Notes for Sesquicentennial History of Woodstock, 1902-1911

Notes for Sesquicentennial History of Woodstock, 1902-1911

2002

en-US

Text

1902-1911
COMPILED BY LYNN NIELSEN 2002
COMPUTER FILE: HNOTES1902 9 NEWSPAPER PHOTOCOPIES 30 PAGES

1902- 1911
NOTES FOR HISTORICAL WOODSTOCK EVENTS COMPILED BY LYNN NIELSEN 2002 (Researcher's asides, comments & notes included.)
WOODSTOCK SENTINEL UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. 1902
Jan. 23 Post offices establishes 3 additional rural routes for a total of 4-service to begin Mar. 1. Jan. 30 Woodstock Dry Goods succeeds N. R. Buckley Co. in Church block. Mar. 6 "Three Lives Snuffed in a Fury of Passion". Huge story( for a couple of years to come.) Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Ellsworth and Amos W. Anderson were shot & killed at the Ellsworth home, corner of E. Washington & Madison ( Anderson was their boarder), son Earl runs to Hall & Eckert office and says Anderson shot his parents and then his father shot Anderson, police arrive & take Earl to jail ( eventually after some nifty detective work, Earl is forced to confess to the triple slaying and found guilty...amazing story).
Mar. 13 Mead & Charles - phone 41- "guaranteed to please in price, quality, quick delivery, and honest dealing"; Fancy peaches, apricots, apples, pears, nectarines 13 cents per lb.; Good eating potates 95 cents per bushel; 19 lbs. granulated cane sugar, $1.00; 10 lbs. rolled oats, 25 cents; 5 gallon gasoline 50 cents; 5 gallon kerosene 50 cents; Baker premium chocolate 18 cents; soda & oyster crackers 25 cents for 3 lbs.
Mar. 20 Monday last atty. D.R. Joslyn closed a deal with E.C.Wittenberg and E.G. Bodenschatz
for the erection of a building on Main St. and Benton St. just north of the J.P. Kimberly building
which will be a candy mfg. co. $4000. Also Woodstock to have "winning team of baseball
players" from Oliver Typewriter factory, first game May 17 ( O.T. won!)
April 3 "Promises for much work for carpenters & masons this season" - much land being
purchased & many plans being made for new houses and buildings "a crying demand for more
homes for the increasing population of this city". Also, "men of means are coming to see that no
more profitable investment for their money can be found than the erection of homes for renting."
(Madison, East, Grove, Dacy near St. Mary's). Also, N.W. line advertisng "Colonist one-way
tickets at very low rates" during March & April to the western states & Canada.
Apr. 10 "Hares Baked Alive" (ugh) at midnight between last Fri. & Sat. on E. Washington St. at
the Northwest Rabbitry a fire did great damage, and unfortunately killed many rabbits & .
"cavies". The "prompt work of the fire dept." did save the building, but the financial loss was
larger as some of the rabbits were very valuable types (from England) and as it was the beginning
of the breeding season, many babies were lost. Proprietor will repair/rebuild.
Apr. 24 Oliver Typewriter Band to make first appearance this sgason at Opera House in near
future. 35 musicians "playing a repertoire of strictly high-class music". To be the largest
(&"best") band ever appearing before the public in Woodstock.
May 1 Assessed valuation of property in Woodstock is $565,018.
May 8 "Fire Wipes Out Main Building of Woodstock Brewery: - 5:30 a.m. last Monday -origin unknown (Woodstock Brewing & Bottling Co.). City water main reaches only within about3000 feet of building and city only has about 2000 feet of hose, so unable to "thrown a stream onto the blaze". Also, the boiler in the brewery was cold so not possible to get water from that source

until steam was generated - at least an hour before any water could be put on the fire. Mayor Jewett called Harvard for help - they arrived 1 Vi hours later & connected their hose to Woodstock's, so water could finally be utilized, but main building ("malt house") already gone. Able to save nearby bottling house, ice house and stables. Loss estimate $70,000 with $32,000 insurance. Brewery had also supplied many homes with ice for a number of years. May 29 Earl Ellsworth charged with triple murder (from Mar. 6)
May 31 City has purchased a stone crusher to improve the roads; to be used in the gravel pit -will make method easier and be more economical.
June 12 Per City Council meeting - petition signed by owners of "dram shop" licenses to amend the existing ordinance so they can remain open on Saturdays only until 11 p.m. "Was declared lost" ayes 2, nays 4.
DEMOCRAT June 14 Coming Fourth of July: Patriotic music by Oliver Band- Dancing All Day & Night; Contests: Blueberry Pie Eating, Greased pig ("yours if you can catch it'); Fat Man's Race (200 lbs. or over); prizes generally $1 to $3.
June 26 "Woodstock The Metropolis of McHenry county" - population of 3027 per 1902 "school census" (a gain of 187 over 1901, which was "more than 300 greater than national census figure of 1900)
DEMOCRAT July 3 "An Electric Window" - Mead & Charles has "the first electric window display in Woodstock" consisting of" a number of small incandescent lights of several colors, and a moving wheel propelled by electricity, on which there were also several lights." Quite an attraction!
DEMOCRAT July 12 Ad for Hotel Woodstock "Wanted: Dishwasher - $4.00 per week." July 17 "County Personal Property Assessments" list published recently reveal "very few men in county whose wealth is represented by five figures" (although many who "approach that limit); Top 5 in Dorr: John J. Murphy $71,360; M.D. Hoy $65,445; J. Northrop estate $51,115; T. J. Dacy estate $44,460; A.B. McConnell estate $46,615. (17 listed in article). July 31 Woodstock Guards- Co. G of the Third regiment led by Capt. Geo. W. Field "added new laurels to their renown" while attending their summer camp at Springfield; "flattering praise" ("best drilled, best behaved") from Governor Yates who is commander-in-chief of state troops. August 16 to 29 Woodstock Sentinel publishes Daily Fair Editions
August 28 Woodstock is "a lively, hustling, aggressive city and there is no heading her off per the Sentinel. Last Sat. night a "gentleman with a counting machine" was sitting in front of Whitson's store and tallying people going to the Post Office - he counted 1500. (In Sept.25 newspaper this number was corrected to 1026 "to suit the Harvard Herald", though "just as many of more went to the P.O. from the other direction!"
Sept. 11 City Council minutes from Sept. 5: A committee from the Board of Education has asked for and been granted use of the council room to "accommodate the overflow of pupils from the public school" ( school just started last week!) ; room to be rented to school district. Sept. 18 Update to A. J. Olson's earlier proposal to "erect a milk factory in this city to cost $25,000" - prospects look good that he can secure 30 - 35000 lbs. of milk per day from local farmers and then locals won't have to ship their milk to Chicago; this will provide a "sure & safe market" and they won't be " obliged to make themselves poor buying cans". Factory would be west of Dingee Pickle Factory. Also, (small notice), Average cost of raising a bushel of corn in

