07/02/11 VIEWS DESKTOP - LIBERTY & DIVISION STREETS - ONCE UPON A TIME
FROM MY DESTOP TO YOURS: Aye. The Fourth is nigh; tis the 235th birthday of the Revolution. Tis time for everyone to make their Fourth of July Resolution. Mine is to become more positive. I never really noticed it before (too much) but “we, the people” can take some very positive things in our lives and turn them into the most negative things you’ve ever heard, done, or seen - in a flash. I’m as guilty of that as anyone. So I’m not really being critical of others. It’s just an observation. Perhaps it just part of the human psyche [n. human soul, mind, spirit]. It’s not a matter of just complaining about something. Some things are worthy of complaint; like a flat tire, or a tooth ache. It’s when we take something and make it into something that it plainly is not via imaginative extrapolation that its legitimacy becomes suspicious. In short, it’s not so much what somethings is (right now) it’s what it might become allowing someone’s creative logic on the subject. For instance; a cow may provide us with milk, but in the end it leads to global warming by emitting methane gas. Consequently, we are led to believe all cows are inherently bad - and to allow them to exist is suicide. That’s creative logic. It’s not wrong. But the conclusions are ridiculous. Political campaign advertisements use this technique all the time. Internet babblists thrive on it. And I’ve decided not to add to it. As our parents taught most of us: If you can’t say something good to / or about someone and / or something - don’t say it at all.
Happy 235th Birthday America!
Historically,
TAKING THE TRAIN
NEW YORK BOUND: I received this snapshot last week from Vermilionite (retired educator) Roger Watkins. These shadows were captured sometime in the 1960's when one of Vermilion's High School classes were taking a trip to New York City via train.
The pic was taken on the east side of Vermilion's (then NYC) train depot behind St. Mary's Catholic Church. Many "Viewers" will also recognize some of the other folks (aside from Roger) in the pic; Harry Peck, Ed Ziemke, Tony Mroski, etc.
Mr. Peck was my 6th grade science teacher. I always marvelled at the fact that his son (John) looked exactly like him. Both he and his son are now gone. So is Tony. Mr. Ziemke is still around - and, of course, Mr. Watkins. These guys were / are great teachers and people. Who couldn've asked for more?
It's a wonderful photo for a number of reasons. I wish I could identify more of the persons pictured though...
"But what about the other 3 brothers?"
THE LESSER KNOWN BAUMHART BROS: A Synopsis: Sometime in the mid-19th century a man named Augustus Baumhart, his bride, Margaret, and his parents Martha and E. [Note: the hand-written record of his father’s name is too indistinct to be used with any certainty] emigrated from Hesse-Kassel in Germany and settled in good ol’ Vermilion, O. In 1859 Augustus and Margaret became the parents of a daughter they named after her paternal grandmother. By 1880 the family, which had come to own an operate a very productive dairy farm on the west side of the village, had added seven more children to their brood: Henry; Emma; Charles; Otto; George; Albert; and Mary / “Mayme”. The family is, to say the least, one of great interest to local historians. For they and their offspring have certainly contributed to the positive development of our community. Thus, it is no accident that Henry, the oldest, and “A.D.” (Albert) the youngest boy, have been primary subjects of previous “Yesteryear” essays. But what about the other 3 brothers? What follows are their stories as best I could trace them: Charles “C.C.” Baumhart: (pictured top left) was the fourth child, and second son, born on the family farm in 1866. He is described as having been “a man of more than usual intelligence, enterprising”, and an overall good citizen. As a young many he owned and operated a drugstore business in Vermilion. Persons who are inclined to browse through the earliest editions of The Vermilion News will repeatedly come across his name as both a local entrepreneur and as a caring and responsible citizen of the community. Near the turn of the 20th century he married a gal named Carlena Martin. (Carlena’s sister, by the way, was married to another well known Vermilion man named J.C. Gilchrist.) The young family eventually moved to Oberlin where Charles was, again, involved in the prescription drug business as well as real estate. It has been said that the parents were drawn to the nearby college town solely because they believed it offered better educational opportunities for their children. The