Rice Lake Town (part 1 of 2)

Rice Lake Town

Location and Advantages - Modern Activities - Early History - Knapp Stout & Co. Lumber Camp - Rice Lake in 1872 - Platted in 1875 - De¬ scription of Rice Lake in 1876 by Charles S. Taylor - Early Woodwork¬ ing - Rice Lake Lumber Co. - Park Falls Lumber Co. - Present Wood¬ working Establishments - Manufacturing - New Idea Potato Machine Co. - Inderrieden Canning Co. and Its Predecessors - Railroads - J. E. Horsman Promotes Local Railroad Company - Municipal History and Improvements - Public Schools - Postal Seiyice - Military History - Local Militia Has Notable War Record - Churches - Banks - Tele¬ phones - Hospitals - Physicians - Library - Fraternities - Building and Loan Association - Creamery - Day Oral -School - French Settlement. . 1067 - 1075

Rice Lake, a city of 5,000 people is ninety miles south of the Twin Ports, 100 miles northeast of the Twin Cities, and one night's ride from Chicago and Milwaukee. It is on the main line of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Railway from Chi¬ cago to Duluth and Superior, and on the Ridgeland-Reserve branch of the Minne¬ apolis, St. Paul and Sault Ste. Marie Rail¬ way, thus giving it access to the main Twin Clty-Sault Ste. Marie line only a few miles away.

The city is beautifully located on the western shores of Rice Lake, a sightly body of crystal clear water. The lake is really an enlargement of the Menominee River, which divides the city Into three parts.

The main street is a notably fine thor¬ oughfare, two and a half miles in length, with a part of the distance paved and illumi¬ nated with the lights of a brilliant "White Way."

Originally settled and securing its growth because of the lumber industry, and still having within its limits the largest hard¬ wood lumber mill in the world, and the larg¬ est excelsior mill in the world, the develop¬ ment of the surrounding territory has pro¬ gressed until the city is now the center of the summer resort district, in one of the best agricultural districts of the North. Evidence of this is the largest pea canning factory in the world and the largest potato warehouse machinery factory In the world located here, and the largest certified seed potato growers' association in the world close to the city.

The city is the financial and trading cen¬ ter of a wide territory, and is rapidly becom¬ ing a manufacturing city of note, having shipping facilities to each sea coast and to all markets.

Pure water, invigorating air, wholesome farm products, surplus electric current, plenty of raw material, good schools, churches, bathing beaches, tourist camp site, and a wide awake, congenial populace, make this city an ideal place for homes, factories, prosperity and health.

The city is well laid out and contains about 100 business places in all lines, includ¬ ing three banks, special and general stores, first class hotels, an opera house, moving picture theaters, public library, city hall. Masonic hall. Odd Fellows' hall and others; and two well-equipped hospitals. There are several garages, restaurants and cafes; also a wholesale grocery, potato and produce shipping houses, potato grading machinery factory, excelsior factory, wood working establishments, planing mills, large flour and feed mills, and one of the largest lum¬ ber Industries in Wisconsin, comprising both sawmills, wholesale and retail yards. The city has a large canning factory, creamery and ice cream houses, wholesale hide and fur houses, cigar factories and minor indus¬ tries. Two weekly newspapers, the Rice Lake Chronotype and Rice Lake Times, are published.

The educational system comprises several ward schools, parochial school, and a $140,- 000 high school, the latter having special courses for domestic science, manual train¬ ing and a course in agriculture. The County Training School for Teachers and Day Oral School are also located in the city.

The city is lighted by electric lights, has a fine system of waterworks, sanitary sewer¬ age, well-equipped fire department, broad, well paved streets, and is clean, modern and attractive.

Rice Lake is destined to become one of the most popular summer resorts in north¬ ern Wisconsin. Already a splendid begin¬ ning has been made in the city park and broad driveway skirting the west shore of Rice Lake, while an extensively planned park and summer resort has been laid out on the east shore of the same lake. Here broad boulevards and artificial lakes and grassy glades are Intermingled and numer¬ ous cottages have been erected, while on the shore of South Rice lake another park has been platted and many cottages built The next few years will see hundreds of cottages erected on the shores of the lake from which the city takes its name. This lake and the many streams in the vicinity abound with game fish and others in greater quantities than some lakes that are more extensively advertised, while the hunting in the vicinity is one of the finest in the state.

The surrounding country is being rapidly developed for all classes of farming and dairying, and shipments of dairy and farm produce, lumber and manufactured products are made in quite large quantities to the leading markets.

A flourishing Commercial Club with C. F. Stout as secretary is doing some notable work in fostering a fraternal and civic spirit, in securing harmonious action by the busi¬ ness and professional men, and in inducing a number of enterprises to locate here, as well as in fathering a number of municipal and general improvements.

Captain Thomas Wilson, a member of Knapp, Stout & Co., and James Bracklln, a superintendent for that concern, who after¬ ward settled here and became one of the leading citizens of the county, first looked over the possibility of this region In 1868. At that time there was a large Indian village here, and the lake was the favorite resort of thousands of the Indians who came here to gather wild rice and to catch the wild fowl which the wild rice also attracted here.

The village had its real beginning in 1868, when Knapp, Stout ft Co. established a log¬ ging camp south of the Red Cedar River and east of what is now Main Street. With headquarters at this camp, the loggers cut the pine from the present site of the city. That fall the camp was left In charge of Owen Gillespie, and another camp estab¬ lished on Section 15, on the west side of the lake, with John Lawler as superintendent. The advantages of the site at the outlet of Rice Lake were apparent to the Knapp- Stout people, and It was determined to erect a mill there. Accordingly they built the dam, on the present site. This transformed a series of rice pools and rush swamps, caused by the widening of the Red Cedar River, Into the beautiful body of water that Rice Lake Is today. In the next few years quite a settlement sprang up.

Knapp, Stout ft Co. established their first mill here In 1871. It was started by M. W. Heller, who was the first permanent settler to bring his family here. He started for the Knapp, Stout people not only the first mill, but also the first store, hotel and smlthshop. He was the first veteran of the Civil War to die here.

By 1872, the foot of Rice Lake was the scene of considerable activity, mostly con¬ nected with the Knapp-Stout operations. The sawmill on the present site of the Wlsconsln-Minnesota Light ft Power Co. power¬ house was In operation with about six em¬ ployes. For the accommodation of the settlers a set of stones had been put In, and grist was ground on Saturday afternoons. A frame hotel had been built, now a part of the Lakeside Hospital, and standing on the same site, south of the dam and east of the street A log shanty was standing be¬ tween the river and the hotel. South of the end of the present bridge was a log stable. West of the hotel was a large frame sleep¬ ing shanty, popularly known as the "Kitchen," and still further west was the frame horse barn. Knapp, Stout ft Co. store was a frame building on the present site of the hide and fur warehouse. To these were added in 1872, a small frame house. 12 by 16 feet, for Mr. Heller, the superintendent. All these structures were south of the river.

North of the river there was a black¬ smith shop on the west side of Main Street, a little south of the present Day Oral School. The blacksmith had his dwelling across the street, a little northeast of his shop.

The first resident physician was Dr. E. T. Whinnery, a graduate of the University of Michigan, who came in 1872. The next year, Dr. D. C. Strong located In Sumner.

The first attorney In Rice Lake, and In fact in the county, was E. M. Sexton, who came in 1872. Soon after him came H. J. Sill, J. H. Ives and F. M. Angel.

ing, a structure Intended for a Courthouse. That year, G. H. Johnson erected a building 26 by 50 feet, and opened a store. The build¬ ing was later sold to John Deere, who con¬ ducted a boarding house. Charles Nunn in 1874 erected the Rice Lake Hotel on the northwest corner of Main and Messenger Streets. This house has been moved and is a part of the present residence of Dr. T. A. Charron. Daniel Dargan erected a combined saloon and residence. Residences were also erected by Newton C. Abbott on the corner south of the present Tourist Hotel, by C. W. Carpenter and George Anderson.

The Rice Lake Chronotype made its first appearance on Sept. 9, 1874, with C. W. Carpenter as editor. William L. Abbott assisted In organizing the paper but with¬ drew before the first Issue. The editor frankly speaks of starting the paper 'in a new and almost unbroken wilderness." Com¬ plaint is made that the mall service is wretched, it taking two weeks to get an answer to a letter from Eau Claire. Most of the advertisements were from outside towns, Menomonle, Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls. A few were from Rice Lake. Knapp. Stout ft Co. advertised a saw, planing and feed mill. They also had a blacksmith and general wagon shop In charge of George Anderson. H. J. Sill and E. M. Sexton, the latter the district attorney, had lawyers' cards, and Ed. C. Coleman had a card as notary public and deputy county treasurer.

In 1876 a brewery was established by Charles Salle. It passed through various hands and flourished for several decades. Another was started later.

Rice Lake was platted Sept. 25, 1875, by Knapp, Stout ft Co. The surveyor was J. W. Remington. South Rice Lake was platted May 22, 1884, on land owned by Andrew Talnter, Egbert B. Bundy, Robert Macauley, Edward B. Malnwaring and Joseph H. Gates. Louis W. Leete was the surveyor. It was replatted In the name of Robert Macauley July 80, 1885, Thomas Parker being the surveyor. The plat was partly vacated Nov. 6, 1885. Various addi¬ tions have been made to both plats.

Charles S. Taylor, writing from Rice Lake, July 2, 1876, says: "Between Rice Lake and Barron, twelve miles, over half the distance is heavily wooded with hard wood; part of the distance Is covered with pine, or has been so covered.

"Rice Lake is nicely situated in the midst of a level tract of country. The soil in the village is rather light, but all around, ex¬ cept toward the south and southwest, the soil Is excellent. The lake Is on the east The river, Red Cedar, flows out of it to the west for a short distance, then south. The village, except the company's part is on the north side of the river. The place was almost all built last summer. The company have quite a large saw mill, also a grist mill. They have quite a store, the only one in town. They have a large hotel; also a large boarding house for their own men. The company also has other buildings, large and commodious, which I have not men-

Knapp, Stout ft Co. continued their opera¬ tions here for many years. The sawmill and grist mill were operated together until the winter of 1879-80, when the company put in improvements in the mill, increasing its sawing capacity, added a planing depart¬ ment, and erected a water power grist mill further down the river. In 1888, the stones were taken from the grist mill, five sets of rollers installed, giving It a daily capacity of 100 barrels, and the name Rice Lake Roller Mills adopted. In 1890 the saw and planing mill was leased to the Rice Lake Lumber Co. But the logging operations of the Knapp, Stout ft Co. continued, the headquarters for some 25 lumber camps be¬ ing maintained here, as well as a large gen¬ eral store, the blacksmith and general re¬ pair shops, and a log-sled manufacturing plant. Logs were towed through the lake by the steamer "Lady of the Lake" and floated down to the mills at Menomonle. The Rice Lake Roller Mills continued to operate until Oct. 20, 1911, when they were burned, and never rebuilt.

