^£i£~ tz EIGHTEEN OTIUMWA NINETEEN -rortu - C^ialtt f - ^ l 9> <&&&£- ^ "rortu - C^laht t-^w *nt iv 0frt , w*f by James C. Taylor, Jr. in co-operation with The Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce COPYRIGHT 1948 Sincere ^Jkavik. j, N THIS CONDENSED STORY OF OTTUMWA, Iowa, it has not been possible to mention all the prominent individuals, business firms and organizations that have helped to build this city. The writer asks indulgence for his omissions, with the sincere hope that at some future date a more detailed history will remember all names identified with the community's growth and development. The pages that follow were accomplished with the assistance of many gracious friends. I am particularly indebted to Mrs. Lloyd D. Burton who gave generously of her time studying the narrative and offering suggestions which added pertinent details and increased interest. My thanks to Mr. J. Fred Dings, Mr. Lynn O. Lancey, Mr. and Mrs. H. E. Swenson, the Ottumwa Daily Courier and the Ottumwa Municipal Band for supplying splendid period photographs of Ottumwa people and scenes, and to Miss May Belle Ditch and her staff at the public library for supplying vast quantities of reference books, periodicals, newspapers, souvenir programs, photographs and drawings. Other valuable material was contributed by Mrs. G. R. Hadden. Ottumwa business men were especially helpful in providing pertinent information, and Mr. Charles W. Brockman furnished facts dealing with the city's govern- ment. Mrs. Frank P. Hofmann supplied colorful notes concerning the town's Grand Opera House. Historical facts were clarified by Mr. O. H. Seifert of Eddyville, Iowa, a well-known authority on the early history of the Middle West. Mr. Paul Wood developed early-day sketches, and Mr. Robert Mikesh and Mr. Nor- man Hill offered technical photographic assistance, especially in the field of aerial photography. Mrs. Allen M. Kough, Mrs. Frank W. Douma, Mrs. Darrell Ware, Mrs. Orpha Graham, Mrs. Benjamin Watson, Mrs. Edward C. Chamberlin, Mr. Oscar W. Stoltz, Mr. James A. Davidson, Mr. Albert M. Efner and Mr. Joe W. Miller took the time to peruse the manuscript and offer helpful suggestions. To all these friends, and to many others who through their interest and encouraging words helped to make possible this publication, I extend my sincere thanks. J. C. T. Ottumwa, Iowa August 29, 1948 CONTENTS © T T U M W A yyne ^rrundred l/jears a l^itu PAGE I Indians and the Beginning (1842-1855) 5 II City Government, the Railroads and Business, Civil War and the Big Fire (18561868) 11 III New Life, Industrial Expansion and National Fame (1869-1891) .... 17 IV Industrial Change, Entertainment, Sports and Social Customs (1892-1916) . 32 V World War I and the Golden Twenties (1917-1929) 50 VI Tough Sledding and Recovery (1930-1941) 56 VII World War II . . . The Years of Conflict (1942-1945) 61 VIII Facts about Ottumwa in the Post-War Period (1946-1948) 64 IX With Each Tomorrow, New Roads Lead to Progress 75 ^jroreword he year, 1948, is recognized as the centennial of Ottumwa. One hundred years before, the future of the city seemed certain. Building and business were progressing, the popu- lation was growing, and an atmosphere of permanence prevailed among those early pioneers whose hope and faith brought them to develop the great West. . . . However, an earlier centennial date might have served as well. Ottumwa had been occupied by settlers since 1843. Actually the year selected is relatively unimportant. It is the people of Ottumwa and their attainments during this period that are com- memorated, especially the pioneers of the 1800's, their courage and re- sourcefulness, their foresight and determination. These were the people who made Ottumwa a reality. • • • In the pages that follow certain objectives have been kept in view. The book is intended to be of interest to all Ottumwans and to the many people who we hope will want to know Ottumwa. It is intended as a help to students in reviewing the history of the city. The economic and geographical facts presented are intended to be both helpful and inviting to business firms over the country interested in the Middle West. . . . Finally, the book is offered as a salute to the achievements of the past . . . and the opportunities of the future. Chief Wapello. INDIANS and ike Be eqlnnlnq 1842-1855 l Z In 1842 the area now known as Ottumwa, Iowa, belonged to the Sac and Fox Indians. Iowa was not yet a state; the city of Des Moines was non- existent. Texas was an independent republic, and the area west of Texas extending to the Pacific be- longed to Mexico. Boundaries of the Oregon Country were a matter of dispute between the United States and Great Britain. Only thirty-nine years before, the purchase of the Louisiana Terri- tory from France had pushed the western boun- daries of the United States far beyond the Missis- sippi. Only nineteen years before, James Monroe had proclaimed his doctrine of America for the Americans. In 1842 the affairs of this nation and the people living in its western territories were in the hands of President John Tyler. Ottumwa comprised three Indian villages estab- lished in the valley of the meandering Des Moines river and upon its encircling hills. The present site of the Ottumwa high school, with its com- manding view of the valley, was the Indian camp- ing ground. On the corner of Main and College streets, Wapello, the chief, pitched his tepee. The Indian council ground extended from the inter- section of Fifth and Market streets down the hill to the present site of the First Methodist Church. Keokuk, another chief, had his village on the bank of the Des Moines river, opposite the mouth of Sugar Creek. Chief Appanoose's village lay a mile upstream on the present site of South Ottumwa. Chief Wapello, whose name was given to the county, was a powerful ruler among his people and a fast friend of the whites. He was chief of the Foxes and of the confederated tribes of Sacs and Foxes, composed of several Indian bands. "Wapello died on March 15, 1842, and at his own request was buried by the side of his friend, General Joseph M. Street, the first Indian agent in this territory. Their graves may be seen near Agency City, where the old Indian agency was located. 5 The Indians were always careful to select country where wild game, fish and fowl were plentiful, and where natural water and timber were abundant. Ottumwa met these requirements. A wide, flow- ing river, crystal clear as were all Iowa rivers be- fore the land was plowed, was alive with fish, turtles and clams. The forests, besides providing excellent timber to use for shelter and firewood, were the home of elk, deer and black bears. The fields were thick with wild fowl, geese, ducks, pelicans and swans; everywhere in evidence were wild turkeys, quail and prairie chickens. Fertile soil was easily worked by the squaw with her primitive imple- ments. Ottumwanoc, as the Indians called it, was truly an ideal place in which to hunt, fish, feast and rest. But feasting and resting were about over for the Indians, for they had come to depend too much upon the white man's goods, especially equipment for summer and winter hunts, blankets, traps, guns and ammunition. It was easy to do business on a credit basis, a practice encouraged by the traders who knew the Indian's wealth in furs, government annuities and, most important, land. By 1842, as in the past, the Indians were on the traders' books for thousands of dollars. Their obvious expedient was the cession of more land to the government and on October 11, 1842, they entered into a treaty, ratified in March, 1843, whereby they "ceded to the United States all lands west of the Mississippi to which they had any claim or title." THE EARLY SETTLERS Anxious families congregated along the boundary and pre- pared to rush into the new territory at the designated time. As the Indians set about the task of gathering their belongings and taking down their tepees, the white settlers began moving toward Ottumwa. Long before the dawn of May first, 1843, the date on which the land became available for occupancy, hundreds of anxious families congregated along the boundary and prepared to rush into the new territory at the designated time. On the night of April 30, 1843, the boundaries were illumined with great campfires, and as the midnight houi arrived the groves and hills rang with shouts and the sharp report of firearms. 6 H. B. HENDERSHOTT. Prominent Ottumtca judge who helped establish boun- dary line between Iowa and Missouri. R. H. WARDEN. Founder of the Courier, Ottumwa's first newspaper, in 1848. H. B. Hendershott, prominent Ottumwa judge of die last century, has left an interesting account of the way in which the settlers staked their claims. "They were marked out," he said, "by setting stakes in the prairie and blazing trees in the tim- ber. A claim embraced from eighty to three hun- dred and twenty acres, but as might be expected the work of locating and de- fining them, much of it be- ing done at night, was very inaccurate. Many of the boundaries were crooked and encroached the one upon the other. This led to disturbances called claim difficulties which required a peaceable means of adjust- ment. To meet this need the inhabitants organized claim committees. A bona fide claim was as sacredly protected as were homes." An early settler. The early settlers were a mixture of people, who came from New England through Pennsylvania and Ohio, and from the piedmont of North Caro- lina and Virginia through Kentucky and Southern Illinois. Some were moderately rich, others poor, some educated, others illiterate, but with all there was the spirit of adventure, keen determination to better themselves as individ- uals and to forge ahead to- gether as a community. The Rev. B. A. Spaulding, first pastor of the Congregational Church and Ottumwa's first minister, said of the people attending his services, "The congregation assembled was not a company of wild hunt- ers and ruffians with their rifles in their hands, or care- lessly thrown against a tree, but a collection of families from the older states, and 1 The town's first schoolhouse was built in 1850. even the Atlantic shore, whose personal appearance and respectful conduct would not suffer from a comparison with many congregations that I have seen within forty miles of Boston." The original name for the area was Ottumwa, but there was a time in 1844 when the village was called Louisville at the suggestion of the locating commissioners. A sharp fight ensued, and the Ap- panoose Rapids Company, composed of pioneers who laid out the town, was largely responsible for the retention of the distinctive Indian name, Ottumwa, which symbolically, has two meanings: "Place of Swift Water" and "Place of Perseverance or Self-Will." Ten days after the settlers began to mark out claims, the first house was completed. In 1843 tne Post Office was established. In May, 1844, Ottumwa was named the county seat. The first mill was built in 1845. Church life was outstanding in this year, also, with the Methodist Episcopal Church form- ing the first church organization. The next year the first court house was constructed, not long be- fore General Winfield Scott entered Mexico City ending the war with Mexico. In 1848, Ottumwa had a newspaper, the Des Moines Courier, a name which nine years later was changed to the Ottumwa Courier. By 1848 the enterprise of the people and the natural advantages of the town clearly assured a bright future for Ottumwa. A year after the California Gold Rush of 1849, the community saw its first school house, and in 1851, the town was incorporated, with George Gillaspy elected the first president of a board of trustees. Ottumwa was growing. By 1855, there were over 1,000 inhabitants. It was a thriving village with busy streets and an active, wide-awake population. There were eight dry goods stores, two drug stores, a clothing and grocery store, a stove store, tin shop, harness shop, two churches and two hotels; also there was a tannery, saw and grist mill, a carding machine to prepare native wool for clothing, a chair shop, gunsmith shop, three blacksmith shops, four shoe shops, three tailor shops, a bakery and confectionery, a printing of- fice, a newspaper, a land office and a daguer- reotype gallery. 