Full Text of "75 Years of Sully County History, 1883 - 1958", pages 93 - 112
This file contains the full text of a part of "75 Years of Sully
County History", edited by Mrs. E. L. Thompson.
Scanning and OCR by Joy Fisher, http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00001.html#0000031
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This book was produced by the Onida Watchman and is not copyrighted.
Reproduction of all editorial and pictorial matter is explicitly permitted.
Street Scenes
[photo - Busy Corner at Carl Falkenhagen General Store, 1910]
[photo - Driving Into Agar From the West ... Left to right - Atlas Lumber Yard,
Seward and Leeper Lumber Yard, Carl Falkenhagen Land Office, Falkenhagen's Store
and Drug Store. Foreground showing Mr. Erickson, first depot agent, standing on
ladder and washing windows. Working men install railroad water mains.]
[photo - View of Agar Looking Northeast, 1910 ... Carl Mitchell home, Carl
Falkenhagen home under construction. A. V. Goodrich home and J. B. Bessire home.
Foreground - Carl Falkenhagen Store, Cole Drug Store, Agar Argus, Ed Ryan
Hardware Store, Agar State Bank, Josephine Ryan Hotel and Restaurant, P. M.
Kennedy Store and L. P. Christianson Pool Hall.]
[photo - Southwest Corner of Sully Avenue and Ash Street, 1923 ... Andrew
Sorensen Store on the corner, the postoffice to the left and the north half of
the Hotel.
[photo - Looking Southeast along Sully Avenue, 1911 ... Baseball game in
Foreground.]
Lodges and Organizations
American Legion, Sully Post, No. 79
[photo - Sully County's Last G. A. R. Members. Pictured left to right--George
Pierce, Henry Spencer, George Fisher, Benjamin Nelson, A. G. Benedict and J. N.
Garner.]
The Grand Army of the Republic, U. s. Grant Post, No. 95, was such a great
inspiration and help to the boys of World NVar 1, that it would be folly not to
mention it at the beginning of the Legion history. George Pierce, the last
survivor of the G.A.R., passed away on November 25. 1932.
The national organization of the American Legion was formed in the spring
of 1919, and in September, of that year, a meeting of ex-soldiers, sailors and
marines in this area was held in the Coquillette building (Fosness Cleaners) for
the purpose of organizing a local Post. About 50 eligible servicemen attended
the meeting and after reaching a decision to apply for a charter, a discussion
was held to select an appropriate name for the organization. As Sully County was
named for one of the army's famous generals, General Alfred Sully, it was deemed
proper to use the name Sully Post. On September 18, another meeting was held in
the Serbousek building (originally Dunlap Hall), at which time election of
officers was held and a permanent organization established. Officers elected
were Clinton J. Crandall, post commander; Forrest J. Eager, vice commander;
Maynard A. Knox, post adjutant; Albert F. Schriever, post finance officer; Earl
Q. Hardwick, historian; Sig Severson, Frank C. Hyde, Francis L. Stringer and
Robert L. Nelson, executive committee.
On September 29, 1919, a permanent charter was issued to Sully Post, No.
79, American Legion Department of South Dakota, Onida, South Dakota. Charter
members, besides the officers and executive committee, included Lew J. Drasky,
Clyde Bloom, George R. Harvey, Frank Moushke, John McGuire, John E. Fanton, J.
Ford Cole, Al E. Byrum, George Gerlach, Ralph J. Spaid, Edwin Fanton, Jr., Earl
J. Becker, Ralph D. Lister, John Halverson, Russell Rilling, Anthony C. Etzkorn,
Daniel C. Berg, Sam M. Harvey, W. E. Sheffer, Jess Grove, Charles 0. Telford,
George E. Becker, Louis C. Spaid, Scott Emeigh, Jacob H. Wagner and Edmund S.
McConnell.
[photo - Sully Post No. 79, Drum and Bugle Corps and Band. Pictured left to
right-Earl Hardwick, bass drum, baritone, bugle and cymbal; M. R. Keck, snare
drum, first bugle and trombone; "Paddy" Holm, snare drum, second bugle and
trumpet, and L. A. Fosness, snare drum, tenor bugle and alto.]
The first money raised for Sully Post No. 79, was derived from a dance
held on September 26, 1919, in the Dr. Hart garage building north of the
courthouse. Sully Post Legion Track Relays were sponsored for several years,
beginning in 1926 for the benefit of high schools in central South Dakota. Those
relays netted the Post a small amount of money, but were carried out mainly for
the purpose of good fellowship and community welfare. Beginning in 1929 the Post
established an annual fall entertainment called, "Roarin' Gulch." Four home
talent plays were presented over a period of years, and unforgettable were the
Legion rabbit hunts, pheasant hunts and the amateur hour at the Sully County
Fair. The Legion frequently had charge of the bowery dances held at the annual
county fair.
In 1930 Sully Post organized a four-man drum corps and band. This little
outfit, dressed in the Continental uniform of 1776, under the leadership of
Marvin R. Keck, was sent to the National Convention of the American Legion held
in Boston, Massachusetts, that year and received national recognition for their
novelty and unique playing ability. They performed at the Nation's Capitol and
White House for President Hoover. In 1933 they attended the World's Fair and
National Legion Convention in Chicago, and went to every state convention from
1930 through 1934 and won first place the last four years in the Class "B"
division. In 1931 they were special guests of Department Commander Carroll H.
Lockhart, at the North Dakota Department Convention at Valley City, North
Dakota.
Past Commander Hardwick conceived the idea of organizing a club of past
commanders and arranged a meeting in basement of the Brabec Cafe on the eve of
November 10, 1936. A banquet was served by Mrs. Hazel Brabec.
[photo - Past Commanders, Sully Post No. 79. Pictured back row, left to right-
Charles Danks, Timothy Hull, John W. Day, Robert Clausen, Russell Hoover, Robert
Demery, Ray Bartels and Wilbur Hofer. Middle row, left to right-Wilber M. Day,
Howard A. Weischedel, Jacob G. Hofer, Earl Q. Hardwick, Preston Starbuck,
Maynard P. Green, Sheldon Bright, commander. and Arthur J. Owens, Fort Pierre
Post. Front row, left to right-Carl Kelly, Alton E. Lewis, J. M. Reedy, G. C.
Reynolds, Leo A. Ternmey, Walter G. Abbott, Max Rodman, Maynard A. Knox and
Louis A. Fosness.]
The local Post has carried out many activities for the welfare of the
community such as members delivering Christmas baskets to needy families filled
with a complete Christmas dinner for the family with candy, nuts and toys for
the children; marking veterans' graves; planting memorial trees; assisting in
building Lake Sully, and sponsoring Boys State, Boy Scout troops, Cub Scouts and
Junior baseball. About $20,000 worth of donate feed from various Legion Posts
throughout Iowa, Nebraska and Minnesota was distributed by a Sully Post feed
committee during the severe fall and winter of 1931-32 with the help of WNAX
radio station and the railroads, who hauled this feed free of charge. The result
was-no stock lost for want of feed. The Post was complimented by the St. Louis
office of the National Red Cross. In 1950 two Legionnaires, Fosness and Nelson,
were successful in obtaining Dr. Alfreds Rimsa, M.D. and his wife, Milda Rimsa,
M.D. for Onida and the community, and the Post purchased an X-ray machine for
the Onida Community Hospital the following year.
In 1957 a Legion home was purchased from Legionnaire J. M. Reedy which is
located on the northwest corner of block three, original Onida. Here the Legion
and Auxiliary hold their meetings on the second Thursday of each month.
Included in the Unit is Legionnaire Col. Henry A. Smith, Commanding
officer of the 147th Field Artillery Corps, Senior Tactical Commander, South
Dakota National Guard.