In 1885, Melkeljohn ft Hatten established a factory here for the manufacture of barrel stock. The company was represented here by E. Hartel. In the days of its activity it gave employment to about forty men. It had a cutting capacity of 50,000 staves in 24 hours, or stock for about 1,000 barrels daily. Mr. Hartel continued In the stave business until 1907.

The Rutter Hub ft Spoke Co. was estab¬ lished in Rice Lake in 1886, having been originated in Kaukauna, Wis., in 1869. Dur¬ ing the years of its activity here it had an annual output of some 45,000 sets of spokes, and 60,000 sets of hubs.

The Rice Lake Lumber Co. was incorpo¬ rated May 28, 1883, by O. H. Ingram, W. P. Tearse and William K. Coffin, the original capital being 6500,000; later considerably Increased. The company acquired large tracts of pine lands along the tributaries to the Menomonie, and also large stretches of land of mixed pine and hardwood between Long and Cedar Lakes, and along Big Chetek, Slim Lake and Lake Slssabagama. In 1890 this company leased the sawmill and planing mill of the Knapp, Stout ft Co. They quickly built up the biggest industry in the city. They erected extensive saw¬ mills and planing works, with large lumber yards, with a capacity of 36,000,000 feet of lumber annually, in addition to great quan¬ tities of lath and shingles. In 1919 the plant was sold to the Park Falls Lumber Co. It is credited with having the largest hardwood plant in the Northwest.

The Rice Lake Manufacturing Co., the Ashland Manufacturing Co. and C. Mercier ft Sons do general woodworking. The Hammond-Olsen Lumber Co. has an extensive plant. The Rice Lake Excelsior Co. has a large establishment The MacKlnnan Manu¬ facturing Co. manufactures spokes and hubs.

C. Mercier ft Sons, consisting of Cyrille Mercier and his son, Charles, had its origin in 1883, when Cyrille Mercier came to Rice Lake, and started in the general carpenter and building line. In 1889 he erected a saw¬ mill. In 1916 he branched out along broader lines, erecting a shop in which the firm makes sash and doors, and does general cabinet work. The son Charles, was ad¬ mitted as a partner in 1917.

The Rice Lake Manufacturing Co. was organized in the spring of 1893, by O. T. Johnson, J. H. Tandberg, J. Shelrud and A. Hanson, and for several years manufactured bank and office fixtures, sash, doors, blinds and interior finishing.

The F. MacKinnon Manufacturing Co. was organized at Wisconsin Rapids, this state, in 1879, by F. MacKinnon, for the manufacture of wagon hubs and spokes from Wisconsin oak. In 1902 the company entered into the farm wagon business, and put on the market the MacKinnon Wagons, with several distinct features, such as metal covered hubs, the MacKinnon steel and wood axel, and hollow steel stake. In the meantime the company continued the manu¬ facture of hubs, spokes, axels, and the like. As the supply of oak was exhausted in Wis¬ consin, John Schnabel, who had been asso¬ ciated with Mr. MacKinnon from the begin¬ ning, experimented with various woods, and finally succeeded in establishing the yellow birch hub as a substitute for the oak. In time the company added a line of steel con¬ tractors' dump wagons. In 1915, the com¬ pany bought a birch hub factory located at Hannibal, Wis. In 1919 it purchased another hub factory located by the Shaw Company at Crandon, Wis. In 1920, Influenced by the Park Falls Lumber Co., from which the com¬ pany had purchased birch logs for several years, and encouraged by the Rice Lake Chamber of Commerce it was decided to combine the Hannibal and Crandon fac¬ tories, and move them both to Rice Lake. The Park Falls Company assured the Mac¬ Kinnon Company of twenty years' supply of birch logs, gave co-operation and assistance in establishing the factory, and turned over a site and a building. The MacKinnon peo¬ ple remodelled the building, put in modern machinery of the most efficient kind, and started operations in the spring of 1920. The capacity of the Rice Lake plant is 60,000 sets (four to a set) of hubs each year, and 20,000 sets of spokes. Running at capacity the plant will employ about seventy men. John Schnabel, vice-president of the com¬ pany, had much to do with the establish¬ ment of the plant at Rice Lake. F. Mac¬ Kinnon, the president, Is now practically re¬ tired. Both these men are among the best known pioneer woodworkers in Wisconsin. R. M. MacKinnon, a son of the president, is the secretary and general manager. The other vice-president Is J. W. Jenkins.

The nammond-Olsen Lumber Co., Inc., is located at the corner of Cornell and Evans Streets, where the premises cover a full city block, with additional land along the rail¬ road where are the coal sheds and other storage sheds. In addition to its extensive general lumber yard and fuel business, the company carries barn and other equipment The business was established as a co-part¬ nership by the Hammond-Chandler Lumber Co. in 1910, was Incorporated in 1915 with a capital stock of $100,000, and In 1920 was succeeded by the present company. B. S. Hammond Is president, A. V. Olson, secre¬ tary and manager, and J. E. Rlckerman Is also actively Interested. Ole Foss has charge of a branch yard at Sarona.

The New Idea Potato Machine Co. of Rice I<ake was Incorporated In 1918, with M. A. Paulson as president and manager, Christian Frederickson, the Inventor, as vice-presi¬ dent, and R. C. Chandler as secretary and treasurer.

The company started operations on a small scale April 1, 1918, in a small one-story building. August 1 of the same year it moved to larger quarters. The present com¬ modious factory was occupied Nov. 1, 1919. An addition has since been built, so that there is now a floor space of something over 12,700 square feet. The company manufac¬ tures the New Idea Potato Graders and Con¬ veyor System and other appliances and equipment.

The Chippewa Falls ft Northern Railway, now operated by the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis ft Omaha Railway, started run¬ ning trains to Rice Lake In 1882 and was extended northward the next year. The Rice Lake, Oallas ft Menomonle Railroad Co., now operated by the Minneapolis, St. Paul ft Sault Ste. Marie, was organized in

1893. J. E. Horsman, now of the Barron County Telephone Company, was the prime mover in the organization. The branch from Rice Lake to Cameron was built in

1901. Rice Lake was given access to still another region in 1901, when the Omaha built a branch from Tuscobia to Birchwood, and the next year extended it from Birchwood.

Rice Lake was incorporated as a city in 1887. The first officers were: Mayor, D. M. Monteith; city clerk, F. M. Angel: treasurer, Ole E. Wangnild; assessor, George Collan; city attorney, William P. Swift. Aldermen - First ward, William Boehmer, Nelse Shervey; second ward, C. A. Gesell, H. Strehlau; third ward. August Boll, John Schneider; fourth ward, Henry Wilz, H. W. Drake. Su¬ pervisors - First ward, W. C. Miller; second ward, H. M. Hilliker; third ward, S. F. New¬ man; fourth ward, A. M. Olds.

The commission form of government was adopted in 1912. The council consisted of a mayor and two commissioners, who re¬ ceived a salary and devoted a part of their time to city affairs. Under this system there was a Library Board, a Park Board, a Board of Public Works, a Water and Light Board and a Board of Health appointed by the council. The Board of Education has charge of the schools and is elected direct¬ ly by the people. Late in 1921 it was voted to abolish the commission form of govern¬ ment, and to return to the old system.

The municipal improvements of Rice Lake consist of the waterworks, sewer system, electric lights, well-kept bridges and streets, a public market place, a beautiful park, and a public dumping ground. Its buildings con¬ sist of the city hall, the third and fourth ward hose houses, the park buildings, the electric works and the Isolation house for contagious cases. In addition to its public school buildings, the city owns the Training School Building, the School for the Deaf building. It also owns the beautiful Car¬ negie Library building. Orchard Beach cemetery is likewise owned by the city.

The present city hall property, on the north side of Marshall Street, about half way between Main Street and the lake, was acquired at the time the city was organized. At that time a small lock-up was standing thereon. Thereafter from time to time pro¬ vision was made for the proper housing of fire equipment there. In the meantime the city rented from James Bracklin the upper floor of a building on the present site of the Odd Fellow block, and there the council meetings were held. After the "Courthouse Building," now occupied by the Barron County Training School, was erected, it was used for some years as a city hall. The contract for the main part of the present city building to be erected on lots 6 and 7, block 6, Lakeside addition, the site of the former lock-up and engine house, was let March 25, 1902, and work was at once com¬ menced. The large vault, however, was not moved from the "Courthouse Building" until 1905. The city hall is a large building of red brick, with offices and the Are depart¬ ment equipment on the main floor, and audi¬ ence and council chambers on the second floor.

The building now occupied by the Barron County Training School was erected by the city in 1890, and was to be presented to the county as a courthouse. But the county seat aspirations were not realized. So. as already noted, it was used for a while as a city hall. It has also been used as a High School and as a library, and has been de¬ voted to its present purpose for several years past. A Jail, not far away, was also erected at the same time.

The Rice Lake Volunteer Fire Depart¬ ment was organized in May, 1889, with the following officers: Chief. J. Horby Butcher; assistant chief, S. S. Morrison; secretary, F. H. Tuttle; foreman of hose, J. P. Schaaf; foreman of hook and ladder, Joseph Manhelm; engineer, D. W. McClench. The equipment consisted at that time of a Watrous steamer, "Rice Lake No. 1," a hook and ladder truck, a hand hose cart, 800 feet of carbonized rubber hose, 200 feet of rub¬ ber-lined hose, and 1,000 feet of linen hose.