8 Steamboats on the Des Moines river played a prominent role in Ottumwa's beginning. The river, deep and crystal clear, made water travel a common mode of transportation, especially in the spring as the snow melted. The first steamboat, the "Agatha" appeared in 1843. Captain J. M. Lafferty used her to remove troops and supplies from Fort Sanford, later known as Garrison Rock. Other well-known steamboats on the river were "The Pavilion," "Caleb Cope," the "Des Moines Belle," "Des Moines City," and the "Ad Hine." The largest boat ever to appear here was "The Flora Temple," a three-decker, side-wheeler, which made round trips between St. Louis and Des Moines. Local river crossings were accomplished by ferry. The first ferry license was granted by the board of commissioners in 1844 to J- P- Eddy, for whom the town of Eddyville was named. Shortly after, ferries began operating in Ottumwa near the pres- ent location of the Market street bridge; one of the tying posts was the big cottonwood tree which after a hundred years is still standing at the south end of the bridge. Of the pioneer women, we find a description by the Rev. J. M. McElroy, the first pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. It is typical of the courage and resourcefulness exhibited by the women of these times. "They were fine physical specimens," he said, "above medium height, strongly and stoutly built with fair complexion and blue or grey eyes. The woman was the homemaker and ruler, she CHARLES F. BLAKE. Born in Mindcn, Prussia, he teas among the earliest pioneers to settle in Ottumwa. JOHN M. HEDRICK. A Civil War hero who advanced from Lieutenant to Gen- eral . . . one of the town's most public-spirited citizens. The largest steamboat to appear on the Des Moines river was The Flora Temple. could plant and plow, spin and weave, brew and bake, make and mend. Her serious problem was food. She found scarcely a single article with which she was familiar, and had to in- vent an entirely new system of cookery. Wild fruits, wild game and fish were served. Milk with mush was often served for supper, while next morning fried mush and honey was the breakfast meal. Tea was made from the root of sassafras. For sugar she dis- covered the sugar maple tree which supplied the family needs. The woman was the family doctor and nurse, all in one. She learned from the Indians the they were used REV. J. M. McELROY. An early educator and the first pas- tor of the First Presbyterian Church. value of herbs as medicine and by the family as she directed." The pioneers of Ottumwa were people of purpose and achievement. Because they recognized the value of the church in the fulfilment of their efforts, the Rev. Mr. Spaulding was moved to say, "I have had the exceeding gratification to see our little house of worship almost uni- formly filled by an attentive audience. Never have I preached to as silent and sol- emn conoreoations as within the last weeks. It has seemed as though we were not far from the Kingdom of God." 1 CITY GOVERNMENT ^Jhe l^aiiroadi and (/Si uiineSd i^iuii 1/1/ c ar an a ^Jhe 03 la ^jti ire 1 8 5 6 - 1 8 6 « In 1857 the United States Supreme Court handed down its decision on the famed Dred Scott case presaging the imminence of civil conflict. In the same year Ottumwa's governing body ceased to be a board of trustees and became a council. The State of Iowa, admitted to the Union in 1846, granted the city a special charter, and Duane F. Gaylord was elected the first mayor. Upon accept- ing office, Mayor Gaylord delivered a stirring in- augural address before the townspeople and the neighboring settlers, many of whom came miles on horseback, in wagons and on foot to gather at the courthouse and witness the installation of officers. Because of its interest and descriptive value, part of the address is reproduced here. "In accepting the office I cannot refrain from al- luding to the fact that since my residence in this place, it has grown up from a mere hamlet of only fourteen buildings to its present size and prosper- ous condition. We now behold a flourishing city The Burlington and Missouri River Railroad Company brought the first steam train to Ottumtca, Sept. 1, 1859. with some 1,500 inhabitants, well defined with passable streets, and ornamented with buildings which would do credit to older and larger places. This rapid increase and these improvements are owing not only to the peculiar local advantages we enjoy, but in a high degree to the industry, enter- prise and morality of our citizens. Each of us proudly may reflect upon the agency we have had in effecting this great and interesting change. Ot- tumwa, we all know, has been settled and built up in the main by citizen laborers, professional men, merchants and mechanics, whose capital was econ- omy, industry, intelligence and perseverance; and we may now look around us and say these are the fruits of our honest industry, unflagging persever- ance and persistent economy. These elements of individual and social prosperity have converted a wilderness into a city. ... In other countries and other times, Ottumwa would have been the result of the labor and accumulations of successive gen- erations. But the men who wrought this chanq-e are sitting within the sound of my voice and at the council board of our city." The peculiar local advantages enumerated in the mayor's address were largely geographical. The river was a means of transportation and a potential source of power. The surrounding territory was a source of untapped agricultural wealth. It was inevitable that railroads and highways should be constructed to unite agriculture with industry in a creative producer-consumer relationship which made Ottumwa at once a country town and a seat of industry. THE RAILROADS (congress appropriated, in 1846, 1,100,000 acres of land for slackwater navigation of the Des Moines river. However, as the railroad interests became greater and people responded to the idea of trans- portation by rail, much of this land came to be used for the construction of railroad lines. There was considerable interest locally in rail- road transportation, and in 1851 significant devel- opments took place. Ottumwa played a major role in the county's pledge of $100,000 in bonds, and private citizens were committed to subscriptions of over $40,000 in stock of the Burlington and Mis- souri River Railroad Co. The line which later became known as the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy brought the first steam train to Ottumwa, September 1, 1859. The citizens celebrated the great event jubilantly. Two years later the Keokuk, Ft. Des Moines and Minnesota Railroad, later the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific, was routed through the city. Between 1867 and 1870 the St. Louis and Cedar Rapids Railway, which became part of the Wabash Rail- road in 1889, constructed a railroad from Iowa's southern boundary to Bloomfield and on to Ot- tumwa. East and west and north and south, Ot- tumwa was on a direct route. Its goods and agri- cultural produce were linked with the country's rich industrial markets. II I!) HE Tfercxi h Rail-road saottwcetsotts to all points IOWA ILLINOIS, MINNESOTA. WISCONSIN, awl N0KTHWK8TE8N HiSSOllJU ^kJNT3D ITS ISTTJ-lVtlijriOTJgl OONNECTIONa HI I * II WITH TEE Burlington k Missouri River RR. Uuriington, Ml. Pleasant, Pairtield. Alliiii, Chariton, Osceola. Afton, Cromwell. Cornum^. Red Oak J miction QnineyJ and all intermediate points nil thai road. and with the mi tfc FOR Keokuk, Farmington, Bonaparte, Keosauqua, Independent, Eddyville, Oskaloosa, Pella, KnoxviJIe, Monroe, Ami at I>f>. MniM- wjiero connc-timis are mad,, with the Chicago & Hock Island RiL niiiiiim; fci ami West, the entire length of the State, be- tween the Mississippi »V Missouri Rivers: also -with tliooxtension of the D. Y. Railroad to its connection with the North-western and Union Pacific Railroads. giving an entire chain of Railroad connections throughout the State, anil with the States horderiritc. 4 iw«ii dts and -a\e tine' and many miles of unnecessary travel. JUoolc at a Map and convince yourself that this IS THE ROUTE I Til .11.1. Til K .lll<> I /■: JfA, !/ fit) POI.VTS. to Ottumwa, sold at all the principal ortioesonthe North Missouri and Hanibal & St.. Joe Railroad-. V. (i. ItALLlNUALL. (Jen Agent, Ollilliiwa Coiiner PriBl B. <& O. S. I* -, 12 BUSINESS ACTIVITY -Lhree wholesale firms which through the years have been prominent business houses, started oper- ations in Ottumwa during the period from 1855 to 1865. They were the Harper 8c Mclntire Co., J. W. Edgerly & Co. and the Haw Hardware Company. Harper & Mclntire evolved out of the merger of two older hardware firms dating back to 1856. There were various changes in the management and name of the company, and it was not until 1891 that the name, Harper & Mclntire, was adopted. J. W. Edgerly & Co., drug wholesalers, traces its origin to the year 1858. Its present name has been retained since 1888. Dr. J. L. Taylor, pioneer of the wholesale drug business in Ottumwa, came here in 1851 to practice medicine. He continued his practice for several years and then, in 1858, opened a wholesale drug company which he operated until his death in 1881. The business was taken over by Blake, Bruce & Co., which subsequently sold its George Hate, founder of the Haw Hardtcare Co., delivered his orders on horseback. Ottumwa Iron Works. interests in 1888 to the organization of J. W. Ed- gerly k Co. A third wholesale company started business oper- ations in 1864. The Haw Hardware Company is in- debted to George Haw, a young soldier mustered out of the Union army, for its founding. To build up his business the youth spent much time as a traveling man on horseback, regularly visiting the territory which surrounded Ottumwa, and return- ing every ten days to put up his orders for delivery. In 1868 the property was destroyed by fire, but the firm was re-established under the name of George Haw and Company with Chris Haw and B. F. Henry associates. Not long after the first settlers came to Ottumwa, several private banks were started; one of the first was operated by W. B. Bonnifield. Congress passed the National Banking Act in February, 1863, and the following October the First National Bank of Ottumwa became the fifth bank west of the Missis- sippi to secure a charter under the new act. James Hawley was president, George Haw, vice president, J. G. HUTCHISON. Attorney and industrialist. WILLIAM DAGGETT. Banker and businessman. DR. J. C. HINSEY. DR. S. C. McCULLOUGH. Two of the first physicians to come to Ottumwa. 13 Peter G. Ballingall erected the Ballingall House in 1864 on the corner of Main and Green streets. One of the best known hotels in the west, it be- came identified with the early growth of the community, and later served as headquarters for the most elegant social affairs of the day. The Rev. John Kreckel was ordained for the Priesthood in 1853 at Jesuit College Cincinnati, Ohio, and subsequently, was appointed to a charge in Ottumwa. His arrival here in February, 1854, was followed by intense work in the organization of church societies, and in the development of the Church of the Visitation, erected m 1861. 14 and W. B. Bonnifield, cashier. Other banks were soon formed including the Iowa National Bank in 1870, the Ottumwa National Bank in 1882, the Ottumwa Savings Bank in 1887 and the City Sav- ings Bank in 1888. Ten years later the Union Trust k Savings Bank was started followed in 1900 by the Wapello County Savings Bank, the South Ottumwa Savings Bank in 1903 and the Citizens Savings Bank in 1905. Banking records, dating back to these early days, afford an interesting study of the town's growth. The Ottumwa Iron Works was established in 1867. It was originally known as the Johnston Ruffler Company, and engaged in the manufacture of sewing machine attachments patented by Allen Johnston. As many as 500 women were employed. During this period of growth, J. T. Hackworth and A. G. Harrow, local bankers, were associated with the business. Later the company engaged in the manufacture of mine hoists and other products used in mining. The town's oldest clothing store, J. B. Sax Co., was founded by J. B. Sax shortly after the Civil War. A tireless worker, Mr. Sax became identified with many civic enterprises which brought recog- nition both to the community and to himself. THE CIVIL WAR X romptly after the fall of Fort Sumter signaliz- ing the start of the Civil War, and in response to President Lincoln's call for troops, the men of Wapello County gathered at the courthouse. On motion by J. M. Hedrick the group organized as a formal body, and C. W. Kittredge was named chairman. S. W. Summers moved the adoption of the following resolution: "Resolved that we are in favor of sustaining the government." Applause was deafening. In turn, leading citizens spoke of the need for defending the government in its hour of peril. Subsequently, other resolutions recom- mended that all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 45 organize in companies and stand by for orders. With maximum speed many units were formed, the first under Captain C. C. Cloutman, who later became the first officer from this vicinity to fall in battle. Men of this town, along with those from other Iowa communities, distinguished them- selves as fighting soldiers; it was significant that more than 75,000 Iowans joined the Union Army. Evening Courier. *»c»i» e r«»c«.tii» • B. J. BOULTON, £*«« ««> TOSFSCTIOKEI. „, R.a«I M 22 T " MWA ' "> w *■ ! _!' *'''""" '£^"'^rS. tt ,!Lri!^ jS ,SSWI * 'WINSTON, t -~T:-j, — L™ DENTISTS. HAT.. C.Pt BOOT.'.^oeT! «——».» ' , ~« •- ^'UV.-'SJ- . ^"^ n iv£r.:r *■■••■ ' 0N AN ° °°««t, c j^^ 8 - **««*> ****r novae tie rat > »B»itHJ -•— ,'.V. ". ••tt.SSrS^J^JJiBa, fc~..,"i^T;'/ 1 ,"' """—■«••.«■. 1 FMt, «» '«> t»«,„ lc issssr' **««*■«*« '^a^, f-~- MERCHANDISE. EsF^^S Uatheh J- c. HiNser, m 1 ;~~~- — fM own * J. wou»S ■XE/ia - w-o« , » „ '•»•>. "• -;.., '■» Xumiu iswS^Si^; «•»=«„..»!„, I n. wool. MERCHANT TAILOR ' ^'-- ^ X •" iir -~^H : £ S T «■"*«'- to iiJtTZ ' T/ie /rout page 0/ (fie /irst daily Courier, April 5, 1865. During the war, the American flag was raised at places of business and private residences through- out the city. Ottumwa became a hub of activity. Its railroad facilities prompted its use as an em- barkation point for hundreds of troops. Ottumwa's profound interest in the progress of the war created a demand for a moie detailed and up-to-date presentation of the news. As an answer to this demand the weekly Courier became a daily newspaper. Publisher J. W. Norris, a writer and lawyer who had come to Ottumwa from New Hampshire, made this important change in the life of the Courier, April 5, 1865. 