The library has glass negatives of the McConnell family photos in File Cabinet 6.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> Photo print in cardboard frame
]]>
Few of the buildings in this picture remain on the north side of Washington St. witht exception of the large white building at the intersection with Wheeler St. It was a funeral home and is now a dentist's office. Also remaining is the apartment building at the far eastern end.

All of the Woodstock Die Casting (Eltra, Autolite etc.) buildings have been demolished.

The original Clay Street School building is visible behind the current school. El Niagra (120 First St.) looks just about the same except in 1950 it was Tony's Lunchroom and Skow Grocery.

Kristensen's Service Station was at 135 Washington (now belongs to St Mary Parish). According to the 1950 City Directory, the Dairy Queen is already there, so this photo may pre-date 1950. There is no DQ listed in the 1948 city directory.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1921-1950 notebook]]>
Notable buildings now demolished include the First Baptist Church at the intersection of Throop and W. Jackson, houses and gas stations along Throop street, houses on W. Jackson and Tryon where BMO Harris bank and parking lots are now, houses on Dean Street between the Opera House and South Street where the city hall parking lot is now located. Also the Odd Fellows building on W. Jackson was torn down for the bank expansion.
City Hall/Central School at 121 W. Calhoun was being used as the McHenry County Courthouse Annex. The building did not have the fire house addition but had a larger parking lot.
The movie theater was smaller with a narrow store building and the Main Street parking lot, now covered by Woodstock Classic Cinemas.

Oddfellows]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1921-1950 notebook]]>
The article in the incorrectly dated November 7, 1918 Woodstock Sentinel tells the story of the spontaneous celebration when the news of the Armistice in Europe was announced on November 11, 1918. These 5 photos, taken from a window on Cass street and showing Benton street and the corner of Square park, show the parade that is described in the article:

The Woodstock Sentinel

VOLUME SIXTY-THREE WOODSTOCK, McHENRY COUNTY ILLINOIS, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7*, 1918 NUMBER NINETEEN

WOODSTOCK GOES WILD WITH JOY

WHISTLES BLOW, BANDS PLAY, CROWDS CARRY FLAGS, PARADE WHEN PEACE NEWS COMES GERMANY SIGNS ALLIES’ TERMS

German peace envoys enter Allies’ line under white flag

At the time of going: to press (6 o’clock) it was still impossible to positively verify the report of Germany's capitulation. Reliable sources of information only say, “Nothing official.’’
According to reports received from various sources this afternoon the great world war came to an end today. At noon German armistice envoys had entered the French lines under a flag of truce and had accepted all of the terms laid down by Marshal Foch, the chief representative of the Allies. The four German delegates, two representing the army and two the navy, crossed the German border, passing along a road designated by Marshal Foch in wireless instructions to the German command.
Information as to the details of this most happy ending of the stupendous conflict which has rocked the world for four years past has been slow in coming through. In fact, the authenticity of the entire report has been difficult to establish.
The wires were burning up with the glad tidings that Germany had accepted terms of the Allies for an armistice, shortly after noon today. Although the messages seemed to come from a good source, people shook their heads in doubt, seemingly afraid that there was some mistake and fearing the terrible disappointment which would follow a demonstration or celebration of the big event which the whole world has hoped for, prayed for and a large proportion has fought for.
After waiting a few minutes for more news their enthusiasm became boundless and as the time flew by, work ceased in the shops, the whistles were turned loose and the members of the hand ran for their instruments. The crowds kept gaining in number until the streets of Woodstock looked like State street in Chicago on an exceptionally busy day.
Noise of every available kind could be heard, men, women and children yelling with all their might. Parades were organized and everyone seemed to have found an American flag somewhere.
The pupils in the schools soon became unmanageable and were told to put away their books and join in the celebration.
The Sentinel was just making everything ready to go to press when the news came in, the forms were remodeled and not desiring to hold up the joyful report from the public longer than to be sure of its authenticity, we are giving but a brief account of the doings in old Woodstock on this glorious gala day.


WOODSTOCK CELEBRATES

(Continued from Page 1) Phone bells began to jingle and the glad tidings were spread that the armistice had been signed.
Quickly donning street clothes, not even stopping to think of breakfast, they made their way to the down­town district to join in celebrating the great dawn of peace. Grabbing anything that would make a noise, they started the grand march through the streets of the city. Like the pro­verbial snowball, every move meant an addition to the ranks and by the time daylight broke through the east­ern horizon a small army was gather­ed together.
The Weldon band was soon on the job to assist and at a few minutes past 7 o’clock on that never to be for­gotten morning of the 11th of Novem­ber, 1918. Woodstock was witnessing and joining in the celebration of the birth of a real world democracy. The people gave full vent to their enthus­iasm this time because they knew there was]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1900-1920 notebook plus an oversize sheet in the oversize box with four photos]]> He stands to the left of his door while his son Garry Austin holds the door handle. The gentleman with the basket of bread is Frank W. Doton who had a baker's shop on Benton street. One of the other two men is identified Wm (Billy) Oliver or Woliver on the back of the photo.
In 1885, Austin installed a new awning.
Train cars are stopped on the tracks crossing Church Street.
Looking north along Main Street, C. Beardsley and Son Livery sign is visible. There is a good view of the pre-1912 railroad depot. The telephone pole shows that the photo was taken after 1883.
There are four brick buildings on the east side of Main Street, so the photo was taken after the fire of January,1892
This photo was used in both Woodstock Illustrated (1895) and Headlight: Sights and Scenes Along the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad (1898) advertising Woodstock.