The waterworks and electric light system of Rice Lake date back to 1892. Long be¬ fore the city was organized, Knapp. Stout ft Co. installed a few lights on the public streets, furnished the oil, and provided a lighter and tender. After the city was or¬ ganized, the municipality took over the duty of providing the oil. In 1890, W. H. Willard made a proposition to the city in regard to establishing a waterworks system, and S. H. Pierce in regard to establishing an electric light system. After extended negotiations a franchise was granted on July 12, 1892, to the Rice Lake Waterworks Co. to supply the city with waterworks and an electric light system. The waterworks were com¬ pleted and approved Oct. 29, 1892, and the electric current was first turned on for the street lights May 9, 1893. Jan. 13, 1902, the city voted to take over both systems. June 1, 1909, a contract was let with the Red Cedar River Electric Co., incorporated Dec. 24, 1908, by J. S. Crisler, Oscar Hooey, N. W. Bailey and N. O. Strand, to furnish the city electric power from its plant near the dam. This was the beginning of the twenty-four hour service in the city. In 1910, the con¬ tract was renewed for ten years. When the contract expired June 1, 1920, the city re¬ opened its own plant. In the meantime, the Red Cedar River Electric Co., which had been supplying power to the cities of Rice Lake, Barron and Cameron, was sold in 1916 to the Wisconsin-Mlnnesota Light ft Power Co. This company is still furnishing the city power to supplement the power fur¬ nished by the city plant

The city water supply of Rice Lake is obtained from a 6-inch well, 220 feet deep, 20 feet In the sand and gravel. 200 feet in sandstone, striking hard rock, probably granite or the Barron quartzite formation at bottom. The elevation of the surface of the well is 1,146 feet. The water level is about 16 feet below the surface. Private wells in the city are generally from 15 to 40 feet deep in the sand and gravel.

The White Way, consisting of four blocks of five cluster lights on poles of ornamental iron work, was installed by popular sub¬ scription in 1912. Main Street, which the White Way adorns. Is a beautiful thorough¬ fare, 100 feet wide, extending the whole length of the city. Four blocks of the street were paved with creosote blocks in 1914. The sewer system, which extends through the principal streets of the city had its be¬ ginning May 6, 1910, when the first con¬ tract was let The dumping grounds on the north side were acquired in 1909. The iso¬ lation house for contagious cases is a small dwelling purchased in 1920.

The market place had proved quite a con¬ venience to the farmers. It consists of a well-located open lot. A part of it was pur¬ chased from Nathan B. Noble Dec. 19, 1890, and a part from John N. Thorp, Aug. 8, 1906.

Orchard Beach Cemetery was presented to the city in 1890 by James Bracklin. At that time lots were already owned by George Colan, C. J. Spaulding, Mrs. Wilson Ward, Mrs. Martha Hanlel and others. In making the present, Mr. Bracklin stipulated that reservations should be made for the poor, for all ex-soldiers, and for himself.

The Rice Lake Park, about three acres in extent, is a beautiful piece of land, on the shores of Rice Lake in the center of the city. It is beautifully laid out with trees, shrubs and flowering plants, and has a most picturesque hedge. Cement walks make all parts of the park of easy access.

One of the beauties of the park is the artis¬ tic cement bandstand with pergola top. There is also a suitable drinking fountain. Several small buildings have been erected for the convenience of the public. The Rice Lake Parts Association, now succeeded by the Park Board of the municipal government, was incorporated, Aug. 10, 1901, the incor¬ porators being James Robbins, E. L. Everts, E. Knudson, Sewell A. Peterson, E. N. Bowers, John C. Signor, O. M. Sattre, P. M. Parker, Charles F. Nunn and E. Hartel. The park was presented to the Association, by Knapp, Stout ft Co., Sept. 9, 1901, with the stipulation that it shall revert to the owners if it is ever used for other than park pur¬ poses for two consecutive years. It was un¬ derstood that the park was to be improved within three years without expense to the city treasurer. Near the close of this period the Association had but $9.00 in the treas¬ ury. It was then reorganized with E. Knud¬ son as president, E. L. Everts as treasurer, and James Robbins as secretary. Mr. Knud¬ son took active charge and for the next few months devoted much of his time to park affairs. A celebration on July 4, 1904, con¬ ducted on an extensive scale, brought about $900. Other money was raised by means of ball games, entertainments and private sub¬ scriptions, until the sum of $1,300 had been gathered. Under Mr. Knudson's direction the park was improved, a dormitory erected, a fountain built, walks laid out and flowers and shrubs planted. Gradual improvements have since been made. The present band¬ stand was put up in the summer of 1920.

The first school in Rice Lake was estab¬ lished in 1874, in a Knapp, Stout ft Co. building on the south side. Miss Emma Cheney was the first teacher. About the same time two private schools were taught, one by Mrs. Newton C. Abbott, in her home, on the southwest corner of Main and Humbird Streets, and one by Miss Anna Fisher, in a private home in one of the Knapp, Stout ft Co. tenement houses near the com¬ pany store. The first schoolhouse was erected in 1876, on West Newton street, on what is now the "Omaha'' right of way. This building was moved to Humblrd street and used as a residence. It is now used as a woodshed by Paul Siem. The first teacher in this building was James Barton. From there the school was moved to the old Knapp, Stout ft Co. build¬ ing. erected for a courthouse, on the corner of Main and Messenger Streets, the present site of the Odd Fellow block. The brick building, now the First Ward School, was erected in 1880, and the same year, F. D. Ensign, of the River Falls Normal School, became the first superintendent. His wife had charge of the primary department.

The school was under the district system of government until 1890, when an amend¬ ment to the city charter created a city board of education. The first paid secretary of the board was Sewell A. Peterson, at one time treasurer of the state of Wisconsin, and for some years a commanding figure here. He was followed In turn by B. I. Bliss, F. B. Tomkins and C. I. Perry.

The present board of education Is con¬ stituted as follows: Mrs. Katherine West (president), C. L. Perry (secretary), John Jacobson, John Johnson and Mrs. Josephine Moe.

The educational plant of the city now consists of a magnificent high school and four ward schools. In the first ward school yard, there Is also a small temporary build¬ ing which is likewise used for school pur¬ poses.

The first high school class was gradu¬ ated in June, 1882. The members of the class were: Rosa Roan, Rosa Washburn (French), Mrs. C. B. (Ruth Deery) Foote, Ruth Holbrook (Horsman), Kate Heller (Fitch), Augusta Peterson, Nellie Hathaway (McFarlane), William Whitaker, Milton Booth, Clarence Soper and John Tester. Of these Mrs. J. B. (Nellie Hathaway) McFar¬ lane, Mrs. J. E. (Ruth Holbrook) Horsman. and Mrs. C. E. (Ruth Deery) Foote are the only ones who live in Rice Lake at the present time.

Postal service in the logging camp days was In the hands of Knapp, Stout * Co., who had the mail brought from Menomonle with "tote" teams, and distributed to their loggers and other employes. In 1874 regular mail service was established, the trip being made by the carrier once a week from Menomonie, by way of Prairie Farm and Bar¬ ron. The following year, a semi-weekly service was Inaugurated. In 1877 there was a tri-weekly delivery from Chippewa Falls. With the coming of the railroad in 1882, the village was provided with a daily mall.

When the regular mall service was es¬ tablished in 1874, Dr. B. T. Whinnery, pio¬ neer physician, was made postmaster. He kept it in the Knapp, Stout A Co. store, lo¬ cated where the hide and fur house is now situated, south of the river and east of the street. Since then the successive postmas¬ ters have been: E. T. Bodlngton, Al. Lath, Julius Peterson, O. B. Wangnlld, J. B. Hors¬ man, Peter E. Olsen and Dr. W. H. Dunn. Peter E. Olsen had the longest term, serving from 1897 to 1916. During his administra¬ tion city delivery was established, and six rural routes Inaugurated. Dr. Dunn, who followed him. Is the present postmaster. In 1922 he moved the office to its present loca¬ tion in the old Citizens State Bank building, southeast corner of Main and Newton streets.

Co. A, Tenth Separate Battalion, Wiscon¬ sin National Guard, was organized In 1898, v»th Captain E. K. Braylon, First Lieu¬ tenant Charles Beecher and Second Lieu¬ tenant V. H. Paradis in charge, in 1915 this company became the Machine Gun Company of the Third Regiment, W. N. G. In 1916 it was called to the Mexican border ,and spent several months there.

In April, 1917, it was called into service for the World War, and at first was sta¬ tioned at Superior to guard the ore docks. In September it trained at Camp Douglas, Wls., and then went to Camp McArthur, Texas, where it became a part of the 32nd Division as Co. A, 121st Machine Gun Bat¬ talion. The company went overseas in Feb¬ ruary, 1918, and achieved great distinction on the field of battle.

Since its organization, the company has had the following captains: Sewell A. Peter¬ son, Herman Boortz, Frank G. Peterson, Dan. Remington, John McCullum and James 8colman. The following have served the company as lieutenants: Leslie Everts, Jas¬ per Olsen, John Holtz, Eugene Mattlson, it. C. Peck, Robert Phillips, Ervin Hurlburt, I1 Yank McCrank and Karl Holt*.

Beeides the Machine Gun Company from Mice Lake, Barron County had an Infantry company which was organized in July, 1917, for World War service. Inis was Co. F, Sixth Wisconsin Infantry, with Captain R. C. Peck, First Lieutenant Lee Hoyden and Sec¬ ond Lieutenant Roy Aune as officers.

This company trained at Rice Lake and Camp Douglas, Wls., then at Camp McAr¬ thur, Texas, where they became a part of the 32nd Division, the larger portion of the com¬ pany being transferred to Truck Company No. 5, 107 Supply Train, and going overseas.

Eleven church edifices supply the religious needs of the people of Rice Lake. These churches are: Bethany Norwegian Luth¬ eran, Rev. O. M. Kleven, pastor; St Joseph's Roman Catholic, Rev. A. J. Van Helden; Methodist Episcopal, Rev. C. E. Burdon; Presbyterian, Rev. L. F. Badger; Emanuel Swedish Lutheran, Rev. A. E. Bomgren; Evangelical Association, Rev. A. F. Wendorf; German Lutheran, Rev. Fritz Wichser; Grace Protestant Episcopalian, Rev. M. B. Goodall; Church of God; First Church of Christ Scientist

Four other pastors reside here. Rev. J. E. Nord, for many years pastor of the Bethany Norwegian Lutheran Church and the founder of nearly all the Norwegian churches in this part of the state, continued to make this bis home. Rev. J. E. Kundert district superin¬ tendent of the Superior district of the West Wisconsin conference of the Methodist Epis¬ copal Church lives here. Rev. J. N. Mills and T. L. Hancock, retired pastors of the same denominations, also live here.