15 The heart of Main street was destroyed by fire October 30, 1868. THE BIG FIRE In the quiet of midnight, October 30, 1868, a tiny finger of flame twinkled in the interior of Charles Betts' cap and hat store on the south corner of Court and Main streets. While the city slept, the fingers multiplied. Fanned by a strong night wind they reached out to the adjoining building and soon the entire block of wood- frame structures on both sides of Main street was lashed by hot, flaming streaks of fire. The alarmed citizenry stood by panic-stricken, for there was nothing they could do. They watched helplessly until the wind subsided hours later. In the dawn twenty-two buildings, the property of more than thirty business men, lay in ashes. The estimated loss, enormous for the time, was $400,000. Men who suffered severe damage to property in- cluded J. A. Schworn, F. W. Hawley, J. Hawley, W. C. Moss, Jr., T. Neville, C. C. Peters, D. M. Harmon, H. C. Grube, Adam Kiser, H. Nuna- maker and J. G. Meek. Others were J. Leighton, George Branderburg, F. W. Smith, Charles Betts, W. D. Earl, Michael Maguire, J. Loomis, Dr. C. C. Warden, Dr. J. L. Taylor, L. Danbaum, J. W. Huggin, E. Washburn, P. C. Daum, James Haw- ley, Sr., George Godfrey and M. Kranmer. Henry & Haw, J. Prugh & Co., Cole & Porter, Clark & Tuttle, Shreve & Yates and T. Devin & Son were among the business properties destroyed. The terrible experience of this night showed the drastic need for fire protection, and records indi- cate that a city fire department was formally estab- lished less than two months later. 16 %>v^ St ?r^ : • *» m ■ i ■> in D'1"T Ui)l '/YA Ottumtva's famed Coal Palace was visited by such notables as Presidents Benjamin Harrison and William McKinley. NEW LIFE ^rnduitriai Ox T andion an d r lational ^jr> a me 1869-1891 J-he task of rebuilding Ottumwa after the fire was tremendous. People of less stature might well have moved on, escaping the challenge that con- fronted them. But the townspeople stuck together, dug their way out of the ruins, and started a glori- ous new age that in many respects is the most color- ful in the history of Ottumwa. There was a rebirth of Main street. Modern buildings went up in a few months. More schools and churches were erected. South Ottumwa, which until 1870 had been a farming area with only a few store buildings along the road which later was named Church street, now began expanding. New industries came, injecting fresh vigor and enthusi- asm into the pattern of business and social life. To be sure, there was a new look about the town. The ambition of the people coupled with the hearty spirit and spontaneity of their efforts brought forth an age which was to see civic pride at its peak, rich and full and glowing. In 1875, the population stood at 7,500. Within a decade that figure had almost doubled. 17 Main Street. NEW PUBLIC SERVICES An the year 1870, the work of introducing gas into the city was started by A. E. Swift 8c Co. An ordinance granted the company exclusive privi- leges for several years. Subsequently the franchise was sold to the Ottumwa Gas Light Co. The Ottumwa Library Association was incorpo- rated in 1872. The first board of directors was elected March 26, of that year, and consisted of W. B. Bonnifield, Charles Blake, J. C. Osgood, Eugene S. Sheffield, O. M. Ladd, Rev. H. Bross, W. E. Chambers and Peter Ballingall. Samuel Mahon was the first president. In his will, Peter Ballingall provided $6,000 for a library building. In 1900, Andrew Carnegie added $50,000 for the project. On September 1, 1901, the cornerstone was laid, and a year later the new building was dedicated. The mayor, Mr. T. J. Phillips, ap- pointed a library board of trustees, whose first president was J. T. Hackworth, a man of vision devoted to the work of the institution. Following Mr. Hackworth's death, the library became the principal beneficiary of his estate, valued at a half million dollars. The first definite action for a water power com- pany was taken in February, 1875, when a town meeting was held at the city hall. The formation of a corporation was announced, to begin opera- tions March 1, 1875. The company was called the Ottumwa Water Power Co., and W. B. Bonnifield was elected president. In 1877, the city council passed an ordinance granting exclusive privileges to S. L. Wiley $c Co. for the operation of the Ottumwa Water Works. Under this company, works capable of supplying water to the entire community, were erected. This marked a great im- provement, not merely as a matter of convenience, but as an effective protection against heavy losses caused by fire. The first telephone exchange was built by the Western Union Telegraph Company in May, 1879. Telephones were first installed at the Ottumwa Water Works for use in case of an emergency. George H. Wheelock was the first manager of the company and the operators were Western Union Ottumwa (Bird's-eye View). Union Depot. ♦ §plff^'-^ Sh'"N ■'J'' ' ,^0j; %gL ^jjgaw-^-^ilitt SSyefes^i*! ■ WrF^ ■ W"2> mm •'^•••-. \ ^A ^S^ter "J> ' -M^. **, i 7 TH 18 messenger boys. The exchange was sold to the Western Telegraph Company in 1880. In 1881, another organization, the Central Union Tele- phone Company, took over. In later years, still other organizations operated the exchange. It was not until 1921 that the Northwestern Bell Tele- phone Company assumed control. In 1881, Ottumwans were shocked by the news of President Garfield's assassination. The local preoccupation, however, remained the novel sight of the city's first horse-drawn street cars. These were placed in operation by J. M. Hedrick; six years later R. T. Shea added lines running from north to south Ottumwa. The light, small cars fre- quently jumped the track, and the passengers had to return them to the rails before runs could be resumed. At night they were illumined by kero- sene lamps and in winter a straw-strewn floor pro- tected the passengers' feet from the cold. Electric cars were put in operation on Thanksgiving Day, 1889, giving Ottumwa the distinction of being one of the first cities in the United States to have an electric railway. The first people to have electric lights were the Pallister brothers, who conducted a confectionery store on East Main street. In 1882, they purchased a small plant to illuminate the store interior. In order to promote commercial lighting a company was organized in 1884 consisting of C. O. Taylor, C. T. McCarroll, W. H. Stevens, D. A. Emery, R. T. Shea, Gust Applegreen, J. B. Sax and others. Twenty arc lamps supplied service to store build- ings and twenty others lighted streets in the busi- ness district. Concern for the welfare of the community's young people led to a meeting on July 18, 1887, at the home of Mr. T. D. Foster, at which time the advisability of organizing a local Young Men's Christian Association was discussed. The idea was adopted, articles of incorporation were filed, di- rectors were elected, and on August 26, 1887, the following officers were named: T. D. Foster, presi- dent, T. J. Hall, vice president, S. L. Vest, record- ing secretary, Dr. N. McKecknie, treasurer. The board of directors included E. E. Fischer, F. M. Faucett, B. F. Berry, J. C. Ranseen, A. G. Wallace, Isaac Johnson, W. E. Chambers, J. A. Phillips, Chris Haw, A. D. Moss, and Berthold Herrman. Irving Watson was employed as the first general secretary. Subsequently, plans for a building were completed and a new structure at Second and Washington streets, costing $30,000, was dedicated in 1891. PI 'III l< SCHOOLS Although schools had been in existence since 1846, they were mostly private schools which re- quired tuition. There was an urgent need for free public schooling. In 1863 the school board, sup- ported by electors of the city, voted the construc- tion of an adequate public school in the block between Second and Fourth streets, a plot of ground which became known as College Square and which had been set aside for educational pur- poses in the will of John Devin. A three-story building, completed in 1865 at a cost of §13,000, housed the first eight grades and the high school. The latter graduated its first class in 1869, a class of four: Mary Guyselman, Mabel Guyselman, Mary Truitt and Nellie Field. The need for schools grew with the growth of the town and in 1870 the Douglas school was com- pleted, followed by the Lincoln six years later. The College Square building was renamed the Adams school. The first superintendent of public schools was Albion W. Stuart, who came to this city in 1876. A keen young man of thirty-seven, Mr. Stuart was a true scholar and an experienced ad- ministrator who previously had served at schools in East Des Moines and Fort Dodge, Iowa. During his remarkable superintendency of thirty-seven years, eleven new schools were constructed and many innovations made which broadened the plan of study and improved staff organization. But Mr. Stuart proved himself more than a material builder. He was a builder of men and women. That he held a high place in the community was demonstrated after his death when more than 5,000 persons paid their respects as he lay in state in the high school assembly room. y. M. C. A. 19 PRIVATE ENTERPRISE IVIany new industries which flourish today de- veloped during this period of industrial expansion. A. L. Schafer founded The Schafer Ice and Fuel Co. in 1869. In the early days, the ice was taken from the river, cut, and stored in sawdust. During the summer it was delivered by horse and wagon. The Lowenberg Bakery was founded by Anton and Chris Lowenberg in 1875. Starting as a small retail establishment, the firm gradually developed into a sizable bakery, distributing its products to a number of points in southern Iowa and north- ern Missouri. To J. G. Hutchison, over the years one of Ot- tumwa's distinguished citizens, goes much of the credit for bringing the meatpacking firm of John Morrell & Co. to this city in 1877. On a voyage to England, he met Mr. T. D. Foster. The latter, representing the English firm of John Morrell & Co., was interested in locating a plant in this sec- tion of the United States. Hutchison emphasized the city's advantages. The Englishman was im- pressed, and subsequently leased a small building here in which operations were begun. Later sev- eral buildings were constructed and 150 men were regularly employed at the new plant. The firm of Walter T. Hall & Co. began opera- tions in January, 1880. At first the company en- gaged in the manufacture of baking powder and extracts, but a candy department added later grew with such speed that soon the business devoted itself entirely to the manufacture and jobbing of confections. Julius Fecht, a grower and importer of Havana tobacco, opened a cigar manufacturing business in Ottumwa in 1884. Known as the Julius Fecht Cigar Co., it became identified during the nineties as the largest business of its kind in Iowa. Mr. Fecht figured in some of the town's most cherished anecdotes. It was he who said, "I lose money on each individual cigar but I make it up on the volume." Mr. Fecht was noted, also, for his bet- ting. One evening at the local Elk's Club a friend said, "Julius, I'll bet you ten dollars there are four doors in this room." Only three doors were visible. Mr. Fecht accepted the bet, whereupon his friend began pointing, "There's a door," he said, "and over there's a door, here's a door and in the corner is a cuspidor." Mr. Fecht thought the gag quite funny and promptly paid up. A little later as an- other brother entered the room, Julius called to him, "John, I'll bet you ten dollars there are four doors in here." The bet taken, Julius proceeded, T. D. Foster. John Morrell & Co. 20 Walter T. Hall & Co. Ottumtca Buggy Co. Crips and Bros. Livery. "Here's a door, there's a door, there's another door, and in the corner is the spittoon." Julius lost an- other ten. Martin Hardsocg, a native of Germany and founder of the Hardsocg Manufacturing Company, came to Ottumwa from Avery, Iowa, in 1885. In- fluenced by prominent business men of this city, who loaned him $3,000 without security, Hardsocg moved his family and business to a small building along the river, near the present corner of Vine and Hayne streets. Coal miners' hand tools and mine caps were the principal items manufactured. A fire destroyed the plant in 1891, and operations were moved to a new building on Samantha street, a street named in honor of Samantha Shaffer, the first white woman in Ottumwa. Additional work garments were manufactured at this time, along with miners' oil lamps. The Ottumwa Brick & Tile Co., distinguished as the only plant in the midwest which produces natural red and buff building material, was founded in 1891 by W. H. Stevens, C. O. Taylor, J. C. Jor- don, J. W. Jordon, Samuel Mahon and the Smith brothers from North English, Iowa. Initially, the company was known as the Ottumwa Brick & Con- struction Co., and its principal product was paving brick. In 1896, D. F. Morey became active in the organization and took over the controlling interest. Drain tile and building material were produced, and a plant was built for the manufac- ture of pottery. In 1911 the firm name was changed to Morey Clay Products Co. During this period of expansion the railroads became increasingly important to the industries of Ottumwa. The Keokuk and Des Moines Branch of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad was operating regularly, along with the Wabash, and the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy. In 1884 the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway Co. built a line from Cedar Rapids to Ottumwa, through Rutledge. Three years later the Milwaukee was operating between Ottumwa and Kansas City. Ottumwa Steam Laundry. Fred Swenson, Merchant Tailor. Phillips Coal Co. 21 The Lilburn Residence. Residence of R. H. Moore. ■ -. OTTUMWA HOMES The homes built during the late 1800's were massive residences which conformed to popular architecture of the period. They told their own story of the community's character. Residence of Dr. Joseph Lockwood. Residence of J. T. Hacktvorth. The First Brick House Built in Ottumwa. Residence of A. L. Graves. n Residence of J. E. Longford. 