veracity of that claim, however, remains to be seen. For at the time Vermilion Village had several drugstores in operation along its streets. One belonged to Charles’s youngest brother Albert. On October 11, 1910 Charles died. He had been in ill health for six months, and confined to his bed for six weeks suffering with a severe heart problem. He was only 44 years old. Otto E. Baumhart: (pictured bottom right) was born on the family farm in 1869. Of all the brothers Otto was probably the least visible in the community. Although his wife Inez, as sundry news brevities of yesteryear readily testify, was active in various social circles about town. But Otto’s main interests, like those of his older brother, Henry were steam boilers. Consequently Otto became a railroad engineer. He worked for the Nickel Plate Railroad, and his homecomings were, like those of many of Vermilion’s sailors, reported by the local press. Almost as much as his wife’s many social engagements. Otto died at the age of the relatively young age of 57, on the 15th day of July in 1926. George E. Baumhart: (pictured bottom left) was born on his parents dairy farm in 1872. Unlike his brothers George never left the farm. Also unlike his brothers he never married. He did, however, share something with his brothers. That something was a passion for politics. This undoubtedly had some to do with their respective vocations. For it is important to participate in the process which makes the rules one must follow in both life and business. But it is also a matter of civic responsibility. Although the Vermilion farm kept him busy - and it was a very successful operation - George was, like his elder brother, Henry, was a prominent member of the Vermilion Village council until his death on May 1, 1923. He was 51. Were that the full sum and total of this pioneer family it would have been enough. But that is hardly the case. For the roots of the family are deep and the branches as prolific as they are strong. From it we have not only been provided with a nationally recognized engineer, local council representatives, a Vermilion Mayor, and a U.S. Congressional Representative; we have been given a history - a yesteryear - as rich as any in our nation.
Ref: U.S. Census Statistics, 1860, 1880, 1910, 1920, The Sandusky Register-Star 5-2-1923, 11-18-1925, 6-13-1947, 7-13-1947; 9-14-1956; The Elyria Republican 10-13-1910; Special Thanks To: Mary Louise “Tootie” Reisinger and Brenda Baumhart Mezz; Published in the Vermilion Photojournal 08/26/10; Written 08/22/10 @ 2:09 PM.
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...
June 18, 1903. - Volume 7 - Number 3
The Situation.
The people of Vermilion can indeed be thankful, that the small-pox situation is on the mend. We can commend the officials and the citizens in general upon the observance of the quarantines. Although the disease is under control it is not best to be careless it is well to be careful at all times. The use of disinfectants is commendable and might be continued from time to time. A new case was reported Wednesday afternoon that of the seven months old child of Mr. and Mrs. G. Krapp, Jr. The little one was taken to the hospital. It may be possible that one more case will be reported today. The new cases are no more than can be expected as the houses already have been quarantined on account of other cases in them. The Ries family have been released from quarantine. Unless something unforeseen occurs churches and school commencement will be held as announced in another column.
-------------------- Have a Care.
Some people are inclined to feel quarrelsome over the belated quarantine established by Birmingham and Florence against Vermilion. According to a letter we heard read recently from Secy. Probst the action of these burgs is superficial and will doubtless not hold good. It was taken without the sanction of the state board of health and not according to law. While we do not blame the citizens of those places for wishing to protect themselves, grave doubts are entertained as to its legality. However there is now no danger whatever of coming to Vermilion. We believe the less said the sooner mended.
-------------------- Council Meeting.
An adjourned meeting of the Village council was held Friday evening. A huge grist of bills was ground out. The board of health bills amounting to over $700. The Committee on the new street reported favorably and adjudged damages. The report was accepted. The council is to meet with the township trustees to complete the matter. It was declared necessary to borrow $1500 on account of the small-pox. After talking over minor affairs Council adjourned.
