All posts by Wes Reinke

Remember When: January 2017

Remember When

1892 Shakopee Courier

Jan. 7, 1892

Otto Derberger, ‘Bus and Liveryman, Shakopee, Minn. I will furnish for funerals in city Hearse, Hacks & Carriages at $2 each. In Country $4. Attend all trains. Apply at Conter House Stable.

Send your friends a Souvenir Spoon of the City of Shakopee, in sterling silver only. H. P. Marx.

To Rent.—The brick house in good repair, north of Mrs. Selcer’s, belonging to Miss Anna Koerner. For particulars enquire at Courier office.

Some people seem to think that the Shakopee pork factory has done Shakopee no good. This is a mistake. The factory, by paying out lots of money for pork, surely brings trade to town, and if the money is not spent here it is not the fault of the pork factory. There must be a screw loose somewhere else.

The sketch of Shakopee by Wm. Hinds of the Argus, just issued, in well written, on fine paper, good print, neat typography, and handsomely illustrated in colors with buildings and maps, with a few good likenesses of citizens, accompanied by biographical sketches. But, while it may not refer too much to the past, territorial and old settler days, it appears to have too little devoted to the present to be of much use as an advertising medium, even had it been published when expected by the Industrial Union, the spring, summer or autumn of 1890. Now however, our enterprises are located, obtained through other sources, and the sketch will better serve as a souvenir than an advertiser.

The only substantial figure in the Argus sketch of the Russ-Desk Jones company building is the Courier horse.

Choice sugarcured smoked Hams and Shoulders at the Packing House. All goods delivered free of charge in the city limits.

Jan. 14, 1892

House for Sale or Rent in the 1st ward. Chas T. Wampach.

County Attorney Coller’s yearly report shows that in 1891, 39 criminal cases were commenced of which there were 31 convictions, 3 acquittals and 5 dismissals. Total cost of prosecution $479.71, fines and costs collected $479.22. Sentenced to state prison 1, county jail 8, fined 22.

Nat Kline, the old veteran soldier, killed a big wolf on Tuesday night north of Frank Reilly’s farm, among the corn shocks. Mr. Kline was hauling straw from Chewning’s place, when the wolf came within about 20 rods of the sleigh and began playing with a pup they had, and following the pup to the sleigh, when about 15 rods of Kline’s arm shot and struck her, and after running around in the field she dropped. The bounty was paid.

NOTICE to whom it may concern: Anybody detected committing a nuisance in front of my shop in the future, will be prosecuted to the limit of the law. Hubert Wagner.

Miss Hammond’s music class with a few friends held a surprise party and musicale at S. L. Hill’s millinery rooms, Thursday evening. The singing was excellent, refreshments were served and a pleasant and social time enjoyed by all present.

Jan. 21, 1892

Prof. Raymond of Minneapolis, held a meeting at the Union school house Wednesday evening to make arrangements in regard to forming a singing class here.

In consequence of Messrs Ferguson and Dunham leaving the mill, head miller C. W. Newell has been extremely busy for the past few days. But he’s a worker.

Old Settlers, Henry Hinds has accepted an invitation to speak upon his European trip, at the meeting next Tuesday.

Jan. 28, 1892

It would be a very good idea if the parents would visit the schools occasionally. It would be an encouragement to teachers and scholars.

An invitation dance will be given on Thursday evening, Feb. 4th at Weiland’s hall, by the Young People’s Social Club. It promises to be a grand affair and well attended.

1892: Scott County Argus

Jan. 7, 1892

C. I. Case, our insurance agent, informs us that he intends to remove with his family to California.

Henry Deacon went to Jordan Monday to secure coopers for the shop here. He secured two, making a total of fifteen men now at work. The mill used 1,700 barrels last week, besides sacking a large amount for the want of barrels.

There is a general complaint in the heart of the town over the scarcity of well water. The new well at the mill, which furnishes such an abundance for the condenser, seems to seriously affect the wells along First street. Another argument for the elusive water works system.

Jacob Ries, of the bottling works, has issued an attractive little pamphlet describing the merits of his sparkling and effervescent temperance beverages. Every year Mr. Ries adopts some unique way of advertising his superior goods, and he finds that it pays.

Jan. 14, 1892

Dr. H. O. Smith is drawing the ribbons over a new trotter.

Owing to a break in the engine boilers the mill shut down for repairs. First street linen will probably next week appear as white as the proverbial driven snow.

Mr. J. Deutch, of St. Paul, has opened a Gent’s Furnishing Store in the vacant half of Mergen’s block.

The “Sketch of Shakopee” is on sale at the post office and Argus office. Mail orders must invariably be accompanied by the price of the book and postage, 56 cents, for no accounts will be opened.

GREAT BANKRUPT SALE!—A large stock of men’s and boy’s clothing, gent’s furnishings, boots and shoes, must be sold at fifty cents on the dollar as soon as possible. Come to Mergens’ building, Holmes street, Shakopee.

There is some “talk” of getting up a dramatic club to present one or two good plays on the home stage. There is no reason why this cannot be done nor doubt as to the success of the venture. Shakopee has long been a peer among surrounding village in regard to “home entertainments” and with such timber as could be gathered up in the town its success would be foregone conclusion.

Jan. 21, 1892

Storm windows have been ordered for the Union School building. They will doubtless add materially to the comfort of pupils and teacher.

Gustave Ramlow, a contractor and builder in St. Paul, was in this city on Friday last to make arrangements with Herman Schroeder for another large amount of brick to be used in the city buildings.

Every once, or twice, even, in a while a big brown box-car of the H. and D. road adorns the sidewalks on Lewis street. It would seem as though life was too short to allow much time being spent in trudging around such obstructions. A little more care in switching would remedy the nuisance.

John Gentgen is agitating a scheme for introducing here an elaborate bathroom in connection with his barbershop. His plan is to have subscribed $150, which will be payment in advance for baths at the rate of six for one dollar. The bath outfit is to cost about $200. This is a move in the right direction and should meet with the endorsement of all, for if there is any one thing that Shakopee needs more than another it is a convenient system of baths.

