181 10 1803 https://kccarchives.cvlcollections.org/files/original/16/408/Burlington_1.pdf 083a638f79792f48f279ea0279d16959 PDF Text Text treasury. The state's general school and county tax amounts to only fourteen mills. Wash. The church has continued its strong missionary program and Mission Fest is always a highlight of the church year. Hope Church still has a strong commitment to the work of the Lord and this we will pass on to future generations in the hope that a small bit of this history will bring them closer to the origins of their church and the dedication needed to work together in God's family. by Mrs. Emil Strobel BURLINGTON T253 It is 38 miles from Burlington to Sherman Center; 35 mi. to cheyenne Wells; 60 mi. to Haigler, Nebr.; 55 mi. to Wallace, Kan.; 168 mi. to Denver. It is plain to be seen that Burlington is the only town near the center A view of l4th Street looking north with the old Christian Church building (the IOOF Hall) to the far right. This picture is later because of the water tower far center. of this vast tract of tillable land. Elbert county is in good condition financially, in fact it is in the best condition of any county in the state. The county's paper sells at par, the county is out of debt and has money in the Every officer in the county, except sheriff is a Democrat. One thousand people depend upon Burlington for a trading point. There will be five times that number before the "leaves begin to turn" this fall.-May 20, 1887 Colorado with her gold and silver mines, her coal, her iron, her wood, her stock interests, and last, but not least, her undeveloped agricultural resources will in a few years become one of the richest states in the Union. No place astonished the traveler so much as Burlington. Only four weeks old and today almost every branch of business repre- sented, but sti[ there is room for more. Travelers and land seekers dailey crowd the shops and eating houses and many others undergo the painful task of standing up all night or holding down the soft side of a pine floor. Land is going fast and in a short time the area of government land in Elbert county will be of very small proportions. The bounteous rainfall we have enjoyed this spring has virtually made the road to success a solid stone and the tread of progress more than sure. Labor and capital move hand in hand, and their social union the joy of all. Everybody is satisfied. No one is grumbling, and east Elbert county's boom will continue.June 3. 1887 The following information was obtained from copies of the Cheyenne Wells Gazette as notated below. The paper was issued on Saturdays. Mail Route Information: June 4, 1887: "A new Post Office has been established at Burlington in Elbert county." State News. August 6, 1887: "Burlington gets a carrier with mail but once a week. The contract has been let to a Mr. Watters of that place." December 22, 1888: "The mail route from this place across to Burlington will be discontinued after Jan. lst." Stage Line Information: March 24, 1888: "The daily stage line between Cheyenne Wells and Burlington is now in operation. The time is Mayor and Town council, city of Burlington, 1889, L. to R.: E.T. Lemieux, T.G. Price, R.L. Hubbard, T.J. Jones, Mayor, Robert Clark, D. Kavanaugh, and George W. Talley. reduced an hour and the driver doubles the road, making seventy miles in twenty-four hours." April 7, 1888: "The daily hack to Burlington is a great convenience to travelers to the inland queen." May 26, 1888: "Joe Burger is now driving the Burlington hack." September 22, 1888: "The Burlington stage line is reduced to a one-horse concern in a very delapidated condition." Freighting: Panarama view looking north and a little west. Far center is the depot with it prominate chimney and railroad boxcars on track. The house in center would be located just north of Neil's Furniture Store building. �w4. W. {4 1;r '..l"Yrt :J .1.s..,,, iW..., .,i Burlington, very early 1900's of 14th Street, notice the windmills and board sidewalks. Photo is taken looking south with Montezuma Hotel on the left. January 14, 1888: "Last Wednesday afternoon Jake Pierce, a freighter living 20 miles north, was on his way to Burlington with a buffalo calf was shipped to Denver Sunday by a Burlington farmer." load of coal. Going down a grade at Wells and Cave kept by John B. White, in attempting to set the brake on his wagon, he was thrown off the side; his left arm catching the wheel by Janice Salmans was badly broken near the shoulder. The fractured member was set by Dr. Crum, and Pierce departed for his home the following morning." Note: The Wells and Cave mentioned were in Sec. 28-13-44 of Cheyenne county. John B. White ran a store there. Prior to the county divisions in 1889 this would have been in Elbert county. Citizens: "A live l4th Street, early 1900's, building on left could be where the Burlington Bakery is now with narrow board walks. �:a, rr.,it r, ,ri:.l1i:::,,, I ,:l'::t::t . .i:t,:t, i One of Burlington's first hardware stores was operated by D. Kavanaugh. lr.:r)i: The good old day's of a cow in every back yard even on l4the Street. Notice the Courthouse just left of center in background with newly planted trees around it. PIONEER LIFE ON THE PRAIRIE Later small buildings were erected and The creamery, notice bare light bulb hanging from ceiiing. now known as "Old Burlington," but for- office. settlement made just east of the main street of Burlington, about three-fourths of a mile, T254 merly called Lowell. 'Ihe first store in this settlement was owned by Charles Lamb; later Abe Hendricks started a small store in a building which he had erected and which was moved to New Burlington in 1888, and is now occupied by the Burlington Call printing HISTORY OF THE TOWN OF BURLINGTON The first settlement was mostly a tent city about one mile west of the present city limits, and on what is now the John Lueken farm. *"-,d$ .$rx! The first school in Burlington was held in a small vacant building on what is now North Main Street. The teacher was Miss (Molly) Daves, who had a homestead adjoining the town. The first Postmaster was E.T. Lemieux, '' This picture was taken in 1905-06, shows a complete view of Burlington at that time. The photo was taken from the roof of the schoolhouse facing west. The street on the left is Senter Street. Do you recognize the lovely old homes? Part 1 see part 2. tn :.,r..**.aa--a Ill L- ^dr+Y-"{ [-.s $q Part 2 Notice the windmills and the small trees. At the extreme right you can see the depot and the only elevator ,Q!. �appolntect rn May, IUU/. Eugene Worcnester was the first editor, printing the "Burlington Blade" the first newspaper in Burlington. The Printing shop was in a building located where the Sim Hudson Garage now stands. R.S. Newell and associates bought the school section in which New Burlington is now located, and which was the expected Rock Island Depot site at that time. When the Railroad was built through the County in 1888. all the business houses where moved from Old Burlington to New Burlington, and rebuilt along the intersection of Senter Avenue and Fourteenth Streets, the present business section. Daniel Kavanaugh was the # ;j ,.,,$ {t I ,,,' v L,'_ ;$ c, ,u :, q{ first Hardware merchant; T.F. Sutton was the first Mayor, and the Board of Trustees were: T.G. Price, H.E. Neal, Daniel Kav- anaugh, H. Wilson, M.E. Cook (who operated the first drugstore) and G.W. Talley. The first physician was Dr. C.A. Gillette, who rode horseback for many a mile over blizzard swept prairies to care for the sick and suffering, and often times bring to the world another "pioneer" who was to carry on the work of building a new community. by Della Gamble Hendricks BURLINGTON, T255 T-8, R-44, both tracts of land being in Elbert County, Colorado. These were both preemp- tion filings, and after six months residence both men proved up on their claims, their final receipts being dated February 23, L887 and February 15, 1887 respectively. Other parties, who were located on land near what rfe tl i a:@ r.*tl: hardware, Skyland Beauty Shop, Lee's Barber Shop and Marion's. the tract just west of the golf course, Rachel E. Van Winkle on the present golf course, Ed. F. and George Bevelhimer on the half section across the road to the south, S.M. Mayfield on the quarter section south of the Court House, and P.A. Troutfetter on the quarter north of Mr. Kavanaugh. In July, 1886 Dan Kavanaugh filed on the SW % S-31, T-8, R-43 and about the same time Chas H. Dicks filed on the SE 1A S-34, -- About 1910 with McCurdy's meat market and the Record Printing Office on left of picture. This is the block which now holds Zimbelman's, Gracie's, The Prescription Center and Sound Center, Snyder's in now Burlington were A.L. Teagarden on TOWN OF COLORADO "..'-. At this time the surveys for the Rock Island Railroad were still being made and no one knew just where the new railroad would go. About September in 1887 the line of the new railroad was determined and a town was laid out in the SE % of S-34, T-8, R-43, where the John Lueken farm is now located. Quite a little city sprang up with a few frame buildings and many tents. Among those located in tents was Mavnard E. Cooke who operated a drug store. This store was later the moved to Old Burlington, then to the present site of the Dunn Garage and later to the Weinandt and Brown building, where it is still continued. This is probably the oldest business in the county and during the fifty years has had only four different managements. The men in control of the Rock Island Railroad (or Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad as it was the known) decided that a town should be located where Burlington is at present and purchased a tract of school Iand from the State and laid out the town. The town was platted and owned by Mr. R.S. Newell and C.F. Jilson, Trustee. Mr. Jilson was trustee for a group of Rock Island officials and controlled 51 percent ofthe town site. Previous to this time the town of Lowell had been laid out in what we now know as "Old Burlington" and by a compromise :rilrrl 'i*,,,.. ',:,)a?;:. r:i'], ::li. fll!:ll i**"@' This picture was taken in 1902 of the Burlington, Colorado town band. The large 2 story building in backcentei of picture is the Stockgrowers Bank building. Left to right: 1. F.N. King, 2. Hainline, 4. Harvey Cluphf, 5 Hubert Buchle, 9. Firm Moore, 13 Harrison, 15, Roy Hills. arrangement the settlers on Sec. 34 moved their business establishments to Lowell, which was replatted and the name changed to Burlington. This proved to be a very short lived affair as the town of New Burlington, with its depot, drew all the business houses from Burlington. Among the buildings moved to the new site were the Montezuma Hotel, the Ned Brown pump house, Buchanan Cream Station, Wilson Printing office and the corner building adjoining, and the Dunn Cream station. At first the business houses were arranged along Senter Avenue and a line of small buildings occupied by cafes and small stores fronted the main stem where the Vogt residence and the telephone office now stands. For a long time the Block from the Montezuma south and that across the street were the principal business locations. The Ned Brown building was one of the first pretentious buildings erected and that was practically the only building on that side of Main street north of Senter Avenue. Eight separate plats have gone to make up the building of Burlington. First was the plat of Burlington on the present Lueken farm �lL&l. ::t, r lt il'f.a.& *.1" that he "was a wolf'and it was his night to howl. He generally would end up in the city Bastille repenting at leisure. During the year 1887 while Lowell, afterwards Burlington was growing up there were about forty buildings in the town. The Burlington Blade was the first newspaper and was owned and operated by the Townsite Company in the name of Senter and Donelon and with E.P. Worcester as Editor. The first issue came out on May 13, 1887 and was printed at Eustis, Kansas on the press of the Eustis "Dark Horse". This paper advertised the town of Lowell as the "future County Seat of Eastern Colorado." The Rock Island railroad was , *tt;s?6r.6c.uo, Burlington, Colorado, May 19, f 9f 5. The Montezuma Hotel is on the left. The F.L. Aten building on the right us now occupied by Marion's Shoe and Dress Shop. west of town, which was abandoned and consolidated with (Old) Burlington, second was the platting of Burlington as "Lowell". Later this was replatted and Burlington was consolidated with it. Cleveland Addition was platted between the Railroad track and Burlington. New Burlington was laid out and covers the present business section of Burlington. First Addition was laid out on 240 acres to the west of New Burlington. Brown's Addition runs for a half mile along the west side of Highway No. 385 and north of the Railroad. Burlington Annex was laid out south of the highway. When the Town was incorporated the quarter section including the cemetery were included but were later separated from the corporation. by H.G. Hoskin TOWN OF BURLINGTON, COLORADO from Cheyenne Wells and from points on the B. & M railroad. Mail came from Cheyenne Wells and later from St. Francis, Kansas. The big event in the life of the town was, of course, the completion of the railroad and I believe that the first regular train went through sometime in September 1888. Some of the early merchants were Charles Lamb, who operated a general store, D. Kavanaugh, who had a hardware store about where Snyders hardware is now located, and the lumber yard, which is now the Herman Lumber Company, and others whom I will already on its way and the B., & M. Railroad was to pass thro'the town on its direct way from St. Francis to Pueblo. Surveys had already been made and there was no question but that Burlington would be a railroad junction. People coming to the New Eldorado were advised to take the B. & M. to Haigler, or the U.P. to Cheyenne Wells and then come overland. Three hack lines brought people and supplies to town. The line to Haigler, operated by G. Dederick, who made daily trip, taking ten hours; Fry and Smith made daily trips to Sherman Center, Kansas (near the present town of Goodland) taking seven hours, and Bridge and Waters who made daily trips to Cheyenne Wells. E.T. Lemieur was appointed the first Postmaster, receiving his appointment in May, 1887. I am inclined to believe, that the first mail came from St. Francis, Kansas or Haigler by stage. Burlington is too young to have gone Among the leading business houses of the new town were Hubbard and Donelan, Real Estate, Insurance and Locating: Webb and Johnston, Real Estate, Insurance and Locating. Thomas Reed, Locator; Neal Brothers and Teagarden, Loans and Real Estate; Page through the old wild west days when cowboys and Leal, Real Estate and Locating. Kirk enumerate later. shot up the town and spent the years' earnings in a few hilarious days. From the first it was a very decorous community and only occasionally did some man get the idea Hiskey and Company, Real Estate; Frazer and Cunningham, Livery (Star Livery and Feed; H. Wilson, Flour and Feed; Barlow Bros., Banking; A.J. Carpenter, carpenter; D. T256 Before the railroad was completed goods and materials were brought to Burlington First Trades Day in Burlington, June 2 thru the 14. A gathering seeking shade under the porch of the Montezuma, early 1900's, note the fabulous hats the ladies are wearing. Trades Day looking south with Aten's Store on the right. �Kavanaugh, Hardware; Joseph Eck, Liquors, Northrup Brothers, Groceries; Charley Lamb, Groceries; Page and Leal, Burlington House, A.J. Senter of Colby, Kansas was President and H.E. Weld of Candy, Kansas was Secretary of the Townsite Company. The first Hotel was a two story affair 30 x ll,ri., :,],::]'ll r.. .:.::1r., 600 feet, but I have no record of the landlord. So far as I know, this building was afterwards moved to Burlington and became the Montezuma Hotel. On May 17, 1887 the first traveling man reached the town of Burlington and sold a bill of goods to Abe Hendricks, who opened a General Store. On May 30, 1887, E.F. Bevelhimer, living west ofthe town, celebrated the first anniversary of his locating in the new country and thus gives us the date of one of the very first settlers on the Divide in the neighborhood of Burlington. Nearly all of Burlington helped him celebrate this occasion. Among business men who located within the next two years we find the following: G.W. Talley, Livery; S.K. King, Land and Loans; Bent and Mettev. by H.G. Hoskin ,:;:.., .::)aaaa:.rl *,rx8lr. l!,ri: r.r::::i;:- This is the old livery barn in Burlington which was operated by Elmer Harrison and Uncle Bud Yarnell. Photo was taken on July 4, 1900. Lt'*. .,::i1 ry% .:rp. '":: "'-. 3r ?r,ry ,"r lff . { Forth of July parade in Burlington, early 1900's. .a_ :> rb -.- ... l ,!a -.i ', lj t/: I i,l ""' a; Ir,'1 ..t I :lf t trl 'Jr 4, --/- ".t": 'l -/i\r\(/1, ,r.,. ;r\'")r-. �1920's, inside the livery barn, your favorite garage. p i,3 Main Street (14th St.) F.L. Wren, Spot Cash Store on left with Les Gain's Drug Store and Hainline's Barber Shop. To the right, A.L. Anderson's Garage and the Montezuma Hotel. TOWN OF BURLINGTON, COLORADO ::i!; :; t1 i-$ with Mayor T.F. Sutton presiding. The Trustees were T.G. Price, H.E. Neal, D. Kavanaugh, M. Wilson, M.E. Cooke and C.W. Tallev. The Armory built in L927, is standing today. Remember the dances held here? T257 Their first action was to elect the following city officers, to wit: T. Ellis Browne, Recorder; S.K. King, Attorney; A. Douthit, Marshal; I.D. Cary, Treasurer and M.P. Worcester, as Farm Loans, Burlington Lumber Company; Neal Brothers and Cement, Attorneys; Northrup and Penfold, Groceries (Change from Northrup Brothers) I.B. Cary and Company, Land; Bean, Jeweler; City Drug Store; Palace Saloon; B.F. Kaiser, Blacksmith; T.J. Jones, Attorney; Clements and Edwards, Attorneys. The State Bank was organized with the following directors: R.S. Newell, President; D.S. Harris, Vice President; J.E. Barlow, Cashier; C.H. Brown; F.K. Brown. On August 16, 1888 the first Board of Trustees of Burlington met in regular session Big snow in 1923, Della Hendricks writes on back of photo, "I could not visit schools until April." Magistrate. Three Ordinances were passed, the first referring to City officers, their duties, salaries and bonds; the second relating to animals running at large and the third as to the meeting of the Board of Trustees. At the second meeting held on August 27, 1888, ordinance No.4 relating to misdemeanors and ordinance No. 6 relating to drays, hackmen, etc, were passed and Ordinances No. 5 and 7 were laid over. Dog tags were ordered. At the third meeting held the next day, Ordinances No. 5 and 7 were duly passed. The first related to saloons and the second to nuisances. The town marshal, A. Duthit, w ttzr 11 * I:1 : resigned and was allowed his salary of $5.00 which was the first money paid out by the city. E.P. Worcester of the Burlington Blade presented a bill for printing in connection with the organization of the city, in the sum of $48.45; T.G. Price presented a bill for $23.80 for services as election judge and for carrying ballotbox and returns to Kiowa; J.E. Barlow presented a bill for $42.00 for funds advanced to the County Judge of Elbert County at Kiowa, and dl bills were allowed. On September 11, 188, a saloon license was granted to C.H. Mattox and on the next day one was granted to W.T. Campbell. On the 17th of September Trustees Price, Cooke and Neal were appointed a Committee to see about a cemetery matters. At the same time they were instructed to look into the matter of a calaboose. On the 22nd of September the Cemetery Committee was authorized to employ a surveyor to lay out the ten acres in the Northwest corner of the NE % of Sec. 36, T-8, R-44, which had been given to the City by the Townsite Company, to fence the seme to see to the title. Armistice Day Parade with the American Legion marching by, 1936. The first relief expense paid by the City was on November 19. 1888 when the Trustees �Charlie Davis pool hall in Burlington. Davis is identified as the middle man in the group of three gathered around the pool table. If taken during Prohibition days 1918-1936, bottles on right contained only soft drinks or near beer. trough to be installed. The new Board elected in 1890 composed of C.A. Gilmore, Mayor; D. Kavanaugh, Richard Clarke, B.S. Barndollar, M.E. Cooke, W.W. Paisley and M.S. Murphy as Burlington City Park in the 1920's, remember the "fountain" in the center of the park? Trustees. allowed a bill for $7.00 for board, lodging and telegrams for two boys who had been on the the town under the neme of First Addition On September 9, 1890, 240 acres on the west side of New Burlington were annexed to city's hands for three days. At the next meeting, as the warrant had not been issued, the City fathers apparently thought better about the item and instructed the Clerk to turn the bill over to the County. A variety of matters came before the Board of Trustees in the next few months, among which were the following: Asking the different fraternal orders about having a part of the cemetery set aside for their use. Petitions for a new County, which Burlington wished to be 30 miles square; adopting the name Fair View for the Ceme- tery; setting a price for cemetery lots and setting aside a Potter's Field. Securing a site for a calaboose, etc. At the election in April 1889, a new Board was elected consisting of D. Kavanaugh, G.W. Talley, G. Myers, Robert Clarke, LB. Cary and T.G. Price as Trustees and T.J. Jones ag Mayor. As this time bids were asked for the construction of sidewalks and the successful bidder agreed to build sidewalks for 22 cents a running foot for sidewalks 2 feet wide and 29 cents for walks 3 feet wide. At a meeting on September 17, 1889 bids for city printing were received from the Kit Burlington in the early 1930's. Taken from the water tower, notice the newer buildings. Carson County Advocate, the Burlington Bommerang and the by II.G. Hoskin TOWN OF BURLINGTON, COLORADO T268 Burlington Blade, and the Blade, backed by the Townsite Company, took the job. Mr. G.W. Talley presented a bill for services as Marshall and the clerk shows in his records that the bill was sent back to Mr. Talley with a request that it be "itemized". In April 1890, the Board made arrangem- ents with the Railroad Company to secure water from their well and ordered a city horse View of Burlington from the top of the courthouse. Left the John Guthrie home, Burt Ragan home, chautauqua tent. 2nd row: John Esch, J. Upton, Grant Mann's barn. 3rd row: E. Hoskins Sr. home, Roscoe Hotel and the Frank Mann Building. �to Burlington. A part of this tract had been homesteaded by Rachel Van Winkle and a part had been purchased by the Townsite Company from the State of Colorado. This Iand was sold at first for $3,000 and by successive transfers to different parties fi- nally reached a price of $50,000. This was laid out in 83 blocks containing approximately 2500 lots and the owners began an intensive campaign to give away the lots. Advertisements were run in the Police Gazette, and lots were given to people in every section of the Union. An additional tract was laid out in the E Vz of t}:,e E % of Section 36, and was given away under the same plan. An Abstract of Title was furnished with each lot free of all charges but was incorporated in the deed of conveyance to the victim. All he was asked to do was to have the deed recorded in the office ofthe County Recorder. The advertising consisted of letters from parties who had been given lots and which they had later sold for as much as $250 per lot. For a while business was good. Something over a thousand lots were given away and each party getting a lot paid the promoter $5.00 as a recording fee. He then split with the other promoters. About this time the Postal Department began to investigate the matter and the whole thing collapsed. Along in 1890 and for several years there after the town adopted a unique method of killing two birds with one stone. The Rock Island was asking an annual payment of from $125 to $150 for water supplied to the town and the funds to pay the railroad the town would authorizethe sale ofa warrant for $250 to the highest bidder and the saloon keeper usually bought it in for 50 cents to 60 cents on the dollar. Then the town accepted the warrant at face in payment of the saloon license fee. This was regularly done up to 1897. Warrants were sold to John Hiller. E.E. Bevelhimer and Carter Gutshall and others. At the election held on april 8, 1898, Mrs. Annie Newell and Mrs. P.B. Godsman were elecf,ed as Trustees, and Mrs. Jennie Long was elected by the Board as City Clerk. In TOWN OF BURLINGTON, COLORADO T259 and several horses were destroyed along with the barn. During this year the windmill and water tanks were removed from the middle of Main Street. A well was dug and the windmill was placed over it and the first efforts made to improve the cemetery. Also at this time, the Town Council started on an orgy of spending by raising the Town Clerk's salary to 95.00 per month. Every indication pointed to the fact that the town was growing up. Cement sidewalks, quarantine regulations, ordering all hogs out of town, taking the windmill and tank out of Main Street, all pointed to some kind of a new birth. A new and modern Hotel was projected to built by a group of citizens and the town was asked to deed the two lots that had been obtained from Mr. Newell to the Hotel Cooperation and take stock in payment. A The depot in the 1940's. The newly Organized Stock Growers Bank was named as the meeting place. The Town Clerk received a tremendous salary of $2.00 per month. On May 11, 1903, the Town bought 300 feet of 1 % inch fire hose and a cart and this was the beginning of the world famous Fire Department. In December, 1903 an epidemic of scarlet fever ravaged the country taking several lives, and the Mayor of Burlington issued a proclamation forbidding any person who had been exposed to the fever from entering the town and appointing a special officer to enforce the order. In the spring of 1904, an epidemic of small pox broke out and raged for several months. At the 1906 election, George O. Gates was elected Mayor and during his administration the first cement sidewalk was laid. Also. the Town had its first serious fire when the old Boyles Livery Barn, which was located on the corner just south of the John Penny home, was destroyed. Much valuable equipment call was issued for a special election for waterworks bonds. Mr. Winegar offered to trade block 8 to the town for the two lots owned by the town, and after some argument the offer was accepted. Waterworks bond was carried by a decisive vote. Apparently Burlington was no longer a train stop for the Rock Island railroad. It had grown up. by H.G.Iloskin NEW BURLINGTON BUSINESSES T260 April 1961, activity reached a peak in Burlington during the past week. In addition to the new businesses, several new homes are under construction in every section of the town. T.W. Backlund announced this week that he would open Thursday March 20 at his new location just east of the V.F.W. Post Home on Rose Ave. Backlund's formerlv located on May, for some reason, Mrs. Godsman resig- ned as trustee and was immediately reelected to the same place by the board. The Townsite Company deeded the two lots north of the present Winegar building to the city as a site for town buildings. These are the lots later traded to Mr. Winegar for the '' city park site. Apparently no election was held in the years 1899, 1900 and 1901. There were no meetings of the Board of Trustees from April 2, 1900 to October 1, 1900. At the election held in April 2, 1900, Mrs. Boyles and Etta Rogers were candidates for a position on the Board of Trustees and the election resulted in a draw. The two ladies drew straws for the office and Mrs. Boyles was the lucky party. The other members of the Board were J.W. Sparks, Mayor; A.W. Winegar, A.V. Jessee, J.S. Penfold, J.L. Eaches and Mrs. Maggie Sparks. W.D. Selder was elected as Town Treasurer. E.C. Baker as Town Clerk. by H.G. Hoskins Burlington Depot built in the 1890's. The ladies of Burlington would carry their lunches and wait for the trains to come in so they could visit with the passengers while the train filled with water. This way they kept up with the news of the world around them. �Celebrating the end of World War II in August of 1945. View taken from top of elevator, many new cars were damaged in this accident. 14the St., will continue with the Dodge line of trucks and cars with Case, Farmhand, and Oliver farm equipment as well as complete maintenance. The new structure, a Stan- Steel building, was constructed by Wes Holmes Const. Co. of Burlington. The parts department and offices are Iocated in the south of the building along with the showroom and the shop is located in the rear with access doors on the east. King Motor Co., too will move in the near future from its present location at 502 14the St. to the building formerly occupied by Jack's Body Shop at 1700 Rose Ave. "The move amounts to better service to customers as we will have a much larger working space," Gathering scrap for the war effort. Perry Wilson and John Esch are on the right. said V.R. (Bud) King, owner, earlier this Train derailment near the Burlington Co-op in the week when questioned about the construc- 1950's. tion. On to the front of the large quonset structure. Charlie Sholes and the Foster Lumber Co. have begun the erection of a super structure 70 feet by 36 feet, which will house the show room and offices. The rear quonset, where the parts department and shop will be located is approximately 40 feet by 80 feet. King Motor Co. offers Buick and Pontiac cars and GMC trucks as well as irrigation motors. The move will enable the firm to keep the used cars along with the rest of the business, instead of seperated as in the past. King reported that the switch in business address should be completed by May 1. Construction was begun early Mon. morning, March 27,by a crew from the Burlington Building and Supply co. at a site just east of King Motor Co. to house Jack's Body and Repair Shop. Jack Cheslock, owner and operator of the shop, reported the building; 36 feet by 80 feet to be finished by May L. Work also began Mar. 20, on a new office A "dirty thirties" dust storm is moving in. You are looking north on rnain street. Note the Bank of Burlington on far right of photo. Exact year is unknown. building for R.C. Beethe, M.D., who is presently located in offices at 411 14the Street. The site of the new office which will be at the corner of 15the and Lowell, in the lot just east of the Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital. Dr. Beethe stated that he �,::i,rrtta :r- .rt rai ,.:: ..:,..,a:.,..,:a.,::: w &i*;, . 'r:., ,:. I -"t -r" Burlington Golf course and Prairie Pines Country Club. Late fall of 1987. From the period of time starting about 1910 through the 1920's we can see the development of Burlington move forward rlii. r,ri 1; :i',,.,: .r, . ... .,t:; ,;,;1.., 1::,,.; ,:l rl: ....r 'r,r. .1. . .... ;:.y; and climaxing during the 1920's. The construction of the buildings that are remaining today such as the buildings on the four corners of 14th and Senter Street and the Winegar building, the Davis Garage where Ben Franklin Store is now, the Penny Burlington's first swimming pool on the corner of Senter and 18th Street built in 1935-37 as a WPA project needed a new office with better lighting and BURLINGTON HISTORY newer facilities. The building is being built by L.C. Kelly and Sons of Denver. Another new establishment which will be open to the public soon is the V and L DriveIn Cafe, owned and operated by Virgil Dixon, and located at the corner of Highways 24 and' 385 in Burlington. The building and the booths were constructed by the Colorado Mobile Homes of Stratton, with Dixon doing the finish work himself. The drive-in will celebrate its grand opening this Sat. April 1, with free coffee and doughnuts to adults and free ice cream cones to the children. The drive-in will seat 20 people inside, will feature everything from steaks to sandwiches with fountain service as well. The establishment will be open from 6 am. to 10 pm. each day and the phone number is 271. by Janice Salmans T261 sURLINGTON aleurag lo Colorado rAMOLjS w, . FqN IHTAT ..C AT TLT . b:, Welcome to Burlington' 1956' . t: building where Vance's Decorating is pres- ently located and most of the other buildings up and down "Main Street" as it was called then were constructed during this period. What a legacy of that time is left for us. 1917 brought on the threat of the first World War and the registration lists that were published were a reminder of the population that was present in the county and towns in this area. The rural population was much higher in proportion to the cities than it is today proving that if the agriculture industry prospered the towns prospered too. That can be proved today. Fun activities were the annual County Fair, Chautauquas, community variety shows and productions, and the movies. Saturday night band concerts came into being sometime during this period of time as Saturday was always the day to go to town bringing people into Burlington to conduct business and purchase needed items and recreation. There were two newspapers in town at this time owned and operated by George Wilkinson and Pat Wilson. They were always taking on the "Devil's Advocate" with each other and during this time the activities of the Ku Klux KIan were taking hold in the area causing a lot of division in the community even having political repercussions which took years to heal. The coming of Louis Vogt to Burlington early in this century, brought an era of culture that Burlington had not had before. 1926 Feb. 9 "Othello" 1927 Feb. 7 "Hamlet" 1928 Feb. 23 "Comedy of Errors" 1929 Feb. 14 "The Merchant of Venice" 1930 Feb. 26 "Macbeth" :r:.:ii, rl],!1.r;ial t ,....t::..: 1931 Feb. 19 "Othello" (at Colorado Springs) 1932 Feb. 10 "As You Like It" The above plays were well attended by people all over the county and beyond. Mr. Vogt built a two-story house east of the Montezuma hotel and the building now called "The Midway". 14th Street in 1956 looking north, taken by Willard Gross. �,a;ii. i.lr::) :l:irrr .: i.r,.i, ili i"* l::'6 Ss r- !!i i;; r.:;.11i* This picture was taken in November 1957. Looking south over the Town of Burlington. Fair grounds are in the lower right corner of the picture. The wide street with all the cars parked on it is 14th Street (Main Street). Note old water tower at north end of street. ffi'*v'' ;**' x:w a \*e . :a" * '=.--;-".-l f. .,..:',' ,:,: *Jei ':'*'lo 74t_:7, -1 nl'J. tj. I - r'.r:' '.a �*,,*,"sfflT' ': #ft+fl; ii, l;l \-*"' This picture was taken in October, 1g58. Vantage is looking north with Highway 24 in foreground. 14th Street is in center of photo. Note the K.C.C. Memorial Hospital and the Armory in middle of picture. BURLINGTON HISTORY The County Commissioners bought the T262 Carousel in 1928 which proved to very detrimental to their political careers at the time and under circumstances bevond their control. Today proves that there is always a rainbow after the storm with the counties Carousel recognized as an Historic Landmark of the nation. It's location in Burlington has helped the town as well as the county. The 30's will always live in the hearts of those who lived through them with the f financial losses from the closing of the Stock Growers Bank as well and the drought that set in this area. Even small towns suffer when there are national disasters. In this area the loss of revenue from the agriculture sector made for hard times on "Main Street" too. With the price of corn going to an all time low of 25 cents per bushel - and some only received 10 cents per bushel - it was no wonder that people burned corn instead of coal. For entertainment many people went out to the country and hunted rabbits and also looked for arrow heads and other Indian artifacts that had been uncovered by the raging winds removing the soil from the plains surrounding Burlington. Some people traded arrowheads for groceries. Politics, of course, can always provide us with entertain- . ,::,:' r.ii{i :i:r l;,i$': ti:a, .:.!irr,,, r,:i*l':' ,t,t:l ment and in 1936 a bet was made concerning the outcome of the 1936 election. As a result the town and community was given a gteat celebration with a barbeque, parade and dance. For more insight read about it in this * :r.' --'';. ''i::'' ''r.1:''r' East side of 14th Street with the Winegar building on the right. The Bakery, the Satin Petticote, Midway Theatre, Willies Flower Shoppe, Sears and the Bank of Burlington at end of block. February 1988. section. WPA projects in Burlington consisted of construction of the curbs and gutters in New Burlington. The Community Center with the gym was built and "out houses" were built �The Abbott House This is the largest home in Burlington, Colorado. It was built by the late William Abbott at a cost of $10,000 in the early 1900's. Nine apartments with two baths, heated by a Holland furnace. The house has 2t/z stories with a basement. A strictly modern home. If you buy this you are sure of living for life. It is completely furnished. Beautiful blue grass Looking south we find W.B. Drug, Mode-o-Day, Homm-Attorney, Coast to Coast, Heinz Office and Supply, The Family Practice, Vance's Decorating, and Peoples Natural Gas Co. on the east side of the street and Marion's, Lee's Barber shop and Skyland Beauty Salon, Snyder's Hardware, The Sound Center and The Prescription Center, Gracie's Crafts, Zimbelman's Jewelry, The Burlington Record and Equitable Savings, on the west. and given to the country schools. There were other small projects too but the best one was would be used. Everyone felt a part ofthe war effort. the construction of the swimming pool in 1935-37. This provided the town with lots of enjoyment for many years until the new pool was built in the 1960's. The 1940's found us again preparing for yard and hundreds of perennial flowers, shrubs and trees surround the house. A three apartment garage is adjacent to the house. Will sell on terms or take smaller house or clear land for part payment on same. This is a very desirable apartment house or would make a wonderful hospital. This ad was found in 'oHenry's Scrapbook." We do not know the year but this house is still standing and now owned by Mrs. Orma Turner. It is still a very beautiful home. war and do you remember hearing the sirens and pulling all the shades so that the town was all dark? Our imaginations went wild. Everyone helped with the scrap drives, gathering newspapers for the paper drives, Old Historic Building Changes Hands Penny Bros., became the owners of the building, just north of their store, which now houses the creamery operated by C.J. Buchanan. The purchase was made from Jacobs and Milburn, who bought the ancient landmark smashing cans and saving anything that at a land sale, held by the county. The history of the building, which is to be raised, to make roorn for an implement department of their store, is varied indeed. According to historian, H.G. Hoskin, it was a store operated bv C.A. Lamb, from 1887-1892. John Hillers took over the place for a saloon from 18931895. Later, Roscoe made it into a hotel, pool room, and soft drink parlor; from which status, it began to be leased as apartments, and cream stations. Several operators of cream stations preceded Mr. Buchanan, who has been there 3 or 4 years. This building was one of Burlington's first buildings that was erected in June, 1887. But it's passing will likely cause little regret, since l:]l;ltr.r',, 'rr. '.:i;;t{;a.i... . ' l|r.i .:ll;l:,' : r":i];r:r'ltlii]l I f''.'t-t ' ;' 't--;',,t,,''t",'ctt**;. *:i:.lt,., ,. t,' ., ',r ":"r'' " " "'' '" : i, :r,r";i;iti:i..rir:.. . '. t.:.1,r, '11,11, . ,.:,3rll' The west side of the street showing Ben Franklin, Men's Shop, Orth's, Nunn-Attorney, and The Corner cut. Februarv 1988. the Penney's will build a modern store adjoining the brick building now housing their hardware and implement building. Old Burlington Business Dr. H.M. Hayes purchased the two-story brick building on 14th St., last Saturday, in which the Burlington Hospital is located. The building also contained the Burlington Bakery, and the Red and White Grocery Store. Feb. 10. 1944. �Reed Motor Co., tractors and farn equipment Looking north we find many of the same buildings as seen in the 1940 but fronts are kept up to date and several new buildings Heritage Savings, are seen along with stop lighLs. We have come of age! Dave's Welding Shop, owned and operated by Dave Sielsky. $Yr l "'r1.,,1l.:, C.D. Reed, owner and operator of Reed Motor Co. : r1,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,1.l ,',l',:.l *l ',r',ir ;f$;f,' @ .:.- il "\ '-i ;tit ..i, ;d1 ' , |,@t"'rt' 1fr:'.,,,1i ti::r!i:,i, ,'11 The Bank of Burlington with its new exterior and the potted trees give 14the Street a prosperous look. BURLINGTON HISTORY Burlington Construction Co., Guy Ancell, operator. T263 Going to the movies at the Midway Theater and munching popcorn from the sack and watching the newsreels reporting on the war will never be forgotten. It seemed that most everyone attended them and remember the Saturday Afternoon Matinee watching Roy Rogers movies. Those were the days and the cost was 12 cents at one time. Remember the bon-fire celebrating the end of the war? Tradgedy hit the community with the disaster striking the Smoky Hill Community when the tornado destroying homes, schools and crops. The town of Burlington pitched in Sim Hudson Chevrolet, Oldsmobile and Cadillac. Christenberry's Welding and Radiator Shop. �re il Marinello Beauty Salon. Dorotha Hemmond, owner, Located in Montezuma Hotel. Burlington Telephone Office, located behind Montezuma Hotel. Guthrie Electric Shop, owned and operated by John Guthrie. This building was the original schoolhouse for the Burlington area. Carter's Produce, owned and operated by Floyd and Estie Carter. Buyers of cream and farm fresh eggs. Hotel West, located on Senter Street was once a thriving hotel and later on, a restaurant. Cowan's Produce, located on Senter Street, buyers ofcream and eggs. Lowell and Fern Cowan were the proprietors. $ {si Local Telephone operators at work. Behind the desk is Elsie Nass, and operators from left to right are marie Wood Smith, Peg Roberts, and Bonnie Warren Shamburg Real Estate, later managed by son, Bob Shamburg. Kit Carson County Abstract Co. Henry Hoskin, Abstractor. Also the home of Twrell-Hoskin Farnsworth Hendricks. Insurance. -'l Rose's Beauty Salon, operated by Rose patterson. Ebert Lynn, one ofthe original barbers in the town of burlington. He also bought animal hides during the earlier days of the town. and gathered together and helped clean up after the storm. With the dry 1930's behind them the farmers were experiencing good crops and with it brought better times for the towns. Land prices which saw a bottom of $1.50 were now bring $40, $50, and even $60 per acre. New homes were constructed and business could afford to renovate their stores and build new fronts so that main street really took on a new look. Albert Kirshmer built a one-half million bushel elevator which we thought was huge. Thomas & Thomas, Attorneys at Law. Thornton H. Thomas and Richard D. Thomas. Combine crews filled the town during harvest through July and we wondered if it was safe to go out at night with so many people about. The late 40's saw the building of the Kit Carson Memorial Hospital in Burlington which has served the community very well all these years. This was a great community effort with farmers donating wheat, clubs donated money and labor for furnishing the rooms and lots of labor in the actual building was donated, a really wonderful coming together of individuals to provide a needed �Hendricks Mortuary, Wm. R. Hendricks, County Coroner. Chuck's Service, Mobil Service operated by Chuck J.C. Pennev Co. Siehr. resource in the county. Burlington became the headquarters for many of the construction personal who were involved with the building of Bonny Dam. This influx of people made a housing shortage and the construction of houses on Bonny Drive remain with us today reminding us of this time. The Kit Carson County Courthouse was renovated and an addition added in 1950 at the cost of $190,000.00. This was a beautiful building after the construction was finished and is serving us well in 1988. The grandstand at the fairgrounds was also constructed we'e*% wwwwtrv&&&K. ITTT iih .,ffi Fl ,r MW :,:.'1'.':rllll U.S. Post Office Neil's Furniture, Neil Willirms owner. during this time and has been used for the fairs and other activities through the years with 1988 seeing the area in front of the grandstand landscaped to compliment Carousel park and provide a very attractive area for everyone to enjoy. BURLINGTON HISTORY T284 Safeway Store, Don Thompson manager. Harrison's Ford and Mercury, Hobart Harrison, Owner. \-sv :.@j f :'':,,,,{ &.' re. ; i"-;. :;__ , .,...t,,.,t ..,::.,:. ..;;:.;.* K, n dll ,ra I ffi Esch Lumber Company, owned and operated by John Esch. Tom Ambler Hardware, owned and operated by Tom and Midge Ambler Loyd's Cleaners and Clothiers, Mac Loyd, owner. Office of R.C. Beethe, M.D., Physician and Sur3urlington Locker Service, owned and operated by lliff Hoschouer. Wilbur Larson, manager of J.C. Penney Co. Where do you go today for a display of hats such as this? geon. �''H$t H! W-B Liquor in the Wilson Building on main street. Ben Franklin Store, managed by Petty Family. DeHollander's Shoe Store. G.E. DeHollander, owner. The Burlington Record, John Hudler. ''' ,,::':a: :.-:.'al ,, .: ':: Publisher. .,::: :::: :::ai -4 Standish Drug Co., John Standish, owner. ,.f A.B. Morrow, Appliances and Propane Gas. Knapp's Plumbing, Doren Knapp owner. Ww l;* Gnmbles, owned and operated by John and Faye Dr. H.M. Hayes, Physician and Surgeon. Brvner. Wilson's Gift Shop, Bessie Wilson owner. The most frightening happening was the return of the dry years to Eastern Colorado. It brought back fears of the drougth of the thirties. 1954 was the dryest year ever recorded in the history of keeping precipitation records. With the drought alway comes the horrendous winds that whip the soil into the air and create dust clouds that spawn so Kelly's Pool Hall. Williams Cafe, Lon Williams, Mgr. Recreation Basement was teen gathering place managed by Shorty Vance. {*LALVI t4 %up from Goodland, Kansas or picking up a station if the clouds were just right and ,ti. watching wrestling on Saturday nights? The changes of social habits brought about with the coming of television were never contemplated at the time. Remember Jim Gernhart .:;:;i*: ::t:.:tg. xH* .tttllt ii:i]il:1: a.::.,.ta:::,L -:.. '"t' Calvin Supply, Asa Calvin, owner. much emotional havoc and physical discomfort, that they are is never forgotten. Thanks to more advanced technology and the advent of irrigation and better farming practices and regulations this dry period did not leave the scars of the thirties for most people. The advent of television coming to town was really exciting. Remember watching the screen waiting for something to be broadcast Hayes Building conducting and celebrating his own funeral and then advertising it? The 1960's rang in a new era with so many advancements and the new crop of sugar beets that would create an environment that brought great expansion of implement dealerships, irrigation equipment and building of new businesses in Burlington. In 1965 Plateatr Natrrral Gas Oomnanv camc to town and �constructed pipe lines to serve the town and rural areas. They built a new office with the "Blue Flame Room" adjacent the business area. This was a community room and was used by the community free of charge for many years and filled a need that existed for family gatherings as well as public meetings. Word was received that our cherished Rock Island Railroad was taking out bankruptcy and would be no more. The end of what was our beginning, became a redity. After much work and hopes of keeping the rail service active the end came for the Rock Island. Later thanks to the hard work of many businesses in the area, Kyle Railroad was organized and purchased part of the track serving this area and once again in the 80's we see boxcars filled with grain moving on the rails. The completion of I-70 was realized after years of bumper to bumper traffic out here on the plains. The new high school was built in south Burlington and the new swimming pool and Parmer Park became a new source of enjoyment. Pralle Electric Shop Jack's Cleaners, owned and operated by Jack and Eunice Boyles King Motor Co., V.R. King owner. BURLINGTON HISTORY Langston's Style Shop, Walter and Hazel Langston. owners. T286 State Farm Insurance Office, S.T. Jarrett, Agent. Adolf Shoe Shop, Emmanuel Adolf, owner. Park's Jewelry and Watch Repair, H.H. Park, owner. Dunn Motor Co, A.B. Dunn owner. gaiiidi. ,..,-:.. Burlington Bakery, Harold and Gladys Clouse, rtt.r, .l.i.r. I ..:i!*u:r r, . t' 1 .,._,r. ownerg. Midway Theatre, Neil Beezley, owner. Lusch Cleaning and Laundry, alongwith Milestone giving altitude of Burlington The Middle school was built in 1971 on the west side of town. The Prairie Pines Country Club and new gold course made their appear- ance along with many new homes and a greatly expanded business community within the town. New residential areas were being filled on all sides of Burlington. New buildings were now being constructed on 14the Street changing the skyline of town making it have a up and coming look yet still having some of the old landmarks visible as you glance down the street. The 70's saw the peak of agri-business in Red & White Grocery Store, Earl and Albert Zick, owners. Burlington Dress Shop, Pauline Kloeckner, owner. �65 HAOO263!. 93 263 2A L 607. PAGE It PICTURS * grss. 63 tclPanng Halduare, Appl{a Red Front Grocery, owned and operated by the Yergin Fnmily. Park's Barber Shop, Charlie Park, barber and owner. -{f} ".k''i Penny Bros. Hardware, Appliances and Implements. Bill Yersin, owner and operator of Red Front Market. Dr. Glenn S. Flatt, Dentist, Hemmond Bros. Real Egtate and Insurance, and Harold Boland, Insurance. Masonic Hall, former building occupied by First Christian Church. this area. Land prices were at an all time high and housing costs climbed as well as interest rates in the late 70's. As we look back over this period of 100 years we see a similar pattern that has a habit of repeating itself but we can never believe that it will happen again and so in the 1980's we find that many reversals have visited us but many new things have come into being by the foresight of men and women who have a persistent belief in this community. The joint effort of town and county W-B Drug Store. Duckwall's, # 'tii'i:r brought about the Burlington-Kit Carson County Airport which culminated in a huge grand opening in the fall of 1984. Much effort was put in this project as well as in the courting of the State of Colorado for the construction of a prison facility in the community. The greatest "party" was held when Bur- J.M. McDonald, Burlington's first Department Store. Located on the ground floor ofthe Montezu- D.D. Lahey, M.D., Physician and Surgeon. ma Hotel. lington opened all doors and celebrated "Mike Lounge Day'in 1985. A hometown boy makes good is indeed reason to have such a gala occasion for everyone to participate in. The parade was one of the best in history as well as the tremendous turn out for the barbeque at the High School grounds. Truly a day to remember. The idea of "Old Town" was conceived and acted upon and today we see a fabulous tourist attraction that will hopefully provide lots of enjoyment for the community as well as visitors from around the world. It is hard to write that the stress of the agriculture industry has greatly effected this Wj.r:l% Carper's Cafe, George and Frances Carper owners. -....:.,.-r..,.i...:. . . Felzien's Cleaners and Clothine. Harold and Cecil Felzien. owners. community as well as the farmers and ranchers surrounding it but it must be noted that this areir on the great high plains has given birth to a populace that is very tough and persevering and we just don't give up �very easily and hopefully the fall of land values and real estate in Burlington has seen the bottom and is on the upswing again soon. We have experienced some of the worst blizzards and hailstorms in history these last few years and yet we repair our homes and businesses, try new ideas, reorganize, try new ventures, and take the challenge of the future with new hope. t w it*,::l;*i''i'*';qt'P: .i:.ata BURLINGTON HISTORY Strobel's Texaco, A.E. Strobel manager. Sloan's Motel, Everett and Eunice Sloan, owners. Hi-Lo Motel, J.M. Powers, manager. Miller's Phillips 66 Service. RyIe Walters Garage Fonest Miller, owner of Miller's Phillips 66 T266 The Rock Shop, owned and operated by Ralph Binard. Later became W-B Liquor, owned and operated by Cecil and Harold Felzien. Service. 'lr.'.,i.,''.l i.,:i.li.iiilll'iil..i',,i ' ,. ,',,,.r.'.:,,t,i:.i;.,irlrl.,;r., ,,,. .-r'$ Binard's's Conoco Service, Ralph Binard owner. Highway Cafe and Service, Thelma and Kenny Gray, operators. Stevens Cafe, managed by Mrs. J.V. Landers. Ellsworth Pontiac, Lee Ellsworth owner' Stevens Motel, also managed by Mrs. J.V. Landers. Chat'n Chew Cafe, Freda Schlichenmayer proprietor. It is my hope that this short overview of this community will bring back memories to you and that you will fill in the many blank spaces that have not been recorded. Time is always a factor and we do the best with what we have and hope that you will forgive us for our failings as we know that there were some very important events that have not been recorded because they have not come to mind or have not been recorded by someone over the years for our use. Without ths sqmpilation of newspaper �clippings, pictures, and other articles and the writings of Henry Hoskin, Bonny Gould, Mable Park, Irene Boger, and many others who have opened up their picture albums, keepsakes, and have shared them with us, this history could never have been accomplished by this writer. Many happenings that were not mentioned is this writing may be found in the pictures accompanying this article. We are grateful to Willard Gross and the Bank of Burlington for the record of the town in 1956 that we are sharing with you. Pictures can say so much more than words. V.F.W. Post Home. Burlington Liquor, Arthur Wittmuss proprietor. Sinclair Service, Bud Bolin manager. Dairy Queen, R.V. Johnston, owner. BURLINGTON MAYORS T2B7 Dillon Oil Co.. H.C. Dillon owner. Busby's Frontier Service Skelly Service, Junction of Highway 24 and Lincoln. Hi-Lo Jr. Motel, J.M. Powere, manager. Lyle Busby, owner of Busby's Frontier Service. Smith's Service, E.H. Smith owner. H.G. Hoskin 1912-13 T.G. Price 1914 F.L. Bergen 1916-18 Hank Schell 1919-20 George O. Gates 1921 John S. Boggs to Sept. 1922 F.W. Kukuk from Oct. tg22 to Mav 192b C.D. Reed 1925 C.E. Roller 1926 O.H. Loomis 1927 Beeson Oil Co. T.F. Sutton 1888 T.J. Jones 1889 C.A. Gilmore 1890 H.E. Metting 1891 J.W. Sparks 1902-03 Wyatt Boger 1904 William Abbott 1905-06 George O. Gates 1908-10 Burlington Building and Supply, Kenneth Bishop and Wesley Holmes, owners. J.M. Swenson 1928 R.E. Hook 1929 Orin P. Penny 1930-31 J.W. Alexander 1932 J.D. Brown 1934 T.W. Backlund 1936 Wm. H. Jacobs 1938 J.M. Chalfant 1942 �Henry Hoskin 1946 R.W. Plummer 1948 Harold McArthur 1950 R.C. Binard 1956 Harold McArthur 1958 Gene Williamson 1960 Harold McArthur 1964 Bill Yersin 1968 Rol Hudler l970-Currently mayor in 1988 and serving the longest term in the history of Burlington. Hart-Bartlett Sturdevant Grain Co., Carl Bauder, Burlington Livestock Sales Co., Ditus Brox. owners Manager. and operators. Gassner's Conoco Bulk Delivery R.I. Gassner, Aerial view of Burlington Basebal Park and Kit OUTLYING BURLINGTON BUSINESSES T268 owner. Carson County Fairgrounds. New Burlington Equite Co-op Elevator, located on Railroad Ave. Standard Oil Co., Bill and Russ Wilcox, owners. Dickineon's Grocery Store, Wm. Dickinson owner. G.R. Schlosser of Schlosser's Concrete. Gold Bond Hatchery, C.G. Gould, owner. Plains Grain Co., Jim Rawson, Mgr. Skate Bowl, skating rink and bowling alley, owned and operated by C.G. Gould. Standard Milling Company built by A.G. Kirschmer. Old Burlington Equity Co-op Elevator and Feed Facility at the north end of 14the St. �--g %" The Country Ware House owned and operated by the Fundingsland farnily. This building was the original Fost€r Lumber Company building. Foster Lumber Company near the downtown area. Gordon Hamit, Mgr. fi Baker-Pischke Ford, owned and operated by Bob Baker and George Pischke. Kit Carson Motel, located on Highway 24 in east ... - -.- t\: t- . i r,r i. it&r ir i L i t: l ltl ti ,{,., l:, .ii !' .L tl 1r.., 1l -- l: ::t:t - - : _:a:'' 'I li,.i il :i: ;ll : ii T269 Burlington. I iii CURRENT MAP OF BURLINGTON lr. _:i: �tl IIOLD BURLINGTON I MAP BURLIIiIGTON Furnished by 6 R. L. WILKINSON COUNTY ASSESSOR Kit Carson CountY c! cl'Rso[ cffiIY FAIR MOUtr}S ffiffiffi ffitrif', Wffi HH FllF=1 F44 EA wl,ffi brs Effi wFe ffiH :tZE Wffi ffiffiffi ffi AB "ffiffi ffi ffiwffiffi :HH' i- Old Map of Burlington - 1920's MUNICIPAL POWER PLANT T27r Prior to the year of 1920, the town of Burlington was served electrically by a franchise gas and electric company which was privately owned. Carbide gas was used for Burlington Light and Power Plant as it was in 1956. some street lighting and cooking. Electricity was used for main street lighting and some residential lighting. In 1920, the consumer demand for electric- ity had increased tremendously and the privately owned franchise asked the town to assume control of the operation as it was not possible for them to keep up with the demand. Pete Cha-bers, left and Frank Sulivan stand by boiler for first steam engines in the Burlington Power Plant. The plant had two Corliss steo- engines to produce electricity installed in 1920. In January of 1920, the town installed two Corliss steam engines with coolers. Cost of the two engines totaled $44,493. In 1921, the town completed the building which now houses the generators we use for stand by purposes only. It was constructed at a cost of $14,604.92. Two additions have been added to the building since it was completed. The steamers purchased in 1920 proved to be adequate until 1933 when the town council purchased two Fairbanks Morse diesels at a anst nf IRAO OOO Onc diasel wns s f.wo cvlinder �140 horse power and the other a four cylinder, 180 horse power engine. In 1937 a 6 cylinder Fairbanks Morse was installed at a cost of $38,900. and in 1947 another Fairbanks Morse unit was purchased for $82,000. A switch board was purchased for $25,000. In October of 1950 another Fair- banks Morse unit was purchased for $151,500. In March of 1960 a White eight cylinder was bought for $233,137. The city purchased an Enterprise 12 cylinder at the cost of$405,000 with the present switchboard being purchased at the same time. August of 1969 saw another Enterprise installed at a total of $4357,310. Burlington is one of six towns and cities in Colorado that own their own electrical facili- ties in the 1960's. The late 70's brought changes that resulted in purchasing power from Public Service of Colorado. by Les Mclain BANKS IN BURLINGTON This picture was taken around 1912-15. The gentleman is Henry G. Hoskin, father of Henry Y. Hoskin who owns the Kit Carson County Abstract Co. The bank was the Stockgrowers State Bank. T272 One of the first "classie" buildings on Main Street, Organized in 1901. Bert Ragan, right, in tellers window. This is the State Bank Building where the Stock Growers bank moved into after the Stat€ bank closed. Now Bank of Burlington. Stock Growers State Bank Earlv 1900's Burlington State Bank - organized in 1908 Officers: Frank Mann - President Wyatt Boger - Vice President Geo. Gates - Cashier Bank failed December 1922 Stock Growers State Bank organized by Winegar and Weare in 1901 W.D. Selder Cashier. At first a private Bank. In 1910 named Stock Growers. Warren Shamburg came from Goodland in 1915, to be the cashier. Bank failed October 3, 1931. Bank of Burlington organized by a group of citizens and Mrs. Tubbs. The Earliest Banks were: Bank of Burlington 1887 The Bank was owned by parties from Illinois. It voluntarily suspended in 1890 and paid depositors in full. The Robert Clark Bank was the first Bank after 1890 and after Robert Clark became ill, Albert Clark paid depositors in full and closed the bank. The former Hainline building occupies the site of Clark's Bank. The First National Bank organized by E.G. Coombs in 1919, suspended and accounts transferred to Stock Growers. no losses. by Editors The Stock Growers Bank was located in the building on the corner of Senter and 14 Street where The Corner Cut is now. Standing at the counter is E.C. Baker on the left and W.D. Selder on the right. Others are unknown. �WINEGAR BUILDING T273 Iowa. After Selder sold out, Winegar continued under the name of A.W. Winegar Real Estate Company. The company was one of the oldest business firms in town and operated out of the Winegar Building until 1928. the Fundingsland Real Estate Office, and Dr. Courtney's office. Later during the 1940's the The First National Bank of Burlington, run by Winegar's son-in-law, Edwin S. Combs, was located in half of the ground floor space when it opened in 1907, and the Penfold in the building. Grocery Store, one of the first grocery stores in town, occupied the other half. In 1917, Winegar added on to the rear of the building for apartments. A second alteration in 1920 resulted in the front portico and The Courtney (Winegar) building in the 1950's. The Winegar Building is significant for its association with A.W. Winegar, one of the original settlers in Burlington, and a prominent businessman, and as a landmark struc- ture in Burlington. Burlington, located on the outermost eastern edge ofthe state was incorporated in 1888 and is the largest town (1985 population: 3116) in Kit Carson County. It is located in the heart of deep well irrigation, and is a trade center as sell as a center for agriculture, enclosed second story porch. No further alterations occurred on the building, and except for the replacement of some window panes with glass brick, the building appears exactly as it did during the 1920's. The Real Estate business became poor during the late 1920's, and in 1928, the Capital Life Insurance Company was forced to foreclose on A.W. Winegar. The building Selder and others, he started the First Emmigration Company in the county for the purpose ofacquiring land cheaply and selling to immigrates from kansas, Nebraska and by M. Hasart THE BURLINGTON SCHOOL SYSTEM T274 founded in 1901 by H.G. Weare, W.D. Selder, and A.W. Winegar. The bank was the first eastern Colorado, namely the town of Burlington, school opened on Dec. 26th of 1887. One of the rooms of the Montezuma Hotel served the purpose with Mary Davis as the business in Burlington and remained a private bank until 1910. The Depression was hard on the residents effects of the Dust Bowl Era. As was often the case, businesses closed and banks failed. commercial district. Built in 190 by A.W. Winegar at the cost of $30,000, the building is unique with its classical detailing and light colored brick. A.W. Winegar was instrumental in the establishment of Burlington. along with W.d. years, the building has served as apartments for Mexican immigrates. The building is now vacant and has been vandalized. Following a meeting to organize a school district in the newly established area of economically depressed, Burlington has nev- largest and one of the oldest structures in the to Daniel McCraken who in turn sold the building to Gray Hooper in 1978. In recent two local businessmen. Shamburg was the manager of the Stock Growers State Bank, and businesses in Burlington, as it came at the same time the farmers were fighting the er grown into a major city. It's three block commercial district is dominated by small, plain, one and two story brick structures. The Winegar Building occupies a corner location at the center of town, and is the Dr. Courtney continued to own the build- ing and operate his doctor's office on the second floor until in 1970's when he sold it was sold to C.D. Reed and Warren Shamburg, cattle, medical services, education, and recre- ation for the eastern plains. While not VFW held its meetings and activities in the basement of the building. During the 1950's, the National Farm Loan Office was housed The Stock Growers State Bank failed in 1931 and Warren Shamburg was forced to convey his share of the Winegar Building to the State Bank commission who was in charge of the liquidation of the bank. The Deputy Banking Commissioner turned around and sold the half interest to C.D. Reed for $500 in 1932. During Reed's ownership, Doctor Robinson operated a hospital on the second floor of the building. Reed sold the building in 1943 to Dr. Roy F. Courtney who had moved to Burlington at the start of World War II. At the time, occupants of the building included J.A. Ragan, who ran a cream station, first teacher. Thirty-five youngsters were "herded" to school that opening day by their parents in hopes that it would, to dome degree, curb the "prairie wild spirit". At least they would know the children's whereabouts, and by chance something useful might be taught during the duration of the term. Ranging in ages from six to sixteen, most of them came from the small town, with a few coming from the homes of settlers around Burlington. The school was established under very trying circumstances. Burlington, located in the eastern part of the state, was over one hundred miles from the county seat, which was then Kiowa, Colorado. There was no direct rail lines, and the wagon roads were poor to say the least. Laws at this time did not provide for the building of schools, the payment ofsalaries, erpenses, and free books in the same manner as later became law and 1::" .rllfr.fiit,'iii..l '. Main street in the 1920's with the Winegar building at left of picture. rule. Nevertheless, the children were present in numbers, every settler and town resident providing their full quota, and the children did need some education. A small frame building was built in 1890, measuring about 18x30 feet. Rows of pine desks, extended in one piece clear across the room, with a bench built on the front for the next row of students. It took a teacher of more than average ability to manage eight grades of children, fresh from the prairies, many with cactus in their shoeless feet. The playground was an open lot with unlimited amounts of buffalo grass, laced occasionally with a cactus or two. Many modes of entertainment originated from this "lot", such as show and tcll with your favorite pet prairie dog, someone else bringing their pet coyote pup, or sometimes an owl or even an occasional rattlesnake. Since many of the children rode their native ponies to school, an occasional pony race during recess was not uncommon. A wise, teacher, while not approving, had to look upon these things with apparent interest, and await the time when the objection could be eliminated. This mode of education sufficed until the � https://kccarchives.cvlcollections.org/files/original/16/408/Burlington_2.pdf 197c3bd517666d3feecfe85ccaad75ec PDF Text Text students were already meeting in other meeting places in the town. The north half of the school building was erected in 1916, with another similar half being added in 1919, under the contractor of the late J.A. Haughey. This addition doubled the capacity of the building, as well as modernized it to the tune of $150,000. The building now housed all 12 grades, Home Economics, as well as a gymnasium. After only 2 years of use, in January of 1923, it was destroyed by fire. The books and equipment from 3 of the 26 furnished roome were saved. Many of the townspeople, as well as the local fire department, answered the alarme thatwere sounded, helping in any way possible. Since there was no pumper available, with the low water pressure they were unable to get water to the top floor, and by morning the magnificent structure was de- Burlington School before it burned in 1924. stroyed. However, the pioneering spirit of the community was still alive, and school reopened on January 14, with classes being held in Chicago, Kansas and Nebraska Railroad announced that the Rock Island route would build their line through Burlington to Colorado Springs and Denver. After much surveying, the route was set to run just north of the old town of Burlington. When the county was organized on May the District Courtroom of the Courthouse, the Methodist and the Christian churches, 3,1889, an election was held. The issues were building a courthouse for $5,000 and/or a schoolhouse for $4,000. Both measures passed. Free lots had to be given for schools, churches, as well as a courthouse. Roff & Roff were the contractors chosen to build the two-story building our of brick. C.A. Eatinger, who had filed a homestead southeast of Burlington on the Beaver Creek, was one of the workmen hired to burn the brick on the south side of Beaver Creek south and east ofBurlington. In later years he wrote, "I feel I have an interest in your school. The contractor dsqemped without paying his help." The first record of a graduation was in 1908, being from the eighth grade. by Bonnie Witzel BURLINGTON SCHOOLS During the school year 1911-1912 the total enrollment was 129 students, with 13 eighth grade graduates. Highschool students numbered 15, but no graduates as yet. The next year enrollment reached 155 with 7 students completing the eighth grade and 3 graduating from highschool. Highschool enrollment climbed to 26. 