112 Cass see also Photo ID 53 Kendall Block

Nancy Baker's notes: The 24’ by 65’ Kendall Block was completed in December of 1883. Dr. C.N. Kendall had his dentist’s office and living quarters on the second floor. Beneath Kendall’s office, on the first floor, was the B.S. Austin grocery store—a fixture at this corner for 30 years. Austin was assisted by his son and several other clerks and they delivered groceries throughout the City. Bart Austin was locally famous for his annual fireworks display on July 4th. The tradition began in 1881 and was still being reported in 1897.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Original photo missing and was dated incorrectly in the Sesquicentennial Photo Exhibit in 2002.]]>
These buildings on the west side of Main Street have been demolished for Woodstock Theatre.

217 Main Street: Schuett and Schaff Dealers in Farm Machinery, Carriages, Gasoline Engines This was the site of the J. D. Donovan farm implement business. He sold the business in 1902 to Schuett and Schaff due to ill health. The new owners continued with the farm implements (note the McCormick Harvesting Machines sign on the front of the awning) and added Buick to the line up. In 1908, C. E. Beardsley had taken over the business, calling it Beardsley & Son Auto Livery, but did not change the faded sign. The 1914 City Directory listing is Woodstock Implement Company. The building was demolished some time after 1932 and was the location of the parking lot next to the movie theater for many years.

223 Main Street: The Republican (newspaper) * Job Printing. The McHenry County Democrat (1877-1902) became the McHenry County Republican (1902-1905) and just plain Republican (1906-1918) when it was purchased by the Woodstock Sentinel.

The date of this photo was misidentified as 1904 in the Sesquicentennial photo exhibit.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1900-1920 notebook. There are two original cardboard copies, one "loaned by Woodstock Journal," and a print donated by Stephens in 1994]]> Six identical white Buick Model 10 Runabouts (1908-1910) and one dark Buick Model C (from 1905) are lined up in front of 217 Main Street. Names listed on the back of the photo include: Frank Wattles, Clarke Thorne, Ray Beardsley, Bob Sharp, Fred and Miss Schuett, Bill Averill, Earl Bower, C. E. Beardsley, Matt Conrad, John Rowe and George Conn, Jr.
It is difficult to assign street numbers, but using numbers from the 1914 City Directory
209 Main Restaurant
211 Main Boots & Shoes (note the boot hanging over the awning)
213 Main Wm. Whitson Hardware
217 Main Street: Schuett and Schaff Dealers in Farm Machinery, Carriages, Gasoline Engines This was the site of the J. D. Donovan farm implement business. He sold the business in 1902 to Schuett and Schaff due to ill health. The new owners continued with the farm implements (note the McCormick Harvesting Machines sign on the front of the awning) and added Buick to the line up. In 1908, C. E. Beardsley had taken over the business, calling it Beardsley & Son Auto Livery, but did not change the faded sign. The 1914 City Directory listing is Woodstock Implement Company. The building was demolished some time after 1932 and was the location of the parking lot next to the movie theater for many years.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Original filed in the oversized box, a print is in the Square and Surrounding Areas 1900-1930 notebook]]> Botts first appears in the 1948 City Directory
Photo shows water tower and standpipe
Could be dated by the automobile and truck in front]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1921-1950 notebook]]> Early morning sunlight casts shadows of nearly leafless branches on the buildings.
The front entrance has a wood entrance that juts out half way up the larger entranceway with paned windows filling the upper space. The Sheriff's House has awnings on the windows. There is no connector structure between the two buildings.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Oversize Box]]> In September, 1884 Dacy removed the windmill tower and by 1886 Dacy's new building (220 N. Benton) was progressing.
222 Church Street
220 N. Jefferson Street
220 N. Benton Street
Wagons, tire rims, Johnston Reapers sign
windmill
frame warehouse with stone foundation
"Large sales and small ?, Carriages a specialty"]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square & Main St to 1900 notebook]]>
This photo is labeled "Sight [sic] of Dacy Lumber-corner Church and Jefferson about 1920s" while the sign for the Sesquicentennial Photo Exhibit dated it as 1921.
Signs on the building include Lehigh Cement, Rex Funtkote Asphault Shingles and Roofing and Cornell Wood Board Walls Ceilings Partitions.