Wilbur M. Hofer, a Korean veteran, received state recognition and a Go-
Getter trophy for signing up the highest percentage of Post quota memberships
for the year 1957, and Sheldon Bright received the State Legion trophy for the
outstanding Legionnaire of 1958.
PAST COMMANDERS SULLY POST NO. 79
Symbols: (D) deceased; (I) World War I; (H) World War II; (K) Korean
Year Commander
1919 Clinton J. Crandall ID
1920 Charles O. Telford ID
1921 Charles D. Jack ID
1922 Charles D. Jack ID
1923 A. F. Schriever I
1924 Maynard Knox I
1925 Albert F. Scheffer I
1926 James Nystrom I
1927 J. M. Reedy I
1928 Earl Q. Hardwick I
1929 Wesley C. Jordan ID
1930 Marvin R. Keck I
1931 Charles B. Knox I
1932 Charles W. Nattress I
1933 Leroy Teets I
1934 George R. Cooper ID
1935 Louis A. Fosness I
1936 Clarence R. Brabee I
1937 Garrett C. Reynolds I
1938 Walter G. Abbott I
1939 Joseph G. Hofer I
1940 Sig Severson ID
1941 Wilber M. Day I
1942 Charles Earl Miller I
1943 Harold Murray ID
1944 Howard A. Weischedel I
1945 Alton E. Lewis I
1946 Carl Kelly I
1947 Max Rodman I
1948 John W. Day II
1949 Maynard Green II
1950 Robert Mikkelsen II
1951 John Neu II
1952 Russell Hoover II
1953 Wayne Nelson II
1954 Charles Danks II
1955 Ray Bartels II
1956 C. T. Hull II
1956 Preston Starbuck II
1957 Robert Clausen II
1958 Wilbur Hofer K
1959 Robert Demery II
1958 MEMBERSHIP, SULLY POST NO. 79
Symbols: World War I (I); World War II (II) Korean Conflict (K)
Prepared by Sheldon Bright, Post Adjutant
Abbott W. G. I
Ahrendt Benhard II
Anderson Dennis II
Allison Alvin K
Bartels Dale II
Bartels Ray II
Bayne Ervin K
Bayne Ira II
Becker George I
Becker Henry I
Baxter Earl II
Beebe Wilbur II
Biley Virgil II
Bright Sheldon II
Bronson Don II
Bruegel Frank II
Buol Buell V. K
Buol Willis K
Bush Emmett II
Byrum Elliott K
Carr Lyman II
Carroll Larry K
Cass James K
Chamberlain LaVonne II
Clausen Robert II
Clouse Durrell I
Corcoran Burl II
Crabtree Eugene II
Crandall James II
Cunningham Clayton II
Danks Charles II
Davis Harold II
Davis Grayson II
Davis Melvin II
Dalton Floyd II
Donahue Jack II
Day Gordon I
Day John II
Day Wilber I
Demery Robert II
DeSautell Clifford K
Ebert Lyle II
Eldridge Robert II
Eldridge Joe II
Ellis Walter II
Fanton Edwin I
Fosness Louis A. I
Foth Stanley II
Fox Winfred II
Galinat John II
Galinat Walter II
Galinat Leonard I
Garrett Vernon II
Genzler Martin II
Genzler Emil K
Gluhm Herman I
Gluhm Wilbur II
Green Maynard II
Green Willis II
Greenan Joe II
Griffin Peter I
Glanzer Samuel II
Goldhammer Marlyn II
Gross Benny J. II
Groseclose Richard II
Hale Allen II
Hardwick Earl Q. I
Heasley Wilson I
Heien Alvin II
Heintz Kenneth II
Hickox T. M. I
Hiller Marvin K
Hines Willard I
Hofer Jacob G. I
Hofer Joseph G. I
Hofer Jacob S. II
Hofer Joe S. I
Hofer Wilbur K
Hofer Leroy K
Hofer Kenneth K
Hoover Russell II
Hughart John II
Huse Kenneth II
Hyde Frank I
Huse Conrad II
Hyde Owen K
Hyde Orville II
Johnson Robert K
Kellogg Leroy II
Kelly Carl I
Kiker Theo K
Kimball Roy E. K
Kinder Earl II
Klingbeil Rudolph II
Klix Eddie I
Knox Charles B. I
Knox Maynard A. I
Koenig Robert II
Koerner Robert II
Larson Hans I
Larson Arthur I
Lawrence Darry K
Leesman William II
Leiser Tony K
Lehmkuhl Elmer II
Lewis Alton E. I
Lomheim Clarence II
Malloy Pat I
Marse Art II
Marso Terry K
Martin Larry K
McKeehan R. D. K
Meyers Melvin II
Meyers Nick II
McClure Jack II
Maskovitch Mike II
Mayes Lawrence II
Menninger Herman K
Minder David K
Mikkelsen Robert II
Mileusnich George W. K
Miller Charles Earl I
Miller Charles Edward II
Miller John II
Miller Raymond II
Misterek Edward I
Mosiman Alfred II
Mosiman Elmer II
Meyers Norman K
Nelson Wayne II
Nueman Chester II
Nueman John II
Neihoff Rueben II
Osborn Arthur K
Otey William II
Owens Arthur J. I
Peterson David K
Phares Gay II
Pierce Stanley II
Porter Robert K
Plumb Sybil II
Ramler Paul II
Reedy Jack I
Reynolds Garrett C. I
Ripley Elmer II
Ripley Ralph D., Jr. K
Ripley Walter I
Rodman Max I
Ryan Joseph G. I
Ruckle Calvin II
Sack Frank J. I
Schaeffer John II
Schmitgen Theodore II
Schmitgen Alvin K
Schriever Albert F. I
Serbousek Lumer II
Serbousek William II
Schumacher Marvin II
Shoup Bert I
Sack Paul II
Silbaugh John II
Smith Henry, Jr. II
Smith Marvin II
Spaid Louis O. I
Spaid Ralph I
Spaid Robert K
Spears William D. K
Stahl Albin K
Stahl Willard II
Stahl Francis II
Starbuck Francis II
Starbuck Preston II
Stoll Willard I
Sutton John E. K
Thompson E. L II
Thompson L. S. I
Traxinger Herman II
Trumble Albert I
Trythall William II
Uhl Dale I
Unruh Harvey II
Varcoe Fred I
Venner Arthur I
Walsh Frank II
Weischedel Charles I
Weischedel Fred I
Weischedel Gerald II
Weischedel Howard A. I
Weischedel Howard R. II
Weischedel Jake K
Waldner Maynard K
Wagner Harold I
Waite Harrison N. I
West Harold II
West Wendell II
Williamson Larry K
Westphal Marvin II
Wood Cecil I
Wood Harold II
Wright Marion II
Yackley Richard K
Yeager Hilmer I
Young James II
Zebroski Richard K
The first and paramount issue of the American Legion is to care for its
disabled, widows and orphans. Max Rodman, county service officer, has this
responsibility, with the assistance of fellow Legionnaires.
Legionnaires on the Selective Service System, Board No. 1, Sully County,
include G. C. Reynolds, Maynard Green, Emel Johnson, and L. A. Fosness, Appeal
Agent.
DECEASED VETERANS IN SULLY COUNTY CEMETERIES
Symbol (A) Agar; (0k) Okobojo; (Ft.S) Fort Sully; (M) Memory marker only
Civil War
Agar, Charles H.
Benedict, Andrew
Clark, John M. Ft.S
Donor, Thomas
Dunlap, Robert
Fisher, George
Green, John J.
Green, John S. Ok
Clark John M.
Glessner, John W. Ok
Haverly, Madison
Henderson, G. H.
Jackson, Abraham
Johnston, William J.
Joiner, John A.
McClure, J. M.
Nelson, Benjamin
Porter, J. M.
O'Connor, Haines
Putnam, Frank M. Ok
Pierce, George
Snauffer, J. H.