1914-1915 brought a total of 173 students with 30 of them in highschool. In a period of 5 years the school enrollment had increased more than 50 percent. Upon consolidation of districts 16 and 18, it was determined that a larger facility was certainly needed, as some of the gradeschool Co. purchased 4 new schoolbuses to transport rural children to school. By 1930 the enrollment had climbed to 348 student. During the 1930's the Mabel Parke family donated a block of real estate to be used as a football field and for the vocational Agriculture Department. This property was used until the new highschool was built, and was known as Walters-Hudson Field. December 20, L945, brought about the only serious bus accident in the history of the school. A 1941 Chevrolet cloth topped bus with 13 children and a driver rolled south of T275 The first school b0ilding at Burlington, was later the Guthrie Electric Shop, located east ofthe Hotel West. One of the first four school buses used to transport the students from rural areag. They were furnished by C.D. Reed of Reed Motor Company. the Odd Fellows and American Legion Halls, The school was rebuilt and opened the following fall. Enrollment had grown to 400 students, and was taken care ofwith a faculty of 16 teachers. A new superintendent, N.N. Stevenson, was hired at a salary of 92600. September of 1923 introduced Physical Training into the regular cirriculum with a regular teacher. All students were required to take the course. This same year C.D. Reed of Reed Motor The first half of the school building was erected in 1916. This facility replaced the 2-story brick building which was built for $4000. �tary force behind this construction was the five ladies on the Library Board whose determination made a dream come true. Carolyn King, Pearl Schell, Estella Penny, Bessie Wilson and Minta Coleman worked tirelessly on the board for many years. The first Burlington Public Library was established by the Inter Sese Club in 1921 and was located in the old school building near the current sight of the Community Center and Elementary School on 11th Street and Senter. It was operated there until a fire burned the school over Christmas vacation in 1923. Most of the books were saved. It reopened in 1924 in a city owned structure once used as a power house located at 608 l4the Street near the old train depot which is now the Radio Room and City Police Department at the north end of 14th Street. The remains of the school building, following a late night fire in January of 1923. The completely remodeled school had only been in use for 2 years at the time. Burlington on then Highway 51 (now 385), injuring several of the children. Fortunately all recovered. The contract for bus transportation was to Sim Hudson Mtr. Co. The fall of 1960-61, the school was changed from a Class B school to Class A through state reorganization. In 1961 the district became District RE-6J with the final consolidation of the districts. In 1965 all class A schools became Class AA. A special bond election was held in May of 1963 with the proposal of a new grade and highschool facility of $895,000. Maher-Bonny Construction of Aurora was the successful bidder. The highschool was relocated south of Highway 24, and was put into operation in January of 1965. in 1971 the bid for the proposed Middle School, to be located in west Burlington, went to Carson-Crider & Speicher of Wray. Hobart Harrison, through contract with the Burlington School system, furnished bus transportation from 1946 until 1971. Follow- Program. Our community has indeed been fortunate in the past, to have had people who were able to see the possibilities and the capabilities of children. We have educated future businessmen, farmers, doctors, lawyers, secretaries, homemakers, and yes, an astronaut. Does this make any one of them more special than the rest ofthem? Certainly not, because each has excelled in their own realm in their own way. Why? Because our forefathers had a vision, and they pursued it. Yes, they felt we all needed an education to face the world. by Bonnie Witzel BURLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY T276 1959, Quo Vadis club with president Crystal Schlosser was in charge of the program and hostess for the day. Accepting the building for the town was Mayor Harold McArthur. Mrs. Esther Winfrey was the librarian, preceeded by Mrs. H.G. Hoskin serving as librarian from 1923 until 1945 and Miss Phyllis DeHollander who served in this capacity for several years. Since 1975 the library has improved with help and ideas from librarians, their assistants, the Library Boards, state and public. several grants, individual and club donations as well as money making activities. Fannie Hoschouer took over as librarian after Esther Winfrey retired in 1962 and served until 1984. Della Yersin was appointed and approved by the Library Board and City Council at that time. Special programs for adults are planned through out the year. Some of these are By 1973 enrollment had reached 1011 students from kindergarten through 12the grade. Through 100 years, the cirriculum hag The old Library at the north end of 14th Street. The l5the day of February marked the laying of the cornerstone at the new home of the Burlington Public Library on the corner of 15the Street and Senter. Ethel Sloan, president of Zonta Club, was master of ceremonies and responsible for the program for this cornerstone ceremony. This club also provided the contents of the time capsule that was to be placed inside the cornerstone that day. thanks to the dedication of their directors. The Zonta Club joined all other service clubs ofthe area along with private donations the need, as has the Gifted and Talented contributing funds towards the construction of this fine library. The single most contribu- Special Education has been developed to fill In 1958 with little help from the City of Burlington and only a handful of interested people, the five ladies on the Library board did everything necessary to secure construction loans for their dream project, "A new Library". William McKinnley helped draft the plans for the building with the Burlington Construction Company actually doing the work. At a cost of $20,000.00 the new Library was finished. The furnishings cost $4,700.00 and the time to move in was here. Dedication of this new facility was April 12, with thank yous to the City Council, state, hired. Model U.N. teams have entertained and excelled beyond their greatest expectations, to expand and upgrade books and materials. The budget has grown through the years ing negotiations with him, a contract was drawn and the district purchased 13 buses and 1 wrecker for $45,000. In 1972 a Bus Garage was erected adjacent to the High School, and a transportation director was changed somewhat. Not only are the 3 R's still being taught, but a variety of other classes are being offered. Recess pony races have changed to athletics, and group singing has become concert band and choir. Burlington High School has had the honor of being State Football Champs in 1940, 1945, 1946 and 1947 and then again in 1976; State Basketball Champs in 1948; and State Wrestling Cha-ps in 1973 and 1974. This channeled lots of energy in right directions, thanks to the dedicated coaches. Band and Choirs have performed throughout the state and have received outstanding ratings, thanks to dedicated musicians. Drama, speech and In 1925, the town counsel and the Library Board agreed to let the city support the Library through taxation - so a mill or two was set aside for this purpose which helped National Library Weeks, displays, club meetings and book sales. The section which used to house museum items has been turned into the childrens reading room. It now has a weekly story time and there is a special summer reading program. Both are very popular and well attended. New check out opportunities have been added. A few of the ones now available are large print books, music and story tapes, cake pans, games and cameras. The typewriter and copy machine are available for public use. You are all invited to come in to brouse around. Look at the aquariums and talk with Dell's bird Dewey. Perhaps you may even find a book that you would like to check out. Our gratitude goes out to those who worked �Burlington Post Office 65 Year* Xgo* . ,'.:..: . ,1:: . .t;.'.A74.X F ..:,::.:.a:.:;:.,:;r.t-?a:".::.:,at:.::., Early Post Office was located in C.A. Lamb's Store. Ihe first regular train service began in Sep. of 1888. Mail service by trains continued until the early 50's, when conveyance was changed EURI"IIICTOI{ to truck and highway contracts. In the early IIBRARY 1960's, contracting was given to the air lines 0RcANllfD t92l tRfcTtD ts59 and Airmail was the mode of transporting mail 200 miles or more away from major airports. Mail inside of the 200 mile radius was by Contract Highway routes. In April 1887, a Post Office was located in the OId Burlington cite, (about where Hitchcock's is now located. at the time the site was *.'.. tl&aa:;:t:,t* known as Lowell. When the two towns . ......44.,.. ".,tle;:nr\e' .a,. 7t'f't 1,*ttir i l:,!a€:i l;;d6tr *tz ti:iiL|.:: Zonta Club officers and members, L. to R.: Mabel Park, Zonta speaker from Denver, Mary Vogt, hazel Hudson, dorothea Hammond, Ella Farwell, Ruth Morrow Billenwillms, Hazel Langston, Davie Powell, Ethel Sloan and Clara Lovd. merged the name of Burlington was given to the new township.) The Honorable Eugene T. Lemieux was commissioned to serve as the first Postmaster on April 29, 1887, and he served until May 15, 1889. The Post Office was moved to New Burlington in the month of August. During the early days Burlington was supplied and serviced nine other offices, Bonny, Newton, Norford, Wallett, Yale, Hale, Hermes, Beliot, and Cole. Only one of .^:)";,;*; these towns still exist today. This being Hale, in which the Post Office closed in 1984. Mail for those offices was delivered by horseback and buggy. Carriers of that day were: Frank Little; Berton Little; Earl James; John McCracken; Bud Yarnell; H.O. Brown; V.O. Corkly and Robert Boyles. One of the carriers is remembered as having an enclosed brggy, painted white with the wording "U.S. MALE", painted in red lettering on both sides. Joe Boyles remembers sorting mail at the "Tuttle Post Office" into pigeon holed cases open on both sides, so that the postal patron could help themselves. The location of the new Post Office was in the l\{orrow Appliance Building, (known today as 347 l4the St.) In 1890, under the postmastership of David Carnahan, the Post Office was again relocated to a cite on the east side of Main St. (near Carper's Cafe), now known as 372 14the St. February 15, 1959, Laying of the cornerstone ceremonies. L. to R.: Carolyn King, Pearl Schell, Estella Penny, Bessie Wilson, Esther Winfrey and Ethel Sloan. so hard to establish this Library that serves this community now and in the years to come. by Carolyn Sloan Hansen and Betty Nider BURLINGTON POST OFFICE T277 In the beginning of the establishrnent of a new township in the year of 1887, the first Burlington Post Office was established under Postmaster Charles a. Lamb was instrumental in relocating the office in 1894, to 340 14the St. in an old frame hotel, called the Girard-Ross building, (present day Coast to Coast). Then in 1897, Postmaster Fred A. King moved it to the Wilson Gift Shop, now 2430 Lowell Ave. Annie Newell was the first woman to be commissioned as Postmaster, to serve in August 21, 1897, she served until Aug. of 1901. The office was then housed in the Dunn's Creamery. the administration of President Grover A. During the term of Postmaster Charles Greglow, the office was again moved, to the old Odd Fellows Hall and remained here until Cleveland and Postmaster General William 1915. F. Vilas. Transportation in the early years Postmaster Rhoda Yersin, accepted and moved into the first building specifically built for Postal use in 1917. "Another first for was by stage coach and wagons, later on it was transported by the railroad, around 1887. �women!" The Post Office remained at this location until 1922, when growth again necessitated a larger office space. The contract was awarded to Louis Vogt, for the construction of a new building to house the Post Office and it's employees. The building was erected at 474 t4the St. (Burlington Bakery now), and the office remained here for 26 years, with Robert L. Wilkenson as the Postmaster. Rural Free delivery was established in the area in 1917, during the tenure of Mr. Wilkenson. The first Rural carriers were: Hugh B. Morgan, Ed O. Smith, and A.E. Calvin. Rural delivery has grown from humble beginnings to 601 families, as indicated by records still available. Today the rural delivery system has 446 families. In 1948. the office was moved across the street to 451 14the St. (Men's Shop) under the Postmistress Mary E. Vogt. It remained at this location for 10 years. The Post Office was elevated to Second Class, Jan. 1, 1948. The Post Office was relocated in 1958 to its present location at 1490 Martin Ave. The building was erected by C.D. Skoles, in 1958 and was then leased to the Post Office Dept. It was dedicated on April 11, 1959, during the Administration of President Dwight D. Eisenhower and Postmaster General Arthur E. Summerfield. Dedication address was given by W.D. Brewer, Regional Operations Director, USPO Dept. Denver, Co. Keys and Flag were presented to Postmaster Mary E. Vogt. The Burlington Post Office, under the administration of Dale E. Pralle, Jan 1, 1969, was elevated to First Class. Mr. Paralle served until 1976. Revenue for the year of 1968 was $79,179.26, and grew to $171,406.96 during his tenure. The revenue is a very good indicator when the growth is such that it should trigger a new review of space needed and this began in 1977. Revenues grew to fiscal year 85 to $306,858.00. Plans for a new building which started in 1977 still have not come to pass. In 1980, Postmaster Melcher, concluded the crotiminous boundary program which then changed the delivery system to include all of the State to the Kansas border, starting from Rd. 41 to Rd. 60. Rural routes are now traveling 129,048 miles annually. RRl, 142.7 miles, RR 3, 143.0 miles and RR 4, t40.6 miles, 303 delivery days a year. City delivery has grown to 1449 deliveries, served by 2 city carriers, present day: John E. Perry 701 and Clyde Schaal, 702. During the tenure of Postmaster Albert "Al" Melcher, from 1977 to 1986, 10 years of effort have not seen the goals set for this new facility. In April 1, 1984, the contract and lease for the old Safeway building, 270 l4the St., set the remodeling and completion by the glow, Rhoda Yersin, Robert L. Wilkenson, Michal Vogt, Mary A. Vogt, Dale Pralle, Albert Melcher, and Joe Rosengrants. Officers in charge who have served during PM. vacancies were: Lowell "Bud" Hartwig, Wayne F. Wilcoxen, Micheal Grossman, Keith Bowhan, Larry Schweers, and Maria Dollar. Employees of the Burlington Post Office from 1977 through 1988: Retirees: Eugene Williamson, (Dis) Earl Perry, Shirley Fundingsland, Laurel Alleman, Howard Pickerill and Cecil Felzien; Promoted: Geraldine L. Troyer, S.P.O. 1984 and served in that capacity until 5-01-84, when she wa promoted to Postmaster Stratton, Co.; Linda Boyd, promoted to S.P.O. 1984, presently serves in that position; Kathy Witzel to Postmaster Bethune, CO. 1985; Terri Billemwillms, to serve as Officer In Charge, Cheyenne Wells, Co. April 1986 through Sep. 1986; Transfers: Cathy Minter to Loveland, Co.; Michelle Gergen to Estes park, Co. 1983; Sandra Schmatjen to Colorado Springs, C. 1986; Pam Morrell, resigned. New Hires 1977 thru 1988: Cathy Minter, Debra Knapp, Michelle Gergen, Sandra Schmatjen, John Perry, Clyde Schaal, Terri Billemwillms, Charles Turner, Alan Billemwillms, Daniel R. Thompson, Bernie Collette, Linda Boyd, Aaron Nutter, Steve Chalfant, and Tom Cash. Present day employees and job titles: Linda Boyd, S.P.O.; William Stolz, Dist. Clk; Terri Billemwillms, window clerk; Charles Centennial celebration set for May 7, 1988. Cancellation for that day, plus running the Cancellation Burlington, Co. 'A Century of Pioneers'from Jan. 15, 1988 to June 15, 1988. Postmaster of Burlington Post Office from 1887-1986 were: The Honorables Eugene T. Lemieux, Joseph M. Leal, Robert L. Hubbard, David Carnahan, Charles A. Lamb, Fred W. King, Annie Newell, Charles Gre- appointed. December 6, 1908. The constitution and by laws were presented and adopted and two new members were added, B.B. Landers and Albert Real. A committee was appointed to appear before the city council and ask their approval of the new organization as the official fire department for the city. The city council unanimously approved the action and took steps toward buying equipment. The first dance by the department was held in May and netted the department the sum of $31.30 which was set aside for the purpose of aiding the town in buying the needed equipment. On July 4, 1909, the department took charge ofthe celebration and pulled offa very creditable days sports. The election for the issuance of water bonds to build the water supply system was held on april 20, 1908 with the result that the bonds were voted by 47 to 18 against. In July, the city council authorized the sale of 97,000 in bonds and the erection of a steel tower and tank. The top of the tank was to be 100 feet in the air and the tank was to hold 60.000 gallons of water. The 7,000 bonds were sold to the Central Savings Bank of Denver for 97 cents on the dollar and the contract for the tower tank and distributing system was given to the Des Moines Bridge and Iron Company on their bonds. Carriers: Larry winslow, RR 1; Cecil Felzein, Retired, Peter Thompson, RR3; Leonard Koop, RR 4, Rural Subs. Alan Bellemwillms, RR 4; Gordon Hamit, retired, Tom Cash, RR 3: and Steve Chalfant, RR 1. As the town had no fire fighting equipment, the council bought 800 feet of hose at 36 cents per foot and a two wheeled cart for $80. A hose house was erected in the rear of the Montezuma hotel and on July 19, 1909, the hose cart was installed in its new house. Burlington now had a fire department, hose Debra Knapp, PTF carrier 701; Bernie Collette, PTF carrier 702 retired; Rural bid of $8.800. The town then sold 94,000 more house, hose cart and everything a city had except a fire. We should add that the hose house cost $41.75. BURLINGTON'S VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT. T278 A rather interesting incident happened in August 1909 when the city council ordered the city water commissioner, who had charge of the pumps, tanks and mains, that he flush both tank and mains as soon as he had received a new barrel of gasoline. Evidently the city was out of gas. As the consumption of water for domestic purposes was very light in Burlington. There was very little circulation on the riser pipe, and in December 1909, the riser pipe froze up and the city was out of water for several days while the repairs were being made. In the spring of 1910, the fire department was given some new material by the city and a fire bell was purchased by the city. The old bell was located on a tower just east of the present Sim Hudson garage. Two taps on the Oct. 1987 on the remodeling of the Safeway The Burlington Post Office will have a special the next meeting and a committee was Turner, PTF window clerk; Gwen Chalfant, PTF window Dis. clerk; John Perry, city carrier 701; Clyde Schaal, city carrier 702; fall of 1985. After many delays, construction began in store at 249 14the St. The work is being done by Rhoades Construction of Castle Rock, Co. Completion date is set for early in the spring of 1988. It is to be completed in time for the H.G. Hoskin are still active after 50 years of volunteer service. Frank Boldt elected sec. at bell called the city council together, three Burlington Fire Department building, 1956. taps called the fire department to a meeting and a continuous ringing meant a fire. Later the calls for meetings were dropped and a system of taps that designated the The organization meeting of the Bur- location of hydrant nearest the fire was adopted and was very successful. This old lington's fire Department was held November 18, 1908. Those present were: J.G. Upton, Phil Reichard, Frank Boldt, Albert Guthrie, Walter Clark, H.G. Hoskin, O. Rogers, W.H. Yersin, Art Abbott, R. Wilkinson and Ed Hoskin. Of these. Albert Guthrie. Ed Hoskin and bell served for many years and rang continuously on the first Armistice Day. As soon as one ringer retired, another took his place. Later the bell was sold to Kanorado and now serves them. There never was a more hair raising sound heard in Burlington than the boom of that old bell in the middle of a dark �night. At present the fire alarms are sent out by a siren on the city clerk's office. The present -1938- equipment consists of the red Reo truck which carried 800 feet of hose with ladders, hooks hand extinguishers, helmets and various types of equipment; the Ford truck which canies the pumper and small quantity of hose which can throw water over any structure in town, and the chemical speed wagon, which is intended more for county fires than for other purposes. For a small city this is a well balanced equipment, although many of the firemen feel that a new truck combining the features of the three now is use would be very fine. Among the early spectacular fires was the one at the old Coakley auditorium, which stood where the new armory now is. Lightning struck the buildingjust over one corner ofthe stage and ran down inside the building. At the time a traveling company was putting on one of their plays and they simply waited until the firemen put out the fire and then went on with the play. Another memorable fire was the old red brick school house. A janitor had left a bucket of hot ashes in the hallway and the floor caught fire from it. While the fire was not very bad and was easily extinguished, the firemen pulled the hose cart through an eight foot drift of snow to get to the school house. The storm was so bad that walking was difficult, but to bull the narrow tired hose cart with 400 feet of hose through the drifts was real labor. The three worst fires in Burlington's history were those at the court house, December 1907; the school house, January 8, L924; and the OK Barn on the corner north of the E.C. Baker residence. Several horses were killed in this fire and it was a heavy loss to the owners. The present organization consists of twenty six active members, with John Guthrie as chief and four honorary members. The honorary members are E.C. Baker, Arthur Wilson. W.A. Hudler and G.S. Flatt. These men pay $3.00 a year dues and are guests at all the dire department functions. The functions are the annual ball on St. Patrick's Day, the banquet in the winter and the picnic in the mid summer. More businessmen tainer out of Denver. The program included a vocal soloist, a ballroom and acrobatic dancing duo and a magician. Later the firemen and guests went to the firemen's hall, where coffee and doughnuts were served, equipment inspected, and the firemen, some of them tragic, some of the equipment. On December 16, 1945, The Montezuma hotel fire kept the firemen busy for several hours. The hotel was full that night, but all escaped. One person was unaccounted for, but later it was found that he had simply gone comical. home. old timers enjoyed fighting fires all over again. Many fond memories were recalled by Give List of Charter Members Of the original 13 charter members. only two, E.E. Hoskin and V.O. Coakley, were there for the 50the anniversary. According to the firemen's minutes books. the charter members were J.G. Upton, Paul Reichart, Albert Guthrie, Frank Boldt, Walter Clark, H.G. Hoskin, C.G. Wilcox, O. Rogers, W.H. Yersin, A. Abbott, R.L. Wilkinson (first chief, Mr. Hoskin and Mr. Coakley. The department was organized November 8, 1908. A history of the Burlington volunteer fire department is also a history of the town, for the growth of one demands the expansion of the other. Danger of fire in the early days of the town necessitated the formation of a department of combat the flames, usually a severe fire emphasizing the need for additional members or equipment. In 1906, before the department was organized, the livery barn located where the the town has ever had. The first water supply with which to fight fires was furnished from two cisterns, one located on the Standish Drug corner, the other in front of Carper's cafe. Water was pumped by hand with two men on either side of the hand car arrangement. Water was also carried by bucket brigade. County Court House Burns in 1906 the county court house burned, with very few of the records being saved. Water was carried from a well. located on the Fred Kiefer corner. In 1908, the fire department was organized, with the motto "we never lose both the house and the lot." The fire bell was located east of the Sim Hudson Motor company garage. The first annual firemen's ball was held May 4, 1909, and showed a profit of $31.30. purchase of a new fire truck was being 1957 considered. department celebrated their 50the anniversary Saturday night, when they gathered at the high school gym for a banquet and program. Approximately 100 firemen, their ladies and guest attended the event, with special guest being the three top officers of the state fireman's association, Judge and Mrs. Neal Horan; Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Becker, and Ernie Anderson, all of Denver. Appearing briefly on the program, the state officers commended the local department for their fine organization, pointed out some of the problems of the state group, and outlined future plans now under coneideration. Chief Russell McArthur introduced several of the guest, while Don Chadwick acted as master of ceremonies and read a history of the department. Following the banquet and program, the firemen and their guests enjoyed several numbers presented by professional enter- July 13, 1946, the firemen made the last of several runs to Shank's Cafe, with a loss estimated at $7,500. The rural fire protection district was formed in 1952, and what is known as the red truck was purchased. The new firemen's hall came soon afterwards. Perhaps the most outstanding civic improvement made by the firemen, in addition to their regular responsibilities, was the installation of street signs for the town. Other projects which the firemen have sponsored for year to year are first aid, water fights and contest, and the annual life they give to Santa. by Myra L. Davis BURLINGTON FOLLIES 1926 Plains Equipment Company now stands, operated by Uncle Billy Boyles, burned, and was considered by many as the hottest fire should be honorary members as we feel the present members get more than their money's worth. Firemen Observe 50the Anniversary 1907Members of the Burlington Volunteer Fire In 1942 the department bought another truck, this time a Chewolet, and the following year a resuscitator was added to the Fire signals were adopted in L923, and the On January 7, L924, the school house burned to the tune of $150.000. Firemen thought later they might have saved the school, if they had had enough water pressure. The department stated to grow, with the (See photo next page.) T279 1. H.D. Klinker. with doll 2. E.C. Baker. with doll 3. Whitey Harry Yount 4. Frank Weber 5. Gordon Burr 6. Ralph Boggs 7. Mac McFadden, Charlie Chaplin 8. John Askey, Fauntleroy 9. Bruckner 10. Frank Spahr, Bridesmaid 11. Donald Smith, Bridesmaid 12. George Haywood, Chorus Girl 13. Roy Romberg, Chorus Girl 14. Dr. E.J. Remington 15. Alfred (Pete) Jennings, Baby 16. Richard Floyd, Mammy 17. Director 18. 19. Royden e. Hook, uniformed 20. Robert L. Wilkinson 21. Dr. O.M. Cassell 22. Lester Goins 23. Grant Stettler 24. Dr. Frank L. Bergen, Father of Bride 25. J.R. Walter 26. Ear. J. McCarty, Bride 27. Pawin Penny, Groom 28. Orin Milburn purchase of a Ford pumper, and then a White 29. J.M. Heffner chemical truck. Pumper Helps Rock Island The year 1929 was a busy one for the firemen. The Rock Island had a wreck near Flagler, and the pumper was sent over for two or three days. In August of that year the DeHollander Produce experienced a bad fire, "Dutch" later giving a banquet for the firemen in appreciation of their fine work. The White Eagle oil fire also occurred that year, with $10,000 damage and loss. The fire at the old hospital building was the next important event in the firemen's history, 30. Clyde Guthrie 31. A.W. Winegar 32. William Hendricks 33. Sidney P. godsman, uniformed 34. 35. Dr. Glenn S. Flatt 36. Rev. Benjamin Eitelgorge 37. Ted W. Backlund 38. Henry J. Wagner 39. Edward Hoskin, Jr. 40. Frank Williams. Tom Mix 41. Orville Swaim 42. George Cockrell 43. Mel Beidelman, in kilts 44. George Danforth, Jr. followed by a response to an alarm sent in from the town of Vona in 1936. �.l ! * ,:.S" Cf,r,1g.,'.r::,,.';' ll:.'l,1,::,''.,:l11,,,:.,,t'!tt:t,.:tl:i :,,r:ll:la . ,i::ll.ll f :,'r' }:rl:;,;'l -,1 * glil, ,,\ll:;l 22. Billy Marquis 25. Roy Upton 26. Sm. Boyles 23. 27. Nanny Hoskin 24. 28. Maxine Abbott 21. Hugh Marquis 45. 46. Fred Goldsby 4?. Lonnie Sturdivant 48. John Guthrie 49. Cecil D. Reed. BURLINGTON CORNET BAND CIRCA L9T2 1. Helen McCloud 2. Vince Ruddell 3. Verda Cook 4. Nelle Burr 5. Allice Mae Bogart 6. 7. Dorothy Bergen 8. Macil Roberts 9. Marjorie Abbott 10. 11. 12. Lorene Baker 13. Ila Castle 14. Amber Hudson 15. Dolly Barker 16. Ora Baker 17. Martha Abbott 18. 19. Russell Brand 20. "Bus" Rhule T280 �29. 30. Harriet Bassett 31. Puts (Clifford) Rathbun 32. Alin Stevenson November 14the Burlington Colorado. "BRING TIN CUPS Starting with a big FREE LUNCH at noon, then . . "FREE PICTURE SHOW-From Noon 33. Jimmy Barker until Midnight, Featuring, 'The Devil is a 34. Sissy' 35. "FOUR BANDS-Parade at 2:30 P.M. Four bands-St. Francis, Kansas 55-piece band, Goodland band, Stratton band and Burlington band "TWO FREE DANCES-One at the New Armory, with music by Jerry Petty's orchestra of Denver. One at the Old Armory, with music by Russ Stone's orchestra, featuring both old time and modern music. "Come One, Come All for a Good Time - 36. Bandleader (Abbe) 37. Park Guthrie 38. 39. Frank W. Winegar 40. Luben Guthrie 41. Carl Pearce 42. Jim Upton 43. Jack Rulison 44. Mrs. Reece 45. Ed Hoskin All Free!" 46. All day long, automobiles streamed in from farms and surrounding towns both east and west along Highway North 40, which ran 47. 48. Rev. Brand 49. 50. Frank L. Bergen 51. Shirley Castor 52. Rev. C.A. Yersin and Henry Y. Hoskin through Burlington. DJ. for the occasions, to hordes of hungry rev- 54. elers. 55. Bro. W.H. Tipton 56. Frank Mann At noon, Hudson's free lunch was served in his garage - turned into an impromptu cafeteria serving hot dogs, specially ordered The free lunch problem almost got beyond BURLINGTON DAY FETE, NOV. 14, 1936 control. While 500 pounds of hot dogs had been provided by the sponsors, early in the game it was seen that these were not going to go around, so every store in town was called upon to supply lunch meats and an additional 200 pounds was secured and served. An S.O.S. call was also made to a neighboring town for more. Election Bet Payoff Results in Kit Carson County's Biggest Party in lfistory buns and after those gave out, the diners had to be served with bread. Estimating the day's crowd at between 5,000 and 6,000, it was also The Burlington Record which came up with the above figures T28r Bizaare election bets. . . and their payoffs . . have enjoyed a special place in America's history since our young country's first straw vote was taken. And no history of Kit Carson County would be complete without a detailed description of what has been dubbed "The Biggest party in the History of Kit Carson County" . . . because Sim bet Ed that Roosevelt would take Kansas from its native son Alf Landon in the presidential election of'36 . . . and won. . . along with anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000 revelers who made Burlington Day, Nov. 14, 1936 . . . a date to remember. It all dated back to the national election of Nov. 3, 1936, when Burlington automobile dealer Sim Hudson bet Burlington druggist E.L. Weinandt that F.D. Roosevelt would carry Kansas in the national election, despite the fact that Republican Alf Landon was the neighboring state's native son. Reportedly, the bet was for 94,000; and after the bet was made, the two got their heads together and agreed the winner, whichever he was, would keep only 9500 for himself. The rest would be spent in giving a real party for the countryside. "All For Fun and Fun For All at Burlington Day on Saturday, November 14th" read headlines in the local newspaper, while a special robin's egg blue handout (flier flyer) was emblazoned: "Sim Hudson and Ed Weinandt will be hosts at a . . . BIG FREE DAY. Saturdav. The Burlington Bakery supplied 6,000 for the lunch. But 'guestimates' varied, depending on the reporting broadsheet. Pat Wilson's Burlington Call tended toward the superfluous: 12,000 buns, 3,000 at the free picture show, etc. But it was The Denuer Post that waxed eloquent: 10,000 to 12,000 people cheering from the sidelines at the parade, which lasted an hour and a half (30 minutes, said a local journal). No matter how long, it was certainly the parade that was the hit of the day, making national media . . . including photographs; and a Universal newsreel camera team was also in Burlington to record the event, showing it in movie theatres across the United States to an estimated 50 million people. "Parade Caused Many Laughs", The Record recounted, with the following: "The parade brought out a good laugh as had been expected. Entries in this included a car full of 'G-Men' with Sheriff Gates leading the procession. The color bearer, and the two sponsors (Hudson and Weinandt) of the day, each astride a donkey, then followed. "Represented in the parade were the Statue of Liberty, Co. I., the Volunteer Fire Department, Joan of Arc, a number of the boys about town wearing barels since they had lost their pants in the election, and a float on which was carried on of the 'glorified' privies of the new Deal, with the country project supervisor demonstrating its use. "W.P.A. workmen on a truck carrying a small pile of dirt exemplified the 'speed' of the W.P.A. Ex-President Hoover, with his lawn mower cutting the 'grass which had grown in main street' and carrying a kettle containing the chicken for every pot'were well done, and Al Smith, derby and all,'took a walk.' "The Burlington pep squad, high school football team and the B.H.S. state champion girls' basketball team all took part in the parade. One of the stunts which made a hit was the manure spreader which contained a load of straw and was labeled 'Straw Vote'. "A group of the younger generation riding Shetland ponies represented George Washington, cowboys and other characters. One pair of the tiny folk carried signs in the parade announcing that they had voted for the old age pension. "The four bands also marched in the parade and again made a decided hit with the public with their bright colored uniforms, splendid music and fast-stepping drills. "The fire department created no little excitement when the antiquated automobile they had entered in the parade caught fire (accidentally, of course) and was badly damaged by the time the bucket brigade had finished with it." Free movies were also part of the day. From the time the Midway Theatre opened at noon until late at night, people were in line waiting their turn to see the show. Manager Hughes of the Midway estimated the number attending the six shows at 3,000. In the evening, the dances at the new and old armories were jammed. There have many events that have taken place in Burlington and Kit Carson County. Without question, Sim Hudson's "Burlington Day'is either the biggest or right near the top. Party lines were not drawn and everyone extended a full measure of cooperation. Perhaps no other stunt could have been pulled that would have gone over with such a success and gained for Burlington such nationwide exposure. "We congratulate Sim and Ed, and appreciate, as do all the citizens of Burlington, their ideal and untiring endeavor in staging this successful climax to a one-sided national election," praised a Burlington broadsheet. "Republicans have only the satisfaction that they won out in Kit Carson County." While both Sim and Ed agreed that the $4,000 spent was well worth it, no doubt Sim enjoyed himself just a tad more; after all, he won the bet. But the real winners were the celebrating citizenry of Kit Carson County, where . . in the year of 1936 . . . nothing could top "Sim Hudson Day". by Hazel Hudson ASTRONAUT JOHN MICHAEL LOUNGE COMPLETES SPACE MISSION ABOARD ..DISCOVERY'' T2a2 The third time was certainly the charm for the launch of the "Discovery" space shuttle, following two disappointing delays because of weather conditions and computer problems. �somewhat quiet." Don Clamp, Mike's science instructor at Burlington High School, said, "It's been Mike's dream . , . to be an astronaut since he was in high school." When asked, "Did you think Mike would ever become an astronaut?", Clamp responded: "Back then it was an entirely new field. I think the primary objective of several people in the educational and business community was to assist Mike in getting into the academy." Mike enrolled at the University of Colorado in Boulder as a freshman. After completing his first year. he was appointed to the ii: aa' i United States Naval Academy. Upon graduation from the academy, he completed naval flight officer training at pensacola, Fla., and took advanced training as radar intercept officer in the F-4J Phantom; he completed a nine-month southeast Asia cruise aboard the USS Enterprise, participating in 99 combat missions; he transferred to Navy Space Project Office in Washington for a two-year tour ag staff project officer; then resigned his U.S. Navy commission in 1978. \, . '&, Astronaut Lounge has a bachelor ofscience '.' ': )::Y degree in physics and mathematics from the Naval Academy and a master of science degree in atrogeophysics from the University of Colorado. Mike has been employed at the Johnson Space Center since July of 1978. He was lead t*n odS,a; Astronaut John Michael Lounge Fisher accomplished several missions during their flight, and set "a new world's record" with the launching of two satellites, first double deployment from a space shuttle in one day. Lounge's duties were deployment of the Aussat-l satellite, already released the first day when a sunshield would not close properly and work had to be completed quickly; maneuvering the remote manipulator arm; Mike Lounge Day on reviewing stand, featuring his family. Tuesday, Aug. 27,1985 was the culmination of a hometown boy's dram to become an astronaut, a goal which John Michael (better known as Mike) set as a youth and pursued throughout his career to its accomplishment' Mike, along with flight commander Joe Engle, pilot Richard Covey, James Van Hoften and fellow mission specialist William and flight engineer during the ascent and reentry portion of the mission. Following a perfect "touchdown" on Tuesday, Sept. 3, at Edwards Air Force Base in California, the mission was heralded as one of the most ambitious shuttle flights and one of the most successful. Mike was born in Denver June 28, 1946, the first child of Percy and Reta Lounge. The family moved from Denver to the family farm north of Flagler in 1949, and moved to Burlington in 1951. Mike graduated from Burlington High School in 1964. He was described by one of his teachers as "being an excellent student, who was very serious and engineer for integration of spinstabilized upper stage payloads into future shuttle flights and served as member of the Skylab re-entry flight control team. he was selected as an astronaut in 1980 and since then has served as launch support team member at Kennedy Space Center for the first three shuttle missions. He has specialized in the shuttle's computer system. Mike and his wife, Kitty Haven, have three children: Shannon, Kenneth and Kathy. His parents, Reta and Percy, are well known throughout the entire area. In addition to Mike, they have three living children: Lana Sue Teman, who resides in Burlington; Joe Lounge, who has received his doctorate in education from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley; Cindy Lounge of Fort Collins. Kathy Lounge Erker, their oldest daughter, died in 1972. Mike was scheduled for his second space flight, which has tentatively been postponed until the summer of 1988, following the tragic flight of The Challenger cew. "Dreams Do Come True" was the theme for Astronaut Mike Lounge Day which was held in Mike's honor on Oct. 12, 1985. A parade with an excess of 100 entries was the largest and best parade in Burlington's history. Following a football g'me with Sheridan High School, a barbecue was served to a crowd of approximately 2,000 people. In the evening Mike presented a slide show in the gymnasium of his trip into space. The response was so great that a second showing had to be added at the last minute. Mike presented the City of Burlington with several items which are on display at the Old Town Museum in Burlington,including a flag which accompanied him on his space flight. by Reta Lounge �guards, along with representatives, Lt. Governor Nancy Dick, and Senator Jim Brandon, were all greeted by an enthusiastic crowd of an excess of 5,000 people from the entire area. A barbecue was served at noon with an air show following. The Burlington City Council began working on the new airport approximately 11 years before when a meeting with the Federal Aviation Administration was held in the city hall. At that time, the FAA informed the city officials they needed a new airport as the old one was extremely dangerous. The council then began the long process of screening firms to prepare a master plan for a new facility. On May L2, 1975, council passed a resolution authorizing the acceptance ofa planning grant from the FAA for the airport master plan. An agreement with Nelson, Haley, Patterson and Qurik, Inc., was signed for the master plan in June of 1975. The FAA approved land acquisition funds in 1980 and the ground was purchased in August of 1981. The city had two separate grants from the FAA for the land, one for 80 percent participation from the federal government and 20 percent from the city; the other for 90 percent and 10 percent. Land acquisition was $178,920 from A.F. Antholz and $190,613.40 from William Peters. Total land cost was $369,533.40. The city then signed an agreement with Isbill Associates, Inc., ofDenver for engineering for a new airport. Float featuring Mrs. King, Mikes teacher, and his classmates. BURLINGTON-KIT CARSON COUNTY AIRPORT Sight preparation was completed by Boyer Construction for $166,169 in March of 1983, with the FAA paying for 90 percent of it. On July 18, 1983, Mountain States Paving was awarded the contract for the runway at a cost of $770,504.50. At the same time, T283 Saturday, October 13, 1984, proved to be another historical happening and very special event in the life of Kit Carson County. It was the day of the grand opening and dedication of the Burlington-Kit Carson County Airport. The day dawned gray and cloudy, but by noon the sun appeared and helped to make this celebration a huge success. Hot air balloonists, bands, aircraft displays, color Taylor Fencing received the contract for $13,804.20 for fencing around the property and $68,038 went to Acme Electric for runway lighting. All of these were on a 90 percent federal grant with the city paying The old Airport north and west of town in 1950. tr ,llr,';,,,'rli .i:ii:r .:ir.: iail:r: ..:ri, '.H' i I ,'1,*?*,ilt by Bonnie Witzel '/ ., .- :..r:l o..*' An airport advisory board was named by the city to assist with the overall planning of the structures. John Swick was the chairman and was assisted by Harold Caroll, Harley Hahn and Don Downen. Total expenditures for the city for the airport are approximatley $400,000. The county contributed approximately $80,000. Most of the city's money for the airport was derived from the sale of the building sites near the Burlington Middle School. The airport was opened in July of 1984. S |'., " only 10 percent. Herman Construction Co.. Inc. of Burlington was the general contractor for the fixed base building at the airport and the two hangars, which house 16 airplanes. Total cost for the three structures was $314,600, all of which was paid for by the city as the FAA does not participate in buildings on airports. '.2:, -: -"'r Burlington-Kit Carson County Airport at Grand Opening and Dedication, 1985. �BURLINGTON METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH T284 either side of the receding culprits. It is doubtful if the Rock Island Limited ever made faster time from Burlington, to the Kansas line at Carlyle. Every time the officers would shoot. the men would hit their horses and lean forward for more speed. When I heard this I told the people I would take Burlington, if old Goliath himself should To the members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Burlington, Colorado. Having been informed by your pastor, Rev. Gray, that you are building a church house, I feel somewhat reminiscent and would join you in your laudable enterprise. It takes me back to the years that flitted by like the happy birds that came to those plains at spring time and then sought the southern climate at the first blast of winter. It was in the fall of 1887 that myself and brother-in-law, Edgar Gilmore, left Furnas County, Nebraska for Elbert County, Colorado. We drove via Haigler, Nebraska and thence to old Guy, or Jaqua, on the Republican River. From there we started for a Mr. John Lewis, whom Mr. Gilmore had known back east, and who lived near old Carlyle, Colorado. Stopping once in a while to inquire the distance to Mr. Lewis' home, we were invar- iably asked the number of his claim. After having traveled about 20 miles up on the Jaqua-Burlington road, we came to where three men were digging a well near the roadside. We asked them where John Lewis lived, and the two men above ground, repeated his name over, two or three times apiece to each other, and then asked the man in the well if he knew. We heard him say that he did not know any such person, but he asked the number of his claim. We told him the NE of l9-7-42. Then both men above, said, "Oh! He Iives in that little shack you see about a half mile yonder. We didn't know who in the dickens did live there." And he had been there about one year. When we reached the little shack, we found that Mr. Lewis had gone back to lowa, to get him a cook, but had left Elmer Hicks and Jacob I. Love to settle down for what proved to be a hard winter. Here we met the Rev. D.W. Burt, whom we had met on occasion of a ministerial meeting a few years before, in the Northwest Kansas Conference. He wanted us to help him in special meetings, for he had learned that we had evangelistic gifts. We conducted a meeting at Carlyle, and from there we went to old Logan, near where Idalia now stands, and conducted a meeting. After closing this meeting, we stopped at Bro. Burt's home for a day or two and he said, "Brother Thomas, I wish you would try Burlington. You are more than welcome to it. I confess I can not make an impression on them, but I think with your musical talent, you may be able to handle these people." I made inquiry as to the morale of the place, and was told that conditions had grown so bad, that the legal officials were not able to cope with the situation as the county seat was at old Kiowa, 150 miles to the west. But I was also told that members of the Masonic order had determined to not let the foot pads and scarlet women run their fair little city, and he proceeded to test like members and they gave notice for all undesirables to leave within 24 hours. The result was that Frank Walters' fastest team was not fast enough for them. Especially when Frank Bevelheimer, deputy sheriff and an assistant began shooting on meet me on the outskirts of the city. I therefore gave an appointment and on a cold, late winter Sunday morning, I drove from Carlyle in time to open the house, cut some wood and start a fire. This was the old Burlington that stood about one half mile east and a little south of the present site. There were six persons at the service. Four women, one man and a boy, Master Frank Swayzee, constituted the congregation. The man was noble Joe Leal, assistant postmast- er, but unfortunately a tubercular. He became a charter member of your church, then went to Colorado Springs in quest of better health, and failing in this move, he concluded to try the old home where friends and loved ones could give him cheer, but like Rev. Sam Jones, his spirit traveled faster than the brain of time, and he went hence. After meeting the people a few times in a two weeks' appointment, we announced a special meeting, which many termed a revival. We used the old Gospel Hymn number 1,2,3, and 4. And I think we had the use of Abe Hendricks'organ, which the Evangelist promised to clean, and repair all defects, as that was a part of his musical life, for the use of it. The revival was held in an empty store building that belonged to the Townsite Company, standing on the west side of Main Street (This was old Burlington) and only one building north of it and that was a one room shack, which was occupied by an atheist carpenter, for rooming purposes. We had obtained absolute control of the building, in which we held our meetings from Mr. A.J. Senter, the secretary and Judge Newell, president of the Townsite Company, who resided back in Kansas. For the first few nights of our special meetings the young folks, mostly the young men, would say, "Let's go down to the Methodist circus." And they would come filing into the room with confusion enough to distract one, unless he were a thorough Westerner. Being seated in a back corner, they would assume the air, now turn on your circus, we are here. But the only monkey they saw was the little bald headed preacher, who was used to that kind of monkeying, and he started in with a thirty minute song service. We would use some display songs, Iike, "No, Not One." etc., and some times would divide the house into three divisions. When it came to the division these young men were in, they would sure sing, or holler, "No, Not one." We had singing that would give credit to any community on God's footstool. It was not long until that band was broken, and the young men would sit where they could avail themselves with a book, and sing with an earnestness that showed they were not bad fellows after all. One incident is worth mentioning. There were a few people in town and they feared we were going to break up their dances, etc. The leaders determined to pull off a big dance in the same building in which we were holding our meetings. They concluded it was a public hall, and could be used for all public occa- sions. The hall which had been used for public gatherings before that, had just been changed into the old Montezuma hotel. Our meeting was the first occasion after that change. The merry dancers sent word to Goodland and Eustis, Kansas, and quite a number of joy seekers came over from this occasion. They could not wait for us to fully conclude our services that night. But bounded into the room in one body and began to throw our improvised seats (lumber from the Neil Brothers lumber yard, with nail kegs and boxes for supports) in every direction. It made so much noise in that large empty store room, that we could not hear ourselves sing. But we had written on the walls, with colored crayon, these mottoes. On the south wall was: "What Shall I Do to Be Saved?" and on the opposite side was the answer, "Believe On the Lord Jesus Christ." And at the front. where all the people could see was "Thou, God Seest Me," and "Give Me Thine Heart." For some cause the terpsichoreans could not get up steam. The evangelist requested his workers not to say one word in criticism, but to go to their homes and pray God to work the matter out. The dancers did not hold one hour. One lady from Eustis, said she would have given a quarter section of land if she had stayed at home. The next night Bro. Ed Neil and I went to replace the seats. This atheist carpenter came in, although he had an antipathy for preachers. If he saw me in time, when about to meet, he would step to the outside of the sidewalk and look across the street. And if he did not see me in time to do that, he would simply grunt in response to my "Good morning." But on this occasion, he was quite friendly and helped to replace the seats, and gave the use of his tool chest for the support of the end of two seats. And when all was done, he stood in the doorway and addressed us. He said, "Well, gentlemen, I have been roving about this world since I was sixteen years old and have been in all kinds ofsociety. I have been in the camps where they have a green light burning in the gambling halls, but I have never seen anything that would come up to that affair last night." And he vanished into his shack. He told a comrade in the carpenter work, that he had not heard such good singing since he was a boy at his mother's knee. Every night he would sit in the door ofhis shack and listen to the singing, and then would "turn in" when the minister would start the sermon, Another incident of that meeting is with me yet. We held for about one week and the interest seemed to be growing all the time, but some of the attendants would drop off a night, if it got too serious for them. One of these was David E. Swayzee, who was connected with the Burlington Blade, which was edited by Gene Wooster. He was deaf to his wife's entreaties, and would come only about every other night. But being a good bass singer, he could not stay away all together. And just as all the people began to consider the matter deeply, this Swayzee received a letter from his sister in Ohio telling how much she had been concerned about in the last few days. There had been no correspondence between them for years. But she stated that he had come so vividly before her, and she wondered if he was not going to live a Christian life, so that they might meet up yonder, since the were not likely to meet again here on earth. This was too much for David, and he came to the front ranks that very night. �At one of our testimony meetings in the afternoons, Brother H.L. Page, a seeming very unemotional man, was seen weeping, and in his testimony he remarked that no one had ever seen him weep in a church service before. but he reflected that he had not been concerned in the condition ofthe lost. before hearing Bro. Abe Hendricks tell his touching experience. Brother Hendricks was a member of the Baptist church. At the conclusion of this meeting, we organized with 36 members, counting probationers and all. We held our first church social and praise meeting at Sister French's home. Then came the scramble of moving the town to its present site. And also Mr. J.F. Doty, of Beloit, Kansas came to represent the Rock Island as right of way man. The Townsite Company and the railroad company concluded to get out a thousand extra copies of the Blade and the Boomerang, each week. We were employed to help the eccen- Thomas, is now at Rennes, France, in the transportation service. Our sympathy was deep and sincere for these brave pioneers, who went to that evening land with the tinsel fringed hopes of a conqueror but the different minion of the isothermal, blighted and wrecked the fond the Rev. Franklin Fonester Thomas, a brother-in-law of Mrs. Martha Gilmore hopes of most of them. We were on the plains to become a preacher, and then began his at old Floyd when the great blizzard, of January 12th, 1888, whacked so many lives. The Misses Etta Shattuck and Minnie Freeman, school teachers in Nebraska, save their school children, but both of them lost their feet. The next night after the blizzard, Prof. C.V. Dilts of Canada, and myself, stayed with Brother Mayfield, and glad we were to get into his sod house. Personally, we had many joyous visits with the Mayfields. And we could add many incidents and smiles to this article, but it is already too long. Wishing your enterprise great success, and hoping we may be able to visit your country, we bid you God speed and good-bye. tric J.F. Murray of the Boomerang, as local Fraternally, editor. Mr. Doty also requested us to help him F.F. Thomas hunt the claim owners, where his company was interested in the right of way. There was Mr. Brady who had a preemption about four miles west of town where the railroad makes a curve to the south and then back to the original line. This was to avoid the deep fill. The company wanted a two hundred feet right ofway, the standard being one hundred feet. Brady had been absent from the dining room at the Montezuma hotel, we saw Mr. Brady washing in preparation for breakfast, and as he came toward us I introduced him to Mr. Doty. Mr. Doty said, "I believe you have land that our railroad wants to run through?" Taken from the Kit Carson County Record, July 31, 1919, Burlington, Colorado. by Rev. F.F. Thomas BURLINGTON UNITED METHODIST CHURCH T285 "Yis sor," said Brady, "Oi have a thune, Claremont, Vona and Avondale. And the next year, Kingston, Idalia and Friend were added to the circuit. For the last year we received $7.50 from the people. And this was a dressed hog quoted at $3.50, a pair of shoes $2.00 and $2.00 in cash. It was our good fortune to help organize Kit Carson County then; and it is our good fortune to show the tourists the grave of that same Kit Carson now. We were also prime movers in organizing the first county fair, and Kit Carson County sunday school Association: The first convention of said association was held in Burlington on the 22nd and 23rd of June, 1889. Mr. Peter Winner, superintendent of the Trinity M.E. Sunday School, was with us. On the evening of the last day, Sunday the 23rd, Dr. C.A. Gillette came into Burlington from Bethune, and told us we were once more the proud father of a bouncing boy. And this same boy, Fred G. but he felt the call to preach, so he studied career as a circuit rider. Like others, he came to this country from Nebraska. The first newspaper in town, the Bur- lington Blade, notes that Rev. Thomas preached his first sermon here January 15, 1888. There were six persons a the service Joe Leal, a tubercular who was assistant postmaster, 4 women, and a boy; Frank Swayzee. It is believed that this and other meetings held during the next two weeks were held at what was later to become the Montezuma Hotel then located in Old Burlington which was somewhat east and south ofthe present day city. A.J. Senter and Judge Newell gave Thomas permission for the use of an empty building belonging to the Townsite Co. on the west side of the main street, and a series of revival meetings were begun on February 16th. For the first few nights, some of the young men joked about going to the "Methodist circus", but they came. Rev. Thomas agreed to clean and repair all the defects for the use of Abe Hendricks' organ, and with his fine tenor voice, he led the hymn singing for 30 minutes before the preaching and said, "We had singing that would be a credit to any commu- nity on God's footstool". On February 25, 1888, the Burlington Methodist Episcopal Church was organized by the 33 year old remaining 14 were probationers, possible youngsters not quite old enough for full membership. Others believe to have affiliated Brady. "Yes, we can give you $40", said Doty. "All right," said Brady, so quick that Doty dropped the rubber band from his mouth, which he had taken from his check book, because of his surprise at Brady's willingness took up a circuit consisting of Beloit, Be- Rev. Thomas had college music education, and had intended to make music his life work, preacher with 36 members. Mary Cain Pearce wrote in her diary that she and her husband Carman Pearce signed the charter. Joe Leal, Mary Wilcox and David Swayzee are known to be among the 22 charter members, and the 'presumption' out west of town." "Well, we are paying on an average of $35 to the claim," said Doty. Ond caunt yez give more an thot?" said to sell. Doty had determined to give him $100, if he required it on account ofthe double width and rainbow shape of the right of way. After the town was moved, we turned the work over to Rev. Willis of Wallet and we Lundy, he was fired with determination and set forth to bring religion to Burlington. with the group at that time were Mrs. Swayzee, Mr. and Mrs. L. French, Mr. and Mrs. H. Ed Neal, A.J. Carpenter, and H.L. Page. The first church social and praise Burlington United Methodist Church, 1956. A history of the Burlington Methodist Church from 1888 to 1987. With the passage of the Homestead Act in 1862, settlers were allowed to claim unoccupied lands by a short residence and payment of $1.25 an acre. Any citizen over 21 or head of a family could acquire 160 acres of public land by filing a claim and "proving up" on it. The first of these homesteads, which were to open up the vast western territory for development, was taken up, a few hardy individuals pushed on west into Colorado by 1877,but it was not until the building of the railroad in 1887 from Omaha to Denver that the attention of the landseekers was called to the homesteads available here. At that time, there were in the town; 6 saloons, 4 livery barns, 2 stores, a print shop, a bank, and 2 or 3 cigar making places and a few houses. This was a missionary field for the Method- ist Church, but attempts to convince the people of Burlington to mend their ways had been anything but successful. When word of the unsavory reputation of the town reached meeting was held at the home of sister Ettie French, and Sunday church services were later conducted at the D.E. Swayzee home. In April, an advertisement for sealed bids for the erection of a church appeared in the Blade. On June 4th, Mary Pearce noted that the lst Quarterly Conference of the church was conducted by Elder Merritt of Denver. After the town was moved to its present location, the work was turned over to Rev. Willis, and Rev. Thomas who had a tree claim at Bethune, took up a circuit of Beloit, Bethune, Claremont (Stratton), Vona, and Avondale to which Kingston, Idalia and Friend were added the next year. That year he received as his pay, a dressed hog amounting to $3.50, a pair of two dollar shoes and two dollars in cash. Rev. Thomas also organized the Kit Carson County Sabbath School Association which held its first convention in Burlington the 22nd and 23rd ofJune in 1889 with Mr. Peter Winnie, superintendent of Trinity Methodist Episcopal Sunday School in Denver as the speaker. An election held in 1889 to determine the county seat resulted in Burlington being selected by a vote of 451 to 170 over Claremont. The third marriage to take place in the county, that of Elmer Castor and Mary �Mrs. Annie Newell donated some land for a parsonage, and September of 1899 found Burlington United Methodist Church 1988 celebrating their centennial this year. E. Rice, was performed by Rev. J.N. Willis. Grant Stetler brought his bride to his homestead. and Mr. and Mrs. Peter Guthrie and family came to make their home. Four lots were on the corner of l1th and Lowell, were donated by R.S. Newell and C.F. Jilson as a building site for a church. A trust bond for $250 to the Church Extension Society was signed by Trustees S.K. King, J.E. Leal, Thomas Seaman, and C.C. Gilmore. Enough money was then raised to put up a 24x40 foot frame building in May and June, 1889. This was Burlington's first church and the original Methodist church. The ladies of the church held a strawberry and ice cream supper and had a "fish pond" and "post office" to help pay off the debt. The first twins in the county, Clyde and Sarah M. Guthrie were born. Rev. Willis organized a church Sunday School. The extreme drought forced many to give up their homesteads and go back east to make a living. People would go miles to hear a sermon and enjoy Sunday School and services were held at school houses and little churches all over the country. When there were to be baptisms at the Landsman Creek or the River, the whole family would pile in the wagon and taking a basket dinner they would be off on a holiday. In 1894, the Burlington-Lansing Circuit was created. It was a 5-point circuit, and included Lansing, Browning and Liberty, all north of the Republican River, and Plainview, east of Burlington. It took a week for the minister to complete the circuit. He usually rode horseback or in a two-wheeled cart, but the Rev. Mitchell, who bought and repaired bicycles to sell to the boys, rode the circuit on a bicycle. During the winter and spring everyone worried about the preacher when he was riding the circuit, because ofthe treacherous blizzards and swollen streams that became rushing torrents after the spring thaws. One Easter, some of the ladies spent days and nights making lilies, and then hours decorating the church. On Sunday morning no one could get to church because of the tremendous snowdrifts, but the minister's family looked in the window to see the Easter decorations. Our Sunday School records for January 1895 show that there were three officers, two teachers and a total of thirteen present with a collection of six cents. Fred Buchele was reelected superintendent; C.A. Yersin, assistant superintendent; Mertie Case, secretary; Mrs. C.A. Pearce, treasurer; Mrs. Stella Wilson, chorister. About 1930, with Mrs. Fannie Ross in charge, the Cradle Roll was established and babies whose names were on the roll were "rocked" in a little service on Children's Day. Vic Whitmore has been responsible for the Cradle Roll since 1936. The Rev. B.H. McCoy stayed with the Carman Pearce's family and tells of writing a letter and laying it aside until they had enough money among them for a stamp. Mr. Pearce always did the best he could to collect money for the church and the preacher's salary, but it was a hard job. Cripple Creek's boom brought sometimes as many as twenty "Prairie Schooners" a day to Burlington on their way to the hills to make their fortune, and before long, many came through on their way back in disappointment. Answering roll at the 1897 November Quarterly Conference were Wm. Aten, C.A. Pearce, Grant Stetler, Pastor L.M. Potashinsky, Presiding Elder B.T. Vincent, C.A. Peterson and Mary Fleming from Plainview; Mrs. Greatslinger, Fred Jenkins, carpenter Buchele at work on it. The Ladies Aid was organized about the 20th ofFebruary 1900, and shortly thereafter, they had a supper which brought $36 for the parsonage. Mrs. Mary Pearce was chosen to be the first president. The Ladies Aid met in the homes and sewed or mended whenever they need help. The highlight of the meetings was trips to the farm homes of members. Mr. and Mrs. Carman Pearce, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Guthrie, Mr. and Mrs. Grant Stetler and others were farm hosts. On one very happy occasion, Mr. Peter Guthrie cnme for the ladies. There had been a deep snow, and he had a big team of horses hitched to a sled that took them all to his home for a big turkey dinner. The Aid gave a cake and ice cream social in the basement of the Winegar Building to get the first dishes for the present church. Everyone was invited and asked to bring what ever dishes they could donate. Following the reunion of Methodism in 1939, when Episcopal was dropped from our church name, the unification program combined the Ladies Aid, home and foreign missionary societies into the Woman's Society for Christian Service, and Rev. A.W. Lenz chartered the local W.S.C.S. on September 21, 1949 with Anna Buol as president and 80 charter members. Ruth Holland helped to establish a circle which met in the evening, and Alene Morgan assisted in the forming of Jeanne Nave, Brinton, and W.F.C. (Women for Christ) circles in 1960 and Hoepner in 1961. Among the many accomplishments of the W.S.C.S. and its circles are parsonage im- provements and the furnishing of a complete set of dishes to be used in serving banquets to groups of a hundred. W.S.C.S. has become United Methodist Women. Through the efforts of Rev. Shea and Rev. Potashinsky, Dr. Ammi Bradford Hyde was secured to deliver the oration for the big Fourth of July celebration in 1902. For a quarter of a century, Dr. Hyde had written notes on Sunday School lessons for the Pittsburgh Christian Advocate, and his book the "Story of Methodism" had a circulation of something over 300,000 copies. A severe epidemic of scarlet fever struck in December of 1903 followed by an epidemic of smallpox in the spring. Many died. Rev. Mcleod's daughter, Mary Strawson, tells how her father would visit whenever a child was sick, then came home to bathe and change clothes before joining the family, and and R. Cassin of Lansing. The Pastor repor- they were spared, but Nellie Thompson, a little girl from the country who was staying preached 20 times, held 2 funerals, made 130 pastoral visits and organized a Sunday School at Browning. At one of the homes where he in their home, took the fever and died. Mrs. E.C. Baker sat up all night to make a little white dress for her to be buried in, and came ted that he had traveled 1,086 miles, spent the night, he remarked at dinner that the coyotes were a bad lot, destroying many chickens. "Yes", said the little six year old boy, "but they ain't half as bad on 'em as preachers." The District Convention of the W.C.T.U. was held at the church on November 20th, and Mrs. Telford, the state president, filled the pulpit on Sunday morning the 21st. L.D. Browning was elected president of the Epworth League. The church made preparations for a grand Christmas entertainment Christmas Eve with good music, good speaking, and a surprise for the children from Santa Claus to remind them that "One came to bring'Peace on earth, goodwill to ment.tt bringing it the next morning along with a bouquet of geraniums. In those days, people who butchered brought the minister fresh meat, potatoes, and other vegetables, and they would give Pound Parties with each person bringing some kind of food and sometimes a pound of money dollars. 