came a dazzling flash, followed by a reverberating crash of thunder that shook the hills. During this blinding lightning, I caught a glimpse of a large pine-tree inclined almost horizontally across the chasm.

I looked for the young woman, but she had disappeared. I called wildly, but no answer came.

I heard a wail like the cry of a tortured child. It was repeated. I turned toward the sound, only to hear it once more. My blood ran cold, I could not move a muscle. A quick motion among the leaves, a wild shriek, a heavy body launched against me, a hot breath on my face, and I toppled over with the impact. there was a sense of falling, falling, falling, and then all consciousness was gone.

With the returning glimmer of sensation, I found, by the lightning, which still came in an occasional mellow glow, that I was lying on the ground in a watery place some distance out from the jaws of the gorge.

I was stiff and sore, one arm and several ribs were broken.

I managed to get to my horse, and rode slowly and painfully homeward.

the following morning, a report came to town that a gigantic wildcat was discovered dead, on the top of one of the gnarled boulders at the bottom of the gorge just above the seething, roaring waters of the swollen stream.

Annual Banquet and Business Meeting Oct. 23

tHe SOCIety will hold its annual fall banquet and business meeting on tuesday, October 3 at 6 p.m. at the Baraboo Arts Banquet Hall on Water Street. Dinner will be catered by elite Catering followed by a presentation of the year in review including an update on the Society’s expansion project at the Sauk County History Center. the special guest speaker will be Carol Anderson who will discuss troy tales and trails, 1850s-1950s, one of the latest historical publications available in the county. Anderson is a member of the Harrisburg Home & Community education Club which compiled and produced the book which covers the unique and fascinating aspects of this part of Sauk County. the Society will also hold a short business meeting to elect board members and update its members. An insert can be found in this issue to sign up for the banquet. the sign up deadline is October 19th.

September/October 007

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

New and Renewed Members

THANk yOU TO THESE MEMBERS WHO HAVE RENEWED BETWEEN MAy 1 AND JULy 31, 2007

BeNefACtOr

John and elizabeth Davenport, Minnetonka MN

PAtrON

David and Sherry Baldwin, Baraboo WI

SPONSOr

Steve and eleanor Chiquoine, reedsburg WI

Dave and Diane Pietenpol, Green Bay WI

Mike & Sue Johnson, Wisconsin Dells WI

Betty thiessen, Baraboo WI

Jerry and Patricia Bullard, reedsburg WI

rose e lee & Assoc, Baraboo WI

frIeND leVel

Susi fathauer, Phoenix AZ

Carol Hulterstrum, Baraboo WI

Alice Popp, Baraboo WI

Paul and Judy Washam, Baraboo WI

John and Ann Burton, Baraboo WI

Gib Gail and thomas Bird, Baraboo WI

August and Beverley Pieper, Madison WI

Harold and Sharon Steiger, Beach Park Il

robert and Diana Hrabovsky, Whichita falls tX

fAMIly leVel

ray and Hazel Bayley, Madison WI

Susan Bock, Cincinnati OH

ron and Janet Brandt, elgin Il

Ben and fran Conway, loves Park Il

James and Marsha Davis, reedsburg WI

Albert and Nita Dippel, Baraboo WI

Buddy and Sue Gogue, Baraboo WI

eleanor Mede, Normal Il

larry McCoy & Keri Olson, Baraboo WI

Mike and lisa Mossman, North freedom WI

Harvey and Carol Myers, reedsburg WI

Glenn and Marilyn Quale, Baraboo WI

frank and Colleen terbilcox, Baraboo WI

Scott and rachel larson, Baraboo WI

Beverly and Pat Cabbage, Spokane WA

leo and Joyce Bronkalla, Baraboo WI

John McKnight, evanston Il

Ben and Joan Hilmer, roscoe Il

Anne and Jeff Smith, Baraboo WI

richard Johnson, laValle WI

Paula Hanskett, Baraboo WI

Bob and Vi tully, Baraboo WI

Sheldon Stanley, Columbia Heights MN

Judy & Donna Hamilton, Nichols Beloit WI

Paula Dickson, Sauk City WI

ron and rose Birdd, reedsburg WI

Neal and Donna Meier, Baraboo WI

tom and linda Kolb, Baraboo WI

INDIVIDuAl leVel

Neal Simons, Minneapolis MN

edward Kurtz, Baraboo WI

Nancy leeming, Ithaca Ny

Catharine Ostlind, Prairie du Sac WI

Kay Prosser, Baraboo WI

louise rich, Baraboo WI

Vera Scoles, Baraboo WI

Jean Smith, Baraboo WI

Helen Stieve, Prairie du Sac WI

Dorothy Williams, Baraboo WI

Gene Setwyn, reedsburg WI

Sharon Weisensel, fox lake WI

Janet Bjornsen, Baraboo WI

Arlene Jordan, Baraboo WI

Ann effinger, Merrimac WI

Sandra Granroth, fitchburg WI

Dick Nold, Oronoco MN

tim Cooper, Madison WI

Janet Pearson, Baraboo WI

Diana Hofman, Murrieta CA

Susan teska, Baraboo WI

Judy Colden, Middleton WI

tom Nelson, Vancouver WA

Susan Bingler, Jeffersonton VA

Joan ryan, lodi WI

Jeffrey Zuzunaga, Baraboo WI

Mary Bernau, Milwaukee WI

Arnita ready, Waunakee WI

Katie Conway, Baraboo WI

Chris Bosshard, lake Delton WI

lawrence Hudziak, White Bear lake MN

Victorian Christmas Open House December 8th, 2007

Live music, twelve decorated trees, and horsedrawn carriage rides will highlight the Sauk County Historical Society’s eighth annual victorian Christmas Open House on December 8th from 12-8 P.M. at the van Orden Mansion in Baraboo. The mansion, located at 531 Fourth Avenue, will be decked out for the holidays with twelve stunning Christmas trees decorated by area designers, florists, businesses and volunteers including Amber Moon, Crazy Daisy, Bekah Kate’s, The village Booksmith, King Louie’s Java Stop, David SaLoutos, Lindy Larsen, Mary Alexander, DReAMS and Society volunteers. Guests to the museum will be able to vote for their favorite tree this year by donating $1 per vote in specially wrapped gift boxes by each tree. Proceeds will fund the Society’s Living History educational program.

in what has become a Sauk County Historical Society Christmas tradition, horse drawn carriage rides will once again ferry people from the Square to the mansion and around the block, providing an authentic jingle bell experience. inside the mansion, guests will enjoy holiday goodies at the bountiful dessert table. This year’s showcase centerpiece will be a gingerbread replica of the beautiful 1902 Green Residence of Reedsburg, chosen as the model for this year’s gingerbread creation. Live music will enhance the open house as area musicians perform a variety of Christmas music in a range of formats from choral selections to string, brass, and wind ensembles

throughout the day. The day wouldn’t be complete without the Christmas gift raffle featuring a variety of items from area businesses and volunteers. everyone is invited to this very special Sauk County holiday tradition.

In what has become a Sauk County tradition, twelve trees will grace the Van Orden mansion for the holidays with many decorated by area designers and businesses.

sauk County History Center update

AS 2007 draws to a close, the historic island Woolen Mill building is slowly coming back to life. New life, quite literally, in the form of new landscaping has been placed around the building giving it much-needed context. Large pear trees, catalpas, maples, and arborvitaes as well as viburnum bushes have been planted around the building thanks to the generosity of Dave and Denise Statz of Baraboo. The trees and shrubs have added instant “curb appeal” to the building and will be a beautiful asset for many years to come. equally as important, funds have been received from an anonymous donor to have the new windows installed, which the Society purchased earlier this year. in addition, four new basement windows have been donated by virgil Hartje to restore four window openings uncovered during excavation. Society volunteers have installed twelve windows in the basement level of the building but large equipment and crews are needed to install the remaining 53 windows. This work will begin soon and fundraising will continue throughout the winter for upcoming projects, which include repairing the front steps and installing heating and air conditioning systems.

Pillar of Progress owner

Robert Dewel

Pedro Kuczynski & Nancy Lange *

History Center BenefaCtor

Dick & Jane Dana *

ClauDe & stark assoCiate

virgil & edith Hartje

eugene & Mona Larsen *

Helen SaLoutos *

Bill Schuette

Joseph & Lou Ann Ward

islanD woolen

Mill frienD

Merlin Zitzner

Bob and Rosa Fleming

seConD Century sPonsor

Judith Ashford

Gilbert & Gail Bird

Lawrence & Patricia Bittermann

Janet & Ronald Brandt

Dean & Judy Brice

Jerry & Patricia Bullard

John & Ann Burton

Jerry & Marynel Corton

Russell & Pearl Douglas

John & elizabeth Dutton

Joan Fordham

Russell & Anita Hantzsch

Bryant Hazard

Lawrence & Lola Huber

Jerrald & Alice Kindschi

Arthur & Frances Koenig

Alonna Pointon

Alice Popp & Gladys Proctor

Catherine Rinkob

David SaLoutos

William & Marian Schreiber

Kathryn Steckelberg

eugene Suchomel

Neil & Lucille Thompson

Bev vaillancourt

Paul Wolter

David and Marcia Swanson

Frederick Rochacewicz

Lyle and Marge Getschman

Jim and Marilyn Karch

Burt Wright

John and elizabeth

Davenport

Wi energy Corporation Foundation

Garry and Gale Bahe

ContriButor

Patrick & Beverly Cabbage

Wayne Hatz

James & Sarah Poker

Marlene Meyer

Ruth T Woods

William Roberts

Arnita Ready

Jeanette Beard

Kathryn O. Johnson

Dan Dee * Pledge

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

Volunteer Highlight

In an attempt to highlight our wonderful volunteers Old Sauk Trails will include volunteer highlights in our upcoming issues. Volunteers are the backbone of the Society and help fulfill the Society’s mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk Count History.

Jean Smith has been a familiar face around the mansion for over 15 years. She helps out at the museum and volunteers her services for most Society special events. Jean is a consummate researcher who enjoys looking through old newspapers for information. Several years ago Jean began reading every edition of the Baraboo newspapers to research family names including Ringling, Cole, van Orden, Stout and Gollmar along with other historical topics. She also does supplemental research at the Baraboo and Reedsburg libraries. Jean enjoys doing genealogical research for others, but has yet to do her own family history. She was a close friend of Carol Sorg, another consummate researcher. Jean occasionally brings baked treats for the museum staff.

green residence to be replicated in gingerbread

KNOWN historically as the Lavina Green residence, the house at 325 Third Street in Reedsburg will be the inspiration for this year’s gingerbread replica. The Queen Anne house was built in 1902 for Lavina Green and faces Reedsburg’s city park. The prominent home was designed by Lodi architect, Carl C. Menes, and cost $7,000 to construct making it one of the finest residences of its day. The house still retains all of its original features including three story turret and exceptionally large verandah. The house will make a grand centerpiece for the Society’s events during the holidays. The replica is being made by Society volunteers with supplies and workspace donated by Althen’s elite Bakery in Baraboo and with help from master baker, Kay Salecker.

Old Sauk Trails • nov./Dec. 2007

thinking inside the thematic Box: a new way to organize the year

TWO new staffers and a whole new building! Big changes are afoot at the Sauk County Historical Society...and i am one of them. My name is Destinee Swanson and since i started here just a little over a month ago as the new curator, big things have been happening. Let me share with you just one of the exciting concepts we are working on. The calendar year may be drawing to a close, but here at the Society things are just revving up.

The permanent exhibits are better than they have ever been; a coherent history is told, the artifacts are properly protected, and the visitor experience is rewarding and enjoyable. But we need something to bring visitors back. We need to change it up every so often; not a complete overhaul of the existing setup, yet something to prevent us from becoming a stale and static institution.

After putting our heads together, the board and staff have decided to implement a yearly historic theme. This theme will be used as a springboard for an associated temporary exhibit, a lecture series, educational programming, and even marketing possibilities such as a calendar featuring historic photographs relating to the theme. For example, a few we considered and that may be used in the future are “in the Line of Duty: Sauk County and the Factory Phenomenon” and “For God and for Country: Sauk County and World War ii.”

After much discussion and debate, our inaugural theme is “Through a Child’s eyes: Growing Up in Sauk County, 1870-1920.” The childhood experience in the county, with a few exceptions (such as “Good Old Golden Rule Days” by the Rural Schools Research Committee), is a story that has been an afterthought in recent literature and scholarship on the Sauk County area.

Our tentative plans for this theme call for it to run from roughly December of 2007 to November of 2008, with the “Through a Child’s eyes” exhibit slated for unveiling during the victorian Christmas Open House. (Children and Christmas...what could be a better and more logical combination?) The temporary exhibit, currently in the works, is set to have three components covering the primary dimensions of a child’s life: school, chores / work, and play. Artifacts held by the Society such as toys, children's clothing, and schoolbooks, and informative labels will help us tell the story.

By Destinee Swanson, Curator

Next on the thematic agenda would be a threeor four-part lecture series to take place sometime next spring. As expected, the presentations will focus on some aspect of childhood–a life experience we all have in common. in fact, one of the events will be an openforum discussion in which community members will be encouraged to share their own stories and artifacts from their childhood in Sauk County. The discussion will be videotaped and archived as an oral history resource. As for educational programming, some ideas we are tossing around include workshops where participants will make folk toys such as Jacob’s ladders and homemade musical instruments. We will attempt to broaden our focus from the schoolroom to include extracurricular groups such as H clubs, Scouts, and others.

As we invest more resources into the theme and its programming, i will be asking for assistance in the form of volunteer time and specific artifact donations. if you can help in any capacity or have any suggestions, contact me either at my email address (curatords@centurytel.net) or leave a message at the museum office (608356-1001). Together, we can make this happen.

electronic Delivery

WOULD you like to get monthly Society updates via e-mail? We are considering providing members with updates on current events and happenings at the Museum and History Center via email and would like to know if there is interest in receiving this kind of information.

Additionally the Society is able to send you our newsletter via email if you would like it in that format. As the newsletter will be delivered in PDF format, a high speed internet connection would be necessary. if you would like to receive the newsletter via email or would be interested in getting monthly updates and reminders of events and happenings at the Society please let us know by emailing history@ saukcounty.com

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings.

Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913

608.356.7449

You first.

the gift of History

i want to help preserve Sauk County’s history by becoming a member of the Sauk County Historical Society.

o individual $20

o Family $35 o Friend $50

o Sponsor $100

o Patron $250

o Benefactor $500

o van Orden Circle $1,000

o Canfield Associates $2,500

o H. e. Cole Club $5,000+

Please send me more information on:

o Memorials/bequests

o Charitable trust

o Life insurance gifts

o Gifts of appreciated assets

#4718 m

Securities are offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member NASD/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal

o Sponsorship opportunities

o Sauk County History Center

Name ____________________________________

Address __________________________________

City, _____________________________________

State, ZiP ________________________________

Please provide the following information if you would like us to contact you by phone.

Phone ____________________________________

Best contact time: ___________________________

Please clip this form and return to: the sauk County Historical society 531 fourth avenue P. o. Box 651

Baraboo, wisconsin 53913

(608) 356-1001

Raymond James Financial Services

Director asks for Volunteer alert by

i’ve been training for this Director task all my life–i just didn’t know it. Accepting job transfers to twenty-some communities in thirty-plus years made me appreciate this area even more. i have always subscribed to the Baraboo paper, kept up with news here, returned regularly to check things out, and tried to be a family historian along the way. Anytime my family and i would return here, there was a happy sigh when we viewed the “Welcome to Sauk County” road sign.