Illinois 10 cents. "When can command 50 cents per bushel it is easy to see why good land readily sells for $100 plus per acre".
Sept 25 East show window of Hoy's Drug Store displays RX's written in past 30 years in their store - 67,000 (!!!) "What a lot of sickness and grief..." Also, Penny Mite Society to resume meeting "for another season" Oct 3. " worthy society is doing a noble philanthropic work..." Oct. 2 "Table Board" is $3.50 per week at Clute's restaurant ("under American Express Office in Bird building "). Also, Article describing how to use soft coal in hard coal furnaces, since hard coal "scarcity" this winter. Also, "Chicago mail order houses flooding the country hereabouts with circular and catalogues" so local merchants must take steps to "counteract the effects of this work". Also, Article praising A. F. Field for not gouging his customers for coal "in these times of grasping avarice and lack of regard the needs of others". (Good grief!) Oct. 9 The bandstand has been removed from the park " and thrown into a heap in the rear of City Hall where it will be cast into the fire". It had become rotted- probably to be rebuilt next season. Also, Special City Council meeting on Sep. 15 to hear public property committee's report re: drainage for Olson's proposed milk factory (See 9/18 article). Cost to the city for "tilling" the ditch $2000. Okay as long as Olson invests "not less than $15,000 in factory". Oct. 23 The barbers of Woodstock have adopted prices and hours as follows: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every night except Saturday. Haircuts 25 cents; Shave ten cents; Neck shave 5 cents; Shampoo 25 cents; Beard trim 15 cents; Hair Singeing 25 cents; Facial massage 25 cents; All tonics 10 cents; Haircut & beard trim 35 cents.
Nov. 20 Lengthy front page article (attached): "Many New Improvements- Woodstock's Wonderful Growth During the Past Year" - " Amt of improvements completed in past year and now under course of construction will foot up to almost $75,000."; Kellogg block- south of Square on Dean; Oliver Typewriter Office-in front of factory; Wittenberg 7 Bodenschatz candy factory on Main; T.J. Schroeder building on Benton. Plus many new residences described, also F. Arnold barn in east part of city "probably the finest of the kind in the state". Dec. 4 Evangelist W.A. Sunday, "closed in this city last Sunday evening one of the most successful revivals ever held in this vicinity"; lots of converts to Methodist Episcopal (M.E.) Church. Lengthy article about how important Woodstock's churches are to the economy, future, moral health, etc. of the city.
1903
Jan. 1 Many Woodstock merchants (Geo. Bunker, A.S. Wright, M.D. Hoy, M.N. Wien), along with D.F. Quinlan (county's first real estate broker) "agree wholeheartedly" that '02 was a banner year for the town, "most prosperous ever". "Far exceeds any previous year" "More real estate changed hands than in any one year in the history of the city", the •farms were prosperous, people were wanting and buying a better grade of goods, etc.
Jan 2 REPUBLICAN Most of the city's stores agree to shorten their house and begin closing at 8 p.m. (Doesn't mention how much later they had been open).
Jan 8 Per D.F. Quinlan (first R. E. broker) "3 good lots on First Street- $175 each". Farm acreage in and around Woodstock $40-$80 per acre.
Jan 22. Sentinel clarifies report from last week: Oliver Typewriter factory shut down for 3 days by management in response to a large number of "unskilled factory employees attempts to


unionize". When work resumed, a notice was posted; "workers could return as individuals-not as members of union". Per Woodstock Sentinel: "Citizens of Woodstock are justly proud of their factory and extremely jealous of any movement which may interfere with its successful operation"; currently manufacturing 75 typewriters per day. Also, "Stewart Steel Range will burn coal or wood - $36.85." A. Dwight Osborn. "Capital $25,000.00, 3% paid on time deposits" - McHenry County State Bank of Woodstock.
Jan. 29 Chicago Industrial Home for Children takes in Timothy Sullivan, a 5 year-old "drunkard and tobacco fiend" whose mother died and father abandoned him; he is described as a "victim of the evils of the paper cylinder and beer and whiskey" and a "study with respect to the effects of cigarettes and whiskey on the infant body and mind".
Feb. 6 REPUBLICAN City authorities approve an additional exit for City Hall/Opera House for
safety reasons; currently only one exit.
Feb. 19 Temperature is 15 degrees below zero.
Feb. 26 More farm sales reported in the past year then ever before in the county. "Prosperity these good Republican days among the tillers of the soil".
Mar. 5 At Opera House: "Just Struck Town" Jule Walters' Magnificent'Scenic Comedy-Drama" replete with "thrilling sensations and mechanical effect" 25 cents, 30 cents and 50 cents. Mar. 6 REPUBLICAN Borden's Condensed Milk Co. proposes to build factory in Woodstock. Mar. 12 Grip and measles are prevalent diseases in schools- class attendance drastically reduced; only 14 of 50 students in one of lower grades in class one day. Also, "Grade line is made for Oliver Typewriter factory expansion- 250' x 80' in size and will double present floor space- will be "absolutely fireproof - currently 500 employees; addition should provide capability to triple machine output. Also, New Postal Regulation from Washington - no post office boxes to be rentd to minors without parental permission, as they've been using them to "carry on correspondence" and keeping parents ignorant of their affairs. Mar. 19 More housing needed in Woodstock! - due to growth of Oliver Typewriter factory -now at 515 employees and adding more.
Apr. 17 REPUBLICAN Local attorney Frank Jackman's new Oldsmobile horseless carriage is called a "devil wagon"
May 1 REPUBLICAN Woodstock High School graduating class the "largest ever" with 15 students - all of the "female persuasion".
May 3 REPUBLICAN Woodstock Council of Knights of Columbus is istitued at Armory with 56
charter members, followed by sumptuous banquet at6 Murphy's Hall.
May 8 REPUBLICAN Woodstock to have 9 saloons in the coming year, City Council has
already issued licenses for 8 of them. Also, Four new houses under construction "just north of
city" are first to have brick foundations; " hardheads becoming scarce and expensive.
May & June Plans being proposed to begin securing " franchises and rights of way for electric
railway with "trolley cars" from Belvidere to Elgin by way of Woodstock; Westinghouse Electric
& Mfg. getting out estimate on contracts. ( Lots of mention about this over next months but I
don't think it came to pass.)
May 15 REPUBLICAN Fundraising plans are underway to raise $3000 to erect a "Women's Building" at Fairgrounds.
June 22 REPUBLICAN "Mass meeting" scheduled at City Hall to discuss urgent need for more


school rooms is cancelled as almost no one showed up. Paper says people are "apathetic" (vote later in August rejects new school.)
July 3 REPUBLICAN Cement sidewalks to be laid around city hall- contract let to Giertz & Son. July 10 REPUBLICAN Completion of rebuilt main receive portion of Squire Dingee Pickle Factory; company has flourished in Woodstock for many years and has been a "boon to farmers". July 24 REPUBLICAN Ordinance proposed at City Council meeting "to regulate the speed of automobiles and other horseless conveyances on public streets" within city limits. : July 31 REPUBLICAN Article urges citizens to make a proposal for someone to erect "sign boards at street intersections" (with the street names) since the city of Woodstock has grown to "metropolitan importance" and it's becoming increasingly difficult to give directions to visitors. Aug 1 REPUBLICAN New public baths (showers & tubs, hot & cold) opened in Kellogg's addition.
Aug. 7 REPUBLICAN Attorney Frank Jackman and 2 friends from Harvard arrive in town having driven all the way from Detroit, Michigan in a brand new Cadillac. Aug. 14 REPUBLICAN "Dog Days" of summer- city ordinance reminds folks dogs must be muzzled or city marshall allowed to shoot them. (The dogs, not the people) if found running loose and unmuzzled. :
Aug. 21 REPUBLICAN Ad for Yosemite bath powder - "This is the time of year to take your annual bath". (!!)
Aug. 26 REPUBLICAN Ad for Woodstock Dry Goods: New jackets or suits $7.50, $10.75, $15.00; Wool skirts $4.00 - $7.50; Last year's suits $6.00- $12.50.
Aug. 28 REPUBLICAN "Splendid County Fair" :new Manufactures Building and Women's Building"; department of antiquity and artistic butter designs. Sep. 4 REPUBLICAN School opens with 530 students enrolled.
Oct. 16 REPUBLICAN Judge Donnelly sends Earl Ellsworth to prison at joliet for life (after murder of his father back in Feb. 02)
Oct. 30 REPUBLICAN Dedication ceremoney and grand reception and dance ( $1.75 per couple) to honor new Oliver Typewriter addition - 800 in attendance. Nov. 13 REPUBLICAN Attorney C. P. Barnes, who has become quite and "enthusiastic automobilist" has made the trip in his red Rambler from Woodstock to Spring Grove -18 miles -in 46 minutes. 1 mile per 2 1/3 minutes.
Nov. 27 REPUBLICAN Ideal Restaurant on Main Street: Oysters in milk stew 25 cents; Roast
Beef sandwich 5 cents; Porterhouse Steak 40 cents; Liver & Bacon 25 cents; Pie 5 cents,
Tea/Coffee/milk/cocoa 5 cents; Ham Omelet 20 cents; Table Board per week $3.75.
Dec. 6 REPUBLICAN Coldest day in 33 years, 13 to 25 degrees below zero.
Dec. 25 REPUBLICAN Article states Woodstock population has-increased from 1500 in 1890 to
4000 in 1903.
1904
Jan. 7 Long article regarding Iroquois Theater Fire in Chicago last Dec. 30. 590 known to have perished - 2 from Woodstock, Mss Margaret Love & Alf Alfson.
Jan. 14 "Ladies to run Sentinel for one week" - local women will research and write all articles, arrange all ads, everything to do with publishing the Feb. 11 issue of the Sentinel. All proceeds

