Notes for Sesquicentennial History of Woodstock, 1912-1921

Notes for Sesquicentennial History of Woodstock, 1912-1921

2002

en-US

Text

1912-1921
COMPILED BY KARL NIELSEN 2002
RESEARCHER'S COMPUTER HARD COPY COMPUTER FILE: HNOTES1920 22 PAGES

WOODSTOCK, ILLINOIS HIGHLIGHTS OF HISTORY JANUARY 1912-DECEMBER 1921 by Karl Nielsen

WR- Woodstock Republican
WS- Woodstock Sentinel
WA- Woodstock American
YEAR-1912
MARCH 8
WR, Page 1
° New telephone company getting ready to start business.
o The Independent Telephone Company is preparing to start business in this city in earnest and will have their exchange in working order before the end of the week.
WR, Page 5
• Advertisement:
How is your Victor Talking Machine or Victrola running? Does it need adjusting or oiling? Drop us a card or phone 169J and we will send a man to do the adjusting and oiling free of charge. If new parts are needed, charges will be made only for such parts as are needed.
MARCH 15
WR, Page 5
o Classified ad:
For Sale at once on account of poor health, boarding house, close to both factories, 116 N. Madison Street, Ben Wheeler.
MARCH 22
WR, Page 9
• V. D. Sherburne who opened a Ford Agency in Woodstock a few weeks ago, reports the following sales:
o Torpedo Runabout to: Dr. W. W. Lichty, Dr. Smith and Leslie Heaton of Woodstock;
o Touring Cars to: N. J. Garrison, C. F. Ellisworth, Wm. Zimmerman, and Frank Hobart, of Woodstock, John Judson of Hebron and Orlando Garrison of Greenwood. Going some for this kind of weather.
JUNE 14
WR, Page 1
• Woodstock High School graduating class of 1912: 21 students.

YEAR -1912 (cont'd)
JUNE 18
Woodstock Bicentennial Common Calendar
• Bid was let to Logan & Geirtz of Elgin. Bricks laid on streets in Square using 14,837 square yards of Vitrified Brick Pavement at a cost of $28,465.71.
• Per the special request of numerous Woodstock citizens, the City Council granted a petition to allow movie screenings under the following conditions:
o Clean pictures depicting historical, educational, and biblical topics, o Shown on Sundays from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. only.
JULY 5
WR, Page 1
• Will improve County Jail.
o Extensive additions to be made in order to increase facilities, o Extend south wall 10 feet, o Make building 2 stories high.
JULY 19
WR
• Article reads:
Will hitch to Square. Farmers will be accommodated with hitching rings. Sixteen beautiful pillars to mark entrances and adorn corners of the park (electric globes on pillars).
SEPTEMBER 6
WR, Page 1
• School opened on Tuesday.
o 110 beginners and 875 in the whole school, o High School enrollment: "34 Freshmen
37 Sophomores
33 Juniors
27 Seniors LPost Graduate
SEPTEMBER 27
WR, Page 1
• Work begins on new armory.
o Building to be made of brick, stone, and steel construction.
o Building to be completed in 4 months.
o Utilized same contractor as paving on Square.
WR, Page 9
• Aviation meet Automobile and Motorcycle races at Woodstock Fair Grounds, Sunday, September 29 at 3:00 p.m.
• A match race between a horse, bicycle, motorcycle, and an aeroplane to be a feature on the Program.


YEAR -1912 (cont'd)
OCTOBER 18
WR, Page 5
• Theodore Roosevelt shot.
Theodore Roosevelt, the beloved ex-president, was shot by a demented fiend at Milwaukee last Monday.
NOVEMBER 8
WR, Page 1
» Governor Wilson of New Jersey, democratic candidate for the presidency, was elected President of the United States Tuesday by a vote that was a veritable landslide.
DECEMBER 13
WR, Page 1
• Article reads
Woodstock, the city, beautiful, splendidly paved and at night ablaze with thousands of ornamental lights. Mayor Donovan and City Council accept paving; electrician Swale completes lighting system (complete wrap-up of Square construction in this article), (Tom Swale, Jane Dahm knew him)
YEAR-1913
JANUARY 23
WS
• Classified ad reads:
For Sale high-grade automobile 1910 model, 45 hp. Will take good driving horse as part payment. Call or address 231 Benton Street, Woodstock, IL.
FEBRUARY 21
WR, Page 5
o Advertisement:
V. D. Sherburne New Ford prices: Runabout: $525 Delivery Car: $625 Touring Car: $600 Town Car: $800
FEBRUARY 26
Woodstock Bicentennial Common Calendar
• Woodstock Businessmen's Association formed!
FEBRUARY 28
WR, Page 1
• New Armory opens Sunday.
• Sleet Storm Havoc
Fall of sleet and" snow is worst in history of the County. Miles of telephone, telegraph, and electric wires broken down with great weight - snaps poles off like matches.