When i made the decision to return permanently, i brought a desire to not work for any large corporations anymore, but rather a caring organization. i truly found this with the Sauk County Historical Society. The incredible accomplishments of SCHS made the decision rather easy, and i feel fortunate to have been asked to be part of this team. The fact that we’re at a pinnacle of challenge makes the ride even more enjoyable, if challenging. That impressive, statuesque building on Second Avenue symbolizes change while improving this society’s visibility, stature and abilities.

i understand most of our great volunteers have put their Historical Society projects on hold until you know what the new curator or the new director will want. Well, frankly, YOU are what we want–and NeeD. Both Destinee and i have gotten some wind under our wings now, and have enough projects to keep half of Sauk County busy all winter. Obviously, we encourage you to

tour of Historic Haunts Delights Many

iN an eerie coincidence, almost exactly the same number of guests showed up this year for the Society’s second annual Tour of Historic Haunts. 17 people were guided from the Square to several stops along Fourth Street, including Ms. vicky’s Yarn Café, the Rago-Baldwin Funeral Home, the historic Killian residence and the Al. Ringling theatre as well as several outdoor stops. Over 25 people were involved in presenting the event including walking guides, station guides, musicians and performers. The Society would like to sincerely thank everyone who was involved in making the event a huge success. Plans are already underway for a tour next year in the Ochsner Park neighborhood.

Orris Smith, Director

each call ahead if you wish to ensure our availability.

Going forward, we would hope each of our volunteers would give more time than ever to our cause. You have accomplished so much, and seem to genuinely enjoy the museum and the difference you make. We have many research files to create, clippings to file, items to index, data to computer enter, artifacts to catalog, displays to create, cookies to bake, walls to construct, or walls to destruct. Whatever tickles you is likely available right now at your neighborhood historical society.

i’ve discovered through vast community service work that volunteers are the best people anywhere. Many of our Society members are volunteers, and vice-versa. Why? Because you support a cause, a mutual interest, of great benefit to the community. Your interest and dedication are appreciated more than you know.

All facets of operation are important, and i certainly hope that each of you will make plenty of time available to join us ‘newbies’ over the next weeks and cold weather months. Make the museum part of your weekly habit, because we NeeD you.

Thanks for the warm welcome i have received. it has been a distinct pleasure to reconnect with old friends, and make many new friends and acquaintances. i hope to see you often at the museum in the days and weeks ahead.

Society Board Member, John Geoghegan entertained guests at the historic Killian home with stories of the last Irish wake in Baraboo. The home is currently the residence of Bob and Gretchen Roltgen who graciously opened their home for the tour.

gift suggestions for Christmas giving

We have several new books available for Christmas Giving. Four new titles were previewed last month and another is previewed below. Don't forget that we have a 20% discount for members on every title in our collection. Another great gift suggestion is old photographs. We have over 12,000 photos in our collections and we can provide them to you on CD so you can have prints made in the size you need. Also consider a gift membership for those hard to buy for people on your gift list. The newsletters, discounts and activities make this the gift that gives all year long.

Hero of the Red River The Life and Times of Joseph Bailey

By Michael J. Goc

JOSePH Bailey made history in the spring of 186, but his story is larger than that of a single historical event. He lived in a tumultuous time and in more than one dangerous place.

Frontier Wisconsin in the 1850s, where he built a dam at the Dells that he hoped would launch a city and make his fortune.

The front lines of the Civil War with the Union Army in Maryland and the Gulf States where, as a cavalry officer and “practical” engineer, he rose to the rank, of Brigadier General.

Along the way he penned a series of letters that are the basis for this book. They reveal that when a hero was called for, Joseph Bailey stepped up. They also tell us how he dealt with the failure of his city development plan, crooked business partners, inept Union Army officers, the hazards of military service, the corrosive issue of race in the United States, the consequences of fame, and the painful separation from the family he left behind.

A thirty-two-page photo section contains fortyfive color images of the people, the places, the dams and the boats involved. The dust jacket depicts the mural of Bailey, the hero, painted on the wall of the Governor's Conference Room in Madison. The 320-page hardbound book is available for sale at the Sauk County Historical Society and at bookstores in Wisconsin Dells for $25.

2007 annual Banquet Highlights

SeveNTY members attended the annual meeting and banquet of the Sauk County Historical Society in Baraboo on October 23. Food was provided by elite Catering of Baraboo and held at the Baraboo Arts Banquet Hall on Water Street. After dinner, Society President, Paul Wolter, opened the business meeting. The minutes of the 2006 annual meeting and the treasurer’s report were given followed by the election of board members. elected for another three-year term on the board were eleanor Chiquoine, Bev vallaincourt, Bill Schuette, and Mark Graupmann. A year in review presentation highlighting the events of the Society was given by Wolter followed by a presentation by Carol Anderson, Fran Biesek and elaine Wilhelm on the new publication, “Troy Tales and Trails, 1850s-1950s.” The book was produced by the Harrisburg Home and education Club and chronicles the history of the Town of Troy in southern Sauk County.

November/December 2007 the sauk County Historical society

P.O. Box 651 531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, Wi 53913

new and renewed Members

tHank you to tHese MeMBers wHo HaVe reneweD sinCe our last newsletter

BeNeFACTOR

virginia Metcalf and Mary Yeakel, Wisconsin Dells Wi

PATRON

Alan Langeteig, Baraboo Wi

SPONSOR

John and Jean Alt, Baraboo Wi

William and Gretchen Dresen, Baraboo Wi

John & Rikki McNabb, Baraboo Wi

Bart and Char Olson, Merrimac Wi

Brett Topham, Baraboo Wi

Joan Fordham, Baraboo Wi

Clyde and Carolyn Moon, Baraboo Wi

Glen and Mary Schulz, Baraboo Wi

Russell and Pearl Douglas, LavAlle Wi

FRieND

Sue Banaszak, Milwaukee Wi

Bernadette Bittner, Reedsburg Wi

Gene and Karen Filus, Baraboo Wi

John and Jane Geoghegan, Baraboo Wi

Fred and Anita Dahlinger, Baraboo Wi

Robert and Rosa Fleming, Baraboo Wi

Jean and William Brew, Wisconsin Dells Wi

Tim & Susan Schuebel, Baraboo Wi

Garry and Gale Bahe, Merrimac Wi

Phillip and Alonna Pointon, Baraboo Wi

Bryant Hazard, Baraboo Wi

Dennis and Kathleen Thurow, Baraboo Wi

Maxine Triff, Madison Wi

Aliceson and Hal Rubel, Cary iL

Gary and Pam Cummings, Baraboo Wi

Bea and Roman Statz, Baraboo Wi

Jim and Gladys Getschman, Baraboo Wi

Gloria Weth, Rotunda West FL

Jan and Landon Risteen, Chicago iL

Dick and Mary Krueger, Baraboo Wi

Jerry Hohl, Baraboo Wi

FAMiLY

ethan and Mae- Sallee Beals, Shoreline WA

Harland and Darleen Bechmann, Baraboo Wi

Fred Moh & Nancy Jo Dillman, Baraboo Wi

David and Nijole etzwiler, Baraboo Wi

Jerry and Alice Kindschi, Prairie du Sac Wi

Bernard and Diana Long, Waunakee Wi

Craig and Mim Olsen, Baraboo Wi

Harland and Patricia Steinhorst, Citrus Springs FL

David and Marcia Swanson, Baraboo Wi

John and Tonia Young, Baraboo Wi

Paul and Nichelle Martin, Baraboo Wi

Dick & Annette Baker, Reedsburg Wi

Roger LaMasney, Baraboo Wi

Gene and Karen Beth, Rock Springs Wi

Jerry and Nel Corton, Baraboo Wi

erika and Mike Gerhardt Obois, Reedsburg Wi

Jeanne and James Jessie, Norco CA

Andre and Aimee Krainik, Appleton Wi

Dianne and David Bachmann, Wheeling iL

Judy Siebecker Cantu, New Meadows iD

Fran and Nick Kelly, Baraboo Wi

David and Diane Mueller, Cloquet MN

David and Carrie Apker, Oconomowoc Wi

Charles and Mary Warn, Reedsburg Wi

Tim and Nancy Blum, Baraboo Wi

Tom & Beverly Tiedt, Baraboo Wi

iNDiviDUAL

Dolores Barker, Holmen Wi

William Cronon, Madison Wi

Sylvia epstein, Middleton Wi

Nancy Gomez, Del Rio TX

Tom McCarthy, Traverse City Mi

Marlene Meyer, Prairie du Sac Wi

Jim Honer, Madison Wi

Patrick Dewall, Appleton Wi

Janet Dewall, Appleton Wi

Michael May, Madison Wi

Phyllis Miller, Reedsburg Wi

vera Dwars, Baraboo Wi

Sarah Poker, Apple valley MN

Bernice Ringelstetter, Sun Prairie Wi

Nancy Prine, Madison Wi

Carolyn Wafle-Guenther, La Honda CA

Dolores Bahr, Prairie du Sac Wi

Deanna Schulz, Baraboo Wi

John Reardon, Naperville iL

James McBride, Santa Fe NM

Pam elsing, Morrisonville Wi

Connie Blau, Waunakee Wi

Kathryn Johnson, Austin TX

Ralph Jesse, Lodi Wi

Deb Twigg, Waverly NY

Cynthia Foy, Killeen TX

Carol Pickart, vinton iA

Jan Kosek, Maitowoc Wi

Robert Mitchell, Milwaukee Wi

Connie vasquez, Machesney iL

Rae Marilyn Booth, San Jose CA

Kay Oppliger, Oshtemo Mi

Lauren and edward Seufzer, Baraboo Wi

Doug Miller, Santa Clarita CA

Bonnie Holmer, vicksburg Mi

Jackie eckhardt, San Antonio TX

Bob Foote, Baraboo Wi

Joan Kaul, Baraboo Wi

Christmas In A Country School Remembrances of Prairie View School— Westfield Township

by Carol Myers

The annual Christmas Program was one of the highlights of the year in our one-room country school during the 1940's.

It was special because in the first place preparing for this event was a break from our routine studies. Oh sure, we were extremely nervous about performing before all those people, and we'd get disgusted and angry when we couldn't memorize our recitations or parts in a play. But it was the social event of the year for parents, relatives and neighbors without school age children. how we found all the time to practice and still keep up with our schoolwork is amazing. Some of that concentration ended about a week before the program. It was then that some of the men of the district (probably the school board) would come to set up the stage.

The planks for the stage were stored in a shed at a neighboring farm. When set up it was about a foot high and covered most of the front of the classroom. Some of us would walk carefully on it because the planks were so wiggly. Of course there were also kids who tried to shake the stage as much as possible.

A heavy wire was strung across the room on which was placed a heavy homemade, coarsely woven brown curtain. For those of us who enjoyed acting and singing, our curtains and stage represented a real stage located in a large city and of course we were the stars. During the program, there was always lots of prompting by the teacher, which came from behind one end of a big side curtain. More than once some of the kids would come down with a case of stage fright.

After the program it was time for Santa to make his appearance and distribute gifts. These gifts were from the exchange of names among all the pupils. At first we were allowed to spend no more than 25 cents, but as the years went by it had to be raised to $1 or less. I am sure most girls hated getting a boy's name and vice versa. We were to keep our drawn name a secret until the night of the program but somehow it usually slipped out beforehand.

My mom would often suggest that I get a gift, which was “practical and useful." We generally would

buy pencils, tablets or maybe a puzzle if we were extravagant.

I don't know if all teachers could afford to give gifts to all their pupils every year, but I was fortunate to have one who did. Sometimes the gifts were just small remembrances such as a comb or a little note pad. Other times it might be a nice book to read. No matter what the gift, it was one that was highly anticipated and treasured for a long time afterwards.

There were always lots of secrets and whispering about the teacher's gift. Usually the oldest child would be designated to collect a small sum of money from each child and buy a very special gift for the teacher. Often times the teacher would get a hug from Santa when he presented her with the gift, causing many giggles among the pupils.

The evening was planned to end early but by the time we all went home in our cold cars and settled down to sleep it was late enough to leave most children very tired for school the next day.

Santa visits Sunny Hill School, Greenfield Township, in 1959.

Society Receives 1932 Model B Ford Truck

In early november the Sauk County Historical Society received one of its largest artifacts ever when the restored delivery truck for the altpeter family’s Baraboo Bottling Works was donated to the Society. Following years of engine and bodywork on the historic 4-cylinder 1932 Model B Ford truck, owner Jerome Thiessen has presented the truck along with several fascinating accessories for future display at the Sauk County History Center.

Beginning his business ventures in 1897, the high profile Oscar altpeter was mostly associated with the bottling business, locating his plant on Baraboo’s Maple Street. Oscar’s son, John, was very active in this venture as years went on, making many deliveries around Wisconsin, especially in this Model B with the commercial box on the back. Their signature product was ginger ale, though Johnny delivered everything from freight to liquor to US Mail. When any fender-bender occurred, it was usually Thiessen who banged out the dents again and again. Johnny knew Jerome should eventually own the truck because he would appreciate its history; similarly, Thiessen has provided it to the Society for future generations to see.

In 1963, about one year after Johnny’s death and with the bottling business closed, Thiessen happily accepted the 1932 Model B. restoration was sporadic until about 1983, when the engine was rebuilt, followed by the truck body still smarting from loading dock accidents.

By Orris Smith

The beautiful blue truck has been to many shows, was in the very first Baraboo Circus Parade, and promptly returned for the 2004 parade when that event was repeated in downtown Baraboo. a museum display will eventually be set up at the new Sauk County History Center. It is expected to include specially designed stenciled crates, a syrup mixing tub, altpeter signage from the altpeter family, and other related artifacts that show the significant contribution to the county’s brewery and bottling history.

Jerome Thiessen, right, donates his Model B Ford truck to the SCHS. Society President, Paul Wolter, center and Executive Director, Orris Smith, left, accept the gift.

new windows installed at Sauk County History Center

JUST in time for winter, new windows were installed at the Sauk County History Center making a dramatic change in the building’s appearance. The historic Island Woolen Mill office building has now turned 90 and is returning to its original look. With the help of a gift from an anonymous donor, eagle Carpentry of Sauk City was contracted to install the historically correct windows, which the Society purchased early in 2007 at cost from Hartje lumber in laValle. The new windows have brought the building back to life and mark a dramatic point in the building’s restoration. remaining work on the exterior will include restoring the front steps and front door, new doors on the rear of the building and new sidewalks. Interior work will begin in the spring as fund raising allows with the biggest hurdle being new heating, cooling and ventilating systems that will cost approximately $60,000. To date $169,892.00 has been given to the project with an additional $50,500.00 pledged for coming years. The Society would like to thank all of the volunteers and donors who have contributed their time, talent or resources to the building as it continues to be transformed into the Sauk County History Center.

