VHS CLASS REUNION: Will be held August 26 and 27, 2016, for the VHS Class of 66....they need addresses,email, etc. Folks can email Carolyn Hill or call her @ 440.967.2821.

NOTHING LEFT BUT MEMORIES: It was a general store, a Ford dealership, a Pontiac dealership. Upstairs there was an apartment much like the one at the print shop museum that was later occupied by the Vermilion Mayor who also manufactured and sold cosmetics therein. The place caught on fire and burned to the ground around 1940. Afterward a new dealership / service station was built on the site. For a time it was a Kaiser-Fraser dealership. Later it was just a service station owned and operated by Dick Barthel. And then – for years it was not anything at all until the city got into the ambulance business. When that service was eliminated the police used it for a time. And just two or three years ago it was torn down replaced by a little sitting area (park) called Friendship Park. But in fact and truth there’s nothing really left there but memories.

THE WELL WORN PATH: TRAVELOGUE C.1920: Ah, sweet summer comes to Ohio and it’s time. It’s time to pack up your troubles and head to Linwood Park in Vermilion. And while you’re there it’s always fun to take the well-worn path to Cloudy’s Ferry where you can sit along the dock and pass the time with friends, rent a rowboat or take a ferryboat cruise along the sunny shores of Lake Erie.

It’s not very difficult to be drawn into the photographs that accompany this week’s column. They are extremely compelling. I like to revisit them at least once a year (if not more). The laid back atmosphere emanating from them is quite contagious. It is “Vermilion”.

Both photographs were taken during the mid to late 1920s. My grandfather, News editor-publisher Pearl Roscoe, took the large photograph with the ferry leaving the dock. If you look very closely at the wharf on the right you will see his initials – the backward “P” attached to an “R”. I don’t know who took the upper left photo of the path to the ferry. But oddly enough, it is that photo which led to this essay.

I first came across a “The Path To The Ferry – Linwood Park – Vermilion, Ohio” photograph about fifteen years ago. I found it on the popular e-commerce website known as “eBay”. It’s a hand tinted landscape portrait of the path from Linwood Park printed as postcard and sent from Vermilion to Cleveland on September 2, 1925. And while I seldom purchase anything from this on-line auction store I did buy the card. However, the photo of the path that appears in the composition accompanying this essay wasn’t taken from that card.

While sorting through some old photographs at the (VNPSM) museum I found the accompanying print of the path and, in passing, noted the similarity between it and the path picture on the postcard I’d long ago squirreled away among some of my favorite things. But the print I found was black and white and was (as may be obvious) torn. After I scanned the black and white print and was “working” with it using some digital software I inadvertently added a little color and was happily astounded when I discovered it to be the same image that was on the card I’d purchased years earlier. The tear at the bottom of the black and white picture now made some sense because the card photo doesn’t show much more than the snapshot. It was very likely torn where it was folded at the bottom. And it was most likely folded to crop it for the engraver who made the metal plate for printing. Again, I’ve no idea who took the original photograph. But I’m glad they did.

The path from Linwood Park through the wetlands to the ferry appears to have been well traveled. While it’s a matter of pure speculation on my part I believe the path went from what some refer to as the “North Gate” on the northwest side of the park winding through what is now the Vermilion Lagoons housing subdivision – near the beach – to the river and, of course, the ferry. The ferry service would’ve been located somewhere in the area currently occupied by the Vermilion Yacht Club. For a number of years Linwood residents took the ferry to town to purchase groceries, etc. In any case, it’s rather hard for us, today, to picture the exact site of either the path or the ferry dock because everything has changed so much.

I’ve often imagined the path to have been the same one traveled by the William Austin, Horatio Perry and the Sherod families in the early years of the 19th century. Could it have also been the same path of all who followed: from New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania when they came to make this place their home? And before them, did the great tribes of Erie Indians, French trappers and Moravian missionaries pass along the same route as they roamed the wilderness?

I doubt we’ll ever know the answers to those questions with any certainty – because, again, so much has changed. But what hasn’t changed is the ambiance portrayed in these photographs. Perhaps we have better roads on which to travel, better homes and boats in which to live and sail. But when sweet summer comes to Ohio it’s time…

_{REF: Published in the Vermilion Photojournal 06/02/2016.}

Vol. XI, No. 52. - VERMILION, OHIO, THURSDAY, June 4, 1908

COMMENCEMENT

The commencement exercises of the Vermilion High School was held at the Congregational church last Friday evening

The church was beautifully decorated in Steel Gray and Crimson, the class colors.

The program was carried out in full each pupil handling the chosen subject in a pleasing manner. The class address by Rev. Givler of Sandusky was listened to with interest.