YEAR -1913 (cont'd)
APRIL 12
McHenry County Historical Society "Pre 45" File
• "Proceedings of Woodstock City Council"
o City Clerk salary increased to $25/month - $300/year. o City Attorney salary increased to $33/month - $400/year.
APRIL IS
WR, Page 1
• Takes his own life: W. F. Weaver, prominent merchant, commits rash act.
MAY 23
WR, Page 1
• Article reads:
Pave Tryon Street, paving of Dean Street also under consideration. WR, Page 3
• Ad reads:
Tuesday, June 3, Oklahoma Ranch Wild West Show, one day only: Auto Polo, by Death Defying Drivers, Football on Horseback, Barbarous Mexico Steer Wrestling, five tribes of Indian Warriors, one day only.
JUNE 6
WR, Page 4
• Ad reads:
Saturday Special at A. D. Osbornes a 10 qt. Dish Pan - .10 cents.
JUNE 13
WR, Page 1
• Graduating class of Woodstock High School: 27 pupils. Pleasing program faultlessly carried out, parents and friends of pupils crowd the Opera House to its capacity.
• New jail completed, Sheriff Henderson's new reception parlors now being occupied.
AUGUST 1
WR, Page 4
• If it isn't an Eastman it isn't a Kodak. Kodaks $5.00 and upward, brownies $1.00 -$12.00, A. S. Wright exclusive agency.
• SECO Special 17 Jewel Elgin Watch, attractively dialed and handsomely cased: $25.
AUGUST 8
WR, Page 4
• Article reads:
Many people don't see well at night because they still insist on using kerosene lights instead of electric lights.
AUGUST 29
WR, Page 4
• Hart Schaffner & Marx suits $ 18.00 and up overcoats $ 16.5 0 and up
4

YEAR - 1913 (cont'd)
SEPTEMBER 26
WR, Page 4
• Ad reads:
The White Way Washing Machines: White Lilly: $7.85
White Daisy: $9.85 White Lilly Power: $25.00
DECEMBER 5
WR. Page 1
• Hitch rail for Square.
• Businessmen's Association present resolution to City Council believing present curbing is not high enough to protect horses from getting over into the park.
DECEMBER 26
WR, Page 4
• Ad reads:
Company "G" Dance at Woodstock Armory, Wednesday evening, December 31. Wynkoops 7-piece orchestra will furnish the music. Tickets: .50 cents per couple.
YEAR - 1914
JANUARY 2
WR, Page 4
• Ad reads:
Carriage and automobile painting by Henry Burdick. Shop localed corner East and Calhoun Streets. Residence 614 Madison Street.
JANUARY 9
Woodstock Bicentennial Calendar o Public hospital is created.
• Woodstock goes Dry by 400, Harvard and North Crystal Lake also in Dry column. McHenry, Union, and Richmond remain Wet.
JANUARY 16
WR, Page 5
o To build mausoleum, beautiful structure to be built in Oakland Cemetery by international company. White marble, Bedford stone, and tile to be used in construction - many cities have similar receptacles.
• Woodstock Implement Co. ad reads:
The year's sensation is here Maxwell "25" automobile — $750 fully equipped.
JANUARY 23
WR, Page 1
o Pass paving ordinance at the meeting of the City Council last Monday night. An ordinance was passed calling for the paving of Dean Street, Throop Street, and a portion of South Street, West Jackson, Washington, and Calhoun Street.

YEAR -1914 (cont'd)
FEBRUARY 20
WR, Page 1
• To have 5 saloons, City Council so decided at meeting held on Monday evening. After May 1st, all screens, partitions, booths, blinds, or anything to obstruct view must be removed.
MARCH 6
WR, Page 5"
• The new city directory canvasses just completed. Shows our city's population on January lr 1914 to be 4,635. This is. an increase of 332 over the 1910 census.
MARCH 12
o Woodstock Library fire. Burned to the ground, lost all 1,906 volumes. [wrong-library burned, not entire City Hall building]
APRIL 10
WR, Page 1
• At an option election on April 7, the suffrage vote put the town on the Dry list by an overwhelming majority.
• The Woodstock Typewriter Company purchased the plant and equipment formerly occupied by the Emerson Company and has started operations toward the marketing of machine which ought to help stamp Woodstock as the Typewriter City of this country.
APRIL 24
WR, Page 1
• Article reads:
Autoists take warning, hereafter the speed limit for autos about the public Square and on the business streets of Woodstock will be 10 miles and hour and 5 miles around the corners.
• Many women vote:
Fair sex in evidence last Saturday when election of school board is on. Many autos convey women voters to and from the polls.
JUNE 19
WR, Page 1
• 27 receive diplomas, class of 1914 pass from high school life at Opera House last Friday evening,
JULY 3
WR, Page 5
• Advertisement:
Princess Theatre, Saturday, July 4, The Adventures 6fKathryn#13, The Court of Death, two reels, matinees at 3:00 and 4:00 p.m., 5 & 10 cents, evening 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, and 10:00, 10 cents to all.