Sequin, Morris
Sheppard, W. H.
Seward, Jacob
Squire, Ezra
Teare, William H.
Towle, Richard Ok
Wiggins, Minor
Spanish War
Drasky, J. J.
Green, William Ok
Goddard, David
Goddard, James
World War I
Avery, William
Barber, Francis
Bunch, Ivan Ok
Callanan, George
Dorsey, J. J.
Eager, Forrest
Flood, Emil
Fanton, John E.
Gustafson, Phillip
Huffman, Elmer
Jordan, Wesley C.
Lemon, Harley
Sammons, Arlie
Serbousek, Robert A
Severson, Sigfried
Wagner, Jacob
Weischedel, Daniel
Yeager, Horace
World War II
Goddard, Frank O.
Hunsley, Maurice E.
Hyde, Neil M
Westphal, Eugene M
Korean
Goosen, Leroy
Sack, Louis A
WORLD WAR II BOYS FROM SULLY COUNTY KILLED IN ACTION
Name Rank and Serial Number Theatre
Culey, Donald Pfc. 37 546 843 European
Forrest, Leonard Pfc. 37 467 515 European
Glessner, Henry C. Pvt. 6 543 754 European
Jones, Victor B. AV. Ordm. 2nd Class U. S. Navy
Hyde, Neil Sgt. 37 551 252 Mindinao-Pacific
Lehmkuhl, Merle E. Pfc. 37 114 897 Leythe-Pacific
Westphal, Eugene Pfc. 37 307 878 India
Goosen, Leroy Pfc. 55 239 976 Korean
[photo - A Group of Legionnaires in 1938]
The history of Sully Post No. 79, is not finished. Its members are
carrying on. Membership and interest are high and its activities are a vital
part of the community life of Sully County. As the Grand Army of the Republic
kept alive the best traditions of American patriotism following the Civil War,
so the American Legion, through its posts, is fostering and perpetuating a one
hundred per cent Americanism and all that it implies, holding high the torch
which was thrown to them "In Flanders Field." And now those lads of World War II
and the Korean Conflict will take the responsibility and resolve to make this a
better world for all humanity in which to live, where grief and suffering shall
be at a minimum. - L. F.
Boys State
A citizenship training program sponsored by the American Legion was
started in 1940 and each year boys of the junior class in high school from all
over the state are represented. The faculties make up a list of boys qualified
for this honor from their potential qualities in leadership, character and
scholastic standing. And from this list, the local Legion posts and other
supporting organizations, such as the Kiwanis, Lions and others, make their
selections. The Boys State Convention is held at Northern State Teachers
College, Aberdeen, the first week in June, and here the youths learn the
workings of democracy by active participation in the mythical state. The first
convention was limited to 240 boys; however, the number has increased
considerably through the years.
The following are the boys from the Onida High School who have attended
Boys State to date. Jack Abbott, 1940; Kenneth Bandy, 1941; Donald Becker, 1942;
David Trumble, 1943; (no convention), Forrest Byrum, 1946; John Sutton, Jr.,
1947; William Jordan, 1948; Phillip Zebroski, 1949; Robert Porter, 1950; James
Ryan, 1951; James Sutton, Jr., 1952; Kent Hyde, 1953; Mark Hyde, 1954; Robert
Sargent, 1955; Kenneth Sutton, 1956; Pat Cullinan, 1957, and Harry Thomas, 1958.
- M. S.
American Legion Auxiliary
The Onida unit of the American Legion Auxiliary to Sully Post, No. 79,
Onida, South Dakota, was organized on January 21, 1921.
The first meeting place was under the First National Bank, the present
location of the Onida Bank, with Mrs. Inez Knox, president, and Effie Stringer,
secretary The Unit has met regularly on the second Thursday of each month since
that time.
Early in the spring of 1921, a permanent charter was issued with the
following charter members: Jennie Sheffer, Belle B. Cole, Effie Stringer, Hazel
M. Eager, Kitty McConnell, Alice Ludwig, Mabel A. Jack, Adyline Pearl Smith,
Inez A. Knox, Beth Knox, Ida Marie Yeager, Julia Valentine, Myrtle A. Lauison,
Lucille Yeager, Blanche Drasky, Marie Fanton, Marie Rumrill, Elnora L. Quimby,
Faye Coleman, Pauline Liskey, Ann Lisky, Emma Lister, Juana Larenman, Adele
Nelson, Mathilda McGuire, Bertha Hortman, Hazel Hortman, Mary Jordan, Grace Emma
Byrum, Alice Byrum, Teresa Serbousek, Pearl B. Gerlach, Edna Church Hart, Alice
Smith, Wanda Parrott Nelson, Emelia N. Johnson, Alice B. Severson and Ona
Chamberlain.
Delegates to the first department convention, held in Aberdeen, S. Dak.,
in 1921, were Inez Knox and Jennie Sheffer. It was at this convention that the
Preamble was adopted.
In the early days of the Unit there didn't seem to be much information or
guidance from Department Headquarters. Indeed, the Unit is indebted to the
patriotic spirit and unselfish service of those early officers and members for
its very existence and survival. They followed the first lines of the Preamble
to the letter, "For God and Country."
Sully Unit has always cooperated with the American Legion, Sully Post No
79, in observing Memorial Day. In 1932 the local unit of the Womens Relief Corps
to the Grand Army of the Republic disbanded and Sully Unit assumed their duties
decorating on Memorial Day the graves of all soldiers of former wars, together
with the graves of World War I and II and the Korean Conflict. Poppy wreaths and
flags are placed on the graves of all Auxiliary members. The Unit shall continue
decorating all of these graves throughout the years to come.
Since 1947 the local Unit has been sponsoring a representative junior girl
from Onida High School to Girls State held each year at Dakota Weslyan,
Mitchell. Donna Klix was the first Girl Stater chosen to receive this honor.
Other girls, attending the week-long session held on the campus of the
University at Mitchell were Norma Stockstad, 1948; Lois Sutton, 1949; Goldie
Mileusnich, 1950; Patty Rappana, 1951; Shirley Mason, 1952; Delma Dean Clark,
1953; Betty Ludwig, 1954; Beverly Letellier, 1955; Connie Rappana, 1956; Rose
Miles, 1957, and Bonnie Becker, 1958
Through the years the Unit has carried on an extensive rehabilitation and
child welfare program-both in the department and locally. It sponsored preschool
clinics from 1932 to 1942, and since 1936 has assisted with the baby clinic and
contest at the Sully County Fair at which time loving cups are presented to the
most perfect baby boy and baby girl.
The Unit has a Poppy sale each year in May and also has conducted Poppy
essay and poster contests. Funds for Unit activities are earned by serving lunch
for the American Legion's famed "Roarin' Gulch," poppy sales, food sales and
plays.
The Sully Unit Gold Star Mothers are Teresa Serbousek (deceased), World
War I; Lily Forest, World War II; Rhoda Hyde, World War II; Helen Culey, World
War II; Agnes Bowe (deceased), World War II; Imo Jordan, World War II; Anna
Westphal, World War II, and Adina Goosen, Korean Conflict.
The Gold Star Sisters of the Unit are Jeanette Hart, World War I; Elnora
Quimby, World War I; Bessie Lumley, World War I; Otelia Pitlick, World War I;
Alvina Wagner, World War II; Jean Hyde Kane, World War II, and Agnes Niehoff,
Korean Conflict.
The Past Presidents Parley was organized May 24, 1954, with Mrs. Marie
Rumrill acting chairman, she being the first of the past presidents living in
Onida at the time. The purpose of the Past Presidents Parley is to assist the
local Unit. In 1956 the Parley put on the tenth district convention held in
Onida, and since has helped with the membership drive.
Sully Unit has given to District 10 two district presidents. Ada Jordan
served two terms from 1938-1942 and LaVonne Chamberlain, 1952-1954.