The Methodist Episcopal Church. In the year 1836, Rev. Alfred Brunson was trans¬ ferred from Pittsburg to the Illinois Confer¬ ence of the Methodist Episcopal Church and was appointed superintendent of the Indian Missions on the upper Mississippi. He took up his residence at Prairie du Chlen, and from there made a number of Interesting trips. In 1842 he was appointed sub-Indian agent for the Bad River band of Chippewa

Indians of Lake Superior, with a station at La Points on Madeline Island. The usual route from Prairie du Chlen to La Polnte was by way of the Wisconsin Hirer, the Portage, Pox River, Green Bay, Lake Michi¬ gan, Sault 8te Marie and Lake Superior. But some English miners in the southwestern part of the state, wishing to go to the copper mines on Lake Superior, on hearing of Mr. Brunson's appointment proposed to him that they join forces, secure the necessary teams, horses, oxen and wagons and make the trip overland. There was then no road above Prairie du Chien. But the proposition was accepted and the trip made. The route fol¬ lowed by this expedition crossed the eastern part of Barron County. Mr. Brunson's nar¬ rative of the trip mentions a pipe stone quarry in what is now Barron County. There are three pipestone quarries northeast of Canton. Mr. Bronson therefore passed to the eastward of that village. Which side of the Cbetek lakes the party passed is not known. From the quarry the course lay due north some ten miles to where they crossed the Red Cedar (Menomonle) River below Cedar Lake.

In 1856 the Minnesota conference was formed. In 1859 at the fourth session of the Minnesota Conference, held at St. Anthony, now Minneapolis, John Dyre was appointed wo a circuit then known as Dunvllle and Menomonle, and largely consisting of what is now Dunn County.

He came to the outlet of Rice Lake in the summer of 1860. Just what route he fol¬ lowed is unknown as no mention is made in his narrative of any place until he reached what he calls "Grover's Camp," one and a half miles from the outlet of the lake. There he left his horse in the old lumber camp stable because the trail was blocked by fallen timber. Prom this point he pro¬ ceeded on foot until he reached the lake about half way to the outlet, where he found some Indian women fishing. He pursuaded these Indians te take him by canoe to their camp at the outlet where he found about twenty Indians, but no whites.

That same evening a French half breed who could talk no English took him back to "Grover's Camp." They arrived just at the beginning of a terrible thunder storm. Dyre had only a small piece of bread and butter for supper, slept on some old hay in the stable, and in the morning with no break¬ fast turned his face southward toward the nearest settlement on the Hay River, which was probably the Prairie Farm settlement.

He says that there had recently been a battle between the Sioux and the Chippewa near this settlement and that the battle scars on the trees were still visible. There he held service, the first of its kind in that settlement, and probably the first in what is now Barron County. The attendance was about thirty-five, and those present were "all attention". The congregation probably con¬ sisted of the Knapp-Stout employes at Prairie Farm, and the few settlers scattered near the county line to the southward.

which first appears in the conference min¬ utes of 1849 as Chippewa Mission. From year to year the outpoints on this charge were steadily pushed northward, and were in turn replaced by separate charges. Vanvale, fifteen miles northwest of Chippewa Falls was made a separate charge in 1868, and Bloomer in 1869. In 1874, H. H. bitter was appointed to the Bloomer charge in the Chippewa district. When appointed he lived at Vanvllle. He preached more or less regu¬ larly at Rice Lake.

In the spring of 18/5, Mr. Sllter resigned for personal reasons and the Presiding Elder, W. 8. Wright, of Eau Claire, appointed William Galloway to succeed him. At that time services were held regularly by the Methodists, and occasionally by other de¬ nominations, in the old Court House, lo¬ cated on the present site of the Odd Fellow building at the corner of Main and Messen¬ ger streets. A Union Sunday school met regularly in the same building.

In the fall of 1876, the Barron County Cir¬ cuit was created, to which Mr. Galloway was appointed. During Mr. Galloway's service, talk of a Methodist Church building com¬ menced, but the building did not material¬ ise for some years. The "Methodist Society" apparently was organized in 1874, or prior thereto, but it appears impossible to fix the date accurately.

In these days the financial support of the pastor was a rather spasmodic effort, "dona¬ tions" and oyster suppers were familiar oc¬ currences, the usual charge being fl.50 a couple. Sometimes the supper was preceded by an afternoon of sports, curling being a favorite game. In the spring of 1876 the Chronotype inquired "When are we to have that Donation Party"? The editor then went on to say: "Oliver Cromwell said: 'The Lord is on our side, but we must have shoes.' Brother Galloway believes that he has the good will of all, and we know that he must have money."

In June, 1876, the Congregational Church was organized at Rice Lake. The Congregationallsts and Methodists then alternated in holding services in "the hall", this giving Hice Lake a preaching service every week.

In the fall of this year, the Barron charge was transferred to the St. Croix District of which William Haw of Hudson was presid¬ ing elder. W. P. Hathaway was appointed to this charge, but in December was suc¬ ceeded by K. A. Fulmur of Prairie Farm. In January, 1877, the two churches joined in a three weeks' series of revival meetings. In April a choir concert was held in the hall, the proceeds to go toward a new organ. Tickets were 81.00 a couple and prizes were awarded. Later in the spring Mr. Hathaway resigned, H. C. Carter, also of Prairie Farm being appointed by the conference of 1877. In 1878 W. 8. Taylor, and In 1879 J. H*. Mc¬ Manus were respectively appointed to the Sumner Circuit which included Rice Lake, ror several years, W. D. Atwater had been presiding elder but in 1881 he was succeeded by M. Benson, then of Hudson. At the same time the Rice Lake charge was created, con¬ sisting of several preaching stations.

The reports of this time show no prop¬ erty at Rice Lake. The number of proba¬ tioners were thirty-one, and of full members seventy-three. The minister's salary was 8500 of which there was a flu deficiency. The benevolent collections amounted to |4o and the Bishop, Presiding Elder and Conference claimants apportionments were paid in full. The Sunday school continued Union in name but Methodist in fact, as were all the Sunday schools in the county.

In 1883 the St. Croix District was renamed the Hudson District, Rice Lake being made a part thereof. The presiding elder lived in Madison. In the meantime the number of probationers at Rice Lake had decreased to four, and of full members to forty-eight. Fin¬ ances also had fallen off.

The presiding elder's reports were first in¬ cluded in the minutes of the Conference of 1883. According to Dr. Benson's report of this year the Rice Lake charge then included three villages.

James Conner, a local preacher, supplied at Rice Lake in the year 1883 and during the closing days of the year the cornerstone of the new church was laid. The charge was feeble, but had fine opportunities for devel¬ opment according to Dr. Benson's report. Membership and finances were better and a Sunday school was organized.

Mr. Connor was continued by the Confer¬ ence of 1884 but the charge was left to be supplied in 1885 and 1886. John Haw had charge during a part of this time and in Maroh, 1886, the Rice Lake church was dedi¬ cated, valued at $1,800. In 1886, H. W. Bushnell succeeded M. Benson as presiding elder, and Barron was separated from the Rice Lake charge. At the conference of 1887, the Ashland District was created and Rice Lake was left to be supplied. Later M. C. Alley was secured, and under his direction the membership tripled during the year. Fin¬ ances were very poor.

Qeorge Brown was appointed for the year 1888-90 and saw unprecedented benevolent collections and large payments on the church debt as well as increased membership. He sacrificed much himself financially. E. P. Sanderson succeeded him in 1890. Mr. Spears left late in the year, and A. W. Partch was secured to finish the year. G. W. Pepper was appointed in 1892 and S. N. Griffith in 1893, 1894 and 189b. During these years the church grew stronger financially. A. J. Davis was made presiding elder in 1893. A parsonage was built at Rice Lake during the year 1894-95. W. P. Burrows was pastor in this charge from 1896 to 1901. In 1898 the entire church debt was removed through a gift from Mrs. E. A. Spencer. In 1901, A. M. Pilcher of Eau Claire being presiding elder, J. N. Mills commenced his two years' pastorate, during the second year of which F. M. Haight was appointed presiding elder. E. D. Johnson succeeded Mr. Mills and also served two years. During the second year of his term, the old church property on Douglas street was disposed of, and the church build¬ ing was moved to the newly purchased lot on Messenger street where it was enlarged. At the end of these improvements the indebted¬ ness amounted to $400.

In 1905, L. E. Squires succeeded Mr. John¬ son and in turn was followed by H. B. Bortel who was in charge two years. In 1908 the office of presiding elder was changed to that of district superintendent and J. W. Irish was appointed to fill the newly named office. In the same year, William Philpott commenced his four-year pastorate at Rice Lake. He was followed by E. R. Little, dur¬ ing whose pastorate of one year the church was rebuilt, the dedication taking place under the direction of Bishop Quayle in the summer of 1912.

In the fall of 1912, C. N. Galloway was ap¬ pointed pastor. In 1914, tne Superior Dis¬ trict succeeded the Ashland District, and Dr. J. E. Kundert was appointed district super¬ intendent and E. L. Cooper pastor. Dr. Kun¬ dert is still serving.

During the pastorate of Rev. E. L. Cooper, which lasted from September, 1914, to Sep¬ tember, 1920, much advance was made in every direction. The church membership was increased from 134 to 255; the value of me church property from $12,000 to $15,000; the Sunday school enrollment from 175 to 217; the membership in the Young People's Leagues from 35 to 45; the ministerial from $1,138 to $2,070, and benevolent offerings from $137 to $1,019. The church indebted¬ ness was decreased from $6,725 to $4,000.

In September, 1920, the Annual Confer¬ ence was held at Rice Lake, presided over by Bishop Charles Bayard Mitchell, D. D., LL. D., and Rev. C. Ernest Burdon appointed pastor at Rice Lake. At once under this new leadership, officials of the various de¬ partments of the church organised closely for an advance toward certain objectives laid down for the year, and by careful planning and prayerful working the plan, the objec¬ tive was passed in almost every Instance. In the one year, 1920-21, the church membership increased from 255 to 354; the value of the church property from $15,000 to $22,000; the Sunday school enrollment from 217 to 308; to membership in the Young People's Socie¬ ties from 45 to 147; the ministerial support from $2,070 to $3,000; and the benevolent offerings from $1,019 to $2,005.

The coming year is expected to be the banner year in the history of the church. Some time in the spring the Lakeside Meth¬ odist Hospital, built at an outlay of $150,000, will be dedicated. It is expected, too, that in the near future a new church plant will be erected, fully in keeping with the hospital.