On Sunday evening, with the thermometer at ten degrees below zero, it was not a very cheering call that the fire-bell sent out to our volunteer firemen. Never-the-less they responded with a will, only to find a chimney in the brick-veneered dwelling at the corner of Second and Sommerville streets burning out in a modest and harmless manner. Too much cannot be said in regard to false alarms. Everybody is familiar with the story of the young sheperd boy and the wolf. In a town where each is dependant on the other in such an emergency and all feel in duty bound to help when necessary, the privelege of the fire alarm should be used most sparingly and only when actually necessary. We have been very fortunate in this respect in the past. Let us not fall into error in the future.

Mr. Walter Thompson, of St. Paul, has moved to this city, having been engaged as second miller in the mill here.

On Wednesday morning occured the death of Simon Daniel, one of the oldest settlers in Scott Co., at his home on the corner of Fourth and Holmes streets. He had been suffering with a tumor for over a year and succumbed under its effects complicated with the grip.

Jan. 28, 1892

Miss Ley has resigned her position as bookkeeper in the office of the Minnesota Stove Co.

Mr. Chas. Yost has given up his purpose of learning the mounting trade in the stove foundry.

August Sawyer an employee in the mill, while out hunting on Sunday last, met with the loss of one of his fingers through the accidental discharge of his shot gun.

1917: Shakopee Tribune

Jan. 5, 1917

For Rent—Four nice rooms nicely located, electric lighted. Inquire of S. B. Ferguson.

For Sale:—The J. A. Wilder home and property adjoining. Inquire of Mrs. C. G. Bowdish.

Hard Coal $11.00 per ton, delivered. Interior Lumber Yard.

Sidney Dierberger bought a fine young team of horses last week to be used in connection with his auto livery.

Jan. 12, 1917

A bunch of the younger social set enjoyed a hike to the bluffs and a wiener roast last Saturday evening.

9c Sale at Bookstaff’s Variety Store NOW ON!

Jan. 19, 1917

Officer Doody Drops Dead. Last night at five o’clock Chief of Police John J. Doody was seen to fall prostrate as he was entering the City Hall, and when aid reached him he was lying inside the office and against the door unconscious. A hack was summoned, and he was taken home, where he passed away at a quarter before six o’clock. Dr. Fischer, who attended him, found him suffering from an attack of true bulbar palsy, and beyond medical aid. He was 69 years of age, but the picture of robust health and strength, and he had served Shakopee many years as its chief of police, and endeared himself to everyone by his cheery disposition and faithful service. An obituary notice will be published next week. Funeral services will be conducted Sunday afternoon at 2:00 from St. Mary’s church, under direction of the C. O. F.

There is a well-defined rumor that Shakopee has won that Woman’s Reformatory, but the announcement cannot be made until the middle of next month, when the choice of the Board of Control will be made public.

The ice harvest is on and John Heller has several teams busy, filling his ice house for next summer’s use.

Jan. 26, 1917

Mr. Smith reports that a canning outfit is to be ordered for the Canning club work in the spring. The club is open to both boys and girls and it is hoped the young people will be interested in this work. The aim is to teach the methods of canning all kinds of fruits and vegetables in both glass and tin. This work has been successfully carried out in most schools of the state.

High School Notes. A large new gong was installed in the school the first of this week, the old one being too small to be heard in all parts of the building. It is used as a tardy bell and fire alarm.

Destructive Fire

A destructive fire occurred here early last Tuesday morning which consumed the entire general merchandise stock of J. S. Bredahl and the household furniture and personal effects of the proprietor who occupied the rooms above the store. The alarm was turned in at 3 a.m. Owing to the extreme cold weather, work of fighting the fire was rendered difficult, and it was seen at once that the structure and its contents were doomed. It is the belief that the fire was due to a defective electric wire. Mr. Bredahl estimates his loss on stock and personal effects at $8000 with $6500 insurance. Harry Broekhuizen who conducted a shoe repair shop in the rear of the building suffered a loss of $250 on his machinery which was covered by insurance. Mr. Broekhuizen was the first on the scene after the alarm and managed to save all shoes, which were in for repair.

Miss Elizabeth Ries, owner of the building states that her loss is $6500, with $4000 insurance. Her plans, as to rebuilding are not as yet complete. Mr. Broekhuizen will move his machinery in the Beckrich building east of the Gem theatre and will be ready for business by Monday. He requests us to state that all parties having shoes in for repair before the fire may call for same at his new quarters.

Mr. Bredahl is undecided as to his future plans.

1917: Scott County Argus

Jan. 5, 1917

The Home Economics club will meet January 18th with Miss Elizabeth Ries. Miss Agnes Peterson, superintendent of the state Bureau of Women and Children, will speak on the subject “The Community’s Duty to its Children”.

The Cadet Band was reorganized Wednesday evening under the leadership of J. H. Stans and will meet for practice twice each week. Bert Feldmann was elected president and August Lebens, treasurer.

Jan. 12, 1917

FOR SALE. I will sell for cost price all overshoes and rubbers, men’s, boys’ and children’s also women’s and misses’ and various articles. Carl Exner, Shoemaker.

Mrs. Kate Leidgen was granted a divorce Tuesday from John Leidgen, who is now serving a term in Stillwater for attacking her with a knife.

F. M. Painter and family of Elmore have moved into Mrs. James McHale’s house on First street. Mr. Painter is employed by the Omaha road at the freight depot.

Jan. 19, 1917

Moving Pictures next Wednesday, January 24th, at the Gem theatre for the benefit of St. Rose society. “The House of a Thousand Candles.” Everybody see this interesting photoplay.

The J. M. Spindler family have moved back into their old home on Fourth street.

K. T. Corty is the new superintendent of the Minnesota Stove Works which resumed work Tuesday after a brief shut down while inventory was in progress. Mr. Corty’s family arrived Tuesday from Belleville, Ill., and are stopping at the Pelham hotel.

Joe Koeper’s team broke loose from his milk sled Tuesday and indulged in a run around town with only the front runners attached to them. The sled was badly damaged, but little of the milk was spilled as the box containing the load slipped from the runners when the horses started to run and remained reposing upright in the street with milk cans intact.