The Unit and its members have served the community long and well and will
continue to serve and support any and all worth-while community activities,
never forgetting their first obligation is to the disabled veterans and their
families. - L. F.
The presidents who have served Sully Unit and their secretaries are as follows:
President Secretary
1921 Inez Knox (Deceased) Effie Stringer
1922 Jennie Sheffer (Deceased) Edna Church Hart
1923 Belle Cole (Deceased) Hazel Hortman
1924 Effie Stringer (Deceased) Julia Crandall
1925 Doris Snyder (Lives in Colorado) Effie Stringer
1926 Alice Severson (Deceased) Effie Stringer
1927 Hazel Brabee (Lives in Oregon) Ruth Nystrom
1928 Effie Stringer (Deceased) Alice Severson
1929 Marie Rumrill (Lives in De Smet, SD) Ada Jordan
1930 Marie Rumrill Florence Boyd
1931 Ruth Nystrom (Lives in California) Lillian Fosness
1932 Clarissa Hardwick Lillian Fosness
1933 Lillian Fosness Marie Fanton
1934 Marie Fanton (Lives in Oregon) Elsie Kottke
1935 Lelia Nattress (Lives in Glendale, CA) Elva Nelson
1936 Ada Jordan Imogene Kopp
1937 Elsie Kottke (Lives in Salem, Oregon) Clarissa Hardwick
1938 Imogene Kopp (Lives in Twin Falls, Idaho) Betty Reedy
1939 Betty Reedy Marie Hofer
1940 Pauline Rodman Marie Hofer
1941 Marie Hofer Hildred Warne
1942 Elva Nelson Hildred Warne
1943 Margaret Murray (Lives in Aberdeen) Marie Rumrill
1944 Mae Becker (Lives in Pierre) Marge Knox
1945 Bernice Lemon Kitterman (Lives in Doland, SD) Marge Knox
1946 Marge Knox Imogene Kennedy
1947 Ednamae Day LaVonne Chamberlain
1948 Virginia Green Ada Jordan
1949 Marian Mikkelsen Marge Knox
1950 LaVonne Chamberlain Mildred Starbuck
1951 Mildred Starbuck Marcella Hoover
1952 Phyllis Neu Sady Nelson
1953 Marcella Hoover Marian Mikkelsen
1954 Sady Nelson Annabell Clausen
1955 Martha Walsh Annabell Clausen
1956 Lois Bartels Esther Hale
1957 Esther Hale Eileen Hofer
1958 Margaret Demery Wanda Mauree Hall
Masons
The preliminaries for the organization of a Masonic lodge in Onida began
early in 1912. A number of Masons holding membership in various jurisdictions
and residing in this vicinity, feeling the need of a Masonic order in Onida, met
pursuant to invitation in the office of C. R. Garner on Feb. 18, 1912, to
consider the feasibility of a lodge. Out of this preliminary meeting a temporary
organization was effected and named a "Masonic School". C. R. Garner was elected
president and H. A. Patterson, secretary.
Invitations were sent out to all Masons in the vicinity by order of
President Garner to meet again on February 20 for the purpose of signing an
application for a charter to organize a lodge. The meeting was held in the
office of Gropengieser and Snyder, the same office that now houses the
Gropengieser Land and Abstract Co. Those signing the application for a charter
were John Kleinschmidt, H. A. Patterson, L. E. Snyder, J. W. Morris, F. T.
Hartley, Van Ludwig, E. E. Heywood, M. B. Dunlap, Robert E. Dunlap, J, H.
Gropengieser, C. R. Garner, Dave Hall, L. A. Temmey, Daniel Adams and Alex A.
Calhoun.
Meetings were held in the Dunlap Hall, beginning in March, 1912, and
continued in that location until October 3, 1947, when the building was
purchased by the Masonic order and moved to its present site on lots owned by
the lodge.
As a result of the request for a charter, the Grand lodge of South Dakota
granted the Onida members a Dispensation under date of June 28, 1912,
authorizing the Master Masons of Onida and vicinity to meet as a lodge under the
name of "Onida lodge, U.D. (under dispensation) A.F. and A.M." The first meeting
of the lodge under dispensation was held on July 9, 1912. Regular meeting nights
were then set for the first an third Wednesdays of each month an have continued
as such to date.
The first applications for new members by initiation were received from
Harry Berg, Wilber J. Stowers, Samuel B. Stegeman and Minor Haverly.
On December 3, 1912, the lodge was; saddened by the sudden death of one of
its members, Marcus B. Dunlap. Arrangements were made for conducting funeral
services and the necessary paraphernalia was secured from the Blunt lodge.
Willis E. Johnson, of Aberdeen lodge, No. 38 presided during Onida's first
Masonic funeral on December 5, 1912.
On July 7, 1913, the Grand lodge of South Dakota, under the direction of
Grand Master 0. H. Williams, held an Emergent Communication in Onida for the
purpose of constituting Onida lodge No 173. The following members were in
stalled as officers to govern the new lodge: John Kleinschmidt, W.M.; R. E
Dunlap, S.W.; L. E. Snyder, J.W.; A A. Calhoun, S.D.; J. W. Morris, J.D.; C. R.
Garner, treasurer; J. H. Gropengieser, secretary; Van Ludwig and K.E. Heywood,
stewards, and S. B. Stegeman, tyler.
Three members have been presented gold medals for 50 years of continuous
membership. They were Wm. H. Parkin in 1945, Albert Youngberg in 1948 and B. M.
Hart in 1956.
The Onida lodge has had a steady increase in membership in spite of the
loss by deaths and members moving from this vicinity and demitting. The present
membership is now 145. Plans are in the making for a new temple to better serve
local members and the sister organization, the Eastern Star. - M. K.
Eastern Star
Wherever the Masonic lodge has an organization, the Order of the Eastern
Star is sure to follow. The order is dedicated to giving practical effect to the
beneficient objectives of Free Masonry, and true to its program, the Star came
to Onida a few short years after Masonry was established here.
Rising Sun Chapter, No. 86, of Blunt, sponsored the granting of a charter
to Onida Chapter, No. 138, on May 27, 1920. Edna Church Hart was installed as
the first worthy matron, and John J. Bauman became the worthy patron.
The charter members, in addition to Mrs. Hart and Mr. Bauman, were Kittie
McConnell, Clara Close, Carrie Garner, Wanda Nelson, Alta Huffman, Belva Bauman,
Alice Loitwood, Maud Garner, Clara Kleinschmidt, Alice Ludwig, Ona Chamberlain,
Mabel Jack, Bertram M. Hart, Edward Loitwood, C. R. Garner, John Kleinschmidt
and Van Ludwig.
The Star membership increased rapidly, and it soon became one of the
largest and most active fraternal organizations in the city.
The Eastern Star regulations provide for annual visitations to each
chapter by one of the four principal officers of the Grand Chapter, These
visitations have always been highlights of the year in Onida Chapter. At these
special meetings, there have been numerous visitors from Blunt, Highmore,
Gettysburg, Pierre, Fort Pierre and other chapters in this area.
Members of Onida Chapter have always been active in South Dakota Grand
Chapter. The most recent grand officers in Onida Chapter were Jan Lemmel, Grand
Ada, in 1957, and Marge Knox, Grand Esther, in 1948. Bessie B. Lumley was a 50-
year member during 1958.
Onida Chapter helps support the Children's Home at Mitchell, the Crippled
Children's Drive, the Eastern Star Home at Redfield which is maintained by the
Grand Chapter for their aged members, the Eastern Star Training Award for
Religious Leadership and various local projects.