-------------------- A Narrow Escape.
Mrs. G.P. Pawson met with what might have proven a serious accident Tuesday morning at five o’clock. She was driving across the track of the Lake Shore Ry. at Cuddebacks Crossing when a west bound flyer struck her buggy. Mrs. Pawson was thrown some distance and shaken up. She was picked up by trainmen and Jas. Risden took her home. The buggy was completely demolished but the horse escaped uninjured.
--------------------
Mrs. E.A. Hill visited her husband at Toledo one day last week. The report that Supt. Stout of the Lake Shore Electric has resigned is denied by the Company. Michigan Penitentiary will have a weekly paper. The long time prisoners have recently invested $700 in a printery. The foundry of the stove works is ready for the machinery. As soon as it arrives and is in place work will commence. Friday afternoon Boatman Foster found a body of the young man who was drowned in the lake last week Sunday. The remains were sent to Cleveland. No. Geo. Blattner, the hardware dealer hasn’t the small-pox as some one has reported, but he has a large and fine stock of hardware and utensils, paints and oils to sell. A call wil convince you. People who intended to spend their summer at Vermilion need not change their plans. There will in all probability be no more small-pox. Mr. Chas. Davis of Berlin Hts, and Miss Jennie Scoville were married yesterday at the Pelton House. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Kaley. They took the afternoon Electric for Toledo. The theme at the Cong’l church next Sunday morning will be the calamity through which we have passed and some valuable lessons from it. Shall we not all come to the churches next Sunday and give devout thanks that we have escaped as well as we have.
If reports are true there will be a queer auction sale at Berlin Heights in a short time. It is nothing less than an auction to dispose of a quanity [sic] of caskets which have been found in the home of the late James Sanderson an old casket maker. They are of latest pattern, and quite valuable. Not long ago it was voted at a special election that the village purchased property to improve the school. The Sanderson residence was included and when and [sic] old and unfrequented room was opened the caskets were found.
-------------------- AXTEL.
This vicinity can boast of an epidemic all its own but we can be sick quietly without spreading consternation thru out [sic] the land. All able bodied children in the neighberhood [sic] are or have been or expect to be suffering with the malady known as measles. We will let them run their course as measles will and we trust no one will be any the worse for it.
-------------------- BARTER RIDGE.
The strawberry season is about over. Mr. A.G. Risden is attending the convention of the Modern Woodmen of America at Indianapolis this week. The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. F.D. Smith died suddenly Sunday morning.
-------------------- BROWNHELM.
Mrs. J.B. Baumhardt and daughter Nelle attended the Commencement exercises at Elyria Tuesday night. The former’s niece Nettie Fowl being a member of the class. The Fifth Annual Commencement of the Brownhelm High School will be held at the Congregational Church Thursday evening June 18, ‘03.
-------------------- School Commencement.
The Thirteenth Annual Commencement of the Vermilion High School will be held at the Opera House Tuesday evening June 30th. Baccalaureate sermon will be delivered Sunday, June 28th at the M.E. Church.
Linwood Park opened Wednesday. Warren and Roy Kane were in Cleveland Thursday. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Trinter spent Sunday at Cleveland. The crew of the Marietta stopped in Vermilion to visit friends. Mrs. Melissa Pelton is the guest of friends and relatives in town this week. The commencement of the Brownhelm High School takes place this evening. There are four graduates Pearl Elizabeth Joyce, Bertha Mae Kuellmer, Elsie Mae Cooper and Floyd Wallace McDowell. There will be services at the Reformed Church next Sunday; German in the afternoon and English in the evening. The choir will practice Saturday evening. The church has been thoroughly disinfected so no one need be afraid to come. All Welcome.