FOR RENT—7 room house by March 16; 6 room house by May 1st. Both located on Fourth St. Inquire of Herman Boehmer.

Jan. 26, 1917

At a regular adjourned meeting of the city council Tuesday evening, J. B. Heller was elected chief of police to succeed the late J. J. Doody. Other candidates for the position were Geo. Huth and Peter Piske. C. A. Rose had no application before the council but received two votes on every ballot cast.

A real estate deal consummated Saturday was the purchase by R. G. Chapman of J. M. Spindler’s farm, comprising ten acres adjoining James E. Dean’s farm. The price was $4,000. A new home, practically built, and a modern chicken coop are already on the place. Mr. Chapman will complete the house at his earliest opportunity and move there to reside.

1942: Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Jan. 1, 1942

Chimney Fire. Shakopee firemen had a call to the Frank Hattenberger farm east of here Monday afternoon. A chimney fire in the farm home precipitated the alarm. No damage was reported.

Tire Rationing Plan Expected January 5. A complete rationing plan for tires and rubber products is being outlined by the Office of Price Administration and the Civilian Supply Division, OPM, and is expected to go into effect by Jan. 5. In the meantime, Donald Nelson, priorities director, has extended the new tire sale ban until Jan. 5, 1942…

Car Stolen, Recovered. The Heitzman car stolen on First street here, at 8 o’clock Saturday night, was recovered by the state highway patrol four hours later on Highway 169, between St. Peter and Mankato. Out of gasoline, the car was abandoned at the side of the highway.

Defense Plant Gets Another Government Contract for Army. Bringing the total to 65,000 an additional government contract for 25,000 grates and shakers for army stoves has been received by the Kienzle and Merrick company here, officials disclosed…

Governor Sets Date for Answer on Removal Plea

Governor Harold E. Stassen has set January 5 as the date for the return of the answer to charges, in the removal complaint filed with him against Municipal Judge Peter J. Schwartz, it was announced.

The complaint, signed by Sheriff J. P. Wermerskirchen and Arthur Busse, deputy sheriff, charges Judge Schwartz with malfeasance and nonfeasance, and alleges that he refused to sign search and seizure warrants when presented to him by the sheriff and his deputy.

Jan. 8, 1942

The American Legion Auxiliary, who made a drive for books at Christmas time, is grateful for the generous response afforded them by the public. Sixty-two books were delivered to the N. Y. A. camp and 34 were given to the Boy Scouts for their delivery.

House Nears Completion. Construction of a six-room home for Joseph L. Link of Jordan, is nearing completion on Sommerville street, between Sixth and Seventh streets. The story and a half frame structure, of modern architectural design, has four rooms downstairs and provision for two upstairs. Mr. Link, it was learned, plans to sell or rent the house.

U. S. Engineers Give Local Defense Plant O.K. for High Rating. The Kienzle and Merrick defense plant here was given a “high rating” by two government engineers who recently inspected the plant, company officials disclosed this week…

Meeting of First Aid School To Be Held Friday Evening, Jan. 9. The first meeting of the First Aid school, scheduled to be held Thursday evening, Jan. 8, has been postponed to Friday evening, Jan. 9. The meeting will be held in Shakopee high school at eight o’clock and promises to be of vital interest to all participating in the work…

Delegation of Marystown Citizens Met With the County Board Monday. A delegation of Marystown citizens appeared before the Scott county board Tuesday morning to make a request for further consideration of County Highway No. 5. The specific request was for the completion of about one and one-half miles to connect with Highway No. 14…

To Show Canoe Trip Films at Presbyterian Church. Under the sponsorship of the Presbyterian Ladies’ Aid the motion pictures of the canoe trip John Kline and Robert Miller took to Hudson Bay will be shown at the Presbyterian church here at eight o’clock tonight…

Starts New Year With Fire.—Damage $250

An early morning fire in the Kohler confectionery here on New Year’s day resulted in damages estimated at $250.

According to Conrad Kohler, owner, who was awakened by the smoke at 7 a.m., the fire was caused by a faulty chimney.

Prompt action of the Shakopee Fire department prevented what could easily have been a more devastating blaze. Wall cabinets and ceiling in a kitchen in the store, suffered greatest damage. Smoke and water damage was slight, it was said…

Shakopee’s Oldest House Threatened by Night Fire

The Manaige home, Shakopee’s oldest residence, in East Shakopee, was threatened by a chimney fire early Monday night.

Fortunately no damage resulted despite a strong wind. Firemen, summoned to the scene, checked the threat promptly.

Destruction of the house would have meant the passing of the city’s oldest landmark. The house was built by Oliver Faribault, pioneer settler, in 1844.

Aliens Must Surrender Radios, Cameras To Law

Sheriffs and municipal police officers received instructions this week regarding enemy aliens possessing radio transmitters, short-wave radio sets, and cameras.

With the instruction was the order which stipulates: “An alien enemy who shall have in his possession any radio transmitting set, short wave radio receiving set or camera shall … deliver such set or camera to the local police authorities of the community in which he resides, at the place designated by such local police authorities. In each case the police authorities shall issue a receipt to the alien, suitably describing the set or camera. Local police authorities will return and release any camera upon production of the letter of the United States attorney permitting the alien enemy to possess such cameras.”

Sheriff Wermerskirchen has set January 17 as the deadline for Scott county.

Jan. 15, 1942

Judge J. J. Moriarty To Head Battle Against Polio in Scott County. Judge J. J. Moriarty will head the Scott county battle against infantile paralysis it was announced today by Arthur D. Reynolds, state chairman of the Committee for the Celebration of the President’s Birthday…

135 Enrolled for First Aid Work. With 135 Shakopee men and women registered for the 10-week course in first aid, it has become necessary to conduct the classes four nights each week, Red Cross officials, sponsors of the course, announced this week…

Jan. 22, 1942

Shakopee Subscribes $798 in Red Cross Fund Drive. Shakopee subscribed a total of $798.89 in the recent countywide Red Cross war fund drive, Dr. W. A. Pomije, local drive chairman, disclosed this week…

County Air Raid Head Appointed

The task of organizing a Scott county air-raid warning system, under the Civilian Defense program, is now in progress, W. B. Schroeder, newly appointed chief warden of the Aircraft Warning service for the county, announced this week.