[photo - Eastern Star Officers in 1951. Pictured, standing, left to right-Evelyn
(Pat) Cruthoff, Mae Ludwig, Virginia Hilton, Beulah Sutton, Mildred Sutton,
Arnold Schreiber, Bessie Schreiber, Marge Knox, Doris Vos, Janice Lemmel,
Florence Sutton and Leita Byrum. Seated, left to right-Bessie Lumley, Robert
Mikkelsen, Maynard Knox, Ardis Gatons, LaVonne Chamberlain and Hazel Buol.]
[photo - Worthy Patron Maynard Knox is shown presenting a "50-Year" pin to
Bessie Lumley at a reception held in her honor on December 19, 1957.]
At the November, 1958 election, Leita Byrum was elected worthy matron;
Robert Mikkelsen, worthy patron; Earline Lindell, associate matron; James Young,
associate patron; Opal Trythall, conductress; Jean Koenig, associate
conductress; Hazel Buol, secretary, and Jan Lemmel, treasurer. - L. B.
Onida Fire Department
In May, 1910, a committee of five was appointed to make the necessary
arrangements for organizing a volunteer fire department. The committee included
F. T. Hartley, L. D. Johnson, M. R. Jenson and George Nelson.
The fire equipment at that time consisted of a two-wheel pull cart with
reel for the hose, about 300 feet, a four-wheel surrey buggy with a platform for
ladders and a few pails. Later a chemical truck with two chemical tanks was
added.
The following year, on April 27, a meeting was called by Chairman Cole and
Secretary F. W. Johnson. Fifteen of the 23 volunteer firemen were in attendance.
J. L. Kleinschmidt was elected chief and Tom J. Dalton, assistant chief.
In September, 1912, a small building was erected on the county lots east
of the old courthouse for the purpose of housing the equipment belonging to the
fire department. A special meeting was called following the fire that destroyed
the Gropengieser home in February, 1915. The firemen realized that it was
necessary to have better organization. Chief Klienschmidt divided the members
into three groups-one for the chemical engine, one for the hose cart and the
other for the hook and ladder equipment. Kleinschmidt, Dalton and E. F.
Brunneman were named captains of the three divisions.
Meetings were held just once a year to elect officers, with special
meetings called by the chief any time during the year. On March 19, 1935, it was
voted to hold monthly meetings on the last Tuesday evening of the month, and
election of officers to be held and a financial report read at the December
meeting.
[photo - Onida Fire Department in 1958. Pictured back row, left to right-Les
Swanson, Les Ridinger, Tom Donahue, Marvin Hiller, Ed Cruthoff, Vern Palmer,
Wendell West, Joe Lamb, Orville Davis, Jack Schall, Alfred Mosiman, Paul
Kellogg, Ray Bartels and Ray Doyle. Front row, left to right-Clarence Chase,
Harold Wood, Lee Rappana, Darwin Stewart, Elmer Ripley, Robert Ramler, Clinton
Dunlap, Floyd Dolton, Joe Kub, Leo Lemmel and Everett Chenoweth. Foreground-Joe
Lamb's "shadow," Pooch.]
The first well-equipped fire truck with chemical tanks and space for
carrying hose and ladders was purchased by the City of Onida in 1931, and used
until, October, 1946, when a new truck, with a force pumping system, was
purchased. In September, 1946, a 1,000-gallon water supply truck was purchased
by rural subscription, the City of Onida and the Fire Department, for fighting
rural and prairie fires. A pumper fire truck was purchased by the county
commissioners in 1950.
The first firemen's ball was held in 1937, for the purpose of raising
funds for local and rural children's Christmas treats. This ball has been an
annual affair. Another yearly highlight is Ladies' Night, when wives of the
firemen, the mayor and his wife, city council and county commissioners and their
wives are entertained at a banquet.
In June, 1947, an inhalator and resuscitator were purchased and later left
at the Onida Hospital.
The Department now owns a city pumper truck with 400-gallon tank; a county
pumper truck equipped with a two-way radio; one 1,000 gallon water supply truck
equipped with a two-way radio and engine pump for loading, and an ambulance
fully equipped, which was acquired from the Custer Fire Department in March,
1956. This serves the entire community and has made trips to Aberdeen, Huron,
Sioux Falls, Pierre, Rapid City and Minneapolis. The Fire Hall, which is large
enough to house the three trucks and ambulance, has a two-way radio and
telephone.
The Department has donated to many worthwhile organizations and sponsored
various projects through the years, such as First Aid classes-the first one in
1935, instructed by Dr. Zeiss; another in 1952, with Dr. Rimsa, and a third
class in 1956 with Dr. Orgusaar in charge; Onida basketball team and purchased
suits in 1935; Santa Claus and treats established in 1937; baseball team and
purchased equipment in 1939 and several years later; instrumental in laying
water mains to the fair grounds in 1940; donation of $100 yearly to the
Recreational Program since 1947; Hospital Fund-$500 in 1951, $200 in 1952 and
$222 in 1953; American Legion Baseball Athletic Fund-$400, and purchased gas
masks - $500 in 1952. Also two home talent plays have been put on by members of
the organization.
All department members have been blood typed and many have given blood
whenever or wherever it has been needed.
A list of fire chiefs since 1929 follow in order: Henry Chamberlain, J. M.
Reedy, J. D. Nichols, Sig Severson, Clarence Chase, Mott Geiser, Les Swanson, H.
R. Birdsall, Conrad Huse, Ed Cruthoff and Ray Bartels.
J. M. Reedy and L. C. Ridinger received special badges for 25 years'
service with the department.
At a reorganizational meeting held early in 1958, Ray Bartels was again
named chief of the Onida Volunteer Fire Department to succeed Les Swanson, who
had served for the second time as chief for about eight years, giving freely of
his time and efforts. Other officers elected were LeRoy Rappana, first
assistant; Clarence Chase, second assistant; Dennis LaFave, secretary and
treasurer; Les Swanson and Paul Kellogg, trustees. - L. R.
[photo - Mrs. Luther Nelson, right, receiving the "Mrs. Oneidas Club" loving cup
for 1958, at the annual Ladies' Night Banquet held in December, 1957. Mrs. Earl
Baxter, left, wife of the club's president, made the presentation.]
Oneidas
The first meeting of the Oneidas Club was held on November 16, 1923,
sponsored by the Pierre Kiwanis Club. Dinner was served by the Legion Auxiliary,
and the first set of officers was elected. Dr. B. M. Hart was named president;
C. R. Garner, vice president; C. J. Crandall, secretary, and M. R. Brown,
treasurer. Trustees were L. D. Johnson, F. W. Thompson, C. L. Bates and John
Bauman. Pierre people here as sponsors were Dr. Riggs, J. E. Hipple and Judge
Polley.
Some of the early members, in addition to those already mentioned, were M.
B. Knight, Forrest Eager, W. B. Spears, Guy Rumrill, John Adams, M. H. Quimby,
Earl Hardwick, Jack Reedy and Luther Nelson. It is interesting to note that many
of the early members are still very active in the club, such as Spears,
Hardwick, Reedy and Luther Nelson. Other 25-year members include Clarence Chase,
Les Swanson, Art Owens, Maynard Knox and Art Johnson.
Several of the projects backed by the Oneidas were Sully Lake, Onida
Community Hospital, City Park, Municipal Auditorium and new school addition.
Members of the club arranged a banquet and program on March 25, 1953, in
honor of members of the athletic association-football, basketball and track,
cheerleaders and the coach, Bob Koenig, of Onida High School. Joe Mendel, former
star athlete of Onida High, was one of the speakers. For "Smokey Joe" the
occasion was more of a homecoming than a featured appearance. Many in the
audience looked back some 20 years and compared the laurels which he garnered
with those acquired by the 1953 Warriors. In recognition of outstanding
performances in basketball, the Oneidas awarded individual trophies to all team
members, Coach Koenig, the team manager, DeWitt Miles, and the cheerleaders, in
addition to the silver cup presented the Warriors as a team.