YEAR -1914 (cont'd)
SEPTEMBER 4
WR, Page 1
• Change their name "Woodstock Typewriter" chosen by directors as cognomen for new machine, former Emerson Co. to continue the business - will be a great boost for our city.
NOVEMBER 13
WR, Page I
• Our fine new depot, contractors complete structure for C&N.W. Railway building now occupied.
DECEMBER 11
WR, Page 6
• How the new Maxwell 1915 $695 car is made. Ad reads:
Coming to the Princess Theatre December 21st; 1914, the $40,000 5-reeI feature film sensation from molten steel to automobile, most interesting, vivid, fascinating educational moving pictures. Free tickets upon application. This "Wonder Car" with electric self-starter and electric lights only $55 extra. v:
YEAR-1915
JANUARY 1
• V. D. Sherburne advertises:
Ford Runabout at $440; Touring Car $490; Town Car $690 F.O.B. Detroit.
JANUARY 1
WR, Page 1
• Article reads:
Enter new quarters, Woodstock Hospital moves from Clay Street to new home on South Street. New place furnishes more adequate accommodations and will greatly improve the hospital. Ready for patients January 4, 1915.
JANUARY 15
WR, Page 4
® John J. Stafford has just received a splendid Cunningham Ambulance. It will accommodate the patient and has seats for two doctors. The fittings are all of solid mahogany. It is lighted by electricity.
MARCH 12
WR, Page 5
• Kimball Piano store advertises 9-piece cooking and roasting set for $1.98, 10-piece $2.48,.new process, pure aluminum.
MARCH 26
WR, Page 5
• A new button boot with sand or grey tops $3.00 pair, Belcher Bros.
o Peoples column: For Sale the former residence of Mrs. J. H. Finch, 520 South Street, Woodstock, Price: $3,000.

YEAR-1915 (cont'd)
APRIL 23
WR, Page 5
• Hotel Woodstock, Sunday, April 25, 1915
Menu: Cream of Tomato Soup Celery, Pickles Chicken or Roast Beef Peas and Mashed Potatoes Combination Salad Ice Cream . Cake Coffee Tea Milk All for .50 cents
MAY 7
WR, Page 4
• Men's athletic union suits, special $4.50, J. P. Alt Clothing Co.
MAY 14
WR, Page 1
• Organize Golf Club. Members and friends of Businessmen's Association form Golf Club.
JUNE 18
WR, Page 1
o 25 young people in graduating class at high school.
JUNE 25
WR, Page 1
• Horses for European War at the Novelty Tie Barn, Saturday afternoon. Twenty-two horses that had been purchased by John E. Diedrich of Peotone, Illinois, from Frank J Flood on behalf of the British Government and are intended for the artillery service in the war zone. Advertisement for above sale, WR, June 18, 1915, Page 4.
OCTOBER 29
WR, Page I
• J. J. Stafford receives new Chicago Motor Hearse. Silver gray with mahogany interior, 35 hp engine.
WR, Page 8
• Wien's Department store advertised suits $12.50 to $35.00; dresses, serges, gabardines (sic), poplins and silks $5.00 to $20.00; and men's klosed krotch union suits, wool or cotton, $1.00 to $3.50.
WR, Page 1 and 3
• Congregational Church to present musical comedy, "Billie's Bungalow" at Opera House in November. Tickets .25, .35, and .50 cents


YEAR -1915 (cont'd)
OCTOBER 29 (cont'd) WR, Page 2
• McHenry County State Bank and The State Bank advertises savings accounts at 3% compound interest.
WR, Page 2
• V. D. Sherburne's advertises Ford Runabout at $390; Touring Car $440; Town Car $640 FOB Detroit.
WR, Page 5
• Princess Theatre advertises a different movie every night for 6 nights including Lillian Lorraine in "Neal of the Navy" on Wednesday and Marie Dressier and Charles Chaphn in "Tillie's Punctured Romance" on Saturday.
NOVEMBER 26
WR, Page I
• Woodstock receives new auto fire truck, (photo)
YEAR-1916
• Christian Science Church established, "Our town has long history" news article by Fred Pratt, 6-18-52.
• St. Mary's Grade School established.
JANUARY 14
WR, Page 1
o A. J. Olson in movies. Popular local mayor and senator does a bit of acting on Chicago skyscraper. Appears in Pathe Weekly presenting the new cub mascot to Charles Weeghman, Chicago National baseball magnate (picture in Book 11).
JANUARY 24
WR, Page 4
o Notice: I hereby forbid anyone selling or giving cigars, cigarettes or tobacco in any form to my son, Kenneth Smith. Hiram Smith.
FEBRUARY 4
WR, Page I
• Country Club Dance, The Woodstock will give its first annual ball at the K.C. Hall this Eriday evening.
MARCH 10
WR, Page 3
• Notice to Auto Owners: Automobile licenses for 1916 must be placed on all cars at once. This should have been done the first of the year. Unless auto owners now comply, they will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. By order of S. J. Ogle, Chief of Police.