History Center donors

(Through 12/31/07)

PillaR oF

PRogReSS owneR

robert Dewel

Pedro Kuczynski & nancy lange *

HiSToRy CenTeR

BeneFaCToR

Dick & Jane Dana *

Baraboo national Bank*

Claude & STaRk aSSoCiaTe

Virgil & edith Hartje

eugene & Mona larsen *

Helen Saloutos *

Bill Schuette

Joseph & lou ann Ward

Melanie & karl Burgi

iSland woolen

Mill FRiend

Merlin Zitzner

Bob and rosa Fleming

Paul young

Philip & nancy altpeter, westminster, Colorado

glen & Mary Schultz

SeCond CenTuRy SPonSoR

Judith ashford

Gilbert & Gail Bird

lawrence & Patricia Bittermann

Janet & ronald Brandt

Dean & Judy Brice

Jerry & Patricia Bullard

John & ann Burton

Jerry & Marynel Corton

russell & Pearl Douglas

John & elizabeth Dutton

Joan Fordham

russell & anita Hantzsch

Bryant Hazard

lawrence & lola Huber

Jerrald & alice Kindschi

arthur & Frances Koenig

alonna Pointon

alice Popp & Gladys Proctor

Catherine rinkob

David Saloutos

William & Marian Schreiber

Kathryn Steckelberg

eugene Suchomel

neil & lucille Thompson

Bev Vaillancourt

Paul Wolter

David and Marcia Swanson

Frederick rochacewicz

lyle and Marge Getschman

Jim and Marilyn Karch

Burt Wright

John & elizabeth Davenport

WI energy Corporation Foundation

garry and gale Bahe

keri olson & larry McCoy

Judy Spring

dr. & Mrs. Robert g yeck, Silver Spring, Maryland

Judy & Paul washam

gary Bahe, Merrimac

ConTRiBuToR

Patrick & Beverly Cabbage

Wayne Hatz

James & Sarah Poker

Marlene Meyer

ruth T Woods

William roberts

arnita ready

Jeanette Beard

Kathryn O. Johnson

Dan Dee

Rachel larson

Joan Macarthur

* Pledge

Bold names are new since our last newsletter

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

President’s Report

Baraboo national Bank Pledges

$10,000

to History Center

THe Baraboo national Bank, under the direction of Chairman and CeO, Merlin Zitzner, has pledged $10,000 to the Pillars of Progress Fundraising Campaign for the restoration of the Sauk County History Center. The funds, which will be given over the next three years, will help see the building to completion. The Baraboo national Bank and the Sauk County Historical Society are two of the oldest institutions in Sauk County and share unique connections not the least of which is the Van Orden Mansion, once home to two of the bank’s former presidents, Jacob and lucas Schuyler Van Orden. The new Sauk County History Center, once the headquarters of the Island Woolen Mill, also shares a connection, as the bank was once the repository for all of the mill’s profits. The Board of Directors of the Sauk County Historical Society would like to thank the Baraboo national Bank and Mr. Zitzner for their ongoing support of the Society and its projects.

aS time marches on and another year passes it’s hard to believe that all the buzz about the millennium is already eight years old. That means today’s second graders were born after all the hubbub about y2K, an acronym which will certainly be included in their history books. The Sauk County Historical Society has come a long way since then and as I glanced back at some of our newsletters from the late 20th century I was reminded that the Society would not be where it is today without the generous bequests from the estates of John and Murrel lange and esther Gray. Their generosity allowed the Society to flourish. Soon after their generous gifts were received the Society was able to hire its first full-time director and install heating and cooling in the Van Orden Mansion, which allowed the operations of the Society to continue year round. a host of other capital projects were also implemented at the museum. Their gifts also positioned the Society to think about future expansion. In the more recent past the gift of the reul house to the Society by Dr. Scott Pauley allowed the Society some options in considering that expansion. While the building was eventually sold to historically sympathetic owners it provided the flexibility the Society needed to consider developing another building even better suited to the needs of the Society. Once the Island Woolen Mill building was acquired new supporters have come forward to see the dream brought to reality. I would like to thank everyone who has helped fund the restoration of the Island Woolen Mill building. It is such a thrill to drive by the building and see it standing tall again with bright new windows and prospects for the future. although we have a fair way to go before we move in, the start has been more than encouraging and I hope by this time next year we can look back at another great year for the Sauk County Historical Society. Thank you for your support! — Paul

Wolter

Old Sauk Trails • Jan./Feb. 2008

The Sauk County Historical Society publishes Old Sauk Trails six times each year.

editor: Bill Schuette • Production: Bananaboat ad/Grfx

The Sauk County Historical Society and Museum 531 Fourth ave. • PO Box 651 • Baraboo, WI 53913

Open Tuesday-Saturday 12-5 pm year-round

(608) 356.1001 • history@saukcounty.com

www.saukcounty.com

(608) 356-1001

Merlin Zitzner, right, presents a check to Society President, Paul Wolter.

new Publication available

a neW publication by Joe Ward chronicles the history of the downtown and south side Baraboo commercial districts. The History of the Commercial & retail Districts is a comprehensive, ten-year project by the author that contains information on the downtown and south side businesses and buildings of Baraboo and the persons who owned them.

Ward writes in his preface, “To turn back the pages of local history is indeed an interesting feat. It takes us to a small village, a country town of plank sidewalks, or no walks, muddy or dusty streets, no public lighting, water drawn from the town pump and carried home in a wooden bucket, a family cow and the family pig pastured on the town commons, precious letters and papers brought in for weary miles by slow horse or slower ox teams, often in lumber wagons and other primitive living conditions with which our ancestors were familiar. not alone were these conditions common to the times, but they were so universal that our good people seldom complained or rebelled at the old fashioned life these external circumstances imposed.”

another early historian, Charles Wing, recalls the early days in Baraboo, “There was a great deal of rain that summer (1885) and the street in front of the house was a mud hole with hogs wallowing in it. Women had

to gather their skirts close to keep from rubbing on the dirty hogs. a plank or two would serve as a sidewalk. each store had its own style of sidewalk outside the store. The eastern half of the block at that time was covered with young oaks.”

Baraboo, History of the Commercial & retail Districts is a two-volume set, hard cover, containing over 900 pages and hundreds of vintage photographs. also included is an index of over 8,200 names and businesses. It is truly a labor of love by Ward. The book is in its second printing. The cost for the two-volume set is $160.00. To purchase a copy, call Joe Ward at 608-3562102, or write him at 354 Inverness Terrace Ct., Baraboo, WI 53913. Ward has also graciously provided a copy of the volumes for researchers at the Sauk County Historical Museum.

Help needed

I am looking for someone to assume my place in the continuance of keeping Baraboo’s history. I would prefer someone who is familiar with MS Word, excel and Photo editing and Transferring. Most of the work is done, all one has to do now is keep up with changes within the city and make corrections as needed. — Joe Ward

“a Man Called Baraboo”—author lecture

Thursday, January 31 at 6:30 p.m., Sauk County Historical Museum

DID you ever wonder where Baraboo got its unique name? This mystery has fascinated local historian and author, Mark Tully, for nearly two decades and led him on an interesting journey to discover the truth. Though the topic has generated many theories for nearly 150 years Tully’s in depth research and analysis has resulted in a new book entitled, “a Man Called Baraboo.” The book covers the fur trade era in Wisconsin and how a nearly obscure French-Canadian voyageur wound up having his name associated with the river and ultimately the city of Baraboo. Tully will be giving a presentation about the book at the Sauk County Historical Museum on Thursday, January 31 at 6:30 p.m. His talk will consist of a short history on the fur trade era in Wisconsin,

1650-1850, which will include a display of several original fur-trade era artifacts from his personal collection and from the Society. He will be in peri od dress and demonstrate a few basic voyageur skills. He will then discuss his book, “a Man Called Baraboo”, and answer questions. The public is invited to attend this interesting evening and discover who was the man called “Baraboo.”

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings. Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Raymond James Financial Services

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913

608.356.7449

You first.

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we Care Program

The Sauk County Historical Society participates in the Pick ‘n Save “We Care” program. The Society’s number is: 700500. When registering for a Pick n’ Save aDVanTaGe PlUS CarD, please support the Society through this matching gift program.

Christmas open House enjoyed by Hundreds

OVer 650 guests enjoyed the Society’s eighth annual Victorian Christmas Open House on December 8th. even before the event officially opened at noon guests were stopping by the Van Orden mansion to enjoy the holiday atmosphere created by the decorations throughout the museum. Twelve Christmas trees donated by Jeff Sorg in honor of his mother, Carol, were decorated by area businesses and organizations including amber Moon, Crazy Daisy, King louie’s Java Stop, the Village Booksmith, Bekah Kate’s and DreaMS and by individuals including lindy and Mona larsen, Dave Saloutos and Paul Wolter. live music throughout the day from over two dozen musicians added to the ambience as guests enjoyed holiday treats in the dining room, which was decorated with a gingerbread replica of the historic Green residence in reedsburg. Many guests enjoyed horse-drawn carriage rides from 2- 4 p.m. as a quaint jingle-bell filled trip around the block added to the holiday mood. Over thirty volunteers helped on the day of the open house and over forty people donated holiday treats to make the event a success for the hundreds of visitors. Other volunteers and businesses donated items for the Society’s annual Christmas gift raffle, which many guests participated in. The Society would like to thank everyone who helped make this year’s Victorian Christmas Open House another success and thank those who attended.

Top: Carolers helped entertain guests as they arrived. They are, left to right, Peter Etzweiler, Michael Etzweiler, Elise Etzweiler and Rachel Larson.

Above: This year’s gingerbread house was modeled on the Lavina Green residence at 325 Third St., Reedsburg. Society volunteers, under the architectural guidance of Paul Wolter, created the replica. Althen’s Elite Bakery in Baraboo, donated the construction site and master baker, Kay Salecker, was a sub contractor.

Society Float wins

First Place

THe Sauk County Historical Society once again won first place in the Holly Jolly light Parade in downtown Baraboo on november 17th. The Society’s float, which featured historic toys of yesteryear, included a motorized rocking horse, wind-up train with smoke, alphabet blocks and new this year, a spinning top. With the generous support of Senger lumber and elite Catering the Society was once again able to contribute to the holiday spirit in what has become an annual Baraboo tradition.

won’t you be my Valentine?

eVery February 14th the thoughts of couples turn to the centuries old custom of sending a valentine to the one they love.

The custom of sending these messages of love can be traced back to the 13th century, when a young Frenchman, Charles, Duke of Orleans, was imprisoned in the Tower of london in 1415. He wanted to show his love for his wife and sent several poems to her in France. later, during the 15th century, one valentine depicted cupid shooting an arrow into the heart of a knight while his ladylove looked on.

The first commercial valentines appeared around 1800 in england, and were not very ornate. a half-century later, they were transformed into works of art with the use of satin, ribbons and lace. Included were delicate verses along with pictures of turtledoves, bows and arrows, cupids and bleeding hearts.

During the Gay nineties, valentine cards took on a more garish look, being festooned with spun glass, mother-of-pearl, imitation jewels and silk fringes.

a Mount Holyoke college student, Miss esther Howland, created the first truly american valentines. Up until that time most cards were imported from england. around 1830 she used imported lace and fine papers to create her cards, eventually employing several assistants. Her entrepreneurship brought in a hundred thousand dollars annually—over a 1.5 million in today’s dollars!

elderene (Halvensleben) Hasz taught at Hay Creek School from 1952-55. She recalled the Valentine's Day celebrations in a rural school.

“We would take a big box and decorate it with white paper and lots of Valentines. It had a slot in the top and everyone would put his or her Valentines in the

By Bill Schuette

box. On Valentine's Day it would be opened and they'd be passed out. I think back then, everybody gave a Valentine just to their favorite friends, possibly because people didn't have a lot of money. But everybody would get a Valentine, no one was left out.”

Today, valentine cards are manufactured in huge quantities, and second only to Christmas cards in numbers sent.

The Sauk County Historical Society has several dozen vintage valentine cards, some of which are currently on display at the museum.

January/February 2008

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651 531 Fourth avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

new & Renewed Members

THank you To THeSe MeMBeRS wHo

HaVe Renewed SinCe ouR laST newSleTTeR

SPOnSOr

Paul and Janet Fritsch, Baraboo WI

Joan litscher, Baraboo WI

Bill and alice Schellenberger, Baraboo WI

Francis & Joan Costerisan, Hendersonville nC

Bev and robert Vaillancourt, laValle WI

Dean and Marian Burmester, laValle WI

Patricia Baade, Baraboo WI

George and Kyoko archibald, Baraboo WI

ronald Morrick, Tampa Fl

FrIenD

elizabeth Dutton, Boalsburg Pa

Mike and Sandi Holt, Baraboo WI

Pete Filus, Baraboo WI

Wayne and Marty Johansen, Baraboo WI

Derek and Katie Cowan, Baraboo WI

FaMIly

David and Jeanne Fuhs, Baraboo WI

Walter & Debra Klaetsch, north Freedom WI

erick and audrey Messner, Baraboo WI

ruth Pischke, Baraboo WI

Jerry and laDonna lindquist, Verona WI

lawrence & Shirley Kowalke, Fort Myers Fl

Phyllis and Wayne Dearborn, Plain WI

Bill & Deb Johnsen, Baraboo WI

Jim & nancy Higgins, Baraboo WI

Mary and Millie Canepa, Baraboo WI

Jerald and Zita Schultz, Baraboo WI

Jerry and Carol Stich, Baraboo WI

David and Charlotte Taylor, Baraboo WI

Mike and angie Haller, Baraboo WI

Phillip and lynda White, Wis Dells WI

Bill and laurie Dummer, Baraboo WI

Chuck and norma Sophie, Baraboo WI

InDIVIDUal

William arndt, lexington Ky

Barbara larsen, Sister Bay WI

Catherine rinkob, Hayward WI

Miriam Thompson, Baraboo WI

Paul young, Baraboo WI

Kathy laMasney, Baraboo WI

Bob Kieffer Jr, Baraboo WI

Theodore Shepard, Spokane Valley Wa

The Reedsburg Woolen mill began operation in 1879 and derived its power from the Baraboo River. It had ten looms on the second floor and six carding machines on the third floor. Spinning and twisting was done on the fourth floor with finishing and packing assigned to the first floor. The firm had forty employees at the time. Years later Sears and Montgomery Wards purchased the woolen products and during World War II the mill made blankets for the US Army. In 1967 the woolen mill declared bankruptcy with the loss of 200 jobs and it burned down a year later.

March/April 2008

William Canfield Day, April 8

The Sauk CounTy hiSToriCal SoCieTy will celebrate the eighth annual William h. Canfield Day on the eve of the 189th birthday of Sauk County's first historian. The meeting will take place at the Sauk County historical Museum on Tuesday, april 8 at 7 p.m. This year's program will focus on Canfield's children to coincide with our theme for 2008, Growing up in Sauk County. When William Canfield and his wife settled on Skillet Creek just southwest of Baraboo in 1842 they were already expecting their first child. The Canfield children were born into the pioneer lifestyle and grew up learning pioneer methods of survival but also saw the rapid growth of communities and neighborhoods around them. Those that survived witnessed one of the

greatest eras of transformation in uS history.

During the evening the Society will also present its annual William h. Canfield history award to honor the work of a present day local historian who displays the same passion for history as Canfield. Society members are asked to nominate a local historian for the award by filling out the nomination form inside this issue (see page 7). The deadline for nominations is april 5. Birthday cake and refreshments will round out the evening. The public is invited to attend. Previous recipients of the Canfield award include: erhart Mueller, kenneth lange, Phyllis Dearborn, Dr. Bob Dewel, Carol Sorg and Joe Ward.

Gene and Marge Baraboo visit Baraboo

The Sauk County historical Society hosted Gene and Marge Baraboo at a special event on January 31 at the Van orden mansion. The occasion was a talk by local author and historian, Mark Tully, who wrote the book A Man Called Baraboo, The Life and Times of an 18th-century Voyageur. The Baraboo family, from rothschild, Wi, were special guests of the Society, having been invited through the efforts of local historian, Bob Dewel. Tully, dressed as an 18th-century voyageur, held the rapt attention of an audience of more than 80 people who came to learn where the Baraboo river got its name. according to Tully’s research, Gene and Marge are direct descendants of Gabriel Barbeau, who was the older brother of François Barbeau, a French Canadian fur trader who had a trading post in the area in the mid-1700s. Through the centuries, the family name was anglicized to Baraboo, and the name was applied to the river, city and picturesque bluffs surrounding them. Tully also presented the Baraboo’s with a large color illustration of their ancestor that he had done for his book.

History Center Work to Continue in spring

Work on the new Sauk County history Center this winter has concentrated largely on planning for the spring and summer construction season. The new windows were installed last november just in time for one of the worst winters on record. This spring work will commence on restoring the front stairs to the building and installation of new sidewalks. The City of Baraboo has approved a donation of $4,500 for this part of the project. The front door to the building will also be restored to its original look with the help of the original blueprints and historic photos. interior demolition work and restoration work will continue with volunteer help as preparations are made for installation of new heating, cooling and ventilation systems. Fund raising continues for this crucial part of the project with bidding indicating that this will be a $50,000 project. The Society has been pleased to receive a donation of $5,000 from the Village of lake Delton which recognizes the Society’s important work in the county. half of this donation will be used for the history center. other donations have insured that work will begin this spring to continue the transformation of the historic island Woolen Mill office building into the Sauk County history Center.