16 silver It was about this time that the church acquired its first organ. The town's fraternal organizations all met at the old Odd Fellow hall, where the Record Office is now. The lodges had all gone together and purchased a reed organ, and when it was replaced with a player piano, the organ was taken to the church. Among the possessions of the late Dr. �F.L. Bergen, it is now the property of the Henry Hoskin family. Ruby Aten, Mabel Boger and others played it for many years at the little church and later when it was moved to the new building. A good piano was eventually purchased and then a magnificent pipe organ, followed by the Hammond organ and the fine piano obtained when Dr. Henry Beatty was pastor, which we still use for our worship services. A movement to erect a new church building was begun during the pastorate of Rev. Boner. A real estate boom was being enjoyed and several large contributions were made by promoters. Substantial nmounts were sub- scribed on a three year plan, and a lot of material and labor was donated. The 1916 "Booster Edition" of the Kit Carson County Record published by R.L. Wilkinson stated that, "[t is pleasing to note there is not a single saloon, dive or gambling den in operation in our town. The Christian influence is felt strongly in all circles. What we are particularly proud of, and for which we are becoming quite noted, are the moral and Christian influences of our city. A more clean minded, a more moral God loving and God fearing people cannot be found in all America." Rev. J.A. Moorman furnished the cornerstone for the building we now occupy, and it was laid by Bishop Mead in 1917. Everyone was anxious to see the building completed. Arthur Wilson writing in the Burlington Call said, "Of light, pressed brick, the edition will be a magnificent and stately addition to the city. Being built at an estimated cost of from $18,000 to $20,000, its magnitude and gran- Nelson McCormick of Cedaredge, Colorado, the Burlington Methodist church reaches yerus, many appropriate and useful gifts have around the world and ministers from all over the world have stepped into our pulpit. At a special session of the Quarterly Conference in 1957, the church gave approval to plans for a new Church School Educational Unit which was built at a cost of $32,000. A building committee was appointed with J.V. Brown, Chairman of the Board of Trustees as chairman; Kermit Buol, Sunday School superintendent as Financial chairman; Mrs. Tom Ambler, Treasurer; Lay Leader, Howard Stewart, John Bryner, Sam Hendricks, Willard Gross, Walt Bauder, Clark Hammond and the Pastor Paul Holland. Ground breaking ceremonies the following year with committee members taking part along with E.C. Baker, the oldest member of the church; Nancy McCartney, M.Y.F. president; and Iva Olson, W.S.C.S. president, were a milestone in the history of the church, this being the first addition made in 40 years. On Palm Sunday, 1959, special services during the Sunday School hour, when the children each carried a chair from the old building to the new, signalled the educational unit's completion. Formal consecration was conducted by Bishop Glenn R. Phillips and District Super- been added to the attractiveness of the church sanctuary and contribute to our worship experience. We use the Hoskin family Bible on the altar and lecterns. The three piece set of oak pulpit furniture was given by his family in Memory of Peter Guthrie. To this was added the oak altar set, consisting of the cross, two candle holders, and the oak panel reredos given in memory of Clementina Guthrie by her sons and daughters, and wrought iron candelabra dedicated to the memory of Peter N. Guthrie by the Guthrie family and in memory of Ed E. Hoskin by his family; and the oak table, a memorial to little Sandra Rae Tallent by her friends and relatives, presented by her parents Mr. and Mrs. Dale Tallent. The "Last Supper" tapestry was a gift of Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Hammond. Like Pearl Morgan, who was married to Clyde Guthrie by Rev. Moorman at the A.S. King home on August 3, 1918 and bid her new husband farewell the following day when he answered the call to the colors, the women of the church have kept the vigil at home with busy hands and prayerful hearts as their men have fought in two wars for the cause of freedom. Rev. Harold I. Wollard held the first Honor Roll Service on February 7, 1943 as a tribute to World War II servicemen. with the families of 33 members and constituents as special guests. For a number of years this Memorial Service took place on the first Sunday of February, and an impressive Service Honor Roll plaque listed the names deur surprises even those through whose efforts its construction has been made possible. The people of Burlington honor and appreciate the efforts of such progressive of 100 from our church, among them 5 citizens." The money raising efforts of Rev. "In answer to President Wilson's request for the co-operation of all the civil and W.L. Botkin proved to be quite successful, making slmost debt free occupancy possible by 1919. The little churchwas sold, with some of the material used in the construction of the Hudson residence. The parsonage was moved to the corner and with borrowed money paid off by the Ladies Aid Society, it was enlarged. In recent years, other improvements have been made to make it a more comfortable home for our ministerial families, and an asset to the community. The treasurer's books for January 1929 show that $2,239.22 was paid for pews and other fixtures, and from time to time, various improvements have been made on the church itself. After extensive repairs and redecoration in 1941, October 12th was celebrated as a day of re-dedication for the church, with hundreds in attcndance. Participating in the different events of the day and evening were Dr. A.P. Gaines, superintendent of the Greeley District; E.C. Baker for the Board of Trustees; Sunday School Superintendents A.V. Halsted and Iva Olson; Anna Buol for the Youth Fellowship. Lois Halsted's church school choir sang and graduation exerciseg were held along with a pageant, "The Golden Chord" costumed by Lorene Baker. Special music was presented by the vested choirs, Betty Harrison, Ora Baker, Bonnie Gould, Avalon Guthrie, Nell Hayes, Dr. F.L. Bergen, Walter Hem6qn6 and Minta Coleman, Elva Mae Lundy and Jackie Hendricks at the organ. Following the acceptance of an alabaster altar set to the youth group and the communion table, gifts from Mr. and Mrs. ka and our home missions, the influence of communion was observed. Through the women, who served. Durward Ray Dunn made the supreme sacrifice for his country in World War II. commercial enterprises in the furtherance of the war". The Epworth League president asked "co-operation in the study of the most vital subject,'Co-operation with the Sunday School' " on a Sunday evening in June 1918 at a big open air meeting on Grant Stetler's lawn with special music rendered. The Epworth League's modern counterpart, the M.W.F. (Methodist Youth Fellowship) conducts business, holds diseussions and gets together for breakfast meetings. Our own Joan Harker is sub district president. Kenneth Ancell attended the Youth Convocation at Purdue University as our delegate in 1959. Cathy Penny, Norman Reinecker, John Chapin and John Buol were our representative to the first Washington D.C. - United Nations Peace Seminar in 1962. For the Seminar in 1963, the church helped sponsor Barbara Brown, Joan and Jean Harker. Miss Anna Adkisson's Sunday School girls organized a group they called the Sunbeams in the spring of 1918. They had a Missionary box, and saved money to buy Bibles printed in Chinese to be sent to a Methodist Missionary in China. Members of that class were Gladys Parsons, Oletha Eicher, Henrietta Lidke, Mary Katherine Duvall, Mary Burks, Lyla Ragan, Minnie Zick, and. Della Boger. In 1964, our Missionary interest reached an all time high, with a budget of $3,319. In financing the building of the church at PotePote in the Congo in 1960-61, and our support of other projects in Africa, South America, India, Pakistan, Hong Kong, Okinawa, Alas- intendent Laird V. Loveland on May 10, 1959. Four hundred members and friends helped us observe 50 years of sacrificial and consecrated giving in an impressive and inspiring manner carried out by Rev. J.T. Coulter on February 27,1939. Bishop Ralph I. Cushman and District Superintendent Dr. Charles O. Thibodeau were with us on April 10th for the second great occasion in celebration of our Golden Anniversary. At the invitation of Rev. Omer Timmons, Bishop Glenn R. Phillips was with us when we reached the 65th year of our Christian journey. As vigorous and hardy as the people who endured the hardships of the prairie, red geraniums bloomed in glorious profusion paying tribute to our founders on our 75th anniversary. The introduction of irrigation to Eastern Colorado agriculture brought Mexican Nationals to work in the beet fields. Under the direction of Rev. Ole Aarvold, the church planned and conducted the first school for children of migrant workers. Following the 1968 merger with the Evangelical United Brethren, and the closing of their Bethune church on Oct. 1, 1970, new members were welcomed by the congrega- tion. Although major improvements were made on the church building through the years, costly repairs and necessary renovation determined the decision to remodel, and in June 1971, the last service was held in the old sanctuary with worship services at the First Christian Church thereafter until Jan. 1972. Membership was at an all-time high of more than 500 when the burning of the mortgage and re-dedication of the newly-remodeled building was celebrat€d in January of 1974. Preserving a piece ofthe past, oak taken from the old building was made into a communion table and the original stained-glass windows remain. The parsonage was sold in 1976, and a new one purchased. Offices and needed classroom space were added to the church in 1976, completing the modernization. by Dorene Buol �THE BURLINGTON CHRISTIAN CHURCH T286 facility, so the building was remodeled and enlarged, most of which was done by the members. Throughout these twenty-one years, church services have been held each Sunday morning and evening with the Lord's Table offered. Bible Study is each Wednesday evening. This is a short history of a relatively young church which remains strong because of many dedicated people who desire to serve the Lord. While various ministers came to watch over "His" flock and left, it is because those that loved the Lord gathered faithfully in His name, giving unselfishly of their time and talent, that this church has grown and remains strong. Burlington Christian Church. People came to America in 1620 to find a new freedom, the right to worship as they pleased. This idea travelled with the pioneers as they headed west and started settling down, making homes, starting churches and schools, determined to live by the Holy Bible with faith and prayers. In April L964, a group of believers assembled to study the Bible as God's Holy Word, believing on Jesus as God's only son and sent to prepare the way. The Burlington Christian Church was officially organized in May with thirty charter members and Dale Mason as Minister. Douglas Hillman, Jack Rutter and Frank Witzel were the first elders. Heeding the Great Commission (Matthew 28:,19,20), the congregation voted in August 1964 to send Clinton B. Thomas of Williamsport, Pennsylvania to the mission field. Clint had previously served in Brazil as a medical missionary, knew the Portuguese language and he needs of the people. In December, the family consisting of Clint, his wife Phyllis, and their three young sons, Tim, Ted, and Tom left their dear friends, security and comforts to serve the Lord in Urucara, Amazones, Brazil. They continue to labor in this area today. Missions have played a major role in the hearts of the Christian believers, supporting work in Hong Kong, Germany and New Guinea. Locally, the congregation has helped to start new churches in Goodland, Hugo and Sterling. The independent Christian churches on the Eastern Slope of Colorado have a beautiful service camp at Como which is used throughout the year. Camp is held for children of all ages, plus marriage enri- chment, singles retreat, family camp, men's roundup, women's retreat and college-career plus weekend skiing for Junior and Senior High youth groups in the winter. Burlington Christian Church has actively supported two christian colleges in the area; nnmely, Platte Valley Bible College at Scotts- bluff, Nebraska and Intermountain Bible College at Grand Junction, Colorado. Our present church is located at 12th and Donelan; it was purchased from the Trinity Lutherans in 1966. (This building was originally located two miles west of Bethune and south of the Correction Line. The concrete steps are still there. The Trinity Lutherans moved the building to its present location in 1944.) The mortgage was burned in 1972. By 1976 the congregation had out-grown this tion for the church loan was made and shortly thereafter granted. By December the new building was ready for occupancy, and on December 5th, the first Sunday services were held in the building, with formal dedication held on December 1gth. Almost a year later (Nov. 1955) the church withdrew from the Arizona Convention and the Denver Association and joined the newly organized Colorado Convention and the Platte Valley association. The next month the congregation set aside Robert L. Edmondson and Jim Winfrey as deacons. Later that month, Rev. Porter resigned (Dec. 14) to move to California where he accepted a church. After being pastorless for two months, the church called Rev. M.W. Richardson (Feb. 12, 1956). He served until May 7, 1958, when he resigned to accept a church in Hotchkiss, FIRST BAPTIST Colorado. T287 Rev. Harry Mallette became our pastor July 2, 1958, and under his leadership, the church moved forward. He served faithfully The First Baptist Church of Burlington until his resignation October 12, 1962, to become pastor of the Valentine, Nebraska CHURCH was founded through the efforts of Rev. and church. Mrs. A.H. Harmon. This Southern Baptist Rev. Jack Porter returned and served a brief interim - Oct. 21 to Nov. 13. The church called Rev. Richard Holland on Dec. 5, 1962. In the spring of 1963 a building committee was formed and plans were made to erect an educational wing onto the present structure. This addition was dedicated on Aug. 22,L965. On January 5, 1966 the church ordained Loren Hurst as an active deacon. Richard Holland resigned the pastorate here, effective Jan. 1, to accept a church in Brighton, couple, with the financial help of two Oklaho- ma churches, began gathering Baptists together in the late spring of 1952. A mission was established and services were held in the American Legion Hall until a building could be erected. A service organizing the mission into a church was held October 5,1952. The church was constituted with 13 charter members. Representatives of the South Baptist Convention and the Arizona Convention took part in the service. The church chose Rev. A.H. Harmon to serve as its first pastor and unanimously voted to join the Southern Baptist Convention and the Southern Baptist Association of Colorado. Thus, under the name "The First Baptist Church", a new work was launched. The following month workers of the Yuma mission were accepted into the membership. In the years that followed, the church started work at Wray and Cheyenne Wells. The work at Wray continues as a church, while the work at Cheyenne Wells folded. During these formative years, the church had the financial support of a Pampa, Texas Baptist Church. In the spring of 1953 a building fund was started and Jim Winfrey was elected to serve as chairman. In the fall of 1953 (September 20th), Rev. Harmon resigned to return to school for further training. The church was pastorless for almost seven months. They elected a Board of Trustees - A.C. Williamson, Jim Winfrey and Earl Van Tassel, and three deacons - Ed Winfrey, Roscoe Johnson and E.T. Straughn. Finally, on April 11, 1954, Rev. Jack Porter of Hackett, Arkansas answered the call for pastor. The next month the church selected six lots at Cherry and Donelan for the site of the proposed building; thus setting aside their action of January 13th, in which they had selected three lots on 17th and Senter. At their regular May business meeting, the congregation voted to apply for a church loan through the Home Mission Board. In this action the church incorporated and two more trustees were elected - Doyle Robertson and Clyde Teague. In June, the formal applica- co. After being pastorless for almost 6 months, Rev. Don Larkin was called to be our pastor. He moved on the field in the middle of June, 1967, and served faithfully until he resigned in the middle of October, 1969, to accept a call to Hereford, Texas. On July 16, 1967, the church voted to purchase the present parsonage. On October 9, 1968, the church voted to recognize Milton Sharp as an active deacon. On October 21, 1969, the church ordained Thomas McCauley and Arthur Schmidt as Deacons. After being pastorless again from October to March, the church called Rev. James Crow of Meridian, Oklahoma, to be pastor. On September 8, 1970, the church licensed Ronnie Beeson into the ministry. February 10, 1971, saw the ordination of three more deacons - Louis Stout, Don Johnson and Jim Sharp. James Crow resigned in 1975 to go back to Oklahoma. Later in 1975 Clyde Allen was called to be pastor. He served approximately one year. In February 1977, Aaron Nutter accepted the call and has been serving the church family since that time. Bob Churchwell, Jim Jordan, Paul Rhodes, and Ray Rhodes were ordained as deacons in May 1982 to serve with Tom McCauley, Art Schmidt and Louis Stout. Don Johnson and Jim Sharp resigned from serving as deacons. �FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH (DISCIPLES oF cHRrsr) T288 The Christian Church of Burlington, Colorado was organized on November 22, 1908, by a small group of Christians led by Brother Charles A. Yersin. They first met in homes, then in the local school house, and later in the Odd Fellows Hall which was the second floor of the building later occupied by Knapp's Plumbing Co. The charter members so far as records show were: C.A. Yersin, Katherine Yersin, W.P. Davis, Mrs. W.P. Davis, Nina F. Norville, Winegar Norville, Mrs. S.P. Shaw, William Parke, Mrs. William Parke, Pamelia Brinkley, Cynthia Boyles, Rhoda Yersin Scofield, Mrs. James W. Sparks, Mr. George Pflum. Mrs. Edna Pflum. Mr. Yersin, who had been ordained a minister of the Christian Church at Liberty, Missouri in 1875, served without pay the growing church its beginning until 1917. At this time Mrs. Yersin's health failed, so they went to Missouri for the winter. A revival had been held to increase the membership and interest. It is presumed a minister was hired for part of the time up to 1917. The congregation must have been consecrated. faithful and prayerful. Early members remember that many prayer meetings were held in the Yersin yard, and the Aid Society met at the home which was located 172 blocks east of Bonny Drive. The congregation grew to such an extent that there was need for a church home. To help with this project Mr. W.W. Brinkley gave part of his barn lots, and moved his fence back. The basement was soon started and rushed to be finished for use so the Ladies' Aid would have a place to meet and serve dinners. And there were many such dinners. Many land seekers were brought in by the Winegar Land Company. These men were taken out to look at land, and brought back to town to be served delicious home-cooked his service to the church that the Christian Women's Board of Missions was organized. Mrs. Robins was our first president. It was a strong organization at that time having as many as fifty or more members. It did not take the place of the Aid Society because many women were avid quilters. When Mr. Anderson left, Mr. Yersin was to keep things going. The next minister was Thomas Carey and his wife who served for one year. They made a temporary home in the church basement. They left and again services were carried on by laymen and Mr. Yersin. We were able to secure Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Hageman and family who served for 1925 to 1927. They did a fine work in Burlington with their talent for music and their leadership ability. The Christian Women's Board of Missions and Aid Society were active. Mrs. Nina Norville Winegar was chosen pianist and Mr. Hageman led the choir. Again the Iadies served many dinners to help raise money for various church activities. A need for a parsonage was felt. After many discussions the decision was made to build if conveniently located lots could be expense money, but there are no available records to show their accomplishments. Memory is uncertain for the period from 1917 to 1921. Rev. A.L. Anderson came in 1921. He and his family lived in a temporary parsonage at the south end of Main Street. It was during September 1940 the army took many young men for training at Fort Sill. Among those was Asa Calvin, who served as a captain. Mr. Green kept folks busy and made many friends for the struggling church. Then came discouraging news. Several years before Main Street had been paved. The expense of paving was allotted to each lot along the street. The church group owned lots on both sides of the street. The paving expense had been overlooked for some reason. Interest had accumulated on the debt until it amounted to quite a sum. A loan was secured from the Board of Church Extension in Indianapolis to pay this debt. By serving dinners, serving at sales, and quilting, and gifts from outside friends the debt was gradually reduced. Mr. Bashor, a wheat farmer, paid the last 9250.00. Again the Little White Church was out of debt. Mr. Green left for another field of ministry August 5, 1943. Lawrence Baird and family came in September 1945. He stayed until May of 1946. In Mr. W.F. Calvin, Mr. Somers, and many others whose names are not available. Mr. Hageman and family left for other work so we were without a pastor for several months. Again laymen and Mr. Yersin carried on. In 1947 Mr. J.L. TSmer and family were called. The leadership ability of these fine people kept all departments active. Mrs. Tyner, an ordained minister, kept young folk and children interested. Mrs. Tyner conducted a complete church service for the youngsters in the basement. This included communion and a sermon. This service is outstanding in the memory of those who attended the children's church. The Tyners left in the Spring of 1936. The bell was run faithfully as long as it remained in the "Little White Church." There is a break in the history here. The of the Ladies' Aid kept providing some activities. from friends, and many hours of labor given by Mr. Haughey, a contractor, Mr. Hageman, produce a fair living for everyone. During that time the Little White Church continued to point our spirits to higher goals. Credit must be given to the laymen who continued to carry on in spite of depressions in finance as well as in church attendance. Among these faithful leaders was E.T. Straughn who always had scripture reading church continued on; dinners and the work young people in Christian Endeavor, TriCounty Endeavor and Rallies and other October 16, 1943 Mr. Franklin Page and Mrs. Page came to serve the church until April 1945. Several months passed before Mr. On December 1, 1910, the Little White Church building had been completed, and it wad dedicated. The tower for the bell was included in the building plans, but it was some time later that the bell was purchased, again with money given by generous people in town. It was the cherished ambition of Mr. Yersin that a bell be placed in the church. He loved to ring the bell each Sunday to call members to worship. On July 25, 1940, Mr. Lloyd Green and family came. They worked faithfully with the secured. The lots across the street west of the church were possible by the very popular and delicious dinners served by the ladies, by help For several months there was no minister. These were times when crops were not too good. Salaries were very low. Mr. Sutton and his family came from 1936 to 1938. The fall of 1938 brought Mr. and Mrs. Coleman who stayed one year. During his ministry two young men were ordained to be ministers. They were Bob Davis and Francis Wheeler. These were the times when money was not dinners by the Ladies' Aid. This money helped with the building expenses. A little later a mortgage was put on the building to help finish it, but most of the money needed came from generous gifts by people who lived in Burlington at the time. other work. plentiful. Crops were planted in faith. Grasshoppers took their share, lack of moisture reduced the crops' yield, and farmers were left with the hope that the next year would and a short message before communion service which was never omitted. This held the few faithful together. Another layman was Asa Calvin who took his turn with the morning services. Freeman was a faithful pianist and music director for many years. At times Mr. Jansen, a farmer minister, filled the pulpit. Mr. Ralph Bixel came in 1939. He remained only a few months then went into September 1946 Mr. Eugene Palmer and family came. They worked faithfully with the young people and in district church rallies. In September 1947 the Alleys left for other fields. Mr. Pontius, an interim minister, came in October 1947. Each week he drove out from Denver. In May 1948 Mr. and Mrs. Colglazier came to Burlington to make their home. Mrs. Colglazier and Mrs. W.L. Fisher, choir director, added to the services with good song services and music. Mr. Pontius continued to serve until July 1949 when Mr. Green was called back for a second time. An Easter Cantata was presented to the largest crowd ever to assemble at any of our services. The crowd was so large a loud speaker was put in the basement for the overflow crowd. This made the congregation more aware of the need for a larger building. Finally plans were made to build on lots already purchased at 16th and Senter Streets. The church building was sold to the Masonic Temple. A temporary meeting place had to be secured. The armory was rented for morning services, and the basement of the parsonage was used. Services began in the armory on May 6, 1951. Here the morning church services and adult Sunday School classes met. The Junior and Primary Sunday School classes, and all evening services, were held in the parsonage. This building became the center of all church activities. The Vacation Bible School for 1951 was held jointly with the Methodist Church from May 28 to June 8, 1951. It is reported to have been a very successful church school. The following year, while building the new church, the Vacation School was held at the parsonage. Plans for the new church had been accepted and work was soon to begin. On Sunday afternoon, June 2, 1951, a ground breaking service was held on the lots at 16th and Senter Streets. Several assisted in the service. Mr. E.T. Straughn, Chairman of the Board of �Trustees, turned the first spadeful of dirt. This was a very impressive service. Records show that Mr. Ray Schlosser used his equipment to dig trenches for the foundation and the basement. This work was completed, a some of the foundation base was poured by September 2, 1951. The laminated beams were being erected by October 21, 1951. The walls were put up ready for the cornerstone by the first ofthe year, 1952. On January 20,1952, the service for "Laying the Cornerstone" was held. Mr. E.T. Straughn gave the invocation, Mr. Lloyd Green, W.L. Fisher (Chairman of the Building Committee), Asa Calvin (Secretary of the Committee), Lloyd Billington, W.G. Colglazier, Marvin Gilbert (Treasurer), Clark Rutter, Herbert Dillion and G.S. Schlosser participated in laying the cornerstone. The parsonage was sold before the new church was completed, and the house just east of the church was purchased for the parsonage. Mention must be made of the loyalty of the church choir during our building days. On March 25, 1952, a cantata, "The First Easter" was given to a full house. Later a program of religious songs was given on June 8. A Christmas cantata was presented December 2, L952. During the building days there were nineteen members added to the church. The men of the church were very faithful in giving of their time to work on the building. Friends gave both time and money to help carry on. Each summer the Christian Women's Fellowship, with the help of the men, had a food stand at the County Fair. All of this helped to make possible the early completion of the building by the last of May 1953. The seats were installed, the organ put in, and everything ready for the long-anticipated day when we could begin holding our services in the new church building. The first service was held in the new building on May 24, 1953. June 7, 1953 the church building was dedicated. At 2:30 p.m. the sanctuary and the fellowship room were filled with friends and members to be a part of the Dedicatory Service. The program consisted in part ofthe following service. Scripture and prayer by W.L. Fisher. Greeting by Harold McArthur, Mayor of Burlington, and by the presidents of the various clubs. Greetings were brought by Maurice F. Lyeria, Executive Secretary of the Christian Churches in Colorado, and Mrs. Howland, the State Secretary of Christian Women's Fellowship, and Mr. Rolland Sheafor, Treasurer of the Board of the Church Extension. The Christian Business Mens' Club of Burlington brought a message in song. The lectern was loving built by William Haughey and given in memory of his mother and father. The pulpit wa(rliven in honor of Mr. and Mrs. C.A. Yersin, and the communion table in honor of Mr. and Mrs. W.F. Calvin. The sedilia behind the communion table was given in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Sommers. Mr. Green continued to serve the church until December 15, 1954. He did not leave without helping to plan for the future. Mr. John S. George was secured to come. He preached his first setmon here on December 26, 1954. He was a quiet, consecrated man who had planned to retire, but gave more than two years of service in Burlington. He went back to retirement March 17, 1957. By this time Mr. F. Edward Carter had been secured. He arrived in Burlington on March 22, 1957. His reception in Burlington was a chilly one, for one of the Christian Men's Fellowship have found ways to raise money to apply on the debt, and the Christian Women's Fellowship have been serving dinners for the Rotary Club, and other organizations. The debt on the building now, as of November 1, is $6,131.70, and is being retired at the rate of $300.00 per month. A door is opening on a new era. As the tower of the Little White Church pointed the thoughts upward, keeping each worshiper faithful and loyal, so the new church with its graceful sloping roof framing the cross points upward - an inspiration and challenge for the future. The historical progress ofthis congregation again hits a highlight when on November 23, 1958, the Church reached its fiftieth year of existence. The event was commemorated by a day of services. The first of these services, sponsored by the C.M.F. was held at 9:00 o'clock, in the first church home, the little white structure at 14th and Donelan. now the Masonic Temple. Although the building had been remodeled, many felt a pang of nostalgia as they listened to inspired works in the old setting. At ten o'clock services were continued in the U.S. Armory, where we had held our services from the time we sold our old building until the Church was finished. The C.W.F. was in charge of this step of the day's program, with Mrs. A.R. Bemis of the Colorado Missionary Society, bringing the address. An afternoon service was next on the ground. G. Everett Figgs spoke on the subject "The Church Looks Forward." The Fiftieth Anniversary Celebration culminated with a dinner in the fellowship room of the new for a short time until we could locate a regular pastor. Rev. Elmer Early was hired and came with his family in June; he served only one year, due to family illness. Again we were without a minister. Rev. Patrick came to Burlington on October 16, 1964 with his wife. Roxie. The Patricks had three children, two boys and a girl; all now grown. By the summer of 1966 it had become very evident that we were outgrowing our church for educational purposes. There was much discussion and study on this subject. The best solution seemed to be to purchase the Wilcox house, acrogs the street to the west and Vz block north. This to be used as a parsonage. By a congregational vote the necessary arrangements were made and by December 11, 1966 we dedicated our new improvements. The congregation now entered another decade of worship and progress toward the future, with faith and high plans for the Church. The old bell rang out each Sunday letting people know it was time to come to share God's blessings. November 10, 1968 the Church reached its 60th year of service to God. A celebration was held, the program beginning with Bible School at 9:45 with the dedication of the old bell on the tower in front of the Church. to the memory of Lloyd Billington. Special speaker for the 10:50 service was Dr. Elza Hawkins from Phillips University, Enid, Oklahoma. The noon luncheon was followed by the reading of the history and letters of greetings from former ministers, members and friends. The congregation now goes ahead with the same dedication and determination as that of their ancestors and fellow Christian workers of 60 years ago. Rev. Patrick left the Church to serve his Lord in Nebraska in 1970. Now again the Church, the lighting ofthe birthday cake, and a service led by the youth of the Church. Church was left without a leader. During this The First Christian Church of Burlington looks forward to continuing its work for our Lord as it has done in the past happy, yet sometimes turbulent, years. Rev. Carter was called to Loveland, Colorado on a Church building mission. Rev. C. Wendelle Tolle answered our call and came to direct our spiritual needs, arriving in the fall of 1959. On November 6, 1950 we achieved another important goal. On this day we held a special meeting for the purpose of burning the pastor, the Rev. and Mrs. Norvil Underwood. Under their direction and untiring efforts, 31 members came into the Church. 12 by baptism and 19 by transfer. The Underwoods were with the Church for seven months. Their contributions to the Church were felt by their visitation, their expertise, program and management. In 1970 Rev. George Sanders and wife, mortgage. We had accomplished this feat by prayer, hard work and monetary giving on the part of the whole congregation. years; however, during their stay these items were presented as memorials - The cross on become a total church program. Profits have increased each year. This goes a long way in Hubert Dillion, who was the first president of the organization. The United States Flag was bought during this time. Also, a new The food booth at the County Fair has furthering the work of the Lord. It was during this time that a situation developed that was most unfortunate. Influence that came from the outside, contributed to the discontent of several families. Finally these families of their own volition left this church and formed another congregation known as the Burlington Christian Church. It is considered an "independent" congregation, not affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). It is to Rev. Tolle's credit that he stayed on through most of this difficult period for the sake of the church. In the spring of 1964 Rev. C.W. Tolle left us to serve another congregation. Rev. Merandia, an interim minister, filled the pulpit time the Church was served by interim Barbara, came to gerve the Church. Somehow interest dropped off during the next two the communion table was given by the Christian Men's Fellowship in memory of Christian flag was bought from the carddund monies. Rev. Sanders resigned inL972. The church officers decided not to call an interim minister, but to fill the pulpit with local members. This proved very satisfactory. Dr. Don Sarton and his wife, Cathy, and two children were called to serve the Church in July L972. A reception was held in the Church Fellowship Hall to welcome the young minister and his family. Dr. Sarton brought much enthusiasm and hope to the whole Church body. He was very interested in the youth and this group grew accordingly. One high point during this time was the Witness Mission Week in March. Out of this �gpowth was the formation of a Prayer Group. Twelve young people accepted Jesus and were baptized. Eight adults transferred their The Sartons left the Church in November 1976 to accept a Church call in Loveland, Colorado. The church folk felt a great loss at membership. A cloth for the Communion table was given by the Ted Schnase family as a memorial to their grandparents. Also, the choir robes were given by Mrs. Mable Jewell in memory of her their leaving. sister, Mrs. Nina Christenson. Both gifts added much to the worship service. The Church enjoyed several years of a debt-free period in which everyone felt the freedom to relax after the long years of struggle that began in 1908. We have only to review the history of the lean times when the few dedicated Christians put their trust in God and their great faith in the future which brought this beautiful structure so far for so many new members to look at and to say "This is our Church where we are free to worship as we please." A public address system was installed in the Church sanctuary. In1973, with the help of the lay members of the United Methodist Church, a Lay Witness Mission Week-end, a new spiritfilled awareness of God's presence was experienced by many. This brought about prayer gloups. The year 1975 saw the plans for a larger educational and administration building. The study and plans committee were: Nina McCune, Wanda McClelland, Nada Jarnigan, Bessie Windscheffel, John Dobler, Jerry Brenner, Kent Harrel, Gary Peterson, Duane Smith. John McClelland and Ex-officio pastor Don Sarton and John Swick, Chairman. Architect was Johnson, Hobson and Associates out of Denver; Bob Root, principal Architect. General contractor was Herman Construction, Burlington, Colorado. Micky McCune was chairman of the board. The beautiful addition to the already beautiful Church was an outstanding edifice erected to honor the Glory of God. It was dedicated in 1976. The addition provided more class rooms, a game room for the youth, much needed Pastors study and Secretary offices. The kitchen and fellowship hall were enlarged. The spacious facilities are used by many organizations in the town. In 1978 the Church joined with the Colorado Christian Home in celebrating its 75th Anniversary. The Wee Blew Inn, a preschool, was begun in 2 rooms of the Church in 1979. Extended sessions began in 1979. This was a program for the little folks to attend during regular Church services. Work on the church was a spring project in 1979. The pews in the sanctuary were sanded and refinished. The baptistry and cry room were cleaned, painted, and repaired as needed. The roof on the fellowship hall was repaired. In 1971 the Government had approved the building of the low-income housing project in Burlington. Since a nonprofit organization had to be secured to sponsor this undertaking, the City Council approached the Church to do this. After much thought and prayer, the Church accepted the sponsorship of the project. The project was started in 1972, with the approval of the plans. The groundbreaking was in 1973. Completion in 1974. The housing consisted of three units, each containing 18 apartments; one, two, three and four bedrooms. Needless to say, this met the demands of many people. The complex became known as "The Burlington Manor". Rev. and Mrs. Norvil Underwood came to serve the Church in the absence of a minister. They spent many hours visiting to revive interests that had been overlooked in the months of building. Their special interests were the young people. Rev. and Mrs. Edward Barnes, along with their four children, came to the Church in June 1977 from lllinois. They came for an interview in February to witness the worst dust storm in the year; so many of the congregation remarked, "They will not return." But as Rev. Barnes said in his first sermon, "We have returned." The family was welcomed with a reception sponsored by the Membership Committce. The Church now faced the second phase of paying off the indebtedness incurred by the building of the educational unit completed the year before. Rev. Barnes was interested in the creation of workshop training programs. Bible studies and many other experiences that helped the Church grow. He also added much to the dignity and pride of the Church. He was a man of high ideals as well as spiritual values as shown in his attitude toward the congregation as well as with the town people. May 12, 1981, was Rev. Barnes last Sunday with the Church. From that date until the second week in July the pulpit was filled by local men. At this time, the Pulpit Committee was responsible for the speakers. In Septerrber of 1981 the Pulpit Commit- tee contacted the Rev. Kelby Cotton in Kentucky, who showed interest in coming to Colorado. After much conversation via telephone, a meeting was arranged with Rev. Cotton and the congregation. The Rev. Cotton and his wife, Lyn, with their infant daughter, Emily, arrived in November 1981 to a happy crowd of Christians who were eagerly awaiting their arrival. Needless to say the reception given for them was enjoyed by everyone. The Cottons brought youth to the church with many new ideas and much enthusiasm. It is apparent that with the love they brought with them and the loved returned to them, the Church will go forward in the years ahead. As the months went by the interest grew, with many inactive members returning to worship. The Elders Prayer Circle, held each Sunday morning at 9 o'clock, became the high point of inspiration to the leaders of the Church. In the twelve months the Rev. Cotton was Pastor, twenty-two people have given their lives to God either through baptism or transfer. In December 1982 the first woman to serve as elder was given the honor and privilege to serve her God and Church in this capacity. Mrs. Bill (Bobbie) Fisher was given this honor. This step showed a growth in the Christian attitude toward all people involved in the work of the whole Church, as well as love and respect for all persons. As this era in the life of the Church comes to a close. the "old bell" on the tall tower continues to ring each Sabbath Morning calling the folk to worship. With determined faith, we look forward toward years ofservice to God with thanks to the little band of brave Christians, who, in 1908, began this Church, giving it a foundation sound enough to stand these seventy-five years. by Mrs. Bill (Bobbie) Fisher, Ilistorian BETHEL ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH T289 The dreams of founding a church in Burlington actually began in 1965. Having finished a building program in Castle Rock, Colorado, Pastor William Behrman felt a restless stirring in his heart to pioneer a church in a new field. Believing that God wanted him to remain in Colorado, he obtained a map and, seeking the leading of the Lord, was drawn to a small dot called Burlington. With a small sum of money, a wife, five children, and a strong sense of God's direction in his heart, he made plans to pioneer a new work in Burlington. Under the direction of Pastor Behrman, Sunday School began in the home ofDon and Llmn Cave on the first Sunday in February, 1967. There were seven people in attendance. Four months later, the Behrmans moved to Burlington from their former pastorate, and on June 11, 1967, the first service was held with Brother and Sister Behrman as pastors. They came with the promise of one family and ninety dollars a month. Services continued in the hospitable atmo- sphere of the Cave home until July 16, when Revival services under the Gospel tent were held at the County Fairgrounds. There were 41 people present that first night while flashbulbs popped throughout the service as an inquisitive reporter from the Kansas City Star gathered news for the Saturday edition of the paper. Attendance reached nearly 100 in the tent meeting and many were drawn to the Lord. Services continued under the Big Top until the Burlington Elementary School was used, beginning September 3 with 34 in Sunday School. Plans to build began immediately and on October 23, 1967, a 9200 down payment was made on the present property. Groundbreaking services were held on March 31, 1968, inaugurating the construction ofthe church building. The partially completed church was the site of a July revival in which heavy rains failed to dampen the revival spirit as God blessed and people met God each night. By Christmas of 1968, we were able to have services in the sanctuary. Having only bare floors, folding chairs, and plywood over the windows, we sensed the blessing and the leading of the Lord. The original sanctuary was dedicated on January L7, L974. With the pressing need of space for Sunday School, another educational addition and office complex was constructed in 1975. In L978,\yr acres of land on Rose Avenue was purchased for the eventual construction of a new worship and educational facility. Groundbreaking ceremonies at the new site were held in 1986. The new building will be ready for occupancy in the spring of 1988. The church was begun as a home mission. With its growth, the missionary vision continues. There have been students from Bethel Assembly of God in Bible College continuously since 1973. There are presently 16 �first services in their own church building, purchased from Seibert, Colorado and moved onto a church-formed basement, located on 47 acres of land 5 miles west of Burlington on F't.24. The church started a day school in the fall of L977 and ran the school for one year. Dr. Paul Seanor continued as pastor until September, 1978. Reverend Eager assumed the position until March, 1979. :,ji;:.,:ri:ll tp::ilr1:t: New facilities under construction in 1988. In April of 1979, the church requested sponsorship from the Fellowship of Baptists for Home Missions. The Dick Stitzel Family, missionaries under F.B.H.M., began their ministry on Sunday, August 12th, 1979. It was also in August that the church voted to sell their 47 acres, with buildings, and seek land in the town of Burlington. The land and buildings were sold to one of the church deacons, who graciously allowed the church to continue holding services in the building until they could relocate in town. Eight lots on the west edge of Burlington were bought from the city in the spring of 1980. Ground breaking services were held May 31, 1981 and construction began in June. On Sunday, January 2, 1983, the church entered its new building. On March 5, 1983 at 2:00 P.M., the church gathered to dedicate their new building to the Lord. In 1987 the church building was sold and now houses the Senior Citizens Center. Our congregation joined with the Church of the Open Door in Burlington, CO. BURLINGTON GOSPEL CHAPEL T2gl Pioneering the new church in 1967 involved in the full time ministry plus several others in Bible Study and lay ministry. Over twenty years have passed since the dot on the map marking Burlington became a reality to Pastor Behrman, but the vision continues to grow and present a challenge to share Christ and His love with manv. by Pastor Behrman Burlington Gospel Chapel FAITH BAPTIST CHURCH T290 Early in 1975 a group of four families began to hold home Bible studies with Dr. Paul Seanor traveling weekly from Adam City, Colorado to hold classes. The fellowship was organized Sunday afternoon June 8, 1975, in the Burlington Community Center, where afternoon services has been held. At that meeting the name of Independent Faith Baptist Church of Burlington was chosen and the young church elected its first officers. Meetings were later moved to a small two-room building on Ross Avenue. On February 22,1976, the church held its The Burlington Gospel Chapel is located at 314 - 12th St. in Burlington, CO. It was built in 1948 and the dedication was held in the spring of 1949. As the church has no regular pastor, apparently there has been no history kept. The congregation has varied in numbers over the years, the largest crowd being some over 100. by Roy Johnson �LDS CHURCII, BURLINGTON Betty Hickman, Virgil and Evelyn Johnson, Bill Water, Alice Sparks, Marvin and Bernice T292 Gibson, Sylvia Rails, Charlotte Stosser, Basil and George Budge, Amanda, Merrill and Dale Clark, Mrs. M.B. Middleton, Max and Gloria Wamsley, Mable Letcher, Marion Cook and family. In August, 1966, the 4Square Building at 17th and Donelan was rented for $15.00 a month, still a Dependent Sunday School on Scott City. Bobby Knudsen was in charge. New members moving in were: Bobby, EdnaLee, Robert, Eric, Edward and Anita Knudsen; Edward, Janice, Galen, Bruce, and Sandra Marie Cole; Leslie, Juani- ta, Lynn, Lester Mark, Lance and Loretta (Kris) Davis; Lonnie, Tora, Jami Lynn and Devin Dunn, and Gerold Delehoy. Year 1967 the first missionaries to the area Elders Smith and Wallberger. New members were: Jo Clare Mangus; Guy and Maurene Kuttler; Robert and Judy Watts; Ted, Gwen, James, Burlington Branch LDS Church from 1972 to 1980 This is the story of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints - Burlington Branch 1960-1988. The Sunday School teachers in 1960 were Virgil Johnson and Myrtle Collins. Members met in the homes of Betty Hickman and Myrtle Collins and attended services in Scott City, Ks. We were a Dependent Sunday School on Scott City, at this time. Members were, Myrtle Collins, Reno, and Barbara Killian; Sanford and Bruce Taylor; Carl and Dean Mullis; Judy Lance; Ken Burdick. Gwen Killian conducted the 1st. MIA for the young people. In June 1968, the Billington family moved to Burlington, to take over the family farm. The Knudsens moved to Burlington and rented a house from Mollie Gross. Year 1969 the Relief Society held meetings, and year 1970 found the Church still growing, with Brother and Sister Larsen, missionaries, attending. During this year, during a dust storm, a car in which Roberta Uhren of Wichita, Ks. was riding, ran under a big truck that had jackknifed in the road. She was taken to the hospital in Goodland, expected to die. Bobby Knudsen, the presiding Elder, gave her a blessing, promising that she would live. A daughter, Barbara Cook, came and took her mother to Wichita. Barbara and her mother paid a return visit to the Burlington Branch in 1977 and thanked Brother Knudsen. Year 1971 found the Church in the Colorado-New Mexico Mission. In the year 197172, Pat Billington was in charge of Primary and doing the secretarial job also. Seminary class was taught by Janice Cole. In June 1972 Bobby Knudsen was released as Presiding Elder. Several baptisms were performed in July at Bonny Dam. Sept., 1972, the lst. Annual Branch Conference was held; we are now an Independent Branch. The lst presidency is: Richard Chisholm, Pres. Lawrence Burkey, lst Counsellor. DeWayne Glazier, 2nd Counsellor. Patricia Billington, Relief Society Pres. Jo Clare Mangus, 1st Counsellor. Cheryl Condit, Sec. Sunday School Supt. Dewayne Glazier, lst assistant, Bobby Knudsen, Maurene Kuttler, Sec. Supt of YMIA, Bobby Knudsen. Pres. of YWMIA, Jeanette Glazier. Primary President, Norma Burkey, 1st Counsellor, Cheryl Condit. Librarian, Carla Billington. In January 1973, we had a recorded 106 members in our Branch. In Sept. Pres. Chisholm moved to Nebraska, released of the presidency. Lawrence Burkey is sustained and set apart as the new Branch President, with DeWayne Glazier and Merrill Clark as his counsellors. In Oct. the 2nd Annual Branch Conference was held. In April 14,L974, Robert Lowe is sustained as Sunday School President. On June 30, Bobby Knudsen was released as Elder's Group Leader; James Baker was sustained and set apart as the new Elder's Group Leader. On July 23, the Primary held a Pioneer gathering at the Burkey home in honor of the Mormon Pioneers who reached the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, L847. Pioneer attire was worn; pioneer food was served. Stories of early pioneers were told and songs were sung by the Primary children. On Sept. 29, the 3rd Annual Branch Conference was held. Year 1975 finds a change in the membership again, several families moved out, and new ones moving in. The 4th Annual Branch Conference was held the 28 of Sept. We are now in the Colorado - Denver Mission. We start fund raising projects for our building fund. Year 1976, the membership is now 111. March 17, the Relief Society held its birthday party at Pat Billington's home. A delicious Mexican dinner was prepared by the Silvestre Garcia family. May 10, 1976 various church members went to look at the Ja-ss house, with the thought of a possible purchase to convert it to a Chapel. Salt Lake did not approve it. The Relief Society and the Priesthood had a booth at the Little Britches Rodeo; they called it "Grandmother's Pan- try" to help raise money for the building fund. In August, Maurene Kuttler was sustained as Relief Society Pres., Julia Baxter and Pat Billington as counsellors, Norma Burkey as sec. Sept. 8, Charles Seymour located some land across from the cemetery in Burlington. Lawrence Burkey talked to the owner, Les Patterson, regarding the purchase of it. New families moving in were; Leon Budd and family, Ivan Cole and family. Leon Budd will be the assistant Mgr. of the Co-op. Linda Budd is sustained as the Primary Pres. Glenda Cole and Bonnie Bryant is the Grandmother's Pantry at Little Britches, June 12, 19?6 counsellors. Leon Budd is sustained as Branch Clerk. November 23. the Fifth An- �Couns. Peggy Norman and Mary Larsen; Sec. Frances Hamblin; Primary Pres. Cheryle Lowe; Couns. Judy Ballensky and Sally Gaily; Sec. Norma Burkey; Sunday School Pres. Lester Davis; Couns. Adam Burkey; Sec. Pat Billington. April 13, a change in meeting schedules is recommended by Salt Lake to help cut down on travel expense. Juanita Davis is sustained at Chorister in Primary; Peggy Norman is sustained as Nursery Leader in Primary. May and June finds members working on the sprinkler systems, digging out the trenches several times, due to the rain storms filling them up several times. July 13, we have a new family, James and Maxine Matthews and daughters. He is the new superintendent of the Vona-Seibert Schools. Oct., 1980 the Branch has 146 members on record. Oct. 5, we get General Conference piped into our Chapel from Salt Lake. Oct. 13, we put grass in at the Chapel. Many hours of service, fund raising projects; our goal was $28,000.00, for our part. Up to this time my history was taken from history written by Norma Burkey. The following years will be condensed, I have tried to get as many names as possible, however some will be left out. Everyone has been important to the building up of our Lord's Church here in the Burlington area. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Burlington, occupied in early 1980 The Presidency changed three times, Wes Ballensky, 1981-82. Don Frankham 1982-85. James Matthews 1985 to the present time 11988. The Relief Society changed three times, Cheryl Low 1981-82, Aggie Hamilton 19831986, Juanita David 1986, to the present time. The Primary Presidents, Sharon Wyatt, Mary Kaye Baum, (President now). Patricia Billington is YWMIA President now. The Relief Society is the women's organi- nual Branch Conference was held, the new presidency, Leon Budd, Pres. Lawrence sustained as Pres.; Wes Ballensky and Timothy Tucker as Counsellors; Lawrence Burkey Burkey and Dale Baxter, as counsellors. Dec. 23, the Primary and Sunday School presented a Christmas Program telling of the birth of Christ. Santa arrived at the party with sacks of candy for the children. In the summer of 1977 more families are added to as Clerk; Mike Marting, Elder's Quorum the Burlington Branch: Hugh and Peggy Norman and children, Michael and Barbara Marting and children, Irene Owens, Ivo and Barbara Peterson and daughter, Connie Pemberton and son, John and Cheryl Lowe and son. August 1977, three acres were purchased from Ralph and Lester Peterson. The title is final this month. It is located on 15th St., west of the Burlington Cemetery. Pres. Budd pledged March 1, 1978, as the date to start the new Chapel. In December we have the Wes Ballensky family move in; he is the Pharmacist at Pangborns. June 11, 1978, changes in the Presidency are Hugh Norman Pres., Lawrence Burkey and Michael Marting Counsellors, Wes Ballensky, branch Clerk. Jo Clare Mangus, the Relief Society Pres., Bunnie Bryant and Peggy Norman as Counsellors. Sept. 3, President Norman announced that the Church Presidency in Salt Lake has approv- ed the Church building plans. Oct. 19, President Hugh Norman performs the marriage of Lance Davis and Lori Holm at the home of Les and Juanita Davis in Stratton. Oct.22, a new family of 11join our Branch, Paul and Frances Hamblin. March 18, 1979, the 8th Annual Branch Conference was held. Paul Hamblin was Pres.; Sunday School Pres. John Lowe; lst Couns. Lester Davis: Sec.. Lori Davis: Pres. of YM Lance Davis, Pres. of YW Barbara Marting, Primary Pres. Pat Billington; Couns., Judy Ballensky; Sec., Norma Burkey; Music chairman, Cheryl Lowe; Librarian Norma Burkey and Bunnie Bryant. This is the 1st conference held at the rented Chapel at Donelan and 17th, and 75 members attended. April 29, Lance Davis is sustained as Priest's Quorum Advisor. July 1, Lori Davis is sustained as YWMIA Leader: Adam Burkey is sustained as 2nd Couns. in Sunday School. August 4, 1979 that long awaited day: "Ground Breaking" Ceremony at 1:00 p.m. Many members and visitors were present. After the Ground Breaking, we met at the Burlington Park for punch and cookies. August 8, MIA met at the Lance Davis home in Stratton, for a cookout in honor of Susan Billington and Elitha Pelton. Sept. 14, 1979 our cookbook is organized and sent to the publishers with 450 recipes from the sisters in the Branch. October found members working on the sprinkler system. In Nov. and Dec. we have more fund raising projects. Febr. 1980, the members started to paint the outside of the new Chapel. March 16, 1980, the Burlington Branch held its 9th Annual Conference in the New Chapel; 103 members are present. Sustained this day are: Pres. Paul Hamblin; Couns., Wes Ballensky and Harold Fillmore; Clerk, Lawrence Burkey; Relief Society Pres. Jo Clare Mangus; zation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints. The Mission of the Relief Society is to help women: 1 - Have faith in God and build individual testimonies of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 - Strength- en the families of the Church. 