The musical part of the program was exceptionally fine being furnished by Stewart's Orchestra of Norwalk.

Only one thing happen to mar the enjoyment of the occasion by some and that was the storm which came up and for a time made it almost impossible for those in the rear of the church to hear some of the best of the program as the wind blew severely. However, even this did not take away the joy of the occasion.

The graduates are Pauline M. Leadrach, Charity Mae Sherod, Anna E. Stefan, Ruby E. Dean, Herman Ball, Margaret Helen Bogart and Grace Gerald Parsons.

The Superintendent, Teachers and Board of Education can be commended for the high standard which our schools have attained, they are working increasingly to give the pupils the best attainable. We can well take pride in our schools.

DECORATION DAY A SUCCESS

_{A Large Gathering Of Citizens – First In Several Years – Find Parade Interesting Exercises}

Decoration Day in Vermilion was one of the most successful ever held here. In fact for several years no pretense has been made to hold any services other than the decorating of the soldiers graves. This year Thomas Ball a member of the G. A. R. called upon the businessmen and all responded favorably and hence the success of the observance.

In the morning the several societies accompanied by the G.A.R. and the G.A.R. Band went to the cemetery and decorated the graves.

At 1 o'clock the parade was formed and followed out the line of March as announced. At the schoolhouse the procession was joined by the schoolchildren and teachers each carrying flags.

When the time came for the exercises in the park the weather became so threatening that the town hall was thrown open and all those who could find room in the building listened to the program. Many however went home not being able to get into the hall.

The program consisted of music by the band, songs by the musical union and recitation by Francis May Pelton and the address by Rev. Lohmann of the Reformed Church. The speaker gave a fine address suitable to the occasion and was heartily applauded.

In all probability this day marks the revival of the observance of Decoration Day in Vermilion, as all are pleased with the attendance and enthusiasm shown. An unusually large number of residences and business houses were tastefully decorated.

This is the first appearance of the Vermilion G.A.R. Band in their new uniforms and in fact their first appearance on a public occasion, and citizens are pleased very much with the progress they have made. Prof. Ackley came over from Sandusky especially for the occasion. He is proud of the progress made under his instructions. Their suits are of Army blue and while not showing are neat and handsome as can be had. In the evening the band gave a concert in the park.

It has been suggested that a bandstand platform be erected for the band as it is expected that band concerts will be given every week during the summer and it will be better to have a good place somewhat elevated to play from.

M.W. of A Decoration Day

Lakeview Camp No. 6250 Modern Woodmen of America will hold their annual Decoration Day services at Maple Grove Cemetery on Sunday afternoon June 7th ‘08, at 2:00 P.M.

The music will be furnished by the Vermillion G.A.R. Band, and the speaker the day will be neighbor H.J. Tourney of Cleveland, O. The parade headed by the band will form in front of John Croll's farm, and march west to the cemetery.

That all the neighbors be on hand not later than 1:45 PM and take their places behind the band om the procession, so that the services may begin promptly at 2 o'clock.

The Modern Woodman extend an invitation to all to be present on that day and help make the coming Decoration Day, the best ever.

VERMILION MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION

The June meeting was held at the Methodist parsonage Monday afternoon. This was the first meeting that the new minister of the Reformed churches attended and Mr. Lohmann received a warm welcome. There were present as visitors Rev. G Veenker of Clarissa Minn., and Rev. W. Grether of Sandusky. As the meeting was breaking up Mrs. Brown requested the parsons to take seats again as it was Mr. Brown's birthday and she wished them to eat something in honor of the day. At the word the preachers dropped back into their chairs as if they were lead and not a morsel was left of the dainty lunch provided. Congratulations were extended to Rev. Brown and thanks to the hostess. This meeting of the cordial fellowship was one of the best the association has ever had.

GIVEN UP THE TEAM

George H Blanchet the owner of Crystal Beach Park has turned the management of the hot ball team over to the members. He finds that he has so much other work on his hands at the time of the ball games that he is unable to attend both profitably and give the time necessary. He will however see that the boys do not come out to the bad. They have a good team and prospects for a successful season. The grounds are in excellent shape and a number of the promising games have been arranged for. The Cohn’s Cutters will picnic at the park Sunday and it is promised that a large crowd will be present.

COURT NOTES

Margaret Biehl was yesterday appointed guardian of Valentine Faulhaber of Vermilion, who has been declared an imbecile by the probate courts. He has a pension amounting to $12 per month and a house and a lot in Vermilion. Mrs. Biehl furnished $1,000 bond, which was approved by Judge Sloane.

Mrs. Eva Zimmerman, widow of the Engelbert Zimmerman was yesterday appointed administrix of his estate, which is valued at $500. There are 13 children most whom live in Huron. George Windau Franklin Krock, and George Brown were the appraisers.