YEAR-1916 (cont'd)
MARCH 17
WR, Page 4
• Ad reads:
Millers Strand Theatre, Saturday, March 18, Daniel Frohman presents Mary Pickford in an unusual characterization "Little Pal." Matinee: 3:00 p.m. - 5 & 10 cents, 7:30-9:00 - 10 cents to all.
APRIL 7
WR, Page I
• Borden plant closed. Milk producers shut off supply and officers of company close doors.
MAY 12
WR, Page 8
o Notice to owners of dogs: People owning dogs must either keep them tied up or muzzled. All dogs running on the streets without muzzles after May 20* willbe; shot.
JUNE 18
© US National Guard Company "G" 3rd Illinois infantry, home station Woodstock, called to the Mexican border by President Wilson to stop raids into the U.S. by Mexico.
JUNE 23
WR, Page 1
• 32 receive diplomas, commencement exercises for graduates of Woodstock H.S. Thursday.
AUGUST 11
WR, Page 5
• Peoples Column: For Rent - Barn Room suitable for automobile. Inquire of C. M. Curchill, 616 Clay Street, telephone, 104M.
YEAR-1917
JANUARY 4,
WR, Page 1
© Headline reads:
6 Harvard bootleggersin toils of law, Bootlegging and illicit liquor traffic are charges against the 6 defendants.
JANUARY 19
WR, Page 5
o Classified ad reads:
Automobile storage, I am prepared to store cars in well-heated quarters In garage at 206 Washington St. $4.00 per month for live cars and $3.00 for dead.
to

YEAR-1917 (cont'd)
JANUARY 26
WR, Page 1
• Company "G" will soon be home. Third regiment has received orders to move to Fort Sheridan. Soldiers have been on the border of Mexico since last July.
FEBRUARY 22
WS, Page 1
• Company "G" returns from duty on Texas border. Woodstock extends her soldier boys a hearty welcome home. Big Reception at Armory. W.R.C. ladies serve sumptuous banquet.
WS, Page 6
• Ad reads:
Take care of their eyes. Modern gas light, under which they can study their lessons, may save your children from eyestrain, headaches, glasses, and even more serious nervous troubles. Western United Gas and Electric Co.
MARCH 2
WR, Page 1
® St. Mary's Parochial School building completed. Dedication will take place soon after Easter with appropriate ceremonies. Total cost is $38,042.40. School has 4 teachers giving instruction up to 6th grade.
APRIL 3
WS, Page I
• Headline reads;
Woodstock people must build more houses. Oliver factory will be enlarged to provide much larger typewriter output.
WS, Page 6
• Classified ad:
9-room house for sale, hot water heat, convenient for 3 families, brings in $20.00 a month rent. Price $1,800.
APRIL 6
WR, Page 1
• US at war with Germany. Congress authorizes president to enter US in war on side of the allies. House passes war resolution by 373 - 50 vote.
MAY 1
WS, Page 1
• Federal oath is administered to Company "G" members. Requires 3 years in service and 3 years in reserve. Fifteen recruits volunteer. Drills to be held Tuesday afternoons and evenings.
MAY 15
WS, Page 6
o V. D. Sherburne advertises per gallon.
Red Crown gasoline $.19 per gallon, Ford special oil $.40

YEAR 1917 (cont'd)
MAY 22
WS, Page 8
• Draft: President sets Tuesday, June 5, as registry day, all men between ages 21 and 31 Inclusive must register. Hours are 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; only men already in service need not appear.
MAY 25
WR, Page 1
• 1917 graduating class to number 30 students at Woodstock High School.
MAY 29
WS, Page 1
• Woodstock Red Cross Chapter is organized. Officers elected and plans laid for Red Cross work in Woodstock.
JUNE 12
WS, Page 3
• In McHenry County, for possible war service, a total of 3,016 registered for draft.
AUGUST 3
WR, Page 1
• Company "G" boys are mustered in to US Service. Expect call to camp at any time.
AUGUST 21
WS, Page 1
• Deal for Post Office site will be closed today. City Council passes Ordinance accepting ground for a continuation of Johnson Street and the new Post Office site on the southwest corner of the public Square.
OCTOBER 23
• First-American shots fired in WWI.
YEAR-1918
JANUARY 25
Woodstock Bicentennial Calendar - 4.
® Moose Lodge in Woodstock organized.
MARCH 21
WR, Page 2
• Classified ad reads:
House and lot few minutes walk from either Oliver or Woodstock factories. Must be sold at once. City water, gas, bath - $2,600 cash or terms.
JUNE 6
WS, Page 1
• Ralph Park Wells first Woodstock overseas victim. Woodstock boy, member of 7th engineers. Officially reported dead by drowning.

YEAR-1918 (cont'd)
JUNE 20
WS, Page 1
• A class of 23 young men and women received diplomas of graduation from the Woodstock High School at the 40th annual commencement exercises held in the Woodstock Opera House last Friday.
JUNE 27 WR
• Ad reads:
Wanted 500 automobiles to participate in Grand Patriotic Parade, Woodstock, Illinois, July 4, 1918. All automobiles to be decorated with national colors. Three prizes will be given for the best decorated, 1st - $5.00, 2nd - $3.00, 3rd - $2.00.
AUGUST 23
• Article reads:
To tear up interurban Sycamore-Woodstock Gasoline Railroad is dead - property junked. The road will be torn up and abandoned.
SEPTEMBER 12
WS, Page 1
• Article reads:
Hundreds gather to pay tribute to dead soldier. Mlitary funeral services held for Corporal Eugene Perry Gribel.
SEPTEMBER 19
WR, Page 2
• Article reads: 3925, 18-45 men, registered in McHenry County. Woodstock's three precincts totaled 641; board registered 103.
WS, Page 8
• First annual plowing match huge success. Some fine samples of plowing by progressive farmers of McHenry County. Big tractors demonstrate.
NOVEMBER 7
WS, Page 1
• Headline reads: -i :
Woodstock goes wild with joy. Whistles blow, bands play, crowds carry flags, parade when peace news comes. German peace envoys enter allies line under white flag.