to benefit the Penny Mite Society. (A few notes about Penny Mite Society, very active for years) Originated in 1896 as "Woodstock Ladies' Special Benevolence Penny Society"; Name "metamorphased" to Benevolent Penny Society then Penny Society; Raised funds for benevolence/charity; each member pledged 1 cent per week of 52 cents per year; also conducted many fundraisers, suppers (well known for their quality), sold their own cookbooks for many years, etc.
Jan. 22 REPUBLICAN Geo. Bunker donates to library new 2-volume History of McHenry County. Later note (Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois & Biography of McHenry County Citizens. Ed. A.L. Wing Coburn, publ. Munsell Pub. Co., Chicago. 2 volumes.) Feb. 2 REPUBLICAN Groundhog sees shadow- 6 more weeks of winter; "possibility his visual organs may have been out of business".
Feb. 26 REPUBLICAN Local business men form "Retail Merchants' Protective Assocation", original Chamber of Commerce??
Mar. 3 Olive Typewriter factory to have a gold-plated typewriter at St. Louis Exposition. Mar. 11 REPUBLICAN "Business Men's Assn. of Woodstock to affiliate with "Retail Merchants' Assn. of Illinois".
May. 12 "Woodstock has a dramatic club "...first one, recently organized. May 20 REPUBLICAN Free Methodists formally open "Old Folks Rest Home" on 15 acres (formerly James Allen farm) near the Chicago Industrial Home for Children, (orphanage). June 2 Local man, A.J.P. Bertschey has perfected the invention of "telephone repeaters and quads" for long distance - receives national acclaim and "attention of all the electrical world", also in line for $2 million prize.
June 17 REPUBLICAN Special school election held- new school to be built. (Finally!) July 21 Anton Bauer's house on Washington Street robbed of $200; suspects are Hans and Ole Oleson and a Mr. Schultz per information from bolks at the old brewery who said the men were "well supplied with money".
Aug. 12 REPUBLICAN Entire issue of school bonds, $15,785, bought by N. W. Harris & Co. of Chicago, location of school will be Darrell property at Clay and Grove Streets- 4 rooms. Aug. 18 During a switching accident at the trainyard, ten freight cars derailed and knocked over and smashed the signal tower; P. Greason, tower man, completely buried in rubble but rescued alive with only fractured legs and lots of cuts and bruises.
Aug. 25 REPUBLICAN County Fair!! "Butter Statuary in Manufactures Building", "Cron Palae in Agriculture Building" "Antiquity Exhibit in Log Cabin" (this log cabin was erected in 1837 on Englished Prairied by Jonathon Imeson, now moved to fairgrounds "in its original shape"; race purses $250-$300; this was the first profitable county fair, netting between $2000-$3000. Also: more Ramblers at fair than any other type auto. (The original cruise nite??) Sept 5 REPUBLICAN School opens- primary grades will only be half day because not enough room for all children in Woodstock till new school is built.
Sept. 23 REPUBLICAN Large quantities of sandstone being brought in, hauled in for new schoolhouse foundation. (Is "sandstone" something new?) Also, Huge electrical storm -lightning struck the flagstaff of the cupola of the courthouse- tore off some of the pole and some pulleys.
Oct. 13 REPUBLICAN Ladies of Penny Mite Society conduct annual supper at armory- (We


could do a history book of this group alone; seems like they're on the front page of almost every paper!) Also; Death of Merritt L. Joslyn, Esquire, aged 79; a "liberal Democrat" one of McHenry County's and Woodstock's "pioneers from 1830's, "town forefathr and builder of Woodstock"; village president, mayor, Asst. Secretary of Interior to Pres. Arthur, Dorr Township supervisor, 111. Congressman and Senator and fought as Captain in the Civil War, nicknamed " judge"; died at his residence on Jackson St.; "pioneer & veteran lawyer & statesman", owned large amounts of property and " one of the few who helped to build up the waste places in the city", brilliant orator" the "Murat of Illinois Bar";... "before a jury he could combine the gentleness of a zephyr with the strength of a cyclone"
Oct. 21 REPUBLICAN Woodstock Tailoring, S.W. Perkins, Proprietor: Buy a suit, $15 and up, or trousers, $4.00 up and receive a ticket to win a brand new "High Grade Organ." Nov. 1 Borden's Condensing Factory opens.
Nov. 4 REPUBLICAN Carry Nation addresses 2 large audiences at City Hall and Armory on the vils of the liquor industry - "the greatest curse of the day", and sold her books and hatchets "unmolested by anyone". Also, addition to Church block Building ( S.E. corner of Square) nearly completed- inhabited by Woodstock Dry Goods -"one of the finest mercantile establishments in Northern Illinois", very modern clean and well-lit even at night. Nov. 25 REPUBLICAN Borden Condensing Factory in full swing- receive 13,000 lbs. milke per day where it is strained, separated, bottled/canned; 16 bottles per half minutes, then packed into boxes, covered with pulverized ice and loaded in boxcars (plant has its own railroad spur); 1 carload shipped to Chicago per day. Employs 14 workmen; new 70' x 102' ice house now under construction. Also; :Beat this Beet:, Mrs. E.P. Lawrence of Tryon Streeet grows a common table beet -16 pound- 361/4 " circumference, 16" length...
Dec. 6 REPUBLICAN Fire at Opera House- but "Holocaust Averted!" there were "international" people presenting "moving pictures & stereoptican entertainment" when the floor beneath the apparatus (first floor) burst into flames. Those on the main floor were able to utilize the exits, but "smoke and dense gas" rising to the balcony above caused difficulty and panic - some people kicked out the large plate glass window in the lobby and "several dropped 10' to the roof of the outside balcony" (the portico??) Sixteen badly scorched seats, loss of movie equipment, but relatively few minor injuries.
Dec. 9 REPUBLICAN Northwestern railway decides to adopt "automatic block" systems for handling of trains. Line will be laid out through Woodstock - "safest device yet invented for preventing trains coming together."
Dec. 16 REPUBLICAN "Santa Claus has arrived at the Model Bargain Store (Main & Benton Streets) Tool boxes 25 cent - $3.00; Doll carriages & "go-Carts" 25 cents to $3.50; Clipper sleds and others 19 cents to $3.85; Chairs & rockers 10 cents - $1.95. 'iOur line of mechanical toys cannot be beat!" Also, John Harting held up at northwester crossing at Calhoun Street by two men with a revolver who stole $3.60 from him. ("all John happened to have about him"). Newspaper says "Woodstock is getting metropolitan sure enough".
1905
LIBRARY- "CONDENSED NEWS HISTORY BOOK #4
Jan. 6 REPUBLICAN "Ice harvest has begun" Cutting in progress at Dufield's Lake and the