History Center Donors

(through 3/15/08)

PillAr of ProGress oWner

robert Dewel

Pedro kuczynski & nancy lange *

History Center

BenefACtor

Dick & Jane Dana *

Baraboo national Bank*

ClAuDe & stArk

AssoCiAte

Virgil & edith hartje

eugene & Mona larsen *

helen Saloutos *

Bill Schuette

Joseph & lou ann Ward

Melanie & karl Burgi

City of Baraboo

Village of lake Delton

islAnD Woolen

Mill frienD

Merlin Zitzner

Bob and rosa Fleming

Paul young

Philip & nancy altpeter, Westminster, Colorado

Glen & Mary Schultz

Joan litscher

seConD Century sPonsor

Judith ashford

Gilbert & Gail Bird

lawrence & Patricia Bittermann

Janet & ronald Brandt

Dean & Judy Brice

Jerry & Patricia Bullard

John & ann Burton

Jerry & Marynel Corton

russell & Pearl Douglas

John & elizabeth Dutton

Joan Fordham

russell & anita hantzsch

Bryant hazard

lawrence & lola huber

Jerrald & alice kindschi

arthur & Frances koenig

alonna Pointon

alice Popp & Gladys Proctor

Catherine rinkob

David Saloutos

William & Marian Schreiber

kathryn Steckelberg

eugene Suchomel

neil & lucille Thompson

Bev Vaillancourt

Paul Wolter

David and Marcia Swanson

Frederick rochacewicz

lyle and Marge Getschman

Jim and Marilyn karch

Burt Wright

John & elizabeth Davenport

Wi energy Corporation Foundation

Garry and Gale Bahe

keri olson & larry McCoy

Judy Spring

Dr. & Mrs. robert G. yeck, Silver Spring, Maryland

Judy & Paul Washam

Gary Bahe, Merrimac

David & tana Holmblad

tom kriegl

ralph & Pam krainik

town of Delton

ContriButor

Patrick & Beverly Cabbage

Wayne hatz

James & Sarah Poker

Marlene Meyer

ruth T Woods

William roberts

arnita ready

Jeanette Beard

kathryn o. Johnson

Dan Dee

rachel larson

Joan Macarthur

* Pledge

Bold names are new since our last newsletter

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

50 [years] x “y” [sauk County residents During those years] x “Z” [infinite number of Personal Histories and Historic themes] = A 50 sq. ft. exhibit????

By Destinee Swanson, Curator

The newest exhibit at the Sauk County historical Museum, “Through a Child’s eyes” Growing up in Sauk County, 1870-1920,” is a super-condensed look at a pivotal halfcentury of local history. it attempts to impart to the visitor (in an interesting, logical, and concise manner) fifty years of history as experienced by the county’s youngest residents.

a very tall order indeed.

like any historical topic, this theme has unlimited research potential and infinite educational merit, in combination with decidedly limited and definite restrictions on available physical space and production time.

So, how does one decide what voices should be heard? Which personal stories should be shared? What basic historical information should be included? as curator of collections and exhibits, these are all issues that i must take into consideration when planning a new display.

a first logical step in exhibit planning at a museum is to take an assessment of what related material and objects your collection holds; what stories can you sufficiently tell with what you have on hand? Public survey after public survey reiterates that genuine artifacts remain our most powerful and tangible connection to the past. Words are not enough; people want to see the STuFF.

a brief survey of the Society’s collections revealed that although we are definitely slim in child-related artifacts (especially those dating from the nineteenth century and earlier), those we do have are fairly broad in scope. From detailed doll buggies, to a variety of exquisitely made christening gowns, to a country-school desk, i was excited by the potential our collections held.

From here, i had to then decide what themes to cover. Visitors to the “Through a Child’s eyes exhibit” will encounter my interpretation of a “typical” childhood in Sauk County. Three major components, representing the most important aspects of childhood, are covered: school, work, and play. The exhibit showcases rare and irreplaceable artifacts underpinned by a framework of historical research—all of this further augmented by the addition of fascinating personal vignettes and historic photographs of Sauk County residents.

Because of Sauk County’s rural beginnings, a

focus is given to the one-room country school experience. Museum guests here have the opportunity to view a reconstruction of such a classroom, complete with a wellworn wooden desk, dinner pail, slate, and even the everpresent George Washington portrait. another portion of the exhibit highlights the ways in which work and play overlap. Both the young and the young at heart will enjoy the toys and other artifacts here displayed, including a set of lead soldiers, an early nineteenth century sampler, and building blocks used by a young louis Claude. as the title of this article suggests, the field of mathematics is woefully inapplicable to the largely theoretical and creative world of museum education and research. like any other exhibit, the success of “Through a Child’s eyes must be measured in some other way—and we at the Society would love nothing more than to have you visit and critique our latest exhibit endeavor.

school tours

The Sauk County historical Society gives museum tours to students as part of its ongoing educational program. november found the Van orden Mansion hosting three second grade classes from the Sauk-Prairie school district. The youth enjoyed learning about games from decades past, touring all the historic rooms, and reviewing new words included in the day’s tours provided by Museum staff. This year, the Society also plans to travel to schools whose budget constraints do not include the cost of bus transportation to the museum.

Those wishing to support this great cause of bringing students to our museum may send donations to SChS, P.o. Box 651, Baraboo, Wi 53913

Archaeology road show

in an area as rich in prehistoric artifacts as Sauk County, any farmer tilling a field or homebuilder digging up an empty lot can become an amateur artifact collector.

if you’ve discovered arrowheads, spear points, stone tools or other artifacts, now is your chance to have a professional archaeologist identify your finds. on Saturday, May 3, the University of Wisconsin-Baraboo/ Sauk County will host an artifact identification Day on campus.

The event coincides with Wisconsin archaeology Month and will bring archaeologists and collections from uW-la Crosse and uW-Madison, as well as local artifacts from the Sauk County historical Society collection.

The event will take place in the cafeteria in the lange Center on campus from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. it is free and open to the public.

“it’s an opportunity for the professional archaeologists to help people understand what they have in their collections,” said robert “ernie” Boszhardt of the Mississippi Valley archaeology Center. “From the archaeologist’s standpoint, it’s an opportunity for us to get a better idea of what was happening from 12,000 to 350 years ago in the Baraboo area.”

other archaeologists on hand to present collections and identify artifacts will include UW-Baraboo/ Sauk County Dean Dr. Thomas Pleger; Danielle Benden, academic curator at the uW-Madison Department of anthropology; and George Christiansen of the Great lakes archaeological research Center.

Though amateur collectors are welcome to bring in artifacts for identification, the archaeologists will not appraise the value of artifacts or allow collectors to buy

or sell artifacts at the show. For more information on this event, or on the Wisconsin archaeology (anT 302) course Pleger will teach at the UW-Baraboo/Sauk County this summer, visit the campus website at www.baraboo.uwc.edu.

Archaeology Artifact identification Day saturday, May 3. free and open to the public, with professional archaeologists on hand to identify your collections.

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings. Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Raymond James Financial Services

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913

608.356.7449

You first.

Securities are offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member NASD/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal

#4718 m

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  

 

We Care Program

The Sauk County historical Society receives matching gift awards when you participate in “Pierce’s Market Card” program. if you own or get a new “Market Card,” please connect it to the Sauk County historical Society by designating number 700500.

old Picture Postcards Worth More than 1,000 Words

(North Freedom, Wisconsin) — The saying goes “a picture is worth a thousand words.” if that’s true, then the old-time photos collected by Mid-Continent railway Museum at north Freedom, Wisconsin speak volumes.

The museum has accumulated photographic images of railroading for most of its nearly fifty-year existence. For the last forty of those years, many have appeared in the museum’s quarterly magazine railway Gazette and annual calendars. But now, the museum is embracing modern technology to bring the images to the masses. a new online database of railroad-themed postcards is being unveiled on the museum’s website.

The genesis of the effort is a searchable database of picture postcards from the era of Golden age railroading that is the museum’s main focus. The years span from 1880 to 1916. “’r photo’ postcards are a perfect source for railroad photographs from the tail end of this era,” observes Paul Swanson, the museum’s co-webmaster.

While postcard collecting has been around as long as the postcards themselves, Swanson has been collect ing them for just a few years. “i have narrowed my collecting to images that relate to Mid-Continent’s collection and focus,” he says. “Most have been found on ebay, which can become an expen sive hobby!”

as the cards streamed in, Swanson scanned them into his computer and came to a conclusion that they’d best be shared with the world via the museum’s website. Thus the searchable database was born. Museum member Scott Monsma of Madison assisted with writing code for the database.

But this was not enough. 77 postcards were chosen to appear in a special issue of the museum’s quarterly publication railway Gazette. Swanson personally selected the cards and wrote a brief history on the evolution of the photo postcard. Copies are being sold by the museum for $4.95 each, plus postage, and may be ordered from MidContinent’s office or online at the museum’s web store at: www.midcontinent.org

The museum’s collections will also appear on the website over time. Several inventories are already posted, and photos will be available as well. For those who wish to visit the archives in person for research purposes, the archives and library are generally open on Saturdays, but it is recommended that an appointment be made first.

The Mid-Continent railway historical Society, inc. is a private, not-for-profit corporation founded in 1959 to preserve the Golden age of railroad history for the upper Midwest. Membership is open to anyone interested in supporting our mission.

William H. Canfield History Award nomination

Deadline: april 5, 2008. Submit to: Sauk County historical Society Po Box 651 Baraboo, Wi 53913

suBMitter’s nAMe ________________________________________________________________ Telephone # ______________________

address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City/State/ZIP ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

email address _______________________________________________________________________________________________________

noMinee’s nAMe _________________________________________________________________ Telephone # _____________________

address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City/State/ZIP ________________________________________________________________________________________________________

email address _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ on a separate piece of paper, please complete the following paragraph in 500 words or less: I nominate________, who, like William H. Canfield, shows a passion for local history as shown by his/her…

educational outreach is Historic

By orris Smith, executive Director

aT work, you probably know that other employees do not have a good grasp for all the daily duties you perform unless they’ve just recently walked in your shoes. an area like that at the Sauk County historical Society is our community outreach effort.

Since this fiscal year started in September, i’ve had the pleasure to visit residents at the Sauk County health Care Center, the reedsburg Senior life Center, Meadow ridge assisted living in Baraboo, with St. Clare Meadows planned for next month. While i share facts, listeners with favorite memories to share join me in the stories. This is always a great exchange, and enjoyable for everybody. activity directors tell me that the stories continue on into the evening and the days following the interaction.

our Society also provides lecture series, especially in the cold weather months. We have more programs in the next few weeks, and a past one provided a standing-room only crowd. Some guests traveled a hundred miles to attend, and said they wouldn’t have missed sharing some life experiences. everyone there learned something and shared smiles doing so.

School students are always invited to the Van orden Museum, with one memory being a november busload of second-graders from Sauk-Prairie. Museum staff took them away from computer games and TV with oldfashioned outside games that were sometimes “new” to them. it was a great way to ensure they immediately enjoyed the visit plus let off some energy before visiting

artifacts inside. each staff tour guide had special displays to highlight, and handpicked words and facts to focus on.

With school budgets tighter than ever, many schools struggle to afford the bus cost to the museum. We are currently looking for business sponsors to absorb that cost. We’re also developing a fun, new program to take to the schools. Called SCi for Sauk County investigators, it should intrigue fourth-grade students as they utilize duplicated old documents, maps, diaries, and newspapers to answer county and state history questions. We have been fortunate enough to enlist the help of a couple of retired elementary school teachers to help our curator with development, and current teachers we’ve contacted seem genuinely excited about the prospects of such a good program at no cost to them. Fortunately, we’ve been aided by member contributions and local grant dollars, and hope to secure additional funds in the future.

Staff and volunteers also visit the schools with artifacts, repeatedly speak to community service groups and businesses, report to the newspapers, and interview on radio as part of our outreach. if you know of someone who would like such a service, please call the museum (356-1001) between noon and 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. a lot happens every week at the Society, and we’d be happy to consider sharing our activities with your group.

March/April 2008 the sauk County Historical society

P.o. Box 651 531 Fourth avenue

Baraboo, Wi 53913

new & renewed Members

tHAnk you to tHese MeMBers WHo HAVe reneWeD sinCe our lAst neWsletter

PaTron

Mona and Gene larsen, Baraboo Wi

ethan and kari Carlson, Baraboo Wi

John and Judy Bennin, Baraboo Wi

SPonSor

Michael and Barbara Goc, Freindship Wi

Tom kriegl, Baraboo Wi

William Schuette, reedsburg Wi

Joe and lou ann Ward, Baraboo Wi

Paul Wolter, Baraboo Wi

Gary haas, Milwaukee Wi

Susan Williams, Waukesha Wi

David and Tana holmblad, Merrimac Wi

Walter and yvonne Smith, Baraboo Wi

Gene and Jan Suchomel, reedsburg Wi

John and Donna Taapken, north Freedom Wi

Gene Putz, Gorham Me

William Schreiber Jr, Baraboo Wi

David kuter, Madison Wi

FrienD

Charles and Jeanne Marking, Baraboo Wi

herb Messer, Baraboo Wi

Paul and aural umhoefer, Baraboo Wi

Merlin and Jenele Zitzner, Baraboo Wi

Burt Wright, los angeles Ca

Jerry and Jeanette Jessop, laValle Wi

David Saloutos, Baraboo Wi

Judy ashford, Merrimac Wi

William Johnson, Dallas TX

Marie kolberg, Madison Wi

Denise and Dave Statz, Baraboo Wi

William and Marian Schreiber, Baraboo Wi

FaMily

keith and Virginia anderson, Baraboo Wi

lawrence and Patricia Bittermann, Batavia il

Donald and Wilma Cook, emporia kS

albert and nita Dippel, Baraboo Wi

Bob and Carolyn Doepke, Baraboo Wi

lyle and Marge Getschman, Baraboo Wi

David and elsie Gilmore, Baraboo Wi

Charles and Donna Green, Baraboo Wi

richard and linda Jenks, Baraboo Wi

allan & nancy Schmid, Baraboo Wi

Mark and karen Tully, Baraboo Wi

Timothy and katherine nolden, Baraboo Wi

Brett & Susan Topham, Baraboo Wi

Steve and nyree larson, Baraboo Wi

albert and allegra Zick, north Freedom Wi

Mike and Mary Schell, Baraboo Wi

Bob and Darlene hill, Baraboo Wi

karen and howard Diehl, Spring Green Wi

Charles and roberta Mayer, lyndon Station Wi

Don and Verna Shook, Baraboo Wi

Wayne Pivotto, Montello Wi

Bill and amy Schertz, Baraboo Wi

Dennis and Christina Bergmann, McFarland Wi

Matt and Joan hart, Gurnee il

Travis & kristina Zick, Baraboo Wi

Mike Sharon & Daniel o'Connell, Baraboo Wi

inDiViDual

Betty Marquardt, Baraboo Wi

Joyce karg, Baraboo Wi

Barbara Vester, los angeles Ca

Sandy kjernes, edgerton Wi

Phyllis Stanten, Baraboo Wi

kathryn Schauf, Baraboo Wi

richard Dipping, reedsburg Wi

Jill livesey, Saline Mi

Beatrice Blau, Sun Prairie Wi

Steve Gall, Madison Wi

Joice Meyer, reedsburg Wi

luanne krohn, reedsburg Wi

Grant hutton, austin TX

Michelle Burton, Baraboo Wi

lindy larsen, Baraboo Wi

Jennifer klett, Menomonee Falls Wi

Barbara Wolfe, Waunakee Wi

ellen hosig, Baraboo Wi

Joseph Burke, Baraboo Wi

Patricia Michals, Baraboo Wi

allen Schroeder, loganville Wi

Jean Wendt, Baraboo Wi

Jill adami, lodi Wi

Cathy hood, Winfield il

Jeff Culbertson, Baraboo Wi

May/June 2008

Tour of Historic Homes June 21

The 2008 BaraBoo Tour of historic homes will be held on June 21 and will feature six historic homes ranging in style from the Gothic revival to arts and Crafts. Thrivent Financial, Senger Lumber and Don-rick Insurance sponsor the tour this year. The six private homes on the tour include the historic house of Seven Gables, which was built in 1860 in the Gothic revival Style for Baraboo banker, Terrill Thomas. The home of bank president, George Mertens, on Fifth avenue, which was built in 1885, will also be shown along with the historic ott home on Birch Street, which was extensively remodeled in 1928 in the Colonial revival style. also on the tour are the historic Porter home on eighth

Street which was built in 1911 in the emerging Craftsman style and the Witwen house on Second avenue which was designed in the Stick style. rounding out the tour is the Teal home on ridge Street, which was built in the Folk Victorian style. The tour will last from 10 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at a variety of locations after May 21 including the local Chambers of Commerce in Baraboo, reedsburg and Sauk City, the Bank of Prairie du Sac and in downtown Baraboo at the Baraboo National Bank, Vodak TV, Corner Drug and Fan Faire. Tickets are $12 per person before the day of the tour and $15 on June 21.