Nuhn and Trinters were the highest bidders in naming the Vermilion Ball Team. Hence the name will be the The [sic] Nuhn and Trinter Stars. And did you hear of their game with a Cleveland Club Sunday; the score was in the neighborhood of 36 to 9 in favor of the Stars. It was a dead walk away for them.
-------------------- A Life Saving Station
Lorain is to have a life saving station. Prominent Government officials were in Lorain one day last week looking over the ground where the station is to be placed. It has not been determined whether it will be on the east or west side of the river. The establishment of this station has become an absolute necessity.
-------------------- RESOLUTIONS.
Whereas, it has been the will of the divine Ruler of the Universe to taken from this earthly abode our Brother O. Brooks. Be it resolved that we the members of the Twine Stringers and Helpers Union, Local No.3 A.F. of L. No. 10922, extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family of our deceased Brother in ther bereavement and direct them to Him who doeth all things well. Be it further resolved that a copy of this be sent to the parents of our deceased brother, a copy be be [sic] spread upon our records and a copy be sent to the Vermilion News for publication. Geo. W. Ritter, Sec. Frank Ritter Pres.
Hmmmmmm....
"...And, just maybe, fifty years from it they will look back..."
IN 50 YEARS OR SO: Saturday afternoon (9/11/10) I had lunch with an old friend at Vermilion’s Main Street Grill. I hadn’t seen him for a long time. His name is Tom Rodgers. We grew up in the same neighborhood, and went to school together. After high school I went to Vietnam, and Tom went to Miami University. He told me that at Miami he met his wife whom, he said, “graduated magna cum laude” - while he graduated “magna cum last”. Funny. But seriously, Tom eventually acquired a degree in law, and went on to have a very successful career with the international food service Hobart Company of Troy, Ohio. Prior to having lunch we sat on a bench in Exchange/ Rubberneck Park. In a yesteryear, we recalled, we spent a significant amount of time in the park watching traffic, people, and talking about things kids talk about; cars, girls, and sports - not necessarily in that order. So even if a few changes have taken place over the years [e.g. the old police station is once again a public comfort station; a cannon has been moved; Okagi’s, Leidheiser’s, the Goody-Goody Bar, and the Kountry Kitchen restaurants are gone; the Lemon Tree and Maud-Elton saloons have vanished; the picture show also gone.] the place is still the same. Well, it’s somewhat the same. After all, the years - fifty or sixty of them - have passed since those days. In time the conversation turned to the photo accompanying these words. Tom sent it to me last December. It’s a nice portrait. But we were only able to identify five of the youngsters in it. From left to right in the front row are: Patty Neiding; an unidentified boy and girl; and then Tom Rodgers. In the middle row, from left to right, are Wade Rodgers (Tom’s big brother); “Pete” Neiding (Patty’s big brother); an unidentified girl; and Cliff Bartlome. The boy in the back row is also unknown. Pete and Patty are still familiar faces about town. Pete was probably one of the youngest people to ever become a volunteer fireman in Vermilion. The family - his father Russ, and mother Ruth - were well known for their services to both the Vermilion and Huron communities. Tom’s brother, Wade, currently lives in Michigan where he works as a comptroller for several hospitals. Unfortunately, Cliff Bartlome, whose prowess as an athlete was widely recognized in the area, was defeated by a chronic illness, and lost his life in 2008. We mused over these things during lunch. And then went our own ways. He back to Troy, and me back to Oakwood Drive here in Vermilion. Lest there is some miraculous breakthrough in life that eliminates accidents, ageing, and disease we’ll not likely be meeting in the park fifty years hence. And things will have undoubtedly changed some more. When I got home, and was climbing out of my truck, I noticed some neighborhood youngsters playing in the rain. It was coming down pretty hard. And there they were by the curb ankle deep in the water that was rushing down the gutter. Laughing, jumping, and singing songs only they could hear or knew. Like the neighborhood children in Tom’s photo they were smiling. It was a good day. And, just maybe, fifty years from it they will look back, reminisce, and enjoy it once again. Even if they don’t recall the names of everyone in it.