brewery's lake. Also, Note in "A Little Ancient History Column (Book 4 p. 430) "Items from files of 25 years ago- week of Jan. 10, 1880" "Drs. Green and Cook had telephone communication between their offices and residences". "Mud so deep business at a standstill." Jan. 13 REPUBLICAN Oliver Typewriter factory notes: Work resumed after one week vacation. Intention to make output 200 machines per day. LIBRARY-"CONDENSED NEWS HISTORY BOOK #5
Feb. 9. Hon. Wm. Jennings Bryan to lecture at City Hall - "The Value of an Ideal". Also, more automobile ads beginning to appear in newspaper: Oldsmobile $650-$ 1400, Schuett & Schaff, Woodstock phone #129. Winton Bullet No. 1 - Model C - $1800, A.J.P. Bertschy, Woodstock. March 3 Leading citizens propose a hospital be built in Woodstock.
March 24 Cemetery Assn. votes to bar automobiles from inside cemetery "a safety measure designed to prevent accidents....and despoiling lots". Also, Woodstock Dry Goods (Large ad with drawings p. 439) Great Spring Opening Sale of Corsets - Ultra Bust Curving Waist Models 39 cents to $1. "A shape for every figure- A price for every purse!"
(Book #5 only has articles to 10/1905 then jumps to 10/1907.) MICROFILM?
April 21 REPUBLICAN New school on Clay Street opened. Hopes of north siders are reealized. Beautiful new structure dedicated to the uses for which erected. About 180 pupils. May 5 REPUBLICAN Erna Seiler wins Reed & Sons piano in McHenry County Republican contest (that has been conducted for several months) by selling most subscriptions to the newspaper and obtaining 195,736 votes. Second place- Mary Shipton with 183,910 votes- wins $100 scholarship to Chicago Piano College.
Aug 4 REPUBLICAN And still Woodstock grows, school census recently taken show population to be substantially 5,000. The population of the city is now about 5,000. Total children under 21 years of age 1,261. (School census)
Aug. 4 REPUBLICAN Stolen horse found on Tuesday last. Will. Steans noticed a horse and buggy in the sheds at the M.E. Church and at once recognized them as the property of E.S. Austin which disappeared several weeks ago. He immediately reported the matter to Marshal Bolger and the rig was returned to its owner. On the seat was found a card which read "Thanks for Use-Two Chumps".
Aug. 14 REPUBLICAN George K. Bunker dies. Succumbs after two years of serious illness. For more than 60 years a resident of this county-successful as a business man, 79 years old, born in 1826. Spent his life/career teaching, then farming, then in business on the Square with brother, Amos,. Bunker Bros, became a very successful and prominent mercantile establishment, also served two successive mayoral terms, under one of which the Spring House in the park on the Square was constructed.
Sept 1. REPUBLICAN "Vast Crowds attend the McHenry County Fair" "Every railroad train packed and every wagon road black with people on their way to the Great show"; record-breaking crowds, S.R.O at races; in Manufactures building "most noteworthy exhibit is the statue of Abraham Lincoln wrought in pure McHenry County butter. (!!)
Sept 15 REPUBLICAN McHenry County Republican newspaper stronly berates citizens for the "disgusting habit of promiscuous tobacco spitting on the sidewalks of the city, especially on the

cement walk about the public square." Suggest city attorney and council draw up an ordinance make it a misdemeanor so the women of the city can "be spare the nuisance of drawing their skirts through slime on the sidewalks".
Sept. 29 REPUBLICAN YMCA organized in Woodstock - "outgrowth of banquet at Armory last April", officers elected and "plans mapped out for future effective work by the Christian Men of Woodstock:. Also, Wien's- "Clothier & Furnisher, Dry Goods, Shoes" takes out huge half page ad in McHenry County Republican to make "Annual fall announcement of Sale: Footwear for all- $1.25 - $4.00; Blankets and hand-knotted quilts 45 cents - $3.00; Gentlemen's Underwear 35 cents to 85 cents; Gentlemen's Shirts and Drawers $1.25; Suits & overcoats $10 - $20. Oct 6 REPUBLICAN Ad for Union Pacific & So. Pacific Railroads - "California $25.00- every day from Sept. 15 - Oct. 31, 1905." "Through tourist sleeper's, short line, fast trains, no delays." (Let's go!!!)
Oct. 13 REPUBLICAN City Copuncil approves citizen's petition to change name of "East St." to Seminary Avenue. Also, "Lots for sale in beautiful Highland Addition, south part of city facing Dean St.: $1 down, 50 cents per week; prices $10 to $195, no interest charged, taxes paid for you while you are paying for your lot, no payments required while you are sick, every lot high and dry"
(No more in Sherry's book or on microfilm for McHenry County Republican after 10/13 until Jan. 1906 -go now to Sentinel)
Nov. 9 Jail excape of two prisoners prevented by Dep. Sheriff Wandrack about 7 p.m. as he discoers them trying to saw through the bars; men were using saws & "jack knives" that had been smuggled in to them inside of a book. ("WCTU Notes" column every week by M.L. Medlar) (Women's Christian Temperance Union)
Nov, 16 : E. F. Stone, druggist, has disappeared from Woodstock" Not known where to or why. Locked up the store, then seen getting on the train to Chicago, then - nothing. "Quiet Man", wife and son were ill.
Nov. 23 Attorney C.S. Northrop receives letter from E.f. Stone, postmarked Denver, CO, reporting he's on his way to LosAngeles, CA and giving Mr. Northrop power of attorney "to dispose of the stock in his store".
Dec. 14 Ad in Sentinel for "A Victor Talking Machine" - "the greatest musical instrument in the world " His Master's Voice" - 7" records reduced from 50 cents to 35 cents; 10" records reduced from $1 to 60 cents; 12" records reduced from $1.50 to $1. "Christmas Presents! At J. H. Forman Southeast corner of Square".
Dec. 28 Six telephone companies in McHenry County, including the Woodstock Exchange & Telephone Co. "Slash toll rates" - most calls from Woodstock to other points/towns in county go from 25 cents to 10 cents.
1906
Jan. 8 A new Parsonage - St. Mary's Catholic Church has completed a fine parochial residence "one of the handsomest dwellings erected in this city during the past season" (No dollar amount given) Rev. Father M.S. Gilmartin, Pastor.
Jan. 25 (Again) "Woodstock needs more school rooms" - new clay St. school opening last year filled to capacity due to increased enrollment, total enrollment in district - 687 students; with 45

per room they are already out of space; additional 50 students expected next year; also need a gymnasium " not a luxury...can't teach minds without teaching body" Feb. 1 "Dorr taxes lower" -total rate 151/2 cents less per $1000 assessed valuation; school district plus 25 cents, state rate plus 5 cents, cit6y rate minus 38 cents; City of Woodstock 1905 rate was $5.96 per $1,000, now will be $5,801/2.
Feb. 15 Oliver Typewriter factory buys additional adjacent land from Bunker & Dacy, new building will increase factory floor space to nearly double that of present; anticipate adding 100 employees.
Feb. 22 Oliver Typewriter factory opens office in toronto, Canada to begin selling machines there.
April 19 On April 13 in San Francisco tremendous earthquake and ensuring fire damage and destroy majority of city; nearly 1000 dead, 300,000 homeless...
April 26 ...Woodstock Mayor F.A. Walters will hold special meeting to elect officer and committee to raise and receive funds to send for San Francisco relief. May 10 Mr. Frank Forrest, formerly of Woodstock, and his wife, who had moved to San Francisco some years earlier, reportedly survived the quake! Also, Horse thief arrested- a Mr. Frank Langriss, recently paroled from a reform school in Wisconsin for horse stealing and rape, re-arrested in Woodstock with stolen horse and buggy.
May 31 Local photographer H.B. Medlar awarded gold medal at state photography Assn. contest in Springfield, 111. For exceptional and unique technique and quality; "work of such high grade that samples are being sought by photographers all over the state", best pictures "ever made" of McHenry County; Dresden Buff Sepia paper finishing- with a depth and roundness difficult to find in most photos... "more the effect of steel engravings"
June 7 Woodstock resident John Kellogg introduces new building material to Woodstock; purchases a machine to begin making cement blocks to be used in the first construction of that kind in Woodstock; he'll operate cement block business; work from his house on South St. and begin by erecting a new building on Dean St. using the cement blocks. June 21 Two Woodstock women, Mrs. Allen & Charles, are severely injured while en route to visit friends and relatives in "the West" and traveling via stage coach (overturned by team of "unmanageable horses") and are hospitalized near Lyon, Colorado.
June 28 Luman T. Hoy is appointed by President Roosevelt as U.S. Marshall for Northern District of Illinois.
July 27 REPUBLICAN New brass foundry of Hecht Bros. Mfg. Co. to open in a few days (on
Futton property, between Squire Dingee Pickle and Borden Factory).
Oct 12 REPUBLICAN Cornerstone was laid at new Congregational Church.
Oct 16 REPUBLICAN Elks institute a lodge in Woodstock, 50 chartr memebers.
Nov. 16 REPUBLICAN $80,000 to be spent on construction of a public sewer system in
Woodstock- decision is made by "Board of Local Improvements" money to come from "special
assessment plan" " each piece of property benefited by the improvement shall pay its share per
foot in equal installments over a series of years." Also, "Last week" (per article) City Council
passed an ordinance "that hereafter no wooden sidewalk shall be laid anywhere in the city
without Council's consent" would rather have permanent sidewalks.
(No Sentinel copies, lots of Woodstock Republican issues missing on microfilm or very small