The Oneidas is the oldest, independent men's service club in the city that
can boast a continual and active operation since its organization.
The 1958 officers include Clinton Dunlap, president; Walter Becker vice
president; Supt. Joe Greenan, secretary and treasurer. Members of the new Board
of Control are Earl Baxter, Earl Kinder, Clarence Ludwig, Jack Donahue, Elliott
Byrum, Vern Palmer and Harold Wood. - C. D.
Onida Cemetery Association
Onida Cemetery Association was formed 71 years ago on April 29, 1886. The
original board consisted of Charles Agar, Reuben Norton, William Toomey, Frank
Brigham, A. Y. Denton, W. W. Small, Wallace Lilly, C. W. Holmes, W. D. Dwyer, C.
R. Drew, E. J. Lingden, L. G. Weyand, Frank Lillibridge, D. Q. Jordan, L.
Livingstone, C. B. Walker and C. R. Malleck.
The board selected the present location, had it surveyed and six members
contributed $1 each to pay the incorporation fees to the State of South Dakota.
The stockholders held a meeting at which time business matters were transacted
and officers elected. C. H. Agar was named president and J. N. Garner,
secretary. The plat consists of 650 lots or burial space for approximately 3,000
deceased. At the present time officials estimate that, through organized survey,
sufficient room is available for at least 15 years.
In May, 1902, several nice monuments were placed at the graves of Charles
H. Agar, R. M. McClure, Mrs. F. P. McCamly, Mr. and Mrs. C. K. Mallock's
daughter, and others.
In the spring of 1921, a row of elms was planted around the outer edge of
the cemetery and a beautiful iron gate was placed at the main entrance. Water
was piped to the grounds in 1925.
The main accomplishments at the fix-up and clean-up campaign held in May,
1957, were repairing and reinstalling the entrance gate, new cement approach at
main gate, two new exit gates, 8x12 cement platform in front of tool house,
roadways shaped and graveled, 48 location signs set up, four trash barrels
painted and located, and the large mound of earth in the southeast corner of the
cemetery removed.
Upon the death of Honorable Judge M. H. Quimby on December 31, 1958,
Edward Klix became acting president; Eleanor Thompson, acting secretary; Arlene
Thompson, treasurer; Howard A. Weischedel, West Sully member and Sherman Seward,
North Sully member.
Appreciative people say "The best kept cemetery in central South Dakota."
Murder Victim Was First Burial
A murder victim, Forrest S. Small, son of the Rev. O. W. Small, pastor of
the Congregational Church in Onida, was the first person buried in the cemetery
on December 4, 1884. About 1908 the monument which now marks the grave (see
photo) was said to have replaced the original marker.
All account of the incident and subsequent lynching of the alleged
murderer follows:
Bell and Small were two land attorneys at Harrold. Bell was rather
vindictive and not well liked; whereas, Small was popular and his popularity was
steadily increasing. This was the source of Bell's increasing hatred and envy of
Small.
One day Small failed to appear at his office and after several days'
absence, the mystery of his disappearance grew. At last the suspicion of foul
play began to be feared and with it was recalled the hatred and actions of Bell.
It was found that about the time of Small's disappearance, Bell had been
accompanied on one or more of his trips across the prairie by a halfwit named
Bennett. Pressure was brought to bear on Bennett and he was threatened with
prosecution unless he disclosed all that he knew. He confessed going out riding
with Bell and admitted that they had met Small up in Sully County and that Bell
had killed him with a hatchet. Bennett also conducted a party of men to the spot
where the body was found buried.
Bell was then arrested, taken to Pierre and placed in jail. While there
was little doubt that Bell would be convicted, it was a relief to the people of
both Sully and Hughes counties when one night a crowd rode into Pierre,
proceeded to the jail, secured Bell and strung him up in regular vigilante
style. No one doubted they had lynched the right man. In the courthouse yard at
Pierre a plaque now stands noting the hanging incident. - E. K.
[photo of grave stone of Forrest S. Small]
[photo - Scoutmaster Merrill and His Son, David, First Class Scout, acting as
Junior Scoutmaster.]
Boy Scouts
The organization and initiation into the work of the Boy Scouts of America
was started in Onida in June, 1917, with William Bullock as scoutmaster.
The scouts made great progress during the next few months, and in March,
1918, they presented a play, entitled, "The Making of Larry," at the Serbousek
Hall, located at the present H & H Corner. The cast included Charlie Hyde, Orval
French, Harry Lesher, Ted McGuire, James McGinis, Herbert Byrum, Dwight
Osterkamp, George Bullock, Truman Knauer, Harold Norfolk and Raymond Doyle.
Entertainment between acts included telegraph and patrol drills, supervised by
Robert Williams. The high school girls' glee club presented several numbers,
under the direction of the Misses Brown and Walker. The final number on the
program was a vocal solo by Myron Brown. The proceeds of $67 was used to help
purchase scout uniforms.
Scout activities were rather intermittent during the next few years, until
the organization finally became dormant. However, it didn't take long for
parents of the young boys to realize that scouting was an important part of
their development, so in June, of 1921, Onida Troop No. 1 was reorganized and
started active work on the scout program. Twenty-two registered members enrolled
at the time. The troop committee was composed of C. R. Garner, L. D. Johnson, A.
R. McConnell and Jesse T. Hayes, with F. I. Satterlee as scoutmaster. It was
necessary to reorganize again in 1934, with A. C. Lewis as leader. The highlight
of that year was a Jamboree held at Enemy Swim near Watertown. Those making the
trip were the two Lewis boys, Roger Keck, Burl Corcoran, John Bauman, Orville
Warriner, Don Crawford and David Hull.
In December, 1944, John Adams presented Troop No. 130 his cabin at Sully
Lake and the two lots on which it stood.
In 1950, Larry Swanson, 13, and Lyle Sutton, 13, were among the 306 South
Dakota explorers and leaders to attend the National Boy Scout Jamboree held at
Valley Forge National Park, Pennsylvania, from June 30, through July 6. Forty-
seven thousand scouts from all parts of the nation and 570 scouts and leaders
from 18 foreign countries gathered at the Park, scene of one of the bitterest
winters of the Revolutionary War, to participate in a "once-in-a-lifetime"
experience. President Truman opened the Jamboree June 30, and remained for a
two-hour inspection of the 35 sectional camps which occupied about 625 of the
2,033 acres Valley Forge Park.
Rev. Glenn Duncan, scoutmaster for the local Cub Scout Pack, reported in
February of 1951, that about 25 boys in the third, fourth and fifth grade group
were showing much enthusiasm and making wonderful progress in Pack work. The Cub
Pack was organized into three dens with Mrs. Everett Stewart, Mrs. Mason
Youngberg and Mrs. John Day as den mothers. The Cubs' winter recreational
program called for frequent outings, including bobsleighing and skating at Lake
Sully, and summer plans were for swimming, overnight camps and other seasonal
diversions.
Lyle Sutton departed for the West Coast on July 11, 1953, to attend the
Third National Boy Scout Jamboree which was held at the Irvine Ranch on the
Pacific Ocean, near Santa Ana, California. Seventy-nine Pheasant Council scouts
went from South Dakota, and 50,000 scouts tended from over the nation. President
Eisenhower opened the encampment on July 17. En route, the scouts toured such
scenic points as the Royal Gorge in Colorado, a day's tour of Salt Lake City,
Las Vagas, Hoover Dam, Los Angeles, Hollywood, San Juan Capistrano, San
Francisco, Portland and Yellowstone Park.
In reorganizing the Cub Pack at a meeting held on April 14, 1954, Winfred
Fox was named cub master and den mothers were Mrs. Vern Palmer, Mrs. N. G.
