PRINT SHOP MUSEUM
SHOPTALK: The painting of the exterior of the print shop museum is done (for now). The windows still need work, and will for some time to come. But we’re further along now than I’d anticipated just 12 months back.
Much of the thanks for this belongs to my late brother, Al, who, for whatever reason, endowed me with some of the funds used to accomplish most of these improvements. Though we did acquire a block grant from the City of Vermilion that helped pay for half the costs of renovating the back porch and the rewiring of the apartment, I would not really have been in a financial position to acquire that grant nor make any other big improvements were it not for him.
Thanks Albert. And thank God.
QUOTE FROM “THE UNQUIET”: I just finished reading another detective thriller by author John Connolly the other day. As I believe I have previously mentioned Connolley’s novels tend to be a tad convoluted. There’s always a great deal of detail in them that seems, in some ways, unnecessary.
But setting that aside I came across a passage in the aforementioned book that just cracked me up:
”We took our seats at the dinner table. I was between Harmon’s girlfriend, whose name was Nyoko, and the collage artist. The artist had green streaks through her blond hair, and was attractive in a willowy, vaguely disturbing way. She looked like the kind of girl who had wrist-slashing potential, and not just her own wrists either. She told me her name was Summer.”
”Summer,” I said. “Really?”
She scowled. I had barely sat down, and already someone was unhappy.
”It’s my true name,” she said. “My given name was an imposition. Discarding it in favor of my real identity freed me to pursue my art.”
Uh-huh,” I said. Flake.
And I was set to howling.
I don’t get out much.
WAITING FOR THE DUST TO SETTLE: Work in the museum apartment is progressing. The drywall is up and finished in three of the rooms. Now we need to do some patchwork on the remaining plaster walls.
The electrician will come back toward the end of next week and finish installing outlets, switches, and fixtures.
Afterward we’ll need to paint and reinstall the oak woodwork. Then we’ll have to tend to some of the plumbing so we can start a real cleanup, and see where we are. There’s a great deal to be done.
But for now we’ll just wait until the dust settles. As one can see that’s the work fro which I’m best suited.
FIVE-OH-ONE-CEE-THREE: It’s now official. The museum is officially a 501(c)(3) organization. Consequently, all donations to the museum are tax deductible. This is retroactive to November of 2011. (Thank heaven. Now I can fret about something else for months on end.)
VISITING HOURS: We are located at 727 Grand Street in Vermilion across the street from Vermilion's historic E&R Church. The museum is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays from 1 to 4 PM. On Saturday the museum it is open from 11 AM to 2 PM. A small admission donation of $3 (for adults) is requested. Children under the age of 11 will be admitted for free. Phone For Special Tours: 440-967-4555
We are not open on major holidays.
POST OFFICE BOX: Please note that the MUSEUM has a post office box now. Now we won’t have to use our home address, nor the one at the shop for mail.
MEMBERSHIPS: Memberships to the VERMILION NEWS PRINT SHOP MUSEUM are now available. Funds generated will go toward the aforementioned renovations and maintenance of the shop.
If you would like to become a member the VNPSM you can send a check or money order to:
Vermilion Print Shop Museum727 Grand Street Vermilion, Ohio 44089
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK:Take the time to visit us on Facebook. Click on the badge below and stop in. We'll keep adding pix as we go along. If you're in the area come on in. I try to be there in the a.m. most everyday. If you see a Chevy Silverado in the drive with the plate "MRCOOKR" stop by and see what's cooking.
Historically,
FROM HI-TIMES - 1937
CLASSMATES: My sister, Nancy, brought this to my attention earlier this week or I very likely would not have noticed. She sent me something I’d placed in a previous edition of “VV” with a note reminding me that two of the girls in this particular class of Vermilion school students had passed away this week.
Louise "Midge" Walton Northouse (nee Schisler), 90, died Wednesday, August 7, 2013. And Evelyn “Nuggie” Cook (nee Hayes),89, died Monday, August 12, 2013.
Those pictured in this 1937 8th Grade Class at Vermilion’s South Street School are:
BACK L-R: E. Kubishke, M. Knott, B. Szekely, F. Peasley, M. Klucas, D. Schroeder, M. Klucas, L. Sylvester, J. Becker, N. Ferber, T. Washburn, M. Deleonardis, M. Turza. FRONT L-R: P. Hodgson, F. Moes, L. Schisler, E. Hayes, M. Kerekes, M. Barnes, E. Weiler, K. Boone, B. Grisel.