issues-few pages- not much to work from!)
THE FOLLOWING ARE FROM WOODSTOCK REPUBLICAN- All pages, all notes,( no
Sentinel available the microfilm tape(s) missing.)
1907
Jan. 4 City taxes to increase this year "Last year $53.50 per $1000 assessed value- figures estimated by county clerk will make the tax $56 on same amount for this year." ($53.50 -$56.00 or $5.35 - $5.60 ?? Shows both.)
Jan. 18 Local implement dealers Schuett & Schaff are exhibiting the Burrell-Lawrence-Kennedy "milking machine: - vacuum type apparatus, belt driven by gasoline engine, steam powers, electric motor or tread power. New to these parts 1 - Several dairy farmers lined up for purchase and installation- "milker's cramp will soon be a thing of the past".
Feb. 1 "Scarlet fever Scare" Inspections ordered, especially at Borden (dairy) factory and "health
officers around the county organized" by Illinois State Board representative who came to town;
"more danger in physicians carrying the infection in their clothes".
Mar. 17 (Not from Republican, This notation was found in a file drawer on a Woodstock
Bicentennial Commission calendar for this date) "Grace Evangelical Lutheran first services in
Woodstock"
May 3 Last week a "farmer's auto" made by International Harvester Co. with "high wheels and hard rubber tires: was purchased by C.S. Beardsley and Sons as an addition to their "automobile livery equipment" and business. Also, City Council passed ordinance "Relating to the payment of a portion of the cost of each square foot of cement sidewalk constructed in or along any street in Woodstock."
May 10 At 2:00 next Monday (May 13) Odd Fellows to have "impressive ceremonty" to lay cornerstone of new lodge at corner of Deitz and Jefferson Sts. "splendid building". Also, next Sunday morning at 10:30 (May 12) will be held dedication ceremonies for the new Free Methodist Church, located on McHenry Street opposite the seminary.
June 7 Last Sunday (June 2) the new First Congregational Church of Woodstock was dedicated "filled to capacity with choirs, guests and pastors and preachers- many from other churches-represents an investment of more than $13,000 (donations).
June 14 Postmasters will receive raised; Woodstock Postmaster Renich's will be increased from $2,200 to $2,300 per year.
Sept. 6 Ad for Wager & Harrison, Agents, Woodstock, 111. "Buy A Ford Automobile- Model 'N' Runabout $600 "Runs 3 to 40 miles on high speed". Ad for A.R. Murphey, Druggist & Jeweler; "Use Paint When You Paint, Sherwin Williams Paints.'!, Ad for W.H. Cornue, General Auctioneer "An Auctioneer that is an Auctioneer: Farm Sales a Specialty." Sept. 27 New post office to open in Odd Fellow Hall. Postmaster Renich expects to be completely read by Monday (Sept. 30)
Oct. 25 "Pleased with treatment- Rochelle football players speak highly of Woodstock" and were impressed with the friendly & courteous treatment given them by Woodstock High School football team.
Nov. 1 "More Electric Railway Talk" another chance for Woodstock to have a "line projected


with a capital of $2,000,000 -heading for Wisconsin resorts from Chicago- Branch lines from Woodstock & Fox Lake: also all Woodstock passengers to reach any of the lakes of Northern Illinois. Also, "Will Start First Hospital" Dr. John Guy purchases schaaf property on Clay Street-exisiting "commodious" house will be converted - hot water and plumbing and electric lights; surgical and maternity/obstetric wards.
Nov 8 Woodstock Republican report" If various householders persist in dumping ashes on and along the public streets in violation of the ordinance, prosecution will follow that will teach a valuable lesson!" Also, City Marshall Bolger is after the boys and young men who make a habit of flipping freight trains as they pass their station which is directly in violation of city ordinance. Nov. 22 All property owners in past week received their notices regarding the assessments for the new sewer system "in accordance with the ordinance passed by City Council: " may seem excessive" but it should but it should be "borne in mind that the undertaking is a giant one". Divided into 20 payments; articles doesn't give any dollar amounts.
Nov. 28 John Becking "opens his subdivision" on North Hoy Ave. and will sell a number of choice lots.
Nov. 29 "In a Blae of (electric) Light - new Odd Fellow Hall is dedicated to Public Use" -(charter was issued to Odd Fellows Assn. by Secretary of State on Nov. 19, 1906) one year to construct and complete building for $26,000. -"a magnificent building to be utilized by many groups" Odd Fellow, Elks, Modern Woodmen of America, Mystic Workers of the World, Knights of Columbus, Women's Club. Also, Woodstock Pleasure Club to present" Grand athletic entertainment to consist of boxing, wrestling, magic and music at City Hall on Dec. 3 for $1.00.
Dec. 6 New bowling alleys opened on Main Street.
Dec. 13 Oliver factory bowling team beat "city" bowling team in a match of three games by a narrow margin of 7 pins.
Dec. 20 "Brad and Gus Marble tramping" through fields in Greenwood: reach a creek ("raging stream") at which point they "drew cuts to see who should strip and carry the other across". "A sight for gods and men to see Bradley in nature's original habiliments toting his brother and their paraphernalia through the creek." Also, Belcher Bros, of the Model Bargain Store received over 2,500 lbs. of Christmas candy in one shipment!
Dec. 27 "Dennis & Williams" have completed a new school house in Bull Valley (that's all it says) Also, "Those girls in the telephone central office ought to be a sweet bunch" - received 75 pounds of candy from Christmas!
1908
FROM S. ANDERSON'S BOOK #5 WOODSTOCK REPUBLICAN
Jan 3 "Bachelors are Gay" "Anticipate with Pleasure their Possible Matrimonial Capture" 1908 is Leap Year- and "the girls are now at liberty to pounce upon the most likely looking bachelor "of their acquaintance and drag the victim up to the altar..."
(January 5 per "Woodstock Bicentennial Commission Calendar" Christian Science Church founded.)
Jan. 10 Officers of "Woodstock, Marengo, Genoa & Sycamore Electric Railways Co. " meet with prominent local businessmen to discuss securing right-of-way from Woodstock to Marengo, so


they can begin "throwing dirt along the line in April or May' and be operational by end of year. Also, High School students start "movement concerning the publication of an annual, or yearbook " The Blue and White " for the school year of '07-'08 (first yearbook?) 8 V2" x 10", 100 pages, $1 per copy. Will contain history of school, literary productions, athletic notes, views of high school and classrooms, pixtures of senior class & faculty and athletic teams, also "etchings and cartoon of an unusually witty character" and local business ads. Jan. 17 Weight of outgoing mail (in accordance with instructions of postal department) for last 6 months of 1907: 1st Class, 4,274 lbs.; 2nd Class, free in County- 10,318 lbs.; 2nd Class, transient 1435 lbs.; 3rd Class 1477 lbs.; 4th Class, 2980 lbs. Also, At Model Bargain Store- new carpet samples received from Carson, Pirie Scott & Co., plus candy 10 cents per pound all day Saturday.
Jan. 24 Schuett & Schaff "Main St. Implement Dealers, advertising Buick Automobiel (Model F) $1250.
Jan. 24 Pasco Austin 82, dies at his home (South & Tryon)- "one of the most prominent and best known of the early settlers of this locality"; married Harriet Judd in 1848. Worked in the American, 1st Woodstock Hoteal, also operated a livery stable, then traded cattle & horses and acquire real estate-" at time of death reputed to be one of Woodstock wealthiest citizens:. Jan. 31 Coldest day in past three winters last Tuesday (Jan. 28?) Minus 2 to minus 18 below zero. "Good for the ice and coal dealers, deadly to microbes and good for humanity in general". (Huh?)
Feb. 14 Contract let to Gierty & sons of Elgin for Woodstock's sewerage plant- $76,847.60 to begin "as soon as frost is outof the ground".
Feb. 21 "Howling Blizzard Blockades Railroad and Interfers with Business in General"; schools
out early, no mail delivery, "farmers say drifts in country six-eight feet high".
Feb. 28 Gus Behren's saloon robed of $70 last Tuesday- "indications point to home talent".
Also, "Formal" opening of Clay St. Hospital (work begun last October), (picture on page
502)(former Schaff home) public invited " to inspect the building"; in operating room the table is
the latest patented by Mayo Brothers of Rochester, MN; beds for TO patients.
Mar. 6 Automatic cancelling machin installed in post office by Postmaster Renich- "will greatly
expedite handling of mails"
Mar. 13 Wien's Store plans to celebrate 14th Anniversary.
Mars. 10 80 Carter members organize Woodstock Aerie of Fraternal Order of Eagles. Mar. 17 John Aaron Dufield, 57, dies from Bright's disease; for 25 years local newspaper publisher (Sentinel, the New Era, The Democrat, McHenry County Democrat & McHenry County Republican)
April 24 Hall & Eckert lumberyard on Madison Street "almost annihilated"... is worst conflagration in years" - location Lumber & Madison Streets, fire started in their barn, where both "large & noble animals" their horses died, about 3 a.m.. "From Madison Street to the railroad tracks was one sea of flame"; embers from the fire floated as far as Washington St. and ignited some buildings there as well, company had no fire insurance (yikes!!); city only has one well (second under construction-being drilled) so Oliver Typewriter Superintendent offered use of their reservoir, also high praise for firemen- "all worked with vim to do his duty"... Also, "Jubilee Banquet" in Chicago for reunion of graduates from Todd Seminary for Boys who will