There is a wooden shed, a storage bin with shovel which indicates that it might contain coal and an automobile parked on the street.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1921 to 1950 notebook]]> John Medlar came to Woodstock in 1856; his studio was on the third story of the Hoy Block
Back of photo says "before Civil War"
"The first building from the left is the old Exchange Hotel, which stood where the Murphy block [1937] is now located. [100 N. Benton] This includes the First National Bank, Koblentz, Thorne & Son and Newman stores. Next to, across the street from the Exchange hotel was the old "Rathole" building, where some of the county offices were located before the courthouse was built. The State Bank [101 S. Benton] is now located on this site. The buildings beyond included various lines of business. This block was destroyed by fire much more recently. The above picture was taken by the late John S. Medlar from his studio on the third floor of the Hoy block. It is probably on a Saturday afternoon, when there were many farmers in town. These were the real horse and buggy days, with all the problems of alternating dust and mud which went along.
The first private dwelling erected in the place was the east part of the Exchange hotel [Wdstk Sentinel 3-13-1937 sec3 pg 1]"
"Baptists...A house of worship was erected in 1858, but in the building of it the society was heavily involved in debt. The edifice after a few years passed out of their hands, being sold to the Methodists, who in turn sold it a Universalist society, now defunct, and after doing duty for a time as an armory, it finally came into the possession of the German Lutherans. This church stood opposite the southeast corner of the public square, and was destroyed by fire in 1893. [Woodstock Illustrated 1895, p11 online]"
Job Printing: Woodstock Sentinel began publishing in July 1856]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square and Main Street to 1900 notebook. Also a copy in Oversized Photos box]]> 116 N. Benton: G. Blakeslee
114 N. Benton: Hardware & Stoves
112 and 110 N. Benton
108 N. Benton: Boots and the man on the awning
Awnings were often wooden and not strong enough to withstand heavy snow, so had to be shoveled
Photo taken from Medlar's window from Cass street]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Original in Oversized Photos box. Print from scan in Square & Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> Edgetown Motors automobile dealership was located at the intersection of Route 14 (now Lake Avenue) and Route 47. The signs outside and inside are all for Hudson automobiles. Edgetown became a Studebaker dealer around 1950. Note the great neon signs.
The side view photo shows gas pumps and an unidentified car.
The interior "Hudson Jet" photo was taken around 1953 since that model was only available in 1953 and 1954. The men in the photo L-R: Bob Mather, Ralph Kearney, four obscured faces, Dixie O'Hara, Paul Knuth, Al Klemme, Dave Joslyn, Doc. L. L. Metcalf. The Autolite logo on the back wall would seem to indicate that there were Autolite products (chrome) on the Hudson Jet.
The building was demolished in 1994.
The dealership was half-owned by Ralph Kearney and a book by his son is in the Local History Collection.
Author Kearney, Raymond Francis.
Title Edgetown / Raymond Francis Kearney.
Publisher Edward's Inn, MN : Gladstone Abbey Press, 2010
REFERENCE 977.322 KEA

The dealership was purchased by Ray Benoy and was demolished in 1974.

Currently (2016) site of O'Reilly Auto Parts]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1951-1969 notebook]]>
Woman seated in a buggy driving a horse and three men & a boy look on. The dirt street is lower than the sidewalk and the support material is visible.

Dated between 1873 (year after the fire) and 1884.

The horse's head moved during the long exposure photograph so that the words Books & Stationery are readable.

Awnings appear to be the same as in the "Great Snowstorm of March 12, 1881" photo.

Buildings and details are the same as the Baseball Team 1884 photo (presuming the 1884 date on the photo is correct).]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square and Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> Photo shows original wood doors and the Fire Department lettering over the doors as well as the original portico and lights.
Woodstock's Volunteer Fire Department With Some of Its Equipment [PHOTO] FRONT ROW—Left to right: S. J. Ogle, Claire Floyd, Dell Olmstead, Willard Sherman, A. W. Geister (chief) Robert Vieregg, Charles Zoia, Ray Horick, Raul Eickhoff, Ray Beardsley, Leo Dittman. REAR ROW: P. B. Anderson, T. B. Merwin, Walter Mengs, Karl Fritz, Charles Asmus. Absent when picture was taken: Cyrus Sanford, P. E, Conway, Lynn Stone, Robert Leidig. [Woodstock Sentinel 3-13-1937 Sec 9 p7]
121 W. Van Buren Woodstock Opera House
125 W. Van Buren brick building torn down for Opera House Annex and Stage Left Café. The building was owned by Chester Gould for a time.
In the 1914 City Directory it is listed as a blacksmith's shop with it's owner Chauncy Hill. Note the HILL in the brick. Chauncy W. Hill was born Sept. 4, 1858 in Oakland and died Dec 21, 1938. He came to Woodstock in 1888 [Woodstock Journal]. In 1992, it was used in the movie Groundhog Day as the candy shop. It had been empty and was in bad condition.
127 W. Van Buren: In the 1914 City Directory is is listed as the Western United Gas & Electric Company.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Photo print]]> The Fire Department moved to the current city hall in 1973, once again to the back side which faces South Streeet. When they vacated the area, the space was used for rehearsal rooms for the Opera House.
Note the neon Fire Department sign and the lights between the doors.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Photo Print]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Photo print]]>
Amcore Bank scans (in History Photos) include a photo of this interior before the pictures are hung.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1921-1950 notebook]]> 222 Church Street
The architecture is classic Greek Revival in style with the heavy pediment under the gable roof and pillars surrounding the front door.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square & Main St to 1900 notebook]]>
The winter of 1881 was one of the worst on record in the 1800s, and was the subject of Laura Ingalls Wilder's The Long Winter.