Schroeder, full-time deputy sheriff, was appointed to the civilian defense post Sunday by W. R. Poehler, St. Paul, aide to the state adjutant general, in charge of the Aircraft Warning service…

Becomes Sole Owner of Rock Spring Cafe Here

Leonard Ayd announced this week that he has become the sole owner of the Rock Spring cafe and will continue to operate the business under his personal management.

The transaction in which Mr. Ayd bought the interests of his former partner, George Kellogg, was completed late last week. Mr. Kellogg’s plans for the future were not disclosed…

Jan. 29, 1942

Shak O Hi News

Last week during assembly Mr. Metcalf announced to the students the advantages of having a paper drive, both to our school and for our country. The students wholeheartedly agreed to give their utmost cooperation in undertaking this patriotic drive.

Next Monday and Tuesday morning the students are to bring their paper to school – it is hoped that each student might bring about 100 pounds. The instructions about the kinds of paper acceptable, and the method of packing it are posted on the bulletin board.

If it hoped that we can raise enough money, through this method to purchase jackets for our outstanding basketball team. If there is a remainder it will go toward buying a new screen for our movies.

1967: Shakopee Valley News

Jan. 5, 1967

Eagle Creek Twp. Million, Quarter Dollars ‘Richer’. Eagle Creek Township Building Inspector Gene Hartaus in his annual report to the Eagle Creek Town Board stated “this is a record breaking year as the 1966 report indicates more than a quarter-million dollar gain from industrial and commercial property values, and almost a million gain in residential real estate value.”…

Jan. 12, 1967

Faulty chimney was considered the cause of the blaze at 11:45 a.m. last Sunday, January 8, at the woodworking shop of Pat O’Connor, Shakopee builder, located in the O’Connor building between Mary Louise Hair Fashions and Beek King of Pizza, that called Shakopee firemen out in the height of the weekend blizzard. Considerable damage resulted from the burned out rafters, with the pizza parlor having considerable smoke damage. Firemen were successful in preventing the spread of the blaze and were given high praise by O’Connor for their quick response and efforts. It is reported a workman was in the building at the time the blaze broke out, and notified O’Connor who resided in the apartments upstairs in the building. Considerable used lumber stored in the rear storage area of the workshop was carried out to prevent spread of the flames. Shakopee firemen were at the scene for about two hours. The O’Connor building is located at West First and Fuller.

Beer Party Proves Costly To Group of Area Minors. Shakopee police officer John DuBois and Terry McGovern broke up a beer party at the Valley Haven Mobile Park, in East Shakopee about 12:45 early last Sunday morning, January 8, with seven boys and two girls apprehended, 3 of the boys being juveniles. The six others appeared in Municipal Court before Judge Isla Lindmeyer on Tuesday of this week and were fined. All are from the Shakopee area.

City Council Affirms $32,500 Appraisal of Old Flour Mill Site. Approved was a resolution by the Common Council of the City of Shakopee affirming the commissioners’ appraisal of the old flour mill property, located on North Lewis, just behind Montgomery-Ward, the figure being $35,200.

Utilities Request For City Land Use Prompts Meeting With Council Jan. 31. Request by the Shakopee Public Utilities Commission of the Common Council of the City of Shakopee to use the north five acres of a city-owned tract at Fourth and Naumkeag, the present East Fourth Avenue ball park with possible negotiation for the adjacent Halver property, has prompted a meeting for Tuesday, January 31, to be a conference between members of the Public Utilities Commission and the City council…

Jan. 19, 1967

New Elementary School Work Progresses Despite Blustery ‘Deep Freeze’. Construction of the new Edward and Grace Sweeney Elementary School, despite the swirling snows and howling winds of the past two weeks is coming along “very well”, according to Foreman Gene Henry of Keller Construction Co. of Winona with the August of this year completion date expected to be met…

Dr. Paul Nevin Heads State Dental Group. Dr. Paul F. Nevin, dentist of Shakopee with offices at First and Sommerville, was elected president of the Minnesota Academy of Practice Administration for the year 1967.

Seminary Shop Seeks Articles For Selling. The “This and That Shop” in the former retreat house at Highway 212 between Shakopee and Chaska, is seeking clothing and other articles that can be sold.

Blizzards Hit Shakopee In ‘Double Dose’ Fury

Shakopee area got the “double whammy” with another blizzard roaring in with wind velocities generally ranging from 25 to 60 miles per hour late Monday afternoon of this week, after shoveling out the previous one on the weekend of January 6 and 7 had just been added to the pages of history.

Aftermath of the blizzard the first of this week, that resulted in area schools being called off about 1:30 p.m. Monday and snow days observed on Tuesday and classes resumed yesterday, Wednesday, was the frustrations of the intense cold faced by motorists and ice fishermen alike, with yesterday’s temperature record at 30 below in the early morning and the “wind-chill” reading of 60 below zero.

Jan. 26, 1967

Expect To Occupy New Church on Easter. The congregation of the First Presbyterian Church of Shakopee expect to worship in its new edifice, located at the end of Shakopee Avenue on Scott County Road No. 17 (Spring Lake Road), on Easter Sunday, March 26, if new pews are installed by this time…

First January Thunderstorm In 58 Years Hits! First January thunderstorm in 58 years, since 1909, hit the Twin Cities and Shakopee area Tuesday of this week and gave harried moments both to motorists and utilities line maintenance men…

Shakopee’s Royalty To Be Featured Models At Rosary Style Show Feb. 4. Shakopee’s royalty will be among the featured models at the Annual Luncheon and Style Show, sponsored by St. Mary’s Society to begin at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, February 4, in St. Mary’s Hall…

1992: Shakopee Valley News

Jan. 2, 1992

DuBois leaves force but is not retiring

John DuBois said he had “no burning desire to be a cop” when he was recruited for the Shakopee Police Department 29 years ago by Pat Thielen, who was chief at the time.

“But after I got into it, I loved it,” said DuBois. “I liked the excitement about it, the chase of the hunt, so to speak.”