1 ( '^| ^jT *- -*= * Mi -. 1 ' •• * #■■<:» .:..-■■■- fflr" Residence of W. B. Bonnifield. Residence of W . T. Harper. Parsonage of the Congregational Church. Residence of W. C. Wyman. Business and Tenement Property of J. R. Picltler. 23 SCHOOLS, CHURCHES AND PUBLIC BUILDINGS Although Ottumwa schools and churches had been a basic part of com- munity life since the city's beginning, it is significant that ten new churches were constructed in this period of growth and expansion. Six new schools were added, the Douglas was first in 1870, followed by the Lincoln, Garfield, Adams, Irving and Hedrick. Swedish Ev. Lutheran Church. St. Joseph's Convent and Hospital. 24 Lincoln School. Garfield School. Methodist Church. Government Bldg. Congregational Church. South Side School Bldg. Baptist Church. 25 Ottumtva Mineral Springs Infirmary. The La Force House. 26 AROUND THE TOWN Three Ottumwa newspapers, the Courier, the Democrat and the Saturday Press kept local resi- dents well informed of current events. Shown on this and the following page is a collection of various subjects treated in the newspapers. " -°" Lewi ■«■ CO is as an " mn '»ee of fed 1- V^ j appoi »tea'wZ every t,,a * toe / 0,1 saJo. To *n* ^^ nominate mw the a» allfica ' bleP o S mons,ar-' ve tH>a tC otg ^ *«" rCSP ^ons let ^ eA *e, * ^ 0£ ^ lA*„ ^ e *d these qtialiflc» cftBt .t^ t^^L^lovtauOvdv ^u,, ; 0, ;.^o en " e !. niast of, * i,J bo an . d,Sl " e P'«abio , '* fil < 8 '-^aJ>/,„.., an ^cJi-cun, 7?.,, i:i aij(? ended. "w,., , ( !>.!,;,., , -meters -"e^s , thc mnaft '•''•cad., i 1o I,.,// -•- ec " ;° a ^ be en S? *' "<*■ * ■' '"-Mr (r...-.. Rearing * UD a TO alo.ng *\ fov > vh c *, vi .^- '«. v «f\9- laws divide ana iw rc ^ ^^. -^ae ■$. #* tf en Vour little f^ouswotnej. \^^ f ; aVie '"'"Ha 7 W. icrn- &h Youv little f^ S cr a ;ous^omee. enedastom^^ dm -ing^ ^ > ,ea . v ' civ iniured ^ * ^ a bead ^as seriously wj utt ie hoy a » C) her, and tl a • • ho0 f of a loose t ^ i bad iy cuthyt» ot faU to see^w^ , n _ i^W M f«ytog^°VftlSd-theB Tlie Hon. Will Cnraback, rem i Stea Jo°totheWomaTas ^ evre petitic be ^ lcc(lll . cs at lhc Congregational ' publican party, .an* tbat youj ■ o< Chiu . ch in (]iis ci(y> Qn T „ c8(lay cvc . Ibeg to »5 t JfebUdren arc aaui nhlg . ; 2 7th inst. lie is one of the fin- [ninehuncli ^ ^ ^ orators in (lie land. Tliis lecture I p0 r5o you not §» n MJ B i during of ]lisis regarded a.s one of his finest ivour domestic napp c ^cdtothts eff(>rtg< Th;U h(j wi „ de ,. ght eyei . y \ coming year, to h ^ IaN y >V°' j mnn wnmnn anf ] fi h;id who shall hear 1 quest' first <%. J ;:*^^:, o :""'"«i ;;,"■ ton,,* ' l:i "yr„.i 11 , us to ■A./ , v b. M-i» sUO "" e. uu \av <>n ' "" L ^TlouncV^ouscI "crate I r , -'■'/, v. .II. Tiffany „»> W v ^v ^.v. sul .„ louse to deliver his famous people who < ^ ^ Worth,"! gregatingjf^ado nencingl having in t- / Dr. O. II. Tiffany will be at th« Ppera House to deliver his famous lecture on "Work and Its Worth,"! Tuesday next. Lecture commencing! at 8}{ p. m. President Grant says] l C( . Dr. Tiffany stands at the forefront of to America's clergymen. *!,) ,'■"': 7 "'*o L-,, 1 "^ of a ro OTrn /ihake8perean reader of JS T . Y. ''•"' i'o ;... r T ''" ///at ^ , n &s. rp, fill give one evening of'seiect ' °f Wi«:.. ''&' s '<->ch n i .*>' ' l boi'h nn .i Ifous and Dramatic Reading at ri»lnOW £1 tt A tn i r Ja y-hir ( U , crti nlcs y • '°devn/ 7 '" fo />/,; /,-,":' '"^o hiij l " ,e of a r« ^ lihakesperean reader of JS T . Y. r .'-' c ' ( '' i'o j.. ,T ''" Hint ■ 1( * s - Ti '/'* l ° ive one evenin g of'seiect r."" 1 "fl-hcir''^ Su vh a h'^'^'^ood l coas and ^'a* 11 * 150 Reading at .,- lf '"''"of ,. a/ * M'obai. "^cd 28 29 THE COAL PALACE Oivic pride, commercial advantages and men of unusual stature made Ottumwa the ideal setting for the consummation of a dream. The dream was Peter G. Ballingall's; it arose out of his percep- tion that the city's industrial growth was largely attributable to the accessible coal deposits of this region. A man of vision and force, Ballingall in- terested a number of friends in his project of con- structing a great palace of coal. The group con- ducted public meetings to raise funds, and labored over every detail that would assure the perfection of this unique building. $30,000 was subscribed, in amounts ranging from five dollars to one thou- sand dollars, and on September 15, 1890, as anxious citizens watched, work on the fabulous structure reached its dramatic close. An enormous edifice reared before them, a veritable skyscraper tower- ing two hundred feet into the air. Located to the northwest of the present site of the Union Depot, its facade extended 230 feet along Main street; it reached to a depth of 130 feet to the south. Ad- joining the palace to the east, and extending to Washington street, lay a beautiful sunken garden in which a maze of autumn colors lent their vivid- Governor Boies. ness to the artistry of the scene. The architectural style was a combination of Gothic and Byzantine. Veneered with coal in handsome patterns, with battlements and turrets of jet, it suggested the great 30 castles built in the days of feudalism. The interior, elegantly decorated at a cost of $10,000, housed exhibits of Ottumwa's industry. In addition, the massive main hall and balconies provided the building with an auditorium capable of seating 6,000 people, the number actually present to hear Governor Boies' opening day address and watch Peter Ballingall turn the switch which powered the huge machinery of the industrial displays. As festivities opened, a large flag was hoisted on the tower, bells rang, whistles shrieked, and the great throng of men, women and children cheered them- selves hoarse. The following days were marked by the presence of Governor Crittendon of Mis- souri, prominent railway officials, and the Iowa State Band. There were celebrations by various Iowa counties and cities, with a day named in recognition of each, such as Monroe County Day, and Cedar Rapids Day, etc. A VISIT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES JL he nineteenth day brought Benjamin Harrison, President of the United States, to Ottumwa. Over 65,000 people, five times the city's population, jammed the palace and the town for the occasion. Souvenir Coin. The Courier presented President Harrison with an edition printed on silk, and the President leplied with a speech in which he said that the edition would serve as "a memento of the most pleasant experience of his journey." The exposition was such an overwhelming suc- cess that it was repeated in 1891 with undiminished popularity. In the second year, William McKinley visited it, along with many other notables. The Coal Palace was acclaimed throughout the nation. When it had to be razed there were heavy hearts. It had been a triumph for people in all walks of life who had worked together for the community's welfare. It had brought joy to countless thousands. It had given color and distinction to a growing city, and it had symbolized the progressive spirit of the West. The Coal Palace marked the peak of a glorious age. President Harrison. M &f* \m -whofls ?%L /,.,. Complimentary Ticket. 31 Grand Opera House. INDUSTRIAL CHANGE C^ntertainmeni t. S^ports and Social K^udL T om5 1892-1916 J- he Coal Palace had been a climax to a lusty age for Ottumwans. New industry flourished, strong and ambitious men speculated freely in un- tried enterprise, optimism boomed, families lived gaily, all the world seemed to glitter. With the start of the new century, the gaiety of social life continued. The Grand Opera House was the most prominent new dispenser of culture, its great stage bringing to the city a number of distinguished figures. Ottumwa's Wapello Chief Band, and later the 54th Regiment Band were among the best in the state. Sports were immensely popular. Perhaps the keenest interest was in horse- racing, for thousands of county residents gathered at the south side and later the west-end race tracks to watch the nation's finest horses. Bicycling, boat- ing and rowing brought many thrills, and baseball, always a big hit, reached its greatest popularity. But other events had a disconcerting effect. In the spring of 1894 came "Kelley's Army." Float- ing down the Des Moines river in a makeshift fleet, Kelley led a group of tramps and adventurers who were on their way to Washington to demand better economic conditions. By numbers and threats they terrorized communities into giving them supplies. Camped below Ottumwa, Kelley made known the army's needs through the local newspapers. Money was contributed and the army departed for Keokuk 32 without incident. The few that eventually reached Washington were unable to impress President Cleveland and the movement collapsed. The Spanish-American War disturbed the tenor of community life, for many local boys served with combat units of the army and navy including Com- pany G, the pride of Ottumwa citizens since 1884. On the economic front the city was caught in the vast changes which swept across the nation. The spark of individual enterprise was waning. It was evident that big business was taking over. Mass production and mass selling were to become the national pattern. Politically, change was manifest when the popular and progressive Theodore Roose- velt succeeded William McKinley as President of the United States. NEW BUSINESSES J. he first new business to start operations in this period was the Nicholls Manufacturing Company founded by Martin Hardsocg in 1896. Engaged in the manufacture of carpenters' steel squares, plas- tering trowels, cement trowels, and plasterers' hawks, the company's products received acceptance throughout the world for use in the building trades. The Ottumwa Box Car Loader Corp. came into existence in 1896 as the result of an idea developed by Henry Phillips of the Phillips Coal Co. Mr. Phillips designed a machine to load coal into box cars which was immediately successful with coal operators. Production of the loader was directed by W. E. Hunt, of the Ottumwa Iron Works. The firm became noteworthy as the only business in the country engaged exclusively in the manufac- ture of box car loaders. Joseph Dain, inventor of hay machinery, brought the Dain Manufacturing Company here from Car- rollton, Missouri, in 1900, after Ottumwa business men helped financially to make the move possible. Ten years later the plant was sold to Deere & Company of Moline, Illinois, although Mr. Dain remained with the firm and served as vice-president until his death in 1917. Niemeyer Bros, was founded in May, 1900, by L. H. Niemeyer who came here from Chicago. Shortly after, he was joined by Frank Niemeyer. For a number of years the company operated as a distributor of paper products before engaging in the manufacture of folding paper cartons. A variety of mattresses have been produced by the Ottumwa Mattress Co., since the firm was es- tablished here by David Spiwak in 1903. >/i Dain. Dain Manufacturing Co. 33 People pay attention when \M fctttf tsSflUflW \W VlT< \tt' «0« mouuy &c yXWlLl of jfioouy Avians &i :et uar .■ail' CP t^Amm *a **?ZL* tti« n ' IT* °"*" T a tB «<> 0dS C °'"* ,r ~ 1 I'nilC. .-•""■"HEAT *v -^° de Ate 00 ■*****• { ****** *?U** *% ***£ *+ } ■ fr*^ % x**6^ ~«« et *° - Vvtve oLf.vri . to^°^L^ t0 **»** ft*** 6 * ^e -? oU ?e* »" e * Arabian r . nic! "WE AB. H , i>C( '' 8UU (,," * FiVf'i.VP^Atit «„., ~ ' S 25 cents' e ^" ' -T cured. p r , n mio ^natS nn '»eaithir ua 8ss '« i'-WlSi^M and r Kt 25 ccn '«, 5SJ 34 you put it in the paper I. .«0NM idk r. b^ £?*•■• SB..? IDEAL .HAIR CURLER X AND FRIZZER does not miorch, burn or '• black the hair or hands. ?-f3S^r /{[fir A.ny lady after a slnulo 3ra8P HtJjyS Hj tr ial -will u»e no other. lav, . G. I. Tl :vny luay ai ler a singm trial will use no other. *\1 r not found with dealer, sent kv'liont paid for Fifty eents. ' G. I. THOMPSON, Mfr. *221 Fifth Aienne, CHICAGO. w r° «*to $§!"