Woodstock Sentinel – March 24, 1881
A movement was set on foot in the village of Greenwood, last Monday morning to shovel out the road between that village and Woodstock. Two or three teams and as many more men started out from the village, in the good work, and as they worked through, pressed into the service as many men and teams as they possibly could. The first of the squad started from Greenwood about 8:30 a.m., and about 12:30, this corps of engineers bore down on our city thirty-five strong, supported by eight or ten teams and passed in grand review by the Sentinel office, the procession headed by thirty sturdy shovelers in double rank, with scoops at shoulder arms. As might be expected, upon entering the square, the company were bent on forage, and they marched directly to the South Side restaurant which was raided for all that was in it, at the regular rates. After the wants of the inner man had been supplied, they formed in front of Medlar’s for a picture of the entire company, and John says he secured a good one, so that if any of the people living in the east part of the county wants to know who the men are that engaged in the good work of shoveling out the Greenwood road, they can find them all at Medlar’s. The course of our Greenwood citizens is commendable and their example worthy the emulation of others.


Benton Street both north and south of E. Jackson
Murphy Block [100-108 N. Benton] In the 1880s, the Murphy Block was often referred to as the Opera House Block because they used the 3rd floor for various performances. Also referred to as The National Block and the 3rd floor hall was National Hall, Murphy’s Hall, the Opera House. Nancy Baker information.
100 N. Benton ? Dentist
102 N. Benton E. A. Murphy & Co. [Dry Goods in 1877 Directory]
104 N. Benton M. Sherman Jewelry (note men in window and large watch sign)
106 N. Benton
108 N. Benton C. F. Thorne (no sign visible)
110 N. Benton
112 N. Benton E. E. Stone Drug Store
South Benton:
101 S. Benton: "Rathole" D. T. Ring Shoes & Boots
Jefferson Street in background: German Lutheran Church
Man holding Kelly Barbed Wire sign
Men with shovels, horses and buggies]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> Kirk Dawdy]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square and Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> Hicksgas was founded by Harold Hicks in 1946. This photo was taken during the same time frame as the others at this intersection, so could be as late as 1953. In addition to the propane tanks, appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, water heater and space heater are visible]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Photos 1921-1950 notebook]]> The fountain was removed every winter and a cover was placed over the spot. When the fountain was returned to it’s location it was considered a sure sign that spring had arrived.
The fountain was located where the soldier monument is currently located. It was replaced by the soldier monument in 1909 and later melted for scrap during WWII.
Buildings on the south east side are partially visible.
Fences are a single wide board rather than the three-board fences from 1858.
Wooden sidewalks frame the fountain but it is not possible to tell if the diagonal sidewalks have been added.
Iron posts and chains surround the fountain.
Good view of clothing and hats on children and adults sitting on plain wood benches or standing.
A team of horses hauling a wagon is entering from Dean street.
]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square & Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> Corner of Jefferson and E. Jackson]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Print on cardboard frame]]>
"Donnelly Has Opposition
In 1903 when Judge C. H. Donnelly's first term as Circuit Judge was at a close and he was a candidate for reelection, an active campaign started in opposition, which was fostered by a number of the most prominent members of the McHenry County Bar. As a sidelight this opposition led to the purchase of a newspaper property, which the Donnelly opposition planned to use in their campaign against him. In the end Donnelly was re-elected and most of those who opposed him came back into line as his friends. Throughout his long career on the bench Judge Donnelly frequently had opposition, particularly among the lawyers, but he was always strong with the people and as a popular vote getter he had no equal." [Woodstock Sentinel 3-13-1937 Sec 9 p10]]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Opera House binder box]]> Built in 1883 by Dr. Cassinus N. Kendall dentist, the building was specifically designed to house B. S. Austin's grocery store (see photo ID 62). Austin changed the awning in 1885. Kendall died May 9, 1893.
Two frame buildings, one on Cass and one on Main Street, are visible.
The Main Street side view shows the steep angle of the street as well as the windows and roof on the east side.

Notes from Nancy Baker: The 24’ by 65’ Kendall Block was completed in December of 1883. Dr. C.N. Kendall had his dentist’s office and living quarters on the second floor. In his office, Kendall had a Cereus plant that was quite newsworthy. The night –blooming Cereus is a desert plant that looks almost dead for most of the year, but for one midsummer’s night, an exquisitely scented, large waxy white flower opens. This attracted many visitors to Kendall’s office. In 1888, a newspaper advertised that Kendall was also the agent for the Clark Cycle Company. Kendall died suddenly in 1893 at the age of 54. He had been in good health and had attended a meeting at city hall shortly before his death.

Beneath Kendall’s office, on the first floor, was the B.S. Austin grocery store—a fixture at this corner for 30 years. Austin was assisted by his son and several other clerks and they delivered groceries throughout the City. Bart Austin was locally famous for his annual fireworks display on July 4th. The tradition began in 1881 and was still being reported in 1897.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square and Main Street to 1900 notebook; original photo missing 7/2016]]>
Without a doubt it is a law office with law books on book shelves on two sides of the room. The ceiling light appears to be a gas lamp. Woodstock was not electrified until 1897.