DuBois, the department’s deputy chief, retires from the force today, but he’s quick to add, “I’m not really retiring. I just feel it’s time to move on to something else. I’m looking forward to being in the private sector.”…

Jan. 9, 1992

County gets museum proposal from Stans. A proposal in which a museum containing memorabilia from the life of Maurice Stans, the Shakopee native who served in two presidential administrations, would be built by Stans and maintained by a local government in exchange for space in the facility, has resurfaced at the county level after being rejected by the city two years ago…

McWilliams named Canterbury’s GM. Canterbury Downs’ Acting General Manager Terry McWilliams was promoted to general manager of the Shakopee track on Jan. 2…

Jan. 16, 1992

Downtown Committee dissolved. The Downtown Committee, a subcommittee of the Community Development Commission (CDC) established in the 1980s to investigate options for redevelopment, will be dissolved following action by the Shakopee City Council Jan. 7. The CDC recommended that the committee be merged with the CDC…

Poole new deputy chef. Police Sgt. Jerry Poole, a 16-year veteran of the department, was appointed acting deputy chief by the Shakopee City Council Jan. 7. Poole will replace John DuBois, who retired earlier this month.

Familiar name in auto business to open dealership. A well-known name in car dealerships has moved into the former Dan Routson Motors at 1206 First Ave. in Shakopee.

Paul Walser and Mark Saliterman are busy remodeling the former Routson dealership’s showroom and have already filled its parking lot with vehicles preparing for Shakopee Chevrolet & Oldsmobile’s opening Feb. 1…

Group propose fund raising for track, football field

Although members of the Shakopee School Board are encouraging a citizen-formed Athletic Facilities Committee in its effort to raise funds for a new football/track complex at the high school, they are asking for more information and time.

The committee, consisting of community members and district staff, is proposing an initial fundraising project with a goal of $400,000. According to Bob Loonan, committee co-chair, the funds would be used for site preparation, a nine- or 10-lane all-weather track and new football field.

The committee would like to seek donations from corporations, civic groups, foundations and individuals, according to Loonan, who appeared before the School Board Monday. He indicated that the committee was waiting for board approval to go ahead with the project…

Jan. 23, 1992

Super Booked. Of the 400 hotel/motel rooms in Scott and Carver counties, only 10 – count ‘em – 10 were available as of Tuesday for Super Bowl stragglers this weekend. And by the time readers see this story those 10 probably will have vanished as well…

Jan. 30, 1992

Cities join forces to promote county for new, expanding businesses

A non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Scott County as an attractive location for new and expanding businesses has recently been launched. Barry Stock, assistant administrator for the city of Shakopee, is chairman of the organization.

The group, known as the Scott County Economic Development Coalition (SCEDC), has joined the cities of Shakopee, Belle Plaine, Jordan, New Prague, Prior Lake, and Savage to spearhead economic development efforts countywide…

The Night Watchman (July 1, 1893)

People

By David Schleper

According to Daniel M. Storer’s diary:

“The night watchman got shot at in the night. He saw a couple of fellows in an alley, and he called to them to halt, and they shot at him and ran. The ball went through his hat.”

(From The Diary of Daniel M. Storer from 1849 to 1905: A Pioneer Builder and Merchant in Shakopee, Minnesota by Shakopee Heritage Society, 2003, p. 197.)

When Professor Thomas Tristram Came to Town (1879)

People

By David Schleper

Professor Thomas Tristram and his bride, Theresa, came to town in the late summer of 1878. He had been in Bloomington, and moved to work in Shakopee. He was one of the most popular teachers in the public school during the year, and was re-employed for the coming year of 1879. The professor and his new pretty wife, Theresa Pearle Tristram, were very popular socially and much sought after.

But then the rumors started. “I told you so!” said one person in Shakopee. “I knew something was wrong!” said another.

And immediately, the professor left town and returned to Ireland.

The Argus newspaper on August 7, 1879 started to investigate. The Argus noted that Reverend William R. Powell had received a letter from Annie Tristram, who claimed that she was the professor’s wife. The letter noted that she had not heard from the professor since 1876 and expressed concern as “he was one of the kindest of husbands…”

Thomas Tristram was born in Ireland in 1843. At the age of 17, he married a lady six years his senior, Annie. Thomas claimed that he had been drunk before the ceremony and kept intoxicated during the service. (Good excuse!) He also claimed that his wife was unchaste before the wedding, and since then had been repeatedly broken her marriage vows. They had four children.

Thomas was not happy, and he escaped by immigrating to the United States…without his wife or his four children.

In the United States, he enlisted as a private in the army for five years at Fort Snelling. While in St. Paul, he met Theresa Pearle and after two years of engagement, they were married in Minneapolis on September 16, 1876.

About two weeks ago, Reverend William R. Powell received a letter from Dr. Knickerbacker of Minneapolis. He included a letter that was sent from Ireland by Annie Tristram, who explained that she had been waiting patiently and trusting in God. She explained that she had been waiting the last three years, taking care of the children, and had been struggling. She heard that Thomas Tristram was in Shakopee, and she needed to find out more.

Upon being confronted with the letter, Thomas Tristram confessed, and then quietly and rapidly left to rejoin his wife in Ireland.

The second wife, Theresa Pearle Tristram, was left to pick up the pieces. According to the Argus, Theresa was “terribly wronged, yet she trusts the man who so wronged her. She has forgiven him…” and refused to prosecute.

Thomas Tristram was a villain, a rascal, and a man deserving to spend his remaining years in prison. In the newspaper, the Argus noted that frail, pretty and innocent Theresa, with her broken heart, was thrown upon the cold, heartless world.

(Some information from Argus, August 7, 1879; and The Shakopee Story by Julius A. Coller © 1960 by North Star Pictures, Inc.)

Jesse James in Shakopee (1876)

People

By David Schleper

In September, three men, clad in linen dusters, drew up their beautiful horses in front of John Dean’s blacksmith shop to have them shod.

As the story goes, according to The Shakopee Story by Julius Coller II, the horses were shod backwards; such a request would not have greatly surprised Dean or his helper, who took the men for dudes from Lake Minnetonka. (Lake Minnetonka was a favorite resort for the wealthy and near wealthy Easterners.)