FRONT L-R: P. Hodgson, F. Moes, L. Schisler, E. Hayes, M. Kerekes, M. Barnes, E. Weiler, K. Boone, B. Grisel.
My wife and I were preparing to do an oral interview with “Midge”. Her niece, Candy Schisler Fischer, was trying to arrange it. I’m sorry we missed the opportunity. However, we did record an interview with “Nuggie” several years ago in Exchange Park.
I, along with many others, also knew Emma Kubishke (nee Kubishke) and Dorothy Koontz (nee Schroeder) very well. This was (at least for me) an extraordinary class of Vermilion kids. And there together – right in the middle of this pic – are “Midge” and “Nuggie”.
Classmates.
LAKE SIDING #38: In the first VPJ issue of 2004 (01-08-2004) Yesteryear featured a story about the crash of Lake Shore Electric Car #152 that occurred just west of Vermilion almost a century ago. Three people received fatal injuries, and numerous people were seriously hurt when the westbound Niles car collided head-on with an east-bound car near an area we now commonly recognize as Sherod Park.
The motorman, Wilbur D. Moody of Beach Park (i.e. Avon Lake), had earlier in the day been issued written instructions to pull over on Siding 38 just west of town to allow the eastbound Local 46 to pass on the single track. The specific reason the seasoned motorman failed to heed those instructions will never be known because he became one of the first crash victims. He was either thrown or jumped from the car at the time of impact and he apparently struck a pole beside the track.
Two extenuating factors that might have figured into the accident are the weather, and the overcrowded conditions in the Niles passenger car. It was a stormy and extremely humid August afternoon. By the time Moody reached Vermilion the car was running at capacity (54 passengers). At the Linwood/Crystal Beach Park station he picked up 42 additional passengers. Most had attended a special camp at Linwood and were headed home to Lima, Ohio.
One might safely assume that not only were conditions outside the car less than admirable, but also that conditions inside were extremely hot, humid, and loud. It is, therefore, of little surprise that Moody did not respond to the Conductor's warning bell when he (the Conductor) noted that they had passed the siding. Nor is it much of a surprise that the Conductor was unable to make his way from the back of the train to the Motorman at the front to give a verbal warning because of the crowd.
In the accompanying photo LSE Car #166 (built by the Jewett Company in 1912) bound for Lima waits on the siding known as Lake Siding #38 for an eastbound train to pass. This is the place where the Niles Car #152 should have stopped and waited some 30 years earlier. Both the Motorman and the Conductor are visible in the windows of the train.
The siding appears to be just west of Edson Creek in the area now occupied by the 4-lane part of Lake Road (Route 6) that begins at Decatur Street and ends at Kyle Motors. Looking back down the track to the east the large houses on both the northeast and northwest corners of Liberty and Decatur Streets are plainly visible. Just over the tree line the water tower in Hanover Square watches over the village.
As a footnote to the terrible crash in 1906 one might be interested to know that while the Niles #152 was splintered (it was made of wood) pretty badly in the aforementioned mishap it was eventually rebuilt at the Fremont, Ohio shop and put back into service.
And not too long after this photo graph was taken the entire LSE system went the way of the Pony Express. All that is left are pictures such as these and a few cars scattered across Ohio's landscape.
AGAIN - ANOTHER NEW (NOW OLD) THING: Initially I said that "This will not take the place of the "Macabre" stuff all the time - but will supplement whilst I search for more macabre stories to tell." But methinks that it's carved out a niche for itself and the "Macabre stuff" with have to find another.
So stay tuned...
Vol. IX - NO.13 – Sept 7, 1905.
The L.Y.C. race from Rocky River to Vermilion was a severe trial for some of the yachts.
The breeze was fair when the fleet started but soon began to freshen and changed into a head wind. The smaller open boats put back to the river but the other yachts kept on until off Lorain where several withdrew and ran into that harbor Rooster ** when off Avon Point lost apportion of its mast and had to be taken back to Rocky River.
Only three of the racers reached Vermilion, The 18-footers, Malillian and Winina and the 30-footer – Gardiner.