Ref: Published in the Vermilion Photojournal 09/16/10; Written 09/12/10 @ 10:08 AM.
ALEXIA ABERNATHY CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA
Oops! Proof No-Spill Feeding Bowl
Alexia invented the Oops! Proof No-Spill Feeding Bowl at the age of 11 for a science fair project. This unique bowl prevents messes because spillage is caught in a larger outer bowl which attaches to the smaller bowl nested within. The lid, which fastens to the larger bowl, has a hole in the center which allows access to the inner bowl. Alexia secured a patent for her bowl which is now manufactured by Little Kids® and sold in stores nationwide.
FINALLY (!): I'd been looking for this photograph for about a year now. For years, and years it hung on the door between the print shop and the office in the Vermilion News building on Grand street. Sometime during the last 10 years someone removed everything that was on that door - ostensibly to refinish the door - and it was misplaced.
Then - last week as I was giving some friends a tour of the shop one of them happened to pluck a small pamphlet from a holder on a cabinet and....lo and behold there it was.
The gentleman pictured was a friend of my father's; a journalist / photographer named Dave Vormelker. He worked for the Cleveland Plain Dealer and several other newspapers throughout Ohio and the U.S. during his career. For some reason I have vivid memories of him visiting my dad.
I didn't know until recently that the family kept (and still keep) a cottage in Linwood Park. They lived in Cleveland Heights when they weren't in Vermilion. His son Joel - a retired geologist - stays at Linwood most of the year. I believe he was the Vormelkers only child.
Vormelkers christian name was Clifford David. Born in 1907 he was the youngest child of Julius and Amy Vormelker of Cleveland. He had two brothers and a sister named Rose who was, and remains, extremely well known for her work as a librarian. (Google her and you'll see what I mean.)
Dave's work as a journalist did not make him as famous as his older sister, but he was always a "big-time" journalist in my eyes. I wouldn't say that he was a hero in the eyes of a youngster such as myself. But I did admire him. Little did I know that most folks could care less about such things. (Not everyone grows up reading newspapers and their by-lines.)
Dave died in 1974. I've never forgotten him. Nor will I ever...
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.
NEW HAVEN.
..ment. No. 36, located at New Haven, and dividing the jurisdiction between Norwalk, on the north, and Mansfield, on the south. For many years the organization flourished, but finally, by reason of its funds becoming low, and because of dissensions among the members, it became feeble. It was removed to Plymouth, with the hope that it might there have a more vigorous life, but its misfortunes followed, and about the year 1856 its charter was surrendered by W. W. Drennan, J. W. McLaughlin and William Knott, who were the principal officers at that time. The charter was returned upon the petition of J. M. Beelman, William Davis, C. Eschbaugh, John Wetz, John E. Hunter, H. B. Silliman, John H. Ferguson, F. Portman and J. W. McLaughlin, and the encampment was re-instituted, July 1, 1875. The following officers were at that time elected: C. P., H. Beelman; H. P., C. Eschbaugh I S. W., J. M. Beelmau; J. W., John Ferguson; scribe, J. M. Lazier; treasurer, F. Portman. Present officers : C. P., J. M. Lazier; H. P., G. Gilbert: S. W., John Metz; J. W., F. Portman; scribe, G. Miller; treasurer, H. B. Silliman. Night of meeting—first and third Wednesday of each month.