When leaving, the leader tipped the blacksmith very liberally. Because of this, John Dean generally believed that this man was Jesse James.

Jesse James
Jesse James

In any event, it was quite certain that the men were members of the James-Younger gang who a few days later attempted to rob the First National Bank of Northfield. In the street battle, the gang was driven from the town after murdering Joseph Heywood, the acting cashier of the bank.

Luckily, they did not attack the people of Shakopee!

(Some information from The Shakopee Story by Julius Coller, II, copyright 1960.)

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James-Younger Gang
James-Younger Gang

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Joseph Heywood
Joseph Heywood

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David Lennox How

People
David Lennox How

Compiled and written by David R. Schleper, 2022

David Lennox How was born in Elbridge, New York on Aug. 23, 1835. When he was twenty years old, David decided to strike out on his own. After two years in Adrian, Michigan, he headed down the Minnesota River to Shakopee in the new state of Minnesota.

On the Antelope, the slender town smokestacks belched smoke. On the decks were a mixture of cargo and passengers, including Indian traders and settlers-colonists. David, age 22, was writing in his diary. “The scenery,” he wrote, “is very beautiful and the foliage more forward than in Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, or Indiana,” noted in The Shakopee Storyby Julius Coller II, pages 619-628.

In 1858, David entered a partnership with Dr. Josiah Schroeder Weiser, owning a drugstore in Shakopee. The old drugstore later became Strunk’s Drug Store. David also worked on several projects, including a Jordan flouring mill, a mill in Chaska, and a large mill in Shakopee.

At age 27, David Lennox How married 18-year-old Mary Margaret Robeson Sherrerd in 1862. Mary was born Feb. 13, 1844 in New Jersey. Her parents were William Maxwell Sherrerd (1805-1868) and Sarah Leeds Sally Bartow (1819-1896). William ran the American Hotel in Shakopee. David and Mary moved into the commodious Sherrerd brick residence on Holmes and Second Street, which is now torn down and is currently the Deco apartments. It was then called the Hows’ residence, and the couple had one child, Jennie Sherrerd How (1864-1935). Mary was pretty, talented, and entertaining. David was always the center of social activities with grace, magnetism, and ready wit. David and Mary were popular at parties and dances.

In 1872, a fire broke out, and J.G. Butterfield lost a drafting set. In one hour, $350 was raised to buy him a new set. The money was given to Butterfield, after a nice speech from David.

On the morning of Sept. 21, 1873, Mary went to visit a friend. When Mr. How telephoned to find out when she would be back, she was not there. Meanwhile, J.G. told his friends in Shakopee that he was going to Vermont, but he didn’t. He wrote his wife a letter saying they would never see each other again. Mary left her husband and child, and J.G. left his wife and five children.

Mr. Butterfield and Mrs. How left the state separately but met in Chicago. Then the new couple went to New York, St. Thomas, Panama, California, and back to Chicago. The people in Shakopee had a field day discussing what may have happened.

After three months, and ten thousand miles by rail and ocean steamer, Mary arrived back in Shakopee. So did J.G. Mary returned to David, and J.G. left Shakopee with his wife and family.

As far as it is known, neither Mary nor David offered any information or explanation. They took up their lives. Parties started up again, and their child, Jennie, married Ernest Lionel Welch (1863-1934) on Dec. 2, 1885 at the Hows’ house.

On Dec. 21, 1893, twenty years later, Mr. How ate breakfast and went upstairs. Moments later a shot was heard. The family rushed upstairs. David was sitting in the chair, grasping a revolver. The discharge from the 38-caliber weapon entered the right temple. He was dead.

David had several business enterprises and may have been overwhelmed and overdrawn on his accounts. The community was shocked. The funeral took place at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church on Sunday, Dec. 24, 1893, and he was buried at Valley Cemetery in Shakopee.

Mary ended up in the cities, and on Feb. 9, 1899, she married Alonzo Phillips (1843-1932), son of John Wesley Phillips and Catherine Enslen. Mary died on Dec. 5, 1928 in St. Paul. Mary was buried in St. Paul. David had a plot at Valley Cemetery for her, but she did not get buried in Shakopee. Eventually, the plot was given to Sarah-Irène Faribault (1853–1924), a nurse and domestic servant at the Hows’ home, and her remains was interred in the plot reserved for Mary Robeson Sherrerd How Phillips.

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Aksel Axel Jørgensen

People

Compiled and written by David R. Schleper in 2021

Axel Jorgenson was born Aksel Jørgensen on December 1, 1818 in Gjerstad in Aust-Agder County in southeast Norway. Axel was the eldest of four sons and a daughter born to Jørgen Akselsen (1783- 1864) and Karen Margrete Nilsdatter (1794-1866).

In Oslo, Norway on April 28, 1850, Axel married a certain Ingeborg Marie, age about 31. Five days later, according to the Carver Historic District, the newlyweds boarded the brig Incognito in Christiania (Oslo) and arrived in New York City on July 13 or 17, 1850 with 132 passengers, by name probably all Norwegians, including steerage passengers Axel Jorgenson and Ingeborg Marie.

After the ship’s arrival in New York Ingeborg Marie is found no more in connection with Axel. Her fate unknown, most likely she died in the first year or two after arriving in America.

Jorgenson probably traveled America’s water routes, eventually making his way to the frontier territory of Minnesota sometime in 1850-1851.

Axel came to Minnesota territory and took preemption claim as a settler-colonist in Carver County, which allowed squatters to purchase up to 160 acres on Indian land. It gave him a toehold on townsite before claims could be legally settled. He “improved” the land with dwellings, warehouses, and stores, and thus were less liable to be taken over those who came along later. He picked a large parcel of choice land on the north side of the Minnesota River at the junction of the Minnesota River, Carver Creek, and Spring Creek, a site situated some 32 miles upstream from St. Paul.

Jorgenson there built a crude claim shanty house, which he loosely called a hotel, and situated it just above the Minnesota River bank on First Street near Broadway. The claim shanty was a 14’ x 18’ dirt-floored upright board and batten (or log) shanty “hotel” with four large windows. Said to have been called Hotel Luksenborg, it was intended to augment his business of hauling logs, lumber, and supplies to and from St. Paul on a barge in the Minnesota River, and is said to have also served as his home and blacksmith shop, according to Mark W. Olson.