YEAR-1919
JANUARY 10
WA, Page 1
• Clarence Darrow speaks to large audience Sunday at Opera House. Former McHenry County lawyer tells of experience on visit to battlefields.
JANUARY 16
WS, Page 1
• Death of Theodore Roosevelt mourned in Woodstock. Born October 28, 1858, died January 6, 1919. Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Service. Judge Barns and States Attorney Lumley speak at large meeting Sunday morning.
APRIL 10
WS, Page 1
• Article reads:
City cannot grow if more houses are not provided! Every house in Woodstock is occupied and many on waiting list. Factory prospects growing.
APRIL 11
WR, Page 3
• Tax on ice cream effective May 1. Ten percent to be paid by the customer. Will take rapid calculating.
MAY 29
WS, Page 1
• Headline reads:
Homecoming celebration June 10. Woodstock to welcome all returned heroes in uniform from McHenry County.
MAY 30
WA Page 1
». Headline reads:
Tuesday, June 10, date set for homecoming event. One thousand uniformed men to be city's guest this day. New significance to Memorial Day by boys' return. Rev. R. C. Kaufman makes crosses to represent graves of county's 56 dead.
JUNE 12
WS, Page 1
• Headline reads:
Woodstock acts host to County. Cheering crowds greet marching ranks of uniformed men of McHenry County. Article reads: Largest crowds cheer soldiers at celebration. Twenty thousand people make homecoming celebration greatest day in Woodstock history.
JUNE 19
WS, Page 8
• Article reads:
Commencement calendar ends school year. Closing exercises held in Opera House, Friday evening, June 13. Fourteen students in graduating class of 1919.


YEAR-1919 (cont'd)
JUNE 26
WS, Page 2
• Ad reads:
V. D. Sherburne offers new price, Fordson Farm Tractors, manufactured by Henry Ford & Son, $750 F.O.B. Dearborn, Michigan.
AUGUST 14
WS, Page 1
• Union organized by men. Strike - Woodstock factory shuts plant. Prospects for early settlement not good. Employees demand more pay, shorter hours of labor - 8-hour day and 44 hours per week with 10 hours pay (Woodstock Typewriter factory).
SEPTEMBER 26
WA Page I
• Article reads:
Strike is off. Woodstock men return to work. Nine-hour day to be put in effect as soon as possible.
SEPTEMBER 27
City of Woodstock Appt. Calendar - Library, Local History - Woodstock © American Legion formed in Woodstock.
DECEMBER 4
WS, Page 1
• Woodstock's first schoolhouse built in 1867 was destroyed by fired December 2, 1919. Building served over half century.
• School opens the next Monday. Murphy Home to serve for use of primary pupils. George L. Murphy tenders use of vacant residence on Jackson Street.
• Coal shortage hits both city and factory power plants. Oliver plant compelled to close down last Saturday. Over 1200 employees out of work until coal shortage is relieved. Business houses close daily at 5:30 p.m. except on Saturday to save city's coal supply.
DECEMBER 11
WS, Page 1
• Headline reads:
Soft coal miners strike ended. Miners vote to accept Wilson's proposal. Oliver plant starts work Friday.

YEAR-1920
JANUARY 2
WA, Page 1
o Article reads:
Saloonkeepers and truck drivers draw heavy fines for illegally transporting intoxicating liquors over the highways of this county.
WA, Page 3
• Article reads:
Farms lighted by electricity. Old lantern and oil lamp are no longer part of equipment of modern farm.
JANUARY 9
WA Page 1
• Article reads:
Hospital makes record; but four deaths in a year. Number of patients cared for totals 188. Twenty-one babies born during year 1919.
MARCH 5
WA Page 1
• Article reads:
Shoots fine coon. Harold Schmidt, Woodstock High School lad, shot a coon on last Sunday while hunting near Ridgefield. The coon measured 3 feet in length.
APRIL 1
• Article reads:
Census gives 5,523 to Woodstock. Woodstock population has increased 27.5% during the past 10 years.
MAY 13
WS, Page 1
• Article reads:
Purchase school site. The committee for purchasing the site for the new Community High School report considerable progress made. The 8-acre tract known as the Putman has been purchased from its former owner Chas. Stratton Consideration for $9500.00.
JUNE 17
© Article reads:
Woodstock High School - 26 students close school days with 1920 graduation. The class of 1920 receives their diplomas at the program given in the Opera House on Thursday.

YEAR-1920 (cont'd)
JULY 29
• Article reads:
How it feels the first time you're up in the clouds. Cub reporter tells of his experiences in aeroplane ride. "Woodstock looks like a toy village; just like a set of blocks such as we used to play with when we were boys." Sentinel's reps from y>m/^^l^^^'WS^^ three airmetrw^bome into town with a big Curtis plane, landed in a fine meadow on John Schnett's farm just NE of Woodstock.
AUGUST 6 WA
• Digging of Woodstock's 2 new wells began Wednesday (Aug. 4).
• Two additional male teachers added to high school plus 3 from last year = 5 men on faculty. "Growth of faculty to include 5 men indicates a step upward ... to one of the best ... in a city this size."

