Q.977.3?a M436 Mattoon Memories : Souvenir program from Mattoon Centennial 1855-1955. iUINOlS HISTOWCAt SURVW Meni-o-rics, Mcm^o-ries. Q,977. tys. M436 M^TTOOH MEMORIES ou/e/7/r r r-^ro Ji ram MATTOON CENTENNIAL 1855 — 1955 jTO^ear?/^ anc/ Ce/e6ra/-/orL^ Sepfemher d-^/O PrkeSOf Days of long a - g'o \v> .w^' p\^ y^^^ O^^' lP^ THIS BOOK BELONCi lU Russell FreemoQ Shelbyville, Illipois A Progressive Bank K Progressive Community The Central IVatinnal Bank OF MATTOON 1805 Broadway Avenue — Just West of the Subway The Friendly Bank with the Drive-up Window Member F. D. I. C. An Expression of Appreciatinn ••^^^^jT^-r^j-r^i- \ - BOARD OF DIRECTORS Seated — (left to right) Urban Raef, Mrs. D. L. Tomlin, William Zur- heide, Mrs. Horace Champion, Glenn Stevens. Standing — James L. Warren, Dr. Horace Batchelor, William Whitson, Paul Morrison, Dr. Eugene Noskin, Craig Van Meter, H. B. Ewing. Not in picture — Mrs. W. L. Ford. When a community proudly undertakes to celebrate 100 years of its existence and to commemorate the deeds of those who have played a part in its founding and development, nothing is more important than the will- ingness of public spirited citizens to accept individual responsibility and of- fer their best in cooperation and sacrifices. Of equal importance is the will- ingness of organized groups to lend constructive force of combined effort. Now that the preparation period has come to a close and the celebra- tion is being enjoyed, the two little words, THANK YOU, sound inade- quate. However, because it is so justly deserved, and because of no better way to publicly thank all our people who have helped to make our Centen- nial a success, we repeat in all sincerity, "Thank You." Centennial Cnmmittees steering Conunittee Wm. Zurheide, Chairman Urban Raef. Co-Chairman Craig Van Meter, Secretary J. Paul Morrison, Treasurer Members of the Board Rev. H. Batchelor H. B. Ewing Dr. E. A. Noskln Mrs. D. L. Tomlin Mrs. W. L. Ford Mrs. Horace Champion Wm. Whitson James Warren Glenn Stevens Underwriting Committee Rex Hovious Tom Storm Olin Wirth Historical Program Alex Summers Paul Kizer Ray Redding Mrs. H, Champion Miss E. Oblinger Joe Sawyer Novelties Ernest Lorenz Prank Drake Harry Wendel FJ-ank Walters Paul Neal Official Hat Henry Conlin Richard Myers John Walters Leonard Lass Beard Committee Elks Club William Ostermeier Omer Macy Concessions Harry Gaines Norman Spear Cy McCurley Walt Storm Andy Sullivan Patrons Ticket Committee Mrs. H. I. Hannah Mrs. C. L. Moore Mrs. Helen Pegelow Mrs. W. A. Shafer Costume and Make-Up Mrs. Pete George Mrs. John Zike Mrs. Geo. Davison Lorraine Blew Cast Conunittee Pete George Dan March Mrs. K. Green Mrs. Robt. Leman W. C. Morse Queen Contest Committee Tom Purvis Don Shook Herb Williams Mrs. J. J. Link D. E. Reiman Properties Conunittee Mis. Ostergren Bill Ostergren Betty Field Lowell Field Raymond Schrader Gate and Ushers Lions Club Burl L. Bower Bill Chapman Bill Walters Press Committee John Miller Dr. Podesta Harris Sacks Martin Garbe Warren Moody Distributive Committee Robert Alexander Harry Lange Doug Werden Dan Handley Radio Committee Robert Guess Ken Wooddell Gene Harper Phyllis Aliens Andrew Kirk Speakers Conunittee Toastmasters Lloyd Harris Ken Degler John Oliver R. G. Lane Promotional Conunittee Red Graham Olie Olson Harry Gaines Roscoe Bush Reserve Seat Conunittee Paul Sanders Dean Coleman Joe Spitz, Jr. Merle Lowery Scenario and Title Alex Summers Harvey Wright Mrs. J. H. Glover Clarence Bell J. F. Homann Decorations Conunittee Raymond Elder Russ Bailey Charley Varner Construction Committees Urban Raef H. C. Burke Duane Hance Harry Kabbes Dick Tomlin Spectacle Music Committee Ken Jakle Mrs. Guy Seymour H. H. Blackwell Mr. Chambers Mrs. Chas. Titus Parade Committee E. E. Ethington Arnold Brown Adolph KuH Robert Zellers John Phipps Historical Window Conunittee Bill Checkley Glen Dorgan Dick Myers Olen Schwartz Celebration Bail Conunittee Frank Ronchetti Bill Podesta Bob Thompson Martin Garbe Jack Sanders Fireworks Conunittee Clyde Kirk Jack Higgins Bob Gibson Harlan Heller Jack Taylor Homecoming Committee Russel! Alfred Maydine Cone James L. Warren Mrs. Mary McGinnis Mrs. H. B. Ewing Traffic Safety Committee Paul Smith Marion Joseph Ed Horn L. C. Buck LeRoy Boggs Housing Conunittee T. M. Nelson Ray Poore J. C. Weaver Mrs. Don Turner Kenneth Gardner Transportation Committee Automobile Dealers Assoc. Special Days Committee Bernard DeBuhr Sunday - Freedom of Religion Rev. H. Batchelor Monday - Labor Day Mattoon Labor Tuesday - Youth Day Kiwanis Club Wednesday - Ladies' Day Sisters of the Swish Thursday - Governor's Day Shrine Club Friday - Industrial Assoc, of Commerce Saturday - Agriculture Day Auto and Implement Dealers Kangaroo Kourt W. F. Ostermeier, Chr. Kops Phil Joplin Russell Wisely Robert Crowder Keith Carrell Denzil Gregg Bert Kessler Glenn Roth Gene Holtgrewe Bob House Judge Harry Lange Paddy Wagon furnished by Phil Joplin Brothers of Brush Stag Art Phares, Chr, Denzil Gregg Monroe Jenkins Urban Raef R. G. Lane Tom Suerdieck Part I — THE PIONEERS — "Up From the Prairie" The Centennial Connnittee ami the editors of '"Mwttoon Memories" wish to e.rpres.s their deep- est gratitude to several indiridiidl.s and orijan- i:atif)ns irhose help has made this jnihlieation possibh'. Amon-overnnH'nt surveyors hired in Ken- tucky to do land work in the State of Illinois. Mr. Sawyer liked the prospects he saw in the rich jirairie land of eastern Illinois, retuiMied to Kentucky, and made plans to settle permanently in Coles County. Before leaving Illinois, Sawyer had bouolit a tract of land in Section 33. Mattoon township, and had hired a man named Bates from near Charleston to build a cabin for $10. James Xash. a pioneer woodsman, secured Sawyer's permis- sion to live in the cal)in during that first winter. In 182(j numerous families, including those of John Sawyer, the Radleys. Harts, and others, poured into western Coles County, bought land and built cabins on the high ground around Wa- bash Point. The settlers from Kentucky during the next 10 years produced many of Mattoon's business leaders. Among these were James T. Cunningham and John Allison, two of the four leading developers of Mattoon. Cunningham and Allison had successful gen- eral stores in the Paradise village settlement be- fore the railroad construction program produced the town of Mattoon in 1855. Both men bought portions of Section 13 on which the Original Town of Mattoon was built, helped plan the city, estalilished several of the early businesses. and gave land for parks and churches. The other most influential earlv architects of Mattoon A (niiesake . . . \\'illi((m Matl'i'tu were Stephen Dexter Dole, a siicrcssfiil busi- ness man from Terre Haute, Ind., and Eben- ezer Noyes, a i)ioneer fiom Massachusetts who had settled in the Cays area in the middle 1830"s. Xoyes did not l)uy land in Section 13 in 1855, although he did ac(iuire some lots in 1856. He bought Section 14 — tiie land west of the Illi- nois Central tracks — on a contract from the railroad and planned the west part of Mattoon as we know it today. Mattoon had a uni(iu(' blending of national talents and ])hilosojiliy as a i-esult of the i-ailroad t-onstruction boom. More than half the people who settled here were from Kentucky and Ten- nessee, but there was a strong delegation from Indiana and many people from New England. The Hoosiers were trained develo])ers of pioneer land — shrewd in business mattei-s and wise in the ways of the pioneer farmer. The lOasterners lacked the practical outlook of the two other groups, but l)rought to the ])rairie an insistence on good schools and beautiful churches which set the city apart from other communities in the area. Among the Eastern families which helped shape the destiny of the new town were the Xoyes, Xeals, Lanes, Riddles, and Jennings. Two of the oldest brick homes in the city — both on Western Avenue — stand as reminders of the deeds of the Xoyes and Lane families. The old Xoyes home, started in ISO!), stands west of the Trinity Episcopal Church while the Ray Red- dings occupy the old Lane home on Western Avenue Road. The Jennings brothers, Ephraim and Ichabod, were early business leaders. E. Jeuniugs was the first railroad builder un the ground in the Mattoon area, having arrived here in 1853 to supervise the bridge building work. The founders of Original Town were Charles Floyd Jones, Davis Carpenter, Jr.. Usher F. Liuder. Ebenezer Noyes, James T. Cunningham. Stephen D. Dole. John Cunningham. John L. Allison. Eli.sha Linder, H. Q. Sanderson. Har- rison Messer. Samuel B. Richardson. William B. Tuell, and Josiah Hunt. The survey was complet- ed in December, 1854. a plat notarized in April. 1855, and recorded at Charleston in October. 1855. The town was named in honor of William B. Mattoon at a meeting of the founders in the Bunnell House in Charleston in May, 1855. The first engine, jiulling two cars and caboose, reached the railroad crossing in Mattoon on June 9. 1855. The wood-burning engine belonged to the Terre Haute & Alton R. R.. forerunner of the present Big Four division of the New York ( 'entral R. R. After the railroads commenced service, busi- ness houses and dwellings rose rapidly through- out the new city. The pioneers watched a dream come true within the first year and saw it ex- ceed all hopes within five years as the popula- tion climbed rapidly with the approach of the Civil War. The discovery well in Mattoou's prwluctive oil field was tapped in 1940. but the real devel- opment did not come until 1946. At the height of the boom more than 400 wells were produc- ing. Even now in Centennial Year more than 250 wells still are active. CONGRATULATIONS MATTOON 100th Anniversary FROM 500 Employees of the Mattoon Lamp Plant and Their Families Be sure and see our Industrial Exhibit At Peterson Park Progress Is Our Most Important Product GENERAL ® ELECTRIC REDDY KILOWATT Your Servant of the Century Congratulations . . . To Mattoon on her Centennial Anniversary! We're proud to have played a part in the City's progress, furnishing dependable Low Cost Elec- tricity and Gas Service for over half of this Cen- tury. MORE POWER TO AND FOR YOU! Reddy is ready now — with plenty. Reddy will keep AHEAD for the future. Central Illmois Public Service Company Low Cost Essential Service to Industry, Business, Farm and Home. Engine No. 1 of the Illinois Central Bail- road, shown at right, probably pulled hun- dreds of trains through the city of Mattoon. The crossing of the I. O. and the Terre Haute Alton, now known as the Big Pour Division of the New York Central R. R., created the town of Mattoon in 1855. Much of the city's pros- perity during the past century can be traced to the growth of the railroads. Part II — TRANSPORTATION By Raij Reddimj 111 referring to the growth and prosperity of any community the rather trite expre.ssion, "the wheels of progress" is almost sure to creep in. indicating tliat progress is somehow rehited to wlieels — tlie wheels of the covered wagon, the stagecoach, the ox-drawn cart, tlie buggy, the train and the automobile, until now that we liave become airborne we refer to "the irings of progress". Pharmacy Established 1865 OWINGS DRUG COMPANY 1621 Broadway THE REXALL STORE 1865 Business established by Kemp 1866 Oblinger and Kemp 1870 Oblinger and Weaver 1878 Weavers Drug Store 1894 Sheppard and Becker 1899 Sheppard Bros. 1902 Ov\/ings and Morton 1907 Owings Drug Company Serving the Mattoon area for over 90 years. ^M^siii^"L HAPPY BIRTHDAY MATTOON Home of Railroad & Truck Salvage and Factory Surplus Merchandise FACTORY OUTLET 1908 Western Avenue Mattoon Medical Association The Doctors of Mattoon ore proud to be Port of this Centennial Raymond A. Dougherty John D. Hardinger Jack T. Harper John F. Hubbard John Jemsek Edward A. Kendall