Axel had a barge, an old, dirty, heavy, flat-bottomed boat, which could float downstream, but would have to be propelled with long poles to pull upstream.

Jorgenson seems to have offered prospective settlers free lodging and transportation from St. Paul up the Minnesota River to land around his claim area in return for them helping to propel his barge. It purportedly would take three long days of hard poling work against the river current to reach Jorgenson’s claim in the future Carver County.

Alex moved to Shakopee by December 1863. He worked doing clock and watchmaker repair work. According to a business directory for 1865, Alex was advertised as a watchmaker and jeweler on Holmes Street.

In Shakopee on June 6, 1868 Axel Jorgenson took out a marriage license and married Ellen Marie Oleson, an immigrant from Vadsø in Finnmark County in northern Norway who arrived in America in 1865. The couple lived in Shakopee for the first years of their marriage.

The 1870 United States Census for Shakopee mentions that Axel Jorgenson was a watchmaker and legal citizen of the United States with $2730 in real estate worth and $600 in personal property value, a tidy sum for the period.

Axel is listed in 1870 as being married to Ellen M. Jorgenson, age 30, who is described as a housekeeper and not yet a legal citizen. Both are listed as born in Norway.

In May 1871, Axel had lumber on the ground in Shakopee in preparation for building a one-story building for his jewelry and silversmith business.

In 1874, Axel and Ellen separated, but by 1877 the couple moved to Stockholm Township in Wright County, where they lived for the rest of their lives.

In late 1879 or early 1880 Axel and Ellen adopted a son who they named Axel Peter Jorgenson. Son Axel Peter was born in Stockholm Township on Nov. 9, 1879. The infant’s 29-year-old mother died 24 days after his birth, perhaps from childbirth complications, leaving her widowed husband with two other children to care for, so he let Axel and Ellen adopt the child.

In the 1870s and 1880s, Axel was engaged in cutting and selling lumber in Stockholm Township. Axel was one of many involved in the Minnesota Commission of Fisheries’ task of stocking various species of fish in many Minnesota rivers and lakes. During 1885, Axel stocked 40 carp on Feb. 6; on March 28 he and 13 others stocked 425 carp; and on Nov. 16 he stocked 20 carp.

In December 1886, Axel’s family home in Stockholm Township burned, destroying all his papers, notes, and other valuables.

Axel died in Stockholm Township about 1899. His widowed wife, Ellen Marie, lived in the eastern part of Stockholm Township where she owned a farm and served as postmaster, with her son, his wife, and a granddaughter living with her in 1900. Ellen Marie died on Feb. 10, 1910, at the home of her son Axel in Keystone, Polk County, Minnesota and was buried in the family plot in the Stockholm town cemetery after services at the Stockholm Lutheran Church.

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Vierling Cigar Shop (1862)

Places

By David Schleper

Henry George Vierling built a home in Shakopee after moving from Eagle Creek in 1862. It was built on Third Street, just east of St. Mark’s school.

Horse-drawn carriage in the 1890s, with L.A. Nachtsheim driving and Herbert Strunk and George Vierling in the back
Horse drawn carriage in the 1890s, with L.A. Nachtsheim driving and Herbert Strunk and George Vierling in the back

Several years later, Mr. Vierling added the Vierling Cigar Shop in the rear of the home. It was also a shoe shop for a short time. Louis Winters, a cigar maker, helped set up the cigar business with Mr. Vierling.

One of the most famous brands was the “Diamond-S” cigars. The cigars were advertised by a bit of home scenery, christened after a famous home brand of flour, and appreciated in Shakopee. The Vierling cigars were of such a uniformly good quality that they advertised themselves, and the factory had a flourishing trade not only in Shakopee, but in neighboring towns and in the Twin Cities. Mr. Vierling used the best fillers in the different grades, and returned to the factory all trimmings and other waste rather than use them to his profit and to the deterioration of his goods. Careful buying of stock, having workmen who were expert in the goods, and skilled management of the business brought a fair measure of reward.

Vierling Cigar Box
Above is a cigar box of Vierling’s, from Scott County Historical Society

And here is another view of the box:

Vierling Cigar Box

John Velz and Joseph Coller served as apprentices in the cigar making trade, though they did not follow the business. Henry George Vierling’s two sons, John and George Vierling, continued to manufacture the C.O.F. and White Lily cigars.

When John Vierling died, the old shop was abandoned as a cigar factory, but the house portion continued to be used as a residence. In February 1935, the house and business were torn down, destroying the landmark.

(Some information from Scott County Argus, October 7, 1897; and Shakopee Argus Tribune, February 21, 1935.)

Florence Courtney Melton (1857-1926)

People

Compiled and written by David R. Schleper, 2023

Florence’s parents, Levis Courtney and Mary Anne Ashbaugh Courtney and their six children left Ohio and travelled to Shakapee City, Minnesota Territory, where they lived for six years, starting in 1854.

Florence Courtney Melton told the story of her trip from Ohio to Washington on Feb. 24, 1929. The book was called History of a Pioneer Family. It was later donated to the Garfield County, Washington Historical Museum in Pomeroy, Washington.

The family took land nine miles from Shakapee City. “It was dense timber. Indians were as numerous as the squirrels. There was a lake about a mile from our claim.”

“It was September when they got started to work on their houses. They camped on the ground and the nights were quite cool. A neighbor who lived almost a quarter of a mile away had his cabin built. He offered to let the little girls sleep in his house. Mother used to take one boy with her and the girls. After they were tucked in bed, she would go back to the wagon where the other brother was watching Father. She did this for three weeks. She gave directions about the cabin.”

“The roof was covered with clapboards with logs to weight them down. There was a big fireplace at one end of the room; a small window by the door. The floor was made of small ash trees hewn on both sides and laid side by side; it was called a puncheon floor. Father took the adz and smoothed it; then went over it with a plane until it was almost as planed boards. Mother always said it was the whitest floor she ever owned!”