Correspondence

AMHERST

Mrs. James Jackson is improving rapidly from her recent [It doesn’t say what happened to her.] and is now able to walk.

Been Zilch lost the end of his finger on his right hand, while operating a potato planter, having it caught in the machinery.

Ms. Tina Herriman while attempting to light a gasoline stove, Wednesday, was quite badly burned about her face and arms. Part of her hair was burned off. While she was burned badly about the face it is believed it will not disfigure her.

The Decoration Day services were fittingly observed. The school children and teachers together with Eagles, Odd Fellows and Lady Maccabees were in line. The music was furnished by the Maccabee band, and went to Cleveland Street cemetery to decorate the soldiers’ graves. An address was delivered at the Town Hall after the parade, by Rev. Black.

BROWNHELM

Elbow Messerole sold fine horse to C. Myers of Vermilion.

Tenny Wilson has purchased a fine automobile is having many joyful rides.

The Brownhelm commencement exercises will be held in the Congregational church Thursday evening June 4th. The class this year consists of three girls and one boy.

ASHMONT

S. E. Shoop has purchased a fine new colt of Geo. Baker.

Elga Lee is the proud owner of a fine new colt.

Strong's Corners

Mrs. Zurcher who has been quite ill is slowly improving.

Locals.

Born – to Mr. and Mrs. William Krapp, on Wednesday, June 3d a daughter.

Robert Kane is having a house built on one of the lots in the Tischer-Driscoll–Hitchcock allotment.

_{[NOTE: Kane’s descendants should take note of this. This may have been the house on the northwest corner of Liberty and Decatur streets.]}

Although the meeting was lengthy the village council did not accomplish much Monday evening. One of the matters acted upon was the acceptance of the Tischer – Driscoll – Hitchcock allotment. There were an unusually large number of visitors some of them with "kicks" and hence the lengthy session. The meeting was adjourned until tonight.

John Parsons of the soldiers home was home Saturday.

Capt. Morrison of Put-in-Bay spent Sunday in town.

Capt. Charles Gegenheimer left for Chicago Sunday where his boat is being put into commission.

Quite a number of Oberlin students have been at Linwood Park this past week.

Mr. and Mrs. Henry Baumhart and children of Cleveland attended the commencement here Friday evening and were the guest of Mrs. Franc Parsons.

A party of nine young people of Berlin Heights and Vermilion enjoyed a strong ride to Mill Hollow Saturday afternoon with Clarence Walper at the reins.

Mr. Albert C. Hofrichter and Miss Clara Wakefield, daughter of F.W. Wakefield, will be married at the Christian Church this evening at 6 o'clock. After a reception at the hotel Maud-Elton, the bridal couple will leave for a trip of several weeks. They will make their home on E. South St.
The NEWS joins their many friends and wishes for a long happy and prosperous journey through life.

Thomas H. Bottomley left Sunday for a trip to Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis Minn. While at the latter place he will be the guest of relatives. He was accompanied as far as Chicago by George H. Nuhn who will travel for the Eagle Pencil Company.

_{[NOTE: I added this to this week’s blog because this refers to my great uncle Tom Bottomley. My maternal grandmother (his sister) was born in Minnesota. But I know of no relatives I have there. Perhaps I do and they will come across this blip and contact me.]}

The salary of the Vermilion postmaster has been raised from $1500 to $1600. This speaks well for Vermilion.

AXTEL

We hear A.W. Leadrach a brand-new surrey.

Mr.. E Farrell took a swift horseback ride on Sunday evening to see the fire.

To all appearances the whole of Axtel and vicinity attended the commencement exercises at Vermilion last Friday evening notwithstanding the drenching rain.

We are pleased to have Camp Vista with us again. We understand they have established their headquarters and A W. Leadrach’s lawn. All that remains to make the band complete is the smiling face of Capt. Bauman of Cleveland.

BIRMINGHAM

The schools of Birmingham closed last week.

Mr. and Mrs. Sprankel are rejoicing over the advent of a baby girl.

Mrs. Funk who was taken sick sometime ago does not improve much.

The funeral of Frank Berg took place from the M.E. Church yesterday. He was sick but a short time and death took place after an operation for appendicitis. The good man has been taken from our midst a kind neighbor and faithful friend he will be greatly missed by those nearest to him. Mr. Casper Berg, Miss Lucy Bernard, and Mrs. Murray Bristol all of Rome were here to attend the funeral of their brother Fred.

150th ANNIVERSARY OF THE “BATTLE OF THE HUNDRED SLAIN”: 3 miles from Fort Phil Kearny near Story, Wyoming will be held this year. (See Wikipedia.)