The historic Witwen house on Second Avenue was built about 1884 in the Stick Style.

History Center reaches fundraising Milestone

WITh a goal of $350,000, the Pillars of Progress fundraising campaign for the Sauk County history Center renovation has surpassed the half way point. To date $185,280.00 has been received towards the ongoing restoration and renovation of the historic Island Woolen Mill building which will continue this summer. Statz restoration, which worked on the exterior masonry of the building last summer, has been retained to restore the front steps of the building. Two new wing walls will be built on either side of the existing steps, which are still partially intact. The wing walls will match the dimensions of the original design and will be built from matching brick and finished with new aggregate concrete caps. Four missing steps will be restored in poured concrete. Plans are also on the drawing board to restore the original front door and side windows to match the original design. an anonymous donor has also agreed to install new sidewalks to the building. With exterior work nearing completion fundraising and renovation efforts are now being concentrated on the interior. Demolition work continues with volunteer help and new supporters are being sought to help fund the renovation of the interior.

History Center donors

Pillar of Progress owner

robert Dewel

Pedro Kuczynski & Nancy Lange *

HisTory CenTer

BenefaCTor

Dick & Jane Dana *

Baraboo National Bank*

Claude & sTark

assoCiaTe

Virgil & edith hartje

eugene & Mona Larsen *

helen SaLoutos *

Bill Schuette

Joseph & Lou ann Ward

Melanie & Karl Burgi

City of Baraboo

Village of Lake Delton*

island woolen

Mill friend

Merlin Zitzner

Bob and rosa Fleming*

Paul Young

Philip & Nancy altpeter, Westminster, Colorado

Glen & Mary Schultz

Joan Litscher

seCond CenTury

sPonsor

Judith ashford

Gilbert & Gail Bird

Lawrence & Patricia Bittermann

Janet & ronald Brandt

Dean & Judy Brice

Jerry & Patricia Bullard

John & ann Burton

Jerry & Marynel Corton

russell & Pearl Douglas

John & elizabeth Dutton

Joan Fordham

russell & anita hantzsch

Bryant hazard

Lawrence & Lola huber

Jerrald & alice Kindschi

arthur & Frances Koenig

alonna Pointon

alice Popp & Gladys Proctor

Catherine rinkob

David SaLoutos

William &

(Through 3/15/08)

Marian Schreiber

Kathryn Steckelberg

eugene Suchomel

Neil & Lucille Thompson

Bev Vaillancourt

Paul Wolter

David and Marcia Swanson*

Frederick rochacewicz

Lyle and Marge Getschman

Jim and Marilyn Karch

Burt Wright

John & elizabeth Davenport

WI energy Corporation Foundation

Garry and Gale Bahe

Keri olson & Larry McCoy

Judy Spring*

Dr. & Mrs. robert G. Yeck, Silver Spring, Maryland*

Judy & Paul Washam

Gary Bahe, Merrimac

David & Tana holmblad

Tom Kriegl

ralph & Pam Krainik

Town of Delton

leona Voll green – Memorial*

david & nijole etzwiler*

ConTriBuTor

Patrick & Beverly Cabbage

Wayne hatz

James & Sarah Poker

Marlene Meyer

ruth T Woods

William roberts*

arnita ready

Jeanette Beard*

Kathryn o. Johnson

Dan Dee rachel Larson

Joan Macarthur

in-kind

Hartje lumber*

* Pledge

Bold names are new since our last newsletter

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

President’s report

By Paul Wolter

aFTer surviving the worst winter on record for southern Wisconsin it’s almost hard to believe that summer is almost upon us with its flurry of scheduled activities. The Society will be out and about as usual this summer with a presence at various events such as old Fashioned Day and the Badger Steam and Gas Show. This summer the Society will also hold its biennial Tour of historic homes on June 21 with another showcase of great historic homes in Baraboo for people to see. Work will also continue on the Sauk County history Center, which saw great progress last year. all of this activity is made possible by our great staff, our wonderful volunteers and by the generous support of our members and partners. I am pleased that local business partners, Senger Lumber and the Don-rick Insurance agency have joined with us to sponsor the 2008 Baraboo Tour of historic homes. Thrivent Financial has also agreed to give a matching grant for tour proceeds which are used to help fund the year round operation of the Society. equally as important over 70 volunteers have stepped forward to help staff the homes during the day of the tour thus ensuring a safe and enjoyable time for everyone. I hope you will join us for the tour and the activities planned for this summer or stop in at the Society’s booth when we are out and about. If you would like to volunteer for a few hours and help out we would love to have you. Please call the staff at the museum at 608-356-1001 for ways you can help out this summer as we fulfill our mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk County history.

in Memory

eaCh year we lose a bit of Sauk County history when we lose friends and members. We are grateful when other people honor their memory through a gift to the Society. Below are those who were remembered by gifts to the society and the generous friends who gave in their honor.

lorna wieglow remembered by robert and Delores Bahr

wayne Hatz remembered by Steven Kerr

leona green remembered by David and Diane Pietenpol

Bea Harding remembered by David and Nijole etzwiler

leo Bisch remembered by Joan Litscher.

reva o’Brien remembered by Jerome P. Mercer, Tim & Kathleen Borota, Joan Ploetz & family, and Faye M. Templin.

The Van Orden kitchen retains its original stove, sink, icebox, and linoleum flooring. One unique feature is the electrical servants call box located in the northwest corner of the room, which enabled the family to summon assistance from nearly any point in the house. It was a unique novelty for the day.

The Sauk County Historical Society recently installed a temporary exhibit at the Spring Green Public Library. Expected to remain up through the beginning of June, this exhibit showcases a rare collection of antique wooden toys along with historical information and reproductions of original advertising memorabilia. Stop by and see the elephant, giraffe, clowns, and other wooden Big Top performers—after nearly one hundred years they’re still stealing the show!

Old Sauk Trails • May/June 2008

new ringling Theatre Video available

a new DVD video highlighting the history and mystery of the al. ringling Theatre has been completed and is now available to the public. The al. ringling Theatre, which opened in 1915, has been described as "america’s Prettiest Playhouse.”

a comprehensive tour is conducted and narrated by Dr. robert Dewel who has been introducing visitors and tourists to the wonders of the al. ringling Theatre for over 17 years.

along with views of the magnificent auditorium the 48-minute video includes a peek into areas of the theatre normally off limits to the public. The theatre has many secrets, and they are revealed by Dr. Dewel as he guides the viewer through what was described as one of the finest movie palaces of its era.

The video has been produced through the cooperative efforts of Bob Dewel, left, and Bill Schuette.

Copies of the DVD are available for $15 at the al. ringling Theatre and at the Sauk County historical

Society, 531 Fourth ave., Baraboo or by contacting Bob Dewel at 356-3791. The DVD can be mailed for an additional $4. all money from the sale of the video will go towards the on-going renovation of the theatre.

A crowd of past and present Sauk County residents and history enthusiasts filled the restored Fair Valley Schoolhouse (now located in the Sauk City Historic Park) to listen to and participate in a public program on local rural school history and preservation. Sponsored jointly by the Sauk County Historical Society and the Sauk City Historic Preservation Committee, “Sauk County School Days: Saving the Stories and Structures of our Past” was held on Thursday, April 24th with more than thirty in attendance, including a former Fair Valley schoolteacher and even a few dedicated alumni! The event was the last of the Society’s four-part winter-spring lecture series, a tradition that the Society plans to carry on next year.

archaeology artifact identification day saturday, May 3. free and open to the public, with professional archaeologists on hand to identify your collections.

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings. Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Raymond James Financial Services

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913

608.356.7449

You first.

Securities are offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member NASD/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal

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   

  

  

 

we Care Program

The Sauk County historical Society receives matching gift awards when you participate in “Pierce’s Market Card” program. If you own or get a new “Market Card,” please connect it to the Sauk County historical Society by designating number 700500.

Museum work for dummies…or why you should Consider Volunteering for Me.

By Destinee Swanson

aS curator, my umbrella of responsibilities technically covers the areas of exhibits, collections, educational programming, and various aspects of public outreach. as a result, I am up to my eyeballs in projects I would LoVe to share with anyone having a little time to spare—and this means YoU! It is often hard to get volunteers to venture into the areas I oversee, largely because they all seem like tasks that must be dealt with on a professional level. While this is true (we must always strive to produce quality work), it does not mean that the volunteer must be a “museum professional”; it simply means they must handle their project (whatever it may be) “professionally.”

For example, “cataloguing” of artifacts sounds pretty complex, right? But it isn’t. To catalogue an artifact basically means measuring, describing, and labeling it. You can do that. and how about “investigating the

artifact identification day

aS part of Wisconsin’s a rchaeology Month, the UW-Baraboo hosted its first artifact identification day recently, and invited Sauk County residents to bring in treasures they’ve found on their property. UW-Baraboo Dean, Thomas Pleger, who holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology/ archaeology, along with other experts, were busy identifying arrowheads, spear points, stone tools, petrified clams and trilobites. he noted that, “This is an excellent opportunity for interested lay people to talk with professional archaeologists about what they have found and how to preserve archaeological resources for future generations.” above right, ho-Chunk Nation member, William Lowe, demonstrates his skill at napping flint arrowheads for a young visitor. The Sauk County historical Society also participated by displaying its collection of ornately arranged arrowheads. Some of the items identified dated back more than 10,000 years. When farmers walked the fields behind teams of horses, artifacts such as arrowheads were much easier to spot than they are today from a tractor high above the ground.

provenance” of an object? Think you can’t do that? Yes you can. To investigate an object’s provenance is simply the process of researching an artifact’s background. You can do that.

research and cataloging are just two examples of a rainbow of volunteer opportunities available here at the Museum. Whatever your interests are—photography, sewing, art history—we can work with you to find a project that will not only help us out, but a project that you will enjoy. once we find that project, a Society staff member will provide the knowledge you need to get going and thereafter supervise and assist you as much as you need…because We NeeD YoU!

Contact us at 608-356-1001 with any questions or to talk further with us about becoming a volunteer. You’re only one phone call away from being a “museum professional”—so what are you waiting for?

Photo by Chloris Lowe Jr.

founders’ day Picnic June 3 Mark Tully receives Canfield award

The 2008 William h. Canfield history award was given to author Mark Tully on april 8 during Canfield Day celebrations. Tully was chosen for his long lasting commitment to historical research and creation of quality historic publications including his latest, A Man Called Baraboo, The Life and Times of an 18th Century Voyageur. The Baraboo book chronicles the life and times of voyageur, Francois Barbeau, whose name became associated with the river and later the city. Tully’s research for the book took several years and took him as far as Montreal in his quest for the truth about a subject that has been speculated on about as long as Baraboo has existed.

The Sauk County historical Society’s Founders’ Day Picnic will be held on June 3 at 6 p.m. at the Badger Steam and Gas Club showground on Sand road. a picnic meal of roast beef and pork sandwiches with barbecue or sweet and sour sauce will be served with all the fixings. Dick Goddard, President of the newly formed Lake States railway historical association, will talk on the association’s mission to collect, expand and disseminate knowledge on the history of railroading from the Western Great Lakes region and its associated economic and social development. The new group is headquartered in Baraboo in the Baraboo arts Building on Water Street, which was once the ringling Brothers winter quarters shop. Members and the public are encouraged to attend. a flyer regarding the picnic was sent to members along with reservation information. If you would like to attend please contact the museum at 356-1001.

society welcomes new Board Member

Thank you eleanor Chiquoine

earLY this year Society Board Member and former curator, eleanor Chiquoine, resigned from her position on the board. on behalf of the Society, the Board of Directors would like to extend its thanks to eleanor for her years of service and enthusiasm. eleanor has been a longtime member of the Society and has served on the Museum and Membership Committees among other things.

The Board of Directors of the Sauk County historical Society is pleased to announce that Ken Weitzel of Spring Green has become the newest board member of the Society, filling the seat of eleanor Chiquoine, which was vacated earlier this year. Weitzel was born and raised in Spring Green with connections in Sauk and richland Counties to such families as the Bindls, Needhams, Weitzels and McPhillips. he has always been interested in local history. Ken is self-employed and has run his own business, the rock Step antiques, for 41 years. Ken enjoys the outdoors, and likes working in his garden. he is also restoring an 1867 house, which he owns in Mineral Point.

May/June 2008

The sauk County Historical society

P.o. Box 651

531 Fourth avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

new & renewed Members

PaTroN

Frank, Kaminski, Lake Delton, WI

BeNeFaCTor

robert,Dewel, Baraboo, WI

PaTroN

eric, Lewison, Baraboo, WI

SPoNSor

Karl and Melanie, Burgi, Baraboo, WI

ralph and Pam, Krainik, Baraboo, WI

Donna, Lange, reedsburg, WI

Ken and esther, Lange, Baraboo, WI

helen, SaLoutos, Baraboo, WI

William and Corinne, Beard, Baraboo, WI

Gary, Kowalke, Baraboo, WI

ron and Lynda, Barganz, Baraboo, WI

FaMILY

Librarian, allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne, IN

Ken and Mary, Grant, Baraboo, WI

Linda and Doug, Luther, Greenwood Village, Co

Marvin and Barbara, Juliar, evanston, IL

Jim and Marilyn, Karch, Baraboo, WI

arthur and Frances, Koenig, Madison, WI

Steve and Libby, rundio, Baraboo, WI

Peter and June, Sturgis, Baraboo, WI

Joseph and Barbara, Vodak, Baraboo, WIharold & audrey, hein, Baraboo, WI

Terry and Patricia, Turnquist, Baraboo, WI

al & Lola, DuBois, Palm harbor, FL

ralph & Carol, Zahnow, Middleton, WI

Jerry & ellen, Dargel, Baraboo, WI

robert and Joyce, Breen, hartford, WI

Mark and Candice, Graupman, reedsburg, WI

Jerry and Carol, Stich, Baraboo, WI

Cyril and Mary, Dickeman, reedsburg, WI

Gaylon, Shirley and emma, Steinhorst, Baraboo, WI

Dave, Casey, LaValle, WI

Fred, rochacewicz, Baraboo, WI

Lyle and June, Coates, Baraboo, WI

Gordon and Janice, Caflisch, Baraboo, WI

Jerry & ellen, Dargel, Baraboo, WI

robert and Joyce, Breen, hartford, WI

Mark and Candice, Graupman, reedsburg, WI

Jerry and Carol, Stich, Baraboo, WI

INDIVIDUaL

Sandra, alexander, hot Springs, ar

audrey, Belter, Florence, aZ

Craig, Caflisch, Baraboo, WI

Donald, Cole, DeForest, WI

Margo, Gallus, Merrimac, WI

William, Kidder, ewing, NJ

Barb, Naidl, Baraboo, WI

Paula, rice, Muskegon, MI

Sandra, Stiemke, Loganville, WI

Leota, Bellows, Baraboo, WI

Kathy, Steckelberg, arlington, Va

William, roberts, Lake Delton, WI

arlene, Jordan, Baraboo, WI

James, hanger, reedsburg, WI

William, Brahney, auburn, NY

Joan, Mcarthur, holmes Beach, FL

Marilyn, rohde, Baraboo, WI

Sharen, Grimsley, Pacolet, SC

Susan, Telkamp, Ivanhoe, MN

Max, Carpenter, Indianapolis, IN

robert, Schultz, Waukesha, WI

Karin, Weiss, Tigard, or

Wava, Vertein, North Freedom, WI

Betty, Cook, Clarksville, TN

Mary, Sinner, Baraboo, WI

Bev, Shook, Baraboo, WI

Inger, Clemens, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Sandy, Kaufmann, Madison, WI