Alfred A. Leffman Edward X. Link Joseph F. Mallory Wayne T. Neal Eugene A. Noskin GuyO. Pfeiffer A. P. Rauwolf E. E. Richardson Guy E. Seymour Lee A. Steward S. W. Thiel Anna Weiss Otto Weiss Edward N. Zinschlag The growth of the small comnuinity of "Peg- town" (so-called because of the lumierous sur- veyors' stakes) which was to become the City of Mattoou was due to the advent of better and swifter methods of transportation, culminating in the modern railroads. The first transportation route through this vicinity was an Indian trail, running southeast and northwest, the nearest point to Mattoon be- ing approximately four miles. This trail was marked with what were known as "Indian trees". The Indians had twisted young saplings, pointing the limbs toward the Kaskaskia and the Embarrass Rivers, thus marking a trail for new- comers. One of these trees was still standing until recently on the Old State Road. This trail was used by a tribe of Indians known as the Kickapoos. Of course travel was on foot or horse- back. The next methods of transportation available were by ox-team, horseback and stage coach on what is still known as the "Old State Road," one and a half miles south of Mattoon. Three miles southwest of Mattoon there was a town laid out in 1836, consisting of two streets on Avhich were located an inn for the accommodation of travel- lers, a grocery store and post office. Tiiis place was called Xew Richmond. It was for some time a stage coach stop, and ratiier ambitious plans were made for a village at this point but with the railroads by-passing it. construction stopped, and Xew Richmond ceased to exist. In the spring of 1855, two railroads were be- ing built toward the present site of Mattoon, one south from (."hicago and the other west from Paris, 111., the Illinois Central Railroad and the Terre Haute & Alton, respectively. It was first intended that the latter road would be built ac- cording to a survey made three miles north of Mattoon but this plan was abandoned in favor of the present location. There is some di.spute as to wiiich railroad Avon the race to the crossing in Mattoon, but all historians agree that the Terre Haute & Alton bi-ought the first train into the new town. That event took place on June 9, and 3,000 pioneers showed their appreciation of the railroads with a tumultuous celebration. Mattoon became an exchange point for pas- sengers and freight by the two roads. Xear the intersection, west of the Illinois Central and south of the St. Louis, Alton & Terre Haute. there was built a three-story combination pas- .senger station and hotel called the Essex House, Parking Area FIRST FEDERAL SAVINGS and LOAN ASSOCIATION OF MATTOON SAVINGS INVESTMENTS HOME LOANS We invite you to visit our Modern Offices Air-Conditioned Drive-Up Window 1500 WABASH AVENUE PHONE 5411 Serving This Community for 66 Years OFFERING A TRULY REVOLUTIONARY PRODUCT IN A REVOLUTIONARY AGE \ X* /S( »-* V »» *« f«M » XJ*. i-M > • Ih* «.«»_• ft— P<< GREEN WAVE FERTILIZER CD Storage at LIPSEY SWITCH MACKS TIRE SERVICE 509 NORTH NINETEENTH ST. TRADING B. F. GOODRICH is our Tires - Batteries BUSINESS KELVINATOR Appliances CONVENIENT MOTOROLA BUDGET TERMS TV - Radios PHONE 5888 MACKS TIRE SERVICE which served both roads. Trains stopped for meals at the Essex House, the stops in most cases being about thirty minutes. Through train service between Chicago and East St. Louis (then called Illinoistown | with- out the necessity of changing cars en route was established for the first time in October, 1856. Soon afterward the Illinois Central placed in service two passenger trains each way daily ex- cept Sunday, providing tlie quickest transit then available between Chicago and St. Louis. The route was over the Illinois Central from Chicago to Mattoon, and by the St. Louis. Alton and Terre Haute from Mattoon to Illinoistown. A "luxury train'', the "Lightning Express," was put into service, which provided Chicago and St. Louis with their first sleeping and state- room cars, years before such equipment was in- troduced on other railroads. The Lightning Ex- press really made history. The St. Louis adver- tising posters informed the public that they could travel in "magnificent State Room Cars, enabling the passenger to retire to bed and take a comfortal)le night's sleep while rapidly pur- suing his journey." Also that "Omnibuses call for passengers at the hotels, steamboats, rail- roads and private residoices, free of charge" The passenger "rapidly pursued" his journey from St. Louis to Chicago from 4:00 P. M. until late the next luoriiing. In 1872 Mattoon acquired a third railroad which was first known as the Decatur, Lincoln \ I'ekin. The l)ranch of this line which was ex- tended to Mattoon was built liy the Decatur, Sullivan & Mattoon Railroad, incorporated March 26, 186!), and opened for operation in 1872. Six years later the Grayville & Mattoon Railroad Company, incorporated in 1S76, com- pleted its line from Mattoon to I'arkersburg, which point remained the southern terminal for several years. In 1880-1881 several companies operating the route from Pekin to Parkersburg niei-ged to form the Peoria, Decatur & Evansville Railroad, the old P. D. & E. To i-elate the history of this line between Pe- oria and Evansville, Inc., would retjuire writing a book. As many as twenty-eight distinct com- ])anies, dating back to 1839, were involved in its ownership and operation. Finally, in 1900 the railroad was put up for auction and bid in by the Illinois Central Railroad, and has since been a i)art of that .system. Carlton J. Corliss, in his book, "Main Line of Mid-America'', says: "Probably no segment of the Illinois Cen- tral has experienced more vicissitudes or suffered a closer acquaintance with the Mattoon's Only Home-Owned Department Store N\ \// ^ 1 ]\U "'C /- OOMlNftNr STORE jy J UNI J^, f 1616 Serving This Area For A Quarte r Of A Cei ntury MATTOON, ILLINOIS EFFINGHAM, ILLINOIS 10 Congratulations MATTOON on your 100th ANNIVERSARY 1855- 1955 FROM Kull Lumber Cninpany Our Lumber Business Located At Same Address Since 1886 18TH and PRAIRIE AVENUE FAST Convenient Service • QUALITY Lumber and Materials • EFFICIENT Home Planning • EASY Budget Plans AT KULL LUMBER CO. 11 bankruptcy courts than has this line, known to old-timers as the Peoria, Decatur & Ev- ansville, or simply the P. D. & E. * * * * "Many and lurid are the tales of rail- roading on these short-lines through the seventies, when each was operating inde- pendently. The Grayville and Mattoon, for instance, owned two wheezy little engines which had been purchased secoiulliand when the road was built. Its track was built with iron rails weighing fifty pounds to the yard. Weeds flourished in abundance on the road- way. Cros.s-ties were laid on the ground without foundation work. ('onse((uent]y. aft- er a heavy rain or thaw the rails would sink down nearly out of sight under the weight of a train. Karely were passengers or freight schedules maintained. Profits Avere often non-existent. "On the Grayville-Mattoon line water for the engines Avas obtained by the aid of a 'one-horse power pump' of ingenious con- struction. The capacity of the tank was suf- ficient only to take care of the wants of one locomotive. A horse was kept on hand to operate the pump, and each engine crew had to replenish the water supply by hitcliing up Old Dobbin and putting him to work. Even at such an important terminal point as Mattoon, where four railroads met, a team of oxen was driven by the yardmaster to switch the cars to and from the freight house." In 1878 the present roundhouse and shops were built; also a passenger station at 21st Street and the tracks. In the earlier years before the consolidation of the different lines there was no conuocting link l)etween the south and north branch but the north branch was connected with the St. Louis, Alton & Terre Haute at the out- skirts of Mattoon and used tlieir tracks to the Essex House or depot. The trains on the south luaiich arrived via the Illinois Central tracks 1o the depot. With the opening of the P. D. & E. passenger station and the necessity for transportation of passengers and baggage between that station and Essex House or depot of the two earlier rail- i-oads, a certain young lad of sixteen heard op- ])ortunity knocking and seeing a chance to help himself as well as travelers through Mattoon, started a hack line for such purpose. With a team of horses, riding astride one and leading the other, this enterprising young man journ- eyed to Shelbyville, 111., twenty-four miles from Mattoon, where he had heard there was a hack Compliments of MATTOniV'S OLDEST LIFE mSUMMEE AGEIVEY THE SOUTHEASTERN ILLINOIS AGENCY OF The Massachusetts Mutual Life lusurauce Cd. H. NOLAN SIMS, General Agent And Associates Ralph Brausa Wm. L. Hood Helen Rose Pegelow Norman Zellers WABASH AVENUE AT 15TH STREET 12 Kuehne . . . y-:^' The greatest name in Dinette Furni- ture is proud to be a part of this cen- tury old city. This community has been a good place to produce our product be- cause so many good people live here. With the fine cooperation of all our employees, Kuehne has grown with the city and is now the world's largest manufacturer of tubular steel furni- ture and also the city's largest pro- ducer of payroll dollars. All of the employees of the Kuehne Mfg. Co. are proud to say — "May the candles on Mattoon's birthday cake glow brighter as the years go by." "If It's Kuehne It's Better Than The Best' 13 for sale. He bought it, liitclied the team to it and drove back to Mattoon. Later this man became a locomotive engineer on the I. & i^t. L. Rail- road, and it is from listening to his vivid ac- counts of early railroading that the writer first became interested in the subject. Incidentally. the young hack owner, Charles C. Redding, was the writer's father. Returning to the original St. Louis, Alton & Terre Haute Railroad, which we left at the crossing when it first met the Illinois Central in 1855. This road, nickimmed the "Sankey" by its employees, afterward became the Indianapolis & St. Louis. Then it was purchased by the Big Four, formerly called the "Bee Line" and consti- tuted part of the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis, now part of the New Yoi-k Central System. The division point for the St. Louis, Alton & Terre Haute had been at Litchfield, 111., seventy- nine miles west of Mattoon. Later, in 1870, the division point was changed to Mattoon, and about this time the road became the Indiana- polis & St. Louis Railroad. Most of the road's shop employees and trainmen moved to Mattoon, boosting the population considerably and creat- ing a real estate boom. We can imagine that even in tliose early days there must have been a "hou.sing situation". The roundhouse and other shop buildings were built at their present location, between 8th and 9th Streets and the tracks. There are two relics from the Litchfield days still in use at the Big Pour shops. One very small office liuilding was brought here intact on a flat car and is still in use. Also the whistle which we hear 1)1 own at certain hours every day was Ill-ought along and is still sounding off, a little hoarse and lired, perhaps, as might be expected of a near-centenarian, but still faithful. The first switching yards for this road were constructed Iietween llJth and I'lst Streets, con- sisting of four tracks which held about twenty- four cars. During the years 1903-1904, an interurban line was built between Mattoon and Charleston, one of the Samuel Insull interests. There had been a plan ft»r an electric route leading out of Mattoon in the directions of Terre Haute and De- catur. The idea for the Decatur line was discard- ed and only the line east as far as Charleston was established. This Mattoon-Charleston Inter- urban Line did a flourishing