1920 Continued
Aug. 12, WS Contract let to Geirtz & Son of Elgin for addition to Clay Street School- $33,300 (incl. Brick, steel work, carpentry, plaster, slate roofing). Plumbing, electric, decorating & heating contracts will be let separately to local men.
Aug. 19 WS Severe hailstorm last Thursday (Aug. 12) does serious damage-lots of window broken (200 windows at Woodstock factory, doesn't say which), roofs damaged; also windows at Todd School; corn that had looked to be a "bumper crop" now destroyed. Thurs. Sep. 9 WS Schools opened Tuesday (Sep. 7) with total enrollment of 975- 720 grade school pupils plus 225 high school. "Largest Enrollment in history of Woodstock" - Need more room!! (This is news??) (St. Mary's has 175, Todd has 108)
Thurs. Sept. 16 WS Temporary building ("wood with beaver board lining") for lower grades being erected just west of high school- $3,000. High school board members authorize purchase of 5 acres of Kellogg property on South Street for $1,200. Has already purchased 9 acres Session property (adjacent) plus house for $10,000. Next- develop layout of school plant. Oct. 22 WA Woodstock Milling Company expected to open for business on Oct. 25, "fashioned after the largest most modern milling concerns in the U.S." "Largest in this part of the country"-5 months to ready the building (pure unbleached flour, graham and whole wheat flour, breakfast food, cornmeal & chicken feed) Building was Cunningham Pickle Factory, close to railroad tracks; has 5 cleaning/cleansing operations - most mills have only one. "Incorporators are Wm. Bonslett of McHenry and David Smiley of Woodstock; brand name is "Perfection". Oct. 28 WS Large gathering of farmers/ members of local milk producers Assn at courthouse to find out why they were forced to take a 10% paycut- most of all due to overstock of condensed/canned milk since end of war (no longer huge quantities being exported to Europe, etc.); many condensing factories being bought/consolidated/closed; farmers not happy. Nov. 18 WS First Jury of Women in County (!!!) Serving this Thursday morning before Judge Barnes at courthouse in Woodstock (for case of 80-year-old Mrs. Laura Goff of Crystal Lake "as to her competency to handle her affairs") (This is great!!!) "Instead of the usual picking up of a jury of six men from among the loungers around the courthouse, Judge Barnes ordered that a jury of women be empaneled, believing that women could more correctly determine the case on trial. Also, Friday night will be a big "house warming" for the new American Legion Hall, formerly the Joslyn Hall, "entirely made over, redecorated, & refurnished". "Tickets $1.00 and war tax,." Nov. 25 WS "That such dances as 'the shimmy' will not be tolerated at parties given by the American Legion in Woodstock was proven to the dismay of one of the dancers last Friday night when he was politely but firmly ejected from the hall after failing to heed the admonishment to "cut it out"" 100 couples attending; overall -"The whole affair was_a splendid success." Dec. 2 WS "Victory Arch" which spans Main Street at the Square to be taken down; was put up "to welcome home our boys-it has fulfilled that purpose". Also, never intended to be permanent- one side built over fire hydrant; also a danger to automobilists as their cars have skidded into the columns on wet days; column on west obstruct driver's view...(erected about a year and a half ago).
Dec. 9 WS Petition presented to city council asks that "Victory Arch" be kept/left up "City Dads" say no (reasons above).
Dec. 31 WA Tax rate for Dorr township and Woodstock to be $6.21 per assessed valuation of each $ 100 worth of property. Increase of $ 1.60 over last year.



1919 1920
State .40 .40
County .24 .25
Township .07 .07
Road & Bridge .66 .59
City 1.38 1.48
School 1.86 1.78
High School -- 1.64
Totals $4.61 $6.21