“That first winter was very long and lonesome. My father soon found he could not stand the cold weather. He and his brother Jake froze their feet every time they tried to work, but Baxter and Mary played out of doors with ‘Old Sorrel’ and a jumper sleigh. The runners made shafts and cross pieces held it together. A seat was fastened on. They played for hours, many a day, with the thermometer 20° below zero.”

The Indians taught the boys how to fish by cutting a hole in the ice and jigging fish.

“They could get necessary supplies at Shakopee, as it was a trading post established by the fur company…. There was a company of soldiers who came up on the boat our folks came on; they were stationed at Fort Snelling as protection to the settlers.

“The long winter came to an end. All was bustle and stir, clearing land, getting ready to plant a garden. Mother worked with the boys. Either that spring or the next, Baxter thought he could cut down trees equal to any man. He cut off one toe of one foot, and soon after cut three toes from the other foot. One toe hung by a thread of skin, the others were clear gone. Mother raised the scissors to clip it off, but he began to beg for it and cried.

“He said, ‘Don’t take them all away.’ She said, ‘All right, I’ll see if I can mend it.’ She fixed some splints and set it; it grew together as good as ever-never a thought of a doctor.”

Ṡakpe II, his wife and a two-year-old boy came to see Mary Anne. “He was very sick. She knew at a glance he had the mumps, so she helped them care for him. They spread their blankets in a corner by the fireplace.”

Ṡakpe II tried to get the baby to eat. He would smack his lips, and say, ‘chąhą́pi’ (sugar), but “the baby’s throat was too badly swollen. Mother fixed some soft food for him. They seemed very grateful, and many a mess of fish and venison were brought to us in return.

“When they had been there a short time, in Minnesota, Baxter and Mary grew very enthusiastic about teaching an Indian to speak English. He would say over after them in English after telling them in Sioux (Dakota). He had played with them for an hour or longer when they ran and put their arms on Old Sorrel and said, ‘Horse.’”

“He said in perfect English, ‘It isn’t a horse at all; it’s a mare.’ And then he laughed at them. They never gave any more lessons. The Indians would not speak English unless compelled to.”

In the spring, Florence helped her mother sheer sheep, wash the raw wool, and prepare for spinning, “Then Mother’s work began in earnest. She had it all to spin and cooker (dye) to send to the weaver.” Florence’s family owned sheep and made warm clothing out of sheep’s wool.

“The severe winters proved too much for Father’s health….To illustrate what the winters were like, the thermometer froze up the six winters we lived there, with the exception of one.

“The family became more dissatisfied with the cold and snow. They had an opportunity to sell the farm, and September 1860 saw us bound for Iowa,” said Florence.

Once they moved to Iowa, many of the male family members were enlisted to fight in the American Civil War. By May 1, 1868, they started their journey west again, first Oregon, and then to Washington, where they settled on Pahaha Flats near Pomeroy, Washington.

Florence Courtney Melton died Jan. 3, 1926, and was buried at Pomeroy City Cemetery, Garfield County, Washington.

Dr. Frederic N. Ripley: The First Doctor of Shakopee (1856)

People

The first physician was Dr. Frederic N. Ripley. He died in 1856 when he froze to death.

Dr. Ripley had a site near the Crow River. Dr. Ripley and Mr. McClelland started about March 1, 1856 from Cedar City en route for Forest City, for the purpose of obtaining supplies. When they were about halfway there, they lost the road, and wandered until Dr. Frederic Ripley gave out.

McClelland persevered, and at last found a cabin unoccupied. McClelland spent 16 days in this cabin, and only a pound of cheese and a quart of rice to live upon. His hands and feet became badly frozen, and had to be cut off.

Dr. Ripley, at the time of his death, was county commissioner of the new county of Meeker. He intended to make Cedar City his home, and was one of the principal proprietors of that town. He was supposed to be married in a short time to a highly estimable young lady of Minneapolis. The melancholy news had a crushing effect upon the poor lady.

(In other words, she needed a doctor!)

Dr. Frederic was 28 years old, and a native of New York, where he was connected with some of the first families. His remains were not found, and it was probable that the wolves had devoured him.

McClelland had a very hard time keeping the wolves off of him while in the cabin. McClelland was discovered by Messrs. Chapman and Moore of Glencoe while on an exploring expedition.

(Physician, warm thyself!)

(Some information from Shakopee Independent, April 2, 1856.)

Old Jenks and the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) Indians (1855)

People

In 1848 the U.S. government removed the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) from their reservation in the northeastern part of Iowa to Long Prairie in Minnesota Territory. The Ho-Chunk found the land at Long Prairie a poor choice to meet their needs as farmers. In 1855 they were moved again, this time to a reservation in southern Minnesota.

The Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) Indians stopped in Shakopee on May 31, 1855. They were removed from the Watab, on the upper Minnesota River, and forced to move to the Blue Earth reservation.

Ho-Chunk Leaders
Ho-Chunk Leaders, including Winneshiek II, second from left

The Winnebago Indians came down the Mississippi River, and then up the Minnesota River. The Braves, the woman, the children, their dogs, and the canoes all came, creating excitement wherever they stopped.

Several days’ delay occurred at Shakopee for some reason, and the fifteen hundred Winnebago Indians were camping along the Minnesota River near Shakopee. Some of the Winnebago came into downtown Shakopee, and several of them were getting drunk. The white people in Shakopee was afraid, as the number of Indians far exceeded the whites, and the whites were not close to Fort Snelling.

The white people in Shakopee noticed that some of the Indians were drunk, and they figured out that Old Jenks, a white man living in the town, was the one selling the whiskey to the Winnebago. After ascertaining that Old Jenks was dealing out the whiskey, nearly every white man in Shakopee joined in a procession that marched down to the amazing Old Jenks’s house at night and saw the liquor.

B. F. Davis, who headed the party with a hatchet, rolled out a barrel of whisky. He poured it out on the ground and set fire to it. Lots of other bottles and demijohns were broken. It was all destroyed.

After all of this, the nuisance effectually was abated.

(Some information from The Diary of Daniel M. Storer from 1849 to 1905: A Pioneer Builder and Merchant, p. 65; and History of the Minnesota Valley 1882 by Rev. Edward D. Neill, p. 294)