passenger, mail and exi)ress business as well as handling freight, un- til the advent of the automobile and hard roads. Best Wishes from MATTOON'S OLDEST FURNITURE STORE The "Big Store on the Corner" 15TH and BROADWAY 14 GREETINGS — To all the good people of Mattoon in the celebration of our 100th Birthday. THANKS - For the YEARS of Successful Business We have enjoyed in this wonderful community and the hundreds of old and new friends over the years. STOP AND SEE US AT 2008 MARSHALL AVENUE The Home of TOLLE GREEN MARKED PAROFAX certified COAL Fuel Oil ICE Citizens Coal and Ice Cnmpany H. R. Tolle G. H. Telle W. E. Tolle At one time the road owned five passenger cars and one express and freight car. A major accident occurred on this road in 1907 when there was a collision between a pas- senger ear and a freight car, in which eigliteen people were killed and about tAvelve seriously injured. The road was abandoned in 1926. As part of the interurban project a Mattoon Street Car Line was established, which line ex- tended from Logan Street on the east side of town via Broadway and Prairie Avenue to Thir- ty-third Street. This project was also abandoned in 1928. Later a bus line was put into service, which is now operating. The inter-state bus lines afford Mattoon passenger service in all direc- tions. With the last chapter in the history of Mat- toon transportation we have advanced from In- dian trails to airways. Mattoon first became airminded in 1929, when a small air field east of the city began operation but was later dis- continued. In 1946, the Coles County Airport was established under the Airport Authority Act. The port is located five miles east of Mat- toon and comprises three hundred acres. It is equipped with hangars, beacon and all other fa- cilities necessary for the operation of a Class III or Feeder Airport. Early this year (1955) the first regular air service via the Ozark Air Line became available to Mattoon and vicinity. The growth of our city has been so interwoven with the growth of transportation that it is not exaggerating to say that transi^ortation made Mattoon. We would like to consult our crystal ball and tell what the next one hundred years will bring in the way of new marvels for satisfy- ing that urge which Peter Finley Dunne termed "the home-leaving instinct of the Ameriran peo- ple". Perhaps some of our descendants will take off from the Coles County Airport for a trip to Mars ! A steam railroad from Danville to Mattoon was promoted during the years 1875-81. The line was surveyed and bonds attempted. Judge D. T. Mclntyre of Mattoon was attorney for the com- pany. KENT LUMBER & COAL From All of Us to All of You COMPANY HAPPY BIRTHDAY 21st and Broadway MATTOON ILLINOIS WALKER CONSTRUCTION CO. KNOWLES CAFETERIA LITTLE CHEF 1626 Broadway 110 South 17th WHERE HOSPITALITY IS EXCEEDED ONLY BY GOOD FOOD 16 At This Time When . . . MATTOON IS CELEBRATING ITS CENTENNIAL . . . we are enjoying our 1 5th year of sign and outdoor advertising service to Mattoon and surrounding communities. L SIGN S ERVICE M AT TOON, I LLINOI S ~\ h _:i^ Producers of the Finest Sign, Bulletin and Scotchlight Displays PROGRESSING WITH MATTOON FOR 40 YEARS YOUNG & FOOTE ELECTRIC CO. Licensed Electrical Contractors 1910 Western Ave. - Phone 3344 MATTOON, ILLINOIS Industrial and Residential Wiring for Light and Power Electrical Repairing - Wiring Materials Lighting Fixtures A Good Job At A Reasonable Price WOLF'S THE SHOP SMART WOMEN PREFER CITY SHOE SHOP MATTOON, ILLINOIS C. Y. Quackenbush 1613 Broadway "Almost a Quarter of Century of Fine Service in Mattoon" (In our 24th year) SHANKS PACKING COMPANY MATTOON'S OLDEST and LARGEST 13th and Hayes Sts. Mattoon, Illinois SHOE REPAIR SHOP HOME KILLED MEATS Wholesale only 17 Port III — SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES Mattoon School History By Mrti. H. E. Greer The first schools in Mattoon were private, and hehl in the home of the teacher, who charged a small tuition of .fl'.OO to |3.00 per quarter per pupil. A woman named Greene had a school of six scholars in a cabin with dirt floors about 1828 at Wabash Point. Shortly afterwards, log- school houses were built with joint labor of the settlement — one settler donating the site; oth- ers tools such as an ax, froAV and augur; and still others the labor. These log school houses had puncheon floors, and puncheon benches for seats. The teacher's desk was a puncheon table which was used mainlv to "set a copy" on each pupil's slate or copy-book so he could attempt to i-epi-oduce the teacher's chirography. The teaching was mainly personal with each pupil in a grade by himself. The teacher usually fur- nished the few textbooks used in reading, writ- ing, arithmetic and spelling. The first regular log school house was built around 1829-1830, at Wabash Point on land do- nated by Van Vort. The first teacher was Mr. Banker, followed consecutively by David Camp- An Earhj Si-IuidI bell, William Moffett, Eli Taylor and (). H. Per- rv. FRED SMITH'S For Women Troyling Originals Naturalizers Life Stride Glamour Debs Compliments of FRED SMITH'S For Men Nunn Bush BEN FRANKLIN Roblee Pedwins 15 Years of Service and Progress FRED SMITH'S For Children Buster Brown Robin Hood 2004-08 Western • X-RAY FITTING • irSED SMITHES \ ••••SHOE STORE****' 18 Compliments of RATHE NURSERIES Family owned and operated since 1918 4 Miles Northwest of Mattoon BURTSCHI BOOK & GIFT SHOP 1612 Broadway MATTOON, ILLINOIS A large selection of Gifts - Chinaware - Books - Games - Toys Religious Goods IF YOU NEED HELP TO GET IN THE CENTENNIAL SPIRIT Stop in at JEFFRIES' Western Avenue Since 1932 MATTOON'S OLDEST TAVERN HANCE & WILT General Contractors Phone 8235 Duane Hance Jack Wilt Residential, Commercial and Industrial Office 2212 Broadway MATTOON, ILLINOIS THIRD GENERATION IN OPERATION House's Tavern 2009 WESTERN AVENUE 19 Contemporary with the start of the town, Mat- toon, and before the cold of winter in 1855, a small frame school house was built on east Broadway, where the greatest influx of popula- tion was expected. Since the little house was ci-OAvded to the utmost, only the winter term was taught there. This was a subscription school. The next term, a similar school was "kept" in an unoccupied room. The first so-called public school, supported mainly by taxation, was conducted in 1855 and '56 by James A. McCullam in an upper room of True, Cunningham and Company's Store — now 1212 Richmond Avenue. Private schools came into being in the early history of Mattoon. Most noticeable of these was started in 1857 or '58, and called the Male and Female Academy. It was, in truth, two institu- tions in one, Mattoon Female Academy and Mattoon College, Chartered in February, 1863. Mattoon College does not seem to have existed very long. Lack of means was the obstacle to the growth of both, as the town was too young and too poor to endow them. Prof "W. W. Oill was the first teacher in the Mattoon Female Acad- emy, followed by Rev. D. F. McFarland, and later Mrs. C. E. Gill. Otlier subscription of private schools were con- ducted through out the town; one supervised by Mi.ss Ida McXett in 1856 in the old Baptist Church, ( 1121 Wabash) ; another, by James Bal- lon; and a third, by Miss Susan Cleaves in 1857 in the Cumberland Presliyterian Church (1321 Broadway). Owing to the inability to support private schools and the erection of new and bet- ter ward or public schools with their increased facilities and free tuition, the academy and all private schools were gradually abandoned. In 1856, the first public school building was erected in the northeast part of town on the site of 1307 Champaign. It was a two room brick Ituilding, which seated many more pupils than any of the buildings previously used. James Bal- lon was the fii'st principal and ^Miss Kate Mc- Munn, the teaclier. By 1859, enrollment had in- creased to 186 pupils, so three teachers had to Ite employed, and other facilities utilized. Char- les A. Sage taught classes in the unfinished Christian Church on lots donated by James Mon- roe and J. T. Cunningham at 1600 Wabash Ave. ; Miss Mattie Smith held classes at what is now 1612 Charleston; and Miss Eliza Voris in the brick school at 1307 Chamijaign. SERVING MATTOON AND THE COMMUNITY WITH THE FINEST IN TELEPHONE EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES Telephone Building — 1501 Charleston Avenue Illinois Consolidated Telephone Company 20 MIDWEST HOMES INC. 3-7 ROOM HOMES $3,500 UP See Open Models on Display Rt. 130 Charleston, III. when only thebestwill do for your Insist On Our Famous VITA-GLO Dry Cleaning PEERLESS MODEL 2008 Prairie Dial 7491 Mattoon SEE FURSTE FIRST AUTO SUPPLY 1622 Broadway Ave. Dealers for RAYTHEON TV FEDDERS AIR-CONDITIONERS NORGE APPLIANCES Serving Mattoon and Coles County for over 30 years SEE FROSTY SECOND Enjoy yourself, it's later than you think Stop in at FROSTY'S and have another drink. FROSTY'S 1823 Broadway COLE'S Liquor Drive-ln and Food Market Open 8 A. M. to 1 1 P. M. 2713 Marshall Under Same Management 21 In 1863. there were 800 school age children in the growing town, so, in October, the one school district was divided into Districts No. 1 and No. 7. with the Illinois Central Railroad established as the dividing line between tlie two districts. In 1864-65. a two story brick school was erected on the west side of town by the West Ward and put under separate control, with it and the east side brick independent of eacli oth- er. The West Side building was an improvement over the East Side School. It contained four rooms, was supplied with a bell, improved seats, blackboards, and all the "machinery of tlie mod- ern school room of the day". O. S. Cook was the first superintendent witli Miss .lennie Mc- Kinstry, Miss Miller and Mrs. Riley, assistants. Other early superintendents were T. H. Smith, and T. B. Greenlaw. (It was from this site that the government took observations of the total eclipse of the sun on August 7, 1869). The West Side Building was used without change until 1871, when a third story, with five rooms and a large hall, was added. Here on the third floor, high school classes and entertainments were held. Since the school occupied the entire block, there was plenty of playground .space. Previous- ly a snmll one room building had been erected west of the school grounds for colored children. Since it was found impractical to educate them separately, the building was moved to the school yard aiition and end)race all who came near them, men and wt)men alike, sinking down at last from sheer exhaustion and the preacher would re- (juest some of the good brethren to carry them to their tents to recuperate. At such times the meetings were continuous from early morning until late at night, preachers, exhorters and other leaders would relieve one another. The first church in Mattoon probably was built by the old line Baptists ( predestinarians 01 hard-shell ). They erected a small frame build- ing in the summer of 1856 at a point now known as 1421 Wabash Avenue. They allowed other denonunations to use the church building. After the old line Baptist church disbanded, the build- ing was sold to the United Itrethren. Several Penneys ALV/AYS f IR ' Congratulations to Mattoon from all of us! Row 1 — ■ Marcia Carter, Marjorie Mann, Hazel Augenstein, Donna Lanman, Hazel French, Louise Butler. Row 2 — Lillian Weber, Jennie Nolette, Opal Moino, Gail Sexson, Ruth Edwards, Betty Daugherty, Ariel Fisher, Helen Lyster. Row 3 — Beulah Bruns, William Zurheide-Centen- nial Chairman, T. M. Nelson-Store Manager, Jess Chezem, Roy Haines, Charles Brown, Byron Montague, Jack Walker, Edna Grant. 