The Mona also came in having left port Saturday night and after spending the night on the trip arrived late Sunday afternoon.
Labor Day the usual number o yachts did not put in an appearance being unable to reach Vermilion in time for the race.
At 1:30 the starting gun was fired and the boats crossed the line. The only ones starting were Mona, Gardiner, Malillian and Meteor. The Winina did not race on account of split mainsail
The course was three miles windward and return sailed over twice.
The outer stake boat had not been reached when the Mona was disabled by the breaking of a hook holding a block of the throat halyards, and was out of the race. The contest was then between the Malillian and Gardiner. Although the Gardiner crossed the finishing line first, the Malillian won by time allowance. The judges decided not to continue the race on account of the stormy outlook.
During the race both the Gardiner and Malillian struck rocks near the shore and the former is leaking badly.
During the afternoon and evening the yachtsmen were entertained at the home of Com. Wakefield.
Mrs. P.J. Miller and daughter Ella were out driving Monday afternoon and when about to cross the L.S.E. track, saw a car approaching and stopped to let it pass. The car whistled when very near them and frightened the horse and it started. The car struck the back of the buggy throwing its occupants out reducing the vehicle to kindlings [sic].
Mrs. Miller was bruised but her daughter was uninjured.
Mr. Ackerman and family kindly cared for them and loaned them a buggy in which to go home, also picking up the wreck.
The car was running at a high rate of speed.
Chas. Martin lost 14 sheep Monday night. They managed to get on the L.S.E. track and were struck by the 8 o’clock car. Several were killed outright and the others were badly injured and were killed to put them out of their misery.
For some time a young man has been wandering around Vermilion apparently in a demented condition. The matter was brought to the notice of the authorities and he was taken into custody by Marshal Delker. Later he was taken to the infirmary where he was given a bath and clean clothes.
It is supposed he is a Slav but who he is or where he came from is a mystery. He is apparently 17 or 18 years old and not used to being clean as he went to bed at the infirmary with his clothes on.
Uniform examination questions for county teachers’ examination for Teacher’s Elementary School Certificated, prepared under the direction of the state school commissioner, and sent out from his office in accordance with section 4071a of the new school code.
Add a quotation of one stanza of poetry to the manuscript on orthography. Examiners will grade writing of the manuscript in orthography.
1. Name studies that are important in cultivating the perceptive faculties; the reasoning faculties. Give your reasons. 2. Mention three proper and two improper incentives to educational activity. 3.What is meant by “arrested development”? Mention some of its possible causes and tell how it should be treated by the teacher. 4. State five conditions that contribute to a well-ordered school. 5. Explain clearly your idea of a well ventilated, well heated and well lighted school room.
1. Distinguish between instruction and education. 2. When may teaching be characterized as a trade? 3. How do pupils acquire the art of study?
1. Why does Oppenheim advise familiarity with a variety of occupations, acquaintance with different classes of people, etc? 2. Does physical activity precede or follow its corresponding emotion? What benefits are to be derived from correct understanding upon this point? 3. Is the development of character influenced by the nature of occupation? 4. What are the great central forces of mental life?
[VV Ed. Note: This teacher examination questions are just a few of many asked of those persons seeking to acquire a teaching certificate in 1905. They don’t get easier.]
The thirteen months old son of Alfred Fleming was buried last Sunday, funeral was held at the Mission church.
The school east of here began Wednesday. The Birmingham school begins the 11th. Mr. Hale superintendent, Mr. Clayton Waltman, primary teacher.
Mr. Denison, who purchased the Wood farm, has given up the property and gone back east.
Rev. J.A. Sprunger of the Orphan’s Home is holding services at the old M.E. Church. They are attended mostly by Christian Scientists.
At 3:47 o’clock on the afternoon of Sept. 5,’05, Portsmouth, N.H. became famous as the town in which the treaty was signed ending the bloodiest war of modern times – The Russ-Japanese. The signing of this treaty also places Pres. Roosevelt among the greatest men of the world for having been the means of bringing the war to a close.
Short, the Picture man will remain in Vermilion one more Sunday. 28 Photos 25c., 4 positions.
D. Driscoll brought the Gas Boat Columbus into Vermilion Labor Day. She is a large boat for gas and has the appearance of a houseboat. The nickname of photograph gallery was immediately given it. It is owned by a Columbus club.