In addition to the flourishing Sunday school, and the Epworth and Junior Leagues, the church has a flourishing Ladies Aid So¬ ciety and other organisations.

standing south of the School for the Deaf, but then located on the present site of the Odd Fellows' Block. The building was erect¬ ed as a Courthouse In 1874, and afterward used for various purposes. For a time the upper story was the City Hall, and for a time the lower story was the postoffice. The first church edifice used by the Presbyterians was a little chapel on West Humblrd street, dedicated Sept. 9, 1883. Later this chapel was moved to a site opposite the present cburch. Mr. Chapin was succeeded in 1884 uy Rev. S. Phoenix. He was succeeded late in 1888 by Rev. William Omelvena. Mr. Omelvena remained but a short time. After his departure services were maintained for a while by Alden Bliss, a local layman. Late in December, 1889, Rev. Thomas S. Waller was called to the pulpit. He also had a charge at Chetek. Neither congregation was self supporting, and the Home Mission So¬ ciety contributed funds to keep the churches open. The present church was erected in 1893. In 1894, Mr. Waller was succeeded by the Rev. D. C. Jones, who remalnea until 1899. Then for a year Rev. Palm was pas¬ tor. During his pastorate the "Manse ' was erected. To complete this building $900 was borrowed from the Church Erection Board. After Mr. Palm left for a while there was a vacancy in the pastorate. Rev. Lanman preached here for a few months. Next Mr.. Koons, a student, was called, and occupied the pulpit for a year. During his pastorate the church for the first time became self supporting. Mr. Koons was succeeded by Mr. Erickson. He died before the expiration of his first year, and Mr. Melrose, a student, was called. Under his supervision an annex to the church was constructed. Mr. Melrose resigned and Mr. Conger, a student, was called. It is interesting to note that he went from here to Russia to work among the Ger¬ man prisoners. After he left here for three months there was no regular pastor although the pulpit was filled every Sunday. Then Rev. U. G. Lacey was called. He was suc¬ ceeded by the present pastor. Rev. L. F. Badger. The church has an excellent La¬ dies' Aid Society organised in the spring of 1883. The Sunday school and the other church organisations are in flourishing con¬ dition.

Mrs. Horace W. Drake, who has furnished the Information for this article has many interesting stories to tell of the work of the church and of the Ladies' Aid Society in the early days. She says:

"In the latter part of August, 1882, Mr. Drake and myself started from Shell Lake to Rice Lake. After reaching Cumberland, in Barron County, we stopped at the Collingwood House. Upon making inquiry we learned from the proprietor that a traveling missionary was about to start out with a team of horses that Mr. Montelth, a prom¬ inent business man, had left at the hotel to be returned to Rice Lake by some reliable person. It was then that we made the ac¬ quaintance of the Rev. W. V. Chapin, who consented to take us with him. After a drive of eighteen miles over the rough roads we reached Rice Lake in safety and went to the home of my sister. There my mother met the missionary, and it was thus that she became a charter member of the church he was to organize. After he had been preaching here about six months, the La¬ dies' Aid Society was organized, with about ten members, the first president being Mrs. Dean. I was one of the members. We did a great deal of entertaining. Our work most of the time was giving dinners and fairs, piecing quilts, making comforters, sewing carpet rags and manufacturing paper flow¬ ers. I remember that I made one bouquet of roses which I sold to Mr. Nunn for fifty cents. Our annual fairs were great events, held in vacant buildings, and lasting from two to three days. The members manufac¬ tured everything sold, and sometimes made as much as $200 or $300. Our society worked hard in those days and all the money we made we paid toward the minister's salary. When the first little chapel was to be cleaned before it was opened, we cleaned it of spat¬ tered lime, and took turns scrubbing the floors and windows. The first heating stove was donated by Judge Swift. In the summer the mosquitoes were a great nuisance, and In the winter time the pastor, Mr. Chapin, had to dig a path through the deep snow so that the congregation could get into the chapel. Three of our pastors, the Rev. Messrs. Koons, Melrose and Conger, brought their brides here. The church is now in a prosperous condition, and in watching the eager workers of the younger generation in the various church organizations, we older ones are glad that such worthy hands are taking up the task of carrying on the work that we began some four decades ago."

The Emanuel Congregation of the Swedish Lutheran Church of Rice Lake, Wis., was or¬ ganized June 17, 1886. Prior to this time, Rev. J. D. Nelsenius of Ashland, Wis., had visited Rice Lake, and preached the gospel to the Scandinavians there. As there was no church building at the time, the home of Anders Knudson was used as a "church." The first members of the newly organized congregation were:

Anders Knudson and wife, Anders Sorderstrom and wife, Nels P. Hornqulst and wife, A. J. Anderson and wife, Jacob Peterson (the only one now living, 1922) and wife.

Rev. Nelsenius was called to the office of vice pastor with the understanding that he should visit the congregation once each month. Coming all the way from Ashland, Wis., twelve times in the year and for tak¬ ing general charge of the entire work he was paid the sum of seventy-five dollars. Thus the faithful pioneer continued to serve the congregation until the year 1891. He was succeeded by Rev. August Bengston, who was called to take charge of the work in 1891. Rev. Bengston served the congrega¬ tion but four years. In April, 1896, Rev. A. J. Malmqulst was called. He served the congregations at Rice Lake, Cumberland, Snell Lake and Hayward, until the early spring of 1903.

This was accepted. In December, the same year, an extra congregational meeting was held, at which It was decided to erect a church. The following were elected to serve on the Building Committee: Gustave Floberg, Andera Knudson, August Nordeen, Carl Anderson, J. Johnson and isack Jon son. A church was finally built in 1898. The ceme¬ tery, located three miles southwest of the city, was secured about this time.

Rev. Erick Edmund, M. succeeded Rev. Malmqulst in the year of 1903 and served until spring of 1906. He wall succeeded by Rev. Olaf Nordblad, who remained but one year. In 1906 xtev. J. A. Forstlund was called. He served the congregation for three years and was succeeded in 1911 by Rev. Elmer, who served his congregation until his death in 1913. Olaf F. Domay, then a student in the Augustana Theological Semi¬ nary at Rock Island, Ill., was called. He ac¬ cepted and served until the spring of 1918. Then the present pastor. Rev. A. E. Qomgrew, then a theological student, was called, and has since served.

The church was rebuilt in 1920 at the cost of approximately 310,000. The church prop¬ erty, the cemetery not included, is now valued at 316,600. The total membership is two hundred and fifty souls.

The Evangelical Church of Rice Lake dates back nearly forty years. The work of the Evangelical Church on the Rice Lake Mission started in the year 1883. Rev. David Schneider being pastor of tbe Barron County Mission and living at Prairie farm, came over to Rice Lake and held services in a schoolhouse two miles south of Rice Lake, and at the same time he also started preach¬ ing nine miles northwest of Rice Lake, what is now the WIesner Cnurch. In 1894 a church was built at Rice Lake, Rev. H. Ninneman being pastor. At the Wiesner congregation the meetings were held for a number of years in the houses, but during the labor of Rev. G. E. Zellmer in the year 1908, a church was built. During the same year a church was also built five miles north-west of Barron which is known as the Hope church. A parsonage was built in Rice Lake in 1906.

The following ministers served on the field: David Schneider, L. M. Slewert, F. A. Munat, E. W. Gassman, H. Ninneman, W. F. Berg, G. H. Scheible, F. Reichert, David Schneider. H. P. Gordan, H. Haag, G. E. Zellmer, G. F. Hack, B. O. Maschmann, E. W. Marks, Jacob Schneller, and A. F. Wendorf.

The first members of the Rice Lake Church were Philipp Henrich, Elizabeth Henrich, Frank Henrich, Anna Henrich, Carl Hoffman, Emille Hoffman, Barbara Rauchenstien, Robert Krueger.

The first members of the Wiesner Church were Herman Wiesner, Ernstine Wiesner, William Wille, Augusta Wille, Henry Weilep, William Wiesner. Alvina Wiesner.

The first members of the North Barron (Hope) Church were Fred Schranz. Bertha Schranz, Edward Boyk, Mary Bcyk, Chris¬ tian Aellig, Ursula Aellig.

dles' Aid Societies were also organized, one at Rice Lake and the other at North Bar¬ ron. In the Wiesner Church the young people have an active Young People's Alliance.

St Joseph's Roman Catholic Church was started in 1880, as a mission from Our Lady of Lourdes at Dobie, by Rev. J. Dole. Tbe brick church building was erected in the same year. The first resident pastor was Rev. M. Schoelch. He remained eight months, when the church again became a mission of Stanfold. This method of min¬ istration was continued until July 9, 1889. when Rev. P. Becker was appointed rector. Under his pastorate the parsonage was erected in 1889, and St. Joseph's school in 1890. Both are of brick. The latter is 30 by 60 feet, with two stories and base¬ ment.

The Protestant Episcopal Church In Bar¬ ron County. The missions and parishes of the church in Barron County are part of the La Crosse Convocation and are directly under the supervision of the Archdeacon of La Crosse, Diocese of Milwaukee, Bishop W. W. Webb of Milwaukee being the bishop of this diocese.

Charles Nunn and F. M. Angel and fam¬ ilies settled in Rice Lake in 1876. They were the first church families here. The James Bracklin and S. S. Morrison families came in 1876.

Strenuous efforts were made by these families to obtain the ministrations of a priest, but it was not until March 23, 1879, that they had an opportunity of listening to a sermon by an Episcopal minister, Rev. P. B. Morrison of Eau Claire. The service was held in a building on the site of the present Odd Fellows' Hall. Occasional services were held in 1879 by Rev. E. R. Sweetland. The first missionary preacher assigned to the parish was Rev. A. P. Peabody who vis¬ ited Rice Lake once a month, from 1880 to

1882. In the fall of 1880 the primal steps were taken to obtain a lot for the erection of a church edifice. Rt Rev. EX R. Welles, S. T. D., third bishop of Wisconsin, made his first visit to the village May 10, 1881 and confirmed three persons. The services were held in the old city hall building. A mission was organized in June, 1881, and placed in charge of Rev. S. J. Yunt in July, 1882, with Rev. Charles 8. Sleight as assistant. F. W. Angel was warden; 8. 8. Morrison, treas¬ urer, and G. H. Baiwalse, clerk. Sept. 21.

1883, the corner stone of the church was laid, Bishop Welles officiating. The first services were held in it June 3, 1884, when the Bishop conducted the services. There were four baptisms and four confirmations.

St. Mark's Church, Barron, was organized in 1894 by the Rev. E. F. Gee. Major EX N. Stebbins is really the one to whom the church in Barron owes the most. He was the first churchman to settle at Barron, and it was largely due to his untiring efforts that Barron now has one of the prettiest and best furnished churches in Barron County. St Mark's was consecrated by the

St. Phillip's Church, Turtle Lake, was organized in 1901. The parish has a very little church building properly fur¬ nished and the Archdeacon of La Cross sees that regular services are held there.

There is a church at Cumberland that has been closed owing to the lack of men to look after it. Plans are being made to open it within the coming year.

St Hugh's Mission at Chetek has had a long history also, it has never been organ¬ ized but services are held there from time to time by the missionary of Rice Lake and Chippewa Falls.