**> from //r^ 35 The Little Wonder Drill Co., now the Hardsocg Pneumatic Tool Co., was started in Ottumwa in 1 904 under the direction of Martin Hardsocg. Mr. Hardsocg, the inventor, saw his drill reach early success when it was used in such vast engineering projects as the subway system of New York City and the Panama Canal. One of the oldest distributors of wholesale foods in the midwest is the Lagomarcino-Grupe Co., deal- ing in fruits, vegetables and groceries. The firm was established in Burlington, Iowa, by Andrew Lagomarcino in 1875; William H. Grupe became associated with the business three years later. The Ottumwa firm was established in 1905. Since 1909 the Ottumwa Mercantile Co. has conducted a successful jobbing business in dry goods. The first president of the firm was C. L. Graham, who also organized, in the same year, the Graham Department Stores Co. consisting of retail stores located throughout the state. NEW PUBLIC SERVICES _Lhe Ottumwa Hospital owes its start to a group of ladies, members of the Mary Brooks Thrall Bible class of the First Methodist Church. In 1892, the ladies purchased from Dr. D. A. LaForce a building on East Main street which had originally belonged to Dr. Paul Caster. Equipment was installed and Miss Elizabeth Trotter of Owen Sound, Canada, became superintendent. Articles of incorporation of the Ottumwa Hospital Association were filed in 1893; Mrs. D. A. Emery served as the first presi- dent. As hospital needs outgrew the building, the ladies put forth a second effort, this time raising $25,000. They purchased the property at the cor- ner of College and Second streets and started con- struction in 1904. The new hospital was completed the following year and dedicated March 23, 1905. Civic minded ladies meeting at the First Metho- dist Church were responsible for organizing the Young Women's Christian Association in Ottumwa on January 22, 1894. Particularly instrumental in fostering the organization were Mrs. Louisa Swartz and Mrs. Sarah Taylor Hutchison. Mrs. Stella Porter became the first president. Early board members were Mrs. J. W. Neasham and Mrs. Sum- ner Siberell. Miss Abby McElroy was the first general secretary. In the fall of 1894, the association furnished reading and rest rooms, and opened a boarding house for girls. The local association grew rapidly and made a splendid record. In November, 1903, it staged the largest state convention ever held in Iowa, 200 delegates attending. At this time Mrs. T. D. Foster served as president, Mrs. George Haw, vice president, Miss Lou Inskeep, secretary, and Miss Virgie Zaring, treasurer. Miss Sara John- son was general secretary. The American Home Finding Association, a non-profit, private welfare agency, was founded by the Rev. U. B. Smith and Judge Milton A. Roberts in July, 1899. The Rev. Mr. Smith gave up his work in the ministry to devote his life to the care of neglected dependent children. By 1908, the Ottumwa Association was recognized as an out- standing institution, and at this time was able to expand its services through the purchase of a fif- teen-room building, enlarged to thirty-one rooms four years later. It became a strong arm of com- munity welfare which in forty-nine years of service was to care for more than 6,000 children. The Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce, origin- ally the Commercial Club, came into existence on October 7, 1902, when a group of twenty-two local business men decided that the town was in need of a permanent civic organization "to secure the aid and cooperation of all classes of citizens ... in advancing, promoting and fostering Ottumwa's material interests . . . and to vigorously act upon every opportunity to promote the prosperity of the city." The group included Mayor T. H. Pick- ler, T. D. Foster, George Haw, Sr., George Haw, Jr., W. H. Cooper, H. L. Waterman, S. H. Harper, S. L. McGavic, J. W. Neasham, E. H. Emery, M. A. Roberts, W. R. Daum, L. E. Stevens, Dr. Frank Mills, Ira A. Meyers, C. O. Taylor, Calvin Man- ning, John H. Macdonell, J. H. Mitchell, J. A. Calhoun, F. W. Simmons and Frank von Schrader. Jrfl* Ottumwa Hospital erected in 1905. 36 A soliciting committee was promptly named for the purpose of securing members, and within two weeks, 177 local business and professional men agreed to take an active part. The first officers, elected at a meeting in the city hall on Novem- ber 6, 1902, were S. H. Harper, president; T. D. Foster, vice president; and Leo Stevens, treasurer. Over the years the Chamber of Commerce has been identified as the strongest civic organization in Ottumwa. The roster of its members has borne the names of many prominent men who have served the community well. The first Boy Scout troop in Ottumwa was or- ganized in 1911 by the Rev. Mr. Locke of the Congregational Church. George Schleicher served as scoutmaster. Eight years later, through the Chamber of Commerce, a council was formed to promote interest in scouting, and to develop a long-range program which would encourage troop activities. D. A. Emery was the first scout com- missioner. In the years to follow, boy scout camps were held regularly. Rex I. Gary, whose person- ality and influence are warmly remembered, was the first camp director. The Ottumwa Heights College is an outgrowth of the former St. Joseph Academy, a resident and day school for girls established here in 1890. In order to provide more spacious accommodations, the Sisters of Humility of Mary purchased in 1907 a tract of land situated on the highest ground in Wapello county. The Sisters called the new acquisition Villa Marie, after the villa in France which had been the original home of the community. The cornerstone of a new building was laid in 1911 and two years later the distinctive red brick structure was completed. Time has dealt gra- ciously with it and today, surrounded with a variety of trees and overlooking gently rolling hills, the mellowed loveliness of the college is one of Ottumwa's most picturesque sights. Sunnyslope Sanatorium began its care of tuber- culars in 1916, when a committee of public-spirited citizens purchased for $3,000, Mr. T. D. Foster's summer home, Sunnyslope. Nurses were employed to care for patients and a caretaker and his Avife to maintain the property. Doctois named as county supervisors were J. F. Herrick and II. W. Vinson; other supervisors were Mrs. W. T. Harper, Mrs. M. J. McCarthy, J. B. Sax. C. S. Harper and E. K. Daugherty. 3/ THE OLD AND THE NEW COURTHOUSE 1 he cornerstone of a new courthouse was laid in Shown below at the left is the armory building as it 1892. The building was erected on the same spot as the old courthouse at Court and Fourth streets. appeared in the last century. At the right is the old courthouse. 38 MAIN STREET JVIain street underwent significant changes in a quarter of a century. Commercial properties were constructed of brick. The street was paved and traffic moved at a faster pace. FIRST PAVING •Street paving projects were always a sign of civic progress. Many curious citizens were on hand to watch the work at the familiar intersection of Wapello and Second streets, shown here getting its first coat of asphalt. 39 ENTERTAINMENT, SPORTS AND SOCIAL CUSTOMS JLhis was an age abounding in entertainment and sports, and the Grand Opera House served as the focal point of a cultural advance. Completed in 1891 at a cost of $50,000, it was a mark of municipal elegance. $5,000 was contributed by a group of enthusiastic citizens who longed for an opera house, while the remainder of the fund was furnished by the Opera House Company, composed of J. H. Merrill, Samuel Mahon, A. C. Leighton, W. R. Daum, J. W. Garner, Charles Bigham, J. W. Jordon and J. C. Jordon. In addition to serving as an entertainment center, the building housed political rallies, high school commencement exercises and business and community gatherings of many kinds. The great William Jennings Bryan delivered to a full house the same "Cross of Gold" speech that secured his nomination for President in 1896. For half a century many of the nation's celebrities were to appear, including Minnie Maddern Fiske and Mary Shaw, who played the lead in Ibsen's "Ghosts." The much lauded actors, John Drew and William Faversham, were here, as well as William Sherwood, a brilliant pianist, and Rose McGrew and Fritzi Scheff, famed singers, who de- lighted opera house audiences. Miss McGrew was an Ottumwa girl who studied music abroad and returned a great artist. Ted Shawn and Ruth St. Denis gave a dancing performance, and the be- loved Ernestine Schumann-Heink sang before an admiring house filled to capacity. Ottumwa re- ceived the great artists of the world with lively curiosity and warm friendliness. -THE- T«lve Great » Monday and .Tuesday, £^ cto „, M ,SSCORASCOTTPON ^ EXECUTIVE CO MaJor ,, C Manning ,< a D Moss .. R A Watts .„ c b. Evans .. a D Moss .. si*" „ H B Jones Mr ^vMcElroy P >v stewart M .f \v D Elliott .. A W ^e° , ,< aG Harrow .. Bacliman .. 1 C Jordan " mbHuWWW «i«s Mabel Dixon M.»» T ponton .. S Mahon .. SH Harper u V)b Carter M f 3 Scy Warden a r Leighton »? ow/^ick V 1 ■ ■ ___ — "J BO Nosier .1 H B Jones ,, 3 Williamson .. y,' S Carter VIC^ ES ^„ S McSe« » r j Williamson B G Ballingall T) r Smith X-W T Major PATR0S3 O* ^ f Danifc l Eaton .. Vanzant B E s Ely Virgin'* Roemer c h McrrM* o A Watts jG Hutchison D Bannister T A Fulton , -wDTisdalc • J B Sax , y[ \v Merrill " J NMaS i, a h .• LE Rogers ,. cMSchen^ „ o T> Tisdale ommencement exercises. OTTUMW A HIGH SCHOOL GRAND OPERA HOUSE Ju "e 6, 1901 O/TTUMWA BANDS Ihe history of Ottumwa bands may be traced to 1865 when Prof. C. F. T. Schwabkey organized a local band and remained as its director for thirty- three years. In 1898, Prof. Schwabkey was suc- ceeded by J. S. Higbee and the name of Schwabkey's Band was changed to the Wapello Chief Band. Five years later this organization became recognized as the regimental band of the 54th Regiment, Iowa National Guard. Mill Itl JIT MANDOLIN ORCHESTRA The Schubert Mandolin Orchestra, organized in 1892, entertained at many social functions through- out Iowa and northern Missouri, including an ap- pearance at the opening of the popular Elms Hotel in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. Pictured here from left to right are Harry Swenson, Harry Miller, Eugene Peterson, Frank Burton and Albert Kilby. Standing is William F. Muse, who served as man- ager of the Orchestra. ' ^ 1 J 1 " W 1 / ' it at ill — r-4i l * MM K*'+/K M / -. A ♦• ' j . - ( 1 _ t • ' 41 A HALF DOLLAR HAS NO CHARMS iTtotsday, September 26 3& -■Mill vl. tluintvoftiUinc Jfireatgr . ? AjTjE- 3,000 l «* night. tSS Sl ar f iVed here travel like otho 6rt doe8 n °t than riVto;v», *H* the ^uu'thj * ^0,000 car ff otr n,f ° rhe ride8 * b0W t at '■! ^ l comU1 M bnvl adrertfaini 'fo^I Up ox P^y for ii\c.nt vuav * „ u \ i\\t >u •'.'■ JU o ■"orepauo-h'a «ju„ m . C L„4 .m on carlh, ^°_ v ,, n , u f it does it. i u a f * * b s Sh °w-and «nrivaIle dC0 n 1 ti n r be8eeniuthi « Menagerie wS 10U of Cir <™and 25thi^/^ Ch . ls - to behereonthe Scott Kansas X ^ » »™ at Ft. ^Pointed time as JTI 1 hei * e at ,he rail^aytrX s ^ by s P ec "'al comes, a half charms cotnpai* dollar will have ,-UvUhhlssboNN. I &»3iJ ^f i, !$i ,/; :?si :. ' m .€?, •joining ^ Snecial » -, s»i TiieGreatestShowoJiSl ti SUPERB K-^^-- NTer - ■■ ■■ Ste el- Wd Are" d and £««*... 100 performers. Artists, »P Amu sement . . . ..000 ■•• Ier -ronsof P^e. ""' T „ e sE showS_ 2 '°°° " " « « s«n N °^!!!_!!I----^-~r7 U& ft cXi ?&0 If* @sj jssessfe Cbildrei .pope •• STK^£.,L ..^J™"*** "* !~^«t»«;* ALL BY RAIL FACTS FOR THE Prrnr ,n Hi Ppopotamus 3 "'y Biflfk ti„. ■■JE^JouWe Circus" 42- COMPARED WITH THE BIG SHOW! 43 THE COUNTY RACES Ottumwa was a horseracing center. The finest horses in the nation were entered here in events at the south side and west end racetracks, and specta- tors by the thousands came from all parts of the midwest. Lexington was proud of its Kentucky Derby but it had nothing on Ottumwa, Iowa. 1 "ce, closed J aae \w e / e " ° ,d sta ^ .Advance, enteejfe^^lFa'r «o^ ent - d "^B rUcn . Bu l g . l S 7/C^tr' enteredb ^T Kne e fe , ' ^.McCo^Zt * Start"* & Mo. 47 Gi "— ; dbyOTaylorSui 'feSS""* * W W A.dricb Lint of entripa r „ w . . ^"■oW.expec'aUon ; n ; De - '" n ""> tw ° «»■>* Fair of me" ""^ for W«l>elIo ^roSrr-°^^Geo. z B "«"". C ««L!:' "' en,ere < 1 i» r w.h o«ur^ Gir, '-^b 7 w„. Parmer o|S H ' e »^b yM . J . Williaoi ; ,. Ottumwa Girl „ . ,,a «". Ouu m „l r .' ' ered ^ A. B. VVil- O l t„,C D '°<»»-atedb / Ge 1 . Watered U ™Jl , "" Di «»««lI. 7 M.J. mruim D - & Uuaman, Sec'/. - ««c- Trotting Ass« Citizens ottumwa. , 0pe . A meeting waBboldri^ ra Bouse, Thursday >* cffccting an 10th, tor the P-f ; aUlng arvange- -S^-t-acesthesecona Ou motion Oen. J aluWa t el - called to the oh ^" Secretary. Uin»^ffir5roeoeaea to the '[.The meeting then 1 of tU c election of revman^ ; Dr j T lusBodation, as foVio ^ Lang f rA, iKxavlor, President, ^ Watcrm ae, IV Vi ce President 1^ ^ rc v Secretary; J- ;\ . ent lemcn w c ie I j The following f . s30ciall0 n, ■-elected Dircctois oi Gvo unds: , rh *»■ VV 11- r people have nr,™ k . ' lfter the the races he wm h» ,ntrod »«*J to their aUendanceduZth: fearS - aSt0 of the races. Mr. W m m, "T^ 61 " ^at.de a iforO tl rSa a i ndt Sd0inga Bhould stand by him VS^ Pe ° 1,,e T he.. .. Sport of J*f5 m m Kings A. m '*% m [ <^$ ft M „ SEPTEMBER ^ 5, 6, 7, a nc j 28, 1895 Sfbe G S e H °f^Pf America ,. e at thls meeting 22 , ,vaces °» the Programme > a. b will iaa* ml owa 45 IS the name by which this prominent social and sporting or- ganization is known throughout the state of Iowa. The club own a beautiful club-house on the western limits of the town, equipped with racing and pleasure boats. Among its members are some who have attained state-wide reputa- tion for speed as oarsmen, and at the State Regattas the Ottumwas color— Blue