3 - Render compassionate service. 4 - Sustain the priesthood. The Primary is an organized program of instruction and activity in the LDS Church for children between the ages of3 and 12. Its purpose is to teach children they are children of our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and that Heavenly Father and Jesus love them. They are helped to grow in their understanding of the gospel plan and are provided with opportunities to put these principles into practice. The Primary colors are red for Courage, Yellow for service, and Blue for Truth. Just as these colors are the foundation from which all others are developed, so are Primary teachings the foundation on which children build firm testimonies of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Children meet weekly on Sunday for religious instruction from the Bible, The Book of Mormon, and the Doctrine and Covenants. The children also worship through music. Some of these songs are rmong the most beautiful children's songs in publication today. They are happy songs with wonderful messages. Primary activity days are scheduled during a week day, quarterly. These activities encourage children to interact with each other and have wholesome fun through involvement in physical, cultural, creative and service events. Activity days are sometimes held just for the �children or they are coordinated with other family activities. One of the most recent activities was a special Christmas fanily evening. All the members of the children's families were invited. The members sat in an informal semi-circle while the children pre- sented the Nativity. Each child placed a figurine upon a display table for all to view, then explained how the object related to the birth of the Christ Child. During the presentation all joined in with appropriate scripture readings and Christmas Carols. A story about Jolly Old St. Nick tied in symbolic giving of Santa with the birth of Baby Jesus. Santa concluded the program by carrying Baby Jesus to the manger and placing him inside while families sang "Silent Night". Santa stayed to visit with the children, giving them treats and make out his Christmas gift list while Moms and Dads munched on Christmas goodies and punch. Dec. 20, 1987 - Members met at the Church for a Christmas caroling party, after returning from caroling, chili and hot chocolate was enjoyed by all. January 10, our High councilmen and their families came to our Church Services. This was also Pot Luck Sunday. (When we have Stake visitors we prepare dinner for them ag it is a long way to drive to and from Denver.) All the ladies of the ReliefSociety prepare hot dishes, salads, and desserts for the meal. Our membership at the people. present time is 59 families - 135 during We the had six families move away summer and fall of 1987. We have two new families moving in this month. "Self-judgement in any direction is a hazardous pastime. It is a fact of life that the direction in which we are moving is more important than where are." Elder Marvin J. moved to Burlington to serve St. Paul's and Immanuel's, located eleven miles N.E. of Bethune. He conducted two services every Sunday, one in the morning and another in the afternoon, alternating each Sunday. This arrangement lasted the entire time that Pastor Woelber served the two congregations. In 1931 a frnme, three bedroom parsonage was built next to the basement church. In the mid thirties the Great Depression plus four years ofdrought caused many people to leave the Burlington area. In the 1940's better crops were being raised and following World War II with a rising economy, plans for a new sanctuary were considered. Pastor Woelber served both congregations faithfully for seventeen years and in 1947 accepted a call to Loveland, Colorado. In February 1947 Rev. L.C. Johnson was called to serve, and under his leadership the vision of a new sanctuary became a reality. The erection of the new church presented faithfully served the church until the close of harmony with the nature of this territory and fitting the general pattern of the buildings of purchased, the foundation was laid Nov. 1927. The church was then located just west of where it is today. During the assembly year of 1927 and up to the fall of 1928 the church was without a pastor the major part of the time. Sister Elizabeth Clifford assumed the responsibility of work and regular Sunday Services. Had it not been for the devote and unending efforts of this saintly woman, there would doubtless not be a Church of the Nazarene decision was made to build a modified Spanish Mission style, one that would be in the city of Burlington. The brick structure was built largely by members of the congregation. Records reveal that a total of 1589 man days and 113 evenings were donated. The church furniture represented a great deal of work. The altar, pulpit, lectern, kneeling rail, and pews were all made at the site. Solid oak was brought in by some men of the congregation, nanely Leonard Krebs and Orvel Aeschlimann. The wood was FIRST ST. PAUL'S LUTHERAN CIIURCH T293 from debt. During the pastorate of Flossie Plummer leaving the older one free to be used primarily as a Christian Education Building. The building was given the name of The Alpha House. Through the years a continuation of improvements was noted. For sixty years First St. Paul's eontinues H.J. Diekhoff 1926-1928: Otto Kloeckner 1928-1930; H.L. Woelber 1930-1947; L.C. Johnson L947-L9542 Dennis Mueller 19541956; Donald Flesner 1956-1961; Walter Rath 1961-1969; Roy Jorgensen 1969-1972; Keith Hedstrom L972-1977; Wayne Mesecher 1977- by Leona (Fanselau) TYiedman First St. Paul's Lutheran Church was affiliated with the United Lutheran Church of America. It was incorporated in 1926, and the Rev. H.J. Diekhoff was called to serve as a resident pastor. In the same year plans were laid to build a new church but financial conditions did not warrant completion, thus, only a basement structure with a flat roof was completed. In 1930 Pastor H.L. Woelber and family and Esther West in 1944-1949, these women with their own hands helped to dig the basement to move the church to its present location on the corner of Lowell Avenue and 15th Street. In 1984, Rev. Richard Messer and his family accepted the call to minister and have faithfully served our church ever since. Under his pastorate the church is now operating in the black and has a strong and faithful congregation. The Fellowship Hall was remodeled in 1986 and we currently have plans to remodel the sanctuary. Current members are: Rev. Richard and Elaine Messer; Rev. J.V. and Bessie Walden, Ida Ernest, Dixie Hasart, Ron and Cindy Richardson, Faith Hase, Gene and Betty Kirby and Annabel Taylor. 1986; Mary Wahto 1986. in charge. This organization then became On April 7, 1929 the church, under the held May 9, 1948. In 1968 a new brick parsonage was built motto remains, "May we help you?" Pastoral Ministry: C. Goede 1925-1926; organized on June 8, 1925 under the leadership of Rev. G.K. Wienke and Rev. C. Coede in Burlington. the building and furniture. Dedication was to provide the Burlington community with the Living Word of God and is a strong influence in the lives of many people. The Firet St. Paul's Lutheran Church. assembly year of June 1927. Plans were made immediately after organization and pledges taken to erect a church building, a lot being pastorate of Rev. Oren Maple, was dedicated to God and in Oct. 1929 the last note on the property was paid and the church set free of Arkansas. It took 972 months to complete by Juanita Davie Charter members were: Mr. and Mrs. Carl Patton, Mrs. Priscilla Linn, Marion Koutz, Fred Patton, Mrs. Olive Arnett, Mrs. Alice Ackerman, Mrs. Clara Fender, Mrs. Elizabeth Clifford, Iris Clifford, Miss Patton and Mrs. Joe Joos. Rev. Earl Manly was called as pastor and a spirit of cooperation and unity emongst a group ofpeople that is seldom paralleled. The trucked by farm trucks from the oak forest Ashton. The Church of the Nazarene. CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE T2S4 On Sept. L2, L926 the Burlington Church of the Nazarene was organized with 12 charter members, fruits of a revival held by Rev. C.W. and Florence Davis, District Superintendent and Evangelist for the Colorado District. Church pastors: Rev. Earl Manly, Rev. J.E. Zimmerman, Rev. Arthy Gossett, Sister Elizabeth Clifford, Rev. Oren Maple, Rev. J.E. Zimmerman, Rev. Edwin W. Reed, Rev. Harold Ripper, Rev. J.E. Shamblin, Supply pastor F.W. Holstein of Stratton, Rev. Harold McKelleps, Rev. A.C. Mize, Rev. Henry Goode, Rev. R.C. Bentley, Flossie Plummer and Esther West, Rev. Raymond Cotton, Rev. E. George Greiner, Gene Hudgens, Donald Hicks, Donald Guy, Henry Schott, Rev. Floyd Totten, Rev. Garfield Dixon, Supply pastor Orvel Gibson, Rev. Henry Schott, Supply pastor Rev. Townsend, Rev. Kenneth Jagger, Rev. Robert Bauer, Rev. Cleo Elsberry, Rev. Gerald Bell, Rev. Ray- �mond Burton, Rev. James P. Bailey, and Rev. Richard L. Messer. by Dixie Hasart SAINT CATIIERINE OF SIENNA T296 TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH T295 Trinity Lutheran Church was organized on February 11, 1923. Seven families were St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church and rectory at 18th and Martin, Burlington. represented at this meeting. Prior to this time, Rev. F.W. Bierwagen of Flagler, Stratton and other points had conducted services in the homes of some of the members: W.J. Sellman, near Kanorado, Kansas; H.D. Klinker, J. Lueken, and Victor Olsen all of occasionally even baled hay for pews. Sometimes the services were held in the armory. Some of the early day families in the congregation were: the Vogts, Shannons, Westgarths, Dorings, Binards, Kellys, Dan- Burlington. Later, services were held at the Odd Fellows Hall, the basement of the Bank of Burlington, the basement of First St. Paul's The first Catholic services held in Burlington were in about 1910. Around that time, a small group of Catholic families succeeded iels, Eschs, Koenigs and Gergens. In 916, the small congregation, working with Father Keiffer, who was then pastor of St. Charles in Stratton, erected the main part of the frame and stucco church on the corner of 18th and Martin. Frank Hoffman applied stucco in 1939. Additions were added at a later date. The property was donated by A.W. Winegar. From then on Mass was usually celebrated once a week in Burlington, unless the pastor from Stratton was unable to get here because of the weather or bad roads. Priests from Stratton who ministered to the Burlington mission were: Fr. Kieffer, Fr. Schmidt, Fr. Munich, Fr. Ernest, Fr. Spehar, and Father Dinan. The parish continued to grow through the determined efforts of the Altar and Rosary Society whose members held various money making projects to furnish and maintain the church. A proud day was the purchase of the first electric organ. In 1950, on the promise from the archbish- Springs to hold services in Burlington about once a month. The services were held in homes. with chairs, wooden benches, and enough money to build the rectory. Fr. Dinan supervised the construction. Fr. Joseph Lane was the first resident Pastor in Burlington. Lutheran Church (A.L.C.) the Christian Church and the Nazarene Church of Bur- lington. An effort to obtain its own house of worship was initiated by the Rev. Beins and the members of 1930, but not until 1941 was a building fund established and the "God's Acre" plan was adopted to build up the fund. There was a resolution to build in September of 1943. However, a church from Southwest of Burlington was bought and moved into Burlington at l2th and Donelan and on November 26,L944 Trinity Lutheran Church was dedicated to the Glory of God. In 1948 The congregation was privileged to celebrate its 25th anniversary in that church. The Rev. F.W. Bierwagen served Trinity in the years 1920-192L. Rev. H.L. Buesing also served as student pastor during this period. Other pastors serving the congregation were Rev. Edmund Weber, Rev. C. Adam, then in 1925 Trinity installed its first pastor, the Rev. W. Wilk. Those who followed are Rev. H.R. Beeins, Rev. E.C. Schmidt, Rev. C.E. Kleber, Rev. Walter Malinsky, Rev. Walter J. Bartling, Rev. Dale Schultz, Rev. Ronald Leach, Rev. Alfred Schubkegel, Rev. Carl Cunningham, Rev. John Chovan, Rev. Douglas Lenser, Rev. Robert Graul, and Rev. David Ahlman. In 1963 The Stewardship Committee began working on plans for a new church since the congregation was out-growing the one they had. The property at 7th and Senter was Father Joseph Lane, first pastor at St. Catherine's in Burlington. Burlington, Co. in arranging for a priest from Colorado op of a resident pastor, the parish raised '.t purchased and ground breaking services were held on May 17, 1964. The cornerstone was laid on August 2, L964 and a local contractor was hired to do the building. On November 29, L964 Trinity's new house of worship was dedicated. On April 5, 1970 a special mortgage burning service was held. In September 1971 the old parsonage at 10th and Lowell was sold and a new parson- t:,:;:::;.1; :'::4,,i::t;) age was built at 365 gth St. It was finished in Mid-August of L972. St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Stratton, Colorado, was the mother church of Trinity and when they disbanded, the bell from the tower of that church was given to Trinity. A stand for it was built on the lawn of Trinity ir.:.li'l:l',] 'ii:u:arrrli and it was dedicated on Sunday, September . 19.1982. by Bill Deines The new church building completed in 19?6. �He became well known and loved in the community and was also a source of some awe, as he owned and flew his own airplane. Following Fr. Lane were Fr. Slattery, Fr. Gallagar, Fr. Mclnerney, Fr. Brunning, Fr. Sobiesczyk, Fr. Wm. Murphy, Fr. Edward Leonard, and now Fr. John Krenzke, in 1988. In recent years, when "standing room only" conditions sometimes resulted in spite of two services each weekend, it became apparent that some kind of building project would have to be undertaken. With Fr. Mclnerney's encouragement, the parish council, in 1969, established a parish building fund and held the first building drive. Regular monthly collections were taken for the building fund and many other fund raising activities were held by the parish, including the annual Mardi Gras and the lunch booth at the county fair. As the building fund grew, so did the needs of the congregation. After assessing the future needs of the parish, the parish council in 1974 received archdiocesan approval to purchase a larger property, and began plans for a combined church and pastor's apartment. A three fourths block of property was purchased from Pat Andrews on the east side of Burlington, and Henry DeNicola, an architect from Denver, was retained to design the structure. After final approval of the plans by the council and the Archdiocesan Building Commission, a contract was signed with Don Herman of Burlington to begin construction. Ground breaking ceremonies were held Sunday, August 31, 1975. The first Mass in the new church was July 3, 1976, and Archbishop Casey dedicated the church that year. Instrumental in bringing the congregation to this proud moment were the members of the parish council and the pastor Rev. W. Murphy. The parish council members during the two years the church was being built, who donated a tremendous amount of time and effort to this cause were: Phil Loos, Pres. of the council, and also Grand Knight of Burlington Knights of Columbus Council, Pete Strick, vice-pres. of the parish council; Darlene Dvorak, recording sec.; Mary Korbelik, financial sec.; Duane Ridder, financial chairman; Ernest Tomes, parish council organization coordinator; Joan Tomes, pres. of Altar and Rosary Society; Kathy Foos, religious education chairman; and Carl Dvorak, chairman of the parish stewardship progmm and building fund chairman. The mortgage was retired in December 1986. Future plans are to add a wing to be used for religious education and social activities. by Mrs. Carl Dvorak WILLIAM HOGATE POST 6497 T297 members. Lawrence J. Pugh served as the first Commander. Military Order of the Cootie Flatlander Pup Tent 19, Organized March 11, 1950, with 25 Charter members. Lawrence J. Pugh served as the first Seam Squirrel. Ladies Auxiliary Veterans of Foreign Wars William Hogate Post 6491. Organized December 29,1947 with47 Charter members. Fern Reynolds served as the first President. Post home located at 48678 Snead Drive. Meeting nights for V.F.W. and Auxiliary members the first and third monday of each month. Cootie meeting nights the third Wednesday. by Gene Kirby The 80th Annual Convention of the Colorado Federation of Women's Clubs was held in Burlington,May 5-7,1975. Our project in 1976, was to donate the money to restore the Carousel, which was Kit Carson's Bicentennial project. We donate yearly to the Colorado Boys Ranch, Care, Penny Art, Minnie L. Hardin, M.S. Society, Burlington Public Library, and make tray favors for the local hospital for the month of December. The Burlington Women's Club and Inter Sese Club will host the Pikes Peak District Convention, Sat., April 16, 1988, in Bur- INTER SESE CLUB by Ina Gay T298 1914-1988 The InterSese Club was organized in 1914 and joined the State and General Federation in 1917. The members worked in and with the Red Cross during the war years of 1917-1g19. GREEN VALLEY EXTENSION CLUB T299 We sponsored the first Christmas tree in Burlington in 1919 and sacked a few treats. This has grown through the years and the club now sacks 1200 sacks of candy for this annual community project. Fruit baskets are also delivered to the shut-ins. In 1921, we sponsored the Burlington Library and $25.00 is donated yearly for the purchase of new books and a Memorial Book is placed on the Memorial shelf for deceased members. The club helped to beautify the City Park by planting and caring for the trees and also helped to beautify the court house Iawn. The annual Mother's Tea was started in 1923, with just the members mothers. Now over 250 invitations are hand delivered to all the ladies 65 and older within the city limits. Favors and refreshments are made by club members and the event is held the last meeting in April. 40th anniversary in May, 1986. L. to R.: Nola Mangus, Bernice Eberhart, Naomi Gilbert Walters, Bertha Hines and Alma Davis. In May 1930, the Inter Sese Club hosted the seventh annual Pikes Peak Dist. convention. Some of the events we have sponsored are: an Art Show during National Art Week in 1935; Placed an electric fountain in the City Park in 1937; started a Cemetery Improvement Association in 1941; Sponsored a Girl Scout Group and gave books to the Limon City Library; gave 9808.37 to the Kit Carson Memorial Hospital and articles of 6 &* clothing were sent to the Greek Orphan Relief in 1947. Several Memorial trees were planted on the Hospital grounds and money donated to a Nurses Scholarship Fund. We entered the contest "Build a Better Community" by sponsoring the Annual Easter Seal Sale and helped several crippled children receive Medical attention in 1948-49. During the World War II years, Inter Sese sent clothing packages to several families in Germany. In 1960-62, during the "Lets Share Happi- ness" we sent boxes of clothing to the Pueblo Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United State Hospital. A Pioneer Doll Contest was sponsored in 1964. The 50th Anniversary of The Burlington Charter was organized on March 6, 1946, William Hogate Post 6491. The post was orsanized with 61 Charter used as a Museum. lington. Veterans of Foreign T[ars States Two Heirloom Fairs were sponsored, and from this came the idea of a Museum in Burlington. While plans were being drawn up, the Penny family home was given to be Inter Sese was celebrated in 1964. We raised funds to purchase an ice maker for the Kit Carson Memorial Hospital in 1968, amountins to around Sl ^O00- 1987 members, L. to R.; Back row, Kathy Dowd, Jo Nell Monroe, Bernice Eberhart, Jeanne Gantz. Front, L. to R.; Lyla Davis Enyart, Naomi Gilbert Walters, Alma Davis, Mildred Hines and Minnie Schmidt. 1946-1986 The Green Valley Extension Club was organized Jan. 8, 1946 at the Green Valley School with Naomi Gilbert as President. Nell Schmidt, Vice Pres. Nola Mangus, Sec. Treas. Other members included Rose Korbel- ik, Persis Mangus, Bernice and Lena Eb- erhart, Gladys Demaree, Alma Davis, Esther Mtrlnh Fla*ho lfi-ao l\t"-+l- pi-^^. Itl^- �Our county made special "Tote Bage" for the National Extension Homemakers Meeting held in Estes Park in June of 1986. A carousel lion was the logo for the tote bag, and they were rated Outstanding. Lyle Enyart and Bernice Eberhart attended that National Meeting. For our 30 Anniv. we invited former members. On the 35th, we all went out to dinner at the Ramada Inn. In 1986, on our 40 Anniv. we invited some 40 former memberg to a very special party at the Prairie Pines Country Club. We did sort Back row, L. to r.; Nyla Loutzenhiser, Florence Mills, Katherine Diekman and Diana Miller. Front row. Eileene Morrell and Avis Schritter ence Duffey, Martha Kaestener, Julia Broad- sword, Ona Gillespie, and Leatha Sprinkle' Joining the next year were Lyla Davis, Viola Brown, Marjorie Jacobs, and Thelma Snelling. Bertha B. Wear was the County Exten- sion Agent and she was instrumental in getting the club organized. The club was active in all of the educational aspects of home economics, taking advantage of as many lessons as possible in the area of homes and families, making that the highest thought of every homemaker. Green Valley was also active in the County organization, of a replay of the activities during the forty years. Then we honored the 11 deceased members with a memorial service. The entertainment was re-doing some of the fun times, like the Negro Minstrel, The Mock Wedding, etc. The record of the 10th Anniv. was played and was enjoyed by all. Naomi Gilbert Walters was the only charter member and she was presented a corsage. Kathy Dowd was the Colorado Young Homemaker, served on the State Board, helped at the State Meeting in Sterling, June 16-19. Naomi Walters was the District I North Star Award winner. Lyla Enyart, Kathy Dowd and Bernice Eberhart attended that State Meet- and A Silly Style Show. Money was donated to many worthwhile causes. and we went all-out for the Cancer Fund. All but one of the members who have died. died of cancer. Donations were also ladies lounge, East Central Disability Center, Carson County History Book. Signed, The Green Valley Gals Every year they entertained another club or invited guests to a Special Tea in honor of National Homemakers Week. Among those festivities were a Mock Wedding, a Negro Minstrel, A Hobo Party, A Hawaiian Luau, A School Days Party, An International Tea, A Linkletter House Party, A Carnival, A May Pole Brunch, An Old Fashioned Tea, Making and Wearing Silly Hats, A Trip to Ireland, made to 4H, Girl Scouts, BoYs Ranch, Hospital incubator, baby things, Flight For Life, Grace Manor Rest Home, lap robes, Ft. Lyons, The Carousel, and for a nursing scholarship. There were baby showers, wedding showers, funeral dinners and House warmings. We assisted Bertha Wear on a trip to Hawaii in 1965. Each year we prepared a fair booth and received some Grand Qfiampions, Reserve Champions, and lots and lots of Blue ribbons. We made a float for homecoming and also an entry in the Mike Lounge Parade. A state bird quilt was made in 1951 and raffled off at the County Fair. On our 10th Anniversary, As it was just after World War II, we adopted a family in Holland that needed help due to the war. The Marshal Plan made it easy for us to pack a barrel with coffee, sugar, and cocoa, along with clothes and ship it overseas for less than $5.00. It was a very enjoyable project for many years. We later sent just money so they could buy the things that they needed. Mr. Rhoada, a fellow from Ireland, very kindly translated the letters for us. The Club had numerous projects such as the School Lunch Progrom, fair booth, 4-H Club, taking part in all County Council meetings, serving food at sales, Red Cross lessons, school eye exams, entertaining at other clubs, carnivals, and helping the men with the Gun Club, etc. Due to so many of the people moving to town or out of the community, plus several of the ladies that were left starting working outside the home, it was necessary to close out the club in about 1980. It will always be remembered as a bright spot in the neighbor- hood for nearly forty years. by Velma T[alstrom ing. Through the 40 years we have had some 46 members enrolled. We still have four of the ones who joined that first year - Naomi Walters, Lyla Enyart, Alma Davis and Bernice Eberhart. Other members on the roll in 1986 include, Minnie Schmidt, Mildred Hines, Eileene Morrell, Avis Schritter, JoNell Monroe, Kathy Dowd, Esther Wilcox, Irene Kennedy, Florence Mills, Katherine Diekman, Jeannie Gantz, Ina Gay, Nyla Loutzenhiser, Diana Miller and Oea Ann Payne. In those early years, this club was about the only social function for most of the homemakers, and it still remains one of the special get-to-gether times for most of us. We are members holding many of the county offices. the community. proud to be one of the entries in the Kit by Bernice Eberhart THE FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE HOME DEMONSTRATION CLUB BURLINGTON WOMEN'S CLUB T30r This club was organized as the Burlington Junior Club under the sponsorship of Inter Sese Club on January 28, 1938, and was federated the same year. There were nine charter members, none of whom are still in the club. However several of the early members are now finishing 42 to 46 years of membership. In 1941, the club grew up and became Burlington Woman's Club. In the same year we began to organize a junior club of our own became Quo Vadis Club. As we look back through the years, we see them filled with accomplishments, gleaming with warm ties of friendship and enhanced by personalities that have striven to make a great organization, always working for the betterment of the community, the nation, and the world. In the forty-eight years of the the KXXX Radio Station in Colby came out T300 club's existence many women have come and gone from our membership, blessing us for a time with their talents, their helpfulness, their inspiration, and their love. Many are the projects undertaken by the club in a wonderful spirit of fellowship. During World War II, with a definite goal and something vitally important to work for, our Mangus was presented the "Good Neighbor Award." We have it on a record and we play it at other Anniv. parties. We served lunch at farm sales, and had family picnics. We have an annual Birthday On February 4, L947, the ladies of the Smoky Hill Community met at the home of Bessie Ogle with the County Home Demon- Federation project of buying a bomber. We collected hundreds of pounds of silk and goodies for widowers of former members, and Matthews, Vice-President; and Velma Walstrom, Secretary. and did a "Hello Neighbor Party." Persis party, a christmas gift exchange, made helped deliver hot meals to shut-in senior citizens. Selling Texas Manor Fruit Cakes is a money making project since 1976. We collect Pennies for Friendship every meeting. A One-Act Play was presented by the club in 1952. It won first place in the county and then went to State where it won first place directors award. It was directed by Bernice Eberhart. stration Agent, Mrs. Bertha B. Wear, as the presiding officer until officers were elected. Elected was Bessie Ogle, President; Jane The charter members were Lettie Butterfield, Flo Chapin, Irma Collins, Alice Daniels, Flora Drager, Leona Guffy, Amanda Jansen, Jane Matthews, Wanda McClelland, Hazel Morton, Wilma Norton, Bessie Ogle, Ethel Pearce, Inez Richardson, Ruby Scott, Grace Sissell, and Velma Walstrom. Each year we added more members, and some moved from activities increased. We bought $15'700 worth of defense bonds to help the General nylon hose to be reused for parachutes, helped the Girl Scouts collect grease, and pounded out 11,000 pounds of tin cans so the tin could be salvaged. Members gave blood, donated to the War Chest, and also filled and shipped many kit bags for the soldier. A war bond auction was sponsored at which the auction of donated merchandise resulted in the sale of $65,750 worth of war bonds. We helped in the collection of used clothing to ship to war torn countries and helped in the Red Cross drives. Two destitute English families were adopted by the club. Packages �of clothing and food were sent to them for several years for which we received many letters of appreciation and thanks. For several of the early years the club sponsored the Christmas Seal carnpaign, but since 1950 our special project has been sponsoring the annual Heart Fund drive. The first year we collected $246 while the 1985 total was $2,732. Burlington Woman's Club has always supported the town library with our time and donation of books and money. Several members served on the library board, and volun- teers conducted a summer children's story hour. When Kit Carson County Hospital was built, the club raised $500 for furnishing a room, then more to tile the room and buy drapes. In later years we sponsored the Pink Ladies and held a raffle to raise money for landscaping the front hospital yard. Our special project for 1985 was carpeting the entry, reception room, and offices. Over the years the club has also donated to many other worthwhile causes such as polio, cancer, Red Cross, Easter Seals, Save the Children, and others. Contributions of gifts and money have been made to Colorado Boy's Ranch, and we have helped send a girl to Girls State for manyyears. The needy in Burlington have never been forgotten at Christmas time nor any time the need was known. The means to support these numerous projects has not come easily. With each member contributing her time, energy, and ingenuity, we have used many money making schemes from traveling teas to food sales, They were the post having the "largest and the smallest" persons in World War I. They were Rube Pratt and Jack Magee. In 1987 they were forced to turn in their charter because of the death of most of their membership. All members have good memories of the good times they had in the past. by Henry Hoskin, Final Adjutant. RETIRED SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM T303 When Betty Goss was co-ordinator in 1973, the Burlington - Bethune R.S.V.P. was started. Very few records were kept then, however the following was found. Betty Hostetler was hired as director in July, 1973 and Betty Goss was co-ordinator. In Aug. 1973 Betty Goss was made the director and Nelda Hendricks the co-ordinator, Marlyn Bates somehow worked with Nelda. In 1974, Betty quit and Billi Haynes was hired as director. The Advisory Council by-laws were written at that time and better records were kept. Dorotha Hammond was hired as co-ordinator. In 1975, Billi Haynes quit and in June 1975, Ruth Kraxberger (now Loutzenhiser) was hired as director. Dorotha Hem6sn6 was co-ordinator till 1985, in May 1985, Linda Rower was hired as co-ordinator, she served till May 1987, then Sharon Zeigler was hired and she quit in Oct. 30, 1987 and Nov. 4, 1987, Betty Stoltz was hired and is the present co-ordinator. The first council members were Fred Kiefer, Ida Stone, Theresia Kramer, and Aldene Beringer. Some members changed, some quit, others passed away and at present members are: Carol Kosch, Josephine Strick, from rummage sales to auctions and raffles. The club has joined wholeheartedly in various community activities - participating in skit nights and talent shows and construction floats for parades, the last of which was for Mike Lounge Day in 1985. Over the years we have also enjoyed many cultural, educational and entertaining programs given by club members and guest speakers. This is the story of a cultural influence in a modern community. We believe that in concerted action lies strength for any cause we choose. We are grateful for the privilege always on the board. Club. In 19?3, Betty Goss trying in the Bethune area to get started met in the Imanuel of serving through Burlington Woman's by Sally Bauder and Dorothy Reinecker ARTHUR H. EVANS POST #60 T302 The American Legion Arthur H. Evans Post #60 of the American Legion was organized in 1917 in Burlington, Colorado. Every year since then they decorated the graves in the Burlington, Settlement, and Happy Hollow Cemeteries. They were forced to abandon the project about 1980 due to the lack of membership. For years they were instrumental in American Legion Baseball and all kinds of community activities. For years they were responsible for the Junior-Senior Prom in Burlington, Colorado. Lenora Young, May Vedsted, and Theresia Kramer, and the county commissioners are Lutheran Church basement, however no interest was shown. she then combined Burlington and Bethune and started to meet at the Blue Flame room, when that closed we met at Trinity Lutheran Church a few times then changed to the Christian Church. The S.O.S. Center opened in 1975 and after a year the R.S.V.P. started to meet in the S.O.S. Center once a month till 1983 when we started to meet twice a month so more work could be done. At the Blue Flame room small craft articles were made, Cyril Hoag started glass bottle crafts, with no success. A trip was made to the Wheatridge Home of Retarded Children in Wheatridge, Co., someone had donated quilt patches to the home, we were asked, would we sew crib blankets with the patches for them. That started our sewing projects, the men made wooden pull toys. No record was kept as to how many blankets were made, but two trips were made to take blankets, toys, and used clothing to the home. After those patches were used up, two orders of factory patches were ordered, then people heard that we were in need of patches and have been donating all the patches we need. After sewing crib blankets for several years we began making lap robes for the hospital, West Nursing Home, and Grace Manor. We also sewed bibs for Grace Manor. When those needs were filled, we began to sew quilts for the Boys Ranch at LaJunta. We made two trips taking 12 quilts each time, we also took homemade cookies on the last trip. When Linda was co-ordinator, we started to sew quilts for each client at the Dynamic Dimension Center, 17 in all. The last quilts were taken Sept. 22, 1987. Then we sewed 17 chair pads for them, before Sharon Zeigler quit. Besides that work we made other crafts for bazaars, sewed two quilts and hand quilted them to sell, also tied some quilts to sell and had bake sales and bazaars, to help buy materials we needed to finish quilts etc. The men helped build cupboards for the S.O.S. Center and helped with crafts. They started woodworking by making sewing kits; chickens; then roosters; lawn decorations; aggravation game boards (sold these for other materials needed); they also made a table and do whatever is needed even repair work of any kind. We had people working in school, some chauffeured people where needed, when there was no need for the bus, helped at Grace Manor to feed people and helped when they went on their trips. We helped with community programs; went with the S.O.S. Band, to sing; went to Senior Day at the Capitol; to the State Fair; the Circus in Denver; Ice Capades; and had picnics at Bonny Dam, at the park, and had hamburger fries. We served the wedding reception for Ted and Hazel Back- lund. We met at the Center and went to speakouts, the first speakout was at Burlington, an we went to Recognition Days once a year at Kit Carson and Lincoln county. The first Recognition Day was held at Flagler park in 1974, with a hamburger fry. The next year we had a picnic lunch in Flagler park. In 1976, it was held in the school gym, then in 1977, each county held their separate recognition day; with Kit Carson's being at the Seibert School. Burlington-Bethune made the corsages and table decorations. From 1978 on, it was held in Flagler school, a couple of times it was in the gym with snacks after the program. Then they started to serve lunch paid by R.S.V.P. and then have the program. It was well attended. Burlington-Bethune, with the help of the county commissioners, were able to get a bus, Aug. 6, 1987. The last few years we out grew the center, so started to look for a larger building, when a good hearted citizenhanded us a check to buy a nice big building, then we started to raise money for it. We were able to move in the basement of our building by Aug. 25, L987, with the R.S.V.P. doing the work, etc., we are now working towards getting the upstairs furnished with a kitchen for the meals. Beginning Jan. 1988, meals were served here. The building, now called the McArthur Senior Center, is located in the northwest part of Burlington, away from traffic, where there is plenty of parking space and also space for recreation. The Senior Citizens are happy to have their building and are thankful to everyone who helped in obtaining it. by Theresia Kramer �COMET REBEKAH LODGE Dortha H. Hammond, Ella Farwell, Eileen Stewart, Ines McArthur, Naomi Gilbert, BURLINGTON GARDEN CLUB Louise Holmes, Vivian Kiefer, Emma Mullis, Grace McNeill, Ruth Bauder, Alma Davis, T304 Beluah Schahrer, Gladys Clouse, Helen Kreoger, Ethel Stewart, Lucy Russman, Many will remember a certain date on May Gladys Farnsworth, Doris Hawthorne, Anna T305 On a February day in 1928, Bessie Wilson 18, 1910, as the day which Halley's Comet was Parnell, Avis Bader Schritter and Vivian invited Nannie Hoskin and,Lizzie Wilkinson expected to fall upon and destroy the earth. Keifer. A Poem written by a charter member, Mabel Boger follows: On the eighteenth of May, nineteen ten, A group of women, and also men Desiring to form a Rebekah Lodge For the good of mankind, and the Star to to help draw up plans for a garden club. They asked Helen Calvin, Pearl Schell, Selma Laymon, Martha Hudler, Pearl Vallin, Jean dodge. fined 100. The first year a major effort was made to encourage residents to beautify their yards and gardens with prizes given at the last of the season for the best looking gardens in It was at this time Sister Sallie St. Clair. President of the Rebekah Assembly of Colorado, Sister Ernestine V.G. Boggs, state secretary and Sister Minnie Cook, a former resident of this county, journeyed to Burlington to institute the local lodge. Charter members of the lodge were: Gertrude McCloid, Anna Stephenson, Anna F. Dunn, Etta M. Stetler, Mabel Boger and Grant Stephenson. It was Sisters St. Clair and Boggs who ruggested the name "Comet" referring to the calamity which was to befall all, and the Lodge's designated No. 1.23. Thus Comet Rebekah Lodge No. 123 was instituted with Anna Stephenson as its First Noble Grand and Anna Nightengale as Vice Grand. Other officers installed were: Gertrude McCloid, P.N.G.; Mabel Boger, Secretary; Ella Stetler, Treasurer; Mary E. Wilkenson, warden; Inez M. Chase, conductor; T.P. Hoskin, chaplin; J.G. Upton RSNG; Mary Williams, LSNG; Grant Stephenson, RSVP; Myrtle Danforth, LSVG; M. Bernice Chase, inside guardian; rnd Lewis B. Cline, outside guardian. Other members were: Ethel Burr, Gertrude Upton, Mary Haynes, Parmelia Brinkley, Grant Stetler, Amos Williams, Louis Chase, Melvin Winslow, Elida Christenson, Sara M. Winslow, Clytie Hoskin, Martha Potter, Wyatt Boger, John Pilling, Edward Hoskin, Sr. and Mary Winslow. The Comet Rebekahs withstood the Halley Comet calamity and is still withstanding lome 65 years later. The lodges comprising District No. 13 of the IOOF and Rebekah Lodges are as follows: Rebekah Lodges, Burlington, 123, Cheyenne Wells, No. 44, When Halley's own star was at its summit For want of a name, decided on "Comet". The number assigned it was one hundred twenty-three In spite of the Hoo-Doo, happy are we! Institution was had, the deed was done, In fair Colorado at Burlington. Local members who have been awarded 50year jewels for their continuous membership in Comet Rebekah Lodge of Burlington are: First to receive the distinction of achieving the 50-year goal was a charter member, Mabel Boger, who was honored and awarded the pin in May of 1960. Mabel served as the lodge's first secretary in 1910, and was Noble Grand for two terms in 1912 and 1915, as well as serving in other offices. She passed away August 10, 1966. Anna L. Buel was awarded the second 50year jewel in May 1972. Sister Anna served as Noble Grand for two terms in L927 and. 1932, as well as other offices including that of treasurer for 25 years. She also achieved other honors including one of the highest awards given by the IOOF and Rebekah orders, receiving the decoration ofchivalry by the Patriarchs Militant and LEAPM on Jun e 6, 1969 at the IOOF Temple in Fort Collins. Mrs. Buol passed away October 8, 1974. Sister Ethel Sawyer was also sent a 50-year jewel in 1972. She was residing in Bird City, Flagler, No. 1300, Limon, No. 35, and Seibert No. 128. Odd Fellows Lodges: Burlington No. [52, Cheyenne Wells No. 153, Flagler No. 135, Limon No. 179, and Seibert No. 37. The foundations upon which the order Kan., at the time. She has since passed away. Pearl Sturdevant received the fourth 50year jewel, which was sent to her in 1973 at her home in Pasco, Wash. Sister joined the Iocal lodge on July 16, 1923 when Maye rests, namely Friendship, Love and Truth, is Morgan was Noble Grand. She served in rs solid now as in the early days of its :onstruction; its principles, belief in a Sucreme Being, loyalty to your country under nhose flag we live, and fraternal of your fellow man, will always be living principles. Past Noble Grands of Rebekah Lodge No. [23 are: Anna Stephenson, Mabel Boger, Etta Stetler, Parmelia Brinkley, Thomasine Hoskin, Mary Haynes, Mabel Boger, Rhoda Yersin Schofield, Stella Nesmith Penny, Mary Wilkenson, Myrtle Danforth, Lillie N. Pilling, Anna L. Bergen, Gertrude Upton, Mary E. Baker, Etta Stetler, Bernice Chase, Iessie Gray, Rhoda Yersin Schofield, Maye 0. Morgan, Mary Chase Gassner, Phem KuKuk, Davie Powell, Pearl Sturdevant, {,nna Boul, Flora Klooze, Veta Jose, Maude Jmith, Clytie Hoskin, Anna Bergen, Anna Boul, Vera Magee Reeves, Dorthy Bergen )lson, Dorthea Goldsworthy, Clara Bauder Loyd, Bessie Goodhue, Alice Travis Shanron, Lela Plummer, Myrtle Aumiller, Alvina llafer, Opal Towers, Mamie Park, Clara Flak, Pearl Kockenteger Dawson, Ruth Ferseuth, Pearl Van Dorn Stepens, Mary Evans, Helen Ragan, Vera Walters, Florence Wigton, many offices and was Noble Grand in 1926. She moved to Boulder in the late 1930's and later to Washington. The most recent recipient of the 5O-year jewel was Sister Phern KuKuk of Loveland. It was presented to her on June 28,1974, at a meeting of Grace Rebekahs in Loveland, which she has attended since leaving Burlington in 1946. She joined Burlington Lodge in January of t924, serving as Noble Grand in 1925, as well as other offices. The jewel was pinned on her by another Comet Rebekah member who also resides in Loveland now and attends that lodge. by Vivian Kiefer Lomis and Beulah Hamilton to join their group and the Burlington Garden Club was formed. The dues were 500 a year and if any member was absent from a meeting she was town. The club gave flower seeds to the Camp Fire Girls and the Girl Scouts to enhance the competition. To further their efforts in 1931 the club held its first plant exchange which is still an annual project. In 1934 the club urged the Burlington City Council to adopt the gold zinnia as the city flower and after this was done, gold zinnias were planted widely in Burlington. In 1935 The Burlington Garden Club held its first flower show and the State Garden Club president, Mrs. Fish, served as the judge. Also that year the club spent 95.00 on vases to be used for taking flowers to the hospital and to those confined at home. Bessie Wilson and Della Hendricks were always interested in the world around them, so they urged the club to undertake a study of wild flowers. They spent many hours on field trips while Mr. Woodfin took about 70 pictures for them. In 1938 the Burlington Garden CIub sponsored the "Pioneer Parade and Flower Show" during the county fair which was then held in September. In 1951 the county commissioners asked the club to take charge of the floraculture booth on a permanent basis. In the early days of the club the emphasis had been on the appearance of the town and most of the programs had been about flowers and their culture. This changed during World War II when Victory Gardens were encouraged and the slogan was "Food for Victory, Flowers for Morale". From the beginning the club has had an abiding interest in birds. Once it sponsored a contest for the best bird house made by any boy or girl under 16 years of age. Another time it sought to protect birds by hanging bells on pet cats. There is a note that 17 bells were given out. There were also a few bird baths in town but interest in them increased when Mrs. Mead of Denver, wrote that she had a birth bath mold that she would loan to the club if it would pay the transportation costs. To cover these charges each member was assessed 150 and the club was able to send for the mold. A large number of bird baths were made and one of them is presently on the hospital grounds. In 1944 the Burlington Garden Club sponsored the Peconic Garden Club which had ten charter members. Later on a spot prepared by the county, The Burlington Garden Club erected a large fireplace as a memorial to those who served in the armed forces. There is a large bronze plaque on it designating it as the Blue Star Memorial. On �the site, the Burlington and Peconic clubs placed picnic tables and benches for the use of the public. Another project undertaken by the Burlington club is where Highway 24 comes into Burlington from the east at what we call the "Y". The State Highway Department in cooperation with the Parks and Recreation Board designed a Wayside Park and recommended plantings for it. The club planted many trees, shrubs and flowers, particularly iris. Probably the largest project for which the club assumed responsibility was landscaping the grounds after the Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital was built. The landscape plan, as drawn up by the women of the club received an award from the State Garden Club Federation in 1955 and won the National Award of Garden Clubs, June 6, 1956. This was one of two awards presented to any club west of the Mississippi River. It took five years to complete the job and in this time the club planted 46 evergreen trees, 10 deciduous trees, 117 shrubs, 14 vines and 250 English privit. Six benches were placed around the grounds. When the new Fair Grounds grandstand was built the county commissioners asked the club to suggest a color scheme and so it recommended the rainbow of colors that were used. Over the years the club has participated in many parades in conjunction with various community celebrations the last of which honored astronaut Mike Lounge in October, 1985. The club entered a float in that parade and won first place in its class. Over the past sixty years the club has been active in many community functions. A total of 202 women have participated in the club which presently has 30 active members. by Marion Janssen QUO VADrS FEDERATED WOMANS CLUB T306 To dispel the dark shadows ofwar, a social group known as the Merry Maids of Bur- lington Club was formed. These young women were invited to become a Federated Junior Club. With a membership of eight, Jubilee Juniors was granted a charter in March 1941, following admittance to the Federation at a board meeting in Denver on January 20, L941. Serving as advisors were Mrs. Iva Penny and later, Mrs. Ruth Milburn. On June 6, 1946, in a beautiful, formal candlelight service at the home of Mrs. J.C. Coleman, Pikes Peak District President, senior membership was conferred on a membership of nineteen. Quo Vadis, which means "whiter goest thou", was selected as the new club name. Charter members were Alice Pischke Boyles, Winifred Esch James, Betty Brown Chalfant, Lois Sandst€dt Bishop, Phyllis Sandstedt Eberhart, Mary Vailin Sample, Roma Ross Stanton, and Maxine Wilson Nixon. Throughout its existence the club has initiated and supported many worthwhile projects for community improvement, social welfare, and international understanding including hospital aid, organization of PTA and Girl Scouts, Christmas Seals, and Red Cross work. The Howdy Hostess Program was started in 1956 and continued for some twenty years. A scholarship was established in 1960 and a "Dollar for Scholars" benefit bridge and pinochle party was given. This became an annual fund raising event for the scholarship fund through 1964. Various other money making ideas were later used. Community Service Projects included preparing March of Dimes envelopes for mailing, filling sacks for Rotary Club for their annual Easter Egg Hunt, skits put on by the members for the Alumni Association, and preparing floats for various occasions such as Homecoming, and the Little Britches Rodeo Parade. In 1949, the club sponsored a room in the new hospital and the maternity ward was chosen. A total of $450 was given to advantages to the community and this club has left a positive influence on the commu- nity of Burlington. by Kathy Lundien AURORA CHAPTER #73, ORDER OF THE EASTERN STAR T307 complete the room. Each year money was given to purchase some article needed for the ward. "Toys for Tots" was start€d in 1963 where a toy was given to any child who was admitted to the hospital. In 1968, members began conducting the door-to-door Arthritis Drive. Each year in which the club participated in this project they were recognized by the Arthritis Foundation for collecting the largest amount of money per club capita in the Tri-state area. During the club year 1958-59, Crystal Schlosser, who was president, took part in the new Library Dedication. The honor being hers because Quo Vadis raised the most money Aurora chapter of Eastern Star. L. to R.: Front. Florence Remington, Pat Wilson, Mary Gassner, Gladys Teselle, Clarence and Vera Magee. Row 2: Laura Jacobs, Nora Broune, Carolyn King, Anna Bergen, Peggy Wilson, Lois Halsted and Iva Penny. Row 3: Dorothy Bergen, Mary Curtiss, Bessie Guthrie and Alberta Swaim. toward furnishing the new library. They raised $94.00 by selling birthday and anniversary calendars. Money making projects were as follows: Annual Armistice Day Dance, which in 1945 netted $600 and $300 was donated to the Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital Fund, the Mother-Daughter Banquet, Children's Mart, Traveling Food Basket, White Elephant Sale, Rummage Sales, Food and Candy Sales. The ladies did not always work, but did have a little fun on the nights when they entertained their husbands. The club had their first Husband's Party in 1953. Each year this continued. The early parties were held on April lst, and in the latter years was held in February. Another fun project was having Pixie Pals from 1950-53. Names were drawn and gifts presented on Birthdays and Anniversaries. Some of the club members to achieve high honors were as follows: Mildred Anderson served as district treasurer and junior vice president, Koy Snowbarger served as district recording secretary, and district president, Pam Levitt served as district recording secretary, Dorene Buol tied for second place in the CFWC Short Story Contest, Marjorie Robinson won first place in the state on her story on Geontology, Kathy Lundien served as district treasurer. Many of the club members served as district and state chairman of the various departments. In 1976 the club received a national award on OPERATION IDBNTIFAX (a crime prevention program). In May of 1982 this organization, regretfully, came to the conclusion that due to the many other activities which the members had there was no longer time for Quo Vadis and the club disbanded. The many activities which the club tried to accomplish were Being desirous of organizing a chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star, a petition was circulated by "master masons and wives and daughters". On a Thursday evening in 190b, a large number of the petitioners met at the masonic lodge room and selected the officers to be recommended for appointment by the Worthy Grand Patron. Those present suggested names for the Chapter and, after much discussion, the name "Aurora" was adopted. That name was suggested by Wm. M. Long, who it seems had been much impressed by the brilliant displays of the Aurora Borealis, which had been visible here that fall. The awe-inspiring spectacle seemed a fitting name for the new Chapter. On December 29, 1905, Worthy Grand Patron W.L. Bush was present for the purpose of instituting Aurora Chapter. The dispensation was read, to be in force until the next meeting of Grand Chapter. A full set of officers was appointed, these chosen in accord with the wishes of the Chapter. Five new members were initiated during the first year. On August 27, 920 was sent to Grand Chapter with a petition for a charter. However, at the meeting of Grand Chapter the continuance of the dispensation of Aurora Chapter was authorized. On September 20, 1907, the Worthy Grand Matron met with the Chapter and delivered the Charter. That was a momentous occasion. The work was exem- plified for the Worthy Grand Matron, a practice which has been continued through the years. Some of our first regalia was described in the early minutes of the Chapter. In 1908 a "carpet" was purchased for $7.50. This carpet was known as a "floor cloth" and was placed on the floor of the labrinth for each meeting. Painted on it were the five stars and their �emblems in appropriate colors. Music has always been of great importance in our work, and the Chapter joined with three other organizations in purchasing an organ. Our share of the cost was $10.50. In 1926 the Chapter paid the Rebekah lodge $30.00 on the piano they purchased. Our own piano was later secured when we started meeting in our present Chapter room. has played an important part in our history and we hereby pay them tribute! by Marie lloskin It is interesting to know when various of SCOUTING IN BURLINGTON our past matrons and patrons with pins in 1924. At the time this was quite an expenditure, because we had to supply pins for all pins in previous matrons and patrons - 16 all. The dates for elections and installations Burlington in April, 1940, with the chartering of Troop 38. The chartering institution was the Burlington Rotary Club who has continually sponsored the program for the past 48 years. The first Scoutmaster was Lloyd Green, pastor of the First Christian Church. our customs were set. In 1929, an "instruction committee" was appointed. This later became the proficiency committee which became required in 1934. We began supplying have been changed several times, having been from November to May to September. Chapter dues have ranged from $2.50 to $12'50' The coin march began in 1921, with the money first being used to buy flowers for the sick. We began publishing year books in 1945. The last tradition to be added was that of giving 25 year pins which we began in 1951. During the early years, there were many trials concerning our meeting hall facilities. The janitor service was poor, regalia had to be moved and carried up flights of stairs to each meeting, and often there was no heat. Then, beginning in 1947, plans were made by the Masons for a new Masonic Temple. Our Chapter pitched in by operating a booth at the county fair for the next 6 years. In 1951 it was reported that the Masons had bought the Christian Church and would remodel it for a Masonic Temple. Then indeed did the Chapter give liberally of the money they had earned, for furniture and to help remodel and furnish the basement. August 25, 1951, the Grand Officers of Colorado came to Burlington and dedicated our Chapter room. It has always been a pleasure to welcome the Grand Officers to our Chapter and to entertain them with a banquet. Looking back we find that at a banquet in 1913 two turkeys cost $2.75 and a pound of coffee cost 300. In 1933 and 34, the banquets cost 500 per plate. By 1948 the cost had risen to $1.50 and today the cost is $8.00. In 1929 an assembly of the Rainbow for Girls was organized. An afternoon party was given for prospective girls and their mothers, to explain the order and encourage the girls. Burlington Assembly #24 was instituted January 25, 1930. Our Worthy Matron Vivian was a Charter member. In April 1978, shortly before official visit' new carpet was installed, new drapes purchased, new pedestals and a new altar cloth were added. Several garage sales and bazaars were held to raise funds for these projects. T308 The scouting program was started in Bill Haughey was his assistant and when Rev. Green Ieft Burlington, Bill became the Scoutmaster. In 1944 Jerry Penny became Burlington's first Eagle Scout. Walter Bauder was then drafted as Scoutmaster and he helped his sons, Don and Warren, earn their Eagle Badges in 1945. In June of 1945 Henry C. Beatty was appointed pastor of the Methodist Church and shortly thereafter assumed the duty of Scoutmaster. Scouting really grew in Burlington during his leadership and 4 of his Scouts earned their Eagle Badges. They were Mike Winningham in 1946, Jim Penny 1948, Bill Flatt 1949, and Dean Wigton in 1950. During the fifties various men served as Scoutmaster, they being Bruce Channell, Dick Thomas, John Bryner, Gene Pinalto, Elbert Akers, and Percy Lounge. In 1954 Burton Beahm became Burlington's 8th Eagle Scout. In the sixties, Scoutmasters were Percy Lounge, Wert Frerichs, Gary Long, Larry Schlasis, Frank Meggers, Kenneth Morrison, J.B. Beecham. and Milton Harrison. In 1964 Roger Beahm received his Eagle and was joined by Terry Buol in 1965. During the seventies, Scoutmasters were Kenneth King, Jim Timmie. Don Cornella, Lonnie Barlow, Jim Richardson, and Glen Davis with 10 Scouts earning their Eagle Badge. They were Randy Hertneky 1970, Harry Hertneky 1971, David Hahn 1973, Kurt Lucas 1975, David Hertneky 1977, Mike McCulloch 1977, the McCullock twins, Mark and Mitch in 1978, J.D. Richardson 1979, and George Hertneky in 1979. The troop had some excellent leadership during this period. In the eighties the Scoutmasters were Glen Davis, Rick Hiltman, Luis Rodriguez, Dwight Holmes, and Kevin Schott who is presently serving as Scoutmaster. During this period 5 Scouts became Eagles, they being Jason Currier 1981, Greg McCullough 1982, Jeff Currier 1982, Jay Tatkenhorst 1986, and Jon we presently use on our Altar was Sister Cromwell in 1987. The Burlington Troop has the distinction of having 2 families with 4 Eagles in each family, they being the Hertnekys and the McCullochs. There are also 4 other families with 2 Eagles, they being the Pennys, Bauders, Beahms, and Curriers. The Burlington Scout Troop has been very viable in our Eileen's when she served as Worthy Grand Matron and was presented to her by our Rainbow Assembly. Obviously it is possible to mention only a few of our members by name in this short resume of 80 years, but anyone who is now or ever has been a member of Aurora Chapter, Annual Easter Egg Hunt, and various clean up and paint up projects. They have manned the grandstand concession stand at Kit Carson County Fair for about 35 years and the Little Britches Rodeo since it started. During the past 80 years we have had several of our eisters serve as Grand Representatives, Grand Pages, District Instructors and various other committees. 3 sisters have served as Grand Officers. Sister Eileen Wiedman served as Worthy Grand Matron of the State of Colorado in 1970-71. The Bible community, helping with distribution of Christmas sacks. the Chamber of Commerce The profits from the concession stand has enabled many Scouts to go yearly to our Pikes Peak Council Camp at Camp Alexander. Other high adventure trips made by the Scouts over the years was a canoe trip into Canada in 1955 led by Willard Gross and Herman Rau. In 1960 another canoe trip led by Maddie Stubbs and Dr. Ray Beethe, and in 1965 another group led by Ron Stoner and Menil Amsbury. In 1970 a float trip down the Green River into Dinosaur National Park was led by Harry Hertneky, Weldon Vance, Curt Penny, and Bob Hendricks, then in L972 a wilderness trip into the San Juan Mountains Area led by Jim Timmie, Lewis Carlin, John Swick, and Bob Hendricks. In 1979 another float trip led by Merle Worden and Harry Hertneky, and in 1981 2 groups ofScouts took the float trip down the Green River, the first one by Jack Currier, Charles Walstrom, and Glen Lucas, and the second one by Glen Davis and Jim Morrison. The Cub Scout program was started in 1949, one year after the Boy Scout program, and has been serving the boys of the Burlington Community for 47 years. Again, the Burlington Rotary Club was the sponsoring institution ofPack 38. It is not known for sure who was the first Cubmaster, but it seems that Parvin Penny and Walter Bauder helped at that time. In June of 1945, Willard Gross moved to Burlington from Colby, Kansas where he had started their Cub Pack in 1941 and served as its Cubmaster for nearly 4 years. While in Colby he also helped organize the Cub Pack in Goodland and Oakley, Kansas. Immediately upon moving to Burlington he was recruited to be the Cubmaster of Pack 38, a position he held fot about 2r/z years. The records are not very complete as to who served as Cubmaster during the fifties and sixties. In the fifties Rev. Omer Timmons, Edward Varela, Martin Buol, and Jim Rawson served as leaders. In l96L Norman Travis was Cubmaster and in 1962 Dale Tallent was signed on and in 1963 through 1966 Willard again served 4 years, followed by Max Hahn. Leaders in the seventies were Dean Brown, LeRoy Arends, Glen Lucas, Lonnie Barlow, Hal Williams, and Phil Woodrick. Then came Pat Gergen in 1981, 1982, and 1983, followed by Obey Barnes in 1984 and 1985. Dale Hansen assumed the Cubmaster responsibility in 1986 and presently is serving in that capacity. There have been many dedicated Cubmasters, Webelo Leaders, Den Mothers, and Committeemen over the years. Many Cubs and parents have been involved in the annual Pinewood Derby and the Blue and Gold dinners and have supported the Cub program. Burlington also has had an Explorer Post from time to time. The records show a Post in 1966 with Ronald C. Stoner as Advisor. Sometime after that George Wells and LeRoy Arends were Advisors to a Post sponsored by the St. Paul's Lutheran Church. The Burlington Rotary club has done much for Scouting over the years. They annually conduct the finance drive to raise funds for our Pikes Peak Council. The Council in turn gives service back to our community in providing training sessions for our leaders, a scout camp, literature, and makes sure that our program is on target and viable in our community. Each fall the Rotary Club hosts a free picnic at the football field which is used as a recruiting time to sign up new Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Boy Scouts. In the late �forties the Rotary Club, with the help of the Town of Burlington, completed the "Scout Kiva" building which previously had been a cement water storage reservoir beneath the water tower at the North end of Main Street. This has been home to the Burlington Troop for over 40 years. It appears that in the near future, that the Boy Scouts and the Girl Scouts will have a new Scout home that will be built and donated by Harold McArthur. Probably the one individual who has promoted and done more for Scouting in Burlington than anyone else is Willard Gross. He has been a registered Scouter for nearly 47 years of which 43 years has been in Burlington. He is known as "Mr. Scouting" in our area. He has served many years on the Cub Scout and Boy Scout committees and in the absence of a Scoutmaster he has assumed that position to keep the program going. He is the recipient of the Silver Beaver Award which is the highest award a Scout Council may bestow upon a Scouter. He is also a recipient of the Award of Merit which was given by the Hi-Plains Scout District. Both of these awards are given for outstanding service to Scouting, for work with youth and participation in church, business, and community activities. The best known person to come out of Burlington's Scouting program is Mike Lounge who was a member of Troop 38 in the late fifties and early sixties. Mike was very active in Scouting and later received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy. He then joined the NASA program and became an astronaut. In 1985 he made 12? orbits of the earth in the "Discovery" Bpacecraft over an 8 day period and was honored in 1985 by the City of Burlington with a big parade, barbeque, football geme and other activities. Scouting has affected the lives ofhundreds of boys in Burlington and we feel it has helped them to "Do Their Best" and to "Be Prepared" for whatever task they undertook. I have looked at several old charters and registration papers to locate names and dates of those who have served. A lot of these papers are missing and I have done the best I can with what information I have to fill in the gaps. I may have missed leaders, but I assure you it has not been intentional. by Willard Gross ROTARY T309 Rotary was born in the city of Burlington on the night ofFeb. 