The only resident rector in Barron County is the Rev. M. B. Goodall, who re¬ sides at Rice Lake, and is the priest in chargo of Grace Church at Rice Lake and St. Mark's at Barron, as well as of other Barron County Missions.

The Barron County Bank, located at Rice Lake, is the oldest bank in Barron County. It was organized In 1882 by N. W. Bailey, a merchant of Richland Center, Richland County, this state, who saw in the growing hamlet an opportunity far establishing a flourishing financial institution. He opened the bank at the southeast corner of Humbird and Main streets, his wife, Mrs. Anna B. Bailey, after his marriage, being his as¬ sistant. In 1888 the banking rooms were moved to the northwest corner of Eau Claire and Main streets, the present loca¬ tion. The building thus occupied was later burned, but was at once replaced with the present structure. The institution was in¬ corporated as a state hank, July 29, 1903, with a capital of $10,000, the officers and stockholders being: N. W. Bailey (presi¬ dent), Miss A. Pauline Bernard (vice presi¬ dent), and Mrs. Anna B. Bailey (cashier). July 15, 1909, Edolph G. Shervey became assistant cashier. A reorganization was ef¬ fected March 2, 1911. Mr. Bailey remained president, D. F. Clark became vice presi¬ dent, and William D. Brady became cashier. Mr. Shervey was still assistant cashier. Oct. 16, 1914, the capital was Increased to $25,000. Aug. 7, 1916, Mr. Clark became president, Mr. Brady vice president, and Mr. 8bervey cashier. At that time Henry O. Moe was made assistant cashier. Mr. Moe volunteered the day after the United States entered the World War, became a second lieutenant, and was killed in action in France. Carl G. Hagen became assis¬ tant cashier Sept. 6, 1919, and was suc¬ ceeded March 29, 1920 by Harvey I. Amund¬ son. March 16, 1920, Miss lone Quinn be¬ came bookkeeper, and on Jan. 12, 1921, Melvin Newberg was added to the staff in a similar capacity.

The financial statement of the bank is¬ sued Nov. 15. 1920, was as follows: Re¬ sources - Loans, discounts, rediscounts and overdrafts, $444,584.18; United States se¬ curities and other bonds, $16,878.20; bank¬ ing house, furniture and fixtures, $8,000;

The First National Bank of Rice Lake, the largest bank in Barron County, dates its uninterrupted operation back to the fall of 1888, when E. L. Everts, then a Rice Lake business man, opened a private bank in the historic old Ringllng building, so called, at the southwest corner of Main and Newton streets. A year later, Oct. 28, 1889, the Institution wad incorporated as the Bank of Rice Lake, with a capital of $25,000, the incorporators being: President, Louis 8. Tainter; vice president, Nathan B. No¬ ble; cashier, Edward L. Everts; assistant cashier, Charles Nunn. These gentlemen were all from Rice Lake, except Mr. Tain¬ ter, who lived in Menomonie. Mr. Nunn died, and on Nov. 29, 1890, James Bracklin was appointed director in his place. Jan. 14, 1896, Mr. Bracklin was made vice president in place of Mr. Noble. F. T. Watson was added to the board of directors Jan. 13, 1894. B. I. Bliss became assistant cashier Jan. 19, 1896. When the bank closed its books Jan. 2, 1900, the officers were: President, Louis 8. Tainter; vice president, James Bracklin; cashier, Edward L. Everts; assistant cashier, B. L Bliss; and the directors were the Messrs. Tainter, Everts, Noble, Bracklin and Watson. The institution was reorganized Jan. 3, 1900. with a capital of $50,000 as the Bank of Rice Lake. The incorporators were: Louis S. Tainter, Menomonie (president); James Bracklin, Rice Lake (vice president); Ed¬ ward L. Everts, Rice Lake (cashier); Wil¬ liam H. Hatten, New London; Nathan B. Noble, Rice Lake, and O. H. Ingram, Eau Claire. The three officers constituted the board of directors* B. I. Bliss was made assistant cashier and L. S. Everts was made second assistant cashier. On Jan. 12, 1901, Mr. Bracklin having died, there was a re¬ arrangement of the directorate. O. H. In¬ gram, Eau Claire lumberman, was made president and W. H. Bundy vice president E. L. Everts was retained as cashier and B. I. Bliss as assistant cashier, and the latter was also made a director. The fifth director was C. A. Chamberlin. L. S. Everts was continued as second assistant cashier. Jan. 81, 1902, Mr. Bliss resigned. William H. Hatten took his place as direc¬ tor, and L. 8. Everts took his place as as¬ sistant cashier. Jan. 6, 1903 it was voted to convert the institution into a National Bank. In the meantime, Feb. 18, 1892, the bank had purchased two lots which the present bank occupies, and erected a bank¬ ing house thereon.

The First National Bank of Rice Lake, reorganized from the Bank of Rice Lake, opened for business April 8, 1903, the for¬ mer institution having closed out the night before. The first board of directors con¬ sisted of: O. H. Ingram (president), W. H. Bundy (vice president), E. L. Everts (cashigitized by GoOgle ier), C. A. Chamberlin and W. H. Hatten. L. S. Everts was assistant cashier. O. H. Ingram was succeeded as director Jan. 14, 1919, by William H. Hatton, who was suc¬ ceeded Jan. 13, 1920, by E. H. Bjoin. W. H. Hatton, who was one ot the original direc¬ tors, was succeeded July 14, 1909 by Oscar Hooey, but, as noted, resumed office again tor a year in 1919, as O. H. Ingram's suc¬ cessor. C. A. Chamberlin was succeeded as director Feb. 12, 1912, by Orrin Ingram. E. L. Everts was succeeded as director on Aug. 1, 1910, by Nels Stolheim, who was succeeded Feb. 17, 1914 by W. A. Demers. W. H. Bundy was succeeded as director May 21, 1909, by J. E. Horsman. Jan. 1, 1914, O. M. Sattre became the sixth member ot the board and is still serving. Jan. 10, 1905, C. H. Ingram became the seventh member ot the board and was succeeded Jan. 8, 1907 by E. B. Ingram. The first president, O. H. Ingram, served until his death in 1918. He was succeeded Jan. 14. 1919, by E. B. Ingram. Jan. 13, 1920, Dr. O. M. Sattre became president. W. H. Bundy, the original vice president, was suc¬ ceeded July 14, 1909, by O. M. Sattre, who in turn, was succeeded Jan. 13, 1920, by J. E. Horsman. E. L. Everts, the cashier, was succeeded Aug. 1, 1910 by Nels Stalhelm. Nov. 26, 1913, Mr. Stalheim being ill, W. A. Demers was appointed secretary ot the board ot directors, and on Oct. 14, 1914, atter Mr. Stalhelm's death, was made cashier. L. E. Everts was the original first assistant cashier. He resigned Oct 16, 1907, and ten days later W. A. Demers was appointed, succeeded Feb. 14, 1914, by Carl E. Overby. Carl E. Overby was the original second assistant, appointed Oct 16, 1907. He was succeeded Jan. 13, 1915, by T. G. Hoff. Henry O. Moe was ap¬ pointed third assistant Nov. 17, 1913, and served for a short time. March 21, 1917, Peder Peterson (Aas) Jr., was appointed. He served as second assistant during Mr. Hoff's service in the United States forces, July, 1917, to June, 1919. Of the present staff, Mr. Demers has been with the bank since Nov. 1, 1907, Mr. Overby since Feb. 20, 1902, Mr. Hoff since Oct. 26. 1911, and Mr. Peterson since March 16, 1915. The Institution Joined the Federal Reserve sys¬ tem Feb. 17, 1914. The bank has the finest banking house in the county, fully equipped for the best methods. The building is of Bedford stone, two stories high, with full mahogany. The banking house interior is finished in marble and mahogany. A fea¬ ture is the comfortable space reserved for the patrons to be used as a rest room, for business appointments and committees and board meetings. Work on remodelling the old building was started in the spring of 1916, but after the work was started the plans were altered, so that the present building is practically a new structure. It was formerly opened Feb. 24, 1917.

The Citizens State Bank of Rice Lake was organized as a private institution in 1900. It was incorporated as a state bank in 1903 with a capital of 510,000. In May. 1915, it was reorganized with a capital ot 835,000, and a surplus of 53.500, with 37 stockholders, the owners being local busi¬ ness men, retired farmers and neighboring farm owners. The first officers and direc¬ tors were: Martin Bretl, president and di¬ rector; C. D. Nelson, vice president and director; J. H. Wilz, cashier; A. G. Bilo¬ deau, assistant cashier; D. J. Ryan, Fred H. Gardner. Henry L. Stout, John Plenty. James Hanson, W. H. Clark and Ben Knudson, directors.

Connected with the bank is the Rice Lake Farm Loan Association of which Mr. Wilz is secretary. This association is connected with the Federal Land Bank of St. Paul.

The present officers, directors and stock¬ holders of the bank are as follows: J. H. Johnson, president and director; C. D. Nel¬ son, vice president and director; John Plenty, vice president and director; J. H. Wilz, cashier and director; Fred Baumberger, director; M. Flnsterwalder, direc¬ tor; James Hanson, director; R. E. Finsterwalder, assistant cashier; Griffen Nel¬ son, assistant cashier; Stacer Martin, as¬ sistant cashier; J. I. Dahl, William A. Weilep, Henry Wilz, George N. Keesey, Peter Thome, A. C. Robarge, Zeno Wilkin¬ son, John Mallo, Joseph Schleiss, Jake Sva* cina, Adolf Knenzl, Edward Kuenzi. J. P. Schneider, Spooner Mercantile Co., and Otto Stewert.

The bank has had a steady and satisfac¬ tory growth. In 1915 the deposits were 5107,000, which have increased to 5500,000. There is a surplus of 83,000 and undivided profits of about 87,100. This remarkable growth is due in a large measure to the untiring efforts of the cashier, J. H. Wilz, ably backed by the other officers and direc¬ tors, and is also indicative of the Increasing prosperity of the region.

For some years the institution occupied quarters at the southeast corner of Main and Newton streets. In 1891 the present modern banking house was completed. It is 26.4 by 112 feet, two stories and a base¬ ment, all modernly equipped, with the hank offices finished in the latest designs, while the upper floor Is admirably adapted to its use as a series of professional offices.