and White always are found in the front in racing events. The officers and members of the club are as follows: President JOHN H. MOR.RELL. Vice President OTTO VON SCHRADER, Secretary and Treasurer BEN. P. BROWN. Captain JULIUS FECHT. Coxswain FRITZ FIEDLAR.. IRoster of Members. W. B. Bonnifield. Jr. Ben. P. Brown, Chas. Bannister, Frank B. Clark, F. H. Carter, J. F. Dings, T. D. Foster, S. A. Forbush, Geo. W. Fabens, Emile Fecht, Julius Fecht, F. Fledlar, C. S. Harper, H. C. Harper, F. H. Hall, E. L. Kilby, J. H. Morrell, H. A. Masheck, F. A. Nimocks, F. von Schrader, Otto von Schrader, H. A. Smith, W. C. Wyman. ROWING TEAM 46 OTTUMWA BOAT HOISE THE "OTTUMWA" 47 BICYCLING As in horseracing, so in bicycle racing, events were notable for the appearance of nationally- known contestants. Kite Track on the south side staged some of the best meets in this section of the country. But the townspeople were not obliged to look far to find those who excelled. Ottumwa's own Orlando Stevens was a world's champion! Compet- ing in events in Europe, as well as in the United States, Stevens held records in the unpaced mile, half-mile and quarter-mile. Not only men knew the thrill of bicycling— ladies enjoyed the sport, too. At about this time the boys were singing, "But You'll Look Sweet Upon the Seat of a Bicycle Built for Two." ._ ■■ ....._• BASEBALL Baseball was a long-time favorite with sports fans, and in the 1890's the Coal Palace Team distin- guished itself as a top-flight organization. The lineup included pitcher Orelup; Clark, catcher; Jones, first base; Sharp at second; Validly at third; and Lynch at shortstop. In the outfield were Miller, Hogreiver and Bailey. But of all the thrill- ing storybook games played here surely the most prodigious took place in 1871. On July first of that year, the Appanoose of Ottumwa defeated the De Sotas of Highland, 136 to 29. There were 24 home runs. The game began at one o'clock and ended at five-thirty— on account of exhaustion, not darkness. The Ottumwa team was composed of local boys led by A. G. Harrow, of whom it was said, no one could hit the ball as far or throw it as hard. The De Sotas consisted of farm boys who played barefooted. Both teams played the game with bare hands. "THE GOOD OLD DAYS" Ihe social ways of "the good old days," the gay 90's and early 1900's, gradually disappeared, and as World War I and a wave of prosperity caught the national spotlight, they slipped out of sight, never to return. Francis Roy Moore evokes them in his book, Chief Wapello, A Tale of Iowa; "They were days ridiculed by a younger and more sophisticated generation; days when the Ballingall hotel was still Ottumwa's social center, and a show at the opera house an event. Days when merchants in dignified black displayed bolt after bolt of yard goods to ladies perched on stools before their counters. Days when drug stores were drug stores and not restaurants, when public eating houses were few and far be- tween, when people without homes lived in boarding houses as one more or less happy family. "Days when people took their religion seriously, and culture was not a thing to be despised; when men idealized their women, and modesty was still considered a fem- inine virtue. Days when ladies withdrew from the dinner table after dessert, to permit the men to smoke and indulge in small talk unhampered by the feminine presence. Days when lovers strolled in the moonlight, romance stimulated by the per- fume of roses and lilacs; when dancing parties ended promptly on the stroke of twelve, with the orchestra playing 'Home, Sweet Home'; when chil- dren were tucked safely away in bed by nine. Days when young people, for pastime, gathered about the piano singing sentimental ballads, climaxing an evening of fun by walking down to Pallister's for a dish of ice cream. "Horse and buggy days with the well-to-do popu- lation driving about town and through country lanes, the elite in their carriages the more humble in their single rigs. Young men with flowing mus- taches, long tailed coats, and hard boiled hats promenading the streets, twirling their walkiner sticks. Women in neatly tailored suits and sailor hats. Women venturing into short skirts and even bloomers for cycling. Women just begin- ning to escape from the ponderous slav- ery of dress. Good old days- indeed." fawygVP' 49 & WORLD WAR I s an d the Ljolden ^Jwenti wentied 1917-1929 hortly after the United States entered the world war in 1917, men of Company G, the local national guard organization, were called to active duty. Other mili- tary organizations soon followed, including a hospital unit and Company C, attached to the Iowa Signal Corps. Members of the Iowa Cavalry Band reported for duty in July, 1917. More than a thousand Ot- tumwa boys served in the various branches of the army, navy and marines; fifteen Ottumwa girls served as nurses. Company G, as- signed to the distinguished "Rain- bow Division," was committed to O. B. Nelson, world war hero, for whom the local American Legion Post was named. heavy fighting, especially in the strategic Luneville sector and in the bitter struggle at Chateau Thierry. When the true armistice was announced to the world on No- vember 11, 1918, a spontaneous celebration was touched off in every American community. In Ottumwa whistles shrieked, brass bands and cheering citizens pa- raded all day. Stirring speeches were heard in the city parks, and bonfires at night illuminated street corners in the business area. Every man, woman and child waved a flag and participated in the revelry which continued into the night. World War I was over! 50 THE GOLDEN TWENTIES Uuring the wave of prosperity accelerated by the war, new industries came to Ottumwa. The Royal Vault Manufacturing Co. with R. L. Phil- lippe, president, and E. W. Phillippe, secretary and treasurer, launched a new industry in Ottumwa in 1922 when they started the construction of steel burial vaults. The Barker Poultry Equipment Co., originally known as the Collapsible Coop Company, began conducting operations in Bloom- field, Iowa, in 1921, three years before its founder, Seth S. Barker, moved plant headquarters to Ot- tumwa. The firm has made steady progress, regu- larly adding new items to form a complete line of equipment for the processing of poultry and eggs. Products, shipped to all parts of the U. S. and to many foreign countries, include scalding machines, conveyorized equipment which defeathers up to 5,000 chickens per hour, stainless steel conveyor tables used in preparing poultry for the frying pan, and an egg-breaking machine which breaks eggs and separates the yolks from the whites at a rate of 6,000 eggs per hour. In addition, the company produces wire cases for bottled milk, butter, ice cream and other dairy products. Construction flourished as five magnificent new buildings appeared: the Hotel Ottumwa, Ottumwa high school, St. Joseph hospital, the YMCA and YWCA, all completed between 1917 and 1926. The municipal swimming pool was completed in 1929, and work was in progress on the city's new airport and hangar. At this time there was a burgeoning of the business district. From its inception, the city's prosperity had been intimately related to its activity as a retail trading center. The growth of population in the city and its surrounding area, and the spread of transportation facilities— from river boats and mule team to railroads, express highways and air freight— created for Ottumwa merchants an ever growing market whose demand they were quick to supply and stimulate. With a wide range of the quality merchandise expected by American buyers from Fifth Avenue to Sunset Boulevard, Ottumwa established the reputation it continues to hold as the shopping center of south- eastern Iowa and northeastern Missouri. In this respect, as in others, the town owed much of its good fortune to the healthy interaction of industry and agriculture which helped to expand, and in bad times to stabilize, purchasing power and credit. Local retail firms and the personalities who made them contributed generously to the community's welfare, along with distinguished professional men and women. The firms enumerated here, with many others, supplied and ministered to Ottum- wa's needs, and individually their members served in every branch of public endeavor. In the retail Barker Poultry Equipment Co. 51 field were J. B. Sax Co., Throne Grocery Co., Stevens Shoe Store, Baker's, Brown Furniture Co., Bremhorst Grocery, Brody's Clothing Co., Hof- mann Drug, Hall-Ekfelt Furniture Co., Hub Clothier, T. J. Madden Co., Truefit Shoe Co., Arnold Jewelry & Music Co., Cramblit 8c Poling, C. E. Cross Co., and the LaForgue's Leather Goods Store. Others were the Wormhoudt Lumber Co., Ottumwa Stamp Works, Iowa Steam Laundry Co., C. Kranz & Son, The Shaw Co., Randall & Son, and the Albert T. Stoessel Co. Legal firms included the McNett Law Firm, McElroy Land Title and Law Business, and the Griswold Abstract Co. Culturally, the town took on new life with the formation in 1930 of a local civic music association. Mrs. Frank P. Hofmann and Mrs. Paul R. Stoltz, both active musicians, were particularly instru- mental in organizing the association, having spent considerable time gathering information at the Civic Music Conference in Chicago in the winter of 1929. Shortly after their return to Ottumwa, a membership drive was conducted which brought more than eight hundred enthusiastic members. The first concert, given by the Minneapolis Sym- phony, was performed in March, 1930; the audi- ence was especially interested because Harold Ayers, an Ottumwan, was the orchestra's concert master. The event, entirely successful, signaled the permanency of the Ottumwa Civic Music Associa- tion as a welcome new dispenser of culture. In the years which have followed, many of the world's greatest artists have appeared in Ottumwa, includ- ing Helen Traubel, Lawrence Tibbett, Marian Anderson, Artur Rubinstein and Ezio Pinza. The San Francisco and Chicago Symphonies, while on tour, selected Ottumwa as one of the few cities over the country in which to give a performance. Al- though up to $8,000 is spent each year for talent, the association is supported entirely by the sale of membership, with residents of ten neighboring communities joining Ottumwans for the various concerts presented. Encouraged by the success of the association, in 1945 a Junior Civic Music Association was started by Miss Lottie Craig and Miss Jeannette Jansen, supervisors of music in the public schools. More than a thousand school children of all ages sit in rapt attention during the three matinee perform- ances given each year especially for them. NEW CONSTRUCTION Ottumwa High School— A rapidly increasing population necessitated a larger high school with modern equipment and furnishings. The present building, erected in 1923 and serving 1,200 stu- dents, is regarded as one of the finest in the state. 52 St. Joseph Hospital— Plans for the St. Joseph hospital began in 1924 when the Chamber of Com- merce called a public meeting to discuss possi- bilities for the construction of a new building. The committee included Dr. J. F. Herrick, W. J. Donelson, C. S. Harper, P. P. Phillips, C. B. Searle and J. J. Smith. Interest developed rapidly, and within two years a new 100-bed fireproof structure was ready for service. Among those who devoted considerable time and effort to the project and who deserve much credit for its success are Dr. J. F. Herrick and Mother Liguori Ketterer. YMCA and YWCA-The YMCA and YWCA buildings were completed in 1921 and 1924, respec- tively. Teaching the ways of high character and stressing the importance of a sound mind in a sound body, these organizations have helped thousands of boys and girls to become better citizens. In addi- tion their services are of value to adults seeking recreation and health-building activities. y. M. C. A. Y. W. C. A. 3 ?.H. a 1 1 3 1 a IBM Ml 1 1 > ' 53 Municipal Swimming Pool— On August 25, 1929, Ottumwans had a new kind of thrill— a swim in an outdoor swimming pool, the largest municipal pool in Iowa. Built during Mayor Edwin C. Manning's administration at a cost of $50,000, the pool accom- modates 1,000 persons, covers an area 250 feet by 125 feet and has a water capacity of 800,000 gallons. Hotel Ottumwa— The Hotel Ottumwa, a six story fireproof building erected in 1917, is one of the leading hotels in southeastern Iowa. THE DIAMOND JUBILEE X he confidence of the times burst forth in the Diamond Jubilee, a spectacular celebration in which thousands of Ottumwans commemorated the city's 75th anniversary. The Diamond Jubilee of 1923 was an elaborate reproduction of the city's history. Continuing for five days, August 7-11, the program consisted of three major attractions: an allegorical pageant, a street parade and an exposition. The Chamber of Commerce served as general Diamond JMte OTTUMWA dug. Ml, I92S. 54 headquarters; it set up committees months in ad- vance to make plans for the great event. Commit- tee heads included W. T. McElroy, Homer Roth, W. H. Powell, O. H. Michaels, John F. Hubbard, W. S. Vinson, H. L. Poling, Blaine Moore, H. W. Merrill, E. G. Cook, E. C. Loomis, B. F. Hoehn and John Schaefer. The pageant, held at the Ottumwa Country Club, told the story of the community in a series of "episodes." Hundreds took part. Indians from Tama, colorfully attired in their native costumes, performed the ceremonies of their forefathers. The street parade presented in the evening before thou- sands of spectators was the most lavish ever pro- duced in the city. Great floats passed majestically in review dramatizing the city's historic, fraternal and commercial life. The exposition was staged on Third street. Its primary purpose was to publicize and display Ottumwa products. "Made in Ot- tumwa" and "Sold in Ottumwa" were the motifs of the exposition, and the big tent which housed it had these slogans blazoned upon its sides. The Diamond Jubilee ended triumphantly in Riverside Park with a dazzling display of fireworks which was observed by more than 20,000 people. The 75th anniversary of the city provided enter- tainment and stimulated a wave of civic pride, which, in turn, awakened fresh interest in Ottumwa as a community conscious of cultural, social and economic advance. 