23, 1905. Paul Harris and three of his friends, out of loneliness and the lack of fellowship between men of varied professional interests, developed a club. It was thus that Rotary was founded by men who recognized the need for fellowship as well as the need for securing additional business through contacts with other business men. It was soon discovered however, that the fellow- ship derived from their meetings was far On October 5, 1936, some Burlington businessmen held their first organizational meeting. Nineteen charter members were present and drafted a constitution and bylaws of the Burlington Rotary Club. Those Charter members were: Ned R. Brown, Claude Coleman, John J. Esch, Dr. Glen Flatt, William H. Jacobs, Henry P. Klutz, Elmer C. Baker, Walter H. King, T.W. Backlund, Hugh W. Gleason, Carl Hamilton, Harold Keese, Dr. M.E. Robinson, Louis Vogt, Harry Shank, Arthur Wilson, T.H. Thomas, Orin Penny, and C.D. Reed. From this group, a board of directors were elected and they in turn elected the first officers of the club. The first board and officers were: C.D. Reed, President; T.H. Thomas, vice-president; J.C. Coleman, secretary-treasurer; William H. Jacobs, sergeant of arms; John J. Esch, Henry Klutz, Dr. Glenn Flatt, Ned Brown, and Dr. Murray Robinson the board. Charter night was held at Shank's Cafe on Nov. 17, 1936. It was a gala evening and all members were there with their Anns. Goodland, our sponsor club, had 20 Rotarians with their wives, Denver 17, Colorado Springs 14, and Colby 9, along with District Governor Roy Weaver and Charley Aimes from Pueblo. Berny Vessey was on hand from the Colorado Springs Club and he got us offto a flying start in the singing department. We believe he was the prime reason why Burlington has always been known as the "Singing Club". In 1939-1940, the Aims and Objects committee recommended to the Club that they sponsor a Boy Scout Troop in Burlington, which was approved by the board. In 1941- 1942, Rotarian Glenn Flatt was named treasurer for the Boy Scout organization. The usual contribution was made to the community Christmas program and a committee of Jacobs, Rhoades and Hoskin were named to Club. The Walking Blood Bank for the new Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital was sponsored and funds were raised to buy an automatic elevator for the hospital. In 19531954, the club sponsored a drive to send lead pencils to the children in Syria. The Club had a rather unusual distinction in 1954-55, in that it had three sets of fathers and sons: John Buol with sons Kermit and Martin; Thornton Thomas with son Richard; and William Hendricks with son Bob. The Club was responsible for a very successful father's night with 100 local farmers in attendance. In 1959-60, the group sponsored the first all community talent show. New members for the year 1960-1961 were: Mel Semmel, Dale Kelly, Dr. Ben Jones, Dr. Clancy Ross and John Hudler was reinstated. In 1961-1962, the highlight ofthe year was the 25th anniversary of the club. 5 members of the 19 charter members were present. During the year the club caried out a bicycle safety program under the direction of Dale Hanna and Dr. Beethe. A total of 159 bicycles were inspected and licensed in Burlington. In the spring, a bicycle rodeo was held with over 100 boys and girls competing for prizes. The State Highway Patrol helped with the program. The main feature of the year 1963-64 came with the appearance of the Air Force Academy Band of 60 pieces. A packed house of more than 1000 persons heard the concert. In 1965-1966, the board voted to pay the expenses for seven boys to attend the Christian Athletes Convention in Estes Park. New members that year were: Fred Rock, C.W. Patrick, John Swick, and Brett Bell. The club assisted in sponsoring the F.C.A. boys group who attended a state conference, several exchange students from and to Aus- tralia and Farmer's Night sponsoring many Hoskin, Standish, Winningham, Fisher, farmers of the area. Rotary sponsored a circus in 1973 which proved to be well received. Nine new members were taken into the membership. Two charter members and past presidents, Cece Reed and Thornton Thomas passed away. The Boy Scout fund drive was the largest ever collected, $4,927,in 1976. Two members were taken in and the club presented a "Variety and Talent" show which was very successful. In1976-1977 nine new members joined the group. 1980 had a very successful Boy Scout fund drive with $5,338.00 collected and six new members were taken in. The annual Bell Bonfils Blood drive was started and has been an ongoing project through the 80's. The club has served the annual Pancake Feed at the Little Britches Rodeo as a fund raising project. The club gave tribute to Willard Gross, known as Mr. Scouting in this area and organized the "Rooster Roundup" a brainstorm of Rod Rawson in 1982-83. Over $6000.00 was raised by way of the roundup and has proven to be a great success through Pugh, Harrison, Bruner Penny, Houschouer, the 1980's. assist in this work. The Club also voted to make a contribution of $1 per member towards the purchase of an ambulance for war work. In 1942-1943, arrangements were approved for the holding of the annual boy scout carnival. During the year the club gave free movie tickets to the boys being inducted into the armed service. In 1943-1944. one of the main efforts of the year was the securing of a permanent meeting place for the Boy Scouts, being sponsored by the group. The board of directors voted to buy a piano for the club that year. The following year, since the war seemed to be drawing closer to an end, the Rotary decided to sponsor the hospital as a community project. tn 1945 and 46, much time was given to sponsoring the hospital for Burlington. New members were initiated into the club that year: Rev. Henry Beatty, Harold McArthur, Kermit Buol, Bob Shamburg, Henry Ardueser, Fundingsland, Zick and Powell. Projects for the year were limited by necessity due to the tremendous effort on the part of club members to carry to completion its one main project that of erecting the Kit more important than the making of sales. In the Rotary year 1960-61, the Burlington Club reached its greatest heights up to that time. The club was honored by having one of its members for district governor in District 547, Walter King, charter member and 8th president of the club was recipient of the Carson County Hospital. The brickwork rapidly neared completion and the cornerstone was laid in the spring of L947. At last the hospital was complete and the first patient was received in June 1948. In 1951-1952, the Burlington Rotary be- honor, c'me a 100% Rotary Foundation Fellowship OLD TOWN T310 Old Town had its beginning when Edgar Pratt went to Ernest McArthur to ask him about moving a barn to Burlington from the Charley Pizel place which is north of Kanorado, Kansas. They went to the fair grounds to � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource History of Kit Carson County Description An account of the resource Brief historical stories and elements from the founding and recent history of Kit Carson County, Colorado. Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Book Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Burlington Date Created Date of creation of the resource. 1988 Subject The topic of the resource history Description An account of the resource A history of the Town of Burlington as recorded in the book History of Kit Carson County Type The nature or genre of the resource text Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Salmons, Janice Hasart, Marlyn Smith, Dorothy Language A language of the resource English Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. History of Kit Carson County Volume 1 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource text/pdf Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Curtis Media Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/</a> https://kccarchives.cvlcollections.org/files/original/16/407/Businesses.pdf 03dd4dbd03db888ac7dfd0ba054723b8 PDF Text Text GREAT WESTERN TIRE CO. B1 The Great Western Tire Company was purchased in L977, from Keith Bracelin and Warren Cook, by Jerry Arendsee. Some of the past managers were Ken Moddlemog and Don McCune. The new and present manager is Dan Spain from Rapid City, South Dakota. Jerry Arendsee added 2 bays, one a line bay and the other a service bay in 1980. The office, showroom and warehouse were added later. They primarily sell Goodyear tires, but also sell Michelin and Dunlop and other tires and auto service. They employ about 6 employees on the average. A change of the time is the in this territory. The company also had a well-equipped retail station on Main Street, next door to Orin Penny. P.J. Remington was the local agent, who assumed control of the business on Januarv. 1929. D.G. LIQUORS/ROADRUNNER BAR AND CAFE 83 The First National Bank at Burlington new idea of the Radial tractor tire. This provides for a large tire business and the quality is good. Another sign of the times is the introduction of the computerized equipment on line, for the last ten years. is.s . by Marilyn Hasart OLD OIL BUSINESSES B2 In the van of the rapid advancement of Burlington's business interests was the White Eagle Oil Corporation, located in the northern part of the city, just east of the depot. This firm was exclusive distributor in this territory of the far-famed White Eagle gasoline, kerosene, and Keynoil and Mobiloil motor oils and greases. These products had been sought after by discriminating motorists. The local bulk station supplied the Bur- Iington retail station, also a number of independent dealers and large consumers in this locality, deliveries being made to all parts of the surrounding territory. R.E. Hook was the agent for the company. The Continental Oil Company was located on North Main Street, opposite the then City Hall. This company operated a modernly equipped filling station, and also had a large bulk station here. They handle Conoco gasoline, kerosene, motor oils, greases, and Esco and Germ processed oils, which had few equals on the market. The business was managed by R.W. Plummer. The Sinclair Service Station No. 1 was located on Main Street. This station made a specialty of the famous Sinclair gasoline, motor oils and greases. It was on April 1, 1929, when this company assumed control although it was originally established some time before that date. E.E. Hoskin was the manager. The history of the Sinclair Refining Company dates back to March 28,1923. The local bulk station, which is situated east of the Rock Island depot, handles the entire Sinclair line of petroleum products, which comprises Sinclair gasoline, Sinclair High Compression gasoline, kerosene, distillate, Opalene and Mobilene motor oils and greases. These products have been on the market for years. The Burlington station covers Kit Carson county, making deliveries by truck to a number of dealers as well as large consumers D.G. Liquors and Roadrunner Bar and Cafe in Stratton. . ahistoriclandmark Donald D. and Patricia C. Guernsey at present are conducting business as the Roadrunner Bar and Cafe, 2L7 Colorado Avenue, and D.G. Liquors at 211 Colorado Avenue, and live above the businesses at 2l7Vz Colorado Avenue. We purchased the Roadrunner May 1, 1980. Since we have moved to Stratton, we have sandblasted the exterior ofthe building, painted and remodeled the upstairs and downstairs, updating the electricity and bathrooms. The abstract of the property is quite interesting as it goes back to the 1880's, we presume, based on the abstract, the north half of our building was the first bank of Stratton. We still maintain the vault. The The First National Bank at Burlington, Drive-thru Facility. still holds, Mr. Harker has given direction to a growing viable bank which has helped finance the growth of irrigation, dryland farming, cattle feeding and the many service related businesses. More than twenty-five new businesses have received their financing original vault inspections were 1911 through 1922 and, are still on the vault doors. from the First National Bank. Drive-Up facilities were provided in 1980 to add more convenience for the customers by Patricia Guernsey by expanding the business hours. On line wire service for money transfers were also provided by the bank. In 1973 Mr. Harker was elected to the THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK AT BURLINGTON B4 The First National Bank at Burlington was organized and chartered in 1963 to meet the needs of a growing agriculture community. John E. Harker, a farmer and rancher of the area, saw the need for an additional financial institution to provide credit for this progres- sive industry of agriculture. A feasibility study made by the Denver University indicated that this assessment was correct and Mr. Harker then filed for a charter. It was granted by the Comptroller of Currency in August of 1963. Assuming the office of Chairman of The Board. an office which he Colorado Bankers Assn. representing District C-3. In 1976 he was elected to serve the office of President for the Association. During this time the EFT Bill became an Act. This was after many Iong hours from the beginning of the Task Force study to the final lobbying. Officers of the Bank have continued their education through attending The Colorado School of Banking, Colo. Agriculture Lending Forum, American Bankers Assn. Agriculture Meetings and various seminars given to update them in new banking regulations. The present officers are: President John E. Hark- er, Vice-President and Cashier Jimmie L. Jones, Vice-President Tim J. Weibel. The current directors are John Harker. R.C. Beethe, Jimmie L. Jones, Harold McArthur and Ray Rhoades. The First National Bank is the only locally owned financial institution in Burlington and has fifty local shareholders who have supported the bank �over the years and have seen it grow to totals of over thirty million. by Norene Harker A stockholders meeting was held in June of 1918 for the purpose of organizing a bank in Stratton, Colorado. Mr. E.W. Tarrant was the new building with an open house in October of 1962. In 1965, Mr. J.W. Borders Secretary, and they were employed to Iook H.E. Clark, President and Mr. Bob Best, Vice President. Through the remainder of the 60's and ?0's the Bank remained under the capable direction of Mr. H.E. Clark seeing its 50th anniversary in July of 1968, and continued to grow and prosper. Mr. H.E. Clark and stockholders sold the Bank in September of 1981. Mr. Robert L. Todd became President and Chairman of the Board upon the sale of the Bank with Mr. H.E. Clark remaining on the Board of Directors. The Bank continued to grow from its asset size of $18,000,000.00 through the early part of the 80's to approximately $25,000,000.00 before encountering named Chairman and Mr. M.E. Denver, after the affairs of the bank during its ORIN P. PENNY HARDWARE B5 formation. The Federal Reserve Bank Charter was issued on November 4, 1918, making official the creation of The First National Bank of Stratton. From the first meeting of June of 1918. Mr. E.W. Tarrant continued to watch the affairs of the Bank until his resignation in 1923 at which time Mr. J.W. Borders was elected President, Mr. D.E. Davis, Vice President and Mr. J.G. Ford as Cashier. In that same year Mr. R.H. Calverly was appointed Vice President and Director B&on, Orin P. Penny; Hardware, furniture, Undertaking; Burlington, Colorado The Burlington business was one of the largest and well stocked retail houses of its kind in eastern Colorado. The business was located in a modern brick structure which is finely adapted for the purpose it was intended and contains dimensions of about 50X140 feet with a basement half the size of the building. The stock was comprised of staple and heavy hardware, farm implements, cream separators, gasoline engines, Delco light plants, Frigidaire refrigerators, furniture, stoves, ranges, household necessities, rangers' supplies, and sporting goods. Orin P. Penny also ran a funeral parlor. with active management being tendered to Mr. R.H. Calverly on January 8, L924. In April of 1924 a call to raise money for STRATTON, coLoRADO 80836 L.L. Pugh was Chairman of the Board, Mr. the tough conditions of the agricultural economy in the'83-86 period. the purchase of shares through assessment of the current shareholders was not met by all of the stockholders and subsequently several of the existing bank officers and directors acquired additional stock of Mr. E.W. Tarrant. In June of 1926 Mr. Ford resigned from his cashier duties and Mr. R.H. Calverly was elected as Cashier. In October of 1926, total assets of the bank were $157,018.00. Today the Bank continues to grow and flourish and provide a stable source of funds and deposits for the community of Stratton and its surrounding territories in Kit Carson County. The Bank has seen both good and bad times but continues to be optimistic for the future of this fine community and the eastern plains of Colorado. The First National Bank of Stratton proudly claims its from the Director's minutes "We felt that it was better business to liquidate the by Mr. Robert L. Todd The bank continued to run through good and bad cycles during the L929 and early 30's culminating on May of 1934 with an excerpt Bank as the Bank was over capitalized now for the size of the town and the burden of taxes would be too great for a Bank of this size; but under general conditions it seems that there is no way but to take preferred stock" and hence was born a request for a Reconstruction Finance Loan to see the Bank through the dark days of the early 30's. In place as a cornerstone of Kit Carson County and will continue to provide a stable building base for the years to come. SOMEPLACE SPECIAL 87 December of 1936, the balance of the monies borrowed under the Reconstruction Finance Act were repaid to the U.S. Treasury and by L944t}ire Bank was once again free and clear. In 1940 deposits totaled $203,000.00. Significant growth in 1944 and 1945 resulted from the largest wheat crop the community had ever seen. Deposits had grown from $203,000.00 in 1940 to a little over THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK was the honorary Chairman of the Board, Mr. * - ::rl!:r -i'ir!irqix;;4; ., .- :-t:rr,:& ._ '...-.. 'trf.qs. " ll..:, liry,i ##n f* $2,233,000.00 by the end of L947. In January of 1946 Mr. H.K. Clark was elected Director and was further appointed to the position of Vice President in 1948. Mr. R.H. Calverly became President of the Bank in January of 1951 with Mr. H.E. Clark coming on the Board at the passing of his father in 1952. In 1955 Mr. H.E. Clark was elected as Vice President of the Bank and shortly thereafter Mr. Calverly resigned. Years 1955 and 1956 were some of the toughest years brought on by drought conditions in the local area and the Bank once again endured the rough times until some relief was provided through the ASCS Soil Bank program in 1957. Mr. Bob Best was elected Assistant Cashier along with Wanda Sweet in January of 1957. In early 1960 John G. Clark was elected as President of the Bank with J.W. Borders as Chairman of the Board. Mr. Clark resigned effective January 10, 1961, with Mr. L.L. Pugh being elected as President, Mr. H.E. Clark. Executive Vice President and Mr. Bob Best, Cashier. Savings interest was raised to The First National Bank, Stratton, Colorado 37o at that time. In November of 1961 discussion was undertaken concerning the building of a new bank building in Stratton. Dedication was made of Someplace Special, a Stratton clothing store Someplace Special is a clothing store in Stratton located in the same building at the corner of Colorado Avenue and Main Street which has housed a number of previous clothing stores within the past 40 years. The present owners, Dischners IGA, have been in �business there since the November. 1984 opening. by Marlyn Dischner STRATTON UPHOLSTERY AND SPORTTNG GOODS"TO OLD DRUG STORES IN BURLINGTON B8 The Busy Corner Fountain was located on L92L. now in what a modest way this tremendous industry was started, of how great its ramifications had become. This theatre was modern in construction; its equipment was the latest and was adistically decorated throughout. The house seating would accommodate 400 or more persons. The Midway theatre was an old established enterprise and in 1929, had been under the management of Orin Milburn and V.S. Hennen for about four years. They exhibited the latest in All Talking Main Street. This firm served all kinds of refreshing temperance beverages, ice cream, frozen dainties, sandwiches, light lunches, etc., also carried a line of druggists'sundries, toilet articles, stationery, fine candies, cigars, tobacco, cigarettes, kodaks, films, magazines, newspapers, periodicals, etc. Starting in business on Sept. 10, 1928, the Fountain was owned by E.G. Ormsbee. The Rexall Store had been located next to the Stock Growers State Bank, and met every requirement in its growing field. The place provided with specially designed fixtures and all stock was kept under glass and free from dirt, soot and moisture. They dealt in pure drugs, allied specialties and also did kodak developing and printing. A feature of the store was the up-to-date fountain. This firm consisted of E.L. Weinandt and J.D. Brown, both registered pharmacists. The only registered pharmacists in the city. One of their special lines was the famous Rexall family remedies and druggist sundries. The firm had been established since grown so rapidly that one seldom remembers Pictures tobe had from leading studios of the world, and no picture shown that could possible offend the most refined. Stratton Upholstery and Sporting Goods in 1988 STRATTON LIVESTOCK, TNC. Br2 To make a long story into a few paragraphs, we started out with a used furniture store and upholstery in the mid 1940's in Burlington. In 1951 we moved on a farm 13 miles north of Vona. When farming began going down hill, we decided to try our hand at upholstering again on the farm. In 1957 we set up our shop (across the street from our present location) in with the Red's Body Shop owned and operated by Red and Nita Lindsey. We drove to and from the farm each day. In 1958 we moved into Stratton and continued our upholstery in with the body shop. As our business grew too large for the same building, we moved across the street in BURLINGTON AUDITORIUM a building just south of our present location. At that time the building was owned by Bob Miller. At one time it housed a liquor store B9 The homestead boom of 1902 to 1906 was a reality, and more community activities were thus possible. Following the successful 1908 festival in the Auditorium were Shakespearean plays, roller skating and other projects until it was bought by Louis Vogt and the lumber used to build his new Midway - the present movie house, which still stands on Fourteenth Street. Most memorable event besides the first Fair in the auditorium was a huge land sale by A.W. Winegar, a well known early community Realtor and builder, who brought a train load of buyers from the east, importing rented cars from Denver to take them into the country. Hot winds curled the crops between the time the land sale was planned and the time the Easterners arrived, so only moderate returns were gleaned for his efforts; but some new settlers were coming all the time. Thus the need for events to keep them here. such as the Fair. operated by Charley Scholz. The old American Legion Hall used to be where Millers used car lot is located now. In 1962 we purchased the building to the north from Joe Evans who had a pool hall. When this building was built it was a bakery. There were brick ovens out behind where they baked their bread outdoors. Some of the bottom part is still visible today. The north part was a living quarters. At one time it was Phil's TV operated by Phil Helsel. We continued with our upholstery and added used furniture. In 1967 we got our first firearms license. Soon we added archery equipment. In a few years, by Ray selling archery equipment and trading for firearms, our store was built into what it is today "The Biggest Little Sporting Goods Store -in Colorado." by Ray and Lila Jones MIDWAY THEATRE COMPANY Btr Not many years ago, when the moving picture show opened its doors timidly, offering its exhibitions for an admission of not more than five or ten cents, one was inclined to laugh at its pretensions as a surveyor of public emusement. But the business has 1988 view of Stratton Livestock. Inc. In the spring of 1976, various individuals of the Stratton community agreed that the community needed a livestock market, and agreed to assist an individual in the construc- tion of a facility. Richard C. Engel was contacted and agreed to be this individual. These various persons, nineteen in all, agreed to finance $200,000.00 for the construction. Total cost when completed was $240,000.00. It was built during the year 1976, the first sale was in September 1976. Richard "Dick" Engel designed and oversaw the building of the facility. Much volun- teer labor went into the construction of the barn and corrals. Nearly all of the materials were purchased locally, most of them at cost. The businesses in Stratton knew they would also benefit greatly from this new business. The facility consists of a cinderblock building containing a sales pavilion which seats 221, office space and a restaurant which seats 45. A shed attached to the north contains the scales and some small pens. There is pen space for 5000 cattle, three main loading chutes, 3 pick-up loading chutes and an adjustable chute for loading hogs or calves. Dick owned and operated the business, known as Stratton Livestock Marketing Center, Inc. (changed in 1983 to Stratton Livestock, Inc.) from 1976 until June 1984. Elizabeth Engel was the office manager. From July 1984 until the end of December 1984 it was owned by Bill Hornung and managed by Harold Adolf; office manager was Donna Gwyn. In January 1985 LeRoy Herndon bought Stratton Livestock, Inc. and still owns and operates it at this time. Eleanor �Herndon is the office manager. The largest number of cattle for any one sale was in October 1980 when 4336 head were sold. The largest number for any one year was 1981, with 75,16? head of cattle sold. Records aren't available for hogs, horses or sheep. 1980-1982 were the years when the livestock numbers were at an all time high in this area. Since then, many people have sold their cow herds and run just calves and yearlings. Many of these cattle are brought in from other states such as Montana, Missouri, Mississippi and Arkansas because there aren't enough in the local area to supply the needs of the area feedlots and grassland. When the barn first opened, the sale was on Monday. Later this was changed to Tuesday, with hogs on Wednesday. At the present hogs are sold on Tuesday at 10:30 This is the grocery store that was run by Chris & Myrtle Buchanan back in about 1930 to 1933, located at what is now 1461 Senter Street. a.m. and cattle Tues. at 12:30 p.m. There is a horse sale once a year and sheep sales about every two months to accommodate the growing number of sheep producers in the area. Auctioneers have been Pete Schlichenmayer and Tom Westrope assisted by Lyle Garner, Dick Engel, John Nichols, Bob Gates, Dick Homm and Ed Herndon. Veterinarian is Dr. Joe M. Bohnen, DVM Brand Inspectors are Les Davis, Paul Scott and Jim Palmer. Previous Brand Inspectors have been Don Pursley and Ed Humphreys. Present employees are: Office: Eleanor Herndon, manager; Donna Gwyn, assistant; Audrey Eisenhart; Rene Weibel; Virginia Malone; Charlene Gorton By 1923 his own order slips said "strictly cash" but we do not think that was adhered to closelv. Bringing the cows to the meat market for butchering. by W.H. Yersin. By the fall of 1929, it was about seven years old. and Susan Corliss Block: Tom Westrope, auctioneer; Lyle Garner, penback and auctioneer; Ed Hern- don weighmaster and auctioneer; Dick Hcrfrm auctioneer - hog sale; Sharon Powell, deighmaster and clerk. Ringmen: LeRoy Herndon, owner and operator; Wil Adolf Yards: William Cure; Beulah Garner; Gregg Laybourn; Charlene Mills; Leland Monroe; Loran Moore; Steve Stegman; Connie Stegman; John Hoyda; Albert Warkentine; Rueben Schreiner, Bud Matthews. Cafe: Cecelia Fox' manager; Gladys Beeson; Marilyn Pottorff; Trudy Herndon; Angela Isenbart; Dorothy Lucas. Custodians: Richard Flageolle and Kathy Herndon Field Representative: Joe Bohnen DISCHNER'S IGA 814 r,T:Wr, GEN$RAL MPR A.J. (Tony) Dischner entered the service in World War I. A few years after he returned, he purchased the N.H. Fuller general store located on the northeast end of today's Colorado Avenue in Stratton in 1921. At that time prices were not marked on items but carried in a clerk's head. Tony or a clerk wrote up all orders on a pad, and they would round up the requested items for the customers. Tony used many suppliers and was in effect a small wholesaler. There was no refrigeration in those days. by Eleanor Herndon OLD GROCERY STORES 1920's Bacon came in a slab; sugar, beans, dried fruit, cookies and vinegar came in bulk. Folks brought their own vinegar jug. Flour was in 50 pound cloth sacks. . . the source ofevery kitchen's dishtowels. Bulk cookies were a big item. Ed Dischner recalls the buying of eggs which were then traded for groceries and household items. At that time there were three or more cream stations in town, and most families were fed with cream and egg 813 The following is a listing of some of the past and present grocery stores in the Burlington vicinity. The Buchanan Cash Store is one of these, owned by C.J. Buchanan. One of the stores featured the famous Solitaire groceries exclusively. It was the grocery store of Carl Hamilton, owned by Mr. Hamilton. He had been in the grocery and meat business since 1918 or 1919 and was located at the location of Main Street for two years in 1929. Also located on Main Street, was The Red Front Grocery. This business was managed A.J. would love Dischner's IGA at 216 Colorado Avenue, Stratton Tony Dischner must have used N.H. Fuller order pads for a time. money. Tony extended a great deal of credit and he was able to operate with credit from the ware houses. In 1936 Dischner's dropped clothing from the general store line and became a grocery store strictly. In 195L much remodeling was done to accommodate the new innovation of carts for customers to �choose their own groceries. A new counter and shelving made the store like all new establishment. In 1963 Tony sold the store to his son, Ed, but he continued to work in the store until he took sick in 1964. Shortly, he passed away in January 1964 at age 75, after forty-three years ofserving Stratton households. In 1966 Dischner's moved to its present 216 Colorado Avenue site after buying the grocery business of Mel Hatfield, who had procured the grocery of John and Dick Buhr. Today Dischner's IGA is a very large grocery serving customers from a very wide area. by Ed Dischner AMBULANCE OF STRATTON Mary Schulte, Jan Halderman, John O'Brien, Greg Engle, and Rev. Bloomer the others are still active. Many people have helped in the support of our ambulance service, with money making projects, and money gifts which have helped to gain equipment and allowed continuing education. Things have changed a lot in the fourteen years of service, from our old stations wagons to our newest ambulance. We have also added a Fire/Rescue vehicle and extrication equipment. We sincerely apologize if we have missed any one that was associated with the ambulance. Your time and effort were appreciated. We would like to thank the community for its support. D&D CLEANERS 815 ness for ourselves. There wasn't much business, Burlington was just coming out of the Dirty 50's. The cleaners in Cheyenne Wells was closing so we started a route to Cheyenne Wells and Kit Carson. We also had a route to Stratton, Vona, and Seibert. About 1960 the Flagler Cleaners was for sale, Dean, Freda and family moved to Flagler and we bought the Flagler Cleaners (I had lived and worked in Flagler in 19b4 at this cleaners.) Dean operated this plant for m€rny years. In 1958 we were charging about 600 for a pair of pants, 91.25 for a suit. Hangers, In 1973 Stratton got its first ambulance, and we became a part of the Kit Carson County Ambulance Service. The first one was an Oldsmobile station wagon. It was graduated to yet another station wagon, which was followed by a van. It was eventually replaced by a Cadillac, which was replaced by a Type I ambulance. It was first housed in the old fire house on Colorado Avenue, and later moved to the new fire house. Our first EMT's were Ace Woller, Louis and Lynna Pugh, Dick Wheeling, and Sherry Monroe. They were followed by Mrs. Harley Pottorff, Mrs. Bob Pottorff, Evelyn Schmidt, Joni Pottorfi Karen Fehrenbach. Marv Havens, Nona Woller and Janet Carnathan. As the years went on they were followed by KentJostes, Ron Curry, and Kevin Hubbard. In 1983 a new group took up the reins with Rev. Don Bloomer, Jim McConnell. Cindv McCombs, Marjo Shean, Janet Halderman. We continued to add to our ranks with Sonia Schuman, Mary Schulte, Melody Schulte, John O'Brien, Rob Coles, Greg Engle, and Ed Herndon. We have several drivers who help out: Kathy Woller, Rod Blackwelder, Don Peters, Pam Smith, Vern and Betty Dresher, and Mike Dreher. With the exception of of school look good. The future of our business depends on the economic condition of the area. by Dallas Stevens GAMBLES STORE Bl7 816 In 1958, I, Dallas Stevens, Doris. and our two daughters Dana and Debbie were in Brush, Co. I was working at Stars Cleaning Shop there. I had been in dry cleaning since 1952; my brother Dean was in construction in Brush also. A cleaning shop was for sale, Jack The Cleaners, and I talked Dean into coming with me back to Burlington and going into busi- Max Toland administering oxygen well groomed in 1987. Our young people out supplies, and cleaning fluid have gone up 700% since 1958. We had a period in the 60's when coin-op dry cleaning, polyester hurt the cleaning business (selling point for clothing stores, as polyester cleaned beautifully) but since those have passed, the materials popular in 1987 are about as they were in 1958, wool, silk, cotton, and rayon. Some of our early employees at the D&D Cleaners at 470 14th St. were my Mother, Alberta Sevens 1960-66, seamstresses were Mildred Bishop, Carrol Kosch, Reta Loun- ger, and my wife Doris. Over the years we have been a family business, and our children have all been trained and worked there through school years. Dana, Debbie, Diane, Devona, Dee and Derek. In 1975 we bought Felzien's Cleaners and moved to present location at 260 14th St. Irma Robertson worked for us 1975 -'82 as a seamstress. Devona Jensen, has worked since 1980-87. She, my wife and I operate it at this time. Over the years we have done cleaning for many generations, some of our customers have been with us for 30 years. Our trade area reaches from Arriba to Goodland and from Wray to Cheyenne Wells. The future looks good for our business, wool, silk, cotton are back, and people are Gambles Hardware, Stratton, celebrating 25 years in 1988. The Stratton Gambles Store was started bv Mr. and Mrs. George Heid around 1g48 in thl building south of the B and B Drug Store. Mrs. Heid sold the business after her husband's death to Mike and Alyce Lewis. In June 1963 Gene and Rosemary Jostes purchased the business from them. In 1966 thev purchased the building the store is presently in. It was formerly a dry goods store started in the 1920's by George Waters. He later sold this business to Bernard Waldron. who later sold it to Les Hatfield, who later sold the business to Leonard Dischner, who later sold it to Virgil Pugh all of whom in the many years operated it as a dry goods store. Virgil sold the store to Gene and Rosemary Jostes, who remodeled it and moved their hardware store there. This year of 1988 Gene and Rosemarv are celebrating their 25th year as owners and operators of the Gambles Store in Stratton. by Gene Jostes LIGHTLELOG Br8 James Lightle and his wife, Joyce, were involved in a cattle operation and managing a custom haying operation when an article appeared in the High Plains Journal which caught their eye and changed the direction of their business and life. This article explained a revolutionary process for converting the straw of cereal grains into a clean-burning material for fireplaces and wood-burning stoves. Lightle was impressed with the new process and recognized the marketing possibilities for a product that would contribute to the agricultural economy while it helped to keep the environment clean. After much research, it was decided to pursue this business. The couple was able to convince a banker and enough investors to support their venture, and by January of 1987, the Lightles had the money needed to �Dave's Brand Inn Iron J.B. Automotive in Stratton at a site with a colorful past Johnsons. Then after, it was the "Supper Club" until around 1975. At that time it became the Brand Inn lron. In August of 1985 it was changed to "Dave's Brand Inn Iron" and is presently owned by Dave and Marcia Eder. by Marcia Eder James Lightle, president of Lightlelog, Inc. of Burlington displays a bag of the finished product his firm is manufacturing. open Lightlelog, Inc. for business. Lightle says the biggest obstacle the business faces is the fact that the consumer knows very little about alternatives logs. However, he believes once they are educated about the benefits of burning straw logs, and more logs are circulated in the marketplace, the demand for the product should soar. Some of the major selling points of straw logs are their ability to burn cleanly, producing very little smoke. They leave a clean ash, high in potash, rather than the messy charcoal ash left by wood. The straw logs leave absolutely no creosote buildup in fireplaces and stoves. The current market price for a 40-lb bag of Lightlelog straw logs is $9.99. The 20-lb boxes sell for $6.99. Lightle points out the price is another area where straw logs have BURLINGTON FLOWER SHOP business that can benefit the consumer, the farmer, the processor and the local community. "Now, we just have to be patient and try to build interest." by James Lightle DAVE'S BRAND INN IRON 819 "Dave's Brand Inn Iron" was originally built in 1947 by Bill and Glen Holloway, Lewis Beck and Nick Stoffel. It was owned by Al and Lillie Young and named "Al and Lil's Bar and Cafe". In 1950 Charles Sholes 820 building and the long time ago post office was then an automotive mechanic's shop. Along with the automotive work he also ran a wrecker service. After his death, the business was purchased by Everett H. Duncan, who then sold the business to ArDale and Janet Schulte in 1980. The business was called D&S. JB Automotive is now owned by Jack A. Burian who purchased the building in 1986. The business employs three full time mechanics. It offers automobile repairs, tire service, and a 24 hour wrecker service. by Julie Smith KENNY'S SEED AND SUPPLY Christmastime at the Flower Shop Ba2 The Burlington Flower Shop has been in business for 25 years. It was started by Jim and Dixie Johnson in 1961. Some of the first services were the flower shop, greenhouse, and landscaping services. It is still located in the same location, on the north end of 14th Street. The business was sold to Evelyn Busby in 1977. Jean Swafford and Jatta Miller purchased the business in May of 1983. It is no longer a nursery as the green house was destroyed by a hail storm in 1981. The landscaping services were ceased when the Johnsons sold the business. by Jean Swafford built an addition on the south side and living J.B. AUTOMOTIVE quarters in the back. The bar was then moved to the south side and has not been changed since then. Dorothy Lucas who still resides in Stratton was one of AI and Lil's long time employees. In 1956 Al and Lil's Bar and Cafe was sold to Fay and Maime Jones. In the 1960's it was called "Johnny and $150.00 for the land where J.B. Automotive now sits. The office of the building now was once Eva Hamilton's post office from downtown. Byrd Cassity ran his station for many Betty's Supper Club", and operated by the famous customers: E.A. Richardson, Indiana poet laureate and Mr. Red Skelton. Byrd died in 1960 and his wife Dessie kept the station for several years after his death having others runs the business for her. In 1964 Anthony J. and Dolores K. Liebl bought the business and it became Joe's Used Cars. In 1969 Robert M. Miller owned the building which he used for storage. He sold the building and land to Gary and Diane Salmans in 1974. Gary added on to the the advantage over wood. The Lightles feel this is definitely a penny candy and pop. They had several BzL In 1936 Byrd and Dessie Cassity paid years. Cassity's Service Station sold gas, Kenneth Pottorff handles his dealership of several agricultural necessities of today from his Stratton Iandmark office. In 1964, Kenneth Pottorff became a Dekalb Seed Dealer, and like many seed dealers, operated the business at his farm southeast of Stratton along with his cattle and farming interests. In 1968 Kenny purchased the building on Colorado Avenue. The earliest business in the building that he has knowledge of was the Holloway Chewolet Garage. Then Shell �Grain had the building, using it for Grain storage until their business closed. Robert Miller then bought the building, which he sold to Kenny in November 1968. Kenney's seed business increased and foreseeing the opportunity to expand his business, he moved his seed and chemicals up town, opening up the business as Kenny's Dekalb Seeds. Mrs. Bob Pottorff was hired to work in the office in the south side of the building. The business was only open during the planting season, which was March through July. In March of 1969, Dorothy Lucas was hired to work in the office, as receptionist and salesperson until 1982, when she had to quit due to the illness of her husband. Myra Davis was hired to replace her. In 1971 Kenny's brother Loren Pottorff started working and is still working for his firm today. Late in 1969 the new office on the north side of the building was completed and we moved into it in the spring of 1970. Then additional offices were added int974, adding a bookkeeping office and an office for Kenny. The name was then changed to Kenny's Seed and Supply. In 1971 Kenny expanded the business, taking the dealership to sell Arcadian Fertilizer. He was the first to sell Liquid Fertilizer in this area. Kenny bought the lots on the corner ofFirst St. and Colorado Avenue from Andrew Selenke to put up storage tanks for fertilizer and the liquid feed. He then bought move was needed and Langston Style Shop CENTER north of the Midway Theatre and was B23 The Burlington Home Center opened its high school. The business grew and Al retired to become full time builder and retailer passing the services and knowledge he had on to the people in the area. the added storage area for a growing business. by Al and Norma Bandel LANGSTON STYLE SHOP 824 Kenny has seen many changes in the economy of the country that affects farmers and Businessmen alike. At the present time Kenny employs 5 people through the business. They are Loren Pottorff since 1971, Jo Bauman, bookkeeper since L977, Jan Schulte, receptionist and salesperson since 1985, Harry Fox and Jim Fox since 1986. by Dorothy Lucas The Orth's, Helmuth, Francis, Dennis, Jean and Sterling, 10 months. Taken in front of Orth's Department Store on their 28th anniversary. Orth's Department Store celebrated it's 28th anniversary in June of 1987. Helmuth, Francis, Dennis and Jean have, over the past 28 years, made their department store one of the largest independent stores in the tri-state area. The family opened its store 28 years ago in the building formerly occupied by J.C. Penney's. A modest store with only 2,b00 ployed for parts, sales and service of Zimmatic Sprinklers. In 1979-1986 Marc Pottorff worked as Zimmatic service man. In 1982 the business was closed in Burlington and the parts department was moved to the Stratton store. In 1978 the Richardson Farm Machinery During the past 20 years in business, B26 and in 1983 another 6,500 sq. ft. was added to house the mill shop and receiving dock and Burlington. Jo Bauman was employed as the bookkeeper and Royce Roemer was em- Avenue was purchased in 1981 from Jenny Zurcher and is used to display new and used machinery that is for sale. DEPARTMENT STORE enclose the building material and to add a drive through custom service lane. ln L977 Burlington Home Center, as it became known, joined Our Own Hardware ln 1977, Kenny became a dealer for In 1981 Kenny purchased the south halfof the lots where the old high school stood. In 1982 he erected a large Butler building to use for storage. The corner of 4th and Colorado ORTH'S The 40'x100' sq. ft. building was enlarged Lindsay Zimmatic Sprinkler systems, and bought the Gigot Valley building west of rzet, by Vanetta Pottorff to include a 11,000 sq. ft. warehouse to 1977. ammonia along with selling the liquid fertil- operated until 1973 when the store was closed after 25 years of business. Bandel for the purpose of supplying the specialty items he needed for the custom homes he was building during his summer break from teaching Industrial Arts at the replace the Tyro. The dealership of Compensator Liquid Feed was added this year also, along with adding a fertilizer blender building on the corner of First and Colorado in at his farm and began selling anhydrous found its home in the Hamilton Building, doors in the fall of 1974. It was started by Al a Tryco flotation applicator to apply the fertilizer. In 1973 he purchased a Big A to and Big Ox dealerships were added to the business. In 1986 Kenny put up storage tanks Again, because of more growth, a third BURLINGTON HOME Hazel and Walter Langston In 1948 Langston Style Shop had its beginning with Hazel working for Ed Hanten's Mens Shop, located north of Penny's Hardware. Mr. Hanten agreed that she could buy some dresses and sell them while working for him. She used racks made out of old water pipes to hang 12 dresses on. She added to her stock and in 1950, after Mr. Hanten closed his store, Hazel moved her merchandise across the street into a little shop in the front end of the north side of the present Burlington Record on Main Street where she had her first exclusive shop. At this time, Walter Langston retired from his job with the State Highway Department and became involved in the business. They were at this location for about three years, but because of growth another move was needed and they enlarged their stock and moved to the Hammond Building on Senter Avenue where they operated their business for the next six years. square feet, the store now consists ofapproximately 8,000 square feet. The Orths purchased the old Safeway store 25 years ago as they began to expand their operation to accommodate the people of the trade area. Approximately 14 years ago, they opened the basement of their structure which now houses mens and boys clothing. Continuing with their expansion 1? years ago, Orth's purchased the building formerly occupied by Western Auto and put in a complete fabric department. Helmuth and Francis originally opened as a Skogmos store 28 years ago. After being in business for approximately three years, they decided they could offer their customers a better line of merchandise at low prices by going independent. Their son, Dennis, joined the business 18 years ago. The Orth's moved to Burlington from St. Francis, Kansas 28 years ago with little clothing experience. Their operation now requires that they spend about 25 days a year doing nothing but attending various markets and purchasing merchandise for their customers. In a joint statement, the family said, "We certainly do appreciate the excellent response of all of the many people of our trade area. We have strived to give the people a complete department store that stresses quality merchandise at reasonable prices. In addition, we have made our store a'complete �family store where you can purchase all of your family's needs'in one facility." Helmuth continued, "We will attempt to give the people an even better department store over the next 20 Years." by Dennis Orth K-G ELECTRIC HATCHERY B26 The K-G Electric Hatchery, was a compar- atively new enterprise, having opened for business in February of 1930. The plant was modern in every detail, with Buckeye incubators. brooders and other requirements. They had a capacity for 50,000 chicks. A specialty was made of purebred stock and their aim was to raise bigger, stronger and better, grades of chicks at moderate prices. The Hatchery also carried a complete line of poultry supplies, with Purina Chow being the best. This business was run and managed by Mr. C.G. Gould. FLAGLER NEWS B27 the competing newspaper' The Flagler Progress, in 1918 and merged it with the News. The Borland's sold The News in 1923 to Philo F. Falb who published the paper until 1927, when the Borlands bought it back. They continued to publish it until 1931, when they sold it to T. and Grace Gaurd of Breckenridge. Mr. Gaurd had published the Summit County Journal and Mrs. Gaurd had taught school. After selling the Flagler News, Will Borland became a clerk in the Flagler Post Office and was active in the Democratic politics in the county. The Gaurds published The News until 1948 when they sold it to Clyde and Ruth Coulter, who came to Flagler after working on newspapers in the Chicago area. The Coulters are continuing to publish the paper in this their 40th year. The Gaurds relocated The Flagler News office twice, first in the its 75th year of publication. Flagler News files date back only to 1915 but it is believed the newspaper was started in 1913 as a Democratic paper to compete for legal publications with the existing weekly paper, the Republican Flagler Progress, a primary source of revenue for early newspapers was pubtishing legal notices regarding homesteads and it is probable that the News was founded to get a share of those legal notices. Founder and first publisher was E.H. Kruchten. He published the paper for a year and sold it to J.D. Heiny, who sold it to H.E.Wetherell, who operated it until 1915' when Will and Sarah Borland. Mr. Borland had worked as a printer in Brush while proving up on a homestead located south of Brush. (Will and Sarah Borland were the parents of Hal Borland, who graduated from Flagler High School in 1918 and became a nationally known journalist, columnist, and author. He is particularly known for his nature writings.) The Borlands purchased BATT REALTY B29 the newly built "Theatre Building" now occupied by the Witts Family Store. In about 1940 The Gaurds constructed the present building being occupied by The News and moved there. They also developed one of the most modern small town newspaper plants in the area. In 1938, they installed a photo engraving plant. After World War II, they put in a new Model 31 Linotype and a rebuilt 4- page Miehle newspaper press. The Coulters recently donated the press to the Old Town Museum in Burlington, where it can be seen in operation. The linotype is still being used for commercial purposes in the News office. New technology in recent years has revolutionized the printing of newspapers. Instead of hand set type and "hot metal" linotypes, newspapers now use "cold type" computers phed and printed on "offset" presses at a central printing plant. The Flagler News is now being prepared in Flagler but the actual printing is done at the Burlington Record. A second weekly newspaper, The Flagler Progtess, was published in the community from about 1908 until 1918, when it was The town of Flagler will be celebrating its 100th year anniversary in 1988 and its weekly newspaper, the Flagler News, will be marking 1920's. early 1930's from the basement of the "Bank Building" (now the "Otteman Building") to to set type. Pages are "pasted up", photogra- Flagler News, building constructed in 1940 by T. Guard. Burlington Ice and Bottling Co. (foreground) in published by the Will Borlands. There are no file copies of The Progress available in the community except for a few copies which have been saved by families of early residents. It is believed to have been founded and published by Charles E. Gibson. Its office was in the original Odd Fellows Building, on the south side of the building. BURLINGTON ICE AND BOTTLING CO. 828 Batt Realty dealt in real estate and oil leasing. This real estate office actually originated as Rose and Wall by Claus Rose, Jr. and Charles S. Wall. The office was in the old building owned by the Stratton State Bank, North 20 feet of lot 7, block 7, original Stratton. These two men purchased the building on August 19, L942. Claus Rose was elected County Treasurer and moved to Burlington. Charles Wall operated the real estate office from that time until it was sold to George Batt on September 9, 1946. George Batt immediately went into business with Swidbert A. Hornung, who purchased the building from George Batt on August 21,L952. "Swede" Hornung operated the business until his death on January 16, 1970. "Swede" was responsible for the influx of families from the Dodge City - Spearville, Kansas, area who still live in the Stratton area. Some of these families are: Cures, Downey, Bill Hornung, Schulte, Conrardy, Stegman, Torline, Grasser, Rueb, Kliesen, Pottorff, Shean, Warner, Dvorak, etc. Swede was a community-minded man and was into many projects, such as REA, the Stratton School relocation to the present site, the building of the present Catholic Church, the Post Office. He was an eternal optimist and a great believer in the future of the Stratton area among other things. The Burlington Ice and Bottling Company' was an institution that had a broad and steady growth from the date of its inception. The ice plant was established in 1922. It had an icemaking capacity of six tons evety 24 hours. The bottling plant was added in 1925' it was devoted to the manufacture of a full line of high grade soda waters, including all popular flavors, one of their specialties being lcal-Aid", (an orange drink). They were also the distributors of Hamm's, and Windsor Club Beer and Oxford CIub Ginger AIe. H.A. Keese, was the proprietor. by Edith Hornung �VANCE'S DECORATING CENTER crockery, variety goods, paints, oils and couNTY, P.C. B30 In June of 1983, Dennis and Dianne Vance decided to open a new business in Burlington, Colorado. Dennis had been a carpet installer and painter for 20 years. Dianne is a hairdresser by trade, but shared an interest with her husband to start a new business, thus Vance's was begun. From June 1983, to March 1985 the business was located at l46t Senter in Burlington. In this store the Vance's carried a line of unfinished furniture, carpet, and a unique gift section. In October of 1984 the Vance's added the Cook Paint line to their store. They remained at L46l Senter until March 1985. Even though these were stressed economical times, the Vance's had done fairlv well in their little store and decided to makl a move to a larger building, in a new location. They moved to 314 14th Street which many years ago was the old Red Front Grocerv Store. Shortly before Vance's moved to this location it was a T.V. repair store. The new business location was leased from John Penny. At the time of the move the name of the store was changed to Vance's Decorating Center. Moving from a very small location, to one almost double in size, Dennis and Dianne had room for expansion. From March 1985 to the present date, Sept. 198?, they are a full Iine decorating center. They carry in their store, Cook Paint, floor coverings, wallpaper, PANGBORN'S PHARMACY, PHOTO AND SOUND CENTER, INC. B32 Pangborn's Pharmacy was founded February 4, 1966, by Bill and Penny Pangborn at 347 - l4th Street, Burlington, Colorado. It began as a family business and remained one. Bill was the pharmacist and Penny helped with the clerking, was the bookkeeper, and managed the office. In 1975, following college graduation, their son, Tom, returned to Burlington and expanded the electronic section into a full service Sound Center/Radio Shack. Bill incorporated his hobby of photography into the business and "Pangborn's Pharmacy", Photo and Sound Center, Inc. was born. The business prospered and on April 1, 1987, twenty-one years after it began, the store was sold. by Mr. and Mrs. Bill Pangborn Times are still not as flourishing as everyone would like, but the Vance's have managed to keep the business going, trying to please the public with their merchandise and their services. by Dennis and Dianne Vance VARIETY GOODS STORES IN 83r C.J. Copeland was located on Main Street. He had been established here eight and onehalfyears in 1929, and carried a well selected stock of variety goods. Goods of every kind including hundreds of articles that were both useful and ornamental, such as crockery, glassware, tinware, china, kitchen utensils. books, stationery, toilet articles, school supplies, radios, stoves, and ranges. Prominent among the number of business enterprises of Burlington was Ed. Purinton, whose neatly arranged store on Main Street was well stocked and well arranged. Mr. Purinton had been connected with the commercial life of Burlington for six years in 1929. The stock he carried comprised of furniture, rugs, linoleums, stoves, ranges, household necessities, kitchen utensils, Certified Public Accountants The business had its start in 1g6? when Larry Mich and John Lindell bought the tax practice of Bob Shamberg. The Burlington Record printed a story regarding the purchase and establishment of a new busineis to be operated under the name of Mich and Lindell, CPAs. The newspaper article indicated that Larry Mich would come down from Wray two days a week to manage the office initially but that the plans were to hire a full time accountant to man the office. I became a Certified Public Accountant in 1965 and at the time the article appeared in the Record I was employed by the U.S. General Accounting Office as an Auditor. That job required a great deal of travel so I was looking for a position with little or no travel. Burlington was my hometown so when I saw the article indicating that an accounting position was open I was very interested. I met with Larry Mich and, after some soul searching about the job and salary, accepted the position as office manager for Michand Lindell, CPAs. Our business then was much the same as nesses. 833 home. B34 it is today only not quite so complicated. We prepared tax returns, did bookkeeping and performed audits of a few towns and busi- STRATTON SPOTLIGHT NEWSPAPER window treatments, and custom draperies. Dennis still does his own carpet installation. The gift line is not as big now, and they carry mainly decorating accessory items for the BURLINGTON WINFREY AND varnishes. Home of the Golden Plains Insurance and Stratton Spotlight. The Stratton Spotlight, Stratton's weekly newspaper, began business on November 2b, 1982. Rick and Beverly Gaddy along with their son Travis moved to Stratton from Simla, Colorado to publish the new newspaper following the termination of the Stratton Press, which ceased publication on November 11, 1982. The Gaddy's attempted to purchase the Stratton Press, but decided a new publication would best serve the Strat- ton community. The Stratton Spotlight is located at L25 Colorado Avenue in the building owned by Ken and Pat Stegman, who operate Golden Plains Insurance from the same location. by Bev Gaddy In July 1969, Larry Mich bought out Mr. Lindell's interest and I bought into the business. The name of the business was changed to Mich and Winfrey, CPA's. The business was located at I4b7 Martin Ave. which is the office building across the street South of the Post Office. We occupied two rooms in the middle of the building. In 1980 Jerry County came to work for us. He became a CPA in 1981 and in December of that year he became a partner with me. We gllanged the name to Winfrey and County CPA's. In 1982 we formed a professional corporation to be known as Winfrev and County, P.C. Certified Public Accountants which is how we operate today. During the years we have expanded our business by buying other practices. In September 1980 we bought a practice with offices in Limon and Cheyenne Wells. Mr. James White became associated with me and he managed the Limon and Cheyenne Wells offices. Then in June 1981 we bought a practice in Flagler. We closed the office in Cheyenne Wells and moved everything to Flagler. We bought another practice in Hugo and combined that into the Limon office.- In July 1983, Jim White left us and we brought all three offices together under the Winfrey and County name with employees managing the Flagler and Limon offices. On December 1, 1985 we moved our office to 593 - 14th St (the old Esch Lumber Co. building). This move gave us much more room for expansion in the future. Our work continues to be primarily the preparation of income tax returns for people in the area. We also do bookkeeping and perform audits ofvarious schools, towns, and businesses around the area. In the future we plan and hope to continue �to serve the people in the area with the same services as we have provided in the past. the local manager was Dick Hendricks of by Noel Winfrey North 14th (Main) Street. This firm made a specialty of the popular Seiberling Special STRATTON SALE BARN 835 Burlington. The Gassner Tire Shop was located on Service Tires and tubes. Seiberling tires were sold with a one year guarantee. They also did steam vulcanizing, dealt in batteries, furnished tire service, and did car washing greasing. As of 1929, the business had been established ten or eleven years and had been under the ownership of R.I. Gassner for three years. Zimbelman's sponsor a soft ball team and is a member of the Burlington Chamber of Commerce. by Calvin Zimbelman FLAGLER MILLINERY SHOP 838 The Flagler Millinery Shop was owned and ZIMBELMAN'S JEWELRY STORE 837 Calvin Zimbelman opened his business "Zimbelman's Jewelry" on June 17, 1960 on 14th Street in Burlington, Colorado. He located in the building south of the Midway Theater where Willies Flower Shoppe is located now. In 1964 Calvin with the help of family and operated by Bertha (Biggs) Nourse, the widow of Frederick Ray Nourse, Jr. He was the sister of Maude Williams, wife of Ellis Williams, son of Andrew and Alma Williams. The picture was taken in the twenties. Treva Williams, the daughter of Maude and Ellis, said she made beautiful hats. Treva graduated from Loretta Heights Academy in L922. While attending school there, she said her hats, made by Aunt Bertha, were the envy of many. by Margaret Clark friends built his present building with a lovely show room to display beautifuljewelry, distinctive gift ware, dishes and silver, watches and many other items. Robbie Lehnherr designed the building and Albert Zimbelman and Mr. Krien layed the blocks Stratton Sale Barn in the 1950's and bricks. Albert and Elmer Zimbelman helped finish the construction of the building. Calvin and family all helped to do the STRATTON SALE BARN finish work. In 1964 Zimbelman's Jewelry was robbed with $10.000 worth of merchandise stolen. Stratton Sale Barn Letterhead The Stratton Sale Barn, Iocated across the railroad tracks north, was owned, operated and built by Swede Horning and Lloyd Pugh. The Sale Barn was Iater sold to Bill Peters who operated the market for several years and closed it in 1955, due to the drought and low cattle numbers. Bill and Jean Scheopner bought the mar- HEINZ OFFICE SUPPLY, INC. 839 Melvin J. Heinz, and wife Frances, owners of Heinz Office Supply, Inc., founded the business in 1958, during a time when farming was poor and he needed another income to support his family. He wanted to create a The crime still remains unsolved and none of the items that were taken were recovered. There were no clues to be found and the crime was investigated by Roy Doughty. Calvin moved into the new place of business 1964. Employees over the years have been Maxine Andrews who worked here for 23 years and Cindy Kemp has been here for the cities. Melvin had, at one time, been a salesman for Monroe Calculator Co. in Wichita, KS, so he was familiar with the office supply business. He started out with a small shop in his 8 years. garage in Cheyenne Wells, Co. Melvin and his business that would enable his children to work and remain a part of the rural community, instead of having to find employment in ket from Bill Peters and had their first sale May 8, 1956. They operated the Stratton Sale Barn until April, 1968. Some of the employees who worked at the market for several ye€us were: Peter Schlichenmeyer, auctioneer; Kenny Scheierman, clerk, Mabel Scheiei.rnan, bookkeeper, Herschel Salmans, weighmaster, LeRoy Herndon Foreman. Others known to have worked at the sale were: Jim McConnell, Boots Wilson, and James Havens. Calista Swogger operated the cafe. f,* by Bill Scheopner TIRE SHOPS 836 "Keeping pace with the progress of the community" was the motto of the Hendricks Tire Shop, located on Main Street in Burlington. The business was established in June, 1927, and featured the well known Diamond tires. The general manager of this business was S.E. Hendricks of Denver. while lt i:'j'ii i,i** ":.;,,"iutif and Lyle Garner, ringmen, Chuck Fox, The Flagler Millinery Shop in the 1920's. �ity through the years. We will continue to try to serve them in the best way we can. by Kathy Killian OLD GRAIN COMPANIES IN BURLINGTON Heinz Office Supply, Inc. HAROLD McARTHUR APPRECIATION DAY B4l 840 "With a view to faithfully portraying the present development of Burlington, and in order to fully set forth the advantages with which our community is so richly endowed, we may be permitted to call special attention to the character and magnitude of a few representative concerns. In this connection it is fitting that we devote some space to the Swenson-Tooker Grain Company, which was established over three or four years ago in 1929." This advertising promoted Burlington. This firm was located a short distance east of the depot on the Rock Island tracks. They were wholesale and retail dealers in grain, feed and coal. They also had an elevator at Peconic, six miles east of Burlington. The Melvin J. Heinz and Jerry Heinz son, Jerry Heinz, sold typewriters, calculators and a small line of office supplies. They also repaired and served the machines they sold. They serviced most of the typewriters for the schools in the area. As the business grew, and Jerry finished his schooling, they decided to move the business to Burlington, CO in 1963. They started in a small store shared with another business in Burlington and eventually moved into a rented building on main street, and finally purchased a building on main street, where the store is presently located. Jerry Heinz managed the store until 1983, at which time Kathy (Heinz) Killian, daughter of Melvin Heinz, took over management. Kathy has been working for the business since 1973. Olympia, Royal, Underwood, Victor and Sharp are some of the main brands of machines sold and serviced by Heinz Office Supply over the past 30 years. After the move to Burlington in 1963, office furniture was added to the line, both new and used. In 1973, Melvin started another store in Goodland, KS. His daughter Sharon and her husband Mike Houk operated that store for him until 1983, when they purchased the store from him, and now they own and operate it. Between the two stores, Heinz Office Supply, Inc. has supplied employment for the support of 8 to 10 farnilies at a time in this area. In 1982, Melvin started his own leasing company, called Big H Leasing Co. He leases office equipment and furniture in Colorado and Kansas. The customers of Heinz Office Supply over the years have been from many communities in Kit Carson, Cheyenne and Lincoln Counties. They are greatly appreciated and have been responsible for our growth and prosper- business was under the management of R.V. Tooker. The Burlington Equity Exchange Company had an implement department and an elevator department. The implement dept. was located opposite the City Hall, on North 14th Street, and the elevator being located on North Main Street, near the depot. The organization came into being back in 1915. The two special lines of equipment featured at the implement dept. were: Massey-Harris and Minneapolis-Moline, with this department being managed by R.A. Hedding. The elevator dept. was devoted to the buying of grain and the sale of flour, commercial feed, bran, shorts, fence wire and posts, steem and domestic coal, all kinds of grain, seeds and salt. This dept. was under the management of D.H. Loomis. Very prominent among the grain dealers of eastern Colorado was the Roller Grain Company, located on the Rock Island tracks east of the depot. It was founded in about 1922 ot 1923. Their principal business was the buying and selling of grain, although they handled flour, feed and salt as a side line. The Roller Grain Company was managed bv C.E. Roller. The O'Donnell Grain Company, which was organized in July, 1927 was located just east of the depot on the tracks of the C.R.I.