The building is practically lire proof. Tho exterior is constructed of vitrified, wire cut, face brick, with Bedford stone trim¬ mings, and the interior is finished with Na¬ poleon gray marble with York Fosel base, and quarter-sawed oak and Magnestone floors throughout. It occupies the south¬ west corner of Main and Newton streets, the historic site where A. Rlngling for so many years had his harness shop, and where the Rlngling Brothers, his sons, of circus fame, had their early dreams of the success which was later to be theirs.

The bank building was designed by the combined efforts of the board of directors and the building committee which consisted of J. P. Schneider, John Plenty, A. C. Robarge, Max Finsterwalder and J. H. Wllz.

In designing the building, not only has the absolute security of money and val¬ uables of the bank's customers been con¬ sidered. but also has the convenience and comfort of its patrons and employes been deeply borne in mind. Its construction was superintended by Cashier J. H. Wilz and Max Finsterwalder.

The bank does the customary business of such an institution, makes loans to farmers and business men, handles check¬ ing, savings and general deposit accounts, attends to collections, does conveyancing and notary work, and issues drafts good throughout the United States and travelers' checks good throughout the world. It also bolds the local agency for various leading insurance companies.

The Barron County Telephone Co. head¬ quarters are now located in Rice Lake, having been moved from Barron in the spring of 1922. The history of the com¬ pany, Including the part which J. E. Horsman has played in its success, will be found under the head of Barron City in this volume.

On Feb. 21, 1922, when it was decided to move the headquarters from Barron to Rice Lake, the officers selected were: President, Dr. O. M. Sattre, Rice Lake; vice presi¬ dent, Charles A. Taylor, Rice Lake; secre¬ tary and general manager, J. E. Horsman; treasurer, W. A. Demers, Rice Lake. These gentlemen, with A. O. Strand, constitute the board of directors.

St. Joseph's Hospital, at Rice Lake, opened its doors under its present organi¬ zation, Jan. 8. 1918. The first hospital in Rice Lake was a private institution, started in 1914 by Dr. Allan S. White, then a prac¬ ticing physician and surgeon of Rice Lake, who saw in his practice the necessity of establishing a hospital where patients might be properly treated. Accordingly he purchased a building on Chamberlain street, fitted it up with modern equipment.

and engaged suitable assistants. Shortly afterward he conceived the idea of secur¬ ing a staff of nursing sisters. Accordingly he carried on an extensive correspondence with various Mother Houses. Finally, after long and anxious search, word was re¬ ceived that the Mother Superior of the Mother House of the Sisters of St. Francis, at Victoria, Vancouver Island, Canada, saw here the opportunity for service. Accord¬ ingly, there arrived in Rice Lake, Dec. 31, 1917, Sister Mary Alphonse and Sister Mary Veronica. In the meantime in 1915, Dr. D. C. Whiting had opened the Rice Lake Hospital in the old hotel building, east of Main street and north of the Red Cedar River. Later he sold this hospital to Dr. O. M. Sattre. The Sisters, on their arrival here, purchased the building of the Rice Lake Hospital from Dr. Sattre, and moved thereto the equipment from Dr. White's hospital. They opened the doors of the reorganized hospital, Jan. 8, 1918. In the summer of 1919, the Sisters purchased a building at 15 West Newton street, and fully equipped it as a twelve-bed hospi¬ tal. The nursing staff now consists of four Sisters headed by Sister Mary Alphonse, Mother Superior. In 1920, three adjoining lots were purchased. Plans are now under way for the erection of a fine forty-bed institution, which will be a model of its kind in every way.

In February, 1919, the Methodist Episco¬ pal Church in the Western part of Wis¬ consin, first engaged in active hospital work by taking over the Stoeber Hospital at Mad¬ ison. At the sixty-fifth session of the West Wisconsin Annual Conference of this church, held at Eau Claire in 1919, it was definitely decided that the Wisconsin Meth¬ odist Hospital Association should proceed to establish additional hospitals throughout the state as might become advisable. Ac¬ cordingly the officers of the Association came to Rice Lake in September, 1919, and investigated the prospects for establishing a hospital here. During the fall, there was held in -St. Paul, a meeting of representa¬ tive pastors and laymen from the entire Conference of the Methodist Church, by whom the Rice Lake hospital project was thoroughly discussed and approved.

In December of the same year there was begun the actual organization of the Rice Lake hospital under the auspices of the Wisconsin Methodist Hospital Association, a Wisconsin corporation, authorized by the West Wisconsin Conference of the Method¬ ist Episcopal Church. On Dec. 17, 1919, a meeting was called in Rice Lake to which were invited some of the leading farmers and business and professional men of Rice Lake and vicinity. The proposition was then discussed and all present agreed to serve upon the Board of Managers.

A preliminary canvass for funds was then made in order to determine how the general public felt toward the project The reaction was so favorable that decision was at once made to erect a new building as soon as possible. Investigation showed that the territory to be served was sadly lacking in hospital facilities, and Inasmuch as the preparation of plans and the erection of a new building would require many months of time it was decided to open a hospital in temporary quarters. Accordingly, the board leased and later bought the building which had been erected by Knapp Stout ft Company for a hotel In the early days of Rice Lake. This building was remarkably well arranged for hospital purposes, having been used as a hospital before, and when thoroughly refinished and furnished with the best of hospital equipment it made a convenient and efficient 24-bed hospital. It was opened for business March 1, 1920.

In the meantime plans for the new build¬ ing were progressing. A commanding loca¬ tion had been purchased at the head of Main Street, overlooking the city to the south, and the lake to the east and north. Weeks were spent with architects, special¬ ists in hospital planning and operation. Con¬ tracts wore finally let to concerns familiar with fireproof hospital construction. Ground was broken May 2, 1920, by the Hon. Merlin Hull, President of the Wisconsin Methodist Hospital Association, then Secretary of State. The cornerstone was laid Sept. 4, 1920, by Bishop Charles Bayard Mitchell, during the annual session of the West Wis¬ consin Conference then being held in Rice Lake.

As this is written (March 24, 1922) the building is approaching completion, and will be ready for occupancy in the early sum¬ mer. It will furnish accommodations for 60 patients. The cost of the completed enterprise will approximate (200,000. The result will be an institution of the highest rank. Hospital authorities have called the site the finest hospital location to be found anywhere. The building is as near perfect as it could be. The equipment is of the very latest type. No expense has been spared. As a result no better hospital can be found anywhere.

In the fall of 1921 a Training School for nurses was opened in connection with the hospital, and will form an Important part of the work of the institution. This will en¬ able the young women of this section who desire to take up nursing to do so near home.

The hospital is known as Lakeside Meth¬ odist Hospital. The business management is under the direction of a board of local business and professional men. It is non¬ sectarian both in control and service. A large amount of free bed work is done. The intention is to furnish the best of care alike to rich and poor. The medical staff is organized and meets regularly for the dis¬ cussion of hospital problems. The staff is now "closed" however, and all reputable physicians may be admitted to practice in the hospital upon complying with the neces¬ sary conditions. In short, every care is being taken to qualify Lakeside Methodist Hospital as an institution equal to the best.

The Carnegie Library had its beginning when the Rice Lake Public Library was organized in 1897, and a one-mill tax levied by the city for its support. The first trus¬ tees were: F. T. Watson (president), James Robbins (secretary), C. H. Blystone (treas¬ urer), Dr. O. M. Sattre, J. E. Horsman. M. P. Barry, W. H. Bundy, and O. H. In¬ gram Jr. The institution opened its doors April 3, 1897, with about 400 volumes. The first librarian was Miss Corinne Howard. In 1898 Mr. Blystone resigned as treas¬ urer, and was succeeded by M. P. Barry - Jan. 1, 1899 the first librarian was suc¬ ceeded by Mrs. James Robbins. She served until April 1, 1913, when she resigned. She Was succeeded by Mildred Dean. Miss Dean served about one year, when she re¬ signed to be married. Odllle Demers was elected In her place, and served for five years. After her resignation, Helen Smith, of Fond du Lac was elected.

At the time of Mrs. Robbins' resigna¬ tion it was said: "The resignation ter¬ minates a service that was largely a work of love, as the salary paid has never been commensurate with the services rendered. During the administration of Mrs. Robbins the library has grown from 800 volumes to nearly 5,008 volumes. Eleven assistants have served about a year each. The only member of the board still serving is Mr. Robbins. In commemoration for her four¬ teen years of unselfish service, it would seem that a life-size portrait of Mrs. Rob¬ bins placed on the library wall would serve as a fitting object lesson to the people, young and old. who patronize the library."

The library was first located in what is now the Barron County Training School, occupying two rooms, each of which was provided with a vault. The first room was used for the bookcase and the librarian's desk, and the other one for a reading room. The vaults were used for store rooms for magazines and the like.

The library was open only on Wednes¬ days and Sundays, afternoon and evening. When Mrs. Robbins took charge, there were about 800 volumes, unclassified, sim¬ ply a miscellaneous collection of books. In March, 1900, Charlotte Noble was ap¬ pointed assistant librarian, serving without pay, but with authority to supervise the reading room. In 1901, after Miss Noble had taken library training at Madison, she offered her services to the library board to classify and catalogue all the books of the library. Mrs. Robbins helped in this work.

In the meantime the vaults had been removed from the library rooms and the doors sold for enough to provide the funds for the necessary work of throwing the two rooms Into one, and painting and tint¬ ing the walls. The reorganisation work

It was Judge James Robbins who laid the plans tor starting the library here, and it was he who attended faithfully to carry¬ ing them out He always acted on the important committees such as committee on book selection. He also aided greatly along financial lines. In fact no one can think of the library without thinking of Mr. and Mrs. Robbins.

In the fall of 1901, Jane Noble, who was acting as secretary of the board, having succeeded Mr. Robbins, offered her resigna¬ tion, and Charlotte Noble resigned her posi¬ tion at the same time, both ladies being about to leave town. In October, 1902, the first paid assistant, Mrs. L. L. Constance, was engaged and served for nearly a year. Others have been the Misses Leo Me- Clench, Beryl Campbell, Ruth Morrison, Louise Kellogg, Ray Mills, Ruth McClel¬ land, Marian Hooey, Margaret Daniels and Emma Frank.

It was then that the board began a cor¬ respondence with the representatives of Andrew Carnegie, with regard to an ap¬ propriation for a library building. A site was obtained from the city council, and Mr. Carnegie granted a donation of 310,000. Cornelia Marvin, then connected with the State Library Association, assisted the local library board greatly in the selection of plans for the new library and made many trips here for that purpose.

In May, 1905, the change was made from the school building to the new Carnegie Library on the corner of Main and Messen¬ ger streets'. The librarian, Mrs. Robbins, assisted by L. L. Constance, and a group of school children, attending to the removal of the books and magazines.