There are numerous house plants in pots on the window sills and on a table. "Parlor plants" became popular in Victorian times since that architecture provided lots of interior light from many windows. The room does seem to have another window in the lower left that is streaming light on the table and floor.

The photo is too blurry to determine whether the left window has a tree outside or if this is a floral design on a sheer curtain. The right window might have a bird cage inside or it might be something outside like an elecric pole.

There is not enough information to identify this as the Joslyn law office.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 9
In Keefe historical photos (copies and originals)]]>
Craig Pfannkuche, Archivist, C&NW Historical Society.

Modelle Medlar McCoy always identified this photo, taken by her grandfather J. S. Medlar, as one of the earliest train engines in Woodstock.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 9
In Keefe historical photos (copies and originals)]]>
Labelled as looking east toward the fairgrounds by Modelle Medlar McCoy for the Sesquicentennial photo exhibit in 2002, she dated it in 1885. Jim Keefe slide identified it as 1890

Still trying to verify that the three-gabled building in the distance is the original fair building that was destroyed by fire in 1922.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> ]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square and surrounding area 1850-1900 notebook.]]> 101 S. Benton Rathole, Boardwell's Meat Market, Barber Shop
100 N. Benton First National Bank, C. N. Kendall Dentist
102 N. Benton
104 N. Benton M. Sherman Jewelers
106 N. Benton
108 N. Benton
110 N. Benton Joslyn Building
301 Clay F.W. Buell Flour and Feed
100 Cass Hoy Block]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Oversized photos box]]> The 1887 Directory of McHenry County says that it was built in 1856.
This original Waverly House was destroyed by fire February 1, 1892. The fire that began in the hotel engulfed the entire east side of Main Street except two brick buildings near the north end. It was a popular ongoing business and was soon rebuilt.
W. H. "Harry Hobbs was the last manager [note on back of photo]
In 1900, the building that houses the current Waverly House, 214 Main Street, became the Slavin & Merwin Furniture and Undertaking, followed by Merwin Furniture well into the 1950s. In 2002 it was Waverly House and Main Street Antiques.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In oversized photo box]]> Side view of 202 W. South William B. Class house]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Photo on paper - Excellent Condition]]> Pipe organ
Gas light chandelier

Date clues: Leila Brooks Hockey was born April, 1884
Her hat is older than the hats in the Methodist cornerstone laying photo
William H. Robinson was born in 1868]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
Photo on cardboard - Excellent Condition]]> The building was constructed in 1847 to provide space for additional offices for the county courthouse needed due to growth of the county. Henry M. Wait got the bid to build an "eight-foot brick building" but determining that this was too small, convinced the county commissioners to allow him to add a second story at his own expense. Because it was to be used to house county records, the thick brick walls were topped by a tin roof to reduce the chance of fire. According to the 1885 History of McHenry County, in the winter of 1848 a strong wind lifted the tin roof and carried it some distance away. The county officials, in the building at the time, naturally rushed out "in all possible haste. As they came forth they were greeted with a derisive shout and laughter from Henry Petrie, a merchant who exclaimed in great glee 'See the D--d rats crawl out of their holes!' Petrie was a Whig of very pronounced opinions and had no sympathy with the Democratic Party to which the county officers belonged." The building was known as the Rat Hole from then on, even in official records. When the Courthouse was finished in 1857 the Rat Hole became a saloon
Shown in this photo:
D. T. Ring Boots & Shoes. 1877 Directory lists D. T. Ring, shoemaker, residence Chemung St. Back of photo says D. T. Ring is standing on stairs between his two signs.
F. Marcus, Agt. is shown standing in front by barrels wearing apron: "Mr. and Mrs. Fred Markus were Germans who came to Woodstock in the years following the Civil war. We have no records stating the exact date. Mr. Markus was in the saloon business in the building called the "Rathole," on the corner where the State Bank is now located. One of his best known products, which had a wide favorable reputation, was the famous 'Markus' Bitters." Mr. and Mrs. Markus lived in a modest home located on Calhoun street where Elmer Carlson's second hand store now is. They were great lovers of flowers and during the summer their entire front yard, was a complete garden show of beautiful blossoms. The house was well back from the street and there was no room for lawn as the entire front yard was filled with beds of flowers of the Markus' own planting and cultivation. Mr. Markus was an early riser and spent hours and hours among the flowers he loved so dearly. In those "horse and buggy" days the average family "took a walk" on Sunday, and the route of the family parade almost invariably led past the Markus home, where friends would stop for awhile to chat and admire the beauty of the natural display. Mr. Markus was very public spirited in many ways and took a prominent part in local affairs. In 1893 the block burned where the Markus business was located. Following this disaster Mr. and Mrs. Markus moved to Chicago, where they spent their declining years in retirement." [Woodstock Sentinel 3-13-1937 Sec. 8 p2] However, the 1872 atlas lists Frederick Marcus saloonkeeper came to County in 1861. According to the McHenry County Democrat 12-19-1885, he died in December, 1885 (latest possible date for this photo) and many locals traveled to Chicago for the funeral.
Back of photo also identifies Henry Schneider (Schreider?) as the bearded gentleman in the middle
Phil. Best's Milwaukee Wis. Brewing Co.: dates between 1859 (Philip Best takes over the brewery after his father Jacob's death) and March 12, 1889 when the company became Pabst Brewing Company
Old Settler's Headquarters: The Old Settler's Association was started in 1868 and there is a listing for the Old Settlers Parade in June, 1878 in the Notes for Sesquicentennial History.
Bordwell's Meat Market: G. W. Bordwell is listed in the 1885 McHenry County history as are Dan T. Ring and Fred Markus. Bordwell's Market was taken over by C. F. Gaulke June, 1891.
The spire visible behind Bordwell's belongs to the German Lutheran Church on Jefferson St. built in 1858 and burned in the same fire as the Rat Hole on April 15, 1893