55 Ottumwa Viaduct Vital Link. TOUGH SLEDDING an d& ecover y 1930-1941 Although this community felt the impact of a far-flung depression that began in October, 1929, the effect was not so disconcerting here as in the nation's metropolitan areas. To be sure, local resi- dents were deeply concerned, their lives in varying degrees disturbed. But Ottumwa industry, through sound management and foresight plus a healthy relationship with agriculture, was able to carry on and preserve the economic stability of the city. Most retail businesses continued to operate, and although bank failures were nationally prevalent, Ottumwa's banks to a large degree remained sound. The ap- pearance of new industries reflected confidence in the community's future. City officials, guided largely by Mayor Edwin C. Manning, launched projects which were to become major assets. A municipal golf course was completed in 1931, followed five years later by the construction of a three-lane via- duct which majestically spanned the Des Moines river and forged a vital new link in the country's great highways. The riverfront commission in 1934 erected a new armory-coliseum costing a quarter of a million dollars, and the school board built two new schools, the Horace Mann and the Agassiz, and in 1941 the new Schaeffer Stadium, with a capacity for 5,200 people and lighting facilities for night games. In the same year Mid-Continent Airlines became thoroughly established at the municipal airport thus giving Ottumwa a significant place in the field of air travel. In 1941 a new radio station, KBIZ, was founded by Jack Falvey. By the end of the decade business was good, and bank resources were rising steadily. After holding her own in the face of a staggering depression, Ottumwa, with astonishing speed, had made major advances. NEW INDUSTRY The Clausing Manufacturing Co., producers of metal turning lathes, began operations here when P. L. Clausing and his family purchased the Good- win Manufacturing Co. in 1931. Although several additions were made to the original building, it 56 was found inadequate to meet increasing needs of the business. Hence, a modern new structure on Richmond Avenue was built and completed in 1946. The pictures shown here reflect the growth of the business. Having become convinced that a better dup- licator could be built, Alfred E. Goodwin, in 1932, Photographs show growth of company; original building is pictured at left, and below is the new structure erected in 1946. Clausing Manufacturing Co. started the Vari-Color Duplicator Co. Mr. Good- win's duplicator, a mimeograph-type machine which prints in color, is shipped to many points throughout the world. The company has distin- guished itself as an organization which makes more parts for its product than any other manufacturer of duplicator machines. In addition, the company makes one of three perforating machines manu- factured west of the Mississippi river. The Ottumwa Foundry, Inc. came into existence in 1933 when C. B. Leedom established a plant in the Whisler building on West Main street. A new building was erected and occupied by the company in 1945. Operating as a jobber's shop, the com- pany produces farm equipment for such concerns as International Harvester and the John Deere Ottumwa Foundry, Inc. Ottumwa Works. In addition, the company makes a number of its own products including hog oilers, hog feeders and cattle horn weights. The Winger Manufacturing Co., directed by Barney, Lloyd and Walter Winger, has engaged in the manufacture of light steel fabrication since its incorporation in 1939. Packing house equipment has received particular attention and includes hand trucks, tables, conveyors and containers. Work is conducted, also, in the field of structural building steel. A separate company was formed in 1944, the Winger Construction Co., and two other mem- bers of the Winger family, Henry and Clifford, be- came associated with the new organization. Mu- nicipal and privately-owned power plants in Iowa and surrounding states have proved valuable cus- tomers, contracting with the company for the in- stallation of high pressure boilers, generators, pumps, condensers and other heavy equipment. During the second world war, a number of installa- tions were accomplished at the U. S. Naval Air Sta- tion in Ottumwa. F. E. Menor, L. J. Wilde and John F. Raney started the Ottumwa Shipping Container Co. on June 1, 1939. Engaged in the manufacture of cor- rugated shipping containers, the firm helps supply the three meat-packing plants of John Moncll 8c Co., located in Ottumwa, Iowa, Sioux Falls. South Dakota, and Topeka, Kansas. 57 Acme Brass Foundrv Co. Practical experience gained in past years as an operator of a large brass and aluminum foundry in his home town of Indianapolis, Indiana, led Fred W. Smith to resume interest in the foundry business and start a similar operation in Ottumwa. The Acme Brass Foundry Co. began modestly, in 1940, in a small building on highway 34. The organization grew with unanticipated speed and within six months additional operating space was necessary as a result of new business developed with firms from Chicago to St. Louis and east to New York. Products consist of aluminum castings for radio transformers and transmitters, electrical ap- pliances, soda fountain equipment, aluminum lawn mowers and many other items. Producing up to fifty tons of aluminum castings per month during the war years, the company became the largest foundry of its kind in the state, a distinction it continues to enjoy. The Johnston Lawn Mower Corporation, founded in the early 1900's by Frank W. Sharp and Roy Johnston, made curtain stretchers and sash pulleys before it engaged in the manufacture of lawn mowers in 1914. The firm continued in this business until 1941, at which time the Jacob- sen Manufacturing Company of Racine, Wisconsin, purchased the local concern. During the war, wire reels and cartridge extractors were made for the armed forces, and it was not until the fall of 1945 that production of hand and power mowers was resumed. Under the Jacobsen Manufacturing Company, with Oscar T. Jacobsen as president and Einar Jacobsen as vice president, the Ottumwa plant, still known as the Johnston Lawn Mower Corporation, has developed into a mass production operation, ninety per cent of its fabricated parts and tools being made here. Products are shipped to all sections of the United States and to many foreign countries. The Pressure Cast Products Corp., formerly known as the Lightner Manufacturing Co., was founded in 1941 by Harold Lightner and Bertha Orman. Fluorescent lamps and wood novelties were the first products made. Present attention is centered on the manufacture of wood patterns, aluminum pattern plates and cope and drag plates. Johnston Lawn Mower Corp. (Top, Center) 58 PUBLIC SCHOOLS The Horace Mann and the Agassiz, two attrac- tive modern schools, were added to Ottumwa's school system in 1940-41. In addition, Schaeffer Stadium was completed. Equipped to handle night games and seat more than 5,200 spectators, this new college-type stadium has become an outstanding center for athletic contests. It serves, also, as head- quarters for many civic functions. Horace Mann School. Agassiz School. Schaeffer Stadium . . . scene of thrilling football contests between Ottumtva High School and traditional opponents (Burlington, Muscatine, Fairfield, Mt. Pleasant, Washington, Ft. Madison, Oskaloosa, Keokuk, Centerrillr and Albia). 59 MUNICIPAL PROJECTS Within five years, three municipal projects were completed which have brought lasting credit to the community. The municipal golf course was laid out in 1931. Three years later the armory-coliseum was erected, and in 1936 the completion of the city's great concrete viaduct meant not only a modern new river crossing between Ottumwa's north and south sides, but, also, a major link in the country's highways. The city's first airport gained prestige in 1941 when Mid-Continent Airlines established operations here, including Ottumwa as a regular stopping point. Municipal Golf Course. ^ Armory Coliseum. Airport. ^ WORLD WAR II ^Jhe Ljeard of L^onflict 1942-194 5 J_he seeds of a prosperous and peaceful era planted in die preceding decade were soon stifled. On December 7, 1941, the community was stunned by news that the United States had been attacked by Japan. Within a few quick, decisive moments we were plunged into a second world war. During the years of the great conflict which found 12,000,000 men and women serving in vari- ous branches of the service, probably another 40,- 000,000 directly engaged in war production and every American citizen dedicated to a successful prosecution of the war, the city of Ottumwa gen- erously shouldered her share of responsibilities to the nation. Ottumwa families sent 4,200 sons and daughters into service. One person in every nine residents was in uniform; over the nation it was one in every thirteen. A number of local youths were decorated for action against the enemy, but the sum total of their heroic deeds will never be known. One hundred and forty-eight Ottumwa boys failed to return. The entire life of the city was geared to the war effort. A $15,000,000 naval air station in 1942 61 brought with it a large military population, and the presence of enlisted men and cadets led to the formation of a local U. S. O. Chapter which served from the summer of 1943 throughout the war. During the four years in which the station oper- ated to capacity more than 5,000 flying cadets were trained here. Ottumwa industries went all out; "No admittance" signs appeared outside the plants of the Ottumwa Iron Works, John Morrell k Co., Johnston Lawn Mower Corp., the John Deere Ottumwa Works and many others. Local indus- ISavy band. tries scheduled workers on 24-hour shifts, seven days a week in order to help provide necessary food and materials for the armed forces. The word "ration" not only was a practical mat- ter to be reckoned with as the populace queued up to obtain sugar, coffee, meat, fats, gasoline and fuel oil, but also, it became, along with the short- ages of housing, domestic help and baby sitters, the beginning and end of all conversation. City- wide drives for scrap metal were conducted peri- odically, the salvage material piled in the city park- ing lot. Practice blackouts were staged in prepara- tion for possible enemy attacks, and more than 1,500 Ottumwans were assigned to jobs in the plan for civilian defense. The years of World War II were hard, hectic and nerve-shattering for most people. As the last shots were fired and a new flicker of peace appeared upon the horizon, there was time at last for silence and meditation. There was time to remember that Ottumwa boys, American soldiers, sailors and ma- rines, had fought and died in many parts of the world. There was time to remember the bereaved families that must carry on. Air Strip, U. S. Naval Air Station at Ottumwa. 62 What, if anything, had the war accomplished? How do we feel about it now? There is a monu- ment which stands at a crossroads in Bataan. It was built by a company of engineers in commem- oration of the members of our forces, living and dead, who liberated the Philippines. A soldier who helped build it has said, ". . . With the lan- guage of stone and metal, it is hard to say, 'Do you remember?' But as a symbol of the job done, it will stand for years to come, baked by sun and washed with the rains of a land few of us will ever see again ... a land that is free now, like ours." That all lands may one day be free like ours, is the hope that foreshadows finality to war. In an age of atomic power, common sense tells us that war must end. Man has discovered how to destroy the world in a few deadly blows. There is room on earth only for those who will work for peace. 63 FACTS ABOUT OTTUMWA the j-^oit- l/Uar f-^erioa in 1946-1948 A he fast tempo of business life brought on by the war years has continued into the post-war period. Retail trade has leaped ahead with un- precedented volume. Industrial, commercial and residential expansion are apparent everywhere. New buildings are under construction and others soon will be. The city's complexion irradiates confidence and good living. Nor has the healthy complexion been a false sign of the city's vitality. For example, every resident felt the awful impact of disaster in June, 1947, when flood waters of the Des Moines river raced over large areas of the city leaving misery in their wake. The flood area was a discouraging mess. Smashed homes and wrecked businesses took long, hard months to rebuild, but the work of restora- tion was begun promptly. Resettlement of families from the lowlands has been accomplished. Calam- ity revealed a united citizenry. Steps necessary to assure future protection are being aggressively pursued. Wing dams have been constructed along the river to prevent further soil erosion. Representatives of the city have been active in the nation's capital and they have worked diligently with U. S. Army engineers to help evolve a system of flood protection for the Des Moines river valley. The following pages present evidences of commu- nity expansion which suggest the coming Ottumwa —a city destined for new and greater prosperity. 