1921
Fri. Jan 7 WA Information filed at courthouse, 5 counts charging Jim Eckert, Woodstock "with operating a gaming house" - craps, violation of Illinois law. Home on Newell Street was scene of recent "holdup" that was questionable - some didn't know if it was a prank or ??, but several hundred dollars were taken. Also, Price for milk for January 42.50 per 100 lbs.; Dec. 1919 was $2.60; cut due to "large surplus of milk", this is the lowest price in the history of the "marketing company" (Milk Producer's Cooperative).
Jan. 21 WA Article by Mrs. John Whitworth, president of Woodstock's Penny Mite Society tells some of their history and benevolent accomplishments as this year marks their 25th anniversary. Started with idea of putting aside 1 cent per week or "yearly amount of 50 cents'. Also, Stores on square to have "Million Dollar Sale Jan. 25, 26 & 27.
Jan. 28 WA Third anniversary banquet for woodtock's Moose Lodge (Zoia Building). Also, need for more space at high school.; extends day from 8:15 with classes continuously in session until 3:30- 9 periods (instead of ?). Also, Price for milk for Feb. down 15 cents to $2.35 per 100 lbs.
Feb. 4 WA Article about people who "have moved from Woodstock to farm homes in this vicinity: (This is of interest because 10-15 years ago they would routinely write a column about who moved from the farm to the city (Woodstock)). Also, Woodstock has raised $1,578.93 for "Europe & Near East" relief efforts in campaigns conducted by churches , "Woodstock has spirit of altruism and self-sacrifice." Also, Western United Gas. Co. now supplying "carbureator water gas" rather than "coal gas"; "adjust your burners."
Feb. 11 WA Library record for January- largest figures ever: Visitors- 3347, volumes loaned 2999, fines paid $17.30, (plus $7.00 from non-residents' withdrawals of books). Feb. 18 WA Petition filed at courthouse to condemn property of Mrs. M.A. Buck on South Street for site for high school. (Woodstock Community High School) because she couldn't reach agreement with city for compensation for her property. "All that is modern and desired in school architecture" in plans for 2 new schools. New grade school to be built on Dean Street. Also, Mrs. Alice Kellogg owns land where Woodstock hospital is located- but selling -to hospital association for $8500; this will allow hospital freedom for improvements. Feb. 25 WA "Back to farm movement quickened". "Real Estate men state slack work in factories as a cause. Also, last city council meeting, motion approved for "10% reduction, effective March 1, in salary of all appointive city employees" (city auditor, electrician, engineer, chief of police, policemen, street workers, etc., but not those at powerhouse "who were given a huge salary decrease in January. (Police from $100 to $90 per month.) Does not affect aldermen, mayor, clerk, attorney, treasurer as their compensation "fixed by ordinance" (doesn't


say why?)
Mar. 4 WA Attorney D.R. Joslyn files bill to restrain condemnation of Buck's property (see Feb. 18).
Mar. 11 WA Chicago Motor Club establishes a branch in Woodstock; Joslyn & Joslyn to represent members when necessary; Goodrow's garage to do mechanical work. Also, School board will buy lot "on Dean next to Lawrence property" for home for Mrs. Buck and thereby end condemnation suit.
April 8 WA General contract for new Woodstock High School to Giertz & Sons of Elgin (seems like these guys built half of Woodstock!) For $182,800. "Considered reasonable by community high school board." Plumbing and heating to Ernest Ries of Woodstock, $44,000. Also, Bids for Dean School not decided upon yet, but opened and read " range from $89,650 to $89,917. April 5 WA "Huge" 106' water tower under construction at Woodstock typrewriter factory near completion. Will hold 75,000 gallons water- 50,000 for "power purposes" and "remaining 25,000 for ordinary work". Also, more residents moving from city to farms. April 22 WA "Old-timers state most severe storm Woodstock has ever seen in spring season" -last Friday, Saturday, Sunday couldn't get to town, trains snow bound, berry bushes and currants frozen, buds and branches knocked from trees, 8 foot snow drifts in places; one farmer - Thomas McGee of McGee Bros, farm north of town unable to bring his milk to town for first time in 40 years.
April 29 WA Red Cross will give $5000 (plus $ 1000 extra if needed) for "Isolation Hospital" to be located at south end of hospital property; with this building " doctor's state the Woodstock institution will be fitted to meet all emergencies", easier to control epidemics and "will increase hospital value". Also, "Seven English Leghorn hens owned by C. C. Moore of Hoy Avenue gave a total of 513 eggs in 90 days." (This was on front page.) January -March often referred to months when hens are on "egg strike".)
May 6 WA On Monday night (May 2) city council created "an important committee - the board of local improvements". Also, City Council meeting- Library asks for $2160 appropriation for coming year. Last year: Open 307 days, 352 new cards issued, 429 books added, 33,570 visitors and 28,169 book loaned. (Also 14 books destroyed because in homes with contagious diseases.) Library currently has 6912 books. "Room is too small"- "needs increase in quarters" May 13 WA Contract for Dean School to Giertz & Sons - $28,100 (??Very different from $89,000 in April 18 article??)
May 20 WA City council voted Monday night to do extensive road work repairs this summer and covers the street with "tarvia" - "Gravel will be placed on sections of Jackson and Judd which are not paved." Also, bids let for coal (6,000 tons at $3.00 per ton) and "city teaming" (??) -$165 per month".
June 3 WA "Aged Moonshiner Saws Jail Bars". James Mayfield, 77, ("ungovernable temper of a moonshiner") was arrested "months ago" for operating a still and selling moonshine and brought to county jail. On May 18 it was discovered he had sawed the bars in his cell in an attempt to escape. "At time of his hearing in county court, after receiving stimulation from a drink of apple jack he had manufactured, he related tales of his early life spent in the hills of the west with brothers of Jesse James" Jury found him guilty.
June 10 WA Milk prices paid to members o Milk Producers' Cooperative (17,000 members): June $2.05 per 100 lbs.; no increase from May; July $2.35 per 100 lbs. 25 cent increase. Also, At Monday City Council meeting, aldermen passed "all stores selling ice cream, soft drinks, etc.,