Jarnagin and Mrs. Veo Lamb. The following cubs were registered: Keith Palmer,
Roger Neu, Ronald Bartels, Charles Lamb, Dick Hyde, Thomas Merrill, Sammy
Jarnagin, Bobby Hyde, Marvin Chenoweth, Bobby Kennedy, Ray Sutton, Jim Thompson,
John Knox and Kenneth Garcia. Wm. R. Merrill was named scoutmaster of Onida
Troop 130 with Les Swanson as troop committee chairman. Other committee members
were Clarence Chase, Everett Stewzirt, Tom Donahue and John Day. Registered
scouts of the troop were Van Stewart, Leslie Carroll, Joe Day, Gary Chase, Billy
Donahue, David Merrill and Jerry Kennedy. Onida is part of the Buffalo District
of the 32-county Pheasant Council, BSA.
David Merrill and Billy Donahue joined 135 boy scouts and explorers
representing 27 communities in the 32-county Pheasant Council, in a trek to the
4th National Scout Jamboree at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, in the summer of
1957. Activities for the 50,000 scouts and explorers attending the Jamboree from
over the nation were many and varied. They camped in tents for 10 days and
nights at historic Valley Forge, took part in conservation programs, field
sports, gigantic area shows, troop and inter-troop campfires, troop and patrol
scoutcraft contests, entertainment and demonstrations conducted by various
scouts from various sections of the country.
Scouting continued to be very active during 1958, especially the Cub
scouts. Den mothers were Mrs. Robert Oshel, Mrs. Jack Donahue and Mrs. Ken Huse,
who served for a year. Then Mrs. Dale Uhl, Mrs. Bob Mikkelsen and Mrs. Charles
Hoover took over. Rev. Ridinger now has charge of the Webolos group. Robert
Oshel, cubmaster, and Mrs. Oshel received certificates for completing a Cub
Leaders Training Course.
[photo - Scouts En Route to Lake Iyataka in 1955. Pictured left to right-Joe
Day, Gary Chase, Brian Wood, Roger Lomheim, David Merrill, Keith Palmer, Billy
Donahue, Tom Merrill and Scoutmaster William Merrill.]
Chamber of Commerce
Though the functions of the official organization of Onida businessmen
remained the same through the years, when it was first inaugurated on July 25,
1910, it was called the Commercial Club.
The civic group was very active through the years, promoting numerous
projects which were beneficial to this community. Activities and interest in the
club faded during the late thirties and forties, setting the stage for the
rebirth of the organization on January 3, 1951. This time it was called the
Onida Chamber of Commerce.
Charter members of the original Commercial Club were: C. R. Garner, T. L.
Mitchell, M. J. Haverly, J. N. Garner, Will Spencer, Otis E. French, F. W.
Johnson, Thos. J. Dalton, M. G. Tyler, J. E. Temmey, A. H. Gagsletter, Fred G.
Johnson, A. F. Blowith, H. D. Yeager, E. E. Brooking, Ernest E. Brooking, M. R.
Jenison and M. H. Quimby. The membership fee was one dollar.
The Chamber of Commerce, in 1951, had as its first officers, Cecil
Hortman, president, and John F. Schaeffer, secretary-treasurer. The board of
directors consisted of John Day, L. C. Ridinger, Robert Mikkelsen, M. Lewis and
G. Phares.
Some of the major projects of the Commercial Club were soliciting funds
for Y. M. C. A. and second Liberty Bond campaign, both of which were countywide
ventures; encouraging construction of a city hall, and bonding the city to take
over and improve power plant facilities here. The latter was accomplished in
1919.
In later years, and after the group was reorganized as the Chamber of
Commerce, activities predominantly encouraged the city's growth, new businesses
and good will.
The 1958 officers for the Chamber of Commerce were Ed Cruthoff, president;
Les Swanson, vice president, and John Day, secretary-treasurer.
[photo - Lori and Larry Yackley, twin daughter and son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard
Yackley, were each presented a high chair by the Hospital Auxiliary.]
Hospital Auxiliary
A group of ladies met in the Presbyterian Church basement on January 18,
1952, for the purpose of organizing a Hospital Auxiliary. The Onida Hospital
Board appointed Mrs. John Schaeffer president and W. G. Abbott, treasurer. There
was a total of forty charter members. The enthusiastic members worked hard on
their fund-raising projects, which included a parcel post sale, bazaar, baked
sales, benefit dance, lunches served at farm sales, benefit rodeo at Blunt,
serving the Oneida Club banquet and traveling baskets.
Numerous gifts were purchase for the first baby born in the new hospital
the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bob Kleinschmidt of Harrold, South Dakota.
A total of $3,208.23 was paid out for hospital purposes, which included
two payments on hospital equipment, the purchase of an incubator and electric
clothes dryer in addition to linens, bedding, curtains, gowns, dishes and
silverware.
A farewell party was held in May, 1954, in honor of Dr. and Mrs. Alfreds
Rimsa, who left for Los Angeles, California.
Selling stationery was the main money-making project for 1955. Other
projects were the purchase of a waxer and polisher and tile for the downstairs
floor, blood typing, serving lunch at the co-operative banquet, hospital road
signs erected and high chairs purchased for Lori and Larry Yackley, the first
twins born in the hospital.
The highlight for 1957 was the Fourth of July barbecue, when approximately
650 people were served. Following was a tug-o-war between the Agar and Onida
fire departments. Agar was victorious. Dancing in the evening climaxed the day's
activities.
The Auxiliary again sponsored the Fourth of July celebration and barbecue
in 1958. The newly organized Jaycees, Oneidans, firemen and sportsmen took over
the entertainment for the evening and also supplied the fireworks.
The 1958 officers were Mrs. Eli Pullman, president; Mrs. Wayne Nelson,
secretary, and Mrs. Les Swanson, treasurer.
Junior Chamber of Commerce
[photo - Governor Joe Foss, left, is shown offering his congratulations to
Melvin Johnson, center, first president of the Onida Jaycees. Tom Mahan, state
Jaycee president, at right.]
It was largely due to the efforts of Wes Beaman, of Selby, that the Onida
Chapter of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, or Jaycees, received its Charter of
Organization on March 15, 1958, from Tom Mahan, president of the South Dakota
Jaycees at that time. Previous to that date the young men from Onida and
community had met with the Jaycees from Selby and approved a constitution and
by-laws. The following officers and directors were elected as the governing
body: Melvin Johnson, president; Albin Stahl, first vice president; James
Sutton, Jr. second vice president; Sheldon Bright, secretary; Johnny Gross,
treasurer. Larry Venner, Elliott Byrum, Jerome Yackley and Darryl Hofer were
named directors.
The Jaycees is an organization of young men between the ages of 21 and 35,
inclusive, who wish to direct their combined energies to community betterment
and public service.
In Onida, the Jaycees conducted a fund drive for a lighted ball field,
provided trash receptacles on Main Street and developed a parking lot for
shoppers among other worthwhile endeavors.
The Onida Chapter is a member of the United States Junior Chamber and the Junior
Chamber International, providing the opportunity for young men to promote the
nation's prosperity, as well as human understanding throughout the world.
Nearly 300 local Jaycees, guests and local residents attended the Jaycee
Charter Night Banquet. The newly-organized group, with a charter membership of
62, was given a tremendous send-off by Governor Joe Foss. - M. J.
Jaycettes
The Onida Jayeettes became an organized chapter in April of 1958, when 16
ladies from the Selby Jaycettes visited Onida to assist prospective members in
organizing.
The Jaycette business year ends and begins anew with the State Convention,
which is held in May. The first set of officers were Mrs. Elliott Byrum,
president; Mrs. Theo Kiker, vice president; Mrs. Darryl Hofer, secretary; Mrs.
Melvin Johnson, treasurer, and Mrs. Lyle Sutton, corresponding secretary.
The Board of Directors includes the above-named officers and four
directors -Mrs. Dick Matzen, Mrs. Albin Stahl, Mrs. George Westland and Mrs.