]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square & Main Street to 1900 notebook]]>
The school burned December, 1919.

Victorian architecture
Children's costumes
pump and trough

Also attached is a scan of the drawing of the Public School in the Combination Atlas Map of McHenry County, Illinois 1872]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

]]> In Square & Main Street to 1900 notebook
Original print, sepia tones]]> School children of various ages are seated in front of Central School (now City Hall) 121 W. Calhoun St.
A large number of the girls are dressed in white with white bows and some boys are dressed in black robes. Small children parade in front carrying stars on sticks while a woman plays the piano.
Flags are draped from the windows and some spectators sit in the open windows. One woman on the left is holding a May pole.
The audience of parents and siblings sit on chairs or in open cars at the back of the picture.
The date was first determined by the Illinois license plate number--six numbers were assigned from 1916 to 1922 and the car looks like a Dodge Brother Roadster of 1916 or 1917. The date on the right corner of the license looks more like a 7 than a 6. This allowed a search for an article in the newspaper:

Woodstock Sentinel June 5, 1917 p1

PUBLIC SCHOOL CHILDREN WILL GIVE PAGEANT

First Six Grades to Give Entertainment on School Grounds Friday

Mother Goose Characters By Little Tots

HOUSE THAT JACK BUILT

The first six grades of the Woodstock public schools will take part In a Mother Goose entertainment to be given on the high school lawn next Friday, June 8, at 3 p. m. "The House That Jack Built" is the title of the en­tertainment, it being an arrangement from the operetta for children as written by Riley and Gaynor.
"The House That Jack Built" will be in the nature of a pageant, the principal, or Mother Goose charact­ers, to be taken by the little people of the first and second grades. The children will be seated in bleachers to be raised on the school lawn, and the rest of the grounds will be ap­portioned in sections for spectators, seats to be arranged in the fore­ground for mothers of the children, and older people; back of that, inside the curbing, standing room, and last­ly outside the curb a parking place for automobiles. The street will be closed so that autos may be parked to front on the curb.
Miss Garnett, the popular and effi­cient supervisor of music in the pub­lic schools, is directing the pageant, which promises to be a novel and highly enjoyable entertainment. Out- of-door school entertainments are ex­ceedingly popular, and will be some­thing of an innovation in Woodstock, this being, we believe, the first of the kind ever to to given by the school children here.
The cast of characters follows:
Mother Goose Darlene Kennedy
Old King Cole John McConnell
Queen of Hearts Hazel Getchel
Knave of Hearts..... Joseph Bartell
Little Bo-Peep ......Vivian Erickson
Little Boy Blue.....Clarence Rogers
Little Tommy Tucker.....Albert Lee Jagers
Jack Spratt ....Raymond Sweetland
Mrs. Jack Spratt Hazel Thomas
Jack and Jill..... Carleton Billings, Margaret Stametz
Crooked Man James Brink
Old Woman Who Lived In a Shoe... Emma Nicolai
Little Miss Muffet,…..Dorothy Hokanson
Man All Tattered and Torn ....Haydwin Kiel
Maiden All Forlorn ... .Mary Doolittle
Priest All Shaven and Shorn......Irwin Brewer
Man In the Moon ….. Harley DeWolf
Pipe Bearer to Old King Cole …..Lawrence Francis
Bowl Bearer to Old King Cole...... Clifford Gregory
Fiddlers Three ....Donald McNamara, Elmer Hoag, Elmer Sonderberg
Three Crows.....Eugene McShane, Carl Zimmerman, Kenneth Krull
Fairies, Brownies, Blackbirds
May Pole Dance, Red, White and Blue, by Pupils of Miss Hallisey's Room
Large Chorus
There will be a chorus of 120 girls’ voices, from 4th, 5th, and 6th grades. Another feature of the entertainment will be the folk-dances.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Photos 1900-1920 notebook]]> The note also says that the old Gregory school was closer to Woodstock, the remains of which were by the entrance to Catalent, aka Automatic Liquid Packaging, aka Cardinal Health at 2200 Lake Shore Drive. Have not explored whether they are still visible.
The farmhouse in the photo is still there as of 2016.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Buildings (off Square) notebook
]]> Schulhof Wholesale Plumbing Supplies is on the same site as Olson's Jobbing House which was also a wholesale plumbing supply company and which was identified in the 1951 Sentinel Ad. Shulhof first appears in the 1958 City Directory but the library's copies of the 1954 and 1956 directories are missing.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY]]> Location - File Cabinet 6 Photos
Comments - In Photos 1951-1969 notebook]]>
The original photo is slightly blurry.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Photos 1921-1950 notebook]]> Background shows the McHenry County Courthouse as it was designed by John Van Osdol before the addition of the north and south wings.The copper crown on the cupola is clearly visible. Neill Donnelly's store sign says N. Donnelly's General Store on the second floor with a large DEMOCRAT (newspaper) sign near the roof. The trees on the square have grown since 1858 and the fence has a single rope or chain above the wide flat boards between the posts. The sidewalk on Cass is made of wood and there is a stiff overhang supported by heavy wire over the sidewalk.
100 Cass
101 N. Johnson
115 N. Johnson
Building visible on Throop street at the west end of Cass is identified as a dwelling in the 1885 Sandborn map]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Square & Main Street to 1900; original photo missing 7/2016]]> This photo of the south side of the square shows the Phoenix block that would be renamed as the Bunker Block after Bunker Brothers moved their grocery, hardware and crockery business there in 1872. Their previous building was destroyed by the October 8, 1871 fire that swept over the southwest corner of the square.
The public school, built in 1867 on South street, is visible in the right corner. An unidentified large white building is beyond the school, possibly the original Bunker Brothers building.
Woodstock House [111 E. Van Buren] existed between 1857 and 1872 but was purchased by Pratt in 1866 and was called Pratt House beginning ca 1868. We do not know when the sign was changed to Pratt House.
Union Printing Office [115-117 E. Van Buren] started in 1861
Blossom's Jewelry was located here [115-117 E. Van Buren] from 1868-1872 when they moved to 107 E. Van Buren.
The photo also shows activity in the Square park with people, carriages and animals at the south entrance on Dean Street. The sidewalks in the park are still the original straight cross with no diagonals visible.
Dean street has a line of trees in front of one big house and a large amount of open land shows in the upper center of the photo.