Late Vermilion resident, Matilda Louis Grummond was the sister of 2nd Lt. George Washington Grummond. Grummond and 81 of his fellow soldiers were killed by an overwhelming force of Lakota, Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians in one of the worst military disasters suffered by the US Army on Great Plains.

If you are a descendant of Matilda please email John Horton or call him at 1.586.549.2471.

RAMBLING THROUGH 1899 VERMILION: Tis fun sometimes - to just ramble through the archived files of The Vermilion News to see (as the expression goes) what was “shakin” among the common folk in some yesteryear. So back to the year 1899 go we...

Tuesday, July 25 - “There arrived on the 4:30 p.m. train what is supposed to be a wild man from the Philippines, which is to be on exhibition at Shadduck’s park. This may be the cause of a number of young people refusing to go to the park.”

Shadduck’s park, also known as Shadduck’s Grove, was the predecessor of the Crystal Beach Amusement Park. It, like Crystal, was a public recreational / picnic park with swimming, a beer garden, and a dance pavilion. But it didn’t offer a tremendous number of amusements beyond those mentioned. Ergo; a wild man from the Philippines must have been a real treat. The feral Filipino, however, was probably born and raised in the Bronx.

On Monday of the same week the paper reported that “seven wagon loads of gypsies came to our town and stopped by the hotel. There were about thirty in number of which five women went to the business places to tell the fortunes of our citizens. One stopped at the [sic] postoffice and told the postmaster she would tell his fortune by holding a dollar in the palm of her hand. Mr Kane gave her the dollar which she took and started out of the door, after a short foot race he succeeded in getting the dollar back. Mr. Kane thinks he will be more careful the next time.”

The “next time”?

Intermingled with these jewels was the inevitable advertisement: “Thomas Roads, Centerfield, O. Writes I suffered from piles seven or eight years. No remedy gave me relief until DeWitts Witch Hazel Salve. Less than a box of which permanently cured me. Soothing, healing, perfectly harmless. Beware of counterfeits. C.C. Baumhart - The Druggist.” (Hey, the publisher had to pay the bills.)

Thursday, March 30 - “Marshall Boland reports that twenty-three tramps found lodging at his “hotel” Sunday and Monday nights. He says he will average seven guests per night. They give their residences anywhere from New York to San Francisco.”

The homeless / jobless problem, contrary to what we may currently believe is - as Marshall Boland’s 1899 report suggests - nothing new to our society. The difference seems to be that past populations of the homeless were primarily male and constantly in transit.

And then there was the also “inevitable” editorializing artfully inserted into news space: “Few people realize the importance of the electric line which passes through our town. It is the main line of the largest electric railway system in the country and like the Lake Shore steam road, it will, in time, be double tracked. In all probability it will be extended west to Chicago, and east to buffalo or New York. Unlike the steam road, however, its service will be of a different character and instead of one or two trains each way per day cars will stop every hour or two.”

The editor’s positive vision for the future of the electric railway was, very unfortunately, never realized. With the advent of the automobile public funds were used to accommodate America’s love affair with personal transportation.

The following 1899 report from the Norwalk Reflector is a reflection (no pun intended) of the changes that would eventually sweep over our community as well as our nation: “The old covered bridge at Birmingham, Erie County (pictured), which has survived the wear and tear of about seventy years of service, is about to be replaced by a modern steel structure. The old bridge has a span of 150 feet and the trusses were made of oak timbers which had a natural crook. Before the days of railroads, in the days of stages, there was a vast amount of travel over the bridge. The contemplated bridge and approaches are estimated to cost $16,000.

Soon the century would come to an end. Shadduck’s park would be replaced by Blanchat’s Crystal Beach. A gypsy fortune teller would have a seasonal franchise in that park, and keep a running tab with the Vermilion mayor for frequently providing a room for her spirituous spouse in what Marshall Boland once referred to a his “hotel”. The bridge over the Vermilion River at Birmingham would, again, experience “a vast amount” of traffic and be replaced before another new century began. And one must be hard pressed not to wonder if someone in a future generation will look back at us - and smile.

_{Ref: The Vermilion News, 1899; Vermilion Area Archival Society, Roscoe-Tarrant Photo Collection; Special Thanks to Jim Fischer; Published in the Vermilion Photojournal 09/17/09.}

INTRIGUING ARTIFACT: This will be, for many, a very intriguing artifact from Vermilion’s past. The original belongs to the collection of Vermilionite Marlene Feldkamp.

The original is approximately 3 feet long and was a challenge for me to reproduce. But I did. Each card is folded into the next like a big map.

I don’t believe I need say much about the piece because the pictures certainly tell the story. It was probably printed in the late 1920s or very early 1930s.

It’s really fun to look at.