Darwin Stewart.
There is but one requirement for a woman to join the Jaycettes, and that
is for her husband to be a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce (Jaycees).
As stated in the constitution, the purpose of the Onida Jaycettes is "to
cooperate with the Onida Junior Chamber of Commerce in advancing its program of
usefulness in the city, state and nation; and to promote civic and social
activities for the wives of members of the Onida Junior Chamber of Commerce."
Some of the projects which the Onida Jaycettes completed during their
first year were preparing and serving the annual eighth grade banquet, serving
the firemen's ladies night banquet, holding two bake sales, two rummage sales, a
Christmas toy raffle and providing assistance to the Jaycees in many of their
projects.
The first year of Jaycette work was certainly very interesting, and
somewhat challenging to the 18 members.The "Outstanding Jaycette of the Year
Award," which is the highest honor given to member on the local level, was
received the first year by Mrs. Darryl Hofer, who was chosen by vote of the
members. Onida Jaycettes were successful in their first year's enterprises,
proving their organization to be of benefit and service to the community. - P.
H.
Ladies Interdenominational Bible Study
A group of ladies met in the Onida Methodist Church basement in June, 195
for the purpose of organizing an interdenominational fellowship of ladies who
were desirous of meeting together for Bible study, prayer and fellowship.
A non-denominational Bible Study workbook has been used to guide the group
in studying the Bible passages and looking up cross-reference scriptures.
The organization has a membership of about 30 ladies. Mrs. Basil Todd was
the 1958 chairman. Others who have served in this capacity were Mrs. Eli
Pullman, Mrs. Robert Frescoln, Mrs. C. Strickland and Mrs. Melvin Currier. - N.
C.
Onida Garden Club
[photo - Onida Garden Club Members, taken at the Rose Tea and Flower Show on
June 2 , 1958. Pictured, left to right-Mesdames Francis Ryan, William Buol,
Bessie Lumley, Claren Culey, Garrett Reynolds, Corydon Ludwig, G. T. Westphal,
Walter Ripley, Gertrude Snell, Donald Campbell, George Day, Max Rodman, E. L.
Thompson, Axel Mikkelsen and Clarence Lomheim.]
A group of ladies interested in flower gardening met at the home of Mrs.
Francis Ryan in April of 1954, for the purpose of organizing a garden club. Mrs.
Ryan was named president; Mrs. Max Rodman, vice president; Gertrude Snell,
secretary and treasurer, and Mrs. Clarence Culey, reporter. Onida Garden Club
was the name chosen for the organization and it was voted to have a membership
of 16.
Monthly meetings are held on the second Monday, 10 months of the year. The
November meeting is an annual pot hick dinner, usually held at the home of the
current president, with Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Thomsen, from the Pierre Greenhouse
as guests. In 1958 the dinner was held at the home of Mrs. Corydon Ludwig.
The annual flower show and tea has been held in June. In 1954, it was a
tulip tea and since that time, a rose tea, as the rose was chosen the club
flower.
Each fall, the club has a flower booth at the Sully County Fair.
The purpose of the club is to promote better flower gardening in Onida.
[photo - A Group of P.T.A. Charter Members in 1947. Pictured back row, left to
right--Jack Reedy, Maynard Knox, Clarence Chase, Lee Rappana, Francis Ryan,
Coach Carl Nyman and Supt. Amos Tschetter. Middle row, left to right-Two
unidentified, Mrs. L. C. Ridinger, Mrs. Knox, Mrs. Ed Cruthoff and Mrs. Ryan.
Front row, left to right-Mrs. Mason Youngberg; Mrs. Chase, vice chairman; Mrs.
Corydon Ludwig, secretary; Mrs. Rappana; Mrs. Harold Martin, treasurer; Mrs.
Minnie Zimmer, and Mrs. John Sutton, chairman.]
Parent-Teacher Association
The Parent-Teacher Association should have a special place in the annals
Of South Dakota history because of one person responsible for its origin. She
was Mrs. Pheobe Hearst, of the Hearst family, who helped develop Homestake Mines
in the Black Hills.
The first PTA organization was formed in Sidney, Iowa, in January, 1910,
and is now national in scope. It is an educational organization that unites the
forces of home, school and community in behalf of children and youth. Its
Objects are to promote the welfare of children and youth in home, school, church
and community; to raise the standards of home life; to secure adequate laws for
the care and protection of children and youth; to bring into closer relation the
home and the school, that parents and teachers may cooperate intelligently in
the training of the child, and to develop between educators and the general
public such united efforts as will secure for every child the highest advantages
in physical, mental, social and spiritual education.
Onida's first PTA organization dates back to October 24, 1921, when about
30 patrons and teachers of the schools met in the commercial club rooms for the
purpose of organizing a local association. F. W. Johnson was elected president;
Mrs. A. R. McConnell, vice president, and Constance Noste, secretary. C. H.
Gall, Mrs. B. M. Hart, Mrs. C. L. Bates, Miss Nelle Young and Supt. F. I.
Satterlee were named a standing committee to be responsible for the programs.
This organization, however, failed to function.
On April 21, 1947, a large and interested group of school patrons and
teachers was on hand at the High School Auditorium for a second organizational
meeting. Supt. Amos Tschetter acted as temporary chairman and Francis Ryan
presided as parliamentarian, with Mrs. Corydon Ludwig as temporary secretary.
Election of officers was held to head the group for its first year. They
were Mrs. John Sutton, chairman; Mrs. Clarence Chase, vice chairman; Mrs.
Corydon Ludwig, secretary, and Mrs. Harold Martin, treasurer. Mrs. Ralph Ludwig,
Mrs. L. C. Ridinger and Mrs. B. S. Williams were appointed as a standing
membership committee. There were 43 charter members and as this history closes
in 1958, there are 140 paid members. Monthly meetings are held on the third
Monday of the month during the school year.
Programs are planned by the program chairman and the executive committee.
They include local talent such as singing groups, soloists, readings, plays,
panel discussions and open house when the parents view the work of art in the
grade school. Out-of-town speakers are often included in the programs. The
Christmas program, held in December, is a highlight of the winter meetings when
students from both the grade school and high school participate in a musical
production under the direction of the teachers.
Officers for the current year are Mrs. Earl Kinder, president; Mrs. Paul
Kellogg, first vice president; Mrs. James Young, second vice president; Mrs.
Walter Becker, secretary, and Mrs. Clinton Dunlap, treasurer. Mrs. Ed Cruthoff
is president of District Two, South Dakota Congress of Parents and Teachers.
[photo - P.T.A. Style Show Entertaining at Mother-Daughter Tea in 1955.
Pictured, left to right-Mrs. Ray Doyle, Mrs. Clarence Chase, Mrs. John Day, Mrs.
Leo Lemmel, Mrs. Everett Stewart and Mrs. Glenn Wood.]
[photo - Addie J. Williamson]
"OWED" TO ONIDA
(by one who owes her a debt of gratitude)
Onida-town, dear old home town
Fair city of the plain;
What well-remembered scenes of thee
Bestrew fond memorie's lane.
"HOME, SWEET HOME, childhood's happy home"
"School days, school days, dear old golden rule days"
Boy-and girl-friendships and teacher ones too
Many to last a whole lifetime through.
Church life and work
Cantata and choir
Striving to lift hopes and ideals higher.
Young folks and old folks, to know to love,
Truly such gifts are sent from above.
Ah, well-time is too short
There remains but to ask
God's care for you all
And strength for each task.
Onida-town, dear old home town
"God shed His grace on Thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood"
Through all the years that be.
Note: Thanks to Katherin Lee Bates, and one or two other real poets, for the
beauty of their thought and expression which have contributed to these lines.
With kindest regards to you all -
Always your friend,
Addie Jordan Williams