PLYMOUTH LODGE, NO. 93, I. 0. 0. F.,
was instituted by Thomas Spooner, G. M., August 25,1847. The first officers were: N. G., Kobert McDonougli; Y. G., E. 0. Pier; recording secretary, A. Powers; permanent secretary, J. W. Beekman; treasurer, Walter Burns. The lodge was in good condition until 1864, when the charter was surrendered. It was returned in 1871 by John A. Lee, Deputy G. M., and the lodge was again organized, with the following charter members: Daniel Bremer, Christian Eschbaugh, John Metz. Jacob Buck, T. Portner, J. W. McLaughlin. The officers elected were as follows: K". G., C. Eschbaugh; V. G., John Metz; recording secretary, D. Brenner; permanent secretary, J. W. McLaughlin; treasurer, Jacob Buck. The officers in position March 1, 1879, are: N. G., John Metz; V. G., John Snyder; recording secretary, William Jones; permanent secretary, J. W. McLaughlin; treasurer, William McClinchy. Night of meeting, Friday of each week.
RICHLAND LODGE NO. 201, F. AND A. M.
The charter for this lodge was granted October 19, 1851. The original members were: James Drennan, Erastus S. Spencer, Rouse Bly. H. L. Kirtland, B. F. Day, Marshal Webb, Messer Barker, Samuel Buchanan, John Weldon. First officers: W. M , James Drennan: S. W., Erastus S. Spencer; J. W.. Rouse Bly. The hall and charter of this lodge were destroyed by fire in May, 1871, and the charter was reissued October 19th of the same year. The present officers of the lodge are: W. M., J. W. Webb; S. W., G. Burgoyne: J. W., Solomon Spear; Treasurer, G. W. Hoffman; Secretary. J. W. McLaughlin; S. D., T. J. Webber; J. D., Jacob Culp: Stewards, Jacob Beelman and C. W. BuUer; Tyler, William McClinchy. Stated communication on Monday evening on or next preceding full moon in each month.
PLYMOUTH CHAPTER NO. 118, R. A. M.
The charter was granted for Plymouth Chapter October 16, 1869. Charter members: 0. W. Williams, D. B. King. P. L. Brink, Wells Rogers, H. Graham, J. G. Street, Solomon Spear, J. K. Kost, J. T. Barr, J. W. McLaughlin, J. W. Webb, T. L. Barr, B. F. Day. The first officers were: H. P., 0. W. Williams; King, J. W. McLaughlin; Scribe, H. Graham. Following are the present officers of the organization: H. P., J. W. Webb; E. K., J. K. Smith; E. S., L. S. Heller; C. 0. H., P. S. Brink; P. S., G. Burgoyne; R. A. C, J. C. Tenner; G. M. 3rd V., J. G. Street; G. M. 2nd v., William McClinchy; G. M. 1st v., W. H. Bullock; Treasurer, Wells Rogers; Secretary, Solomon Spear; Chaplain, J. W. McLaughlin; Stewards, W. H. Burke and L. D. Vinson; Guard, J. W. McLaughlin. Stated communications on Friday evening, on or next preceding full moon.
PLYMOUTH LODGE NO. 70, K. OF H.
The charter members of this body were: J. W. McLaughlin, A. Hershiser, H. B. Silliman, H. Saviers, C. Eshbaugh, S. R. Bloom, S. S. Smith, C. Waite, J. H. Ferguson, J. N. Beelman, 0. Tyson. J. Westfall. They organized January 28, 1875, by the election of the following officers: P. D., J. W. McLaughlin; D., H. B. Silliman; V. D., A. R. Hershiser; A. D., S. S. Smith; Guide, J. W. Beelman; Reporter, J. H. Ferguson; Financial Reporter, C. Eshbaugh; Treasurer, H. Saviers; Sentinel, S. R. Bloom. Following are the officers of 1879: P. D., D. H. Seller; D.. M. B. Beelman; V. D., S. R. Bloom; A. D., C. W. Butler; Guide, C. A. Beelman; Chaplain, J. G. Rhodes; Reporter, Solomon Spear; Financial Reporter. J. A. Beelman; Treasurer. J. M. Lazier: Guardian. J. F. Beelman; Sentinel, G. Gebert.