&P. Railway. F.J. O'Donnell was the manager. The O'Donnell Grain Co. dealt in the wholesale and retail sales of grain, livestock, flour, Forrest Miller as he presented Harold with his plaque citing him for his many "outstanding contributions for the city, county and the entire area." Forrest was the prime organizer for Harold McArthur Appreciation Day. Saturday, January 24, L981, was a very special day for a man who has devoted most it was Harold of his life to helping others McArthur Appreciation Day.- Harold and his wife, Ines, moved to Burlington from Flagler in 1945. There he was operating a John Deere dealership before assuming ownership of the one in Burlington which he purchased from Jack Chalfant. He also kept the Flagler facility open for a short time. The business was operated for many years where the City Hall is now located. In 1964 Harold moved to 2181 Rose Ave. and became one of the largest independent John Deere dealers in the United States. In 1984 he moved to his present location at 17777 Hwy. 385. This was accomplished by becoming a service center, a parts center, and a new farm equipment center for an area encompassing a radius of 100 miles. He has always kept up with the latest technology, and he has also helped several and feed. They also manufactured high grade feed. A few of their special lines were Purina Chows for livestock, hogs, and poultry, and other dealers in the area get started by providing them with financial assistance. One might think that accomplishing such Pure GoId Flour. a task would take all of one individual's time. Not so with Harold McArthur. He was mayor of Burlington for 12 years, has been on the Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital board for 25 years. Harold is an original member of the Board of Directors of the First National Bank of Burlington, is on the Board of Directors of the Colorado Boys Ranch, and an original member of the East Central Activities Center, now known as Dynamic Dimensions, and the list could go on and on. �Harold has helped many young farmers get started by loaning them equipment and money, and offering advice when asked for. As Jerry Brenner says, "I thought I knew a lot about farming when I took over the farm, but it didn't take me long to realize I needed a lot of help. Harold was always ready to help, not only myself, but all of the farmers". He has proven over the years that he is never too busy to help, no matter how large or small the task, such as helping someone who needs a fork lift to unload a truck or a railroad car. Kermit Buol, representing the Burlington Rotary Club, expressed the Club's gratitude for being an outstanding member. Carol Dvorak, representing the Board of Directors of the East Central Activities Center, expressed his gratitude to Harold for his generous assistance in making the center a reality. Not only giving money to the center, but by his personal presence on the board. Ted Wickham said, "I have been told several times that we would not have a hospital if it were not for Harold McArthur." Russ Wilcox also said, "He has donated a lot of the 'long green line' to the hospital, and I don't mean John Deere farm machinery. He has given thousands of dollars to the hospital over the years." Now it is six years Iater and we still find Harold contributing in many ways to the betterment of this community through con- tributions of the building for the Senior Citizens Center in Burlington and in helping the town get "Old Town" off to a great start. As long as he is able, we will see the imprint of Harold wherever there is a need. January 9, 1988 - Harold McArthur honored for being John Deere Dealer for 50 years. Last Saturday, January 9th, was a special day for the people of the area and for McArthur Implement Co. of Burlington. Saturday was the annual John Deere Day, and it also marked the 50th Anniversary of Harold McArthur being a John Deere Dealer. Harold was informed that he was the only dealer in the Kansas City division of Deere and Company (and quite possibly in the United Stated) that had been affiliated with them for 50 continuous years. "There are several dealerships that still retain the same name; however, none where the contract with Deere and Company was with the same man for 50 years," stated a spokesperson. Over 1000 people attended the free lunch provided by McArthur Implement Co. It was followed by a joint program (John Deere Day and recognition of McArthur). A crowd in excess of 700 filled the Burlington High School auditorium. McArthur expressed his gratitude to the firm's many customers over the years. "Without you (the customers) we certainly would not be here. We have appreciated your fine support over the past 50 years." Harold started as a John Deere dealer in 1938 in Flagler. His first location was where the present Case-IH dealership is located. He then moved to where the John Deere dealer in Flagler is now located. Harold moved his dealership to Burlington in 1945. The firm was located at 480 - 15th St., which is now serving as city hall for Burlington. The firm then moved to Rose Avenue in 1964 at the corner of Rose and Lincoln. In 1982, McArthur Implement Co. moved to its present location. Over the 50 years, McArthur has continued to expand, providing additional services for farmers over a wide area. Without question, Saturday was a very special day for McArthur. He has been affiliated with John Deere for one-third of the years the company has been in existence as Deere and Company celebrated its L50th anniversaryjust last year . . . The Burlington Record, Jan. 14, 1988. by Marlyn Hasart SNELL GRAIN CO. B'42 J.W. Borders began buying grain in 1910 in the days when horse and wagons were used to haul the golden berry and employees were paid one cent per bushel for hauling wheat coal an automatic fuel and which reduced to % the cost of coal in a home or business house. The Iron Fireman is also especially adapted for schools, churches, and public buildings. This business was originally established about 30 years ago in 1929 and had been under the present ownership about 10 years. John J. Esch was the president and manager, of this local enterprise. THE BANK OF BURLINGTON B'44 from the grain bins and loading it into boxcars for shipping. Borders was a buyer with the Snell Milling Co., Clay Center, Ks. for a period of approximately 10 years. The elevator at Stratton was built in 1912 and later one at Vona and then one at Flagler. In about 1926, The Snell Milling Co. decided to go out of business and the Snell Grain Co. of Colorado was organized and purchased the interests of The Snell Milling Co., in its Colorado elevators at Stratton, Vona, Flagler, and Arriba. Mr. Hillenkamp passed away around 1944, and at that time Floyd Borders, H.C. Harrison, and J.W.'s son-in-law of Arriba, then became active owners in the grain firm. The firm then purchased the two elevators at Hugo, which had been idle for a few years time. At this point, Ugene G. Brown and Richard Borders became active members of the firm. In 1954, the concrete elevator at Arriba was enlarged and a modern concrete elevator was built at Genoa and the Snell Grain Co. took over the three small frame elevators at that time. Bank of Burlington, 1930's. Mr. Borders had noted many changes during his 50 years of active management. New modern mechanized machinery has taken the place of the horse and buggy. OLD LUMBER COMPANIES IN BURLINGTON Bank of Burlington, 1956. 843 The Foster Lumber Company's yards and sheds cover about a half of a city block in Burlington. The Stock comprises of lumber, shingles, roofing, sash, doors, windows, brick, lime, cement, plaster, sewer pipe, drain tile, paints, oil, glass and anything necessary to build a house. The Burlington yard was managed by P.L. Bruner. The main headquarters were maintained in Kansas City, with yards in Kansas, Eastern Co., Oklahoma, and Wyoming. The Esch Lumber Company Inc. was located on 14th Street, opposite the City Hall. The stock in addition to lumber for buildings also carried fence posts and fencing wire. They had the exclusive agency in Kit Carson, Lincoln, and Cheyenne counties for the lron Fireman, the machine that made Bank of Burlington, 1988. The progress of the Burlington community and the success of The Bank of Burlington have moved forward together for 56 years come December 5, 1987. Eventful years, through bad times and the good, have taken place since the fall of 1931 when there were no banking facilities in Burlington. Realizing the need for such a service, George D. Tubbs, H.W. Gleason and his father, John E. Gleason, Benjamin B. Foster, George W. Foster, John M. Foster, Mrs. Anna Foster Ford, together with local �businessmen Orin Penny, P.L. Bruner, J.D. Brown, Ned R. Brown, E.L. Weinandt and John S. Boggs, organized and opened the bank at its present location. General conditions were not encouraging in the thirties, and the beginning was very modest, but by careful management and following of conservative banking principles, the bank has shown a steady growth. On opening day, its total assets were approximately $93,000. Thirteen years later it was $1,500,000. On December 5, 1956, when the bank celebrated its 25th anniversary, its assets were $2,800,000 and on its 50th anniversary they were $22,000,000 and are presently over $25,000,000. Following the death of H.W. Gleason in January, 1983 the bank was sold to Gary Brooks who became president and Leo Van Dittie who became chairman of the board. Mr. Brooks and Leo Van Dittie, along with his brother Jim. became directors of the bank, replacing 3 members of the Tubbs family. The Brooks and Van Dittie families are well known in Colorado Banking circles. The efforts to provide a safe and sound banking service to the people of this territory have been accomplished by the loyal support and friendship of the people of our community. This patronage is deeply appreciated by every officer, director and employee. From depression years, through cycles of good times and difficult times, the bank has kept its steady gain. With the rapid changes 1940, John Ellis, who was then serving as assistant cashier. was elevated to cashier of in agriculture, the money needs of both farmers and businessmen have increased the bank. He held this position until 1943 when he entered the military service, along with assistant cashier Bob Montgomery. At this time, L.L. Reinecker joined the bank as cashier and in 1949 was named executive vice immensely and the bank has strived to meet these needs. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all those who have made The Bank of Burlington what it is today, and the officers and personnel president. George D. Tubbs, Jr., was elected president following the death of his father in look to the future with confidence and high resolve to continue to serve this community to the best of their abilitv. 1949. The Bank of Burlington has been in the same location for 50 years. It started out in the building that was the quarters of the former Stockgrowers Bank. In 1950 the building was remodeled inside and out and expanded in size. Its present building is now considered one of the most modern and beautiful buildings in Burlington. Consider- gasoline pump. His was the first pump in town. His first six week's business was a total of 50 gallons of kerosene. But Ray, the young man with a vision and the forward look, had gotten on the right track. From the single team and rattling wagon, he progressed. He added a few barrels to the cream cans. Then a tank wagon drawn by horses, of which he now had a dozen or more. Next came a truck with a tank, a somewhat crude affair minus a top to the cab, but it served. From the modest beginning has evolved the widespread business located in Vona since 1925, with the most modern tank trucks, a well equipped office, with branch offices in Kirk, Joes, and Cope. From that a 8-gallon-per week record he has gone to one-half million gallons in one year. He now takes the route to Kirk, Joes, and Cope in 2% hours where in the horse-drawn days it took 4 days. He built the tanks used by White Eagle and Conoco in Seibert. and took the first load of gas to Joes, Kirk and Cope. Mr. Ray A. Roberts married Leona Bell, daughter of early settler, Stephen Bell. They have two children, a son Lloyd and a by Willard Gross daughter. Ray is the son of George Roberts who came, with his wife and two sons, from Missouri to Colorado in 1908. They homesteaded four miles south of Seibert. Lloyd is in partnership with his father. RAY A. ROBERTS AND by Janice Salmans SON OIL CO. able new modern equipment has been added so that the bank can better serve its custom- B'45 ers. The bank is proud of its past and present employees, most who served for many years. Leland Reinecker served the bank as execu- STRATTON HEALTH CENTER B'46 tive officer for 38 years. He retired in January, 1981 and the following June was awarded a 50 year plaque from the Colorado Bankers Association for his 50 years of service to banking. He continues to serve on the board of directors, a position he has held for over 44 yearc. Willard Gross joined the bank as assistant cashier in June 1945. was named cashier in 1949, and executive vice president in January 1981, a position which he presently holds. He also has been a director of the bank for 42 Ray Roberts Oil Co., Seibert location. years. "Bud" Boyles, became associated with the bank in 1965 and was elected vice president and cashier in 1981, a position he Stratton's health care facilitv held until his retirement in January, 1986. Irene Wilcox served as assistant cashier for nearly 28 years, until her semi-retirement in January, 1981, and then continued as a parttime employee until March, 1987. Jerry L. Gross, son of Willard Gross, joined the bank in June, 1981 as assistant cashier Doctor Richard D. Ramos, Denver born, doctor of Chiropractic, came to Stratton in January 1956. Until this writing, he has practiced in Stratton continuously for thirtytwo years. He married Lolita Klotzbach, a Stratton born lady. They had five boys, and was named vice president and cashier in January, 1986. Other officers are Connie Witzel, assistant cashier with 31 years of service, Carol Zimbelman, assistant cashier, 14 years, and Rick Haynes, assistant vice president and ag loan officer, about 2 years. Other faithful employees are Margaret Smith, 19 years, Margie Mersch, 16 years, Mary Sue Woodrick, 8 years, and Carol Lucas, 6 years. Newer employees are Charlene Flock, David Carter, Tara Duerst and Fae Mehling. John and Gene Penny have served as directors of the bank for over 25 years. George D. Tubbs, Jr. was the bank's nresident and director for 34 vears. In Ray Roberts Oil Co., Vona location. Back in 1912 there were not many automobiles in Seibert, Colo. People had not begun to think much about them. "Filling stations" were hardly known. But a young fellow with 'more imagination than sense', some said, got the idea that after all, the horseless buggy might grow. So he decided to go in the business of furnishing fuel for motors. His first "equipment" was a team, some milk cans. and finallv an old Howser "blind" Richard, Michael, James, Ronald, and Daniel. Dr. Ramos also had two children from a previous marriage, Randlyn and Donald. Dr. Ramos started practice in the old Collins Hotel. Then he bought the old bank building on Colorado Avenue and practiced there for 16 years. At present he owns and operates the Stratton Health Center (pictured) which houses Dr. Cockerham D.D.S., Dr. Ramos, D.C., and Dr. Warwick, M.D. This health care facility is rare for a small rural community. For thirty years Dr. Ramos was the only doctor in town and provided much of the Drimarv care for the communitv. When asked �by big city colleagues why he would stay in a small community where there are no recreational facilities, he pointed out that "There are a lot of things Stratton doesn't have: smog, traffic problems, drugs in our schools, and crime on our streets." UNITED FARMERS MARKETING CORP.N' by Donna llake THE COLLINS HOTEL by Dr. Richard D. Ramos LTZ'S LITTLE BIT the ornamental concrete, other landscaping items will be offered in the future. B50 It was "the best hotel between Kansas City and Denver," wrote on local historian. Its beautiful landscaping, its fountains and its spacious accommodations attracted famous world travelers and local cowboys alike. It was the Collins Hotel, in Stratton, B'47 Colorado. The hotel was named after its builder and first owner, Joe Collins, an early day, Eastern Colorado "mover and shaker" who learned at The facilities of United Farmers Marketing Corp. west of Burlington. United Farmers Marketing Corporation is wholly owned and operated by dry bean growers in eastern Colorado. After several months of organizational meetings and Liz's Little Bit, near I-70, Stratton To begin with, I began by researching convenience stores over the country. The thought of building a convenience store, with the selling of gas, was taking shape in my mind. Then I drew up plans as to what would be suitable. but the location was another thing. I contacted our local banker and talked with others to find property available in the area near I-70. I found it was not as easy as I had thought it might be, but the proper place was found and purchased. Then the ground work began: upgrading and leveling done, the gas tanks were put in, followed by water and sewer lines. Then the concrete was poured for the foundation and floor. The building was purchased and it took about a month to arrive. While the building was being put up, the work went on measuring for gas Iines from tanks.to dispenser, getting the pumps in before the weather got too cold and bad; the island around the dispensers was poured with concrete. Then the weather began to get pretty cold and bad. So we were delayed in getting to finish all concrete work, but between snows it did get done in February. Inside work was being done and in the searching for finance, UFMC was established in October L7 ,t978. Through the sale of stock to bean producers in Yuma and Kit Carson counties and a construction loan from the First National Bank at Burlington, guaranteed by the Small Business Administration, enough funds were obtained to start con- struction in April of 1979. During that same year UMFC handles approximately 60,000 cwt. The corporation has grown steadily in both storage capacity and processing ability Collins and some of his brothers homesteaded in Colorado. Making good in horses and cattle, Collins went into the hardware business, and selling that, he began dealing in real estate as a specialty. In 1917, he bought out the Square Deal Lumber Co., and in its place Joe Collins built the Collins Hotel. According to Dessie Reeves-Cassity, "He hired a landscape gar- dener to landscape the surroundings created a sunken garden set out beautiful flowers, kept a professional caretaker and made it the show place of both Kansas and Colorado." Nor did he scrimp on the interior; the linoleum was brought from England. There was hot and cold water, and all electric lights. The hotel was big. It had 104 doors with by Gay Cure numbers on them, but only 80 were 9x12 bedrooms. The rest were chutes and closets. The hotel boasted three public bathrooms, THE LEISURE GARDEN B49 and two of the rooms had bathrooms, as well. The halls were 10 feet wide. In the attic, space was sold to cowboys who wanted a spot to roll out their bedrolls. For 75 cents a night, cowboys could rent curtained cubicles, and one retired cattleman, Lloyd Pugh, recalls "some real parties" in that attic. When the hotel sold in 1966 the wires which held the curtains were still there. In the east wing was a large dining room, which could seat 72 persons, and a smaller cafe with 18 stools and two tables. Meals were cooked on coal stoves. The cooks were particularly busy packing lunches when the waiting to be brought down from Denver and installed. We opened the 26th day of April, 1980. In early June the black top went in, after a very moist winter. Other restrooms were added in July. Diesel has been another product that has been added plus the making of a rest room back of our lot. Thus you have by Liz Coulter would lead to success. A Wisconsin Native, Collins bought and sold his first farm - for a profit - at the age of seventeen. Fifteen years later, in 1906, and in 1986 - 305,000 cwt were received and processed, making it the largest single Pinto Bean facility in the country. meantime all equipment for the store was the history of Liz's Little Bit. a tender age that buying and selling land survey crew (working on Highway 24) stayed at the hotel. Loretta (Pelle) Ehlers, a former waitress and cook in the hotel, said a T-bone steak dinner sold for 60 cents, in the 1930's, The Leisure Garden, one of Stratton's newest businesses The Leisure Garden was opened in Nov. 1986 by Jim and Donna Hake. Its primary and the luncheon special usually went for around 45 cents. A cheap lunch, including roast beef, potatoes and gravy, vegetable, coffee and a roll, could be purchased for a quarter. Mrs. Ehlers said about 35 drummers (salesmen) stayed at the hotel each week. While they all enjoyed the hospitality and the business is the retail sales of ornamental concrete to be used in decorating homes, comparative luxury, at least one salesman had cause for irritation. Mrs. Ehlers said a precasted and the painting and detail work is finished at the Leisure Garden. Over two hundred different items are available with new ones added periodically. In addition to ketchup - yards, and gardens. Items are purchased ketchup salesman arrived in the dining room one day, only to find some other brand of in his company's bottles! To appease the salesman, and keep him as a customer, the hotel removed the offending ketchup from the premises. �ETRATTON FIRE DEPART!@NT CONsTITUTION ARTICIJE t. Tltle and Object. SECTION l..-Thefe lr horeby croatcd o,n orgonlratlon wbtch rball be known oE "Stratton Flre D€partmcnt." SECTION 2.-- The object ol thla Dopartm€nt ghall be to creat and malntein I spirlt of frlendshlg and lraternal loellng b€twe€n ltE m€mbers; to meet and egsemble ln reSiular stated conventions. and tbere devlse wa,ys and m€aDs to lmprov€ the flre-flghtlng servlce; to combat and extinguish nres, end at ell tlmes to do tts utmost in the savlug ol property from destructloD, and the llvee of persons ondanger€d by flre. AII,TICIJE 3. Clagses ol Membershlp. SECTION 1.- The membershlp of thls bepartment shall conslsl of volunteerg clasaed as lollowe, vlz: "Active",. "Assooiate", "Honorary" Collins Hotel, the best hotel between Goodland, Kansas and Denver of Colorado Springs, Colorado. Among the famous names who registered and stayed at the Collins hotel were Babe Ruth and Jack Dempsey, Paul Harris (founder of the Rotary Club, from Chicago), Paul Whiteman, Marian Davies and Governor aud "Llfe" members. SECTION 2.- Actlve memberg sball be aselgined to duty with any flre equlpment by the Chlef ol th€ Flre DeDartmeDt, or by tbe Asststant Chlef ln the abeeuce of tbe Chtet. They shall be eutltled to vote ln ConYentlonB, and to hold olllce, SECTION 3.- Assoclate member8 shall be those who wlsh to Jol[ the DepBrtmeut lor th6 general good and ghall be subject tor th€ payment ol dues, but shsll not be entltled to vote In cotrventlons nor to hold ofilce. SECTION 4.- HoDorary memberrhlp may be attalned only lD recog- Johnson. Although there were a number of hotel managers, Joe Collins owned the hotel until he died in 1949. He continued to deal in real estate, however, and is credited with bringing many new residents to the area from across the nation. The hotel was willed to five heirs, upon Collins' death, and one of them, Frances Van Ness, bought out the interests of the other four. She and her sister Rose Huber, operated the hotel until Mrs. Van Ness died in 1965. Mrs. Huber and another sister, Isabel Ross, then sold the hotel to Harley and June Pottorff in 1966. The Pottorffs have remodeled the old hotel, now known as Twin Oaks. The 18,000 square feet of floor space received new Moon Theatre competes with today's high tech, remaining one of a few small town theaters. Stratton Fire Department Constitution, Feb. 4, calibre movies for the area. Stratton should be very appreciative of the fact that in this day of more theaters closing than remaining to fight the inroads of high technology and high costs that this small town still has a quality movie theater. Stratton Fire Department was organized in February 4, L924 according to the written constitution which gave membership in the Colorado State Firemen's Association. The carpeting, although the English linoleum was "still in good shape," and the walls received more than 100 gallons of new paint. The wide halls were converted to bathrooms. A portion is now used as the Stratton Senior Citizens Center. Since Collins died, the gardens and fountain have made way for a paved parking lot. STRATTON FIRE DEPARTMENT B52 The dining room and kitchen are no longer in use. But in a casual glance from across the street is still looks much as it did, 60 years ago. by Terry Blevins MOON THEATRE 86r After purchasing the Moon Theatre from E.J. and Betty Buhr, Melvin and Dorene Koonn had their first movie showing on June 3, 1977. For two years they commuted from their Denver home to open the movie each weekend. They now live in Stratton. Although this is a very trying period in time for the promoters of movies and theaters because of cable, satellites, and VCR inroads, the Koonns staunchly continue showing high 7924. equipment which consisted of two hose carts and twelve buckets were stored in the old town hall. An informal membership for each volunteer cost $10.00 for life. In 1926 a chemical truck was acquired. On December 29, L952, the Stratton Fire Protection District was formed and board members were named: Lloyd Pugh, president, and Ernest Pottorff, Lawrence Dasenbrock, G.L. Hatfield, and Joe Droste, the directors. In 1953 a new 500 gallon Ford pumper truck was purchased. The purchase of a 1949 Chewolet pumper truck from the Burlington Fire Department for 91.,250.00 on September 15, 1962, by the Stratton Fire Department provided a gift to give the city. In 1976 a new 1,000 gallon prtmper truck was bought. After construction of the new building to house the fire equipment, provide office space and an area for the am[ulanss service equipment, the move was made to that building in 1983, and in 1984 the department received a 2,000 gallon water truck. Present home of the Stratton Fire Protection District Headquarters. by Ron Wolfrum �KUKUK BLACKSMITII AND MACHINE SHOP 853 Modern equipment, scientific methods and efficient service were characteristic of the Kukuk Blacksmith and Machine Shop in Burlington. The business was first started by F.W. Kukuk back in 1913, and he operated it under his own name until 1921, at which time his brother bought an interest and took an active part in its operation. They were prepared to take care of any- thing in the way of blacksmithing, woodwork, machine work and acetylene gas welding. In the welding department they could weld anything made of metal, including articles from the size of a teaspoon to a heavy pump or engine cylinder. STRATTON DONUT SHOP B64 Stetson hats and Florsheim shoes. This business w{ut owned by Frank E. Koenig and Orville Swain was the manager. Originally Lloyds Clothing and Cleaning Shop, owners were Mac and Clara Lloyd. They were located in the north half of the building. Cecil Felzien purchased the cleaning shop and moved it to the Satin Petticoat location (1987 store). Mabel Davis and Les Sutton were employed by Mac Lloyd. Overalls were sold at $1.98 a pair. C.E. McCartney and J.J. McCune pur- chased the Men's Shop and Les Sutton was the manager. Employees were Doris Hawth- orne, Virgie Luecke, and Cleo Gipe. Later Mabel Davis joined the staff replacing Virgie Luecke. Levis were $3.98 a pair. In 1962, Robert E. and Bonnie Baker purchased 7s interest and Bob became the manager when Les Sutton moved to KLOE in Goodland, Ks. Cleo Gipe joined the Navy. Later David McCune joined the staff and eight years later moved to Arizona. Levis were $4.29 and a shirt was $4.00. In 1965, The Men's Shop purchased the J.C. Penny Store and doubled the size of the business and Bob Baker purchased C.E. McCartney's interest in the business. Later Lori Witzel joined the staff and married and moved to Tex. and her mother Barb Witzel replaced her. 1987, the present staff in the Men's Shop are Doris Hawthorne, Mabel Davis, Barb Witzel, and Bob and Bonnie Baker. Levis are nor $20.00 - $29.00 and shirts are $16.00 and $22.00. The Burlington Cleaners and Clothiers was situated on Main Street. This firm operated a thoroughly modern dry cleaning and pressing plant. They also carried a stock of men's clothing, furnishings, hats, caps, shoes and made suits to otder in the latest weaves in spring and summer woolens. This firm was established and managed by rad's, Jim Hake's and Dale Courtright's. With lot's of hard work and planning, we opened the door as a donut shop on Novem- necessities for a well-organized sale ring. Cressie Seal was the original initiator of the business and he and his wife Merna, assisted by Gladys and George Quinn and Frances Van Ness in the office, ran the establishment that had quite a reputation in the area. Leonard Beeson who worked there from 1934 to 1948 vividly recalls the many sales. Sometimes a miscellaneous sale preceded the regular cattle sale. Special horse and mule sales were common and these sometimes lasted until 2 a.m. Trucks were small in those days and it was the time when machinery pulled by tractors was taking the place of horse drawn machinery. Leonard recounted that his father sold 40 head of horses once at $f6.00 per/head. Auctioneers through the years were Claude Irwin and later the Peters Bill, Roy and Bud. At first Harley -Greenlee clerked the sales, but when he was unavailable Leonard Beeson was called into service from his work in the yards and did such a fine job that he became the sale clerk. In the mid-40's Bill Peters and Swede business the D&D Cleaners. In 1975, they purchased the Felzeins and moved to the new bunches as space allowed. In 1958, Dallas and Dean Stevens bought The Stratton Donut Shop opened November 4, 1980. The Stratton Press building was purchased early in 1980 by the Steve Con- self storage building. Hornung took over the sale barn and operated it until it closed in the early 1950's. It seems hard to visualize a large number of cattle or other animals right in town, but if the pens on either side of the building grew too crowded the overflow was taken to the railroad stock pens and driven back in small M.M. Lloyd. Stratton Donut Shop: a center of morning and afternoon gathering in Stratton "The Barn", Stratton's first sale barn site, now a the Jack The Cleaners and called the new location at 260 14th street. In 1987, the business has been going for 28 years. In 1929, the Golden Rule Dry Goods Today this historic site is a community storage rental establishment owned and managed by Joyce and Gene Clark. Company could be counted as a leader of its line. This firm was incorporated in 1912 and was moved to the city in 1919. This business was located in a brick building. It was ber 4, 1980. managed by Joseph Floyd. They dealt in dry In 1986 the Jim Hake's choose to leave this business to start their own. ery, men's and boy's clothing, and furnish- goods, notions, ladies' ready-to-wear, millin- COUNTRY CRAFTS AND GIFTS 867 ings, hats, caps, and shoes. by Irene Courtright The Eastern Colorado Cleaners was prepared to remove soiled spots and give the cloth that freshness and newness of new CLOTHING STORES IN BURLINGTON goods. The business was established January 20, 1930, by W.L. Willis, manager and he was ably assisted by his wife Mrs. Willis. B56 Koenig's store was modern in point of equipment and completely stocked with clothing, men's furnighings, hats, caps and shoes, in short they were "Outfitters from Lad to Dad". They carried one of the best selected stocks of its kind in eastern Colorado. Among the high grade lines featured by the concern might be mentioned Wilson Bros. Haberdashery, Hart, Schaffner and Marx and Kuppenheimer clothes, John B. STILL "TIIE BARN' 856 An interesting Stratton landmark is the building known today as "The Barn" on the south side of the post office on Colorado Avenue. It began in the early 1930's as a sale barn with an arena and scales, holding pens, and a snack shop with offices and all the ro Countrv Crafts and GifLs at Stratton �On October 17, 1987, Larry and Rhonda Shutte opened a new craft store in Stratton next to the Dischners Grocery called Country Crafts and Gifts. At the time this book was published it was one ofthe newest businesses in town. The Shuttes both enjoyed doing woodworking and various other crafts and with the growing interest of crafting in the surrounding area, they decided that it might be a good business for Stratton to have again. REAL ESTATE OFFICES B60 The installation of electrical comforts and The Bently Land Company, Iocated in the Winegar building, Burlington, was prepared to furnish interested parties with the most authentic information on all subjects pertaining to farm land in eastern Colorado, western Kansas, and Nebraska. The active head of the concern was Mr. C.B. Bently. Mr. F.E. Winegar, located on the ground floor of the Winegar building on North Main Street, had been engaged in business in this locality for the past 20 or 25 years, in 1929. He made a specialty of improved and unimproved farm and ranch lands in this part of the country. He also wrote insurance and surety bonds. necessities and the handling of supplies for this purpose was the line in which Guthries' Electric Shop was engaged. It was opened for business in Burlington on Jan. 1, 1930. They took care of anything pertaining to electrical construction or repair work and also carried a line of electrical appliances. A specialty was made of house wiring and the installation of any kind, from the smallest town lot to the by Rhonda Shutte Marion, "Emp", Carolyn (Mrs. Justin Williams), GUTHRIE'S ELECTRIC SHOP 858 complete electric light plants in country homes. The business was owned bv J.S. Guthrie. WILLIAMS PHARMACY and Lawrence, "Larry", Williams. 859 The rapid development and consequent increase of real estate transfers. fostered the need for a well equipped abstract plant. The Baker Abstract Company was situated on Main Street. Their records showed in whom the title to all real estate in Kit Carson county is vested, and the abstracts of real estate of Lawrence, "Larry", Williams Dr. Harry L. Williams purchased the Flagler Drug Company from a Dr. Charles Schroyer on November 28, 1906 with a payment of $50.00 on stock and fixtures when he and his family became snowbound in Flagler on their way from Denver to Illinois. (No record of Dr. Schroyer is available. His letterhead on the bill of sale lists him as Physician and Surgeon and Manager of the Flagler Drug Company.) The family moved into the building, dividing it into home, store and Dr.'s office. Jennie raised the boys, Marion, Justin and Lowell, managed the store when Dr. was out on calls and nursed patients. The first patient was brought into Dr.'s office one night by his friends. In addition to being drunk he was more dead than alive having ridden his horse through newly strung barbed wire fence. His recovery took three weeks. Marion, "Emp", graduated from the Denver University School of Pharmacy. He took over management of the new store, built in Williams Pharmacy, built in 1915 or 1917, at its either 1915 or L917, after having served in the present Flagler Iocation. Army. (Marion said the family home and new store were both built in 1915. However, the Assessor's Office shows the house built in 1915 and the store in 1917. In 1969 Marion received a certificate of recognition signed by Governor Love and members of the Colorado State Board of Pharmacy for having been a registered pharmacist in Colorado for 50 years. His The original drugstore purchased by Dr. H.L. Williams from Dr. Schroyer in 1906. registration number was 2518 and registration date was May 24, 1919. Marion's only son, Lawrence chose not returned from World War II and-'11411y", to return to Denver University where he had been studying Chemical Engineering. Instead he attended Capitol College of Pharmacy, and joined his father in business in 1947. when Larry retired it will be the end of an era; his only child chose not to carry on the family tradition. by Vivienne E. Tfilliams largest tract of land. They also wrote fire insurance and surety bonds. The Baker Abstract company was organized in 1907. It was managed by E.C. Baker. Another worth mention in the Real estate business is Mr. Wm. Wilkinson. Mr. Wilkinson sold Real estate and Insurance in the two- story brick Wilkinson building. Later on to have housed Thomas and Thomas, Attorneys at Law. Located on Main Street is the office of The Kit Carson Abstract Company. This com- pany was organized back in 1916, and was very ably managed by H.G. Hoskin. He was one of the most widely known and progressive men of the community and his name had been prominently identified with the growth and development of the county for 42 years. (1929) Another of our real pioneers in the business world of Burlington is Burt Ragan who specializes in Insurance and has other busi- ness ventures to add to his name. He was also Special Deputy Tax Collector for Kit Carson county; bought and sold horses, mules and all kinds of livestock; took care of rentals; was a Notary Public, a dealer in Real Estate; and engaged in farming. He operated one of the largest general insurance agencies in eastern Colorado. Among the companies represented were: Aetna Insurance Co., Home Insurance Co., Commercial Union Fire Insurance Co., Hartford Insurance Co. (writing all lines), The Franklin Life Ins. Co. Queen Insurance Co., Colonial Underwriters, Fidelity-Phoenix Insurance Company, Liverpool, London, and Globe Ins. Co., and others of more or less importance. He had been in the fire insurance business here for thirty years in 1929, and added Life ins. a little over a year ago. He also wrote surety bonds. �STRATTON EQUITY COOPERATTVE CO.r*, In 1914, fifty seven interested persons purchased shares of stock dated December 16, 1914 and the Cooperative was born. It was named and formed the Stratton Equity Exchange, now known as the Stratton Equity Cooperative Co. During the formative years the company had the usual ups and downs of a new business with the position of manager being changed quite frequently. During the years 1918-22, fle managers were hired. When the business was organized R.M. Farquhar was the first manager and started operating the business with a grain elevator and attached corrugated metal shed, which served as the office. The first board of Helen Kerl, bookkeeper, Stratton Equity Exchange, in the 1930's. directors were, O.L. Boone, D.S. Manley, J.J. Harris, U.S. Clark and Arthur Radspinner. The manager and four employees operated the new business in 1914. In 1934 Dick Rose was hired as manager. : t;i :,: i.rt?'t: ttr Stratton Equity Exchange when Dick Rose was t manager. 4 rl t, ::"..:,: Lumber yard and Elevator in early days. During the hard years the board of directors saw the need for a capable manager with experience and determination necessary to pull the business out of financial trouble. During Rose's long tenure as manager many improvements were made. First, a 60 ft. scale was installed. two steel bins were erected with approximately 36,000 bushel grain storage, Iater on adding an expansion to it,22'x40' more steel bins. This gave them storage capacity of 510,000 bushels. In 1929 the first service station was added in 1959 for the cost of$35,000.00. It featured the latest in equipment to service automobiles, truck and farm machinery. The fertilizer plant was built in 1964. At this time the Coop had 650 shareholders. In 1968 Dick Rose retired as manager of the Coop. Ben Davis was hired as manager on May 1, 1968. During this time the Coop has added more needed service. The Coop added grain storage at the Kirk Coop of 1,000,000 bushel for corn and wheat, and added a new service station at Kirk, built a new hardware store with new office spaces and added grain &. I t t h storage at Stratton. A new feedmill was installed that services the county with feed being delivered when needed. Transport trucks were purchased to deliver fuel and grain. The Coop now has 4,266,000 bushel of grain storage to serve its members. The Coop now has 1582 share holders in 1988. The present directors are, Jim M. May, President; Jack Shafer, Vice President; Ron Richards, secretary; Charles Clapper and Dale Conrardy, directors. Bennie C. Davis is presently serving as manager. The Coop employs 63 employees to service their members. Elevator and Feedmills, 1988. Stratton Equity Exchange. �STRATTON BARBER SHOP B62 Otte Collier and wife Birdie Sholes Collier operated the barber shop and beauty salon in Stratton about the years 1928-1930 before moving to Yuma, Colo. to operate a shop there. The barber chairs were in the front part of the building with the beauty shop booths further to the back. Short hair styles became popular in the 1920's making heated curling irons the latest in hairdressing. Small irons for the small curls and larger heated irons for longer hair came along with the waving iron. Mrs. Collier was a sister to Charles Sholes. The shop was located in the building where Ray Jones has his present business on Colorado Avenue, Stratton's main street. One of the customs at that time was at the death of anyone in the community the Marshall of the town would go down one side of the street and up the other side stopping at each business informing them the time the funeral was to be held. and the merchants would close their doors for that hour in ft. building owned by Jack and Maurine Mauch. Later it became a family corporation, including John, Ron and Cheryl. In July of 1968, a big fire caused by an electrical short at night almost destroyed the building. The remains of merchandise was sold for salvage to a Denver dealer and the fixtures were replaced and cleaned. The reopening happened 6 weeks from the day of the fire. Loyal customers returned and enabled the corporation to double the building size to 17,000 sq. ft. in L974. In December of 1981, the business sold to a life long competitor Safeway, Inc., who leases the building from Jack and Maurine, now retiring in Sun City, Ari. of the framework and sides to the floor, the cabinet installation, enclosure of the unit, a wood sealer coat followed by much sanding and two coats of varnish. Then water lines and electrical components plus refrigerator and stove were added. Insulation and tinning followed with much crimping. Then at the finish station, windows, a ventilator, door, interior lights and clearance lights, curtain rods and curtains, and table preceded the precise sealing of all seams with a liquid sealer. A serial number for identification was stamped on the unit in the final manufactu- ring step. A thorough checking of all operative components was made before any unit left the factory. by Jack Mauch This is a partial listing of the persons known to have worked there during the peak years: Richard Ellsworth, Virgil Pugh, Weldon Vance, Shorty Vance, Muriel Lindsey, Oral May, Walt and Leona Meyers, Marvis COLORADO MOBILE HOMES Husler, Mary Flageolle, Loretta Ehlers, Jerry Shean, Sarah Campbell, Lola Gramoll, Mar- . qrll Joe Dvorak, Larie (Bauman) Smelker, Doris (Thyne) Boes, Ab and Dorothy Lucas, and 864 Urban, Alvin and Millie Menke, Gladys tin Bauman, Robert Gerke, Leota Mitchem, Dean Campbell. In 1965 Rex Zurcher took over manage- ment and production was done on order only. On June 19,1972, Rex Zurcher and Mrs. Lee respect for the person that had died. If anyone came to town they would know why they couldn't get in the store. Zurcher disposed of all equipment and materials at a public dispersal auction. by Stella Sholes Arends SAVE U MARKET by Dorothy Lucas STRATTON REALTY 863 865 Colorado Mobile Home production line. Palamon (Pal) Hornung owns and manages the Stratton Realty. A little over two years ago he studied for his sales license and then he decided he would go ahead and get his broker's license. He passed both tests the first time he was given the test. Pal's Father, Swede, was also a realtor. His office was on the opposite side of the street and on the northeast corner - Batt Realty. Batt Realty was the former bank in Stratton and the old safe is still in the building, which is now a liquor store. (1988). Pal and Shirley Hornung bought the Finished pickup camper units ready for delivery, peak production 1961. Grocery store on Highway 24 owned and operated by Jack Mauck. Lee Ellsworth founded the 1800 square foot grocery store, called Save U, south of Hwy. 24, in the late 1940's. It was founded because of a need for the Bonny Dam employees, and Hwy. 24, fiaffrc customers. Lee and his brother, Carrol, built the building and operated it until they leased it to Bill Dittmore, who later declared bank- ruptcy. The White House Market Inc. of Goodland, Kansas re-opened it and operated it a short time. In 1953, one of their officers, Jack Mauch, purchased it from them and operated it for over 30 years. Then, in the year 1964, the business moved across the highway to 111 18th Street in a new 8,000 sq. Colorado Mobile Homes was a late 1950's to early 1970's business in Stratton producing long and short base pickup camper units and some pull type mobile units from a site on First Avenue across the street south of today's Stratton Equity Coop loading dock. The business was originated in 1957 by Lee Ellsworth, Burlington, in association with "Shorty" Vance. Peak production years were 1960-62 when as many as 26 people worked on the production line, completing two units per day. The mobile trailer factor enjoyed a reputation of having the best constructed mobile camper unit of that era, boasting top grade full dimension lumber, glued and nailed joints, well insulated walls and custom cabinetry made at the factory. A production line process started with the lumber precisely sawed, placed into jigs for nailing and gluing, following by attachment building from the Town of Stratton in 1987 for Pal's real estate business and Shirley's floral business and travel agency. The building was the former City Hall for the Town of Stratton. It still houses the original Stratton jail. The south side of the building housed the fire truck and the maintenance equipment for the Town of Stratton. Pal and Shirley just had a bathroom, walls, and a new front window and door put in the building. They plan on doing few major alterations from the original look of the building for historical purposes. Shirley and Pal enjoy history and one of their family hobbies has been stopping off at museums and historical sites wherever they travel. Pal is using his father's desk and chair in his office, and Shirley is using the old Stratton Credit Union roll top desk. The Credit Union was in the Batt Realty building, also. Lawrence Torline managed the Credit Union. by Shirley Hornung �tions in the town. The following list of Vona businesses was originally compiled by J. Carl Harrison. The names of businessmen are not necessarily in chronological order. The list VONA BUSINESSES B66 covers business from 1889 to 1988. Auctioneer: J.R. Taylor, Claude Irvin also worked in the Vona area. Bank: Vona State. A.V. Jessie - Pres., S.W. Abbott - V.P., Warren Shamburg - Director, Marc Waynick - Cashier 1923, J.J. Delaney, and Leon Snyder. Barber Shops: Guy Gingles, Mr. Melen, Harry Lambert, Doran Alexander, Jack Cottrell, Vic Gagnon, Bruce Teetters, Mr. White Eagle, Ray Roberts in Vona Bean, and Russell Sawyer. Blacksmith Shop: Mr. Cooper, CIem Borah, Al Martin. Bulk Oil Plants: Ray Roberts, Norris Merriweather, Orval Burd, and Will Odle. Butcher Shop: Paul Wilson, Nelson, and Inside Vona State Bank. Marc Waynick, Herk Hill and Mrs. Waynick Dean Dew. Clothing: Stover Bros., Doles, Mrs. Effie Helderman, and Bernard Waldrons, Hayes Clothing Store. In the years between the inception of Vona and somewhere in the thirties or forties, Vona was considered somewhat of a boom town. During the time called the homestead days, there were probably a hundred families in the Vona trade area which was about 6 miles wide and extending to Yuma county line north and south to the Cheyenne county line. There were. at one time, about 35 business institu- Construction: Glenn Edmunds Cream Stations: Fred Mohr, Bernice Carlstedt, Bill Hartsook, Fanny Thompson, Mrs. Foxworthy, Louis Schiedegger, John Kerl, Mae Chester, and Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Palmer. Dairies: E.H. Haynes, Mr. Carey, Roy John Kerl's Creamery, Perl and John Kerl George, Ernest Elsey, Mr. Howell, and Mr. and Mrs. Ray Ford. Dance Halls: Dr. Hewitt. Bill Harsook. and Homer Bridge. Depot: Henry Wallace, Mr. Blakeman, Mr. Folaom, Mr. Henry Weikel, Mr. Liggett, Mr. Jeffers, John Hale, Mr. Tracy, E.G. Monroe, Harry Rice, and Fern Carpenter. Doctors: Dr. Whitaker, Dr. Leslie, Dr. Fencedamocker, Dr. Thomas, Dr. Myers, Dr. V.M. Hewitt. Dray Line: Walt Bridge, Terry Atkins, Roy George, Leo Gagnon, Chester Burd, Nels Iverson, Leonard Dawson, Carl Remmick, and Homer Bridge. Drug Stores: Edgar Thompson, S.J. Brown, Edgar Ancell, Kougers, Art Krier, Steve Neil, John Cochran, Dr. and Mrs. Hewitt. Electric Repair Shop: Rex Howell Elevators: The Vona Equity Cooperative Assn. - Tuck Anderson, Snell and Farmers: A check drawn on the Vona State Bank Elmer Ferris, Floyd Borders, Hal Borders, Max Deakin, Mr. and Mrs. Edgar Ancell, A.W. Morgan, and Snell Grain: 1931: E.B. Wilson; J.W. Borders, Joe Doughty, 1964, Smoot Grain: Leo Gurley managed from 1961-1979; Vona Grain: 1979 Schultes. Filling Stations: Newt Howell, Adam Elsey, B.H. Williams, Ray Roberts, Loyd Roberts, Clint Wilhite, C.L. Snyder, Orville Atkins, Buck Weaver, Clyde Coleman, Dale Courtright, Bob Baker, Leo Gagnon, Leland Kibbee, Norris Merriweather, Paul Klassen, f:' ,:llrl: ";;" Edna Monroe. Mabel Fuhlendorf Neva Monore taken in the summer of 1930 in Mick Monroe's Model T Ford in front of the Vona State Bank Frank Wilson, Jim Camp, Louis Scheidegger, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Burian. Garages: Maxwell; Millard Harrison. Chevrolet: Ezra Harlan, Adam Elsy, B.R. Baker. Ford: Buck Weaver, George Moyes, Earl Webb, Mr. Madison, John, Barney, and Lou Thompson, Louis Scheidegger, Charlie O'Neil, Bates and Howell, Ralph Meisner, Leon Blystone, Jim Millerand, Joe Oliver, Leland Kibbee and Carl Woller, Kemper Brothers (Jim, Bill, Art, Roy) 1931 - Farmall Tractor: Pat Murphy; East Garage: Frank Brugman; Willeys Cars: J.O. Bates, 1933; in the late 1940's: Jim and Joes Garage and Body Shop: Jim Miller and Joe Oliver �purchased some property from Mabel Harlan and Ottis Hubbell worked for them part time with Wanda Miller as the bookkeeper; Camps Service: Jim Camp, Diltz Fix It Shop; Ronnie Diltz. Shops: Orval Burd; Hydraulic Fix It Shop Liquor Store: 1988: Lone Pine Liquors and VCR Tapes, Frances Camp by Janice Salmans VONA BUSINESSES flr,ro:Ltoyi Bill Harper, Sam Lloyd, ? Lloyd, Bert Kvestad, 867 Fred Flanagan, Nelson, and Burcar digging potatoes. in 1909. Roller Skating Rink Homer Bridge. Second Hand Store: S.P. Townsend, Bob Miller, and Zella anci Lester Yonts. Section House: John Delanev. Archie Doc Hewitt, Bill Eaton, Walt Proctor, Joe Burian. Pat Murphey, Herschel Salmans, and Bill Anderson in front of the Vona Drug Store. Ferris, Harry Shepard, Clyde Mullis, Allie Ferris, and John Hendricks. Section Crew: John and Earl Webb. Archie Ferris, Ben Borders, Bill Borders, Charles Howell, Harrison Schultz, Sam Lloyd, Mr. Elevators in Vona, Colorado Ledbetter, and Pete Groves. iis '{ $ . utl::r.tri:.. ..,t:,,ti.... i ....,. .-:.t:1.::i'l Taxi Service: Will Odle. ::f ut: l::t,:: rrrla:lr: Telephone Operators: Roxie Gray (later Kvestad), De Etta Mohr, Katy and Clara Boese, Mabel Harlan, Mr. and Mrs. Clvde Coleman, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Palmer. Telephone Repairman: Ed Sparks. Upholstery Repair: Mrs. Schiffner, and Kathy Thorson. Well Drilling: Clem Borah, John Puirshon. Mr. Densmore, and A.V. Hardin. Windmill Dealer: S.L. Howell. Woodwork Shop: Mr. W.E. Melling. Telephone Operator: Charles George. Vona Inns: Adams Always Inn: Shirley Adams, Ginger's Place: Ginger Sechrist. Hill- Top Inn: Dan Hubbell. Grocery and General Stores: Red and White Grocery - 1931 - Fred J. Adams; and Cary Mercantile - 1933 - E.H. Carey. Erastus Johnson, I.D. Fuller, Fred Adams, Newt Howell, Emmit Carey, Charley Carey (1g11) W.A. Cottrell, Mr. Mccorkle, Jim and Lee Erskin, Mark Crocker, Claude and Viv Brantley, Mr. Frye, Jim Stover, Charles Foster Lumber Yard in Vona Alexander, John Collins, Ollie Bates, Roy George, Park and Sadie Bonham, Mr. Hayes, J.J. Gladden, Pat and Merl Ford, Gust and Helen Herrell, John and Evelyn Hendricks, Mr. and Mrs. Rayrnond Monroe, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Anderson, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Zimmershied, Lillian Sechrist, Mr. and Mrs. �Rex Regnier, J.J. Elliot, Mr. and Mrs. Larry Estin, and Scotty Elliston. Hardware Stores: Harlan Haynes, Leon Snyder, Emmett O'Brien, and Charlie Davis, and A.L. Hitchcock. Hotels: Mrs. Becky Stover, Mrs. Laura Alexander, Mrs. Kunkel, John Webb, Edd Gagnon, and Joe and Syble Burian, T.S. SEIBERT EQUITY COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION erected across the railroad tracks to the north in 1986. This increased the total storage capacity of 2,633,000 bushels. B68 The Seibert Farmers Equity Exchange was organized August 9, 1915 by a group of prominent farmers, J.O. Hendricks, W.J. Stover. Insurance Agents: Herschel Salmans, Ronald Stone. Jewelry Store: A.A. King, and Mr. Warren. John Deere Agency: Fred Adams Livery Barn: Newt Howell, Jim Cannon, to G.W. Klockenteger. The amount of origi- Millard Harrison, Earl Webb, and Mr. Mat- nal Capital Stock was $5,000.00 divided into teson. 200 shares of $25.00 each. Lumber Yard: Z.J. Kiser, Harlan Haynes, Carl Alexander, Phil Bruner, Gib Anderson, Oscar Strehlow, John Hendricks, Hamy Burd, Foster; Paul Rauseur, and Norris Merriweather, Phil Bruner 1935-37. Peterson, Thomas J. Jones, James O. Parnell, and Alva J. Smith. The first stock was issued The first elevator, with 10,000 bushel capacity, was purchased from B.E. Roller. Gus Fuhlendorf, Chauncy Webb, and Homer The original set of scales was ordinary wagon scales with a capacity of 8,000 lbs. In 1924, the capacity of the elevator was raised to 20,000 bushel by remodeling. Later, a warehouse was built and coal bins were added. Bridge. County Deputy: Herschel Salmans. Meat Market: John Dennis, Paul, Wilson, and Mr. Nelson. Millinery Shop: Laura Alexander, Mrs. Webb, and Olive Harrison. hides and feed were handled along with grain. A cream station was operated for many years. The company was reorganized and changed the name to Seibert Equity Cooper- Marshals: N.E. Sharp, Morris Thompson, Newspapers: 1889 Will Rogers, Orville Rogers (not related), 1908 Vona Enterprise: Wiley E. Baker, and Scheidegger Bros. Nursing Home: Blanche Howell Photographer: W. C. Taylor, and Dale and Margaret Felix. Picture Show: J.O. Bates, Fred Flanagan, and Jim Hurd. Pool Halls: Harry Lambert, Musselman, Garnhart, Mr. Martin, Jim Cannon, Guy Gingles, George Moyes, Jack Cottrell, Joe Burian, Martin Matteson, Pat Murphy, Mrs. Hal Borders, and Homer Bridge. R.R. Pumpman: Mr. Brink, Harry O'Neil, and Roy Mussleman. Real Estate: Paul Wilson, S.L. Howell, E.H. Haynes, and Gus Herrel (Violet Edmunds tells us that Mr. Howell measured the land by tying a rag on his wagon wheel and figuring so many wagon wheels per mile.) Restaurants: August Carlstedt, Ma Haxtun, Mr. J.G. Brookshire, Lena Jensen, Mrs. Molly Ancell, Lena Alley, Mrs. John Tyron, Hubert and Rachel Dawson, Colemans, Martha Roberts, Hazel Wilhite, Irene Courtright, Fred Harper, Guy Youtsey, Lyle and Pearl Snyder, Tex Furguson, Isabelle Monroe, Vera Waterman, Frances Camp, and the Vona High School. South of Vona Blacksmiths: Al Tilbury and Alton Hardin. General Stores: A.S. Baker, and Bill Goff. North of Vona Blacksmiths: Frank Boger, and Abe Klassen. Cream Separator Agency: Ed Sparks. General Stores: Mr. and Mrs. Brownwood, Dick Roorda, Fred Loopstra, and Will Weisshaar. by Janice Salmans Produce, chickens, hogs, flour, salt, fruit, ative Association in 1935. In 194?, a 60'scale with capacity of 105,000 lbs. was installed. A bulk gas and filling station was operated from 1947 through 1954. In the spring of 1950, a 250,000 bushel capacity concrete elevator was constructed. In 1957, following several years of drought, the country was blessed with sudden moisture. Because the wheat had already blown out, the farmers planted milo. Therefore, a new grain dryer was installed to accommo- The Co-op takes prides in the speed in which grain can be unloaded to enable trucks to return to the field in record times. The access to 5 dumps and 2 sets of scales makes this possible. The record number of bushels received in one day is 235,081. During the wheat harvest of 1987, the oldest set ofscales collapsed and was replaced by a new 80's scale to weigh the longer semi- trucks of the future. The first manager of the Co-op was Ross Lowe. Other managers in succession have been, Charley Barber, A.L. Carpenter, E.M. Short, Henry Daum, Lloyd Murphy, Jack Allen, Martin Rasmussen, B.D. Hargrove, Eugene L. Hase, Robert Schmitt, B.D. Har- grove, John Keener, Bill Stramek, and Eugene L. Hase, who is manager to this time. Net sales: L927, $244,374; L937, $44,487; t947, $505,322; 1957, $197,171; 1967, $L,028,342; t977, $2,813,088; 1987, $4,858,490. by Carla Herman STATE BANK OF BURLINGTON B69 date the big milo crop. An office building, annex, cleaner and more concrete storage were added increasing capacity to 960,000 bushel by 1960. At this time the 60's scales were moved to the front of the new office building. In 1970, the Co-Op purchased some inventory from Gorton's Hardware and Kliewer's Hardware of Flagler following the closing of both businesses. A hardware department was set up in the basement of the office building. Later in 1976, a 240'x30' building was built to provide a new hardware store, a feed warehouse. and new offices. Things got very hot down by the railroad tracks in 1979! A fire broke out in the frame elevator, the original building acquired by the Co-op, which was presently being used as a grain roller. The adjacent warehouse, containing hazardous chemicals, burned also. Therefore, the Town of Seibert was evacua- ted for a few hours as a precaution. This building was replaced by a new feed mill in 1980. In that same year, a warehouse was attached to the cleaner to store bagged seed. Also, a warehouse was congtructed south of the main location to store oil and supplies. Due to increasing crop production, it was necessary to add to the concrete elevator. Four concrete tanks were constructed in 1980. This increased the storage capacity to 1,609,000 bushels. In 1983, a set of 70' scales with capacity of 120,000 lbs. was installed parallel to the 60' scales as a backup in case of break down and to avoid long lines at harvest. Because of good weather conditions and good farming, crop yields increased. The board of directors made the decision to build additional storage. Three steel bins were The first bank in Burlington in 1887-88. The first bank in Burlington was called the State Bank of Burlington. The building was first located about where Lee's Barber Shop is now. In 1888 the bank moved to the building where The Corner Cut, operated by Dean Sailer, is now located on the corner of Senter and 14th Street. The bank was later sold to W.D. Selder who then organized the Stockgrowers State Bank in about 1901. The year of establishment is not known but it must have been late 1886 or 1887. by Willard Gross �PEOPLES NATURAL GAS they serve and plan to be a part of these communities in the future. B70 Plateau Natural Gas Co. operating in Southwest Kansas and Southeast Colorado including Lamar, Eads, Limon and small MONTEZUMA HOTEL 871: communities around Colorado Springs in 1960 and 1961, arranged to bring natural gas into the communities east of Limon and Hugo. Their plan was to supply natural gas service to these areas and also to serve the irrigation wells being drilled in east central Colorado. The experience in southeast Colo- The lovely dining room in the hotel. 