Miss Lucile Rocky of Wooster, O. is suffering from an attack of typhoid fever at the home of H.B. Kishman. She was on her way home from a visit in Canada. Her mother arrived Tuesday to assist in caring for her.
For Sale – Stove, good as new, burns soft coal or wood, nicely nickel plated, steel fire pot, good size, no better heater made. Inquire of J.H. Burns, Lighthouse Keeper, Vermilion.
The fishermen are all expected home with their boats today.
W. Showalter and wife moved into the new house recently erected by B.F. Pelton this week.
Dr. Quigley left last week for a visit with relatives in Portland, Ore.
The little son of Geo Krapp is having a severe experience with a broken collarbone.
Anson Pease has purchased a place in Michigan and expects to move there soon.
Positively the last dance of the season at Shadduck’s Par pavilion Saturday night, Sept. 9.
Large quantities of peaches are b eing shipped from here. Also apples and other fruit.
Miss Ethel and Ada Brooks and Mr. Samuel Lingelbach spent Labor Day at Cedar Point and Johnson’s Island.
Master Vernon Thompson accompanied his uncle and aunt Mr. and Mrs. Geo Werner to their home in Chicago Jct. yesterday. [VV Ed. Note: In 1917 Chicago Junction, Ohio changed its named to Willard.]
Simeon Clark Kane, for many years a resident of Vermilion, died in Cleveland yesterday at the age of 61 years. He was a member of the G.A.R. and a carpenter contractor.
The case of Ackerman vs. the L.S.& M.S. Ry. Co. was tried in justice court today. Plaintiff asked $50 damage for stacks of clover and meadow damaged by fire. He was given $36.75.
Married – At the M.E. parsonage on Wednesday, Aug. 30, 1905, Mr. Otto Haneisen of Elyria, O. and Miss Mayme Shaffer of Birmingham, O. Rev. A.G. Rupert officiating.
Cholera has broken out in Prussia.
John D. Rockefeller has purchased a wig to cover that bald spot on top of his head.
It is said that the biggest coal strike in history is sure to come soon, 150,000 miners will be called out.
The ten-year sentence imposed upon Mrs. Cassie L. Chadwick by Judge Taylor will be tested in the United States Court of Appeals at Columbus Oct. 8th.
The game wardens will in the future use high power gasoline launches for patrolling the fishing grounds. The Oliver H Perry which as been used by them, will be turned over to the United States Fish hatchery at Put-in-Bay to be used in gathering, spawn for the hatchery.
Mr. and Mrs. White and an automobile went over the cliff at Rocky River Saturday night. Mrs. White was caught between two trees on a ledge some 50 ft. down and her husband on another ledge several feet lower. Both were seriously injured. The machine fell into the river and was a total wreck.
Sheriff Sailsbury, of Lorain co. and deputies were kept busy last week trying to run down Pete Pitts, an insane farmhand, of Beach Park. Pitts, after burning one house, firing over fifty shots, none of which took affect, and keeping the residents of that little burg in a state of extreme terror for seven days, ended his miserable existence Saturday night by flowing his brains out.
Wm. Bachman, a well-to-do farmer residing at Union corners, about six miles south of Sandusky, shot his wife and the committed suicide by jumping into a well, last week. The couple had quarreled frequently of late, the husband being jealous of Wm. Ackerman, an employee. It is said Mrs. Bachman and Ackerman were to leave the home in a few days. The deed was committed in the presence of the couple’s three small children.
Suit has been commenced in the court off common pleas by the village of Vermilion against the Lake Shore electric Railway co. The petition alleges that an ordinance was passed by the village council on Sept. 3, 190; amended Nov. 6, 1901, and again amended on Nov. 18, 1901, which granted the defendant company the right of way of Water and Liberty streets upon certain conditions, among others that the railway company would probably grade the streets, relay walks, construct sewers make repairs to streets, etc.
The petition further relates the alleged fact that the defendant company did not complete said work within the time specified and the plaintiff has expended $589.65 in relaying walks, constructing sewers making repairs to streets and furnishing material. The defendants have thus far paid the village $201.45, this by order of the court, but the balance of $388.20 it refuses to pay.