The Woodstock House.
This popular house, of which Mr. PATTY is the proprietor, has recently received an addition of some nineteen new rooms in an upward direction, culminating in a very neat and tastily finished observatory, from which may be had a very extensive view, in all directions, of the finest country that lies under the sun. Internally, the arrangements for the inner man are as perfect as the markets can afford, and to our certain knowledge, liberal applications have been made during the past season, to the Chicago market, for luxuries in advance of our sluggish climate. The host and hostess being both of the benevolent turn that delights in the consciousness that their guests are full fed and comfortable, any one may safely confide himself to their hospitality with the assurance that lie will come off in a most excellent state of preservation. Commend US to the tempting Breakfasts, Dinners and Suppers of the PATTY HOUSE, and besides that wo should judge by the smell that they have some very tasteful and kindly cigars.
(November 20, 1856 - Woodstock Sentinel)
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In Square and Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> The old brick South Side School burned Dec. 2 1919. Photo shows burned out shell. Central School (120 W. Calhoun St.) is visible in rear as well as a house no longer standing.

The school was erected in 1866, housing first through sixth grades when it burned (no kindergarten). It faced south between Throop & Dean streets. The fire was a total loss and many records were lost. Classes resumed the following week, with some children going to Central School and some attending in the vacant home of Perry Murphy, 207 W. Jackson.

Following the fire, the lot was used as a playground until an addition was built to City Hall which was used for the Fire Department, then the Police Department. ]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> Kirk Dawdy]]> In Photos 1900-1920 notebook
Print of photo]]> Allen Stebbins, Chair of the Woodstock Historic Preservation Commission, provided this insight to the tunnel (or "Culvert"):
"The South St. Culvert as it has been called was built in two
sections. The first in 1867 when the Chicago & Northwestern built a single rail line out this way and the second section 30 years later in 1897 when they expanded to a second line. That's why the two dates on the keystones. I've started collecting some historic records on this bridge.
"What's unusual is both sections were built in what's known as a helicoidal or spiral arch method. These arches are extremely rare in the United States built when a road or railroad crossed another road or river at an angle and at an incline. It posed some real problems for the engineers who looked back to the ancient Romans for ideas to solve the problem and rediscovered the spiral arch! Basically all the engineering up front needed to be pretty precise and once designed the stonemasons cut all the stones exactly the same dimensions then laid them in the spiral arch (oftentimes without the need of any mortar.) These types of arches are extremely strong and durable as witnessed by some of the ancient Roman examples still standing.
"In the United States there are only a few known examples–some in Pennsylvania and the Seventh Street Improvement Arches in Minneapolis. These are listed as landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places. The South St. Culvert is in the historic district and I would like to see it nominated as a national landmark, but do know Union Pacific opposes it. They do have plans in the future to expand the rail lines to three from Barrington all the way out to Harvard when they ultimately put in the Woodstock rail yard. ..."
The tunnel is architecturally and historically significant. The tunnel should be designated a Landmark by the City of Woodstock and preserved, as is the Woodstock Opera House.
Note the City's motto: "True to its past...confident of its future." Will The People prevail in the case of preserving the tunnel, or will the tunnel meet the same fate as Grace Hall?" [Woodstock Advocate blog, Gus Philpott]