1900 - Minnie Kuker is girl in photo. The administrative office, at first, was real estate dealer and promoter whose surmise proved correct that the Rock Island railroad would be coming this way. It is on Newell's land that Burlington platted in the rado in serving the irrigation development proved to make this investment possible. operated out of a mobile home until the present office was completed at 304 14th Street in Burlington in the fall of 1962. The first service was, of course, natural gas service to residential and commercial customers and then to the irrigation wells, as this industry was developed. The price of natural gas was very low at the beginning. The irrigation rate was 370 per 1000 cu. ft. ofgas. year 1888. His hotel was a thriving, vital establishment a year before that, and well able to take care of all the business incident A crowd gathers on the north side of the Hotel as a salesman extolls the virtue of "Buster Brown" to the long awaited coming of the rails in September of '88. shoes. The Montezuma was not located in its present site in those early days. Its first location was in the block near where Grace Manor now stands, at 5th and Senter. A sparse settlement from west of the main part Duane Ply was the first manager in the Burlington area. He was replaced by Olen Brown in June of 1963. In the early years, Curtis Moran served in the Stratton area, Everett Adolf was one of the construction workers along with Asa Clark and Everett of present Burlington had moved to a Johnston as construction foreman. The present district manager, Ray Snodgrass was transferred to the Burlington area in July of 1963 and has served in several management assignments in the Burlington area in July of 1963 and has served in several management assignments in this area. He became District The alley view of the Montezuma where the cow Manager of the Burlington Area in 1982 when and "facilities" were placed. Brown retired. During the depression, the natural gas business was a new business and was just coming into being. Because of the hard times, its growth was quite slow. After World War II, it really came to life with the help of John L. Lewis and the Unions making the cost of coal so high. During the energy crisis the prices really were increased too fast and the industry found that the customer would only pay so much and something had to give. The price of natural gas never reached the high price crossroads in the eastern section and the two story farm building formed the first community center. Freight wagon operators, homesteaders, explorers prospectors - brave travelers all - making up the traffic of this pioneer period, headquartered there. The main supply points for this area were Haigler and Benkelman, Neb., and Julesburg. Nearest west, Hugo and the Kit Carson County came into being in the year 1888. In an interview before he died, Elmer Harrison recalled that he charged hay haulers 25 cents per night, but fed traveling men a bit fancier so he could get 50 cents per room. Most of the hay haulers slept in the Harrison livery stable anyway. Boarders who forgot to wash up with bowl and pitcher in their rooms could use the kitchen pump. But this often ran dry as did the town well, a block up the "I was born in the Montezuma, just a couple of years before the turn of this century," this from Hobart Harrison, retired Burlington Mercury dealer. His parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Harrison were the second owners of the hotel buying it September 3, 1897. The builder was R.S. Newell, a predicted. Most of the residences of the towns in East Central Colorado. as well as the business places have been the customers of the Company since it began business in 1962. During the first 10 years of operation, the Company ran many miles of pipeline to serve more and more customers. In 1968, Plateau ran a line into Yuma and Washington Counties and in 1970 a line from the south was installed to Cheyenne Wells, thus offering these areas natural gas service. In 1970 our Company was merged with Northern Natural Gas Co. Distribution Company, which was Peoples Natural Gas Co. The Company is now owned by a Corporation called UtiliCorp United Inc. of Kansas City, however, the headquarters for Peoples Natural Gas is in Omaha, Nebraska. Their plan is to serve their customers with good service in the future. Our Company, over the years, has participated in many activities in the communities rt;l,.tt',1 ,*i.,:"; 'il Main Street late 1890's, looking south on right side of street is the Montezuma Hotel. �the sequel to the hanging! Not long after the lynching, a Cheyenne Wells woman, taking her cows to pasture across the railroad tracks one early morning, alerted the town with piercing screams. Two ghastly corpses swung from the same water tower. It is surmised that some irritated resident has hung a couple of barking hound dogs. One of the most public spirited citizens of early times was the late A.W. Winegar, whose search for settlers involved elaborate promotion. It was even more intensive in the first years of the century than is the present Lake Havasu campaign, or those of other land promoters who give free dinners and pitches at local cafes, even offering "no obligation" plane tickets to prospective buyers. Enlisting the brand new Pullman cars put on the smooth, just lain Rock Island tracks, Winegar and his agents (only one prospect of each agent) would bring Easterners to Burlington. The aim was for permanent settlers, not investors. 'ri::rr::i ].it,.' ;:;:;:1;1;,::: -":,q,* l;r:t The Montezuma Hotel in 1956 which was rebuilt in 1950 after the devastating fire that destroyed it in 1945. street in the center of a square. After three years the Harrisons built a home on Eleventh street which is the present William Peters home. There could be little effective law enforce- ment in those days where the passport was a six-shooter, backed up by a rifle. The wild kind of effervescence of "devil may care" characters had brought them to the frontier in the first place. No jails nor court rooms existed. After all, there was not even enough lumber to put with the sod for settlers' houses. So it was in the Montezuma in February of 1888 that a murder's victim died. The story goes that a homesteader named Franklin Baker, who was proving up on his Iand about six miles northeast of town, where the C.H. Bollwinkel farm now is, decided that he would no longer allow trespassing. So he put up a "no crossing" sign on his south fence. Baker, an ex-buffalo hunter, was no relative of families by that name who later came to Burlington. According to an account, kept by C.A. Yersin, late grandfather of Burlington's Henry Hoskin, this sign could not be seen by three men in a spring wagon coming from Haigler. They were astonished when Baker and his two sons accosted them and an argument ensued. Baker ordered his wife to fetch his shotgun and he filled two of the men with buckshot, a trunk protecting the third. The wounded ones were T. McConnell and John Morrison who had homesteads southeast of town and were well liked. Of course there was no such thing as a hospital, and so the wounded men were rushed to the Montezuma for care by the early day medic, Dr. would be held in the butcher shop down the street from the Montezuma. Then the prisoner, Baker, would be slipped out the back door of the butcher shop. The idea was to get the killer to the Union Pacific train at Cheyenne Wells where he could be sent to Denver for safe keeping. Enroute there would have to be a fresh team for extra speed since threats of lynching were heard all up and down the board walk in front of the hotel. Not long after this a scout came with news of Baker's removal from town and an angry mob did form in the lobby. Then, hot on the trail of the sheriff, his deputy and the prisoner, men took to horseback, carriages and buckboards to give chase southward. The second team of horses, no longer fresh after their share of the 44 mile journey, galloped into Cheyenne Wells. They were just ahead of the angry Burlingtonites. Since it was found the train was an hour late, the prisoner was hastily locked in the only available "jail", which was an empty box car on the siding near the coal chute water tower used to supply the steam train engines. While part of the Burlington men argued with the sheriff, short work of the lock up was made by others wielding a railroad tie. Soon the body of Baker was swinging by a rope in the chilly winter air. There was not a single tree in those days, so the water tower served the purpose. A greenhorn traveler, one Scott Vitatole from Kansas City, making his first trip to Colorado, arrived on the UP train that fateful morning. Later, in the Montezuma he told Barnes could arrive. He and his local deputy, the story of now deathly quiet greeted him as he stepped off at the station. It was evident that shocked Cheyenne Wells citizens had hidden after the vengeful Burlingtonites had departed. Glancing around, the third traveler found nothing greeted his eyes excepting the sagging body of the hanged homesteader. He was so appalled that he frantically grabbed his two grips and ran down the track after the butcher. It was decided that a hasty trial departing train in an effort to get back on. Nels Larsen, another early day resident who served in the Colorado lesislature told Paul Godsman. However, in two days, McConnell died and it was not long afterward that Morrison also died as a result of his wounds. This shooting roused the frontier, where news spread like wildfire. Feelings ran high even before Elbert County Sheriff Jerry Frank Mann, consulted the justice of the peace and Bud Page, who happened to be a However, the boom was on, and other promoters wanted land buyers of any intention. One prospect to one agent, Winegar believed would prevent the "sidewalk leeches" from stealing away any potential resident. For a time the Rock Island would allow the Pullmans to be set out on a siding in Burlington so that while trips for land buying were made roundabout the country, lodging and board for the visitors could be supplied. But it was soon evident that the Montezuma could serve better. Since the Harrisons wished to sell out, Winegar imported Mrs. Martha Coakley from Omaha to run the hotel. The Montezuma was moved to new Burlington, its present site, renewed with paint and soon "no vacancy" signs could be penciled on placards. Winegar reserved rooms in the hotel for specialists he had enlisted from Colorado's agricultural college, whom he implored to improve the strains of grain grown locally. The flint corn variety, with two foot stalks and nubbins only, was only a little worse than the type of early day wheat. Corn was found in Peru to cross with that of Eastern Colorado and wheat test plots were begun. These were to result in the world records possible in fields here today. Winegar's vital ground work, combined with a concept by Powell, a later Montezuma owner, of how to pioneer in irrigation from wells, all saw birth in the halls of Montezuma. "While campaigning or visiting the country every governor of Colorado from 1905 through 1944 stayed at our hotel" states Burlington's Mrs. Pearl Schell, daughter of Mrs. Coakley. In subsequent years, Mrs. Schell's husband, the late Henry Schell, assisted and then took over the Montezuma operation until August l, 1944, when it was sold to Earl Powell. Mrs. Schell remembers when she was a young, impressionable girl, that the famous Commodore Vanderbilt made the Montezuma his overnight stop as he paused enroute to Reno to get one of his divorces. When the hotel was moved. Mrs. Schell remembers, back steps were reinforced for the considerable traffic necessary for clients to reach the outdoor privy. It was not until 1909 that the first bathroom drew tourists from miles and miles away. What an improvement since the days when two horses and a milk cow were permanent residents - in an �attached shed in back! But problems beset quest in those days, as well as hotel operators. Wainscoting was fashionable, so in the high style re-do, the rooms afforded extraordinary comfortable breeding grounds for bed bugs. These reddish brown vermin, their color suggestive of the nightly banquets of human blood, spent daytimes in the wooden up and down grooves. With such halcyon food and lodging, these couch masters became so hale and eupeptic that "corrosive supplement," mixed with gasoline had to be dribbled down the wainscot crevices regularly to route the scourge. A popular pastime for travelers was to compare the bed bug population of various hostelries. It is a fact that in Brewster, Kansas, all legs of beds stood in cans of coal oil. This was either to prevent the arrival of lower floor newcomers or to cause a wretched demise for any bedbug inadvertently dropping from a mattress. In Colby, this old timer remembers, in second story rooms, coils of rope lay in corners. The ropes were attached to hefty rocks. Thus fire (or bite victims) were encouraged to escape by pitching the rock out the window and climbing down hand over hand. In spite of tall tales heard frequently, there is no record of any bed bugs growing to sufficient strength for this feat. But many renovations later, the Montezuma was free of multi legged pests and it was felt safe to build on a new third story. No end of dismay resulted when it was learned that in those days the bugs often were found in new lumber! So eradication had to begin all over again up there. With the coming of modern sanitation, no bed bug had registered in the Montezuma since before World War I. Something of a different nature, however bugged the owner who built on a third story. The difficult job was done by propping up the roof, sawing off the eaves and building underneath. Rains were problems during construction. The late J.A. Haughey, well known early day artisan, was in charge of the work. When taxes were raised to what the owner considered exorbitant heights because of the improvement, and no relief granted, the owner hired the construction crew to take the third story off again! Progress brought it back eventually and then came the only elevator - "lift" - between Norton and Colorado Springs to delight travelers and townspeople. Burlington's William Haughey, installed this first Otis elevator in the 1920's, after his father. J.A. Haughey, engineered the shaft. Bill also remembers that along about that time another famous visitor, the noted author, Ernest Thompson Seton, was a guest of the Montezuma. A northwest wind blew bitterly cold the night of December 16, 1945. Pheasant season was still on in Yuma County and those staying in the Montezuma had to be kept warm. So the coal furnace clinkers had to be removed, as stoking was done by hand each evening. That fateful night Owner Powell sat late in his office off the lobby, pondering his dream of beating the drought, and carrying on his office work until almost two in the morning. He did not smell smoke coming from the ignited wooden basement stairs, where, it is believed, the clinkers had been placed too close. But his daughter, now Mrs. Weidman was alert. Lockingthe hotel money and all her good clothing, including a brand new coat, in a closet which she never saw again, she turned in a fire alarm and quickly proceeded to rouse all the guests. This included 21 permanent residents. Horrifyingly soon, tongues of flame came up to the stairwell, and even though by the time the outside walls have been covered with concrete, the disaster was nearly complete. Roaring into the pre dawn pitch black sky, the blaze could be seen 25 miles away. Only Powell's files and business records were saved, even the register of guests becoming a cinder. Insurance covered only a fraction of the loss. Performing feats which reached the foolhardy at times, Burlington's fire department rescued people and battled the holocaust for hours. It was the most spectacular fire since the school had been destroyed in 1924 and Gold Bond Hatchery had burned in 1936. Commended for heroic efforts were Lester Sherman, Fire Chief; Martin Furuseth, Pat Andrews, Red Pugh, George Cockrell, Clay Gould, Bill Hendricks, Jack Chalfant, Ted Backlund, Luther Mangus, Shirley Standish, Hank Stevens, Beryl Springer and others. Further tragedy was averted as the roof began to smoke on the old square wooden resident which at that time housed Mountain States telephone company. This was just across the alley east. Onlookers got peppered with window popping out of Stevens cafe just south, although a25 foot court separated the two buildings. Following the fire, after a long time of staring at the ruins, a corporation was formed which was able to make the Montezuma block the great community improvement it has been for the past twenty-one years. The rebuilders included C.D. Reed, Harley Rhoades, Bill Jacobs, Albert Crouse and Floyd Whitmore. Harold McArthur bought out the Whitmore interest later. After a year and a half of building, and an expenditure of $300,000, the Montezuma was as nearly fireproof as it could be made. Lower outside facing was green terra cotta, the concrete above being painted desert green. Frontage of 75x100 feet included space for the J.M. McDonald store, which resident Hotels Company hopes will remain. Besides the lobby, coffee shop, large kitchen, cocktail lounge on the main floor, there is a banquet room in the basement. Fifty rooms, all carpeted, with bath and phones, plus outside ventilation, even include a bridal suite. Following the death of her husband, Mrs. Crouse took over from the corporation. Besides McDonalds, for some years the Federal Crop Insurance office was located in the hotel offices east of the lounge. Mrs. Dorothea Hammond operated the first of several beauty shops that were there. Seismo- graph crew headquarters, irrigation firms and other companies have been tenants. Maybe some octogenarian spirit lingering through the years, is chuckling in the halls of Montezuma at the thought of how the pendulum has swung back again. Nostalgic and oddly comforting is the thought of bed and supper all of a price. "Condividual" is a 1971 word. It could have been coined because there's still a little of the same lonely living as back in pre-homestead days of 188?. But the old ghost surely could appreciate the modern cure - Resident Hotel. The English author, Bacon said, "If a man be gracious to strangers, it shows that he is a citizen of the world. and his heart is no island, cut off from other islands. but a continent that joins them." Well, situated near mid-continent, our town's oldest hospitality house has been gracious a long time indeed. Without reservations, it can surely be said, the best is yet to come! Mr. and Mrs. Don Downen are the present owners and WB Drug, Inc. and Burlington Book & Music occupy the ground floor. by Bonny Gould PEARL'S GARAGE AND CAFE 872 On August 16, 1985, a frightful fire destroyed a historic building at the edge of the town of Flagler. This building was conceived and built by a man who had farmed 14 or lb miles north of Flagler, Pearl Lord. His vision of service stations, cafe, bar and some rooms was realized in about 1931. The size was great enough to house a repair facility along with a service station, cafe and bar. The economy of this day was very depressed and ali activities were graduated to fit this uneasy time. After much debate and assessment, adobe blocks for the building was selected, Robert McCurdy agreed to make the adobe blocks and to lay them into the walls. Concrete piers were used to support the massive domed roof at intervals along the adobe walls. Roof trusses, made by Olaf Olsen and other builders in the town, were constructed of one inch lumber, laminated for strength. One thickness of one inch lumber criss-crossed the trusses for the bridge-work to cany the load of the roof of one inch sheeting, roofing paper and tar. This roof proved to be the buildings demise for it burned like tinder and of course, collapsed into the interior, burning everything in the building. Under the south end of the building, near center, was a partial basement, dug by hand by many members of the community who showed up to work after doing their farm chores and other duties in order to make a dollar or two in spare time. John Shulda told me of hurrying through the work on the farm to make a trip to town to help with it. He said the dirt was removed on a 1929 Chevrolet Truck which was driven out of the basement area on a dirt ramp. He said he remembered so well how hard it was to remove the dirt ramp when the truck would no longer be used; the dirt was pitched out of the basement by hand. He said no one would believe the massiveness of the footers that were installed under the building and basement. Bob McCurty lived eleven miles south, a little over a half mile east on the correction Iine, one and one half miles south, one mile east and about a quarter mile north on what was later the Harris-Davies ranch. His place was about a mile northwest of Conrad Stone who had located in the expanse of buffalo grass and the cactus, constructed a home and even a barn of the fabulous adobe blocks made in the area. I can attest to the warmth in winter and the coolness in summer. the roof of the "Connie" Stone house was one inch sheeting, tar paper and a generous layer of sod. This sod was always placed on the roof with the grassy side down to discourage �growth of the grass; some persistent prairie plants, including cactus soon appeared in areas over the roof. Pearl Lord eventually contracted with Bob McCurdy to make the adobe for his building near Flagler and to lay them into the walls. This gave Bob an opportunity to make a little money and provide some work for his neigh- bors in making the blocks. The process of making adobe blocks began with a circular area on the prairie that was gone over with a disk harrow pulled by a team offour horses. It was disked over and over until the top layer of the soil, grass, roots and sometimes cactus was loosened. A fresno, an earth moving device of that day, was used to scrape the Ioosened area into a pile at the center. The fresno had a four foot blade between two runners. a metal area where the dirt was collected, a long handle at the rear which raised to dump the load of dirt, pulled by four head of horses. After the pile was formed, the area previously cleaned was used for the base of the forms 1X4 inch lumber. nailed and sawed by Lyle Stone In high gear the "T" moved at about five miles per hour. Bob came to a hill and even with the advantage of the gearing, the "T" wouldn't climb a hill he encountered on the trip, causing him to push the low pedal. He spent several hours getting over the hill; he said it moved so slowly one almost needed to make a line to see any progress!! After the blocks were made, the task of hauling them to the building site began. Wagons with two horse teams were loaded for the long trip. Two trucks were used, both 1929 vintage. One ofthese trucks belonged to the Hyde family. Bob and his crew, along with the various carpenters and builders from Flagler then ran the concrete pillars, foundations and layed the walls. When the walls and domed roof were in place the adobe portion was covered with chicken wire, applied to the exterior. Although the cost of material for the building was held in check, the amount was tremendous because of its size and the expenditure of labor was momentous but so very welcome at this time of few jobs and relatively hard times. Mr. Lord should have been commended for his foresight and courage. PEARL'S GARAGE AND CAFE having geared teeth on the wheels. Two gears were installed where the "T" rear wheels had been and these ran on the gear in the wheel. Pearl had previously operated an oil 87S into squares the size of the blocks desired. It took a large number of these forms to accommodate a day's run of blocks. A mixer which Bob had made from a threshing machine blower, smaller paddles installed, driven by a Model T engine was used to mix the mud. The radiator of the engine was a 30 gallon barrel, fitted with hose connections to the cooling system. The barrel was then filled with water. A trap door on the mixer was hinged to a handle near the lower portion of the blower assembly. It opened to allow the mud which had been whipped within, after station at what is now the Tip Top Corner, the south end of Main Avenue, where he had learned the ins and outs of the oil business. He earlier operated a station near where Arthur Gaines house now stands. He had experienced a Spring Auction when his farm equipment had been sold and chose the oil business when he moved to town. During the operation ofthese endeavors he had accumulated quite a large amount in his accounts receivable ledger which came in handy when the adobe building was erected. Many of these accounts were settled at this time in the form of work performed in constructing the building. by Lyle Stone dirt from the pile and water had been added, to be released. The mud was then moved in wheel banows to the forms which were filled, skreeded and given a slick finish with a trowel. Next day, the forms were removed from the blocks; sometimes this could be accomplished on the same day if it was hot enough to cause the mud to crack away from them. The forms were carefully lifted and the blocks left to bake in the sun for a number of days. Other area were disked and this operation continued on for days. After the desired number of blocks had been made or had sufficiently baked they were trimmed and stacked to protect them from rain; this happened so rarely at this time but when it did rain, it came in downpours. When the blocks were raised from their position on the ground, often clumps ofthe under earth stuck to them and had to be cleaned off. This proved to be a man killing job. Bob devised a trimmer made from a disk of an implement which he belted to the "T" engine. A trough or slide was made where the blocks could be pushed through under the spinning disk. This proved to be a great device. Bob moved the equipmentone day to a new area. He had converted his Model T Ford to a tractor with a kit called a "pull-Ford". It consisted of a pair of tractor-like wheels PEARL'S GARAGE AND CAFE 874 When he was barely old enough to lift a scoop, Pearl became a miner at mystic, Appanoose County, Iowa. He did not like being a miner and left as soon as possible, setting out west to escape this occupation as a means of livelihood. He helped in the construction of the Cog Way Railroad at Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs. He later worked for Bob Lukow near Arriba, Henry Brown of Flagler area and then began farming for himself north of Flagler. In 1905 he married Mina Young. She was only a year old when her parents arrived at Otis by rail, the first to come in this manner, to take up homesteads in the area. Mina was born in Missouri from where they began the long trip west. "Pearls" became an instant success. High- way 24 ran close to the south frontage. Travelers from the east and west were aware of Pearl's station as they arrived in town and with the increase of automobiles and travelers, business was good. First operator of the new cafe was Waddey Butler who may have come from the Vona area. John and Beula Bower ran a good cafe that benefited from the visiting tourists, as well as the local clientele. They resided in the living quarters located on the second floor; several of the waitresses roomed there also. During the time Johnny and Beula ran the cafe, the doors were never locked, the service continued 24 hours a day, never a shuffle to find a key. The bar was a success with good business, not without an occasional problem, Pearl was usually able to keep order or had those in his employment who could. During the hours of the big flood of 1935 the establishment had standing room only for many days as travelers waited for washouts to be repaired. Locals engaged in helping where possible took meals there, one of the assiduous times in the history of the building. Operators of the cafe maintained on hand a large inventory of food and supplies, not only to reduce the cost of supplies but because of the slower supply routes of this day. Many residents of the town called to buy food when local supplies ran low. The flood stopped the normal supply to the local grocery stores. Gasoline prices challenged any in town; Pearl shopped for it at various refineries, taking the best buys. It may have smelled different but it burned fine in the cars. The cafe was operated very successfully by several operators, one of these operators was B.K. Moss. The Moss family ran the cafe for many years, living for a time in the quarters provided there. They ran a successful business with Mrs. Moss doing the cooking for halfofthe day and Zenelda the other, a night and day operation as the business was seldom closed. I do not know the reason, but I suppose it was the times, the building changed hands and became agarage operated by Millard Petersen who obtained a dealership for Chrysler-Plymouth. When he started the business he needed a name. chose to conduct a contest where people of the community picked names; at the special day of the naming the lucky contributor would receive $25.00. Mrs. Moss, who was so very familiar with this old building, submitted the winning entry, the M&S Garage. One of the cars sold went to C.G. Dorsey, a Plymouth; it returned to the building recently and met its demise with the building as it burned. Mr. Petersen operated the business for a number of years with much success and turned the operation over to Rhynold and Crystal Fager who continued the dealership, serving the customers of the business and selling Chrysler products. Two Plymouth station wagons were delivered to the writer of this history. There are many memories and bits of history this old building could tell; as a young boy my memories were probably different. Uncle "Bill" who embarrassed me at times. called me "Bub" and was so very good to all of by Lyle Stone �I am very sure a volume could be written of the humorous, sad and important happen- PEARL'S GARAGE AND CAFE 875 us children. He insisted that I should play the slot machine that was located in the cafe. He provided me the quarter I needed; it was rare I ever had more than a dime to spend when we ventured into town. I put the quarter he gave me into the slot and pulled the handle. You might imagine the thrill I felt when I hit the jack-pot and quarters rolled all over the cafe. Uncle Bill insisted I keep all of them, got a paper sack for me to put them in; what a happy kid I was that afternoon! While in high school, several of us used to hang out at the cafe at times, a nostalgia of this time of growing up I shall never forget. Years before, I understand, that one evening a fight developed here. During his fight Bruce Bradley suffered a knife wound in the abdomen; luckily, Flagler had a few very adept doctors who treated him and saved him. Wilbur and Norman Haeseker made a necessary trip to town. Before going home they decided to visit the cafe. They parked the old car around back in the dark area. When they left, they found the spare, which was mounted outside on the rear of the car, missing. They returned home to find their father seriously ill. Dr. Reed checked him over and sent him to a specialist in Denver who treated him but he never returned. Father never knew about the lost spare. In later years, during the time of the Chrysler Dealership, many stories appear. Jerry Amos was serving as a mechanic; this day he removed the drive line and repacked the universal joint bearings on a Plymouth. This is quite a task and requires some finesse. Others waited until he had tightened the last bolt on the rear joint, layed two tiny rollers from another car in the place where Jerry had reassembled the joints. This oversight was pointed out to him. "And some Kill-joy has to come along and find the little rollers!" Jerry sputtered. All had a good laugh when they told him what they had done as he began to remove the drive line. Millard planned a special showdate when the newmodels would be shown, a general clean up was in progress. Jerry disappeared; Millard searched the area for him. Jerry was on the west side with paint brush in hand painting a silhouette of a hand, pointing to the door with the lettering "DOOR". Sylvan Morris was among the crew that worked for Millard at the M&S Motor Company. I believe Ken Goin, Pat Burgess and Virgil Fager, worked here also at this time. A new Plymouth was sold; Sylvan and others worked frantically on it to make it ready for delivery. When it was road tested, the speedometer made erratic excursions over the dial. Millard was informed of the difficulty. He said, "Finish getting the car ready. Take the speedometer out and bring it to my office. I'll fix it and have it ready by the time you finish the car." When the crew finished, Sylvan went to the office for the speedometer, Millard said, "We will deliver it without the speedometer; a new one will be here in a day or two." As Sylvan left he noted a few gears, odometer, pointer, dial and case strewn over the papers in the wastepaper basket. In this writer's years of repairing things, I understand! ings in this building. It is unfortunate that they could not be written at this time. Perhaps, this short record will be of use to preserve some of the history of the building. It has certainly been a land mark for those who grew up around Flagler. Already I have experienced its loss as I turned off I-70; for a fleeting moment I thought, "Is this Flagler?" After Rhynold moved from the building, Richard Petersen operated an implement agency in it for a time, dealing also in automobiles, gasoline and other services. In time, Richard was able to build a fine new station by Lyle Stone PEARL'S GARAGE AND CAFE 876 more accessible to I-70 and move into it. It is then that several others operated various businesses in the building, woodworking, cabinetmaking and others. The last business was that of Mark Amos who turned the area into a fine machine shop. He was able to do almost anything needed in the way of fabrication of metals, installed some of the very latest welding apparatus. Mark was enjoying a well established and successful business when a welding accident caused a fire in a vehicle within the shop. The fire spread so rapidly that in few minutes the rear area wErs engulfed in flame. Within minutes the roof was ignited and when this happened, there terrible toll. Written by Lyle Stone and published in The Flagler News, February 20, 1986. by Lyle Stone RED FRONT GROCERY 877 On Sept. 19th, 1910 W.H. Yersin opened a combination general store, post office in Bethune, Colo. W.H. Yersin did business in Bethune until 1914 when he and his wife. Alta B. Yersin, purchased the Red Front Market on main street in Burlington, Colo. From there the Red Front Market moved in 1968 to another larger location on Burlington's main street, which was formally occupied by an implement dealer. Then in 1976 the Red Front Market moved again to a new location, east highway 24 in Burlington, where it still remains today. by Ken Yersin BACKLUND 878 was little hope, for the one inch lumber, tar and tar paper burned like tinder. The Flagler Fire Department arrived in good time and water was immediately applied. The fire had already grown in size; the hope of saving anything was growing dim. It took some minutes to tap a fire plug about a block and a half away, string the hose and couple it. Backlund Garage on south end of 14th St. 1956. When this water was applied to the fire through two lines, a four inch and one inch and a half tap, along with the water from two other trucks, a pair oflines on the truck which arrived from Arriba. the fire was so immense that all that water hardly dented its furor. During the fire, the red fire truck was stationed between the M&S building and the LP Gas Company's Gasoline storage tanks. As the fury of the fire continued, these tanks became hotter and hotter. Due to the concern of the fire department for spread of the inferno to these tanks the red truck played streams of water upon these tanks to attempt to keep them cooler. Occasionally the mechanical pop off valves a-top these tanks released the vapor building within. At a point when the heat was at its maximum, fear for the firemen manning the red truck, caused a change in location of the red truck when it was moved west and played water through the air to these tanks. There existed a grave danger should the tanks blow. Luckily, as the fire began to abate, the tanks were still intact. It is very difficult for anyone who serves a fire department to give up, and losses such as this leave an emptiness hard to describe. With all the preparation for such emergencies, there are those that even then take a T.W. Backlund featuring Case Equipment, 1956. On Jan. 1, 1920, T.W. Backlund, began business in Burlington with his brother, Al, under the firm name of Backlund Co. He purchased the interest ofhis brother in 1930, and has been the. sole owner since that time. The original agencies were the lines merged into the Oliver Corp. in 1930. He has been the J.I. Case dealer since 1934, the agent for several short line implement agencies, and Goodyear Tires. In 1939, he becane the agency for Dodge cars and trucks. During the 46 years, Ted has operated in three different locations. Originally, the firm was located in the building now occupied by �On June 7,I9L5, a group ofwell known and progressive farmers of the Burlington and Idalia area came together and formed the Burlington Equity Exchange. The motivating factor in forming this Co-op was to try and receive more of the spoils for their farming efforts. Prior to the June 7th date, one thousand shares of stock had been sold for $25.00 per share to raise seed money to get the Co-op off and running. The first board of directors were: W.M. Kreoger, President; C.D. Munter, Secretary; David Byer, Vice-President; and Directors: A.W. Winegar, W.A. Walters, G.W. Broadsword and Wm. Byer. It is also thought that John Lengel was one of the directors. This group ofpeople purchased the grain elevators at the north end of Main Street, near the Rock Island Depot. This was a familiar landmark until it was torn down several years ago. About this time, the Burlington Co-op along with several other Co-ops in Colorado, Kansas and Nebraska formed the Equity Union Oil Company which later combined with Consumers Co-op Association to form Farmland Industries. Backlund Machinery Co. This picture was taken in 1920. Note advertisement on the side of the building' Machinery consists of threshing machines, grain drills, and tractors. ::i:1 , :,::i' Sometime after, the new elevator was built along the railroad in the N.W. corner of town, the water pipes froze and broke. This flooded the basement of the office building where many of the records were kept. As a consequence, all of the old records were destroyed; therefore, writing the history of the Co-op has been more or less a process ofgetting bits and pieces of information from here and there. I believe everything is accurate but I can't be 100% sure. The new elevator was built in 1951. In 1953, due to the Building Contractor's insistence of using substandard materials, one of the big concrete silos broke open, spilling wheat across Railroad Avenue. To solve this problem, the Co-op hired another contractor to pour sleeves inside the silos at a huge irril:,:':itl li:,:,,ll.,iri expense. In the early years of the Co-op the annual meetings were a social event for the farm people that were it's members. Many of the founding members and other farmers hauled their grain to the Co-op from north of town and the Idalia area. In 1935, the name was changed to Burlington Equity Co-op Exchange. A line up of "Hart-Parr" tractors with threshing machines behind lead tractor. Circa 1920. Backlund Machinery Co. the Burlington Locker Service. Later he moved to the old Hainline garage building (at the site of the new Safeway store), and six years ago erected the new building on Highway 24. The above was found in the old 1966 paper. by Janice Salmans BURLINGTON EQUITY COOPERATIVE EXCHANGE 879 At one of the early annual meetings of the Burlington Equity Exchange, the wife of the manager, Mrs. Edith Hedding, read a poem that ended with this verse: "Its fun to be a farmer And get out and till the soil, But the one who farms the farmer Is the one who gets the spoil." by Author unknown I remember that during the 1930's when I was a young boy, weekly trips to town on Saturday were not complete without a stop at the Co-op for supplies. Supplies ranged from axle grease to flour in pretty colored patterned sacks so the women could pick out the material they wanted and make dresses out of them. For a time the Burlington co-op had an elevator and a branch business in Bethune. I think this was from about 1956 to 1965. It was at this time many of the people in the Settlement, north of Bethune, became members of the Co-op. The managers of the Bethune branch were in order: Don Vallin, Ruben Zeigler, Curt Wood and Buster Jenkins. For about ten years, we also had a fertilizer plant west of town. This plant was sold to the Stratton Co-Op in 1982 or 1983. In 1897, we acquired 7a interest in the G.W. Sugar Factory west of Goodland along with the Kanarado and Goodland Co-ops. This facility will be used for extra grain storage. Many well known farmers of the area have through the years served on the Co-Op Board. Space and the fact that I don't know �Burlington's flour mill. l, u,1i $ &,# Y * wa" iai=-r'l' Present day Burlington Equity Co-op who they all were doesn't permit me to list them. I do have a list of the managers which I will list in order: Rinehart Hedding, W.W. Lumis, Herb Johnson, Walter Bauder, Fern Farnsworth, Bruce Channel, Oliver Service, Elmar Wilson, Otto Weiss, Arvard Burges, Dale Kelly, Curt Wood, Charles Bush, Joe Hughes, Don Berggram, Bob Peterson and supplies for its many members and commu- Tom Redman. From this humble beginning in 1915 and along with the cooperation of the members, 880 employees, management and the community, the Co-op has grown through thick and thin. Today it is a major business in the Burlington area with facilities to store 2 million bushels of grain, sell feed, fuel and many other nity. by Russ Davis FLOUR MILL November 25, 1903. Ten years ago this Thanksgiving day the Burlington Roller Mill first started. On November 8, 1893, J.L. Eaches arrived in our little town to start the new mill. After getting all the machinery in shape and everything ready, the first grist was manufactured on November 26, 1893. A run oftwo days each week during the first year was all the trade then demanded: but it had increased steadily, year by year until in 1901 new machinery was added to meet the increasing demand and capacity increased 40%. Opposition arose against its fast increasing trade, but like the swelling tide against the sturdy vessel, it had little effect - only to prove the old saying: "opposition is the life of trade," Renewed and strenuous efforts on the part of the faithful manager to introduce an unequaled quality in grades of flour to please the patrons had now brought the mill to what it was, running day and night that they might fill the orders ahead until the last of thc vear. Have our business men ever though how much they are indebted to the mill lor the growth in trade in our town? When the farmers receive cash for the produce they bring to the mill, they buy lumber, hardware, furniture, groceries and general merchandise, were it not for the mill the trade would go where they take their wheat and corn. We hope that the next ten year's trade will not only come to the mill from Tri-Milling Co. of Tenn., for several carloads, but also from many parts of the U.S. and while we do give thanks, at this time for other prosperity, do not let us forget to unite in a hearty good wish that long may be heard the whistle from the flour mill in our little town. (signed) A patron of the mill. Source not known but contributed by Lucy Russmann. HOTELS, MOTELS, CAMPS AND CAFES B81 fQU,rY ir : l There is no class of institutions throughout the whole category of business concerns which has so important a bearing upon the general character of a city as its hotels. These establishments have an individuality and to ';.;t.,,,,.' t,'i,,,iilt ':a::,,.:t Early day photo Burlington Co-op, taken about 1g21 Yarnell Hotel also known as the Hotel West. �the vast majority of traveling fraternity, a city is just what its hotels make it. In this connection special mention should be made of the New Burlington Hotel. This hotel was located one block west on Main Street. It was a substantial three-story stuccoed building, containing a number of neatly furnished and comfortable rooms all of which are provided with running water, steam heat and other conveniences. Bath accommodations had also been provided. A special feature of the house was the dining room, where they served choice, regular meals for fifty cents. The daily rate for a room was $1.00. The hotel was owned by R.C. Yarnell. Quick to take advantage of a new idea that would add to the comfort and convenience of his guests, and a man of wide experience of catering to the public was Harry L. Shank, the proprietor of Shanks Cafe and Rooms. Shank's Cafe and Rooms were located on South Main Street. The place was provided with both tables and a lunch counter, also Bill Hudler ran the paper until his death in 1956. Then his son John took over. Born in Iowa like his father, John attended the University of Iowa journalism school and THE BURLINGTON RECORD 882 Iowan. In1944, he bought the Record's competing paper, the Burlington Call, and the two paper's merged. He lived in Burlington for 62 years until he died in 1981. The Record moved from its original home in 1946, and has twice doubled its space; the first time with the purchase of an adjoining building, and the second with the construction of a new shop area in 1971. This year the Record building underwent lr a facelift as its entire exterior was remodeled. The Record was a pioneer in roll-fed offset for weeklies between Kansas City and the West Coast in 1965. The paper is currently run on a four-unit News King, along with two other eastern Colorado papers printed at the Burlington plant, the Flagler News and the Office of the Burlington Record in 1956. Wray Gazette. The Hudler family maintains a commercial booths. Frigidaire equipment throughout and every other equipment that was necessary to a first-class establishment of this printing business besides publishing the Record. John Hudler's wife, Maxine, at 73, remains kind. the head of the Record accounting department. Her son Rol and his wife Joy are They also had a number of comfortable rooms, which were rented at the rate of $.75 a night. currently co-publishers/editors of the paper, which has expanded impressively over the Shank's Cafe and Rooms was also the years. headquarters for the Atlantic and Pacific Stages, Inc. who operated two buses per day. Sunset Park Camp is located in Sunset Park, in the western section of Burlington, on U.S. Highway #40 North and State Highway #51. It was formerly operated by the city but was leased by Mr. O.A. Ross. It was situated on a beautiful elevation and was equipped with a number of semi-furnished cabins, the rooms having beds, springs, mattresses, tables and chairs, and in close proximity to these cabins is a cook house, shower bath and toilets. In connection with this camp is a filling station where they carry the famous Powerine gasoline and Power-Lube motor oils, also fancy groceries, cold drinks, cigars, tobacco, and confectionery. Although Mr. Ross had only had charge a short time in 1929, he was not new to the area, he had lived here for ten years prior. A publication professing to mention the resources and business interests of Burlington should contain mention of the East Side Tourist Camp, located in the eastern section of the city, on United States Highway 40 North and State Highway 51. The place contained 15 cabins, 8 of them with running water, and all partly furnished. It was originally established around 1925 and underthe ownership of C.F. Langendorfer for a year in 1929. He built a number of additional cabins and added the most mod- ern conveniences. He also operated a service station in connection, where he carried gasoline, motor oils, greases, fancy groceries, confectionery and campers' supplies. A man of philosophical mind once said that he could judge the character of the people by the restaurants of their city, and if this be true the people of Burlington have reason to be proud. One ofthe best equipped and most sanitary eating houses in eastern Colorado was Beatty's Cafe, situated on Main Street. This business was owned and managed by Mrs. Millie Beatty. worked as an apprentice printer for the Daily While the Burlington community has tripled in population since 1930, the Record's subscription list has gtown 51/z times, and its number of pages has grown eight times. Rol Hudler, perennially active in civic affairs, has served as mayor of Burlington for 20 years. Rol and Joy's oldest son John, 27, is Owner, John Hudler in 1956. advertising manager of the Record. Another son, Adrian, is a student at the University of Nebraska and works during vacations at the As part of the celebration of the 100-year anniversary of the National Newspaper Association, Publishers' Auxiliary has contacted newspapers around the country that have a long history of family ownership. These are the families that have carried on family business. the newspaper tradition for four or more generations or for more than 100 years. reported by David Van Pelt - When A.W. "Bill" Burlington, Colo. - Burlington RepubliHudler purchased the by Maxine lludler SCHAAL DRILLING COMPANY 883 can and Kit Carson County Record in 1928, the first thing he did was shorten its name. The paper became the Burlington Record, and it remains so 58 years and three generations later. Hudler was born in Audubon, Iowa, and entered the printing business at age 20 in the employ of the Audubon Republican. He later moved to South Dakota, and with his wife Martha, ran a homestead and published a claim paper. They came to Burlington in 1919 with their son John. Bill worked briefly for a land company and then as a printer before purchasing the Record, which had been in existence since 1889. Ruben Schaal owner of Schaal Drilling Company. tion to the weekly paper, which consisted of eight pages, four printed at the home plant Ruben Schaal Jr. married Linda McKinney in 1971 after serving two years with the U.S. Naly and working in various capacities in both the oil field and water well industries. In L972 they obtained financing to purchase the necessary equipment to pioneer what is and four of boiler plate printed in Denver by the old Western Newspaper Union. They have since constructed and equipped The Record survived the Depression and the Dust Bowl of the 1930s by consolidating with two other papers in the area. In those days $1 bought a year's subscrip- now known as Schaal Drilling Company. �over 1000 water wells for farmers and businesses in the Colorado and Kansas area. in addition to servicing domestic, irrigation, and municipal wells. Today, Ruben and Linda continue operating the family business with the active participation of their two sons, Warren, born in 1975, and Aaron, born in 1976. Perhaps the following poem written by Linda commemorating their 10th anniversary in 1982 best expresses what living and working in Kit Carson County has meant to the Ruben Schaal Jr. family: There are many fine professions that a man might choose to seek, but none of them could offer him a challenge so unique - for it has been a pleasure serving this community, providing top notch service through the drilling industry. - Growing with you farmers, our neighbors and our friends. has shown us more than anything, where life really begins. - We're proud to live in Burlington!, We're proud of what we do! - We say, in all sincerity, we're proud we work for you! by Linda Schaal COLORADO - KANSAS GRAIN COMPANY 884 the company has elevators in Lamar and Carlton, Colorado as well as Burlington and Idalia. The company is licensed and bonded automobile technicians and consultants. thus being required to be able to obtain certain high-tech models. Corn, wheat, milo and barley are all stored for both the government and area producers. As $15,000.00, therefore leasing has become more popular and will become tomorrow's automobile business. in accordance with the State of Colorado Agricultural Department and the U.S.D.A. well as elevator storage, Colorado-Kansas Grain Company has been instrumental in merchandising grain off area farms offering Incorporated, June of 1982, Colorado-Kansas Grain Company is wholly owned by William Pictured, an aerial view of Colorado-Kan- sas Grain Company, Burlington facility, taken in the fall of 1987. Built in September, 1985 with storage capacity well over two million bushel, by Fall, 1987, had increased their capacity in Kit Carson County over two fold with the use of contemporary ground storage. The land, purchased from the City of Burlington and financed with Industrial Development Revenue Bonds, is located in the industrial sub-division of Burlington along the Kyle Railroad. The City of Burlington built the unit train trackage which extends beyond the company boundaries. In August, 1986, Colorado-Kansas Grain Company purchased g acres of land and scales at ldalia, Colorado from Great Western Sugar Company, increasing their total storage capacity to over 8,000,000 bushel. With headquarters in Lamar, Colorado, B86 O. Broyles of Lamar, Henry A. "Shay" Mockelman, Jr. of Cheyenne Wells, William D. Grasmick, Inc. of Granada, and Larry Hostetler of Burlington. by Sandy Harmon VINCE'S CHEV - OLDS - cAD, rNC. 885 Sim Hudson Motor Co. became the first Chewolet dealership in Burlington, Colorado in 1923. Prior to that, Sim Hudson owned his first automobile garage at 463 13th St. which is currently Duerst Machine Works. At that time, a small portion of the existing building were the only improvements, that of which originally was a livery stable. There he had automobile storage and sold Whippels. In 1923, Sim moved his business to the Sim was always a great promoter, such as the Knee-action parade ofthe 1934 Chevrolet automobiles, introducing their new suspensions. Also the celebration after the Roosevelt Logo for Colorado-Kansas Grain Company. CALDWELL'S INC. is Delmer Zeigler of Bethune, Colorado. Burlington. Petroleum products also became a large part of his business. 1987. by Jana Schreivogel the farmer additional competitive marketing for farm stored grains. Branch manger for the Burlington facility current location at L332 Senter Ave. in Pictured, an aerial view of Colorado-Kansas Grain Company, Burlington facility, taken in the fall of The average automobile today is election in which Sim and Ed Weinandt wagered $4,000.00. The money was used to throw a big party for everyone in the area. This included free lunch at noon, a free picture show from noon until midnight, a parade featuring four bands from around the area, and two free dances . . one at each armory. Eldon Snowbarger was hired by Sim Hudson in 1948, and later became a dealer partner with Sim's wife, Hazel, in 1960 following Sim's death. The Cadillac and Oldsmobile lines were added in the early 1960's. On July 1, 1984, Sim Hudson Motor Co. was purchased by Vince and Jana Schreivogel and became Vince's Chev-Olds-Cad, Inc. Through the years the automobile business has changed a great deal. Todays business requires a larger staff with great qualifications because of high technology. Now, in 1988, our business requires features such as: Telemarketing - telephone communica- tions directly to the manufacturer without the use of traveling representatives. In-house computers - used in the bookkeeping and parts departments and includes vehicle locator, vehicle ordering, service bulletins, and warranty claim submis- sion. Video Network - training and testing of Caldwell's Inc. 1988, the store has been operating since 194?. ',t k I Caldwell's in 1956. J.M. Caldwell, owner of Caldwell's Inc., made his way through high school by working nights at the Goodland, Kansas, power plant in the early 1920's. The knowledge and experience gained there enabled him to do a great deal of wiring when the rural areas began to acquire electricity. In 1928 he was able to open his own store in Goodland at the age of 25. Shortly after World War II, Dick Brock was hired to construct a 1300 sq. ft. building at t7L2 Rose Avenue in Burlington and in 1947 it opened for business selling appliances, butane and propane. The first manager was Bill Robinson followed by Wes Heinrich and Gene Wilson. In the fall of 1954, after serving in the Korean conflict, Don Caldwell, his wife Jeanne, and their year old daughter, Debbie, moved to Burlington and Don took over the managerial duties. Another daughter, Dawn Ann, was born in December 1955. A drive-in cafe west of the original building was purchased in the 1950's and in 1959 Charlie Sholes built in between and connec- ted the two buildings, and furniture was added to the appliance business. Another addition was then added to the west and the square footage was increased to just under 10,000. Ron Wendler has been emploved with �Caldwell's since 1958. There have been many changes since the first store opened sixty years ago, but one thing that has not changed over the years, according to Don, is the friendly, caring people of Burlington and the surrounding community. by Don Caldwell KNAB RADIO KNAB Radio went on the air on JulY 11, 1967. Thus began a new era for Eastern Colorado and especially Burlington, Colorado, for now it has it's own local radio station. Progress has come to this area thanks to Mr. Al Ross who started this station as owner and operator. The call letters of this station were derived from the following. The letter K signifies west of the Mississippi and the letters NAB stand for the National Board of Broadcasters. The signal begins at sunrise and ends at sunset for this 1.000 watt AM station' In 19?4 Al Ross sold the station to KNAB' Inc. In 1980 KNAB FM began it's broadcast day at 6:00 a.m. to midnight. It first age{ on March 7, 1980. On April4,L972, Good Friday, a tremendous ice storm did $26,000 damage to the lines and buildings. The tower was blown down due to the collection of four inches of ice and accompanying winds clocked at 60 miles per hour. KNAB went back on the air by the use of copper wire strung between two telephone poles. The signal had to be adjusted constantly due to the stretching of the copper wire due to the temperature variations throughout the day. The present tower is 406 feet high' Miss Betty Bailly came to Burlington in 196? to operate the station. In 1984 Betty Bailly bought out one of the three remaining stockholders of the station. In September of 198? Betty and Mr. Lockhart purchased the remaining shares. Ray Lockhart has interests in KSTC in Sterling, Colorado, and KOGA in Ogallala, Nebraska. The format of KNAB programming provides a variety of music and news to maintain a middle of the road format with an emphasis on agriculture concerns and news for the industry of the area. agribusiness -KNAB is an affiliate of the ABC network. BURLINGTON CENTENNIAL PARADE 1988 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource History of Kit Carson County Description An account of the resource Brief historical stories and elements from the founding and recent history of Kit Carson County, Colorado. Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Book Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Businesses Date Created Date of creation of the resource. 1988 Subject The topic of the resource history Description An account of the resource A history of local businesses within Kit Carson County as recorded in the book History of Kit Carson County. Type The nature or genre of the resource text Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Salmons, Janice Hasart, Marlyn Smith, Dorothy Language A language of the resource English Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. History of Kit Carson County Volume 1 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource text/pdf Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Curtis Media Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/</a> https://kccarchives.cvlcollections.org/files/original/16/405/Bethune.pdf 4874ea5184ac1a8b81811debde07b4c3 PDF Text Text HISTORY OF BETHUNE \r.i t-al -,u:J I \PA @ t& T24l | :6J Fa3 ii* zltydoa /rbrry (Z€45e) t4GCog t/ C. 17'/- lt-{z';<z l, t& /) I l'2 t^ \ a) *; A--' \./rt | :a - --J- B-:- lrf HISTORY OF BETHUNE tu .'t:' :1;i. /6 i j"t ' ,'€cus to Indianole, Nebraska stopping at the old Benkelman Ranch near the present town of T242 a 640 l- &sl*& ,?efce - : )- -*-- I Aas/tn w :!.:: &'a :r/@ I | Taurbu4 I I t6a 3\ ?40 Aaa F€, ,t& &tlet .{& -( G,-L; ',*h"fr Satah R nr*fAleaza 82d I '% /-tzz" fi fu4'/2. ,1 lecunlu ,/ny 6, Ctaner ,6d /60 ; T/te Eelhune Iou Ca u*,r, "eQ.ge ./60 L jao n /Ya4 A -l$ 'fugerze t60 5E l4amer #v;r \1@ YunzgSo f.*ry/A ./@ lol/izs I /t)//tbaza '-;;; z (/tnlen- I ":{:'4 :{-l | ["* ^rt't q5rt Chzs $_ a. /uo/i, fpabr ffi f. klt .': - ,/f\ : -_ : -_ +_ -:; t& .J@ F.n h? t$o , lii*". b/ler.$i -{60 ?..F€ frank L1", 32O -, -u.6t 160 t.f 6jc 77?lmer rc cr-\r L(J .i. .:.. ..'-dtli... t t t.,'O.: lt24 r I 4/66;r l"ftxtzvaod '.1 I Bethune, Bethune being French for farmer or farming. Dutch Jake shot Buffalo and also trapped fur animals. He would take the hides tt// Ri/4r Schoa/ land 35 634 fup.-"* ,*._ I 36 64a , \ 1908 water tower serving the Rock Island R.R., Bethune. St. Francis. Kansas. He would visit with Mr. Benkelman. Mr. Benkelman would say "Vee 3ehtz Laundsman?", which became the name Part 1 Bethune first got it's name in 1886 from the first settlers and first trappers. Dutch Jake, an indian who lived in a cave Northeast of Bethune, used to tell people he lived by Lost Man Creek (presently called Landsman Creek). It was to French trappers he told of lor "Landsman Creek", October 3, 1928, the United States Geographic Board rendered this decision regarding the creek in Kit Carson County to be the "Landsman Creek". When the Rock Island Railroad was built through Bethune in September 1888, railway sectionmen built a section house just West of town. The section foreman, J. B. Pfaffley, moved into the house in 1897 with his wife and daughter Erma. Erma later became Postmaster from 1920 to 1962. An Indian burial ground was located Northeast of Bethune on the Landsman �.: now lives on First Avenue and Main Street. In 1932, Bank failure and depression caused the bank to close it's doors. Later a store was run in the bank building by Arthur Cassen. Mr. Kingsbury ran the store later, and Walter Seelhoff after him unitl it closed it's doors and was torn down. Across the street and to the North, Mr. Carr and Bill Stutz also had l a store. Among the businesses built in Bethune in the early 1900's was a lumber yard opened by Carl Alexander. A hardware store owned by Carl Alexander, was located west of the lumberyard. These were located across the street from what is now the Bethune Grain elevator. A Farmers elevator was built by the 'l1l'i t. ,: ,t;., farmers and run by Tom Dillon; It burned in 1925, was rebuilt in 1926 and enlarged in 1936 and again in 1949. Cora Lovelace opened a Cafe in her home, which operated until 1940. This was located next to the Yersin store. On the north side of the Cafe, a pool hall was opened. Jim Erveu built the Hotel in 1920. This was next to the pool hall and Bank building. Bill Chapman bought it, later his son Earl bought it. Ethel Smith ran a Telephone office and soda. by Clara Mayers Aerial photo of Bethune about 1950. Several graves were explored in 1920 by several pioneers. They found Indian blankets, tomahawks, knives and various trinkets. In 1889, Elbert County was divided and Bethune fell in the portion forming Kit Carson County. Bethune established the first school district in Kit Carson County in 1889. The first school board members were Sam Beidelman and Dr. C.A. Gillette whose office was located in Bethune. The school house occupied the Southwest corner of the present school grounds. A well there supplied water for all the town residents. Mrs. Della Hendricks, who later became County Superintendent, was Bethune's first school teacher. In 1926 a new school house was constructed on eight acres purchased from Mr. Delaney. The HISTORY OF BETHUNE townspeople and those of surrounding areas decided to add two years of high school to the curriculum. Luella O'Hare and Ray Boggs taught the first high school classes in the T243 school year t927-28. The school had six teachers and 90 students. .U,r.. l:i:t. :irtlr.' ::l'i Bethune's first store was a combination General Store and Post Office owned by William Yersin in 1910. It was a small sod building located south of the present townsite on the south side of Highway 24. "fhe ,"'i "li' _r l.t ..- ':.. store was moved in 1916, it was then located where the Duane Monroe home now stands on the corner of Pikes Peak and Main Street. The Bethune State Bank opened it's doors in 1916. The Bank president and owner was J.J. Delaney with William Steur, cashier. It was located where the Dean Fisher familv '::l', aiti,',,%. )....,:tat: \"1 1i,: ::.:. ,''rl .:.i..r,. :l:ltil lri.l.. r'r:l .,::1..'\liili: :li, ']]:: . ::ir::,,i,.'::ii'. 2 lt::i:l '::,;:l t,* ,.,.,ti! ryl Earl Chapman's first garage 1925. t -.