Barbara, harvey, Sonora, Ca

Carol, McKellar, Lone Valley, NJ

July/August 2008

Man Mound Commemoration August 9

Although probably over 900 years of age at the turn of the twentieth century, Sauk County’s unique man-shaped Indian mound in the town of greenfield was threatened with complete destruction only a few years after the Sauk County historical Society was established in 1905. the lower part of the mound had already been destroyed below the knees by the creation of a public road but the upper portion remained in tact. Still in private hands, the mound was nearing destruction under the farmer’s plow however. In 1907 the Sauk County historical Society partnered with the Wisconsin Archeological Society and the landmarks Committee of the Federated Women’s Clubs of Wisconsin to solicit funds to purchase the property. Efforts were successful in raising the $225 needed and the mound was saved. In August of 1908 the property had been cleared enough to warrant the dedication of a new park named after the mound. Now nearly 100 years later the mound is once again to be celebrated at the Man Mound Commemoration Event, which will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2008 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Man Mound Park. Participating nations and organizations in the

event include the three original groups which are still in existence along with the ho-Chunk Nation, Wisconsin Archeological Survey, Wisconsin historical Society-State Archeologists office, and the Sauk County uW Extension, Arts and Culture Committee which is helping sponsor the event. While intended to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the dedication in 1908 the event will largely focus on the importance of this unique mound, its national importance and its future stewardship. Exhibits and food will be available at the park during the event. guests are asked to bring their own lawn chairs and parking will be in the eastbound lane of Man Mound Road, as the road will be changed to one-way east bound for the event. Contact the museum for more information at 608-356-1001 and check out the Man Mound page on our new website – www. saukcountyhistory.org

Left: the Man Mound. Above: Man Mound Ceremony, 1908

obituary

Wayne Hatz

SAuk County historians lost a great resource with the death of Wayne hatz on Friday February 15, 2008. Wayne grew up in the Sauk Prairie area and he and his wife Myrtie were avid genealogists and collectors of Sauk County history. Wayne was very active in the Badger history group and was the driving force behind the documentary on Badger Village and created a renewed interest in Erhart Mueller's writings on that area. Wayne was a strong supporter of local historical societies and generous with his research and knowledge. he always had a story to tell and research to share when he came into the museum and was eager to volunteer when his schedule and health permitted. We will miss Wayne’s good cheer, his stories and his enthusiasm.

Memorial Gifts

thE Society wishes to gratefully acknowledge the receipt of $2,500 from the living trust of Bob and Anna Capener. this money will be used to further the Society’s core mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk County history. the donation will be acknowledged on the Society’s major donors plaque at the Van orden Mansion under the William h. Canfield Associates category.

thANk you to Craig and Deborah karr and Walt Smith for their donations in honor of Rawland “Bud” McNabb. Bud was the father of member John McNabb and the Society is honored to be gifted in his memory.

Volunteers Bob Doepke and Paul Washam take their turn staffing the Sauk County Historical Society booth at Baraboo's Faire on the Square on May 17th. The Society featured photographs from a number of our county's communities, which greatly interested those in attendance around the county seat's downtown square. Visitors asked about historic locations, our Society's new History Center progress, and the then upcoming Tour of Historic Home-which is always a favorite event.

History Center donors

SeCond Century SponSor Sylvia Epstein guy & Mary Porth

(since last newsletter)

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

Workers from Statz Restoration have been caulking around the new windows at the history center and work will begin soon on the repairing and restoring the front stairs to the building.

Society Adopts new Logo

thE Sauk County historical Society has a new logo designed by graphic artist and author, Mark tully of Bananaboat Advertising graphics, Baraboo. the new design incorporates the unique outline of the county mounted in a circle surrounded with the title of the society. Below this the words “Established in 1905” are shown to highlight the fact that the Sauk County historical Society is one of the oldest local historical societies in the state. As the Society now has two buildings, the Van orden Mansion and the Sauk County history Center, it was decided that a new logo would be useful so as not to tie the Society’s image to only one or the other.

Society Has new Web Site

thE Sauk County historical Society’s current web site saw the light of day in August of 1997. As of the end of June 2008, it has registered just over a million hits! It was developed and hosted by an outside internet provider, and donated free as part of our non-profit status. As we progressed as a Society, our desire to outreach to the Internet community has also increased. to more easily facilitate changes and additions to our web site the board decided to bring web site creation in house as it were. that plan finally reached fruition several months ago when Board Members Beverly Vaillancourt and Bill Schuette found a web site development program that suited the needs of the Society. together, the two have been working on the project and the results of that effort are now on line. Please visit the new (and improved) web site at: www.saukcountyhistory.org

We also have a new email address (the old one will be good for a while yet) and you may contact us at history@saukcountyhistory.org

let us know what you think. If you have suggestions of things we should include or any changes that should be made, we would love hearing from you. Stop back often as new items will be added regularly like local history articles and pictures. upcoming events will also be posted regularly and merchandise from the Society can now be purchased on line.

director’s report

By orris Smith

thE June 2008 flooding around Sauk County and beyond has certainly been on our mind recently. historic events are always of interest, yet in a quite different way during research than while living through them. the flooding, following a record snowfall winter, brings home the point that we cannot know what lies ahead—and it is sometimes feast or famine.

Driving the county roads resembles being in some disaster movie’s virtual reality. A five or ten foot drop from a country road surface is pretty common these days, as municipalities prioritize which roads to fix first. It can be startling to find these gigantic pieces of road missing seemingly everywhere, a testament to what Mother Nature can dish out. the national news played stunning video on the whole lake we lost when lake Delton’s force of nature took over, cutting a new channel to the Wisconsin River while destroying land, homes, family dreams, and this year’s tourism boom.

Most of our great volunteers and loyal members share stories of the past with the museum staff here. these include sighs of relief when the floods could have been worse for them, but mostly focus on their family or friends’ huge losses. Many will be severely affected financially; and all of them plus more will be impacted emotionally. Personal belongings have been lost or forever damaged, and cannot be replaced.

our new history Center, located adjacent to the Baraboo River, was virtually untouched by recent events. last years foundation work passed with flying colors, keeping out moisture from the super-saturated ground. River water approached the lower lever of the former woolen mill office building, but only for a couple hours. timing appeared to be everything. the final absolute

downpour should have raised the river more, but rain came at exactly the time that water was receding from the prior storms.

At the Sauk County historical Society, we’re hoping for floods of a different nature. We hope for a flood of membership increases to help support our many education projects. We hope for a flood of “Pillars of Progress” donations, so heating and air conditioning can be purchased for the new history Center (we can’t move in without those—a $60,000 total cost.) We hope for a flood of new or reinvigorated volunteers, who are the backbone of any great historical society. Absolutely great, caring people have stepped forward in the past. In our daily fundraising efforts, timing once again appears to be everything!

ContrIBute HIStory oF todAy

thE floods of 2008 will be very memorable in many ways. the Sauk County historical Society is currently collecting artifacts related to the flood. We'd be happy to scan some of your best pictures and return them, or have you E-mail them to us at history@ saukcountyhistory.org. Please include any captions or descriptions.

What other item relating to this epic event does your family have that might be of interest to future historians? If there is a great story behind it, our Museum may be interested in preserving the artifact. If unsure, call the Society at 356-1001 on tuesdays through Saturdays with your questions.

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings

Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913 608.356.7449

You first.

Securities are offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member NASD/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal

#4718 m

       

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We Care program

the Sauk County historical Society receives matching gift awards when you participate in “Pierce’s Market Card” program. If you own or get a new “Market Card,” please connect it to the Sauk County historical Society by designating number 700500.

Raymond James Financial Services

thE Society’s Founder’s Day Picnic was held June 3rd on the grounds of the Badger Steam and gas Engine Club. though the evening was cool, and threatening rain, the weather held off and fifty-three members enjoyed roast beef and pork sandwiches. A special treat was homemade ice cream provided by Paul Young. Dick goddard, president of the new lake States Railway historical Association, spoke about the new group and the railroad’s influence on Sauk County.

Founders’ day picnic recap tour of Homes Successful

oNCE again the weather was favorable for the Society’s eighth tour of historic homes on June 21. While crowds were down from previous years the event was still a very successful fundraiser for the Society thanks in large part to a partial matching grant from thrivent Financial for lutherans and the help of local sponsors, Senger lumber and Don-Rick Insurance. the tour Committee would like to sincerely thank all of the homeowners who allowed us to view their beautiful historic homes and the nearly 90 volunteers who helped staff the homes. the Society would also like to thank the tour Committee for their months of hard work in organizing the event.

Society Members Save Historic records

thE Sauk County historical Society came to the aid of the town of la Valle when the town's documents were found dampened by water that had made its way into the town vault. Irreplaceable ledgers, including one from 1852, which chronicles the organization of the town of Marston (later laValle), needed to be removed from the vault immediately. Shown are Society board members Paul Wolter and Beverly Vaillancourt and town clerk katie Radtke loading a pallet of documents into a van. Also along to help was Society board member and photographer Bill Schuette. laValle's historically important documents were transported to the Sauk County history Center. once the history Center is fully renovated, la Valle's historical documents will be available for research by the general public.

During its heyday in the 1920s the Island Woolen Company supported a baseball team. In the background is the office building. Current restoration efforts have nearly returned the exterior of the building to its pristine 1920s look. The Sauk County Historical Society's collections include items from the mill including one of the wool baseball jerseys. With exterior work plans nearing completion, phase two begins with renovation efforts concentrated on the interior, including new heating and air conditioning systems. The need to install a system that provides the correct climate control for one-hundred year old documents is a costly part of the project. Dollars are immediately needed for this phase of the project before work can proceed on the interior of the building. To this end, fund raising efforts continue.

Slumberland Furniture

Furniture that lives the way you do Located on Hwy 12 next to Gander Mountain

We hope to see you soon for all your home furnishing needs!

Stop in or call us at 356-9555

July/August 2008 the Sauk County Historical Society

P.o. Box 651 531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

new & renewed Members

tHAnk you to tHeSe MeMBerS WHo HAve reneWed SInCe our LASt neWSLetter

PAtRoN

Jerry and Patricia Bullard, Reedsburg WI

SPoNSoR

kenneth & Virgina Whitcomb, honolulu hI

Betty thiessen, Baraboo WI

CouPlE

Susan Bock, Cincinnati oh

Ron and Janet Brandt, Elgin Il

larry & keri olson, Baraboo WI

Frank and Colleen terbilcox, Baraboo WI

gib, gail and thomas Bird, Baraboo WI

Paula hanskett, Baraboo WI

John and Eleanor Normington, Reedsburg WI

Charles and kathleen laCombe, Baraboo WI

Dick and Carol Davis, Baraboo WI

INDIVIDuAl

Neal Simons, Minneapolis MN

Dick goddard, North Freedom WI

Nancy leeming, Ithaca NY

Jean Smith, Baraboo WI

helen Stieve, Prairie du Sac WI

Ronald Bauer, Reedsburg WI

Janet Pearson, Baraboo WI

Shirley Spees, Baraboo WI

Jennifer klett, Menomonee Falls WI

Colleen Northup, lake oswego WI

Rob Nurre, Columbus WI

gay kaney, Baraboo WI

Jan Dodge, Coupeville WA

www.saukcountyhistory.org

Man Mound Event Brings People Together

THE The Man Mound Commemoration Event on August 9 was attended by nearly 300 people from as far away as Pennsylvania and Iowa. With participation from nearly a dozen organizations and the Ho-Chunk Nation the day was a great coming together of many different people around the common theme of the Man Mound, which brought people together around 1,000 years ago during its construction. While the importance of the Man Mound and its preservation one hundred years ago were emphasized, the future of the Man Mound was also stressed as was the fact that although saved, the Man Mound is also incomplete. The outline of the legs and feet across the road and into the neighboring field was a graphic reminder of the destruction of nearly one quarter of the mound. The Sauk County Historical Society has established a Man Mound Committee to further the preservation, stewardship and future of the Man Mound. Rob Nurre, who portrayed Mr. Canfield for the day, was appointed as chair of the committee. Work has already begun to further the understanding of the mound through planning for an archeological study. The Society wishes to thank all who participated in the Man Mound Commemoration

Event and the Sauk County UW-Extension, Arts and Culture Committee for their support. Thanks also go to the UW-Sauk County/Baraboo, Columbia ParCar and Riverside Rentals for in-kind donations.

Annual Banquet and Meeting –October 21

The Annual Banquet and Business Meeting of the Sauk County Historical Society will be held Tuesday, October 21 at 6 p.m. The banquet will be held at the Voyageur Inn in Reedsburg. After dinner a short business meeting will be held followed by featured speaker Dr. William Gartner, who will speak on the Hulbert Creek Garden Beds. Please watch your mail for a separate flyer with detailed information on the banquet and annual meeting. We hope you will plan now to attend on October 21.

Left: Rob Nurre portrays W.H. Canfield. Right: The Ho-Chunk Thundercloud Singers opened and closed the day’s celebration.

President’s Report

By Paul Wolter

AS my most favorite season, fall is also one with the most transition. As children head back to school and the leaves change color thoughts turn toward the winter months and upcoming activities. Memories are also solidified as the summer slips farther and farther away. I will always remember this summer as the summer we commemorated the 100th anniversary of Man Mound Park and what a wonderful day it was. So many people came together to highlight the importance of this one of a kind earthwork. The crowd was above my expectations and everything went according to plans and I would like to thank everyone who was involved. Afterward I was pleased to be able to show the ongoing History Center project and the Van Orden Mansion to Dr. Ellsworth Brown, Director of the Wisconsin Historical Society. While work on the History Center has slowed this year it has not stopped. Work on the front steps and sidewalks is being done and new front doors should be installed yet this year. Fundraising is still ongoing to get over the largest interior project which is the heating and cooling systems. The History Center will revolutionize the ways in which the Society can fulfill its mission to collect, preserve and share Sauk County history. I want to thank everyone who has given to this worthwhile project and encourage those that haven´t to consider it no matter what the amount. I would also invite our supporters to consider an additional gift in the coming months to help finish the project. We are near to the $200,000 mark with an additional $150,000 needed. The Sauk County Historical Society has been a leader in preserving the unique heritage of the county now for 103 years. The new History Center will help continue our efforts well into the future.

History Center

Donors (since last newsletter)

Helen SaLoutos (Claude & Stark Associate)

Eugene & Mona Larsen (Claude & Stark Associate)

Pedro Kuczynski & Nancy Lange (Pillar of Progress Owner)

Bob Brown (In Kind)

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

Society Says Good Bye to Curator

The Society’s curator, Destinee (Swanson) Udelhoven, has taken a new position as Director of the Historic Indian Agency House in Portage and will start there September 29th. Udelhoven has been with the Sauk County Historical Society for one year after coming from the Adams House and Museum in Deadwood, South Dakota. Though her time with the Society has been relatively short, Udelhoven has managed to revamp several exhibits and work on a new educational program for fourth graders. The Board of Directors is working on a replacement for the Curator position. (Also see page 3)

Tour of Historic Haunts October 25 at 7:00 p.m.