This photo from Modelle Medlar McCoy was scanned for the Sesquicentennial 2002 library exhibit.
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In Photos 1900-1920 notebook]]> This photo is dated 1882 by Modelle McCoy (Medlar granddaughter and keeper of the negatives).
The iron fountain is visible in the center.
Diagonal wooden sidewalks are visible (need to see if they were built at the same time as the fountain).
The fences are single wide board with wire strung between posts rather than the three-board original fences from 1857.
From the Square Sesquicentennial 1994 history p.7:
The Spring House was built in 1873 as an "ornamental feature" of the park to shelter the mineral water pump that received water from the well located in the southeast corner of the park.
Designed and built by Cornelius Florentius Lemmers, its design was inspired by buildings at the centennial exposition in Philidelphia, Pennslvania.
"Every scroll and bracket upon it was wrought by hand," according to a letter from Chas. A. Lemmers in 1840 (sic). "While it stood there, it became the trysting place, not only for the people of the city and its visitors, but to the lovers of the city, who visited it for refreshment after much visiting and discussion on the seats of the park."
Victorians traveled by train from Chicago to drink the mineral waters, following nearly the same path that the Indians had walked to obtain its medicinal properties. The water contained bicarbonate of soda, lime, magnesia, and iron, as well as sulphurated hydrogen.
A study by Rush Medical College of Chicago in 1879 found the water to be mildly alkaline which was valuable in diseases of the stomach, bowels and kidneys. The water also contained iron.
The original Spring House stood until the 1930s. A replica was built in 1976 as a Bicentennial project by the Woodstock Business and Professional Women. The medicinal spring has been capped, but a water fountain was added to give the proper atmosphere.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Square & Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> View from Medlar Studio window at 100 Cass shows the Spring House and Square Park in the snow. Horses and wagons are tied up on the edge of the park on Benton Street. Although the snow covered trees mask the buildings on the south side of the square, the cupola on the Bunker Block (111 E. Van Buren) is faintly visible. It burned down and was removed in 1893. The Sherman Block with its crenelated tower, built in 1893, is also visible at 101 S. Benton.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Square and Main Street 1850-1900]]> Shows the street covered in snow with horses & buggies tied to the park fence. The Spring house is visible.
After 1899-Church Block (Woodstock Dry Goods)
Before 1904-C. F. Thorne became Thorne & Son
100 N. Benton-
102 N. Benton-Murphy and Mullen?
104 N. Benton
106 N. Benton - Post Office
108 N. Benton - C. F. Thorne clothing
110 N. Benton - Barber Shop (sign unreadable)
101 S. Benton - Sherman Jewelry (Sherman Block built 1893 with crenelated tower)
105 S. Benton
107 S. Benton
109 S. Benton
111 S. Benton
113 S. Benton-Woodstock Dry Goods
103 E. Van Buren (frame building)
103 E. Van Buren J. C. Choate; Job Printing on upper floor
105 E. Van Buren]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Square & Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> 100 N. Benton J. Kendall dentist (moved in 1883)
102 N. Benton
104 N. Benton E. W. Blossom Jewelry & Watches
106 N. Benton Sign for Phoenix on second floor
108 N. Benton
110 N. Benton Excelsior Market; Lager Beer Saloon entrance to basement
112 N. Benton G. F. Stone Drug Store
Edge of Thos. Whitson & Sons Hardware awning
Unidentifiable items on sidewalk in front of 102
Men posing in front of all the buildings
Shed behind the Rathole visible (E. Jackson St., later location of the Odd Fellows building)
Oddfellows]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Square & Main St. to 1900 notebook]]> After 1858 (square landscaped)
After 1866 (Baptist Church built on the northwest corner of Throop and W. Jackson. Note the tall spire) Now 101 N. Throop
Before 1868 (Cass Street extended to Throop Street. Compare to photo ID 32)
Before 1887 (Neill Donnelly's building torn down for Sheriff's House). 115 N. Johnson
Before 1928 (House labelled J. Donnelly, later the Misses Donnelly's Hat Shop, torn down for Montgomery Ward department store) 110 S. Johnson]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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In Square and Main Street to 1900 notebook]]> Sentinel [209 N. Benton]
Hoy Drugs and Medicines, Books and Stationery [100 Cass]
J. S. Medlar's Photograph Gallery [third floor 100 Cass]
Masonic Hall [100 Cass]
Building in the background on Benton is the F. W. Buell Flour and Feed Mill on Clay Street [301 Clay]
Square park in Winter
Wooden fence
Horses and buggies
Note how much bigger the trees are compared to the 1858 photo of the square & courthouse.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY]]> File Cabinet 6 Photos
In Square and Main Street to 1900 notebook. Also in Oversized Photos box.]]> Small boys pose beneath the sign. James Brink is the small boy on the fence in knee breeches and Alec Darryl is standing in front with knee breeches.
The fountain in the center of the square is visible and behind it another mourning arch was built on the opposite entrance on Dean Street.
The sidewalks are wood and show the beginnings of the diagonal walks. The fence has only one flat board between the upright posts.]]> Medlar Studios, Woodstock]]> NO COPYRIGHT - NON-COMMERCIAL USE ONLY

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