THE PLYMOUTH GIRLS’ LITERARY SOCIETY
was organized November 12, 1873. The members were thirteen girls, from twelve to thirteen years of age, their object being to procure a library for their own use. The first officers were: Ida Getman, president; Arte McDonough, vice president; May Culp, secretary; Celia Schonberg, assistant secretary; Rena Billstein, treasurer. Meetings were held each week. The first effort to raise funds was a fancy fair held December 17. 1873. The net profits of this fair were forty-five dollars, with which a book-case and a few books were purchased. By means of socials, festivals, etc.. the number of volumes has been increased to six hundred. The present officers are: Lou Strong, presideut: Rena Billstein. vice president; May Culp, secretary; Jennie Culp, treasurer. The society has now a pleasant room, over the First National Bank, and the library is open to all.
Excerpts from: The Fire Lands, Comprising Huron and Erie Counties, Ohio; W.W. Williams - 1879 - Press of Leader Printing Company, Cleveland, Ohio
THE DAIRY: From, again the great collection of Mary Lynn and Franklin A. Homitz. come these pieces advertising the Maurer-Wikel Dairy. I do remember these being around our home when I was a kid (the mirror expecially).
The dairy was one of my favorite places during the summer when we were kids. My friends and I used to play basketball on the courts that were (then) behind South Street School on hot summer days. After working up a good sweat (which wasn't hard to do) we'd pool our money and go over to the dairy to buy a small bottle of chocolate milk or an small orange drink. This was well before most people had air conditioning, and the office in the dairy was nice and cold. It was a great feeling.
On of my big brothers (Al) worked for the dairy for years. At one time they had a significant business in the area. That was before the big corporations bought everybody out and the local dairies quit home deliveries.
Ah - great times and greater memories...
THE GODFATHER OF POLITICAL TAP DANCING (Thanks to Jim Fischer - Vermilion, O.)
We need more statemen like this today....wait: most of our current crop of politicians seem to do this but not nearly as eloquently! In 1952, Armon M. Sweat, Jr., a member of the Texas House of Representatives, was asked about his position on whiskey. What follows is his exact answer (taken from the Political Archives of Texas): "If you mean whiskey, the devil’s brew, the poison scourge, the bloody monster that defiles innocence, dethrones reason, destroys the home, creates misery and poverty, yea, literally takes the bread from the mouths of little children; if you mean that evil drink that topples Christian men and women from the pinnacles of righteous and gracious living into the bottomless pit of degradation, shame, despair, helplessness, and hopelessness, then, my friend, I am opposed to it with every fiber of my being. However, if by whiskey you mean the oil of conversation, the philosophic wine, the elixir of life, the ale that is consumed when good fellows get together, that puts a song in their hearts and the warm glow of contentment in their eyes; if you mean Christmas cheer, the stimulating sip that puts a little spring in the step of an elderly gentleman on a frosty morning; if you mean that drink that enables man to magnify his joy, and to forget life’s great tragedies and heartbreaks and sorrow; if you mean that drink the sale of which pours into Texas treasuries untold millions of dollars each year, that provides tender care for our little crippled children, our blind, our deaf, our dumb, our pitifully aged and infirm, to build the finest highways, hospitals, universities, and community colleges in this nation, then my friend, I am absolutely, unequivocally in favor of it. This is my position, and as always, I refuse to compromise on matters of principle."
PODCAST #0:This week the Vermilion Views Podcast #0 is none existant - again. Some good "stuff" coming soon.
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.
Also, please note that all the video (MP4 and MOV) podcasts (when used) are done in the "Quicktime MP4 / MOV" formats. If you don't have a "Quicktime" it's easy to find and free to download.
NOTE NOTE:Past podcasts are not available in the on-line archive. They just take up too much disk space. But if one really, really, really wants to acquire a copy of a past cast it can be had by contacting me and I will place it on a disc and send it to ye for a minimal fee.
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.9, Issue 16, July 2, 2011
© 2011 Rich Tarrant