26 EISNER ii?M: Your Complete Food Store 1601 BROADWAY 2010 WESTERN 2701 CHAMPAIGN H:^: OLIVER FARM MACHINERY and CMC TRUCKS DAILY IMPLEMENT COMPANY James Daily, Owner RYAN BROS. CONOCO SERVICE CENTER Look For the White Horse Phone 7377 If No Answer, Call 9054 POWER GLAZING • Washing • Lubrication • Battery Charging • Vacuum Cleaning • Goodyear Tires, Tubes • Wheel Packs • Tire Repairing • Accessories • Vulcanizing • Batteries A. A. A. Chicago Motor Club Road Service 19th & Champaign Are. 27 other churches organized in 1856, among them being the Church of Inimacuhite (\)nception, and the First Metliodist (^lurch. The former built its first churcli l)uilding iiere in 1860 under the direction of Fatlier Kyan. I'rior to that time. Mattoon was a mission served from North Arm. 111. Tlie Church continued a steady expansion in Iiuihling during the 186(rs and 187(l"s. Tlie Methodist Church was organized here in 1856 as the first Methodist Society of Mattoon and held regular meetings in the homes of the members. It is probable that a recognized Meth- odist group may have been active here as early as the fall of 1855, according to certain county records, but a resident pastor was not appointed until 1857. The first church building probably was started in 1858. The New School Congregaticm of the First Presbyterian Church was organized in 1858, while the Old School Church began formal oper- ations in an abandoned Methodist Church on Champaign Avenue in 1860. The First Christian Church organized here in 1859, and held its early meetings in public halls and the homes of members. In 1870 another branch of the Church was organized in Mattoon. In all, 36 church bodies now hold regular serv- ices in the city of Mattoon. A nundjer of these are erecting new church buildings during Cen- tennial year as a testimonial to the city's per- petual devotion to beautiful and active churches. An electric railroad from Decatur to .Mattoon was projected in l!t05. It was called the Decatur, Sullivan & Mattoon Railway company and re- ceived franchises from the Mattoon council on March L'O, 1906; February 5, 1007. and Septem- ber 3, 1912. J. R. LIVESAY, Pres. & Gen. Mgr. R. D. BILLS, SR., Sec'y L PAUL HARRIS, V, Pres The three men who founded WLBH which began operations Nov. 26, 1946. WLBH is Mattoon and Coles County's first commercial radio broadcasting station. WLBH-FM was completed and went on the air in Aug., 1949, thus giving the area full time broadcasting service. Under the direction of Ray Livesay and a competent staff, WLBH has become re- cognized throughout the nation as one of the most outstanding local radio stations in news coverage and community service programming. The owners look forward to a century of service. 28 H. W. GEHL Chairman Board of Directors President GEHLS HARDWARE 1815 BROADWAY Supplies and Service Since 1923 in one location JOHN D. GEHL Vice Pres. General Manager General Hardware — Electrical Supplies and Equipment Household Gadgets — Awnings, Metal and Canvas Plumbers Fittings and Accessories — Tools for Every Purpose Air Conditioning, "Perfection" — Pumps, Paints and Oil 3 Floors and Warehouse Full of Merchandise Try us First for Anything — Save Yourself Miles of Shopping Travel Always Remembering "GEHL'S HAVE IT." — RESIDENCE IN MATTOON SINCE )901 — THE ILLINOIS TAVERN Roy and Jim, Props. FOOD and DRINK Dial 2020 1717 Broadway Next to Centennial Headquarters WHITE OWL TRUCK STOP OPEN 24 HOURS Motors Exchanged DIAL 9080 DIESEL FUEL Complete Service HAMILTON CLEANERS If You are particular - And hard to please then send HAMILTON'S all Your cleaning needs Phone 3533 1104 S. 18th Street Mattoon, Illinois BOYD HENDERSON, INC. PHELAN'S PAINTS Paints and Floor Coverings Venetian Blinds - Storm Windows Phone 2851 1819 Broadway MATTOON, ILL. 29 Part IV — MATTOON AND THE CIVIL WAR By Alex titiiiimers Becaiise Coles County and Mattoon always will be associated with "The Lincoln Story", the part this area played in the Civil War fascin- ates students of history. Thomas Lincoln, the father of Abraham, lived southeast of Mattoon from 1831 until his death in 1851. Sarah Bush Lincoln, the stepmother of Abraham, did not die until 1869. The curious historian wonders how the peo- ple of Coles County felt toward the war effort, in view of their close relationship with mem- bers of the Lincoln family. Also, the central eastern section of Illinois was strongly divided on the war issue, as this paper will explain later. But there were other unique cii'cumstances which created a wealth of menioi-abilia about the Civil War. The story of Mattoon's part in the Civil War logically begins with Ulysses S. Grant. The war had been going several weeks before Grant wangled an active assignment out of the adju- tant general's office in Springfield — and then he was sent out merely to muster guard units Col. U. aS'. Grout We missed the first hundred years, but we sure hope to be part of the picture for the next century. Construction Equipment Division Blaw-Knox Company MATTOON, ILLINOIS Mattoon's Centennial Queen and the escort of her choice will be guests of Blaw-Knox while in Pittsburgh. They will be transported from Mattoon to New York and return on a flight sponsored and arranged for by Blaw-Knox as the Company's contribution to Mattoon's Centennial Celebration. 30 Congratulations from . . . i'hillips 66 Keith Thomason, Consignee TANK TRUCK DRIVERS Delbert Wade - Glen Lenz - Dean Stephen SERVICE STATION BOYS Hamilton 66 300 S. 1 8th St. Shores 66 10th & Dewitt Armstrong 66 21st & Charleston Beals 66 304 N. 15th St. Fugate 66 33rd & Marshall The Insurance Man" Since 1925 J. LOGAN COVER PREDECESSORS 1865 1867 1868 1869 1870 1871 1874 1875 1879 Toles Clark Clark Clark Clark Clark Scott & Lynn Jackson Smith Smith 1889 1890 1922 Bostwick 1922 — Clark & Scott Lynn 1926 — 1927 — 1931 — Jackson & Spitler Spitler & Noble Spitler S. R. Evans, Five Silent Partners S. R. Evans J. O. Stevens Agency Ben Uran The Gover agency is proud to follow in the footsteps of these many civic minded citizens of Mattcon. Their ideal of service is an inspiration. Although business methods change and the problems now are those of airplane hangars instead of livery stables, the same in- surance companies are active in the Gover office. These companies have grown with the years and offer you their wealth of experience, proving positivelv that they protect those who trust in them. J. Logan Gover and Associates salute Mattoon in her Centennial Year. We Sell Protection — We Give Service J. LOGAN GOVER "The Insurance Man" 3rd Floor Montgomery Ward BIdg. Phone 5421 YOU CAN BUILD ANYTHING WITH READY MIX CONCRETE Safer - Stronger - Fireproof FARRIER CONSTRUCTION CO. FRANCIS L. FARRIER Congratulations from the employees of SAM WOLF BROOM CO. 201 North 15th St. 3T into service! One of these was the l-'lst Illinois Infantry regiment, which Grant mustered in at Mattoon in May, 18()1. He later met it at Spring- field and later entered the curious battlefields in Missouri and then Kentucky. According to local traditions. Grant formally inducted this regiment in a brief ceremony held northwest of the present Illinois Central rail- road station. His troops were quartered in a training area northeast of Mattoon in a section we now call Grant I'ark. Although (Jrant's stay in Mattoon was ex- tremely lirief, his later fame presei-ved an un- dying interest among local people in the war- time leader and the two-term president of tlie post-war period. Colonel Grant himself, in his well known ilfeiH(o//-s, has the following to say about his brief stay in Mattoon : "The 21st Regiment of Infan- try mustered by me at Mattoon refused to go into the service with the Colonel of their se- lection in any position. While I was still ab- sent. Governor Yates appointed me Colonel of this latter regiment. A few days later I was in charge of it and in camp on fairgrounds near Sjtringfield. (This was on June Ki, lS(il.) The Store That Quality Built MATTOON'S LEADING STORE FOR MEN, WOMEN, and CHILDREN "My regiment was com^josed in large part of young men of as good social position as any in their section of the state. It eml)raced the sons of farmers, lawyers, physicians, pctliticians. mer- chants, bankers and ministers, and some men of maturer years who had filled such positions themselves. There were also men in it who could be led astray; and the Colonel, elected by the votes of the regiment, had proved to be fairly capable of developing all there was in his men of recklessness. It was said that he even went .so far at times as to take the guard from their posts and go with them to the village nearby and •make a night of it'! When there came a prospec- tive battle, the regiment wanted to have some- one else to lead them. I found it very hard work for a few days to bring all the men into any- thing like subordination; but the great majority favored (lisci])line, and by the ap])lication of a little regular army punishment, all were reduced to as good discipline as one could ask." At least a dozen other companies or regiments performed heroically during the Civil War and merited special notice in citations by the Army at the close of the Civil War. Among the most distinguishe. of the 41st Regiment, commanded first by Ed- JULIA SENTENEY INSURANCE Office HON. 16th St. Mattoon, Illinois Phone 4465 "Your Insurance Friend" Matloon, Illinois 32 THE SULLIVAN DAIRY An independent dairy, carrying a full line of Grade A milk, ice cream and milk products has served Central Illinois for more than 25 years. Having enjoyed the goodwill of all com- munities served, and having much faith in the future of Mattoon, the Sullivan Dairy entered the Mattoon market 10 years ago, buying a small local dairy. Sullivan Dairy's faith in Mattoon v^^as such that they immediately en- larged, moved to a new location and con- structed a modern dairy building, including the "Dairy Bar". Their faith in Mattoon has been rev\/arded, as Mattoon has continued to grow and prosper, and the dairy has enjoyed the goodwill and business of many in Mat- toon and the surrounding territory. Don't Be Shocked By Mr. Electric Kilowatt Have your electric wiring inspected and brought up to date by a Qualified Electrician. Be sure he uses UL approved material bought from MATTOON ELECTRIC SUPPLY CO. Wholesale Distributor 22nd and Dewitt Avenue MATTOON, ILL. PHONE 5488 Ernest Seaman, Pres. -1855 1955- CRADLE & TOT P TT T P P S ' THE JUNIOR SHOP SHOE STORE 16th and Broadway 33 mund W. True, who was killed at Fort Donel- son, then bv R. W. McFadden, and then bv Jo- seph Withington who was later to bect)nie known as the niiK-h revered Capt. Joseph Withington. This unit was made up largely of Coles County Volunteers. R. W. McFadden was later pro- moted to Major of the regiment. The 54tli regiment, which had for its second colonel G. M. Mitchell of r'harleston. who was later promoted to brevet Brigadier General, in- cluded many Coles County siddiers. William M. Puritan and Russell "W. Williams of Mat- toon were captains of Company A and James T. Smith of Mattoon was captain of Company F in the 54th. The 62nd regiment, Illinois infantry, was commanded by Col. James M. True. It had some privates from the Mattoon area and several of- ficers. Lewis C. True was first adjutant, then Major, and finally Lt. Colonel, and in com- mand of the regiment at the date of its muster- out March (5, ISfifi. Dr. V. R. Bridges, one of the early distinguished iihysicians of Mattoon. was a surgeon of the same regiment. James M. True, while still a colonel, was for a time in command of a bi-igade. This continued for a year or more, and just before the close of the War he was prt)nioted to Brigadier General by brevet. The ll*8rd regiment, one of the most heroic of all contingents serving from Mattoon and Coles County, had as its first commander Col. James Monroe, who was regarded as a gallant and pop- ular officer. Col. Monroe was a son-in-law of James T. Cunningham, one of the most dis- tinguished of the early settlers of Mattoon. Col. Monroe was killed at the battle of Farmington, Tenn., on October 7, 1863. Jonathan Biggs of ^fattoon succeeded Monroe as Colonel. Company I) of the 123rd regiment was commanded by James L. Hart of Etna. Company E was com- manded by A. C. YanBuskirk, John W. Champ and Thonms E. Woods, all of Mattoon; Com- pany I was commanded by William E. Adams, then of Mattoon. The 126th regiment, while hav- ing only a few privates from Coles County, was commanded by Jonathan Richmond of Mattoon. It was organized and mustered in at Alton, 111., on September i, 1862, and was mustered out July 12, 1865. The most active Coles County family in the Civil War probably was that of the Trues. AnK>ng those of the True family who served were James M., Edmund W., Lewis, John, James F., Congratulations from Congratulations from THE THE TEXAS COMPANY MARATHON DELIVERY BOYS and Employees 14th and Grant Charles Hoskins, Agent John Reece, Tank Wagon Tom Watson, Agent Harold Hardwick, Tank Wagon STATION BOYS STATION BOYS Dan Jones — 1421 Dewitt Ave. Ray Sparks — 520 5. 