THE Society’s third annual Tour of Historic Haunts will be held Saturday night, October 25 at 7 p.m. The all new tour will start at Ochsner’s Park and take in the history, legend and lore of Baraboo’s west end. Guides will lead small groups to several stops where they will hear about some of the larger than life characters that once inhabited this side of town. Participants will also learn about post-mortem photography and the Victorian tradition of weaving a deceased loved one’s hair into artwork. Please help spread the word! Tell your friends and neighbors about this late evening walk, Saturday, October 25 beginning at 7:00 p.m. at the large shelter in Ochsner’s Park. Tickets are $8 per person and can be purchased the night of the walk which will involve about eight blocks of walking.

Ghoulies, Ghosties, Things that Go Bump in the Night…..and MUSEUM ARTIFACTS?!?

By Destinee (Swanson) Udelhoven, Curator

WITH the Society’s Tour of Historic Baraboo Haunts just around the corner, I invite you to take a moment to indulge in a bit of dark and morbid thought. Think about something that scares you. Is it a vampire movie? A haunted house story? The monster under your childhood bed? How about a Sauk County Historical Society artifact? No? Well, let me tell you something, Mr. (or Ma’am), we here at the Society have PLENTY of things that just might creep the socks right off your fall-chilled feet. For example, the Society possesses an eerie framed portrait of “Becky,” the favorite antique doll of local collector Alice Trimpey who even penned a wellknown book about Becky’s “life.” When Alice died in 1949, poor Becky was buried with her as Alice had requested. It is not known if Becky was given a say in this matter. Or how about the floral-themed hair wreath affectionately tatted from the wiry tresses of who-knows-how-many dead relatives of the maker? This macabre wreath (actually a quite common Victorian-era decorative element) has been

around for an estimated 150 years now—generations longer than the heads into which the hair once nestled. And, last, but certainly not least, the Society cares for the law office desk of Baraboo Judge Robert M. Gollmar. Gollmar was the lucky (?) guy who presided over the noto riously grisly Edward Gein murder trial of 1968. Gollmar found the defendant innocent by reason of insanity. So stop by and see what our little museum has to offer—IF YOU DARE!

To the Members of the Sauk County Historical Society

I write this to wish a fond farewell to all those associated with the Sauk County Historical Society, as my all-too-brief tenure as Curator draws to a close. I have accepted the position of Executive Director of Portage’s Historic Indian Agency House, a post I will be assuming at the beginning of this October. At the Agency House, I will be responsible for daily operations, staff supervision, collections care, and fundraising, as well as the numberless other tasks that face the small staff of historical non-profits. As I take my leave, I would like to warmly thank all who have taken the time to get to know me and have lent me a hand (and often even a whole arm) in a million small ways. I only wish I had had the opportunity to meet more of you. In this vein, I invite you all to become better acquainted with the Society, its tireless staff, its dedicated Board, and especially its wonderfully diverse collections. In a national sea of floundering houses of local history, I have been amazed by what this Society has accomplished. As a final request, I implore you to continue your support of the SCHS as they strive to not only retain

an honorable status quo, but as they move forward with their vision of a History Center devoted to sustaining and safeguarding YOUR history. Even as this new chapter of my life begins, I will watch with keen interest the efforts and activities of the Sauk County Historical Society, because I know they have the potential to be something great.

Best Regards,

Destinee (Swanson) Udelhoven, Curator

Harrisburg Historical Society

By Carol Anderson, Harrisburg Historical Society President

The restoration of the Harrisburg one room school, located on CTH B between Plain and Sauk City, has taken great strides this year. Money was raised for a new roof and that work has been completed. Windows have been replicated. The deck has been redone. Interior hall walls and floors have been replaced. The exterior has been upgraded where needed and is completely painted. Interior walls have had a primer of paint.

Shelves are being built to complete the basement. These shelves will be a repository for artifacts from the other eight original Town of Troy one room schools. A cupola for the roof is being built to house the original bell which was given by a former teacher, Carla Kruse. Several original blackboards and thirty original folding chairs have been donated as well as a piano and a merry go round.

Trees have been planted and a new rail fence has been installed. A lighted flag breaks through the dark as you travel east or west. Outhouses and a softball field, which were originally part of the school yard, are in the

Making Steps

WORK to restore the front stairs and install sidewalks at the Sauk County History Center has been ongoing this fall. Statz Restoration has been retained to work on the stairs and the installation of the sidewalks is being donated by an anonymous volunteer. Baraboo Concrete has also donated concrete to the project. A new front door and side lights are being ordered to bring the front of the building back to its original design.

planning.

The Harrisburg Historical Society is an affiliate of the Sauk County Historical Society. The SCHS is to be commended for addressing this type of affiliation in their mission statement. Donations of items for the school interior are welcomed.

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings

Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913 608.356.7449

You first.

Securities are offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member NASD/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal

#4718 m

       

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 

We Care Program

The Sauk County Historical Society receives matching gift awards when you participate in “Pierce’s Market Card” program. If you own or get a new “Market Card,” please connect it to the Sauk County Historical Society by designating number 700500.

Raymond James Financial Services

History on Wheels!

THROUGH the generosity of Reedsburg businessman, Marty Koenecke, the Sauk County Historical Society now sports a History on Wheels trailer. The trailer’s first showing was at the recently held Man Mound Day, when it was used to transport much needed items for the event. Watch for the History on Wheels trailer to make its way to area schools, senior centers, and historical events. Many thanks to Marty Koenecke for helping the Sauk County Historical Society enrich the present by bring a bit of the past to the residents of Sauk County.

Successful Bookshelf Grant gives SCHS new resources for preservation

by Mary Farrell Stieve

PRESERVING Sauk County History and making that history accessible to the public is a big task. To do it at the highest possible standards we needed training. As we looked at resources for that training, we discovered that the Institute of Museum and Library Services in Washington D.C. offered a grant for the “IMLS Connecting to Collections Bookshelf”. This was a library of resources selected by professionals from the Heritage Preservation, the National Institute for Conservation to help small and medium sized museums and libraries better preserve and catalog their collections.

We were pleased to see that several books listed in the grant were ones we already referred to often, but did not own ourselves. Destinee Swanson and Mary Farrell Stieve wrote the grant and submitted it to IMLS. We highlighted the variety of our collections, the support of our members and volunteers and the generous gifts of items and papers that needed care. We outlined our plans to improve our level of collections care and management in order to make our Society’s treasures accessible to researchers and visitors in this generation and preserve them for future generations.

The IMLS review committee accepted our grant and awarded us the library. In it are books on cleaning and organizing, preserving and identifying, understanding and interpreting the items entrusted to us by the community. They will be a great resource for the staff and volunteers but are also available to members and researchers who

need more information about how they can preserve their own history for the future. If you are in the area, come in and take a look at our new resource library. I promise that among the books there will be at least one that will capture your interest.

The IMLS Connecting to Collections Bookshelf was funded by grants from the Getty Foundation, the Henry Luce Foundation and the Samuel H. Kress Foundation. It is administered through the American Association of State and Local History.

Destinee Udelhoven, left, and Mary Farrell Stieve, display newest resource materials

Society Receives Miniature Model of Van Orden Mansion

IN 2004, Society President, Paul Wolter submitted blueprints of the Van Orden Mansion, the Society’s headquarters, to the Waupun Correctional Institution. He had learned of their WCI Toy Project and hoped they could recreate our mansion in miniature. Finally, in the spring of 2008, the Society received a call that the project was completed and it could be picked up.

“The philosophy of the Toy Project is to benefit community nonprofit organizations by donating various wooden toys/items for their organization’s fund raising events, and to promote a more positive and interactive relationship between the community and the institution,” notes a statement on the institution’s web site. “Communities need to understand the abilities of inmates and to recognize that the Department of Corrections is providing work positions that teach skills to inmates, which may be used upon their reintegration into the community.

“This program has a twofold purpose. First, it has significant rehabilitative goals. Not only does it keep inmates occupied in a productive manner, but it also teaches skills, which provide a means of employment or leisure time activity upon release. Second, it provides a

Web Page Update

community service, while also providing wooden toys for the underprivileged children in the community.”

The mini-mansion measures three and a half by five feet and consists of six sections. It was constructed from surplus materials, which were donated to the prison. Much of the wood is recycled from pallets, the carpets are remnants, the wallpaper is from sample catalogues, and other details such as fixtures, shingles, and exterior segments of the structure, were all hand-made by the inmates.

Since its inauguration this past August, our new Web site has had over 1000 visitors. New pages are being added frequently, so visit us often. Check out our Man Mound page for additional photos of this historic event. Also included on the Web site is a list of upcoming events sponsored by the Society, along with dates, locations and times. You may donate, add to your membership and purchase merchandise on line through the Web site. www.saukcountyhistory.org.

September/October 2008

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, WI 53913

New & Renewed Members

THANk yOU TO THESE MEMbERS WHO HAvE RENEWEd SINCE OUR lAST NEWSlETTER

BENEFACTOR

John & Elizabeth Davenport, Minnetonka, MN

Virginia Metcalf and Mary Yeakel, Wisconsin Dells, WI

PATRON

Edwin Bodendein, LaValle, WI

David and Sherry Baldwin, Baraboo, WI

SPONSOR

William & Gretchen Dresen, Baraboo, WI

John & Rikki McNabb, Baraboo, WI

August and Beverly Pieper, Madison, WI

Robert and Diana Hrabovsky, Wichita Falls, TX

Rose E Lee, Baraboo, WI

Steven Peck, Silver Spring, MD

Bev Simonds, Baraboo, WI

Linda and Ed Benoway, Lutz, FL

FRIEND

Bernadette Bittner, Reedsburg, WI

Carol Hulterstrum, Baraboo, WI

Alice Popp, Baraboo, WI

Hackett Family Reunion, Appleton, WI

Paul & Judy Washam, Baraboo, WI

Bryant Hazard, Baraboo, WI

Gloria Weth, Rotunda West, FL

Natalie Bussan and Chad Hendee, Baraboo, WI

Jan and Landon Risteen, Chicago, IL

Fred and Sharon Steiger, Beach Park, IL

William Peck, Madison, WI

FAMILY

Ray & Hazel Bayley, Madison, WI

Ben and Fran Conway, Loves Park, IL

James & Marsha Davis, Reedsburg, WI

Clair and Janet Keylock, Baraboo, WI

Eleanor Kuehn Mede, Normal, IL

Harvey & Carol Myers, Reedsburg, WI

Glenn & Marilyn Quale, Baraboo, WI

Harland & Patricia Steinhorst, Citrus Springs, FL

Jerry and Nel Corton, Baraboo, WI

Mike and Peg Martiny, Princeville, IL

Beverly and Pat Cabbage, Spokane, WA

Dick Nold, Oronoco, MN

Lyle & June Coates, Baraboo, WI

Anne and Jeff Smith, Baraboo, WI

Richard R Johnson, LaValle, WI

Bob and Vi Tully, Baraboo, WI

Tom and Linda Kolb, Baraboo, WI

Marv & Kathy Ruhland, Cross Plains, WI

Bill & Sally Peck, Green Bay, WI

Sheldon Stanley and Family, Little Falls, MN

Robert and Judith Schroeder, Elgin, IL

INDIVIDUAL

Kay Prosser, Baraboo, WI

Louise Rich, Baraboo, WI

Vera Scoles, Baraboo, WI

Gene Setwyn, Reedsburg, WI

Susan Bingler, Jeffersonton, VA

Joan M Ryan, Lodi, WI

James McBride, Santa Fe, NM

Deb Twigg, Waverly, NY

Carol Pickart, Vinton, IA

Kay Oppliger, Oshtemo, MI

Delores Fargen, Redding, CA

Pat Quinn, Little Falls, MN

Mark Villavicencio, Wisconsin Dells, WI

Carole Paquette, Baraboo, WI

Genealogical Society of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT

Shari L Cook, Sauk City, WI

Dorothy Bushnell Bennett, Lake Hughes, CA

Linda Schneller, Prairie du Sac, WI

Steve Koenig, Loganville, WI

John Maloney, Bridgewater, NJ

Paddi Millard, Mazomanie, WI

Tom & Jenny Risley, Beach Park, IL

Blaine Hedberg, Reedsburg, WI

Joseph Screnock, Baraboo, WI

Dorothy Bouffiou, Baraboo, WI

Victorian Christmas Open House December 13th

Live music, twelve decorated trees, and horse-drawn carriage rides will highlight the Sauk County Historical Society’s ninth annual victorian Christmas Open House on December 13th from 12-8 P.M. at the van Orden Mansion in Baraboo. The mansion, located at 531 Fourth Avenue, will be decked out for the holidays with twelve stunning Christmas trees decorated by area designers, florists, businesses and volunteers including The Flower Shop of Spring Green, Amber Moon, Crazy Daisy, Bekah Kate’s, The village Booksmith, Greg and Karen DeSanto, David Saloutos, ellen Lee, DReAMS and Society volunteers. in what has become a Sauk County Historical Society Christmas tradition, horse drawn carriage rides will once again ferry people around the block, providing an authentic jingle bell experience. inside the mansion, guests will enjoy holiday goodies at the bountiful dessert table. This year’s showcase centerpiece will be a gingerbread replica of the beautiful 1889 Keysar Home of Prairie du Sac. Live music will enhance the open house as area musicians perform a variety of Christmas music in a variety of formats from choral selections to string, brass, and wind ensembles throughout the day. The day wouldn’t be complete without

The Keysar House in Prairie du Sac will be recreated in gingerbread this year for the Society’s Victorian Christmas Open House. The house was built in 1889 for entrepreneur Miles Keysar and family.

the Christmas gift raffle featuring a variety of items from area businesses and volunteers. everyone is invited to this very special Sauk County holiday tradition.

Sidewalks & Landscaping Completed

Through the generosity of David and Denise Statz the sidewalks and landscaping were completed in October at the Sauk County History Center. Over 150 feet of sidewalk was donated along with more plantings to compliment the trees and shrubs donated by the Statzes in 2007. A final lawn seeding was also completed with the help of David and Roman Statz and Jerry Hohl. A new front door and capstones for the front stairs wing walls are expected to arrive in November.

2008 Annual Banquet Highlights

SixTy-NiNe members attended the annual meeting and banquet of the Sauk County Historical Society at the voyageur inn, Reedsburg, on October 21. After dinner, Society President, Paul Wolter, opened the business meeting. The minutes and treasurer’s reports of the 2007 meeting were read, followed by the election of board members. elected for another three-year term were Mona Larsen, Bob Brown, Sue Teska and Pam Krainik. Orris Smith and Mary Farrel-Stieve thanked the volunteers for their dedicated work at the museum and History Center. A year in review presentation highlighting the events of the Society was given by Wolter, followed by a presentation by Dr. William Gartner, UW-Madison, Department of Geography. Dr. Gartner spoke on the agricultural contributions made by early Native Americans, highlighting the Hulburt Creek Garden Beds, located near Lake Delton.

Tour of Historic Haunts Delights Crowd

New Book Available

This selected history of the Baraboo region identifies six features that make it unique and that help explain why it has had an extraordinary impact on the state, nation, and world. The author uses a personal narrative to introduce each of the six topics, and relates Baraboo's geological, environmental, and social history to the issues confronting it today. Biographies of an environmental icon, the first president of the Ho-Chunk Nation, the Ringling brothers, a legendary sheriff, three founders of an international effort to save cranes, and others are imbedded in this unique book about a special place. Soft cover. $20.00 Add $4. if shipped. Available at the museum.