and restaurants must have a license", fee $25.00, public health office will do inspections. Also,ordinance passed to require permit of anyone doing electrical wiring installation must pass inspection by city electrician. City budge for the year "requires $205,160".
June 17 WA Contract for "Woodstock Contagious Hospital signed $5150 total (without furnishings).
July 1 WA Louis "Speed Cop" Blake with his "very powerful motorcycle" "officially began his duties" for which the city hired him last Saturday; "has already cautioned many motorists." July 1 WA "All stores in Woodstock will be closed on Thursday afternoon of each week after 12:30 o'clock during months of July and August."
July 15 WA American Manufacturing Co. with tool room on Dean Street, one door north of Woodstock American, began a few months ago an "has grown into a thriving manufacturing concern" -prparing to begin manufacture "on large scale". They make "Cross shock absorbers for cars- developed by Harry Cross who had worked for Oliver Typewriter. "Tested on more than 100 autos in this city"; company to incorporate for $100,000 and stock will be offered for sale. "Designed by Woodstock resident, manufactured by Woodstock toolmakers, made in Woodstock, tested by Woodstock motorists" "worthy of pride and interest of all Woodstock residents!" Also, bus line to begin July 25 will connect Woodstock with Marengo, Union, Hebron, Franklinville and Greenwood; daily trips except Sunday. "Woodstock Interurban Bus Line", H.H. Boshard will be manager. Also, Irish men of Woodstock organize "McSweeney Council"; O. Howell, president.
July 22 WA Dorr Assessor stats: Mules, 6, $600 value; sheep, 117, $490 value; hogs, 453, $4290 value; engines, 69, $21,110 value; carriages, 432, $6,090 value; autos 721, $177,500 valucand so forth. Total cash assessed value of personal property in Dorr $1,762,324. Also, "Many arrest by city's speed cop" - stopped and fined 9 on Saturday evening alone. Aug. 12 WA Due to "industrial inactivity", "Woodstock can get plenty of coal, but no money to pay for it" - opposite of last year; "no shortage of coal, but some mighty cold homes" - dealers say it's impossible to extend credit.
Aug. 19 WA At City council meeting Monday night: Ordinance passed for city to pay half of sidewalk expenses to encourage residents to fix the "many below grade" plus now require permit for sewer and water connections.
Sep. 9 WA City council passes ordinance: ice cream and soft drink parlors may remain open till midnight (instead of just 11 o'clock)
Sept. 16 WA "Old Landmark Wiped Out by Fire Sunday Night" - Ogle garage, formerly a livery stable, occupied by Ferhman Bros (doesn't say where in town- drives me crazy!!) Sept. 30 WA As an ad for Wien's store: Miss M. Benson "wore a suit of the new type of clothing"- knickerbockers on Woodstock square. "Remarks and appraising glances were many, especially from the male section." Also, New city "pressure pump" $3,000 will allow people on "edge of town/high ground" to "secure sufficient water". Pump will now "take care of the needs of the town with ease."
Oct. 7 Cross Shock Absorber Co. (was American Mfg. Co.??? ...See July 15) asks city to build them large plant/factory - they will rent, then buy > 10 years., expect to employ 150 men- city says okay $ 15,000. Also, New creamery, ice manufacturing plant and storage being built by A.J. Olson Creamery Co. on land adjacent to railroad at E. Jackson and N. Madison. Oct. 14 WAR.G. Curtis, International Typing Champion at 133 words per minute, using a Woodstock typewriter, gave demonstration at high school (using a Woodstock typewriter model

he had never tried before- blind folded(!) and typed 122 words per minute.) At least 30 different typewriter manufacturers have "prevailed" upon him, but he always uses Woodstock typewriter and wins competitions. Also, "Building Boom in Woodstock" in spite of talk of hard times -older homes being repaired and new ones built.
Oct. 21 WA "A Pied Piper for Woodstock". City council appropriated $300 toward a $600 fund to hire nationally known A.J. Seaver to rid the business district of rats! (Will use food, not music like the Pied Piper.) Also, People from Illinois Inspection Bureau in town to make inspections so a new fire insurance rate book can be written and issued for Woodstock based on rates assessed by the insurance companies. New pump at city water station and pump for fire engine triggered inspection and will be cause for rate reductions.
Nov. 18 WA Woodstock Typewriter announces " From this week on...will run full time. Members who have been laid off will return..."Demand for Woodstock Typewriters and orders have increased to and from all parts of the world (!) and United States.
Nov. 25 WA "200 Additional Workmen Sought by Woodstock" (typewriter company only?) Dec. 2 WA Frost & Co. of Rockford compiling data for publication of complete business, residence and classified Directory of Woodstock- 2000 copies to Commercial Club (chamber?) free of charge. Last directory was 1916. Local women to begin gathering data. Cost of book is $700 to be paid for by ads.
Dec. 16 WA Penny Mite Society's Cookbooks "best published in Woodstock" - sales exceeding "greatest expectations." Also, Illinois Banker's Assn. notified Woodstock banks "that a deputy sheriff should be appointd at every bank to be on the job at all times" to combat robbers. Town should have "vigilance committee", shotguns in all buildings surround the banks. "A regular crew of four men should be stationed at sheriffs office with a high powered car awaiting their disposal at all times. (Good grief!)
Transcribed by jhmansfield June 2002 from material compiled by Lynn Nielsen.