The second cause for action is based on the alleged violation of an ordinance passed by the village council July 20, 1903, requiring the Lake Shore Electric Railway Co. to properly light the crossings on its right of way. This ordinance was duly published and the company notified, but he latter has neglected to light the crossings as required. As a result the village has been compelled to light them at its own expense, the cost being $8.50 per month per light. A total of $212.50, representing the amount alleged due since the ordinance became effective, is sought.
The plaintiff village wants judgement for these amounts with interest at 6 per cent.
Henry Hart represents the plaintiff.
Linwood Park closes Sept. 14 after a most prosperous season. Some of the largest picnics held here in several years have been here this year and an unusually large number of Sunday Schools have found it an attractive place.
Hmmmmmm....
IF THIS BUILDING COULD TALK: Many folks who came of age in Vermilion during most of the 20th century had a working relationship with the building in the picture.
The original property was sold by Eli S. Barnum; Judge Barnum was also instrumental in the creation of the first church in Vermilion, which eventually became the First Congregational: George G. Baker & Nathan G. Sherman as trustees for proprietors of Vermilion Township on April 1, 1840.
A Masonic Lodge building was built on the site in 1868, and destroyed by fire in 1870.
Gaylord & Merrill built the existing building in 1870. The building housed many businesses including the post office, the Goodsell Company, Davis Bros. Dry Goods, the Wagner Shoe Shop and the Miller/Wagner Saloons.
In June of 1920 Albert H. Hart bought the property from John E. Stang of Sandusky, Ohio. It was known as the Warner property and identified as lots 72-73 & 74. The warranty deed is dated November 3, 1920.
Albert H. Hart, an enterprising pharmacist, went into business on August 2, 1912 when he purchased a store located in the Krapp and Goodsell Building (where Lee’s Landing is today). He then purchased the building on the north west corner of Liberty & Main streets, put in a central heating system, took out a wall in the center of the room, and rebuilt the storefront, When the building was ready, he moved his drug store to that site.
The second floor has been occupied by various organizations and businesses: The Masonic Lodge, the Vermilion Boat Club, and from November of 1950 to October of 1981 Dr. Norman T. Andersen, DDS occupied the front rooms for his dental practice. A lady by the name of Mitzi Braun had a beauty shop at the north end of the building, and the R.E. Warner Engineering Co. had its start in rooms that were later occupied by Louis Stoffel, CPA.
Albert “Jim” Hart, following the foot steps of his father, also became a pharmacist, and after his service in W.W. II took over operation and ownership of the drug store. Jim, aside from being a very kind and generous man, was also an astute businessman. Ergo, the store prospered under his direction.
About 20 years ago Mr. Hart sold his business to the Higgins family who owned several drugstores in the area. Because of the very vocal concerns of local residents, the store’s soda fountain had to be, and was, preserved. This fountain, by and large, is the very reason so many Vermilionites own a “working relationship” with the store. It was a popular work and gathering place for, literally, hundreds of young Vermilionites. And only heaven knows how many marriages came of those relationships.
Near the turn of the 21st century local businessman, Dan Roth purchased the building, the Higgins Pharmacy left, and the building became the home of the Main Street Soda Grill.
This picture of the Davis Bros. Dry Goods Store is probably 100 years old. Although the town that eventually grew around it went through often dramatic changes, the building remains essentially the same. And it is, for all purposes, as much a familiar landmark in town as the old water tower. Its presence, alone, says (be it silently) a great deal about the community that was, and is, Vermilion, Ohio.
THE FIRE-LANDS: I found the following information re: the early inhabitants of our area to be extremely informative. Methinks you will also.
I am getting better at transcribing these passages so there are fewer mistakes. But I like to read as I go - and sometimes I fill in the blanks. So tread carefully this trail through yesteryear.
The following series will take thee to the townships south of Vermilion. Methinks you'll find this history quite fascinating.