WiTH unseasonably warm evening temperatures a larger than expected crowd turned out for the Society’s third annual Tour of Historic Haunts on October 25. This year’s tour started out at Ochsner’s Park where tour groups were initiated with an animated rendition of Baraboo’s first permanent settler, Abe Wood. Other stops included locations in Ochsner’s Park, the old vittum estate on Seventh Avenue, the Goude House on Park Street and the van Orden Mansion where two historic vignettes were set up. One dealt with the victorian custom of post-mortem photography and the other with the custom of hair weaving. Over twenty-five volunteers helped make the event a resounding success with over 200 people taking the tour, up from 147 the past two years. A river front tour in the Water Street area is already being planned for 2009.

History Center Donors (since

last newsletter)

Helen SaLoutos (Second Century Sponsor)

Bill Schuette (Claude & Stark Associate)

Virgil & Edith Hartje (Claude & Stark Associate)

If you are interested in making a gift to toward this important project, please contact the Society at (608) 356-1001.

Pete Shrake plays the part of post-mortem photographer at the Van Orden Mansion capturing the mournful looks of the widow (Mel Burgi, left) and the mother (Sharon McArthur, right) who pose with the corpse (Pat Lannoye).

Director’s Report

By Orris Smith

eveRyBODy has a story. The Historical Society staff hears many stories from museum visitors coming to learn about family, friends, or community. Our wonderful volunteers also share pleasant tales complete with a hearty laugh or the obvious pride taken in their family or friends.

Actually, stories are what we do and who we are at the Sauk County Historical Society. Researchers endeavor to learn more about a place or event, relishing the stories told in the pages of our library. Some of them are authors who piece together interesting stories their readers love. Relatives try to fill in the blanks in their family tree, relying on the many archives located within the museum. visitors read the exhibit text that craft the many highlights of this county’s past, examine historic documents on display, and find interesting books or DvDs to buy. Meanwhile, children can play with toys of yesteryear as parents share favorite recollections.

Over two hundred people were drawn to October’s “Tour of Historic Haunts” in Baraboo to hear even more stories. This was a record-breaking crowd, certainly helped by good weather, but equally bolstered by interest in community facts or love of ghost stories. Our events committee went to great lengths to research the facts, find interesting locations, and enlist re-enactors to present the stories in an enjoyable fashion.

Due to the generosity of Reedsburg businessman Marty Koenecke, the Society now has a “History on Wheels” trailer. The Society applied for and received a grant to transform the inside of the trailer. Soon it will tell the county’s story in a capsule, and will travel to many places to share that story with others, including to schools and to community events throughout the county.

A “Sauk County investigation” program is currently being written for the county’s fourth graders. Look for this program to makes its way into the schools this spring.

Work will also continue inside our new History Center building during the colder weather months despite having no heat in the facility. Thanks to the generosity of virgil and edith Hartje, the Society received badly needed dollars toward a new heating system for the building. We hope to raise the remaining dollars for the project in the coming months. All additional donations toward that goal are certainly welcome. Watch for installation of the new front entry door! it was designed to match the original. The Society very much appreciates all who have donated

money over the past year to move this project forward. Our next stories will appear quickly. The 2009 museum theme is “Sauk County at War”, and numerous exhibits will be added. We’re sure they will spark memories for future visitors. And then there’s the victorian Christmas Open House on December 13th. We have a group of energized volunteers anxious to trim up our twelve live Christmas trees with their great imagination, all inside the beautiful 1904 mansion that tells its own story.

Stop by the museum soon and see the stories you most enjoy! There truly is something for everyone.

Two Volume History of the Baraboo Retail & Commercial District Available

THe second printing of Joe Ward’s 900 page-two volume book set that chronicles the growth of the Baraboo retail & business district from the 1840's until today will be completed soon. There are a few sets that are not reserved and will be available for $160.00 per set. This may be the last printing until 2017 when the updated versions are scheduled to be printed. A copy of these books may be seen at the Sauk County Historical Museum or the Baraboo Library. Telephone 608-356-2102 to reserve a copy.

The Hulburt Creek Fields

William Gustav Gartner, Department of Geography, University of Wisconsin-Madison

ABOUT 5 km west of a sprawling complex of water slides, miniature golf courses, and tourist shops that characterize the modern day town of Wisconsin Dells are the remnants of ancient agricultural fields. These fields overlook the branched headwaters of Hulburt Creek and appear as parallel sets of sinuously shaped ridges elevated above the natural level of the ground. At one time, the Hulburt Creek fields may have covered 300 acres. However, time and modern land-use have ravaged the site such that only 1.4 acres of fields survive in separated wood lots, roadside easements, and the forested boundaries of modern corn fields today.

The surviving remnants of the Hulburt Creek fields have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Hulburt Creek fields are of national historic significance for several reasons. Foremost is that they are the oldest surviving field system yet found in the Upper Midwest and Western Great Lakes regions, dating back to around 1000 AD.

The Hulburt Creek fields are significant for another reason as well. The buried soils, planting surfaces, ditches, crop remains, and archaeological features at the Hulburt Creek site are like an ancient agronomy book that details the practices of American indian agriculture. Soil and other analyses show that the Late Woodland peoples who built the Hulburt Creek fields were sophisticated agriculturalists who grew maize, squash, and tubers here. indeed, they were the original organic farmers and can teach us something today about sustainable food production in marginal environments.

The Hulburt Creek uplands are a terrible place to farm as the soils are infertile and prone to both water-

logging and drought. Late Woodland peoples overcame these agricultural constraints through the construction and maintenance of raised fields. First, Late Woodland peoples slashed and burned a large portion of the Hulburt Creek uplands and then allowed the charcoal, ash, and fine silt-sized particles to wash down the gentle slopes here and bury the original surface of the ground. They then excavated this newly formed surface and incorporated the materials into elevated planting surfaces, thus improving the fertility of the soil. The ditches also served as a type of compost area, as the sinuous shape of the fields captured water and organic matter which was used to refurbish planting surfaces.

The Hulburt Creek fields were part of an American indian cultural landscape in northeastern Sauk County that consisted of mounds, rock art sites, trails, villages, and campsites. Although this cultural landscape is about 1,000 years old, its widely scattered remnants continue to inspire people of all cultural backgrounds today.

Help Wanted

We need enthusiastic readers to help us index local history books. Must be thorough, accurate and love to read. Qualified applicants will be trained. No computer skills are required but are very desirable. Benefits include increased knowledge of local history, satisfaction of increasing the Society's finding aids, heartfelt gratitude from staff and researchers, and evening alternatives to reality TV. To apply contact the Sauk County Historical Society at 356-1001, and ask for Mary.

From investing for today to retirement planning for tomorrow, it’s important to make the most of your earnings

Please contact me today for a complimentary consultation

Brett Topham, CFP® Financial Planner

Located at The Baraboo National Bank

109 Third Avenue Baraboo, WI 53913 608.356.7449

You first.

Securities are offered exclusively through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member NASD/SIPC, an independent broker/dealer, and are not insured by FDIC, NCUA or any other financial institution insurance, are not deposits or obligations of the financial institution, are not guaranteed by the financial institution, and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal

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  

 

We Care Program

The Sauk County Historical Society receives matching gift awards when you participate in “Pierce’s Market Card” program. if you own or get a new “Market Card,” please connect it to the Sauk County Historical Society by designating number 700500.

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Sauk County Naturally

THeRe are many new venues to explore on the Society’s constantly changing web site. included are photos of our recent Halloween Historic Haunts of Baraboo. Check it out, if you dare.

Sauk County has been blessed with some of the most beautiful scenic wonders in southern Wisconsin. And one of the things that made them even more picturesque this year, were the brilliant autumn colors. Like many of you, i have lived all my life in Sauk County, and never taken the opportunity to visit some of these intriguing sites. So this fall, i decided to change that.

i spent one afternoon climbing the east bluff of Devil’s Lake (yes, straight up the rocks), to visit Balance Rock. i took a much easier route up the back way (on the advice of Ken Lange) to the top of the West Bluff. When i exited the woods, the vista before me was indescribably breathtaking!

van Hise Rock near Rock Springs, was my next target. And just across the road, almost hidden from view, is Ableman’s Gorge. The stunning colors of the rock outcroppings coupled with the yellows, reds and browns of the autumn leaves was a sight not to be missed. There’s a scenic trail that winds leisurely around the base of these

By Bill Schuette, SCHS Web Master

ancient quartz mountains. My next adventure was visiting Natural Bridge State Park near LeLand. it was cold with flakes of snow drifting through the air, but the trip was well worth the moderate climb. Beside the bridge, is a cave, first occupied by Native Americans some 10,000 years ago. if you’ve never taken the opportunity to visit one of these sites, put it on your list of things to do in the coming year. Springtime would be a wonderful time to view nature’s awakening in Sauk County. in the mean time, visit our web site to see what you’ve been missing. Go to www.saukcountyhistory.org, and click on “Sauk County Naturally.”

Welcome Our New Curator

The Sauk County Historical Society would like to welcome Sue Teska as the new Curator.

Sue grew up in Green Bay (1 mile from Packer Stadium) and received her BA in History from UW-Green Bay in 1988. She then went on to graduate school at eastern illinois University where she completed courses in a masters program in museum administration.

Sue started working at Heritage Hill State Park in Green Bay when she was 12 years old as a tour guide and continued there throughout high school and college. She then went to work at Lincoln Log Cabin State Park in Charleston, iL during graduate school. From there, she went on to Macon County Conservation District in Decatur, illinois for her internship for graduate school and helped develop the special events and interiors for an 1860's era farm.

After her internship, Sue was hired by the State Historical Society, working at Stonefield village in Cassville. She was the first curator they ever hired and she wore many hats, including curator of interpretation, special

events coordinator, curator of collections, volunteer coordinator, and she helped developed educational programs.

After leaving there, Sue went on to work at Devil's Lake State Park in charge of visitor services. After 7 years, she returned to school and received a degree in legal transcription and went to work as a legal secretary at Cross, Jenks, Mercer and Maffei. She has been with the firm for almost 10 years.

Sue has served on the Sauk County Historical Society Board of Directors for the past three years.

Sue’s husband is a manager of the Baraboo Pizza Hut Restaurants. They have two daughters: Lizzie who is 9 and Claire, 3.

Sunken History of Lake Delton Exposed

By Paul Wolter

THe draining of Lake Delton on June 9 is an event that will be remembered in future history books. While the event was certainly a tragedy, the draining of the lake exposed some of Lake Delton’s fascinating history. Long before Dell Creek was dammed to form a recreational lake, it was dammed for industrial uses. This summer the remains of the Sarrington Mill dam were exposed on the main Dell Creek channel just downstream from the public boat launch at Canyon Road. A dam and mill graced the site beginning sometime in the 1850s. Henry Christian Sarrington purchased the Delton mill in 1882, and was the first of four generations of Sarringtons at the mill. Sarrington was born at Kettering, Northhampton, england, in 1835, and migrated to Delton in 1867. He immediately went to work at the mill he later purchased. in its hey-day, the Sarrington mill shipped countless carloads of pancake flour out of Kilbourn. The Universal

Grocery chain, later part of the Kroger system, was one of its biggest contractors.

The dam went out three times through floodwaters and the old wooden mill burned down in 1920. it was replaced with a stone structure in 1924. A few years later W. J. Newman bought the property and tore out most of the Sarrington dam in preparation for the build-ing of Lake Delton. The dam for the lake was then built downstream of the old Sarrington site. The Sarringtons then switched their milling operations from water to elec-tric power and continued to grind grain and flour until about 1969. The remains of the Sarrington dam show that its construction was of logs laid in courses perpendicu-lar to one another. This was similar to the construction of the dam at the Timme Mill upstream, which formed Mirror Lake.

The remains of the Sarrington Mill dam were once again exposed this summer after the draining of Lake Delton. The remnants show that the dam was created by criss-crossing logs much like those shown in this historic picture of the Mirror Lake Dam, right.

November/December 2008

The Sauk County Historical Society

P.O. Box 651

531 Fourth Avenue

Baraboo, Wi 53913

New & Renewed Members

THANk yOu TO THESE MEMBERS WHO HAVE RENEWED SiNCE OuR LAST NEWSLETTER

vAN ORDeN CiRCLe

Nancy Lange and Pedro Kuczynski, Reedsburg, Wi

BeNeFACTOR

Lucas S van Orden iv and Nadia vandergaast, iowa City, iA

SPONSOR

Dave and Diane Pietenpol, Green Bay, Wi

Robert and Rosa Fleming, Baraboo, Wi

Mike and Sue Johnson, Wisconsin Dells, Wi

Joan Fordham, Baraboo, Wi

Clyde and Carolyn Moon, Baraboo, Wi

Glen and Mary Schulz, Baraboo, Wi

FRieND

John and Jane Geoghagen, Baraboo, Wi

David & Marcia Swanson, Baraboo, Wi

Fred and Anita Dahlinger, Baraboo, Wi

T J & Susan Schuebel, Baraboo, Wi

John and Ann Burton, Baraboo, Wi

Garry and Gale Bahe, Merrimac, Wi

Phillip and Alonna Pointon, Baraboo, Wi

Dennis & Kathleen Thurow, Baraboo, Wi

Maxine Triff, Madison, Wi

Gary and Pam Cummings, Baraboo, Wi

Jim and Gladys Getschman, Baraboo, Wi

FAMiLy

ethan and Mae -Sallee Beals, Shoreline, WA, Harland & Darleen Bechmann, Baraboo, Wi

Helfried Moh, Baraboo, Wi

Jerry and Alice Kindschi, Prairie du Sac, Wi

Bernard and Diana Long, Waunakee, Wi

Craig and Mim Olsen, Baraboo, Wi

John and Tonia young, Baraboo, Wi

Brett and Susan Topham, Baraboo, Wi

Paul & Nichelle Martin, Baraboo, Wi

virgil, Cheryl and vi erlandson, Hagerstown, MD

Dick and Annette Baker, Reedsburg, Wi

Roger LaMasney, Baraboo, Wi

Gene and Karen Beth, Rock Springs, Wi

Jeanne and James Jessie, Norco, CA,

Aliceson and Hal Rubel, Cary, iL

Andre and Aimee Krainik, Appleton, Wi

Bea and Roman Statz, Baraboo, Wi

Ben and Joan Hilmer, Roscoe, iL

Judy Siebecker Cantu, New Meadows, iD, Fran and Nick Kelly, Baraboo, Wi

David and Carrie Apker, Oconomowoc, Wi

Charles and Mary Warn, Reedsburg, Wi

iNDiviDUAL

Dolores Ribbke Barker, Holmen, Wi

William J Cronon, Madison, Wi

Sylvia epstein, Middleton, Wi

Susan Fathauer, Phoenix, AZ,

Nancy Gomez, Del Rio, Tx,

Tom McCarthy, Traverse City, Mi, Ruth Woods, Alexandria, vA,

Marlene Meyer, Prairie du Sac, Wi

Patrick Dewall, Appleton, Wi

Janet Dewall, Appleton, Wi

Phyllis Miller, Reedsburg, Wi

vera Dwars, Baraboo, Wi

Sarah Poker, Apple valley, MN, Bernice Ringelstetter, Sun Prairie, Wi

Nancy M Prine, Madison, Wi

Carolyn Wafle-Guenther, La Honda, CA, Dolores Bahr, Prairie du Sac, Wi

Deanna Schulz, Baraboo, Wi

Connie Blau, Waunakee, Wi

Mary Bernau, Milwaukee, Wi

Robert J Mitchell, Milwaukee, Wi

Rae Marilyn Booth, San Jose, CA,

Bob Foote, Baraboo, Wi

Joan Kaul, Baraboo, Wi

eleanor Normington, Reedsburg, Wi

Sam Jenswold, Fox Lake, Wi

Jerome Morrow, Baraboo, Wi

Duane Baker, Lake Bluff, iL

Jeanette Goeden, Wind Lake, Wi

Bonnie Berning Holmer, vicksburg, Mi,

Linda Meadowcraft, Baraboo, Wi

James Scherz, Madison, Wi

Susan K Meyer, Oshkosh, Wi

Michelle St Germain, Bloomingdale, iL

Tim McGee, Sauk City, Wi