celebrate its 60* year in June.
May 29 "Street Signs Assured" per Alderman Olson- "something will be done at once" and then lots may be numered by City Council (actual house numbers???) "And we will be up-to-date and thoroughly in line with the best cities of our class". Also Alderman Olson proposes to use the old brick from the brewery to pave Washington Street, rathr than gravel; cost will be less "and the result much more satisfactory". Also, City's existing well down to a depth of 1600' and tested and found to pump 150 gallons per minute; city council decides it needs to go "still deeper" (by July 10 it has reached 2100', pumps 200 gallons per minute- Council says okay). June 5 J.J. Stafford store offers a quartered oak polished rocking chair with full spring leather seat and leather back $14- $2 down and $2 a month.
June 12 Blanche Bunker graduated as doctor of Osteopathy (a woman!) On 6/5 from American College Of Osteopathic Medicine & Surgery, Chicago.
July 10 City Council will meet July 23 to receive bids for a second well, 1200' deep "or more"; "Bidder to furnish all pipes & casings...city will furnish steam for engines". Also, "Telephone installed at depot for railroad business " the idea being the abandonment of the telegraph system".
Aug. 21 James Kelly, Jr. struck by southbound freight train and died 3 hours later at City Hall where he'd been "conveyed" by the night watchmen and Dr. Windmueller (body thrown 20', both legs and one arm severed- was. alive & conscious & "conversed with those about him until a few moments before death")
Sept. 18 Women's Relief Corps campaigning and soliciting funds for past "ten or twelve" years for a soldier's monument is now appealing to public for completion of funds so monument may soon be built.
Oct. 9 " Ground Broken for Imposing Catholic House of Worship" new St. Mary's Cathedral at Tryon and Lincoln, next to new parsonage built in 1906- $60,000.
Oct. 9 Nearly $ 119,000 has been (receipts & expenditures) invested in City of Woodstock Electric Light & Water Plant over past 13 years; current worth is $150,000- so good investment. If plant were to be privatized, cost to city for public and school light and fire hydrants per year would be almost $9,500.
(That's it!) (No more Sentinel film for this year, and not much in Woodstock Republican) 1909
WOODSTOCK SENTINEL UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.
Feb 4. Friday, Dairy farmers of Woodstock and vicinity held a meeting at City Hall last week to organize a Frmer's Milk Producing Assn. in the intent of becoming powerful enough to be able to set milk prices themselves; there's been increasing friction between them and dairies over prices paid for their milk (cost of feed is high, etc.,; farmers not earning enough). Feb. 11 Thomas Oliver, inventor of the typewriter "which bears his name" died (in Chicago) Tuesday, Feb. 8. Memorial services at factory in Woodstock on Thursday attended by about 1,000 persons who were associated with the factory (supervisors, employees, etc.,) plus 400-500 "visitors from among the citizens of Woodstock" (article says he was born in 1852 or 1862-(can't tell) in Woodstock, Canada). (Great story about him!)


Feb. 25. Postal Department has granted Woodstock an additional route, now has seven, will have eight after May 1- "city delivery will be established" in a short amount of time". Mar. 25 Ad for Malte Schwabe, Jeweler, Benton St., Woodstock: Columbis Double-Disc Records 65 cents; Music on Both Sides!! Two Records At a Single Price!! April 1 Proposition to be voted on next Tuesday asks citizen whether "the poor" should continue to be supported by the townships, or rather by the county, there are continually disputes over the matter and about individual cases; Sentinel proposes all be cared for at county level. May 13 "Local photographer Wins More Laurels" - Herbert Medlar retiring as president of the Illinois Photogrpher's Assn. is voted to their Board of Trustees.
May 27 Huge gathering at ceremony to lay cornerstone for new St. Mary's . Also, "Earthquake Felt in Woodstock" and around Illinois "brief tremors" (can't read the rest!) June 3 "Soldier's Monument to be Erect Soon" -probably next September or October- article with nice drawing; "after 10 years of effort and striving by Women's Relief Corps'"; ground broken last week, monument will be of marble - 26'8", base almost 9' square, figures of statue ("Soldier standing at parade rest") -6' high; base 10 to 12 tons, monument 30 tons, total cost $3,000 raised largely in small amounts by W.R.C.- socials, 10 cent teas, "eating house at fairgrounds", a lecture course, a ball, etc.; Zoia says work already underway. July 8 Last Friday (Julyl) city clerk, Lynn Richards' maps of city streets were approved and adopted by City Council as "the official maps for the numbering of houses in" Woodstock; during this week official house numbers will be given to "householders" who are then obliged by city ordinance to display the number in a "conspicuous place on the front of the building"; then the city will compile a directory. Also, Jack Bennett of Woodstock fined $ 100 (!) For driving his auto (back on Christmas eve) without lights and causing a serious accident and injury to a buggy driver.
July 22 City mail delivery to begin Oct. 15 - two deliveries for residential- one morning and one afternoon, three for business district- must have house numbers up!. Also, Oliver Typewriter band will give concerts in the park during summer every Thursday.
Aug. 5 On Tuesday (Aug. 2) the "Ten Thousand Club" was organized with by-laws, officers,
etc., - object "the upbuilding and advancement of Woodstock and her interests."
Aug. 12 "Emerson typewriter company NOT to Come Here", investigating committee advises
against them because they want the city and residents to "purchase a proposed amount of stock:"
then Emerson will use that money to build their factory. Also, City Council granted a 50-year
franchise to Copy Gas Trust of Aurora to supply Woodstock with gas.
Aug. 19 The "Oliver Amusement Parlors", 224-226 Main St. are now reopened after being
remodeled and redecorated; "tables newly covered and the best of ten pins and bowling balls
procured"; "the finest and best equipped in the country" (not county!)
Sept. 2 "Hurricane-the Giant Ostrich" - "Fastest Bird in the World!" races at the McHenry
County Fair Sept 7-10. Also, Harvard man, Will Travis, is arrested and brought to court in
Woodstock and jailed due to complaints filed against him by his wife that he was, from their
home, sellingbeer without a license "running a house of ill-repute". (!!) Arrested twice in same
day, by the Constable and then the Marshall.
Sept. 16 Emerson Plant "may still come" plans again under consideration with new terms. Also, Among items in City Council minutes (from?- no date give- same week?): many plans for