# Part 2 Fountain in the Chapman Hotel. Tom Davis started agarage in 1920 on what is now Pikes Peak Avenue West of the Monroe ,i; First store and post office in Bethune, Yersin Store. home. It had living quarters above it at the time, it still stands. The Barber Shop was built by Everett Blackburn, it was on First Avenue and Main Street across from the first Post Office. In 1921, the livery barn was built. �rtr::i:.r li:.t. rt }till&.iitr, '; ',11. ';1,;1;11; twice a day. Mail was hung so a catcher on the mail car of the train could pick it up as the train went by. Ted Knodel, who had been carrying mail as a tri-weekly on the south route since September 1924, took over Route 1 and carried until July 1965 when he retired. Albert Amman carried Route 2. the triweekly route since 1936. The routes consolidated in 1966 to an 86-mile route, which covered both the north and south routes. Albert Amman continued to carry until 1971, when he retired. The route was then changed to a Highway Contract Route and Carl Adolf Jr. became the mail carrier. Bethune has again grown in the last few years from a population of 52 in 1962 to around 200 in 1985. It has one garage owned and run by Johnny Johnson, the Bethune Grain Co. owned and run by Charles Schulte, Onahue Trucking Co. run by Bill Powell, and ofcourse the Post Office and school. Bethune has an accredited school with grades ranging from Kindergarden through twelve. James Poole has been the superintendent since 1964. The following is a recollection of some Celebrating Armistice Day in the 1920's on Main Street in Bethune. It was where the David Richards home now stands on Second Avenue and A Street. The Baptists held Sunday School and Church services in the school house until 1924. Then they had Mr. Arnet build the church. In L927 it was purchased by the Evangelical Congregation. The pastor from Stratton held services. The town of Bethune was incorporated in L926. ln t924, The Post Office was built. Erma (Pfaffley) Cordonnier was the first Postmaster until March 1962 when she retired. Clord Meyer built the present Post Office in 1962. Clara Meyer served as Postmaster from April 1, 1962 until April 1985, when she retired. Kathy Witzel is the new Postmaster since April 1, 1985. The townspeople built a City Park by their water tower, later a new park was started northeast of it's former site. The townspeople called their growing town "The Land of Opportunity" and put up a sign proclaiming that fact West of town. It drew customers and visitors. But the depression and bank failure in 1932 brought a marked halt to Bethune's upward climb. People were forced to sell out and move away, rapidly decreasing the population. By 1936 Bethune still had a hardware store, lumber yard, general store, two cafe's, a railroad depot, two grain elevators, a filling station, and two garages. Because the County seat was in Burlington, most people went there to do their trading. Eventually most businesses went out of business. The first mail carrier was Jesse McFarland. He carried Route 1 starting in July 1911, a 36 mile route by one horse and top buggy. Later a regular mail wagon such as was in use at that time, was used and drove two horses. He resigned in 1915. Tom Dillon carried until 1920. Roy Smith took over and carried until his death in 1935. In the early years, it would take two days to get mail delivered if there was a lot of snow. Mail came by a fast train people, and their families, who might not now have any connection in Kit Carson County. John & Gladys Argebright, Orla Anderson, H. H. Ernest, "Billy" Lamm, John Robinson, C. C. Tony, Mike Golden, Hugh Rouse, Charles Hopson, Dr. Dickey, L. Youtsey, L. Doughty, Ed Chipman, "Shorty" Stephen, Bertha King, Harry Roberson, C. L. Spahr, Dvoraks, Charles & Johnny Day, Noah SydeBotham, Fred Kasten, C. W. Sawyer, Fred Buchholz, Roy Smith, John Burns, Debakeys, Amos & Ida Holland, Charles Chandler, Walt & Anita Baer, Charles & George Baer, Thomas Davis, Elwood Richards, Cora Lovelace, Bill & Norma Negus, Art & Mary Haviland, Bruce Davis, Bill ZiegIer, Fletcher Vilott, Austin Johnson, Truman Hightower, B. K. Springer, Bill Stutz, Balls, Carl Mitchel, Harry Brogun, Jake Gramm, Charles Evens, Robert Wilburn, Critchfields, Leo & Nan Kindsvater, Floren Kuhn, Ralph Humrick, Henry Fanslow, John & Jesse Thomas, "Shorty" Stockwell, Henry & Esther Daum, Preston Simer, "Swede" Johnson, Iver & Ever Iverson, Eugene & Iris Taylor, Claude Zimmerman, Clark Rutter, Logan Stitt, J. J. Delaney, Charles Short, Bob Gaddy, Ericksons, Brownawells, Sanstedts, Lynns, Art & Fern Cassen, Millers, Clotiers, Henry Kline, Herb Kukuk, Glen Chapman, Ed Bower, Truman Hooker, Emil & Pauline Knodel, Fred Rock, E. H. Mitchel, Harold & Velora Hopkins, E. L. Kingsbury, Floyd Mills, Bill Ratuke, Oscar Olson, Ira Rowbothan, Chance Humphry, John Halter, John Kible, Mrs. Connor, Joe Reese, "Rusty" Evans. I'm sure that being gone from Bethune for over 30 years has dimmed my memory and some have been forgotten. by Clara Meyer and Donald L. Chapman Bethune Lumber Company. In the 1920's when Bill Stutz worked there. �across from Hotel and a little south. On the south side of the building it had a hitch rack, where farmers gathered. Also there were horse shoe pits on the south side. The farmers BUSINESS IN BETHUNE T244 These are memories of Dean A. Chapman, 2nd son of Earl & Blanche Chapman born in Burlington in 1921. Grocery Stores: Dan Carr, east of Main St., Bethune Grain Co. owned by Charlie Schulte,1988. came in from the settlement and south of town. They would arrive at about 10:00 AM and leave around 3:00 to 4:00 PM. They traded produce, eggs, chickens and cream. This store was later run by August Helcher, who after a couple years moved across the street west. Art Cassen purchased the store from Helcher's widow. He later moved the store to the Bethune State Bank Building. This store was then run by Mr. Kingsbury during W.W.2, then was sold to Walter Seelhoff, and then closed in 1954. W. T. Chapman ran a store in the front of the Hotel from 1920 till 1935. Bill Yearsin ran a store just south of the Post Office, later sold to Bill Stutz, later sold to Charles Helcher, brother of August Helcher, who later changed it to a Shoe & Clothing store. This building was later used for a residential use. Black Smith Shops: O. J. Speaks due west of Bank building. J. G. Walgamott built his shop just east of Earl Chapman's Garage on *w,*"*Enm srnr,slB ",*iryFj, . .,),,, Elevator. Creameries: The first Creamery was next door, east of Tom Davis Garage. Art Gramm ran one across the street, south of the Davis Garage. Kingsbury built a creamery between the Bank and the Hotel. Elevators: The first was the Robinson elevator across the street, south of the Davis Garage, run by Ben Pyle, later leased by Henry Daum. The Farmers Elevator was on the south end of Main Street, first run by Thomas Dillon, then owned by Henry Daum, later sold to the Bethune Co-op. The East Elevator was built in the late 1930's by O. E. Powell, run by Preston Symer, later sold to Bethune Co-op. Garages: The first was built by Tom Davis, probably built in the late teens, who had Walt Baer as a partner, with Charles Dvorak as salesman and mechanic. They sold ChevroIets. This garage closed in 1934. The second garage was built by Earl Chapman (who was a mechanic for Evans Brothers in Burlington, later Sim Hudson Motor Co.). This small building was just west of Post Office. Earl's second garage was built in 1925 across the street east of the lumber yard, on the north side of the old highway. Along with his garage, he furnished electrical power for the Town of Bethune. Each home was allowed one sixty watt bulb. He would at 5:00 P.M. fill and start the generator and it would run until it ran out of gas, which usually lasted dkmo,., from 9:00 to 10:00 in the evening. Each family helped pay for the gas, this was a one cylinder Delco plant. In 1931 Earl built the building on US 24. In 1956 Earl and his sons Dean, Vernon, Donald and son-in-law Neil Springer, moved this business to Paonia Co. The Bethune business was sold to Bill Storrer. This building later burned. Filling Stations: Both garages sold gas. In 1932, Tom Davis built a new station on U.S. 24, on the south west edge of town, later run by Fred Kasten, Bill Wilcox and others.. In 1932 Glen Chapman opened up a station in the old barber shop across the street from the Post Office. Bethune had the oldest Conoco bulk gasoline agency in CO in numbers of years. Earl Chapman was the agent from 1924 Bethune State Bank check, 1920's. i to 1956. {F,r"*- The poolhall, recreation parlor and barber shop was just south of the Nebraska Hotel and was run by Bill Evens. The Bethune State Bank was started by J.J. Delaney in 1916. William C. Steur was the last cashier, and the bank closed in 1931. EA,ffiH ': i,:.,, . t :t.: the old highway, just across from the East i. :... ,e4* by Don Chapman : BETHUNE POST OFFICE T245 Route 1 started in July 1909 as a 36 mile Route with Mr. Jess McFarland as carrier. He carried the mail in a top buggy pulled by one :::it .. e.. -# horse. Later, he got a regular mail wagon. These wagons were in use at the time and were pulled by two horses. Mr. McFarland resigned in April of 1915. Tom Dillon started carrying the mail and continued until 1920 *%*{-q - when he resigned. Martin Stahlecker was the temporary carrier taking over the duties until Chapman Garage. Don Chapman, Leo Kindsvater and Vern Chapman. Roy Smith took the route on. He delivered �Yersin, September L2, t9L0; Edward L. Newton, June2,l9ll;Albert L. Bell, January 18, 1917; William H. Yersin, April 20, 1917; Erma Cordonnier, October 18, 1920; Clara Meyer, April 1,1962;and Kathy Witzel, April covered by insurance. The Burlington Call, November L2. 1925. by Anna Strobel 1, 1985. A poem composed by Mrs. C. W. Sawyer of Burlington paid tribute to Mrs. Erma Cordonnier, retiring postmaster at Bethune. Mrs. Cordonnier recently retired after 42 years service in postal department. The Poem follows: RETIRED In eastern Colorado in the town ofBethune In the year 1920, two months after June, A new postmaster started her career, Her name - Mrs. Erma Cordonnier. At that time the mail had to go Thru rain. sleet. hail or snow. Smith, Knodel, then Amman, on the RFD Carried the mail to and from the country. When Erma wished to take off a day or more Thru 41 years she had subs galore. Pfaffly, Ardueser, Evans and Casten, Woods, Chapman, Helscher and Batson. Klein, Knodel, Springer and Taylor. The last two, Bucholz and Sawyer. March 31. 1962. Erma retired. 41 long years she had worked and perspiRoy Smith delivering the mail out of Bethune, Colorado. about 1935. red; So, Erma, it's time to say adieu And all our best wishes go with you. by Clara Meyer FARMERS ELEVATOR T246 i"%.*;". \d! *- New Bethune Post Office opened in October of 1986, Kathy Witzel Postmistress. the mail until he died in October of 1935. A fire Wednesday morning completely destroyed the Farmers Elevator at Bethune, Colorado. The building caught fire from a stove in the office and as there was no water system in the town the flames made rapid headway. A call for help was phoned to Burlington and the fireman with both trucks left at once, but the damage was wrought when they arrived at the scene of the fire ten miles away. About ten thousand bushel of wheat stored in the elevator was practically all damaged. It was reported that the loss was Claude Zimmerman was temporary carrier for a year, then Ted Knodel took over the route on September 8, 1936. The route had been extended to 43.6 miles by that time. T247 In 1899, Bethune Colorado organized the first school district in Kit Carson County. The original school was located on the west side of County Road 40, directly west of the present school grounds. Dr. C. A. Gillette and Sam Beidelman were the first school board members. Mrs. Della Hendricks was their first teacher. In 1926 it was decided to purchase eight acres of land from a Mr. Delaney, and it was on this land that the present schoolhouse sits, being completed in 1928. It was decided that there would be two years ofhigh school taught in this new school, so they began to teach Freshman and Sophomores along with the grade school. Luella O'Hare and Ray Boggs taught the first high school classes in 1927-28. At that time there were a total of 6 teachers and 90 students. The first class to "graduate" from Bethune School was in 1930. A basement was dug east of the school and this was used as the cafeteria for many years. Later, the old Prairie Star School from south of Bethune was moved onto this basement. The upper floor was used for a teacherage, the basement for the cafeteria, and the middle floor as the Superintendent's home. In 1955 the cafeteria was moved to the main school building, and a beautiful large gymnasium was added to the west side of the original schoolhouse. InIg74,a separate shop building was added, also on the west side. Mr. Orin Pankratz was the first to call this "home". Kindergarten was instituted in 1g74. The year 1978 saw Bethune School become accredited, under the direction and guidance of Mr. James Poole. Bethune School fielded its first football team in 1983 to add to the volleyball, basketball and track programs already in progress. New additions to the school also include a . Route 2 started on Septembet L7,1924 as a 36 mile tri-weekly with Ted Knodel as carrier until September 8, 1936 when he was transferred to Route 1. Albert Amman who was the temporary carrier, took on the route and delivered the mail until May 7, 1966 when the routes were consolidated. Albert continued carrying the mail until September 30, 1971. Albert Weiss was temporary carrier until the Star Route was established on November L, 1972. Carl Adolf Jr. was awarded the contract for the Star Route and is the present mail carrier. Postmasters through the years were Sam- uel Beidelman, January 1889; Josephine Parody, July 23, 1890; Emma Mutchmore, September 19, 1890; John Griswold, December 8, 1891; Mary E. Braden, September 27, t892; Margaret Gruwell, June 4, 1896; Nancy Root, April 5, 1899; John Lamb, October 15, t901; William Blake, September 17, 1906; Iohn McFarland, March 1"5, 1909; William H. BETHUNE SCHOOL Farmer's Elevator at Bethune, burned to the ground. �Humrich, Don Noxon, Arthur Adolf, Eugene Rowbothem, Mary (Smith) Stahlecker, Maxine (Helcher) McCoy, Ethel (Kasten) Dragiff, Irene (Adolf) McAuliff; 1937 - Aletha lll'i (Woods) Taylor, Delores (Chapman) Grant, Raymond Ray, Iris (Rouse) Taylor; 1938 Gladys (Adolf) Patterson, Nina (Dunlap) Lanham, Harry Olson, Anna Dvorak, Dean Chapman, Stanford Ernest; 1939 - Hilda (Ratenka) Vilott, Loren Ardueser, Fern (Knodel) Gremm, Norman Meyer, Mary Louise (Dillon) Schemfsll' 1940 - Wallace Eslinger, Gladys (Schaal) Byington, Harold Rouse, Stanley Sydebotham, Virgil King; 1941 - Robert Knodel, Blanche (Stolz) Beckstrom, Vernon Chapman, Janet (Dillon) Toland, John Burns; 1942 - Velma (Eslinger) Sweet, Sylvia (Kiebel) Malone, Mabel (Meyer) Bishop; 1943 - Raymond Knodel, Doris (Gulden) Travis, Helen (Gulden) ,r;*1r;l111,.;r,11, .,.1.11.:.,11'' 11'.1 Schaal, Eleanor (Ardueser) Dreitz, Dixie (Wood) Conkey, Ruth (Spahn) Jensen, Rueben Zeigler; L944 - Alvin Buchholz, Steve Sydebotham, John Critchfield, Owen Powell; 1945 - George Baer, Viola (Humrich) Critchfield, Lewis Parsons, Elsie (Miller) Powell, Dr. Earl Berens, Thelma (Kirkendall) Young, .'.''.'l:.'.::..il'rr' I:":,l Mary Louise (Dreitz) Waechter; 1946 - Bethune Public School, grades K through 12. 1988 Joanne (Guy) Wolf, Russell Knodel, Peggy (Wood) Jensen, Ardith Gulden, Rona (Spahr) Shaner; L947 - Donald Chapman, William Stolz, Roberta (Guy) Kindred, Eleanor (Knodel) Thomas; 1948 - Norman Kramer, Marge (Chapman) Springer, Lorena (Kramer) Buchholz, Ivan Amman, Ruby (Buchholz) Butterfield;1949 - Gene Amman, Jeanette (Knodel) Amman, Henry Stolz, Melvin Berens, Della (Adolf) Pugh; 1950 - Max Kramer, Clarine (Stahlecker) Fergus; 1951 - Eva (Adolf) Wood, Marvin Buchholz, Maureen (Amman) Felger, Ernest Ziegler, Gerald Johnson. Paul Knodel: 1952 - Lucille (Schlichenmayer) Krnmer, James Miles, Esther (Richards) Young, Bob Young, Vernon Stolz, Ed Kramer; 1953 - Wesley Eslinger, Eilert Weiss, Willard Stahlecker, Delos Amman, Irene (Kramer) Hilt, Bill Stewart, Allan Adolf, Ernest Adolf, Hazel (Hicks) Adolf; 1954 - Lela:rd Ernest, Loyd Knodel, Lester Powell, Aldene (Weiss) Beringer, Bethune School looking east. large library, computer room, upgraded office space, and an addition on the Superintendent's home. A large grassed area was made into a new playground with new equipment installed in 1984. It should be noted that Mr. James Poole, Superintendent, and his wife, Nora came to the Bethune School District in 1964. a position he holds to the present day. In 1988, there are 105 students attending Bethune School with 12 teachers on the staff. The school board consists ofFrank Ruhs, Art Waitman, Pat Williams, James Cummons, and George Stahlecker. by Marylyn Hasart BETHUNE SCHOOL GRADUATES T248 1931 - Hilda (Adolf) Ziegler, Agnes (Dvo- rak) Berthiaume, Janet (Mitchell) Moore; L932 - Amanda (Adolf) Richards, Leona (Adolf) Hefner, Harold Chipman, Crystal (Hartsook) Schlosser; 1933 - Ethel (Chipman) Pearce, Dallas Chipman, Howard Rouse, Carlos Dillon, Lillian (Dvorak) Wil- der, Pauline (Sandstedt) Dillon, Dorothy (Erickson) Rictichy, David Richards; 1934 Earl Perry, Lester Mitchell; 1935 - Marie (Perry) Hasenbalg, Alvin Ernest, Eleanor (Ernest) Varce, Dale Chapman, Opal (Esling- er) Schaal, Melvin Eslinger; 1936 - Dale Geraldine (Schlichenmayer) Carter, Duaine Richards, Phyllis (Waitman) Brown, Narieta (Ziegler) Hines, Kenneth McArthur, Darlene (Ziegler) Hendricks, Paul Jacobs, Edna (Schall) Fross, Bonnie (Johnson) Moorhead, Alfred Schritter; 1955 - Philip Stolz; 1956 Phyllis (Schlichenmayer) Hall, James Schlichenmayer, Donna Kay (Richards) Powell, Barbara (Schick) Briggs, Viva (Eslinger) Witzel, Margie (Stahlecker) Schneider, Leo Rutter, Geraldine (Zieeler) Weiss, Eileen (Waitman) Wahl, Leroy Arends; 1957 - Alice (Knodel) Gramm, Verlin Taylor, Louise (Adolf) Schlichenmayer, Rose Marie (Leik- am) Gwinn, Dorsey Carroll; 1958 - Iva (Stahlecker) Crist, Elaine (McArthur) Taylor, Donald Ziegler, Norman Arends, Arlene (Waitman) Nider, Bonnie (Matthies) Covey, Leona (Leikam) Brunmeir, Arthur Waitman; 1959 - Delmar Zeigler, Beulah (Stahlecker) Lambert, Mary (McArthur) Harris, Jerry Meyer; 1960 - Charlene (Taylor) Robinson, Roy Schlichenmayer, Jerome Warner, Maryln (Schick) Tofoya, Dr. Larry Weiss, Doris (Kramer) Barchanger, Ralph Stolz, Nolan Carroll, Judy (Schlichenmayer) Carroll, Clord Adolf, Virgil Eslinger, Celestina (Leikam) Brown; 1961 - Wilford Adolf, David Corliss, Darlene (Ruhs) Yates, Sue �(Dower) McDonald, Betty (McArthur) Barker, Annette (Stahlecker) Scherre, Ivan Stahlecker; L962 - Art Taylor, Marie (Schaal) Eslinger, Clord Meyer, Ruth Corliss, Julia (Leikam) Fox, Joan (Adolf) Carroll; 1963 - Linda (Taylor) Barnhart, Evelyn (Ruhs) Kelly, Ruby (Eslinger) Hundertmark, Mary (Richards) Colglazier, George Gramm, Dennis Moore, Paulette (Powell) Brachtenbach, Phoebe (Schauer) Friston, Jerry Jenkins; 1964 - Jane (Guy) Downing, Margaret (Kaplan) Stripes, Dorothy (Meyer) Soward, Elizabeth (Blagg) Wolfe, Frank Ruhs, Dennis Arends; 1965 - Gerald Ardueser, Annabel (Eslinger) Nickolson, Edwin Guy, Jerry Guy, David Hillman, Peggy (Matthies) Clark, Rick Young, Fred Zeigler; 1966 - Linda (Moore) Stolz, Fred Shauer, Marsha (Carroll) Rau, James Rau, Timothy Ardueser, Jean Stahlecker, Elaine (Weiss) Morrow, John Kuhn, Dale Schlichenmayer; 1967 - Grant Guy, Dianne (Stolz) Cox, Virginia (Leikam) Wright, Carl Schaal, Tom Rau, Troy Williams, Allan Weiss, Fred Matthies; 1968 - Janis Ardueser, Linda (Guy) Rau, Linda (Matthies) McDaniel, Linda (Schlichen- mayer) Coles, Everett Matthies, Eric Martell, Roy Williams; 1969 - Art Martell, Carolyn (Matthies) Martell, Terry Young, Rita (VanTassel) Hendon, Joe Leikam, Kathy (Dreitz) Hermann, Arlinda (Adolf) Thomas, Ronald Gramm, Anne (Guy) Cody, Don Kraus; 1970 - Velda Adolf, Karen (Adolf) Baird, Dale Jenkins, Lynne Powell, Jackie (Williams) Critchfield, Terry Weisshaar; 1971 - Loraine (Ardueser) Beeson, Judy (Dreitz) Garrison, Carl Jenkins, James Dobler, Bill Kraus, Victor Bill Powell, Fred Gramm, Roy Schlichenmayer, Beverly (Weiss) Ruhs; 1972 Nina (Elsey) Powell, Ellen (Guy) Eastin, Dean Matthies, Gene Matthies; 1973 - JoAnn (Gramm) Barber, Kathy (Kramer) Jenkins, Sherry (Kramer) Friesth, Pat Williams, Eugene Weiss, Ernest VanTassell, Verlin Corliss, Doyle Adolf; 1974 - Judy (Kramer) Whipple, Betty (Matthies) Ganser, Randy Dreitz, Tom Schlichenmayer, Raymond Dobler; 1975 - Mark Beringer, Curt Graham, Trudy (Elsey) Powell, Sandra (Hardwick) Wade; 1976 - Nadine Corliss, Lacey (Hansen) Stokley, Dalene (Knodel) Enyart, Glen Heidschmidt, Kerry Stahlecker, Millie (Leikam) Brawley, Steve Kramer, Kathy (Adolf) Witzel; 1977 - Wayne Adolf, Ronnie Dreitz, David Rutledge, Vicky (Crouse) Cox, Ralene (Dobler) Adams, Carol (Kindred) Keil, Shelly (Powell) Mangus, Karen (VanTassel) Loganbill, Pam (Kramer) Mills; 19?8 - Pam (Adolf) Burton, Connie (Beringer) Peterson, Brent Crouse, Scott Crouse, Lisa (Hardwick) White, Cecilia (Leikam) Criswell, David Poole, Dan Wahl; 1979 - Scott Powell, Barry Crouse, Stanley Kramer, Lori (Brown) Nordorf, Janet (Poole) Cure, Tammy (Crites) McGuire, Brenda Hanson, Maurice (Dreitz) Weyerman; 1980 - Tryn (Hendricks) Pizel, Dora Crouse, Sharla (Beringer) Troyer, - Charlene (Adolf) Flock, Lisa (Beechley) Mullis, Lisa Monroe, Lora (VanTassell) Burnet, Robin (Smith) Smith, Kenneth McArthur, Dawn (Harrell) Kramer, Matt Corcoran, Rick Monroe, Jerry Loeffler; 1985 - John Stolz, James Eslinger, Rhonda Waitman, Greg Zieglet, James Stolz, Mike Price, Nancy Weiss; 1986 - Angie Davis, Deanna Stahlecker, Debra Waitman, Michael Crites, Deanne (Dreitz) Heskitt, Darron Lightle, Dawn Adolf, Esther Schlichenmayer; 1987 Shelle Davis, Deanna K. Stahlecker, James Stahlecker, Scott Webb. by Amanda Richards INTRODUCTION TO BETHUNE CHURCHES T249 the pastor, and served until November 1902. Rev. Newman H. Hawkins served for the year 1903. On March lst, 1094, B. S. Hughes came as pastor, and served for six months. On account of removals it was thought best to suspend all services at Bethune and the few members left attended S. S. and church at Claremont until the Spring of 1906. When the community began again to be resettled the Sunday School was reorganized. In September 1906, Rev. J. L. Read who was pastor at Claremont and Seibert was called to become pastor of the Bethune Church and regular services were resumed. How long the work continued is not known. The Congregational Church at Bethune, like the one at Claremont and Seibert was destined to not make a go of it due to the lack of financial help from a Conference or General Church which would have enabled the work to have kept going Iong enough to become strong enough to be Bethune are the Evangelical United Brethern Church in Bethune. now abandoned, Imman- self-supporting. The Colorado Conference of the Evangelical Church had a number of school house congregations to the south and west of Congregational Church both located north of Bethune. There was a Nazarene Church located on the correction line south of Bethune. The site Central, Bethel and Smoky Angle, and was attracted to Bethune as hopeful territory for missionary operations. However, before it became possible for them to enter the field, the Baptist Gospel Car was taken in for a The churches included in the history of uel Lutheran Church and Hope United Church of Christ formerly know as Hope consisted of the church building and a cemetary behind the church yard. Agnes Beeson remembers attending some of the services held there when she was a girl and lived about five miles away. There is a fence around the graveyard and may be a grave left there. The church was moved off in about 1950. Immanuel Lutheran Church is mentioned in the book "White Churches of the Plains" by Robert Hickman Adams. Hope United Church of Christ and Immanuel Lutheran Church are still active serving the community and drawing members from Burlington and other towns near them. EVANGELICAL UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH T250 Church work was started in the Bethune Community on October 19th, 1900. A Congregational Church was organized in the school house by Rev. Sanderson with five charter members, five more soon thereafter Adam Burkey, Bill Crites, Douglas Stolz, Mary (Campbell) Holcomb; 1981 - Todd Hendricks, David Price, Danny Leoffler, Allan Matthies, Monte Arends, Sandy (Atkins) Adolf, Gina (Crouse) Hines, Teresa Crouse, Sharon (Poole) Greene; 1982 - Deb Yates, Margaret (Meyer) Robben, Monte Carroll; 1983 - Deb (Arends) Miller, Penny (Zieglet) Aeschilman, Rita Leoffler, Tim Campbell, Patricia McArthur, Kristy (Poole) Liming, Mark Crouse, Roger Stahlecker, Nathan Kramer, Carla (Eslinger) Foth; 1984 joining. The Rev. M. A. Bevier was called as Bethune E.U.B. Church. 1940's. Bethune such as First Central, Second special meeting, and pursuant thereto regular services were held. A baptist minister was stationed to the place, though there were less than a dozen charter members, and as far as is known, never any more. These people soon undertook to build a new church in Bethune at a cost of $3,000, soliciting aid in the community and where funds were available. Because of local conditions the Baptist friends felt necessitated to withdraw from the field, leaving the town without a pastor and open to any Protestant denomination ready and willing to take up the work. For a while there were no services of any kind conducted in the church. Less than two years after the church was built, The Colorado Conference of the Evangelical Church was asked to place Bethune on their list of appointments. This urgent invitation was accepted. The Bethune people again organized a Sunday School in the consolidated school building with the Evan- gelical Church representatives including President Elder B. Barthel present. The people were very anxious that they be served regularly provided such arrangements could be made in the interim of conference sessions. Consequently the Brethren R. D. Dexheimer and Leslie E. Gabael of Seibert were asked to serve this new point for the remainder of the year as time would permit. In the spring of 1928 these same brethren were by Conference appointed to serve Bethune in connection'with the Seibert Charge. In about six months it was considered expedient that the Services of Worship be changed from the school house to the church building. This permission the Baptist headquarters in Denver cheerfully granted. Initial steps were taken January 1, 1929 in a regularly announced meeting, with the thought of receiving members and effecting an Evangelical Organization. Subsequently 32 charter members were received. Later the Colorado Conference Trustees purchased the church property from the Baptist State for �the consideration of $850.00. On Sunday February 24,L929, this commodious building was dedicated by President Elder B. Barthel as an Evangelical Church. The Pastor's assisted in the services. Though the weather was cold and stormy was the attendance good. More than 9400.00 was secured in cash and pledges that day toward the purchase price of the property. At conference in the Spring of 1929, Rev. Leslie E. Gabel was appointed to serve Bethune along with the school house congre- gations to the southwest such as First Central, etc. The next year this circuit was without a pastor. In the Spring of 1931, Rev. Edward J. Ness was appointed to serve the south country school house congregations, and Rev. Wm. R. Van Devender was appointed to serve Bethune and Stratton, living at Stratton. In the Spring of 1935, Rev. J. Ness was assigned the Bethune and Stratton Congregations in addition to the South Country School House Congregations. One pastor continued to be appointed to all these churches including Bethune until 1945-1946. That year the Rev. Delbert C. Paulson was appointed, and the churches at First Central, Smokey Angle and Bethel discontinued. Annual Conference in the Spring of 1946 ordered these churches liquidated. Membership was transferred to either the Stratton or the Bethune Churches, depending on the wishes of the members. The membership of persons who could not be contacted were transferred to the Bethune Church roll. In 1952-1953 the Bethune Council with the Pastor V. J. Lamm removed 21 of these names "without certificate" when they were unable to contact them. From the Spring of 1946, Bethune has shared with Stratton the services of a pastor as a charge with the minister residing at Stratton. During the pastorate of Rev. Francis M. Bayles, Jr. from 1949 - 1952 great improvements in the physical property were made. The flat roof was removed and built up to a peak which improved appeilances and stopped leaks in the ceiling. Also the interior ofthe sanctuary was completely redecorated. A gas fired heating system has replaced the ineffective coal and oil units. The basement was plastered and decorated and modernized with cesspool, gas range and kitchen cabinets so that an adequate room is now available. The entire exterior was painted and the windows reputtied. Sidewalks were laid and the stairs repaired. Rev. Edward J. Ness directed a week of meetings in December of 1949 after which a number of members were received. Rev. B. Barthel came to lead in a week of revival prior to Easter in l95L and our hearts were made to rejoice in the Lord. Rev. Marvin M. Hudson conducted a meeting to strengthen the Sunday School program in the fall of 1952. Rev. C. P. Gates of the Oregon-Wash- ington Conference was to have come for meetings in the Spring of 1.953 but due to ill health couldn't and Rev. C. G. Bartsch held a weeks'meeting in March 1953. In February 1955, Rev. Ralph C. Hiness held a weeks' meeting. During Holy Week the last of March 1956, Rev. W. C. Lasater preached. Due to drought conditions it was not attempted to hold a revival meeting each year. The physical property was further improv- ed in the winter of 1952-1953 with the purchase and installing of six pews for the sanctuary to replace the chairs previously use. The floors were sanded and refinished before the pews were installed. Plans were made to build on a four room Sunday School addition north of the church during 19b41955. These plans were not carried out due to the drought which not only made it impossible to raise the needed money but caused a number of our church families to move from the community. This drought continued until the summer of 1957 when rains came and a good feed crop was raised which however did not help the farmers in their need for cash. The moisture in the Spring of 1957 caused plaster on the ceiling to fall. This was repaired and the entire sanctuary re-decorated. Mr. Ammonn who lives west of the church deeded the two lots north ofthe church to the church as a gift. This was much appreciated as more space was needed if it becomes possible to build onto the church for Sunday School purposes. Friendly relations were established with our sister church, The Hope Congregational Church north of Bethune, in 1960. The two women's groups invited each other to a meeting for fellowship. January 1st and Good Friday in 1961 and 1962 were utilized to have Union New Years and Good Friday Commu- nion Services, one at one church and the other at the other, alternating. October 25-29, L96l "Four Days for God" services were held under the leadership of Rev. Carl Anderson, Pastor of the Ravenna Blvd. United Presbyterian Church, Seattle, Washington, with an average attendance of 38 and 6 conversions, 1 dedication and 1 reclamation. As a result of these meetings, 8 new members were received into the church and a mid-week prayer service was started with an average attendance over the following months of 17. In January and February 1962, the pews were removed from the sanctuary and the floor sanded, then 10 coats ofseal and 3 coats of wax applied. Carpeting was laid on the chancel floor. The basement walls and ceilings were painted and plans made to put tiling on the basement floor. Annual Conference Session, June 1964, transferred Rev. U. J. Lamm and family to the Peetz congregation, to assume his duties there on July lst. In the reading of the assignments by Bishop W. Maynard Sparks, Stratton-Bethune was left "to be supplied", due to a serious shortage of ministerial supply in the Rocky Mountain Conference. This caused much concern for the Bethune congregation, as well as Stratton, as no indication could be given when the pulpit could be supplied with a regular minister. Mr. Lorin Lindstrom of Sterling, Colorado supplied one Sunday; Rev. Harold Maxwell, Professor of Religion at Westmore College, working on his PhD in Denver this summer, supplied on Sunday. Dr. Wm. L. Young, Conf. Supt. supplied several Sundays. Finally, after consultation, the decision was made by the Conference Cabinet to transfer Rev. David B. Finley from the Niwot Congregation to the Stratton-Bethune charge, to take over his duties here, August 1, 1964. This left Niwot to be supplied. October, 1965, saw the church building reshingled. This was a very much needed project. November 1, 1967, Bethune Church was re- aligned on a circuit with the Methodist Church of Burlington. The Rev. Ole Aarvold, Pastor. Thus ended a long history of alignment with the Stratton Church. Stratton was re-aligned with Zion Church of Kirk. This change was made necessary because of the severe shortage of ministerial supply in Rocky Mountain Conference which left Kirk without ministerial supply until this arrangement was made. This continues a policy in our Conference that has seen several Methodist - E.U.B. yoked circuits, as the Union of the two churches approaches. In June of 1969, Rev. Willis C. Wisehart was appointed to the Burlington-Bethune charge. Some consideration had been given to closing the church at a Church Conference in May 1969 due to declining population. It was decided to continue for another vear and then evaluate this situation. A speciai congregational meeting was held on September 10, 1970 at which time it was voted to close the church as of October 1, 1970. The last service was held at 9:30 A.M. on September 27 and, a basket dinner was served at noon. The Trustees were authorized, to dispose of the property under the direction of the Rockv Mountain Conference Board of Trustees. This brings to a close a spiritual pilgrimage and ministry of more then forty years of service, by Betty Guy IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH T25l The pioneers who came to live north of Bethune and Burlington establishing the "Settlement" community soon gathered to worship and have christian fellowship because they missed their religious services, needed instruction for their children and there were babies to be baptized. They gathered together and arrangements were made to start worship services in the home of Mr. Christian Dobler which was located near the center of the community. Because there was no pastor, one was selected to read a sermon using their books and Bibles that they brought with them. These services were held every Sunday and were called "Lesegottesdienst" or reading services. The fathers Dobler and Strobel took turns reading the sermons and leading the meetings. These services did not satisfy these people; therefore, they called Rev. Maier who served another church 15 miles northeast called the Evangelical Lutheran Salem Church in the summer of 1890. Rev. Maier served them every third Sunday and they held their Lesegottesdienst on the other Sundays. This was the official beginning ofour congregation. The first child baptized was A. W. Adolf. Mathis Schaal and Eva Baltzer was the first couple to be manied and Daniel Adolf was the first person buried in the summer of 1892 and Rev. Leupp was called that fall. The following are some of the families that settled in this community: Baltzer, Stutz, Bauer, Dobler, Schaal, Strobel, Adolf, Win- ters, Haefner, Fanslau, Bauder, Jacober. Kramer, Wahl, Stahlecker, Schmidke, Gramm, Weber, Zeigler, Weisshaar, Amman, Knodel, Weiss, Stolz, Schlichenmayer, Gowagner, and others that came later. �Iw fl:l:::. ,it.'] call and came in January, 1930. He also served St. Paul's in Burlington and because he chose to live in town, the parsonage was now vacant. One bright event came to the congregation in 1932 with the ordination of Rev. Ernest Stolz, a child of the congregation. The church remained strong despite the difficult times brought on by the depression and drought. They were able to maintain t. .A '6.lhl li:':lll er€ w I rs* a{tl .f9r ffi : their pastor by sharing food etc. The sunday school was conducted in two languages, the German consisting of three classes and the American with five classes along with a large Bible class which were held each Sunday. *s. 3iil & I Worship services were conducted in German for many years with the transition to the English services being made in the 1940's. Activities and special events were the annual ( I 3t'4&) Children's Day with the making of homemade ice cream in huge wooden freezers, the church picnic, the annual Mission Festival held in the fall, and the Children's Christmas program held on Christmas eve. The last two Immanuel Lutheran Church located north of Bethune. This picture shows the group that gathered to celebrate their 90th anniversary in July of 1980. in July of 1909 and was followed by Rev. Martin Jensen. Recorded in the Dakota Free Press, November 8, 1909, Immanuel's congregation had 17 voting members and a total membership of 287. In 1911 congregational differences brought about the separation of several members and they established Hope Congre- gational Church located 1 mile north of Immanuels. Rev. Jensen left during the summer of 1912 and Rev. V. Brun came in 1913 and in the spring of that year Immanuels bought their first organ. Rev. G. Adolf came in the spring of 1916 and was followed by Rev. Otto Kloeckner in 1921. The 1920's were prosperous as a nation and April, 1985, after worship services. In the spring of 1893 these pioneers decided to build a church, 24'x40'x10', out of rock. Each married family had to haul eight loads and the single members had to haul four Ioads of rock. Mr. Dobler was the carpenter and all work was donated. Rev. Leupp laid the corner stone and in the latter part of October the church was dedicated. Rev. Leupp and Rev. Jansen officiated. Sam Schall Sr. was confirmed on Palm Sunday in 1894. This was the first confirmation class in the rock church. The church was incorporated on September 7, 1902. In the spring of that year the congregation decided to build a new parsonage, 30'x 30', one story with four rooms. The dedication was in the fall and Rev. Jansen was the first pastor to live in the new home. He went to St. Francis, Kansas and helped start Salem Lutheran Church north and west of St. Francis in 1901. He left in May of 1902 and was succeeded by Rev. Robert Ackerman who came in the summer and remained until May of 1906. Rev. Stein was called and he left community with many changes coming about. As the congregation grew in number it was decided to build a new larger church. It was to be 32' x 60' with a steeple 55' high. Mr. Schmidt was the main contractor and was finished at a cost of $7500. The alter, pulpit, and lectern were hand made by Mr. Schmidt. Thorwald's statue of Jesus was placed on the altar and the spun brass bell, cast by Stuckstede and Bros. of St. Louis, Missouri, 1926 was hung in the bell tower. The benches were hand made by Jacob Hasart Sr. The congregation supplied much of the labor with Mr. Zeiglet, Mr. Adolf, Mr. Hasart and Rev. Kloeckner in charge. The day of dedication was well attended with pastors A. Bishop, G. Bergstrasser and O. Kloeckner presiding. Rev.. Kloeckner was given a gift of gold coins from the congrega- tion for his untiring efforts in getting the project completed. When the church was completed it was debt free and valued at $10,000. The dedication was on September 26,1926 and the offering was over $360. The first couple married in the church was Daniel and Naomi Adolf on the following Wednesday. events being a part of the congregation's activities as long a can be remembered. Immanuel Lutheran church celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1940 and during these past 50 years in this congregation 531 were baptized, 231 confirmed, 64 couples married, and 109 died. On January 1, 1940 the church had 63 voting members, 241 souls, 60 sunday school children, and 145 communicants. The church council consisted of six members as follows:: A.W. Adolf, Jake Hasart, Fred ZiegIer, Crist Kramer, and George Wiedman. Organist for the English service was Mrs. Woebler and Ed Stahlecker played for the German service for the last 29 years. There were about 25 to 30 men from the congregation who were drafted into the military services and all returned. In 1944 the church remodled the sanctuary consisting of the removal of the arches and the round dias. The metal wall panels were removed and replaced with new wall siding along with new drapes being hung. In 1945 they enlarged the basement by excavating under the building and adding much needed fellowship space, sunday school area and kitchen facilities. That year the old organ was presented to Mr. Ed Stahlecker for his many years of faithful service as a new piano was purchased. Mr. Rudolf Schlichenmayer became the pianist. By this time worship was conducted in English to meet the needs of a changing congregation. Rev. Woebler left after serving faithfully for 17 years with Rev. L.C. Johnson coming in 1947 to serve Immanuel and St. Paul's. Many changes were made while he was pastor. The brown hymnals were purchased, Vacation Bible School was started, Luther League for the youth was organized and the Ladies Aid was started. The Brotherhood was organized in the 1950's. New altar hangings were made of wine velveteen with gold fringe. May 21, 1950 finds the congregation cele- brating their 60th anniversary with guest speakers Rev. H.L. Woebler of Loveland, Colorado addressing the afternoon service in 1928 and died August 17, 1931 and was laid German and Dr. E.G. Fritschel, District President. Special music was presented by the choirs from neighboring Lutheran congregations from the Tri-State Conference the church. The congregation was without a pastor until Rev. H.L. Woebler accepted the note that Immanuel Lutheran Church of Bethune was the oldest active American Rev. Kloeckner also served St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Burlington during his pastorate here. He resigned in November of to rest in Immanuel's cemetery just west of and our own choir. It is of special interest to �Lutheran Church in the State of Colorado at that time. The Central District of the A.L.C. of which Colorado is a part, presented a bronze plaque to the congregation to memorialize their 60th anniversary. There were 50 active families in the congregation with a total of 198 souls. Improvements and changes made during this time were the connecting to the REA and improving the electrical system in 1951. The League had the candle holders and Communion ware gold plated. In 1953 the church was enlarged with bathrooms and sunday school rooms being added. Rev. Johnson left in June of 1954. The congregation decided that they needed to be independent and could support a pastor of their own so in 1955 they built a new parsonage south ofthe church and called Rev. A.F. Boese who came in 1955 and served the congregation through the drought of the 50's. The interior of the church and the furnishings were painted and the wood floor refinished. Due to the involvement in the Korean War several members of our church went to serve their country and all returned home. Two sons of the congregation joined the ministry of the ACL with Ivan R. Amman being ordained in 1956 and Henry Stolz was ordained in 1957 with services being held at Immanuel. Pastor Boese died in 1960 and his loss will be remembered as he served for six years and was our first pastor to live in the new parsonage. Rev. Herbert Schauer came in June of 1962. At this time church records show that in 1964 we had a baptized member- ship of 231, and 166 confirmed. During the 50's and 60's many of the young people left the community to find employment as farms were getting larger and fewer people were needed to till the land. Many members now Iive in Burlington and faithfully come to worship services and in 1960 the Ladies Aid became the American Lutheran Church Woman with all confirmed women as members. This was brought about with the merger of the American Lutheran Church with several other Lutheran bodies creating the new organization. The red hymnals were purchased in 1963. Immanuel celebrated their 75th anniversary on May 9, 1965 with guest speakers: Rev. Henry Stolz, Minden, Nebraska and Dr. E.G. Fritschel, President of the Central District. A taped message from Rev. Ivan Amman, Missionary, Territory of New Guinea was purchased a used organ in 1978 from the church in Benkelman. Nebraska and the new green hymnals were bought. Jean Weisshaar is providing music and guidance for the men's choir with Lois Jacobson as our organist with younger members assisting in the music for worship. The basement was remodled and redecorated during the winter of 1979 and the church and steeple were painted on the outside. As of January 1, 1980 membership consists of 63 active families, 228 baptized. and 178 confirmed. We began 1980 by celebrating our 90th anniversary with our first day of celebration on May 4 with Rev. Ivan Amman, Randolf, Nebraska as guest speaker for the morning service. Music for the day was provided by our own men's choir and a German Quartette from St. Francis, and by the Hope United Church of Christ choir. Mr. A.W. Adolf shared some memories from the past. A reception was held in the afternoon for the friends who were able to come and share in the fellowship of this event. Attendance for morning services was about 188 and 258 for the afternoon program. On July 27,1980, Immanuel held its Heritage Day Celebration. Bringing us the message for the morning service was Pastor Henry Stolz with Pastor Henry Thorburg and Pastor Howard Jacobson conducting the German and English worship service commerating our past. Many worshippers arrived in their buggies and wagons and riding horses and driving old cars with many people dressed in period clothing to help set the atmosphere for the day. The church was overflowing with worshippers numbering over 350 for the morning and afternoon services. Everyone gathered on the south side of the church where a group picture was taken. The afternoon program consisted of special music and a slide presentation covering events from the past 90 years and special historical events of interest were shared. Everyone shared in a huge basket dinner with the crowd overflowing outdoors as the weather was just perfect. Events held were the horseshoe games and the beard growing contest with refreshments of homemade ice cream and cookies being served and enjoyed by all creating a warmth of christian fellowship that was shared by all and will be remembered and cherished for years to come. Pastor's Fred Schauer and Greg Adolf visited us in August and our annual Mission Festival was held on September 28 with Bishop Archie Madsen, President of the presented. Mrs. Eulalia Schauer was pianist with music by several choirs from the community. Our congregation was once again called to supply young men for service in the Vietnam War with all returning home safely. The church steeple was repaired and painted Central District of the ALC bringing the morning message and the afternoon slide in the late 1960's. Rev. E. Martell came in 1967. New carpeting was purchased to cover the sanctuary windows were replaced with colored glass and the sound system was updated. As ofJanuary 1, 1988 we are a part of the new Evangelical floor and the living and dining rooms of the parsonage. New altar paraments were made ofraw silk in the colors ofthe church year and the red velveteen backdrop was hung in 1968. Rev. Henry Thorburg came to Immanuel in 1973. In 1974 Fred Schauer, former member, chose Immanuel for his ordination. In 1976 the congregation held a special service celebrating the Bi-Centenial of our nation. Pianists were Louise Schlichenmayer, Karen Ziegler and Janet Weisshaar Willis. In 1977 Rev. Howard Jacobson accepted our call and arrived in Januarv. The church presentation on his trip to Africa. Rev. Michael Greenwalt accepted our call in September of 1983 and left in the fall of 1987. During this time the upper part of the Lutheran Church in America due to the merger of three large Lutheran bodies. Membership consists of 2l9baptized and 162 confirmed members. Pastor Dennis Mueller is serving as supply pastor and pianists are Jean Weisshaar, Gladys Stolz, Eulalia Mueller and guitarists James Lightle and Roger Weisshaar providing music for our services. If those first pioneers could be with us now, they would see that their dream of freedom and a home of their own became a reality in the presence of this congregation and com- munity today. May our God who has so faithfully showered His blessings upon us be Praised! by Marlyn Hasart HOPE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST T252 Hope United Church of Christ was organized in a School house 11 miles north and 1 mile east of Bethune, Colorado, on Aug. 31, 1911 in what was then called Yale, CO. At this time a group of 11 families gathered with the Pastors F. Sattler, G. Schmidt and J. Wagner who helped with the organization of the "German Evangelical Congregational Hoffnungs Church" as it was originally named. The names of those charter member families were: Andreas and Beata Bauer. Margareta, Martin and Mathilda; Christian and Christina Gramm, Gottlieb and Eliz- abeth; Jacob and Emma Gramm; Gottlieb and Christina Knodel, Edward and Gottlieb; Gustave and Christina Paster, and Katherina; Matthias and Eva Schaal, Edward and John; Anna Magdalena Schmidke and Emma; Samuel and Bertha Schmidke Jr.; Christian and Dorothea Strobel, Lydia, Emil, Pauline and Christ: Friedrich and Maria Stutz, Lydia, Ida and Whilimina; Joseph and Margareta Weisshaar. On January 18, 1912 the congregation voted to build a church and this task was undertaken immediately. The first church building was a small one-room frame structure which stood some 250 feet west and north of the present brick church. It was completed and dedicated, together with the cemetary, on Feb. 18, 1912, only one month after it was started, on land donated by John Dobler Sr. In 1923 he added to this parcel so that a parsonage could be built adjacent to the church. The details of the construction are as follows: Building funds were obtained in the sum of $150.00 from the Congregational Building and Loan Association; member donations were collected in the sum of $316.75. This was a total of $466.75 which was also the construction cost. Needless to say, many hours of dedicated volunteer labor went into the building. Christian Dobler was the carpenter. A pump organ was purchased on November 20,l9l4,atacost of 975.00. The first organists were William Stutz and Doro- thy Schaal. For several years the congregation was served by student pastors during the summer months, and the rest of the time reading of sermons by the elders of the church for the worship services. The elders and older members also helped conduct the Sunday School for the children which always preceeded the morning worship service. The afternoon hours were devoted to Christian Endeavor for the Youth and immediately following an hour of prayer and singing. Christian Endeavor especially gave the youth the opportunity to use and develop their talents, formulate and express their thoughts on a given subject, based on the study of the Bible. The prayer meeting or hour of prayer was an outgrowth of the revival meetings conducted by the Evangelist Rev. John Schwabenland. This filled a real need and the deep spiritual longing of these first pioneer families. The �able at that time. Rev. J.P. Flemmer was then called to Hope Church and he was the first to call the new parsonage "home". This was erected on a site north of the present church in 1923, being dedicated on July 15 of that year. Rev. Flemmer came direct from Redfield, So. Dak. Seminary in the summer of 1922 and boarded ,t\ at the home of the Jacob and Katherina Strobel family until the new parsonage was completed. Rev. Flemmer was married to Marie Fahrenbruch on May 16 and so he and his new bride began their life together in the new parsonage and served the church until L925. ;)!.::: t :1:l . *.-'I . &:Ws'ry' -i ,, " " ::6 Hope United Church of Christ formerly Hope Congregational Church, 1912 student pastors that served the young church during the first six summer months from 1912 to 1917 were: John Rothenberger, Karl Haemmelmand, J. Peter Wagner, R. Otto, A. Selmikeit and V. Pietzko. Then in 1918 Rev. Karl Haemmelmann was called to serve as the first full-time pastor. He remained to served the church until 1922. During his ministry, the yearly salary paid was $500.00. It is also interesting to note that the first Mission Fest offering was $50.50. A joyous occasion took place when Rev. Haemmelmann and Minnie Stutz were married here at Hope Church as Minnie was a charter member of the new church. They lived approximately three miles south of the church on land they purchased, which had an adobe house standing on it. The church came together and helped them set up housekeeping since no parsonage was avail- The brick church was built in 1928, a beautiful sight on the plains north of Bethune. During the ministry of Rev. C.E. Maedche the congregation voted to erect a new church. The basic contract was awarded to Mr. J.A. Haughey of Burlington, Colorado. He completed this work for $5,494.00. The total cost of the finished structure was $7,500.00 in- cluding furnishings. The new church was dedicated to the service of the Triune God on September 2,1928. Present at this dedication were Rev. Mssr. J. Peter Wagner, J.P. Flemmer, J. Rothenberger, H.J. Stroh and Theodore Strobel, all of whom assisted in the dedication service. Present also were pastors from Burlington, Co. churches who brought greetings in the English language, Rev. Alley, Methodist Church and Rev. Tyner, First Christian Church. Rev. Maedche served Hope Church longer than any previous minister, 8 years, terminating his pastorate in 1934. Rev. and Mrs. Maedche lost their oldest son during their tenure here and he is buried in Hope cemetary. On a more joyous note Rev. Maedche had the privilege of officiating at the marriage of John and Margaret Weisshaar, being the last couple married in the little frame church, and John Gramm and Frieda Adolf, the first couple in the new church. In a note which was found written in John Strobel's personal handwriting, some of the costs of the church were broken down as follows: Brick (25,000)-$29.50/thousand- $73?.50. Tile-$90.00/thousand-$94.00. Cem- ent for basement, side steps-$320.00. Seats (each)-$4.25. 3 Art stained glass windows- ;r;t .rlilijr,rrj.!:!1i..'::l:r:,., ],:tl ll::.:. l.ltl,.. ,,1., :l':],.' :r':,,':, :ti.::; .' a)a',,,a: : ::,.,:,t;. i . ,,,:t,, . ,:::, l.',,.. ",,]j,' $402.00. In 1935 Rev. John and Julia Hoelzer came to Hope Church and they ministered through the difficult depression and dust-bowl years. A number of families left during this time to find better opportunities to make a living, which made it more difficult for those that remained to maintain the church. However, the Ladies Missionary and Aid Society was organized the first year the Rev. Hoelzers were at Hope, and the 25th Anniversary of the church was celebrated the following year, August 29-30, 1936. Rev. J.F. Reister filled the pulpit from 1939 to L942. Rev. H.G. Pfeiff began his ministery in 1943 and it was during this time the church became self-supporting. Previously, the church had received financial assistance from the Board of Home Missions. In 1944-46, during the ministry of Rev. D. Schurr, the church came very close to being consumed by fire. Lightning struck close to the church and the wiring carried cunent to the furnace room where a fire was started. Fortunately, this was discovered and did very little damage. Student Arthur Siewart served during his Christmas vacation from Yankton College. Rev. J. Rothenberger called Hope The parsonage, church and cemetary of Hope United Church of Christ, 1950's. Church his home from 1947-1950; he had �previously served as the first student pastor in 1912. In 1951 Rev. Wm. R. Schafer came to serve the church and was ordained here. He served the church until 1953. During the ministry of Rev. H.E. Wilske, (1953-1959), the parsonage was moved to Burlington, Co. It was completely remodeled and still remains at 325-16th St. During 1960 and 1961, the church was served by several supply pastors including students E. Schoessler, Rev. B. Barthel, P. Kreuzenstein and V. Schively. On Aug. 26-27,t961, Hope Church celebrated its 50th Anniversary. There were over 250 members and guests present for this occasion. It was during this same year that the congregation voted to accept the constitution of the United Church of Christ. Rev. John Eversole was at Hope from 1962-1963. Rev. Arthur Hoffman served from 1964 to 1968 and during this time (1967) a new organ was purchased by Mr. Jake Schaal. This was a surprise to everyone when they came to church for Mission Fest Sunday that year. During the ministery of Rev. Virgil Kellogg, it was voted to build an addition over the south entrance of the church. This also provided an extra Sunday School room. This was the year 1970. Rev. Kellogg became ill and passed away during his calling at Hope Church. Students R. Freeman, Ron Wunsch and Rev. H. Griffith then filled the pulpit. Rev. Ruben Isaak came to the church in 1971. At this time extensive remodeling was undertaken with carpet being Iaid in the sanctuary and side room. Linoleum was put in the basement. Rev. Isaak eventually left Hope Church due to the prolonged illness and death of his wife, Alta. Under his ministry, however, many new members were added to the role of the church and many were baptized in the name of the Lord. During Rev. Isaak's absence, Rev. Howard Johnson filled the pulpit. Rev. Isaak returned to the church in 1978 retiring as a full-time pastor at the end ofthis year. Rev. Loren Swanson served Hope from 1979-1981. The Dr. Rev. Albert Wetzel was called to the church in 1982 and served the church through 1986, along with his wife Rosemary and daughter Julie. In 1982, during his installation as pastor at the Hope Church, he was also recognized for serving 25 years in the ministry. It was under his direction and guidance that we celebrated the 75th Anniversary of Hope United Church of Christ. It was noted that in celebrating this joyous occasion, new pews had been added to the sanctuary and remodeling of the kitchen completed. Two of the charter members are still living. They are Christ Strobel and Mathilda (Hohn) Mitchell, as well as 8 of the charter family's children, who were Sunday School age and under at the time of the organization. They are: Eva (Knodel) Schaal; Margaret (Weisshaar) Strobel; Pauline (Gramm) Schaal; William Stutz; Emil Schmidke; Emma (Schmidke) McDowell; Anna (Bauer) Hays; and Edward Bauer. On Easter Sunday, April lg, 1987, Pastor Ted Meter first served Hope Church. He and his wife, Betty, arrived from North Dakota and were surprised to be greeted by an extensively remodeled and modernized parsonage. At this writing, Meters are actively and busily involved in the work ofthe church serving the Lord. Registered thus far in the church records: 255 Baptisms; 183 Confirmations; 73 marriages; 88 Funerals; and 104 Families. OUR CHURCH SCHOOL- The purpose of the Sunday School is to teach the children the Bible stories that would mold their lives into law abiding and God fearing citizens. In the beginning it was conducted in the German language and children were taught the German ABCs and how to write in German. The memorizing of Bible verses and studying of Bible stories taught them about the love of God and singing the song "Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so," has helped them to love God and also to love their fellowmen. The first week in June a week of Vacation Bible School is held and children bring their money for a missionary in a foreign land, and a program at the end to tell what they have learned during the week. One of the highlights of the year is the Sunday School picnic on a Sunday in July in a grove of trees by the river and singing of the hymn "Shall We Gather at the River" and an open air church service. After the service we share a potluck dinner and freezers of homemade ice cream. Also games and visiting makes for a day of good Christian fellowship. Near Thanksgiving time, recitations and parts for drills are handed out for the Christmas program on Christmas eve. The program ends with a pageant and a nativity scene to commemorate the birth of the Savior of the world. PAIRS & SPARES- Pairs and Spares was organized in 1982, under the direction ofRev. and Mrs. Albert Wetzel. The group is open to anyone, and presently consists of the younger married and singles of the church. Meetings are held in various members'homes on the third sunday evening of the month. Fellowship consists of Bible study and sharing views on controversial issues concerning Christian living. During the summer months we take advantage of the various outdoor activities. Our goal is to further our education in Jesus Christ and His teachings, and use it to walk closer with Him in our everyday lives. THE MUSICAL DEPARTMENT- It ap- parently started as a mixed choir in the early years (1912-13), and later Rev. Flemmer started a men's quartet, consisting of himself, John Dobler, Bill Stutz, and Ted Knodel. From there it has blossomed into a larger men's choir that has lasted until the present time with various choir directors through the years. The church has been fortunate to always have two or three, or more, accompanists available. There is also a host oftalented singers as demonstrated in the congregational singing each Sunday. At the present time there is a men's choir that sings in the winter months. In the summer and fall a mixed choir sings, or special numbers are provided by various members of the church. There have been cantatas and concerts performed at the church. Most of the cantatas were performed with Immanuel Lutheran Church and the Hope Church combined. A lot of dedication and hard work have made the music at Hope Church an important and necessary part of the church and has been very instrumental in the growth of the church. MISSIONARY AND AID SOCIETY- The first official meeting was held on July 1, 1935, at the church. Some of the highlights of this meeting are: The name of the organization shall be called the "Missionary and Aid Society". Meetings shall be held the first Thursday of the month. The motto will be "Alle Eure Dinge Lasset in der Liebe Geshehen" (Let All Your Efforts Be Motivated bv Charity and Love). The present motto is "Wi No Longer Strangers Are". All 2l ladies present were recognized as "charter members". They were Christina Gramm, Magdalena Dobler, Julia Hoelzer, Carolina Schaal, Emma M. Schaal, Lena Strobel, Emma Schaal, Edna Dobler, Pauline Schaal, Martha Gramm, Margaret Strobel, Lydia Gramm, Frieda Gramm, Christina Knodel. Pauline Stahlecker, Martha Adolf. Anna Strobel, Martha Schlichenmayer, Pauline C. Schaal, Lydia Adolf and Rev. John Hoelzer. The first meeting held in English was on Feb. 2, 1950. This group was organized to be mission dedicated to help the needy in the community and foreign missions. The aid celebrated its 25th Anniversary in June 1960 and the 50th Anniversary in June 1985. AND THEY WENT FORTH- Three young men have gone forth from the Hope Church into the full-time service of the Church. THEODORE. C. STROBEL graduated from Redfield Seminary and was ordained in 1921 in Canada, where he served a church parish for about three years. Ted also served churches in Colorado and the Dakotas, as well as on the West Coast, for the past 50 years, the last 10 years as interim pastor. DR. WALTER E. DOBLER graduated from Yankton School ofTheology, Yankton, South Dakota. He then attended the Andover Newton Theological School in Newton Cen- ter, Mass. where he completed residence requirements for his Doctorate degree. He was ordained in 1942 at the American FallsTwin Falls, Idaho parish. Dr. Dobler was appointed to the faculty of the Yankton School of Theology as a Professor of German Language and Literature. He served several churches throughout the Northern and Eastern areas of the United States. Dr. Dobler was Associate Conference Minister for the western area of the Missouri Conference. HERBERT R. SCHAAL graduated from Yankton School of Theology. He was ordained in Crook, Colorado in 1966. In 1958 he was commissioned as missionary to our work in Concordia Entre Rio Argentina, South America. He served as Superintendent ofthe work there, including the School of Theology in which ministers were trained for both Brazil and Argentina. He and wife Doris served in Argentina f.or L2 years and then served several churches in the United States. In addition to these persons, yet another young lady from Hope Church has served for many years as a ministers wife, namely, Minnie (Stutz) Haemmelmann. Two of her sons and a daughter, as well as a grandson, are also in full-time christian service. AND THEY FOLLOW AFTER- Dr. Robert Strobel, son of Rev. Theo. Strobel was Professor of Religious Education at United Theological Seminary for 25 years from the very beginning, and his wife, Alice, as Admis- sions Secretary during those years. Robert also served in the Air Force as Chaplin for many years, and Betty, daughter of Rev. Strobel also was active in church work for many years as the wife of Rev. Ernest Sprenger. Rev. David Dobler, son of Dr. Walter Dobler is also in the ministry and presently serving in Alaska. Patty (Schaal) Browning, daughter of Rev. Herbert Schaal and her husband, Steve, are scrving in the Inter-Varsity Christian Fellowship (College Campus Ministry) presently at Seattle, � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource History of Kit Carson County Description An account of the resource Brief historical stories and elements from the founding and recent history of Kit Carson County, Colorado. Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Book Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bethune Date Created Date of creation of the resource. 1988 Subject The topic of the resource history Description An account of the resource The history of the Town of Bethune as recorded in the History of Kit Carson Count book. Type The nature or genre of the resource text Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Salmons, Janice Hasart, Marlyn Smith, Dorothy Language A language of the resource English Is Part Of A related resource in which the described resource is physically or logically included. History of Kit Carson County Volume 1 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource text/pdf Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Curtis Media Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/</a>