Eight years subsequent (1848), the Sandusky and Mansfield Railroad having been completed through the township, Horatio N. Owen built a store and warehouse on the railroad, at the point now known as Havana. He began the mercantile and produce business, and continued in the business many years. It is believed the township owes much of its present prosperity to the opening of business at Havana. This village is situated about half a mile from the northeast corner of the township. It is seventy-six feet and one-third above Monroeville station, and two hundred and twenty-three feet and one-half above the lake level at Sandusky bay. The business at this point not before mentioned, is as follows: General merchandise—-F. Van Horn and Dailey Brothers; groceries—F. Zoll, Mrs. Bowman and J. Amend; millinery—Mrs. White; boots and shoes —F. Fernice, M. Slaughter and Felix Zoll; harness shop—Jacob Amend; furniture and undertaking—Gotlieb Bitzer; wagon maker—Calvin Coil; blacksmiths—John Bechtel, William Jenkins and Jacob Kroup.
four miles south of Havana, received its name from the railroad company, in consequence of its being the central station between Sandusky City and Mansfield. It is seventy-one feet and one-half above Havana, and two hundred and ninety-five feet above Lake Erie. The business interest at Centerton is represented by A. Gage, dry goods and notions. Mr. Gage is also an extensive dealer in staves; W. S. Van Horn, groceries and crockery; A. F. Sweatland, tinware and stoves. James Wurst is the village blacksmith.
Norwich was attached to Greenfield township in 1818, and, in the year following, Naum Gilson was elected supervisor for the township. He was the first sworn official. In 1820, the township of Sherman was organized, with Norwich attached. The April election was held at the house of Captain Hanford, in Sherman. The Norwich men, feeling dissatisfied at being required to go so far to election, rallied their forces, outnumbered the Sherman voters, and elected two trustees and the township clerk, in Norwich; Beckwith and Medad Woodruff were the trustees, and Jesse Woodruff, clerk. The next election was held lit the house of Alvin Blodgett, in Norwich. A compromise was then effected, and the elections were afterwards held at the house of Burwell Fitch, in Sherman. In 1820, Russell Woodruff, of Norwich, was elected justice of the peace, and 'tis said he served the entire term of office (three 3 years) without issuing a single process. In 1828, Asa Gilson was elected to the office of justice of the peace. He did not qualify. From that time until 1831, the office was vacant. In this year, Calvin Powell was elected. He was succeeded, in 1834, by William Robinson, who served until 1849. In 1857, Wesley Robinson was elected, and is still in office. L. W. Benham is also a justice of the peace in the township.
In 1827, Norwich was detached from Sherman and organized as a separate township. The first election, held in April of that year, was at the log schoolhouse near the former residence of George H. Woodruff, and for many years were held there. The qualified electors at this election were: Asa Gilson, Augustus Cook, Medad Woodruff, Naum Gilson, Joseph Read, Russell Woodruff, Wilder Lawrence and G. H. Woodruff. The officers elected on the occasion, so far as we are able to ascertain their names, were: Augustus Cook, clerk; Wilder Lawrence, Asa Gilson and Russell Woodruff, trustees. The only strife at this election, was over the election of a supervisor, there being but one in the entire township. Joseph Read and Wilder Lawrence each received an equal number of votes. The judges decided the contest by casting lots, declaring Joseph Read duly elected.
In preparing for the fall election, Augustus Cook, the township clerk, in company with Joseph Read, made a trip to Norwalk for the purpose of procuring the new ballot box, law books, etc., belonging to the township. Two yoke of oxen were attached to a wagon and driven along, as Read designed, to bring back a load of boards with which to construct a floor, doors, etc., for his cabin. The ballot box and books were put into a bag and placed on the load. While fording Slate Run, on the return, the wagon was overturned. After buffeting the stream, and carrying out the floating lumber, they discovered that the bag and its precious contents had floated down the stream, and gave chase. Far down the run it was seen bounding along in the current; Cook plunged in, and soon brought it safely ashore. The officers for 1878 are: Ezra Pruden, E. P. Snyder and Theodore F. Niver, trustees; Erving Tillson, clerk; William Brown, treasurer; Miles Gregory, assessor; W. S. Sweatland and Allen Van Lew, constables, and thirty supervisors.
In March 1817, Rev. Alvin Coe preached the first sermon in the township. He was of Presbyterian faith. In 1818, Charles Numan and Charles Westlake, who are said to have been missionaries, passed through the township occasionally, and preached at the house of Hosea Harnden, as they stayed over night with him.