64 Billowy Clouds Cap Slopes of Farmland. Agriculture— Ottumwa deserves its proportion- ate share of recognition given to the state of Iowa as the producer of one-tenth of all food produced in the United States. Agriculture plays a vital part in the economic life of the community. Many local industries are directly related to and depend upon the farmer for successful business operations. Principal crops are corn, hay, soy beans and small grain. Hogs, cattle, sheep and poultry come to Ottumwa's markets. Airport— In leasing the U. S. Naval Air Station at Ottumwa, the city gained superior facilities for air transportation. Equipped to handle all types of planes, the local installation is given a high rat- ing by the Civil Aeronautics Administration. Mid- Continent Airlines resumed operations here in 1947, affording daily passenger and freight service between key cities throughout the midwest. Stevens Prairie Dairy Farm. Banking— Four banks and ten loan associations give the city a strong financial position. Bank re- sources total more than $26,450,000 and deposits approximately $24,500,000. Ottumwa Municipal Airport. 65 Oth lumwu . . . SHOPPING AREA FOR 200,000 PEOPLE! 50,000,000 other people in cities within overnight rail transportation. ST. PAUL MINNEAPOLIS SIOUX FALLS VJ1THIN Ov effA MILWAUKEE MEMPHIS 66 Wesley Methodist Church. Hofmann Building. Bookin Building. Business— Ottumwa retail firms are visited by more than 200,000 people who live within a radius of fifty miles. The largest municipally-owned con- crete parking lot in the state, built for the con- venience of visitors and shoppers, is a decided ad- vantage to business. Churches— There are forty beautiful churches of all denominations in Ottumwa richly providing for the religious life of the community. Ottumwa Municipal Parking Lot. 6"/ Lotvenberg Bakery. Construction — Commercial, in- dustrial and residential construc- tion has been conducted at the highest rate in the city's history. Twelve hundred building permits have been issued during the past two and a half years. Many new buildings will be constructed in the near future, a few of which are pic- tured here, together with others recently completed and in use. H. L. Yates & Co. Ackley Motor Co. Members of the Ottumwa Country Club have launched plans for a luxurious new club house and swim. ming pool. In addition, provisions have been made for the expansion of the golf course from nine to eighteen holes. The club house is now under construction. T Substantial progress has been made in construction of the new $400,000 Sunny slope Sanatorium. The structure will provide complete furnishings and equipment to care for more than one hundred patients; it will house eighteen nurses and staff members. A million dollar goal went "over the top" as Ottumwans pledged their dollars in the city-wide drive for funds to build a modern new hospital. Construction is to begin as soon as possible. 69 WILDWOOD SCHOOL. Continuing a plan to provide the best educational facilities for Ottumwa's children, the city has announced a program calling for the erection of four new schools. Work has already begun on Wildwood school, a sixteen-room structure costing nearly half a million dollars. HILLCREST PARK. The city's attractive Hillcrest Park will be the answer to a complete and compact modern playground for children of all ages. Under the direction of the Ottumwa Water Works, it will be constructed above the recently completed Court street reservoir. H Maple AviMt 70 Government— There have been four changes in government since the city was incorporated in 1851. The commission plan has been in operation since 1913. Highways— Ottumwa is at the intersection of federal highways number 34 and 63, running east and west and north and south, respectively, and state highways number 15 and 149, giving the city access to all sections of the nation. Hospitals— Two general hospitals, the Ottumwa and St. Joseph, have a combined bed capacity for two hundred patients. Work on the new $400,000 Sunnyslope sanitorium for tuberculosis patients is in progress, and a new Ottumwa hospital, for The Morrell Male Chorus, composed of employees of John Morrell & Co., has brought credit to the town, the company and to itself. Identified with the Na- tional Association of Male Choruses, the unit performs before business and civic organizations, colleges and church groups. Each appearance is offered gratui- tously, with the good wishes of the Morrell firm. The chorus is directed by Mrs. Paul R. Stall z: Mrs. Iver Carlson is the accompanist, and Peter Hissink, busi- ness manager. St. Joseph Hospital Nurses Home. which $1,000,000 has been raised, is to be con- structed within the near future. Hotels— The city has four hotels, the Ottumwa, Ballingall, Harding and Milner with a combined total of 422 rooms. Industry— A wide range of industrial concerns give balance and poise to the city. Ottumwa has excellent shipping facilities and low utility rates offering advantages to industry which cannot be found in many other communities. In addition, it offers factory sites and a large trading area with sound purchasing power. Genuine interest is shown in new industry. The town is ready to extend a cordial welcome to all. One new manufacturing firm to begin opera- tions in the post-war period is the Mid-West Potato Chip Co. Owned and operated by Donald E. Brown and Gunnard R. Swanson, two Ottumwa youths who served in the armed forces, this firm John Morrell & Co. 71 John Deere Ottumtca Works. has enjoyed steady growth. Its potato chips, pre- pared and delivered within twenty-four hours, are carried by a company-owned fleet of trucks to points throughout southeastern Iowa. Land Travel— Fifty million people are within the radius of an overnight train journey. Every day there are more than twenty departing trains and thirty-four departing buses giving access to all parts of the country. Eleven truck lines operate through the city. Local transportation needs are served by Ottumwa City Lines. Railroads consist of the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy; Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific; Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific; and the Wabash Railroad. Bus lines in- clude the Burlington Trailways, Overland Grey- hound Lines, Arrow Coach Lines, Bee Line Transit and Missouri Transit Lines. Newspaper— The Ottumwa Daily Courier is a leading newspaper of southeastern Iowa and north- ern Missouri. Its present circulation is 18,600; the number of readers is estimated at 40,000. Population— The present population is 42,000, making the city a key point in southeastern Iowa, and the eighth city in size in the state. Radio— Station KBIZ, affiliated with the Mutual Broadcasting System, has a listening audience up to 32,000 people to hear its news, public service and entertainment programs. GRAPH SHOWS STEADY GROWTH IN POPULATION 45,000 I 40,000 k V k Ji* 35,000 A b p J l* 30,000 * 1 ,\ J w 1 25,000 A j 1 *> 20,000 - M+ 1920 1948 72 Ottumica's attractive parks provide welcome relaxatior Ottumica's snow covered hills and valleys . . . in winter a thrill for artists and sportsmen. Recreation— A splendid park and playground 18-hole golf course and an outdoor swimming pool. system, municipally-owned, provides healthful rec- reation for adults and children alike. Well dis- tributed throughout the city, Ottumwa's ten parks contain more than two hundred acres of pictur- esque woodlands. In addition, the city owns an Lake Wapello State Park, near Ottumwa, has a variety of recreational facilities for the people of southeastern Iowa, including swimming, boating and fishing, a beautiful picnic grounds and mod- ern comfortable cabins. Lake Wapello. n Public Schools— Ottumwa is proud of its role in helping to preserve the state's admirable position in the field of education; Iowa has the lowest percentage of illiteracy of any state in the U. S. Ottumwa's school system embraces one of the largest and best equipped high schools in the state, three junior high schools, thirteen grade schools, one parochial high school, two parochial grade schools and a resident and day school for girls (Ottumwa Heights College). Student enrollment is over 7,000. Busi- ness training, nursing and fine arts courses are taught by several local institutions. Utilities— Electric power for Ottumwa and vi- Library. cinity is furnished by the Iowa Southern Utilities Co. Services are provided at rates which are among the lowest in the midwest. The Iowa-Illinois Gas and Electric Co. supplies the city with gas. Telephone communication is maintained through the Northwestern Bell Tele- phone Co. Water— Ottumwa's municipally-owned water plant, under the direction of H. A. Brown since 1912, furnishes the city with an abundance of pure water at low rates. The plant has a daily capacity of 18,000,000 gallons, although the current daily use is approximately 4,500,000 gallons. Federal Building. u Louise Bekman and Jim Davis were selected by Ottumtva High School honor students and members of the faculty as the outstanding senior girl and boy in the graduating class of 1948. In recognition of this, they received the valued awards made each year by the Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce. With each t omorrow, new roa jl or a city to conclude a span of one hundred years is not in itself important. The cause for celebra- tion lies in the achievements made during this period— the efforts of people, new to each other, working together in the spirit of friendliness, clear- ing land, constructing buildings, raising crops, de- veloping trade. This was the kind of progress that made America. It sprang from a common desire among freedom-loving people to better themselves a 3 lead to roaredd proa and their community. To these people and their purposes, Ottumwans of today pay tribute. In their story is inspiration for greater deeds. The extent of our indebtedness is a measure of our own oblioa- tion to the coming generations. With each tomor- row, new roads lead to progress. As Ottumwa takes pride in its past, it gains a larger vision of its future and of the solid foundations upon which that greater future shall be erected. . . . 75 iDiioaraphiA BOOKS History of Wapello County; published by Western Historical Com- pany, Chicago, Illinois (i8j8). Portrait and Biographical Album of Wapello County, Iowa; pub- lished by Chapman Brothers, Chicago, Illinois (i88y). Ottumwa 1889 Illustrated History of Wapello County, Iowa; published by the S. J. Clarke Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois (1914). Glenn B. Meagher, Harry B. Munsell, Ottumwa, Yesterday and Today; Ottumwa Stamp Works, Ottumwa, Iowa (1923). Honor Roll of Wapello County; Voight and Dunaway, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Francis Roy Moore, Wapello Chief, A Tale of Iowa; The Torch Press, Cedar Rapids, Iowa (1938). The Lee Papers A Saga of Midwestern Journalism; Star-Courier Press, Kewanee, Illinois (194^). NEWSPAPERS Ottumwa Courier Ottumwa Democrat PAMPHLETS . . . ZJheSe and \Jther Sources Reports of Reverend B. A. Spaulding; The Missionary Press Co., Wichita, Kansas. Scrapbook prepared by the Rev. J. M. McElroy. James A. Davidson, The Development of Education in Ottumwa, Iowa (July, 1942). n awort ofOtt vimwa ONE-YEAR TERM Duane F. Gaylord A. H. Hamilton George Gillaspy William L. Orr Erastus Washburn Samuel Gossage 1862, Manlove McFarlin Samuel Gossage James Hawley 1866, C. E. Fulton 1868, W. B. Littleton 1870, William L. Orr . . . 1872, 1873, 1874, O. D. Tisdale J. S. Porter 1877, W. H. Resor H. L. Waterman . . . 1880, 1881, 1882, G. A. Madison 1884, Frank Dungan H. B. Hendershott 1887, W. W. Epps 1889, J. R. Burgess 1891, D. A. LaForcc .... 1893, 1894, 1895, T. J. Phillips 1897, 857 858 859 860 861 863 864 865 867 869 871 875 876 878 879 883 885 886 890 892 896 898 TWO-YEAR TERM T. J. Phillips 1899-1901 T. H. Pickler 1901-05 B. F. Slutts 1905-07 T. J. Phillips 1907-11 S. A. Harper 1911-13 (Term completed by L. A. Gordon) Pat Leeney 1913-15 F. C. Carter 1915-17 Pat Leeney 1917-19 C. O. Warren 1919-21 Charles Chilton 1921-25 Seneca Cornell 1925-27 E. R. Mitchell 1927-29 Edwin C. Manning 1929-37 C. A. Hill 1937-4 1 David A. Nevin 1941-47 Herman J. Schaefer J 947" FORMS OF GOVERNMENT Board of Trustees 1851-57 Special Charter from the State of Iowa 1857-68 Mayor-Council Plan 1868-1913 Mayor-Commission Plan . . . . 1913- 77 Additional copies may be purchased by writing to James C. Taylor, Jr., 120 South Court St., Ottumwa, Iowa PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. BY MANZ CORP.. CHICAGO, ILL. UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS-URBANA 3 0112 001064093