21st St. Charles McGinness - 1901 Champaign Robert French - 1 8th & Edgar Bulk Plant - Phone 7381 Otis Lettner - 18th & Olive Charles French - 21st & Marshall 34 The Association of Commerce is an organization of citizens who believe in the future of their com- munity, who work and act together to promote commercial, industrial, agricultural, civic and resi- dential improvement and during the past 30 years has furnished the leadership responsible for the constant growth of Mattoon. ^5 I MattDDn IVew Car Dealers Association GROBELNY MOTOR CO. Ql JALITY CADILLAC-OLDS S> Pontiac Cadillac-Oldsmobile LINDLEY CHEVROLET CO. SCHUETTE MOTORS. INC Chevrolet DeSoto-Plymouth McCORMICK FARM EQUIP. STORE THOMPSON -ROSE, INC. International Lincoln-Mercury MATTOON MOTOR CAR CO. TOM PURVIS, INC Buick Ford MILLER AND SONS MOTOR CO. W. C. GRAHAM & SON Dodge- Plymouth Chrysler- Plymouth O'HAIR MOTOR CO. Studebaker -Packard 36 IN THE PAST We have endeavored to properly care for the auto- motive transportation needs of this community to the best of our ability. IN THE FUTURE It is our desire and intention to grow with the community and to further improve our service in every way possi- ble. Mattonn JVew Car Dealers Association 37 and Theodore E. True. The latter, Theodore E. True, became a professional soldier and served with the Uniteil States Arniv until he reached retirement age in 1904. He became a Brigadier General and at one time gained considerable prominence for his work in leading an expedi- tion to relieve people in Nebraska who were suf- fering as a result of an onslaught of grasshop- pers in the summer of 1875. Another family which sent many sons to the Civil War was that of the Harts. While most of the Hart family lived in the southwest part of the ( Vninty, several of them lived in Mattoon or were active in its businesses or trades. "The History of Coles Count [/" written ]>y Charles E. Wilson in 1905, has this to say about the part played by Mattoon and western Coles County in the Civil War : "As an indication of the fidelity of the County to the cause of the Union in that memorable war, it may be stated that by August 1, 1862, Coles County had sent to the front thirteen companies and had three more nearly full, nmking about sixteen compan- ies in all. This would have been Coles County's quota for 163 regiments, nearly twice as many as the State had furnished up to that time. "The Adjutant General's report issued early Ford Equipment & Murphy Cut-Cost Feeds BROWN IMPLEMENT COMPANY Series FULL 3PL0W POWER for 4-row equipment 600 Dewin Ave. Mattoon, III. in 1861 showed that Coles County had tlien furnished to the Union Army more than her (juota. Her quota, unto the various calls \\\) to that time, was about 1,339, but up to October 1, 1863, she had actually furnished volunteers to the numlter of 1,870, an excess of 531 above her (juota and this did not include those who had en- listed in regiments from Missouri and otliei' states. "Not more than three, or ixissibly four, conn- ties in the State furnished as many volunteers in propoi-ti<)n to ]iojmlation as did Coles Coun- ty. In July, 18()3, about twenty men from Mat- toon and vicinity under the command of one Lane, a brotlier of T. P. C. Lane, one of tlie most respected of the early lawyers, went to Indiana to help drive out John Morgan, who was report- ed to be about to ravage that whole state. On their return, not having gotten sight of the fam- ous guerrilla, but having shown their good in- tentions at least, they were entitled to a com- plimentary dinner at the Pennsylvania House of ilattoon by its proprietor, Thomas McKee." Are there any reminders in ^lattoon of the sanguine struggle between the states in the 1860's? Well, there are the tangible things — reminders like the 18-foot-long flag pole which Congratulations from WADE'S KORNER and PACKAGE LIQUOR No order too large No order too small Wade's deliver them all Just call 6161 WADE'S KORNER SINCE 1933 38 Water flooding is forcing more oil from Illinois pools. Above, scene in the Loudon pool showing a huge source water well, a storage tank and a compressor station. Another 100,000,000 barrels of oil may be developed from the Loudon field, alone, through water injection techniques. It takes stability and a steady substantial growth to live 100 years. The Mattoon of today is a tribute to pioneer builders of the century past. Men and women making up the Carter employee family have been residents in Mat- toon a combined 450 years. Seventeen of the present staff of 60 are natives of Illinois. Some have been in Mattoon with Carter almost from the day Eastern Division headquar- ters for operations in four states were established 19 years ago. Carter years in Mattoon have been eventful years. Nearly 250,000,000 barrels of oil have been produced from Carter's Illinois pool discoveries in that time. Thirteen fields, including the 1 1,000,000 barrel Mattoon pool, have been found through the company's ex- ploratory efforts. Carter has been producing oil continuously for 62 years. Stability and steady, sub- stantial growth likewise have marked its development. Mattoon and Illinois have played and are playing a very real part in the company's progress. The Carter Dil Cninpany 39 ))eloiigs to tlie U. S. Grant Hotel. This pole sup- posedly was in use at Camp Grant at the north- east edge of the city during the Civil War. It may even have been there during the Civil War period. At one time this same pole and a Civil War period flag flew at the Dole House, now the Byers Hotel. Tiien both went into discard and were consigned to an alley junk pile. An early dentist. Dr. S. A. Campltell, saw the neglected flag and pole and protested tluit they be saved. As a result of his interest, the Hotel U. S. Grant acquired the pole, while the flag was taken over by the Byers family which had bought the old Dole House. H. R. Checkley, pres- ident of the Hotel U. S. Grant Corporation, had the flag pole refurbished for the Centennial cel- ebration. Numerous Civil War muskets and weapons of the period remain in the homes of Mattoon pion- eers who lived here during the ISfiO's. Dozens of letters written by soldiers from Mattoon have been preserved by their relatives wIki now live here. A few old uniforms of the War period are still intact. A brass tablet at the entrance of the Illinois Central Railroad station tells where I'. S. Grant took command of the 21st regiment in 1861 — the first troops he commanded in the Civil War. Over in the public liljrary is a beau- tifully framed memento of the Civil War. It preserves the renuiants of the flag carried by the heroic ll.'8rd Regiment, which saw action in a dozen of the most spectacular and deadly bat- tles. This flag was carried by John Morgan, a Mattoon youngster, who later moved to Utah and became one of the prominent leaders of the Mormon Church. John's son, Nicholas G. Mor- gan, Sr., framed the flag with a carefully exe- cuted map and description of the campaigTis of the 128rd and presented them to the city of Mat- toon and the Mattoon Historical Society in inr)0. These are the tangible remains of the Civil War. But the intangible mementos are countless. There are the stories of our soldiers in liattlc, of theii* heroics and their victories and defeats and deal lis. Tliere are the stories of Mattoon's seething disagreement from within — the con- tests between Union supporters and Southern sympathizers — called "Copperheads"; of tiie "Copperhead" rally of 3,000 people south of town: of the Charleston Riot in March, 1S(>4. which cost nine lives and involved numerous Mattoon jjcople; of the Es.sex House and its role as a link in the undergi-onnd railway which spirited Negroes from South to North and free- Compliments of Employees and Management of CENTURY BROOM WORKS, Inc. Official Decorating Company Flags and Floats W. A. FREAD DECORATING COMPANY TERRE HAUTE, INDIANA Congratulations to Mattoon on your 100th Anniversary PARSONS Paint and Wallpaper Store 1816-18 Broadway Phone 6944 YOUR DUTCH BOY DEALER Compliments of WESTERN TIRE AUTO STORES 1708 Broadway 40 THAT NEW SHOE STORE Established June, 1924 No sale is Profitable unless both that are concerned profit. THAT OLD SHOE STORE September, 1955 NEWGENTS SHOE STORE The Heart of Broadway AUTOMATIC HEAT COMPANY Heating and Appliances PHONE 2992 2020 WESTERN COLES-MOULTRIE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE "Leads the Community in Rural Progress" E. RT. 16 & LOGAN PHONE 4113 SPITZ CLOTHIERS, INC. Men's and Boy's Clothing FORTY YEARS Serving Men and Boys STYLE and QUALITY "Satisfaction or Money Back" The Confidence of the public is our most cherished possession — the Confidence, Friendship and Patronage of our customers Congratulations from the have been obtained by carrying Quality Mer- chandise at the right price. EMPLOYEES and MANAGEMENT Mattoon's Friendly Store of F. E.WALTERS 5 Cr 10 JACKSON'S RESTAURANT 1509-11 Broadway Ave. 41 Program of Daily Events MATTOON CENTENNIAL SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 QUEEN CORONATION DAY Morning and Afternoon — Paul Duffield Tennis Tournament - Lawson Park. Evening, 9:00 — Coronation Ball - Coronation of Mattoon's Centennial Queen and presentation of Court of Honor - Music by Don Glasser and his world famous NBC Band. Dancing till 1 :00 at High School Gym with Square Dancing on street. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 FREEDOM OF RELIGION DAY Morning — Centennial Services in ALL Churches Afternoon — Open house in Mattoon Churches. Diaramic Transportation Exhibit — Downtown Mattoon by Brotherhood of Railway Clerks. His- torical Window Displays — Downtown Mattoon. Centennial Tea — Sponsored by Sisters of the Svvish — Masonic Temple. Illinois State Horse- shoe Pitching Tournament — Peterson Park. Semi-Finals — Paul Duffield Tennis Tourna- ment — Lawson Park. Evening, 8:15 — Massed outdoor service commem- orating 100 years of Religious Freedom and growth in Mattoon. Address by Dr. J. Walter Malone, President of Millikin University. Music by the Combined Choirs of Mattoon Churches under the direction of Dr. S. H. Allen. MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 — LABOR DAY Morning, 9:00 — Reunion of Class of 1916 Mat- toon High School Breakfast at U. S. Grant Hotel. Semi-Finals — Illinois State Horseshoe Pitching Contest — Peterson Park. Semi-Finals — Paul Duffield Tennis Tournament — Lawson Park. Afternoon, 2:00 — Gigantic Patriotic and Histor- ical Parade — Downtown Mattoon. Bands, Marching Units, Mounted Units and floats of all kinds. Open of Centennial Gayway-Blue Grass Shows — Peterson Park. Rides and fun for all. Opening of Industrial Exposition — Mattoon Products on Display — Peterson Park. Aerial Performances free to all. Marsha — ■ America's trapeze prodigy. Bronos swaying comets. Tennis tournament finals — Lawson Park. Horseshoe Pitching finals — - Peterson Park. All Day and Evening — Historical window displays, Downtown Mattoon. Railroad Exhibit, Downtown Mattoon. Evening, 7:45 — Pre-Pageant Entertainment, Evening, 8:15 — Premier Presentation of the Mighty Historical Pageant-Spectacle "Mattoon Memories" with a cast of over 400 local people, with an awe-inspiring fireworks finale. TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 — YOUTH DAY (Sponsored by Kiwanis Club) Morning, 9:30 — Registration of Pioneers and vis- itors — Hospitality Center Hotel Byers. Afternoon, 12:30 — Registration of boys and girls at Centennial Headquarters. Afternoon, 1 :30 — Kiddies pet-costume and bicy- cle parade — prizes to be awarded. High school to Peterson Park. Afternoon, 2:30 — Games, sports and contests — cash prizes and awards — Peterson Park. Afternoon, 3:30 — Free aerial Acts — Marsha and the Swaying Comets. Demonstration "FIRE MA- GIC" by Dr. Lewellen Heard, Research Chemist, Standard Oil Company — Peterson Park. Chil- dren's Day on the Centennial Gayway — Rides and shows. All Day and Evening — Historical Window Dis- plays — Downtown Mattoon. Railroad Exhibit — Downtown Mattoon. Industrial Exposition — Peterson Park. Evening, 7:45 — Pre-Pageant Entertainment. Evening, 8:15 — Second presentation of the Huge Historical Pageant-Spectacle "Mattoon Memor- ies" with brilliant fireworks finale. WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 — LADIES' DAY Morning and All Day — Registration of Pioneers and visitors — Hospitality Center Byers Hotel. Morning, 9-1 1 — Sisters of the Swish Coffee Side- walk Cafes. 1 . In front of Merle Norman — Charleston Ave. 2. In front of Birdies Hat Shop — Broadway and 17th. 3. In front of Wilb Walkers — Western Ave. 4. In front of Fred Smith Shoes — Broadway and 16th. 42 Afternoon, 1 :30 — Auction of Centennial Quilt — 17th and Broadway. Afternoon, 2:00 — Centennial Style Show and Fashion Parade. Sisters of the Swish — Awards for the best costume — 17th and Broadway. Afternoon, 3:30 — Demonstration "FIRE MAGIC" by Dr. Lewellen Heard, Research Chemist, Standard Oil Company — Peterson Park All Day and Evening — Historical Window Dis- play — Downtown Mattoon. Railroad Exhibit — Downtown Mattoon. Industrial Exposition — Peterson Park Free Aerial Acts — Marsha and the Bronos. Centennial Gayway — Carnival rides and fun. Evening, 7:45 — Presentation of Style Show Win- ners — Pageant stage. Evening, 8:15 — Third presentation of the His- torical Pageant - Spectacle "Mattoon Memories" with fireworks finale. Afternoon, 4:00 — Demonstration "FIRE MAGIC" by Dr. Lewellen Heard, Research Chemist, Stand- ard Oil Company — Peterson Park. Afternoon and Evening — Historical Window Dis- play — Downtown Mattoon. Railroad Exhibit — Downtown Mattoon. Free aerial acts — Marsha and Bronos. Performances afternoon and evening. Industrial Exposition — Peterson Park. Centennial Gayway — Peterson Park. Evening, 7:45 — Pre-Pageant Entertainment. Evening, 8:15 — Fifth performance of the histor- ical pageant-spectacle "Mattoon Memories" with a fireworks finale — Peterson Park. Evening, 10:00 — Free Street Dance Mattoon. Downtown SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 AGRICULTURE DAY THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 — GOVERNOR'S DAY Morning and All Day — Registration of visitors and pioneers — Centennial Hospitality Center — Byers Hotel. Morning, 10:00 — Reception of Governor Stratton and party, U. S. Grant Hotel. Morning, 1 1 :30 — Mayors Luncheon with visiting officials from surrounding area — Governor Stratton, Guest of Honor — Masonic Temple. Afternoon, 2:00 — Governor's Parade — marching units, bands, horses, floats, and shrine bands. High School to Peterson Park via Broadway. Afternoon, 4:00 — Demonstration "FIRE MAGIC" by Dr. Lewellen Heard, Research Chemist, Stand- ard Oil Company — Downtown. All Day and Evening — Historical Window Dis- play — Downtown Mattoon. Railroad Exhibit — Downtown Mattoon. Industrial Exposition — Peterson Park. Free Aerial Acts — Marsha and the Bronos. Centennial Gayway — Carnival rides and fun. One performance afternoon and eve- ning. Evening, 8:15 — Fourth presentation of the His- torical Pageant-Spectacle "Mattoon Memories" with fireworks finale. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 — INDUSTRIAL DAY Morning and All Day — Registration of visitors and pioneers — Hospitality Center Byers Hotel. Morning and All Day — Registration of visitors and pioneers — Hospitality Center Byers Hotel. Morning, 10:00 — Judging of Beards — Broth- ers of the Brush — 1 7th and Broadway — Prizes awarded in five classes. Morning, 11:30 — Shaving Contest — Prize to be awarded. Afternoon, 1:30 — Awarding of prizes for oldest resident, longest resident, and resident coming greatest distance. Afternoon, 2:00 — Agriculture progress parade — High School to Peterson Park via Broadway and Western Ave. Afternoon, 4:00 — Awarding of prizes — Antique Autos and floats — Peterson Park. Afternoon, 4:30 — Time Capsule Ceremony — City Hall. All Day and Evening — Historical Window Dis- play — Downtown Mattoon. Model Railroad Ex- hibit — Downtown Mattoon. Industrial Exposi- tion — Peterson Park. Antique Auto Display — Peterson Park. Centennial Gayway-Carnival rides and fun. Free aerial acts — Marsha and Bronos Swaying Comets. Matinee and evening perform- ances. Evening, 7:30 — Presentation of winners — Broth- ers of the Brush. Presentation of winners — Pioneers. Presentation of winners — - Auto and Tractor. Evening, 8:15 — Sixth and final performance "Mattoon Memories" 43 THE CITIZENS OF MATTOON Proudly Present The Grand Dramatic Pageant-Spectacle 55 "Mattoon Memories September 5-10, 8:15 at Peterson Park A John B. Rogers Production DICK QUAY Promotion and Business Manager Historical Research By Mattoon Historical Society RICHARD T. SPITLER Producer - Director PROLOGUE This lovely, colorful scene is dedicated to the Queen and her Court of Honor. It features the youth of Mattoon in a dramatic salute to the Mat- toon Centennial. SCENE 1 "An Early Indian Village" One of splendor, this scene takes us back to "pre-settler" days in Mattoon. It shows an actual Indian Village and is highlighted by two authentic Indian dances. SCENE 2 "The First Settlers" Showing the layout of the village of Mattoon in the early 1 800's, we see Sharles Sawyer and a group of surveyors as they prepare to map the area. SCENE 3 "Wagons West" "Fascinating" is what you will say when you see the arrival of this actual wagon train. "Magnifi- cent" is the word for the lighting and scenery, and "glorious" is the entire scene as it is climaxed by the square dance. town of Mattoon. A heated argument ensued but to the satisfaction of all, the town is named in hon- or of William B. Mattoon. SCENE 5 "Remember The Sabbath" Without thought of depicting ony one specific faith, we humbly present this scene as a repre- sentative religious sequence in the lives of our pioneer forefathers. SCENE 6 "The Dawn of Education" Both humorous and educational, "The Dawn of Education" shows one of the first schools in Mat- toon as it was conducted by Mr. James A. Mc- Cullum. SCENE 7 "The Coming of the Railroad" In the month of October, in 1856, the first train rolled into the booming little community of Mattoon. It was a delightful day and the town had an air of a celebration. This scene takes us back to that October day and features the favorite dance of the day, the Virginia Reel. SCENE 4 "The Founding of Mattoon" The year is 1855, the place is Mattoon (then called Pegtown) , the event is the naming of the SCENE 8 "The Lincoln-Douglas Debate" 1858 was a year of history making political de- bates for the Senatorship of Illinois. One of the most important debates in history took place at 44 Charleston, when Stephen Douglas and Abraham Lincoln met. This scene shows this meeting, and a portion of that debate. SCENE 9 "The War Between The States" Showing Ulysses S. Grant assuming command of his first troops in Mattoon and a battle tableau of the Civil War, this scene is one of factual intrigue- ment. SCENE 10 "Freedom For All" Out of the turmoil and tragedy of the Civil War, came the gentle, steadfast voice of Abraham Lin- coln. This episode shows Lincoln delivering his most famous speech. SCENE 11 "The Gay 90's" The period of bikes, bustles and braverity is shown in these next few minutes, as nearly 100 people take us back to the Gay 90's. The scene also features one of the most famous dances of the 90's, the Can Can. SCENE 15 "World War Two" Mattoon, like many other American cities was "shocked" at the brutal Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. From Mattoon went many brave men and women who fought for freedom of the world. This scene is presented as recognition to these heroic citizens. SCENE 16 "The Atomic Age" After the war came a new era to the whole country. It was called . . . "The Atomic Age" and as a means of showing you a replica of an atomic blast, we have employed the services of a profes- sional fireworks company. SCENE 17 "The Hall of Fame" From the various pageant scenes we call on those persons who have contributed so much to make our community the fine place it is in which to live. SCENE 18 "To The Future" Featuring the entire pageant cast, we salute the future in a gigantic mass ensemble. SCENE 12 "The Great Disaster" The year 1917 saw the worst single disaster ever to hit Mattoon, as a tornado in less than two min- utes, ripped through the city. Disaster is certainly not a pleasant thing to dramatize but is a neces- sary segment of the Mattoon story. SCENE 13 "World War One" To the men and women from Mattoon who bravely served in World War One, this scene is dedicated. SCENE 14 "The Roaring Twenties" We are certain that you will enjoy our Mattoon- ettes as they dance the favorite dance of the Twen- ties, the Charleston. MATTOON CENTENNIAL QUEEN CANDIDATES As this booklet goes to press, the Mattoon Cen- tennial Queen and her Ten Attendants in the Court of Honor have not been selected. The citizens of Mattoon may well pay tribute to the following candidates whose civic spirit, energy and ingenuity was a major contribution to the success of the Mat- toon Centennial. Claire Ann Abel Rosina Alexander Sandi Bolin Kay Churchman Kaye Cowger Lila Elliott Gay Furry Sara Gover Connie Howell Jean Ann Judge Jan Kelly Mrs. Ann Lewellen Shirley Newby Carolyn Orndorff Willa Ferryman Willie Podesta Jo Poffinbarger Marilyn Shirley Joan Speer Sue Stansbery Marilyn Swank Judee Sweet Betty Tingley Carol Wall Martha Weaver Sallie Weber 45 'MATTOON MEMORIES" CAST PROLOGUE Narrators — Jack Horsley W. K. Kidwell Rex Adams Phyllis Ariens Peggy Leman Pete George SCENE 1 "An Early Indian Village' Indian Girls — Gloria Hillerby Jeannie Hillerby Vicki Perry Judith Lynn Harris Kay Nash Marcelline Morgan Roberta Sue Newgent Joyce Ann Riner Carol Riner Mounted Guard of Honor Fred Campbell Gene Grisamore David Townley Harold Cross "Doc" Whitley David Champion Paul Hilgenberg Lloyd Farrell Woody Gass Warren Hall Arnold Brown Ralph Townley Wayne Swisher Bob Zellers Ed Reimann Wayne Andrews Pageant Choir — Under The Direction of Dr. S. H. Allen Accompanist — Mrs. Florence Myers Trumpeters — Carol Gibson Martha Weaver Sue Pridemore Donna Ruland Gail Pasey Cadets — Page Stewart Nancy Wilson Linda Kull Katie Dawson Susie Weiss Karen Tucker Jackies — Nancy Sanders Kay Gordy Judy Checkley Mary Ann Short Ann Record Lynn Patterson Miss Columbia Donna Wallace Carol Homann Carol Benton Carol Michaels Linda Kimery Nancy Furry Judy Mangold Carol Tolle Roxanne George Becky Bouch Madonna Sieben Shirley Livesay Marilyn Homann Sandra Johnston Gail Pasey Judy Eaton Visiting Indians — Ralph Roderick Robert Wood Messenger — Glenn Roth Indian Boy Dancers Gary Irby Joel Hendricks Billy Easton Jerry Neff Mike Farmer Dennis Moore Indian Chief — Jack Dobson Indian Squaws — Opal Martin Mabel McCall Helen Cole Mrs. Robert Woods Virginia Kersey Romona Holtgrewe Catherine Houchin Ruth Roth Indian Braves — Mike Roberts Betty Orndorff George KastI Benny Pleasant Steven Spangler Bob Olson RoVinie Williams Dennis Dobson Pete Bowen Steve Short Gene Eagleson Jr. Jerry Wallace May Douglas Leia McCumber Jean Warfel Juanita Shadow Pat Poorman Pauline Campbell Julia Nelson Ruby Campbell Charles Parks Fred Parks Melvin Johnson Neil Olson Russel Wisely SCENE 2 'The First Settlers' Out Rider — David Champion Attendants — Judy Phelps Martha Jones Ellen Sampson Patty Behrend Janice Kidwell Also in Prologue — Boy Scouts of Mattoon Girl Scouts of Mattoon Jane Wilson Patty Grounds Janet Cornell Jan Michaels Sandy Hatfill Cub Scouts of Mattoon Brownie Scouts of Mattoon SCENE 3 "Wagons West' Pioneer Girls — Sherl Oliver Margaret Allsebrook Juanita Anderson Brenda Linder Karen Anderson Sue Miller Leagene King Ann Checkley Joan Lebrecht 46 Pioneer Boys — David Champion Tommy Taylor Darwin Nelson Timmy Richards Harry Siebert Pioneer Couples — Mr. and Mrs. M. Garbe Mr. and Mrs. L. Lampher Mr. and Mrs. Ad King Mr. and Mrs. Albert Landon Mr. and Mrs. O. Wright Mr. and Mrs. G. Orndorff Mr. and Mrs. C. Carrol Mr. and Mrs. Les Daily Larry Kepley Gary Kepley Joe Hovicus Gary Lebrecht Steven Lebrecht Mr. and Mrs. W. Swisher Mr, and Mrs. K. Carrell Mr. and Mrs. C. Elliott Mr. and Mrs. Don Degler Mr. and Mrs. Paul Millam Mr. and Mrs. J. Lebrecht Mr. and Mrs. Mines SCENE 4 'The Founding of Mattoon" Ebenexer Noyes — George Davison Benjamin Turney — Mr. Adam Smith Townspeople — Mrs. Adam Smith Mrs. Harley Alfred Stephen Dexter Dole Mr. Harley Alfred William Mattoon — Mr. Raymond Shrader Mrs. George Davison Mrs. Raymond Shrader SCENE 5 "Remember The Sabbath' Minister — John Speer Congregation portrayed by cast from Scene 3. SCENE 6 "The Dawn of Education" Teacher — Everett L. Green Boys — Steven Henderson George Kizer Joseph Dale Beavers Girls — Sharon Jean Fryman I Teacher's Pet I Carol Frances Pamela Elain Burggraf James Michael Beavers Dennis Henderson Joyce Fitzpatrick Anita Kay Moffett Patty Wise SCENE 7 'The Coming of the Railroad" "Old" Fashioned Men Earl White M. H. Whitley Virgil Burggraf Ernest Everman Mr. Monroe Howard Davis Dr. Berkheimer Harlan Hart T. J. Shanks Howard Pyle Kenneth Smith Delbert Neher "Old" Fashioned Women Lora Francis Fannie Copeland Mrs. Ernest Everman Mary Waltrip Flossy Coy Doris White Mrs. Hart Mrs. M, H. Whitley Marion L. Burggraf Mrs. Edgar Lake Hazel Galbreth Mrs. J. F. Smith Mrs. Monroe Abraham Lincoln — Mr. File Stephen Dexter Dole — O. H. Wily Townsman — Mr. Ward SCENE 8 'The Lincoln-Douglas Debate" Steven Douglas — Mel Rogers James T. Cunninghan Mr. Lampert SCENE 9 'The War Between The States' Union Officer — Don Walker Union Soldiers — Dick Harris Dick Poehler Ferd Homann Wilb Walker Confederate Officer • M. H. Whitley Confederate Soldiers T. J. Shanks Bus Hart E. S. White Howard Pyle General Grant — Gene Bauer Virgil Judge Ernest Everman Don Pennell Kenneth Smith Howard Davidson Virgil Burggraf Del Neher SCENE 10 'Freedom For All" Lifeguards — Charles Montgomery Bob Checkley Bathing Beauties — Mrs. Peggy Fuesting Shirley Morris Joyce Tucker Norma Metcalf Bathing Beauty Judge — Dr. Lampert Elmer the Photographer — Bill Checkley SCENE 11 'The Gay 90's" Side Saddle Rider Eleanor Cain Faye Haddock Donna Blakemore Betty Higgens Evelyn Malone Medicine Man — A. R. Smith 47 Ball Players — Denny Hamma Phil Becker Dave Mangold Firemen — Ed Berkowitz Dave Tracy Auto Couples — Mr. and Mrs. Roy Corzine Police Gazette Girls — Jean Orndorff Rosemary McAndrew Claire Stein Pioneers — Mrs. J. C. Robertson Myrna Cougill Strollers — Edna Crites Alberta Highland Mrs. J. C. Davis Maxine Anderson Floriene Hetzer Shirley Anderson Suzanne Fleming Mrs. E. A. Spidell Gay Ninety Cop — Win Stewart Bicycle Riders — June Fitt Bill Severns Randy Madeira Charlie Wright H. G. Smith SAr. and Mrs. James Pinnell Rosemary Ritchey Anna Duffy Emma Parker Frank Mayer Paul Foor Dorothy Dole Dolores Weber Martha Collinsworth Maggie Kirts Mary Jane Jemsek Dale Trout Janice Wilkehm Pauline Lawrence George Davison Radio Announcer — John Winterroth Iwo Jima — Ted Johnson SCENE 16 "The Atomic Age" Gigantic Fireworks Display SCENE 17 "The Hall of Fame" Members of the Cast SCENE 18 'To The Future" Entire Pageant Cast CENTENNIAL OFFICE PERMANENT OFFICE STAFF — Marion Hill Rebecca Adrian SCENE 12 'The Great Disaster" Doughboys — James W. Noble Homer Corzine Loy Shook Jr. SCENE 13 'World War One" Willie Harris Lawrence Kindel SCENE 14 "The Roaring Twenties" Charleston Dancers — Nancy Hoelscher Carolyn Bougher Sharon Robinson Linda Donnell Sandra Heath Elizabeth Heint Niki Hill Jerry Adrian Becky Bouch SCENE 15 'World War Two" Family Group — Mr. and Mrs. G. L. Parsons Guilford Parsons III Royal Parsons Marilya Meagher David Meagher Christinia Johnson — THANKS — The Centennial Committee expresses its appre- ciation for the contributions made by the follow- ing individuals and organizations: Neumode Hosiery Shop Myers Bros. Hampton Jewelers Elliotts Jewelers Earl Ross Clothiers Wolfe Auto Supply Lampert Jewelers Gibson's Furniture Store Furste Auto Supply T. V. Janes Appliance Ray Elder Sign Service Fred Smith Shoe Store Edna Davison Chas. Seng & Son Classic Beauty Shop Hart & Reilly Constr. Co. Walts Camera Shop S. S. Kresge Co. Stalcup Glass Co. Cradle and Tot Shop Bradley's Mary Bowles Shop Rainbow Gardens Edwin Gucker and Son Drs. Podesta and Glenn Frank Holmes Warner Off ice Equip. Co. Illinois Poolroom Midwest Homes Montgomery Ward Co. Niemeyer's Farm Serv. Store A & B Transfer Mattoon Implement Co. International Harvester Omer Easton Ken Jakle Mattoon Post Office Electric Meter Lab House's Tavern Brown Shoe Co. Helen Montgomery Rathe Nursery 48 YOUR LUMBER YARD Satisfaction Guaranteed Lumber Millwork Roofing Glass Paint Siding Flooring Floor Coverings Plastic Tile Ceramic Tile LET US HELP BUILD MATTOON FOR THE NEXT ICO YEARS COIVSTRUCTIDIV MATERIALS CDMPAMY 312 So. 21st St. Phone 5631 We Are Proud . . . To have had so large a part in the remarkable growth of Mattoon in the past one-third century. COMPLETE WEATHERPROOFING FOUNDATION TO ROOF mDUSTRIAL RDDFING CDMPAIVY 717 SOUTH 19TH STREET DIAL 6487 Sheet Metal Fabricators Since 1921 49 (loin; of the part Abraham Lincoln played in the feelings of Mattoon people toward the War and the Union itself. Throughout the Civil War, Coles Conntv was a middle area — one part ''Copperhead" and one part "Union", although the latter was dominant. Because .sentiment was somewhat divided, can- didates for office concentrated their campaigns in the central part of the State where a few votes one way or the other might make the difference between victoi-y and defeat in the whole state. But after the War, the people of Mattoon sub- merged their differences and joinetl their efforts to launch the rough prairie town on a feverish building campaign. The result was that by 1870 Mattoon was one of the strongest and fastest growing towns in the central eastern part of the state and quickly raced past cities which were older in years. Meanwhile, the descendants of some of the heroes of the War — the Monroes, Kichraonds, the Trues, and the Biggs — became stalwart leaders of the new town. Congratulations from POOR'S Service Center The people that can save you money by Brake Service - — Tire T rueing Wheel Alignment - - Wheel Balanci ■^g 2017 Western Ave. Phone 3636 i ! KENNETT-MURRAY Cr CO. Farmers FRED WHITE For top prices every day on Hogs, Calves and Sheep PLUMBING and HEATING We Buy Every Day Except Saturday Sell Where They Net More Phone 5431 116 N. 16th St. MATTOON STOCK YARDS Phone 5675 All Checks Bonded for Your Protection 50 ,»*>>-^- , l. CO >- ra 01 > 'c c < o o c o o -4— 4- o 0) i_ +- 3 c ly o o f If -.- !• ,- ■XZ:% - I CO o CO CO ffl ^ z O u o o Q I- < o a. O U o O) c c a O) > o U -o c ra 0) X O "^ LU o u • a. OJ c O ^ ^ ra o o c © (J I 1- 01 E o. 3 U E u ra < a; :2 • o 1- c < > ^■3 Q. fi^ ^ CO Ik b < -1 -J o 0) C CQ ^ ^ 3 a. \- 0) ra LU < o Ly ra lU 1- lAJ :? < D 3 U lij Z 51 Part V — BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL GROWTH The old Mattoon Hotel, also more generally known as the Dole House, and more recently as the Byers Hotel, stands as a sym- bol of Mattoon's renowTi as a hotel and foods center. Con- struction on the Dole House started in 1866 and was com- pleted by the Dole brothers in 1869. Miss Carrie Kingman, the foremost lady financier and bus- iness woman in Mattoon's his- toid, made it a well-known hotel during the latter part of the last century. Its chief rival was the noted Essex House, w-hich stood until the tracks of the Illinois Central were lowered in 1915. by Walter Kciitpcr, James Jlartei/ Wright, Paul Kizer (Bas((l on jKijicrs Cii)i)iiii(j]ia)n , A*. and others.) Although ilattoon'.s early commercial life was built around the railroads, other enterprises gradually were founded to supplement the eco- nomic life of the community. Many of these busi- nesses, such as grain elevators, depended directly on the railroads for their business. Others, such as the wagon and l>uggy factories, were inde- pendent of our principal enterprise. At one time, after the close of the Civil War, Mattoon had tliiee prosperous buggy factories which em- ])loyed more than 100 people. An Illiitois Central Railroad Director stated in 1869 that . . . "Mattoon . . . has . . . four A Salute to the MATTOON CENTENNIAL MATTDDN GARMENT COMPANY Division of R & M KAUFMANN CO., INC. — AURORA, ILL. Vicky Vaughn - Toni Todd Originals 52 Compliments of EDWIN GUCKER & SON Western Avenue Florists Phone 5667 THE OFFICE OF H. R. CHECKLEY Established in 1913 Leading in the field of Insurance and Real Estate 1607 Charleston Ave. — Mattoon, Illinois THE PLEASANT STUDIO "Mattoon's Leading Portrait Studio" 120 South 17th Street Est. 1905 ELMER F. GOETZ Vel-erinarian Greetings from THE MATTOON LIQUOR DRIVE-IN "Service with a smile" is our motto Use our Drive- In for fast service Just Dial 7363 for Free Delivery 2017 Broadway Are. R. D. RAMSEY EXCAVATING FARM DRAINAGE CRANE WORK OF ALL KINDS BULLDOZING FAST SERVICE— JOB OR HOUR RATES CULVERT AND BRIDGE WORK Mattoon, Illinois Phone 4866 Compliments of HAROLD'S CLEANERS "GOOD CLEANING" is our Business Telephone 6100 1109 Broadway Mattoon, Illinois 53 hotels, and another will be erected this season . . . a national bank with a capital of flOO.OOO; a printing- office; three newspapers; 80 stores of all kinds . . . and 21 manufacturing establish- ments." Most of these plants were extremely small and specialized in equipment used for farming. But in the early 1870's, several larger busi- nesses were established here. One was Chuse & Co., e.staldished in 1872 by J. F. Chuse and Rich- ard Heap. They specialized in steam engine re- pair and the limited manufacture of small ma- chines. The company grew rapidly and expand- ed its quarters in the area lietween Thirteenth & Fourteenth streets soutli of the Big Four tracks — a location now occupied by the Young Radiator Co. The small company founded by Mr. Chuse was to grow in the early part of the 20th century into the Chuse Engine & Manu- facturing Co., a distinguished firm in Mattoon's history which prospered until the dejtression years "of the 1930's. Two clay tile companies were among the early aristocrats in Mattoon's manufacturing history. One was founded by J. W. Hogue in 1876, at the south edge of Mattoon. It prospered for 30 years. A second factory, founded by Theodore Jonte in 1883, prt)spered until the end of the first decade of the present century. Millions of brick as well We don't want all the business — Just Yours 1^ Ei_Ec:-ri:^ic: LICENSED — CONTRACTOR Installation and repair of anything electrical Day Phone 6767 - Night 4361 121 N. 15th Street Mattoon, Illinois LAWRENCE MYERS Owner as tile were turned out by this large iilant lo- cated at the north edge of Mattoon. Another of the early successful maniifacturers was H. W. Clark who founded a coiniiaiiy whicli carries the Clark name to this day. Mr. Clark's invention of a feasible meter box for city water systems led to gi-eat prosperity for tiie firm lie founded at the turn of the century. ^Vitll the gi-owth of Mattnon's business and iu- dnstrial life, financial institutions grew ajiace. Indeed, iu tlic early years tiiey were often out in front of the general growth of the city. Mat- toon's first ]iernianent bank, the First National Bank of ^Mattoon, was founded in 1865. From the standpoint of assets, it ranked with some of the strongest banks in the State. Also, it was the first of the national lianks in the State of Illi- nois of conqiarable size, and the 2.")tb in the na- tion e.stablished under the National I'.aidcing Act signed by President Lincoln. This \n\\\k later merged with the Mattoon Nntiouid liank fouiid- ed in lS7(i, to foi ni the present National Bank of Mattoon. One other baidv, the Central Na- tional Bank of Mattoon, prospers during cen- tennial year. It was established in lillO as the Central Illinois Trust & Savings Bank. Building and loan a.s.soeiations also have played a key role in Mattoon's growth thi'ough the years. The oldest of these was the iNIattoon GIVING SATISFACTORY SERVICE SINCE 1932 54 Compliments of Compliments of ORVILLE E. HUFF Licensed Master Plumber, Cert. No. 2508 L R. GUCKER, Florist 30 Years Of Floral Service PLUMBING and HEATING Member of Florist's Telegraph Delivery Association 1113 Broadway Phone 2456 Nite Phone 5283 Telephone 7493 16th St. and Wabash Ave. MAIIOON, ILLINOIS BLACKWELL'S MUSIC SHOP Records CONGRATULATIONS Radios FROM Music Supplies Band Instruments Television CUMBERLAND COACHES, INC. Phone 5252 1517 Broadway Maftoon, Illinois BRIDGES DRUG STORE Your Prescription Store 21st and Western Avenue Phone 6769 Congratulations from THE UNION BARBERSHOPS John Lawyer — 1 420 Broadway Albert Homann — 106 S. 16th St. Zed Brooks — 1 828 Broadway Gerald Houts — ^1117 Broadway Donald Borror — 104 S. 19th St. W. W. Marshall 1901 Shelby V. R. Coffey — 111 S. 16th St. John C. Mullens — 1822 Broadway H. V. Bullerman Windsor, III. SUBWAY PHARMACY Louis B. Neira, R. Ph. YOUR FRIENDLY DRUG STORE Where Your Prescriptions are Always Filled As They Should Be Free Delivery Service 1804 Broadway Ave. Dial 6444 ELI D. STORM GENERAL BLACKSMITHING & WELDING Steel - Heavy Hardware SINCE 1883 122 N. 15th Street Mattoon, Illinois 55 Building & Loan Association ehartered in 1883. L. L. Lelinian, president of the First National Bank of Mattoon, also headed the building and loan company. Acting officer for the company as secretary was a noted personality of the early years who made a name for himself in the Civil War — Capt. Joseph Withingtou. Because of its strategic location. Mattoon has always supported several successful hotel and dining establishments. Within tlie first five years tlie city had two well known liotels, one of which was to survive for more than 75 years and to become a symbol of Mattoon's im- portance in Eastern Illinois. Tlie Pennsylvania House, one of the first built, served for main- years and once entertained Abraham Lincoln overnight. The Essex House, built I)y a noted pioneer, Ebenezer Noyes, created for itself a dis- tinguished tradition. It served as a link in the "underground railway" system which spirited Negroes from South to Nortli and freedom, but its principal reputation came from the service it gave thousands upon thousands of travelers. The Essex was dismantled in 1915 to make way for the lowering of the Illinois Central Railroad tracks. Immediately after the Civil War, tlie Dole NIEMEYER COAL COMPANY and NIEMEYER FARM STORE Quality Merchandise - Superior Service MATTOON, ILLINOIS brothers, Stephen Dexter and Josepli, completed a hotel started by a syndicate of builders. They named it the Dole House — a hotel we know today as the Byers Hotel. Our city's newest ho- tel, tlie U. S. Grant, was completed in 1928, and is a landmark in our century. Numerous fine restaurants, including the Grant dining room. Dinner Bell, Castle Inu, KnoAvles Cafeteria and others perpetuate Mattoon's reputation for lio- tels and good food. Newspapers and Radio Through the years Mattoon's story of growth has been faithfully recorded by a numlier of splendid newspapers and in the last decade by the added voice of a radio station. Beginning almost with the founding year, Mattoon has had at least one newspaper con- tinuously in print. On June 7, 1856, a pioneer citizen, R. AV. Houghton, started printing the Weekly Independent Gazette — a four-page pub- lication, Init three of those pages were printed in Terre Haute rather than Mattoon. After a succession of owners, the Gazette eventually came into the hands of H. F. Kendall who car- — THE HOME OF QUALITY- SALES SERVICE DEALER OF Westinghouse Appliances Zenitn Radio and T. V. Youngstown Kitchens Maytag Washers Ironrite Ironers Deepfreeze Freezers Chambers Gas Ranges Wesco Air Conditioners We Operate an Up-to-Date Service Depart- ment for All Makes of Radios & TV, Washers and Refrigerators — Also Appliances. 1912-14 Western Ave. Telephone 7888 MATTOON, ILLINOIS 56 MATTDDIV CEIVTEMIAL 1855- 1955 In Memory of My Family My Grandmofher, JULIA BLAND GALLOWAY Who came to Mattoon in the early days from Ken- tucky, following the death of her husband. My Aunt MARY ELIZABETH GALLOWAY My Mother, NANCY GALLOWAY KIZER My Father, GEORGE ANDREW KIZER ZENIAR KIZER EDWARDS 57 lied the paper's tradition.s into the present cen- tury and established a format and general policy which even today is not radically altered. Of the several newspapers established through the years, only the Journal, which was purchased in 1905 by Mr. Kendall, and the Commercial en- joyed marked successes. The Commercial was op- erated for many years by the t^umerlin family which had unu.sual talents in the journalistic field, especially as typified in the earlier days by weekly newspaper editors. Other newspapers were the Radical Republican, which failed after a short tenure under Ebenezer Xoyes. and the Star, founded by John Cunningham, .son of the great pioneer, James T. Cunningham. Mr. Cun- ningham showed unusual abilities as a writer but was less astute as a business man. Mattoou took another step forward in the field of mass communications when, on November 26. 1946. Radio Station WLBH Avent on the air with 250 watts power on 1170 kilocycles. This gave Mattoon a voice, carrying its message to several hundred thousand people residing within 75 miles of Mattoon. WLBH first was born in the min-bolt in the floor to i)ull the animal down as idose to the floor as possible. Then the muscular butcher wonid swing a poll axe around his head and crash it down on the animal's forehead. Then with knife the slanghterinji, skinning and slic- ing began. With lamb and mutton, the process was a little easier. I would hold the ainmal on the floor while the bntcher simply slit its throat. The hides and pelts were sold to jobbers, of whom my father was one for some years. But the significant thing about this meat business was that animals liutchered on Friday were cut up into the usual steaks, roasts etc., on Saturday and delivered by jiush cart early Sunday morn- ing before I went to Sunday School. There was no such thing as "ageing meat" in refrigerators for several weeks before its sale. Xo wonder much of it was tough. But also how skejttical wore the housewives over the suggestion in later years that chilled meats several weeks old could be shipped from the big packing houses and not be unfit for food. Because my father sold hides and tallow to the tanners and soap manufacturers and bought leathers and shoefinding for the local and itin- erant cobblers, some of those operations still stick in my mind. We rarely bought shoes ready- made. There was a deaf and dumb cobl)ler who came to our home once a year and took measui-e- ments for all the family. Still there were shoe stores and they did repair work. Among the findings my father sold to such establishments were wooden shoe pegs and shoemakers wax. Half-soles and heals were pegged on with these wooden pegs. They came clear through the in- ner soles and the points had to be shorn off by the use of a rotary machine which had sharp knives which could be inserted in the shoes. I nearly had a finger cut off by one of the con- trivances and that taught me not to "monkey with the buzz saw." The wax was used on the thread the cobblers needed for sewing. But it was the delight of the boys and girls for chewing. It You Call We Haul No Job Too Large No Job Too Small JUST DIAL 2833 Ethinqton i rmisf er 2320 CHARLESTON AVE. 82 CONGRATULATIONS MATTOON FOR 100 YEARS You Have Grown So Hove We For Positive Proof Come And See flcB TMNSFER R. W. (Russ) Alfred D. D. (Doug) Byars 83 had a high resin content and it prodneed such brown saliva that we could imitate the nion-folks in the very ijrevalent tobacco chewing and spit- ting. I do not remember any tailors. Men's clothes were almost always "hand-me-downs". In the case of father and brother and self, they usually came from Katz's Store for Men. AVell do I re- call Mr. Katz making a play on woi-ds in the sign over his store front. There were in the center depicted several lit- tle kittens which always took my fancy. Moses Alshuler ran the biggest dry goods store at the time before he failed in business, moved north of ("hicago to Waukegan and with his sons de- veloped a big business in "Mother Hubbard'' wrappers for women, the all-popular garl) for morning wear around the house. Buck soon de- veloped a bigger store, which took on depart- ments. Then came Bauer & Shuloff with their modern ways of selling notions. Xearly all these stores were stretched out along Broadway, which also was the great ren- dezvous for Saturday night strolling. Aside from those places where food and clothing and house- hold goods were sold, there were centers of at- traction, especially for the younger set. I forgot to mention the hardware stores of Kurtz Broth- ers and Hasl)rouck and Kitter which cooperated Avith salesmen for harvesting and plowing ma- chinery. I worked for a dollar a week for E. T. Kinney, who sold harvesters at Haslu-ouck's — but to return to youth activities. There was Han- na's Book Store, which housed the first little subscription library of paperl)acked books. He also sold pianos and sheet music. In one corner of the store Edward Thielens, brother-in-law to George Rudy, had a jewelry shop. I still have a watch bought from him after he came to Chi- cago more than fifty years ago ; it keeps perfect time. Besides this aggregation of activities in this store, Mr. Hanna was the impresario who brought shows and operas to the city. He it was who saw that bill posters put up the pictures of the great stars of the day who played one night stands to crowded houses in Dole's ()pei-a House down the block at what was then Second and Broadway above Hoddy's gi-ocery. But gathered around the pianos in Hanna's store the young folks tried out the popular ballads of the day. And we did not lack for a popular song Avriter of our own in the person of Johnny Woods, who lived across the street from our family. I still can pla.v one of his most popular liits which was Congratulations from THE MATTDDIV DPTDMETHISTS Rex M. Adams G. J. Altrogge N. N. Berkheimer R. F. Klaas L Carter Cantwell J. L. Lampert L. R. Cantwell Marvin Pulliam 84 DAIRY BAR All of Us to All of You CONGRATULATIONS Where old friends meet, new friends are /