street lights around the city; "electric pole lines" extended in various places for both city and private lighting; "have placed one 500-light transformer at Oliver brass works for power and lighting purposes; Spring House newly painted; new band stand completed and dedicated; "Have installed new iron electrical lamp posts in the park" plus 10 new "settees" (benches?) Plus 25 new chairs for bandstand plus new flag on City Hall. Also, City attorney instructed to write to C & NW Railway Co. requesting "automatic alarm bells at all crossings in the city immediately". Sept. 23 "$25,000 Subscribed for New Factory" - amount so far "pledged" of $30,000 needed to bring Emerson to Woodstock; location to be around Madison and Lumber Streets.; many still disagree with people of Woodstock paying to get factory, but won't oppose the plan if others decide to do so - may break ground Oct., 1 ready for occupancy Jan 1, 1910. Also, "Colored Couple Married Here" (!!) On Sept. 22 by Justice Emil Arnold, Cluster Connor and Miss Nellie Sherrill of N.C.. Groom had been employee of Judge Donnelly at his home in Lake Geneva during summer and the "good natured judge chaperoned the dusky couple"... Also, Mr. Frank Morse of N.Y.C. "Assures" a Sentinel representative that the Waukegan & Rockford electric line (railway??) "Will be built without a doubt" through Woodstock.
Sept.30 "Carriers named for City Free Delivery" - Four local men have passed the civil service exam given in August and will begin as the first mail carriers with new city postal delivery commencing Oct. 15 (E. Friend, H. Blanchard, F. Hammond, A. Herdklotz). Oct 7 German Presbyterian society one of the oldest church institutions in the county (organized in Greenwood township 1853 1st members "nearly all the old pioneers") adopted a resolution to discontinue holding services and sell the church property built in 1881 (Washington Street) due to "decreasing membership caused by deaths of most of the older members and the affiliating of the younger people with the First Presbyterian Church." Oct. 14 "City Carrier Service Begin this Week in Woodstock" - "Past 10 years form a remarkable decade in history of Woodstock." 1900 population 2500 to "5000-6000 persons in 1910"; "new business blocks erected, hundreds of new houses", "remarkable growth of Oliver Typewriter factory, now at about 1000 employees" "18 persons in Uncle Sam's employ" at Post Office/ few years ago was Postmaster and one assistant.)
Oct 21 "Monument Now Stands in Park" - during past week the soldier's monument was placed in position in the middle of the park (square), erected by Women's Relief Corps in honor of Civil War vets, work by A.J. Zoia, "unveiling to be Wed. Nov. 3 - "Governor Deneen may come". Also, 28 mail collection boxes have been placed at various intersections around the city; "where one week ago 5000 people were calling for their mail daily at the post office, now the larger part of them are receiving it at regular intervals at their homes; Patrons have been erecting private boxes or receptacles at their homes, otherwise if no one at home, mail returned to local post office. ^ :
Oct. 21 Grace Lutheran Society has purchased former German Presbytrian Church on Washington Street (See notes Oct. 7) Also, Ad for sewing machines (treadle type) $10.00 to $35.00 Guaranteed 10 years M. Sherman & Sons, Opticians & Jewelers. Ad for shoes at Alt-Hayden Clothing Co. $2.50 to $5.00. Ad for Cole's Hot Blast Stoves- burns soft coal, hard coal, wood or cobs $12 up, Belcher Bros. Ad for Men's & Boy's Clothing at Wien's Dept. Store: Gentlemen's & Boys' Shirts and Overcoats $6 to $25; Boys' and Little Fellows' suits & overcoats $1.98 to $10; Ladies' Coats $7.50 to $25; Ladies' sweater jackets $2.50 to $3.00.


Oct. 28 "New October telephone directory has been printed at Sentinel office". Also, The Sentinel accuses the current city council of being in "a financial abyss into which it has plunged itself by its reckless and blind extravagance during the past year"; city now need "$8,000 to save the city's credit" - coming special city election to vote on proposition of "bonding the city..." "Voter's rights have been usurped"as city has overspent. Also, "Work was begun on Tuesday on foundation for new Emerson Typewriter factory" - a sidetrack staked out from railroad at Clay St. crossing, east on Church to new building.
Nov. 4 "Soldier's Monument Unveiled" -3000 persons attend ceremony, great event & Sentinel description (attahe copy of article).
Nov. 11 W.L. Procunier of Chicago who has invented a "tapping chuck" for drilling into iron or steel is considering locating and opening his shop (factory)" in Woodstock- not a new building, possibly upper floor of Wien's. Also, "Elmer Hammone of Harvard is the most popular man among the housewives of Woodstock... with his new electric vacuum cleaner." Nov. 18 City divided into "four new wards" pr ordinanced passed last week by City Council;-each ward with two aldermen rather than 3 as previously (used to be two wards). Special City Council census, population of Woodstock 4,475.
Nov. 25 Western united Gas & Electric has completed connections between Elgin & Woodstock and its office on the Square last Friday was "brilliantly illuminated" with "hundreds viewing and admiring the display", only building in town currently light with gas though company has more than 200 order and anticipates completing 150 by Christmas (waiting on meters.). Laying of pipe to town began last week of September- big plow pulled by 6 draft horses used to trench 2' deep for line-19 14 miles of mains placed and 6 miles of service pipe and city mains in Woodstock. Also, "Young Blond Lady Swindler Sought" - woman claiming to be a solicitor for funds for Chicago Industrial Home for Children has collected hundreds of dollars in vicinity.
Dec. 2 "Traveling salesmen" (door - door) arrested on Washington Street by U.S. Revenue Inspectors for selling "Bogus Butter" to about a hundred Woodstock housewives - "stuff he delivered ordinary grade of oleo-margarine worth 15 cents a pound" was claiming ("fine: grade Wisconsin") it was butter for 25 cents to 28 cents a pound (current retail 35 cents plus). Dec. 16 "Merchandise Certificates" - Alt-Hayden Clothing Store announces a "new and novel plan in Woodstock" - merchandise certificates to be used as cash - the first gift certificates!! Also, Woodstock-Sycamore "electric car traction line's" prospects beginning "to wane until they will fade away into hazy nothiness" (so much for that!)
Dec. 26 Women met Nov. 30 at home of E.V. Anderson to hear Miss Harriett Grim of University of Chicago speak on behalf of the Illinois Equal Suffrages Association.
1910
WOODSTOCK SENTINEL UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED
Jan. 6, Thursday Official price of butter on Elgin Board of Trade is 36 cents per lb. (The price of butter is on the front page of the paper every week.) Dec. 27, 1909, 36 cents; Dec. 28, 1908, 32 cents; Dec. 30,1907, 29 cents. Also, Next Sunday (Jan. 9) at Opera house "mass meeting" to be held for those "interested in temperance and desiring to abolish the saloon". Speaker to be Hon. H.L. Sheldon former member of Illinois legislature; also representatives from Illinois Anti-