In 1820, Dennis Goddard came through the township looking for such Christians as had strayed beyond the pale of the Methodist church. He found only one within the limits of the township, Mrs. Nabby, wife of Asa Gilson, who belonged to the Methodist church in Saratoga county, New York. In her log cabin, Mr. Goddard organized the first class of the Methodist Episcopal church. Her husband was ap…
Excerpts from: The Fire Lands, Comprising Huron and Erie Counties, Ohio; W.W. Williams - 1879 - Press of Leader Printing Company, Cleveland, Ohio
MORE AN ARTIFACTUAL THAN ARTIFACT: Though surrounded by cool artifacts at the museum I looked about for something to use in this spot this week and opted for this clipping from a 1962 issue of The Vermilion News
While my whole name never appeared with this weekly column it was my first (or near the first) entrance into the world of journalistic jibber-jabber.
My Dad – ever quick with a clever headline – named the column. It was fitting for a kid of 14 or so (at least during those years).
Forever the poet; forever the naive dreamer; I babbled on for several years, and had fun doing it. Had my family not owned the newspaper it would never have existed, and neither (methinks) would “VV”.
Everyone has to start somewhere.
The finance committee refuses to provide funds for the purchase of a chandelier because none of the members knows how to play one.
People ask, when they learn that Jesus fed the 5000, whether the two fish were bass or catfish, and what bait was used to catch 'em.
The pastor says, "I'd like to ask Bubba to help take up the offering." Then five guys and two women stand up.
Opening day of deer season is recognized as an official church holiday.
The choir is known as the "OK Chorale".
In a congregation of 500 members, there are only seven last names in the church directory.
Baptism is referred to as "branding".
There is a special fund raiser for a new church septic tank.
Finding and returning lost sheep isn't just a parable.
High notes on the organ set the dogs on the floor to howling.
People think "rapture" is what you get when you slip while lifting a beer keg.
The baptismal font is a #2 galvanized washtub.
The choir robes were donated by (and embroidered with the logo from) Billy Bob's Towing and Junkyard.
The collection plates are really hub caps from a '56 Chevy.
The final "Amen" is drowned out by all the 4x4's in the parking lot starting up.
THIS SECTION WILL CHANGE SOON: I doubt that I will return podcasts to "VV". It's easier to do those things on YouTube. But I want to continue to promote the following:
Persons interested in the history of the Lake Shore Electric Railway (which was the subject of a recent past podcast series) - "the greatest electaric railway system on the planet" may want to go to Amazon.com and purchase a book called "Images of Rail - Lake Shore Electric Railway". It was put together by Thomas J. Patton with the help of my friends Dennis Lamont and Albert Doane. It'd make a nice gift.
Another great book with Vermilion Roots is, "Grandmas’ Favorites: A Compilation of Recipes from Margaret Sanders Buell" by Amy O’Neal, Elizabeth Thompson and Meg Walter (May 2, 2012). This book very literally will provide one with the flavor of old Vermilion. And ye can also find it at Amazon.com. Take a look.
LOCAL ANNOUNCEMENTS: After giving it much thought this link has been "put-down". During the last year most of the folks who used to use this page as a bulletin board have acquired their own and, consequently, no longer need this forum from "Views". I have, however, kept links (in the links section) to Larry Hohler's "Hope Homes" in Kenya - and to Bette Lou Higgins' Eden Valley Enterprises sites. They are historically and socially relevant projects. I suggest that you visit these sites on a regular basis to see "what's shakin'".
THE BEAT GOES ON: This page is generated by a dreaded Macintosh Computer and is written and designed by (me) Rich Tarrant. It will change weekly ~ usually on Saturday. Bookmark the URL (Universal Resource Locater) and come back at your own leisure. Send the page to your friends (and enemies if you wish). If you have something to share with those who visit this page, pass it on. And if you see something that is in need of correction do the same. My sister, Nancy, is a great help in that respect. It only takes me a week to get things right. And follow the links. You might find something you like. If you experience a problem with them let me know. Also, if you want to see past editions of this eZine check the new archives links below.
If you're looking for my old links section (pictured) I've replaced it with a pull-down menu (visible in the small box next to the word "Go"). If you're looking for links to more Vermilion history check that menu.
How the old links menu looked
or you can use PayPal: (NOTE: IT WORKS NOW)
Vol.11, Issue 23 - August 17, 2013
© 2012 Rich Tarrant