Saloon League will be at local churches Sunday morning. Also, Heavy snowstorm last Tuesday blocked almost all railroad traffic for days - worst in more than 20 years; passengers were stalled and some remained on trains all night ("kept warm"), others filled hotels to capacity at railroad's expense, some trains "pulled back" to stations. "Thirteen passenger and fright engines with as many crews and about 100 laborers with snow shovels were doing heroic duty (at Crystal Lake) to untangle the blockade". Also, Peter Herdklotz, first pioneer settler on Queen Anne prairied in 1838, died at home of one of his daughters, Mrs. Emil Pfeiffer in Woodstock - aged 89 years, 10 months, 1 week. Also, Ad for A. Dwight Osborn ("The Hardware, Stove & China Store - With a Bargain Basement) (!) "WE SELL GAS STOVES!" "Direct action gas, light the oven and put in baking immediately" "biscuits in five minutes".
Jan. 13 "Sheriff Wandrack Raids Cock Fight" (big headline) McHenry County Sheriff "visits cock fights at Fox River picnic ground 10 miles from Woodstock, but no arrests. Also, "Coal Famine" (due to recent harsh weather) threatens Woodstock.
Jan. 27 "Early Closing" (6:30 p.m.) Of Woodstock retailers begun a few weeks earlier, "caused a veritable tempest in a teapot" during its short time and was thus discontinued. Intent was to allow owners and employees more time with families and so on and at first was "highly commendable and endorsed", but soon produced "an unexpected storm of protest", mostly from Oliver Typewriter factory workers for whom it caused "hardship" to shop during their time off. Sentinel goes on at length to soothe both sides (retailers and customers) by strongly reminding store owners the value of the Oliver Typewriter factory workers to this town, their businesses, etc.
Feb. 3 Article regarding "Local Option Issue Before Voters"; in a few months it will be voted upon whether or not to "wipe out the twelve saloons in Woodstock" (vote several years ago was 700 for the saloons, 600 against).
Feb. 17 Woodstock' attorney David R. Joslyn (also State's Attorney) retained on behalf of Marengo man (T. Nihan) and his 2 children to file an injunction in circuit court to restrain Marengo school board and teachers from teaching the Bible in school. Charges are that only Protestants, and not Catholics are being employed, and only Protestant Bible and prayers being read and said, and Catholic children are "compelled to listen to said religious exercises against their wishes" and those of their parents; therefore - no religious education or prayers should be allowed in public schools. Judge Donnelly granted a temporary injunction till May. Mar. 10 Efforts being made by Woodstock high school graduates to form Alumni Assn., meeting held to organize, nominate officers, etc.
Mar. 17 St. Mary's new church dedicated last Sunday (March 13). (This issue of Sentinel has lots of information.)
Mar. 31 Large notice on front page: "More Facts Concerning thg Benefits of a "Dry City". Hon. M.H. Cleary, brother of Father Cleary, the famous temperance orator, will speak at the Opera House Sunday evening at 7:30 o'clock- "Every citizen interested in the welfare of Woodstock should be present".
April 7 "Wets Win Victory- Vote is Decisive" Wet 826 to Dry 552.
April 21 "Emerson Factory Opening Tonight" - banquet and grand ball (brief article, no other info) Also, Woodstock Board of Education wants to install a "system of sanitary drinking fountains" (in schools) - will investigate cost. Oliver Typewriter factory has been using them


"with satisfactory results". "System consists of a metal cup... water continually bubbling over edges...person...brings lips in contact with water...and not cup itself. To replace "disease spreading tin cups" (Ugh!) Money issue.
April 28 "Emerson Building Opened to Public" - Banquet ("nearly 400 (hard to read) people were fed" "entire building illuminated by gas", "numerically speaking probably greatest grand march with greatest number of spectators of any occasion that ever occurred in Woodstock" estimate 2000-4000 people. $40,000 to build, lengthy description of building itself; factory to begin operations May 15. Also, "City Should Have Paved Streets" - they are "a disgrace" "gravel and sand has been a waste of money" "nothing to show but mud" after thousands of dollars spent per year. Sewer is done, do streets!
May 5 "Old Foundry" building, corner of Clay and Church "a landmark" to razed. May 6 From City Council Minutes: Recommended and passed that the city purchase "Lots one to twelve inclusive of Block Four spring City addition to Woodstock for $450 to be used as a dumping ground by said city of Woodstock" (City dump?). Also, Woodstock gets an official Fire Dept!! : Alderman Frame, chairman of the Fire Committee, presented an ordinance entitled "An Ordinance Establishing a Fire Department for the city of Woodstock, creating Officers, defining their duties, providing for pay for firemen..."Passed as read."
May 26 (Interesting) "Judge Administers Pledge to Prisoners" Judge Donnelly allows a number of prisoners to plead guilty to lesser charges ("plea bargains" something new???) (So as not to be sentenced to penitentiary incarceration, only short time in county jail) on the condition that they pledge to the court to "forever abstain from the use of intoxicating liquor" - under the influence of which their crimes were committed. Sentinel calls these proceedings "unusual and impressive".
June 2 McHenry County Medical Assn. organized last Wednesday (June 1) at Odd Fellow Hall in Woodstock. President CM. Johnson, Harvard; Dr. E. Windmueller, Woodstock. June 9 City Council decided last Friday (June 3) to pave the streets "around the public square and a short distance in each direction from the square", and also establish a curb line. Property owners are encouraged to build curbs and if done so according to city specifications- city will pay 10 cents per linear foot toward expense.
June 16 The former German Presbyterian Church, having been purchased by the Lutheran congregation earlier this year (Feb.) And having had "a number of changes on the interior" made, will be dedicated a Grace Lutheran Church on Sunday, June 19.
June 23 Sherman business block (building?) sold to State Bank of Woodstock. Also, Ad for 4th of July in Woodstock- very elaborate, including "100 NOISY GUNS AT SUNRISE" (???) June 30 McHenry County Medical Assn. adopts fee bill (to go into effect July 1): Town calls $1.50; town calls 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. $2.00; office calls 75 cents minimum; night office calls $1.00; Obstetrics $15.00 cash minimum; obstetrics instrumental $20 and up; Venereal $5.00 cash minimum (Yikes!); mileage 50 cents per mile; plus $1.50 per call; Detention $2.00 per hour after 4 hours, etc. Woodstock doctors: Windmueller, Anderson, Doolittle (yes!), Smith, Guy, Seelye (6 doctors in Woodstock).
July 14 "Supreme Court Bars Bible from Public Schools" (Illinois)
July 21 New to the Sentinel front page: "Emerson Items"- Oliver Typewriter factory has had a front page column all along.


Aug. 4 Editor of Sentinel tells of his automobile trip to Lake Geneva and "the pleasure of riding over miles and miles of oiled streets'. Recommend city of Woodstock consider this method as remedy to very dusty street during very dry weather and "shortage of water"; "especially in the business part of the city". Also, "City Fathers" have decided city council will have regular meetings twice a month; meetings were the first Friday evening of each month, now to be every 1st and 3rd Monday. Also, "Water Famine Threatens City" - city water supplies low, Olive Typewriter is contributing, but "city fathers bothered by danger of fire". Oct. 27 Thanksgiving turkeys will be 2 cents to 4 cents per pound.
Nov. 17 The Armory building, Home of Company G, on Calhoun between Dean and Jefferson Streets burned to the ground between 3 and 4 a.m. on Sat., Nov. 12. $6000 worth of government property destroyed (rifles, ammo, military equipment). Also, Chicago Telephone Co. exchange will move to second floor of Church block building- Woodstock Dry Goods is below. Dec. 15 Emerson Typewriter factory lays off "about 35 or 40 men" -doesn't say why.
1911
Sherry Anderson's Condensed History Book #6 WOODSTOCK REPUBLICAN Feb. 3 Article reads: Dedicate Rogers Hall. Beautiful new study building of Todd Seminary for Boys. Impressive service attended by many friends of the institution from Woodstock. (Picture, page 578 Book 6)
Feb. 17 Article reads: New telephone lists. Local subscribers to the telephone service received their new and revised list, in which there are a great many changes, last Sunday. Apr. 7 Article Reads: Mothers' Day is set May 14, will wear white carnations in honor of mothers. The Modern Woodmen Society has begun its annual campaign in favor of active observance of Mothers' Day throughout the M. W. A. jurisdiction.
June 9 Graduating class of 1911 of the Woodstock High School, 23 students. (Good photo, page 611 of Book 6)
July 28 New car attracts attention; Woodstock and Sycamore motor car on local side tracks (Woodstock and Sycamore Interurban Railway)
August 11 Woodstock growing; Evidence seen in the demand for more improvements. People ask for extension of water mains and improvement board promptly responds. Sept. 8 People await new flags. Old Glory changed to contain forty eight stars. (Admission of Arizona and New Mexico).
Oct. 6 Ad reads: Window Glass, all sizes. If you want it set, we have a man to do it. Painting, Kalsomining, wall paper and hanging. A.S. Wright, South Side Druggist. Oct 27 Fine piece of workmanship, in the public park four pedestals have been erected to support the guns recently obtained from the national government. They are built of hard-heads and cement and show skillful workmanship. ,
Book #7 WOODSTOCK REPUBLICAN
Dec. 22 Ad reads: "Now is the time to place your order for lighting that Christmas tree with some of my small electric lights. See R.G. Turner at Tripp's Studio or phone 156. Dec. 22 Editor of Republican: The writer has been informed that on last Monday night the city council at the request of certain members of the fire department, passed a resolution that the city


employ a man and a team of horses to sleep in the fire apparatus rooms and be in readiness to haul out apparatus in case of fire. They must surely know that the horse stable odor will make the whole building undesirable for anything else.
Transcribed by jhmansfield June 2002