In 1908, the Fortnightly club with some help from the library board finished up the north room in the library basement, and the same year the interior walls of the library were tinted. Since the Fortnightly club enlarged its scope this basement room has been used for its meetings. The city has furnished the south rooms in the base¬ ment for restrooms.

The present members of the board are: Fred Tompkins (mayor), E. C. Hirsch (superintendent of schools), L. P. Bunker (superintendent of the Barron County Training School), Mrs. O. M. Sattre, Mrs. Henry M. Boll and Mrs. Charles Stark.

The leading fraternities of Rice Lake are the Blue Lodge, Chapter, Council and Eastern Star of the Masons; the Lodge, Canton, Encampment and Rebekah degree of the Odd Fellows; the men's and sisters' lodges of the Scandinavian fraternity; the Knights of Columbus and the Foresters; the Grand Army, Relief Corps and Amer¬ ican Legion; the Modern Woodmen and the Royal Neighbors; the United Commercial Travelers; the Beavers, the Woodmen of the World, the Maccabees and the Mystic

Rice Lake Lodge No. 234, F. & A. M., was organized under dispensation dated Nov. 9, 1886. The charter was granted on June 16, 1887. The charter members were: Fred H. Tuttle, M. W.; James Sims, S. W.; Charles A. Gesell, J. W.; William H. Win¬ ter, S. D.; Rufus L. Young, J. D.; Ernest Hartel, treasurer; F. M. Van Bergen, secre¬ tary; John F. Dietz and Charles Nunn, stewards; Ebenezer Bassett, tiler; N. L. Howison.

The first meetings were held in W. H. Phipps building, now the Jewett Drug Co. building. Later the Lodge met in the Eubanks building, now the Rice Lake Laundry building. Next it met in the Fred Field building, now the Golden Rule build¬ ing; next in the First National Bank building.

The Masonic Temple Association was in¬ corporated on July 28, 1916, and capitalized at $7,000. The building committee was Mark Eubanks, F. H. Gardner and C. A. Polland. The present Masonic Temple on Marshal street 'was dedicated with a Past Masters' night, on Jan. 10, 1916. Marshal T. Brekke took his first degree in Masonry with the following past masters in the chairs: Mark Eubanks as W. M.; Ebenezer Bassett as S. W.; Rufus L. Young as J. W.; J. F. Coleman as S. D.; G. O. Stark as J. D.; S. S. Brodt and F. H. Gardner as stewards; M. D. Manson as tiler.

Pokegema Chapter No. 67, R. A. M., was organized under dispensation dated Feb. 15, 1894, and the first meeting was held four days later. N. W. Bailey was the first Ex. High Priest, W. H. Luce the first King, and G. B. Campbell the first Scribe. The char¬ ter was granted Feb. 20, 1895, the charter officers being: C. J. Canning, Ex. High Priest; W. H. Luce, King; and N. W. Bailey, Scribe. The other charter members were: W. W. Bordwell, J. E. Horsman, Charles A. Gessell, G. B. Campbell, Fred J. Otis, E. M. Bartlett, M. P. Barry and George Parr.

Rice Lake Lodge No. 269, I. O. O. F. was instituted May 5, 1877, and received its charter Dec. 7, of that year. A duplicate charter was issued March 5, 1917. The charter members of the lodge were: I. C. Sergeant, Elvin Plxley, F. D. Demars, Henry Sawyer, William H. McDowell and John Hegan.

The living members, who have been members of the Grand Lodge, are: G. C. Soper, T. B. Mltchel, Silas Stultz, Fred Prince, E. N. Bowers, B. F. Prince, C. H. Steltzner, John Lee, Bert Richardson, Wil¬ liam Morris, R. H. Waldorf, O. A. Schoon¬ over, Barney Drook, Henry Lee, L. E. Tra¬ vis, H. R. Buhrow, J. P. Qualy, Robert Smith. T. S. Ketcham, U. S. Lasey, Charles Mattison, N. M. Shoemaker, Robert Phil¬ lips, Chris. Herning, C. A. Hanneman, C. H. Hogan, O. A. Rogatad, J. P. Frion, S. A. Sandberg and L. E. Olsen.

The officers for the term ending June 30, 1921, were: Noble Grand, E. J. Mattison; vice grand, F. B. Davenport; secretary, Chris. Herning; financial secretary, B. F. Prince; treasurer, Chris Steltzner; trustees, H. R. Buhrow, C. A. Hanneman and D. P. Hoag.

The officers for the term ending June 30, 1921, were: Chief patriot, Ralph Stark; high priest, William Prince; senior warden, E J. Mattison, Junior Warden, Eld. Falstad; scribe, Chris. Herning; financier, J. P. Frion; treasurer, C. A. Hanneman; trustees, Chris. Steltzner and H. R. Buhrow.

Wisconsin Canton No. 22, Patriarchs Mili¬ tant, I. O. O. F., Rice Lake, received its war¬ rant, Dec. 21, 1911. The charter members were: E. N. Bowers, J. A. H. Johnson, Henry Lee, Barney Droock, Chris Herning,

J. P. Frion, a member of this Canton, is major of the Second Battalion of the Second Wisconsin Regiment. Lee Patrow is his ad¬ jutant with the rank of captain. Herman P. Buhrow is lieutenant colonel of the same regiment. E. N. Bowers and L. W. Travis have also held the rank of major, and J. P. Qually and J. A. H. Johnson have been cap¬ tains.

Hiawatha Rebekah Lodge No. 75, L O. O. F. was instituted June 8, 1892. The charter members wore: Caroline (Mrs. George) Angel; Ella A. (Mrs. D. P.) Hoag; Leanna R. (Mrs. William W.) Dietz; Frank M. Angel, D. P. Hoag, W. W. Dietz and Henry Steltzner.

The officers for the term ending Dec. 31, 1921, are: Noble grand, Mary (Mrs. Glenn) Hartel; vice grand, Olga (Mrs. William) Prince; recording secretary, Clara (Mrs. Sam. R.) Hanson; finanaial secretary, Lettie (Mrs. Herman) Coats; treasurer, Nancy (Mrs. Jacob) Lemler.

For some years the Odd Fellows occu¬ pied the upper story of the wooden build¬ ing on the southwest corner of Marshall and Main streets. When they sold this building, they purchased the old Courthouse building, on the northwest corner of Main and Messenger streets. This building had been erected in 1874 by Knapp, Stout 4b Co. as a courthouse, and was actually occu¬ pied as such the few months that Barron was the county seat Later it had been used for various purposes. The upper floor was for several years occupied as council chambers and city headquarters, and the lower floor was at one time occupied by the postofflce. The Odd Fellows fitted up the upper floor as a lodge room, and rented the lower floor to B. Droock, confectioner and ice cream manufacturer. In 1914 the building was sold and moved to a location south of the School for the Deaf where it now stands. The Odd Fellows then sold the north part of their land to B. Droock, The Odd Fellows and Mr. Droock then erected, two buildings at the same time, similar in general construction and design, but separated by a fire wall.' The Odd Fellows fitted up the second story of their building for a lodge room, and equipped it with modern facilities for entertainments, banquets and the like. The lower floor was rented for commercial purposes. Mr. Droock occupied the lower floor of his build¬ ing and rented the upper floor for offices. The Odd Fellow block was almost totally destroyed by fire on Feb. 23, 1917, and at the same time Mr. Droock suffered a heavy loss from smoke. A rebuilding committee consisting of B. Droock, B. F. Prince and Louis E. Travis was then appointed. The building was dedicated Feb. 6, 1918. It is practically a duplicate of the former build¬ ing. It is 31 by 112 feet, well equipped in every way. The Droock building is 22 by 112 feet. The lower floor of the Odd Fel¬ low building is occupied by the J. C. Penny Co. store. The basement is occupied by the printing plant of the Rice Lake Times.

M. W. Heller Post No. 166, G. A. R.. was instituted Aug. 1, 1894, by Charles W. Moore and H. J. Dixon, members of the Chetek Post. J. A. Watrous was then the department commander. The post was named from M. W. Heller, the first per¬ manent settler of Rice Lake, and the first veteran of the Civil War to die here. The charter members were: A. 8. Jopp, R. L.

D. W. McClench; officer of the guard, Gott¬ lieb Frion; quartermaster sergeant, W. W. Bordwell. In addition to the twenty-one charter members who are dead, twenty-four who have since been mustered in have died. They are: Frank Bulger, I. C. Ser¬ geant. John Ginder, R. D. Whitier, Nicho¬ las Weins, William Biss, Chris Mossman, A. M. Olds, Jacob Rice, Robert Kruger, J. P. Rynders, Moses Boudry, G. W. Hicks, L. D. Parker, J. C. Livingston, J. H. Coats, J. D. Lent, Elliot Ward, P. H. Swift, Chris Heldstab, W. K. West, C. E. Munger, N. W. Olmstead, Frank Rezarch.

The present members are: R. L. Young, G. C. Soper, Ebenezer Bassett, W. W. Bord¬ well, Joseph Brown and Lewis Wert. Only the first three are able to attend the meet¬ ings. They still gather and talk over old times. While the Post dates back to 1894, the organization is really of much older date. For many years before that, the old soldiers met regularly for the purpose of fostering patriotic sentiment especially among the school children, and reviewing the stirring events in which they had a part. One such meeting was held as early as July 4, 1876, when a grand celebration was held in honor of the Centennial of the Adoption of the Declaration.

The M. W. Heller Corps No. 109, W. R. C., was organized Feb. 18, 1891. The char¬ ter members were: Martha Bailey, Louise Brow, Eliza Deery, Margaret Rice, Emma Whitaker and Mary Young, now deceased; and Abbie McClench, Emma Bunce, Julia Colan, Sarah Small, Belle Washburn, Lottie Abbott, Abbie Freight, Myra Parker, Fannie Sergeant, Carrie Sergeant, Della La Londe, Fannie Munger and Anna Hilliker.

cial gatherings, inculcating patriotic senti¬ ment, and looking after the interests of the soldiers of the Civil, Spanish-American and World Wars.

Federal Labor Union No. 15284, A. F. of L. was organized Sept. 18, 1916, and ad¬ mitted to the American Federation of Labor Sept. 18, 1916. The charter members were: Rodger Drangel, Peter Korbstz, A. F. De¬ mers, Andrew Paulson, Louis Black, Fred Halsler and Thomas Hicksy.

Rice Lake Council No. 332, United Com¬ mercial Travelers, was Instituted June 8, 1906. The charter members were the Messrs. Rapp, Qualy, West, Battin, Morri¬ son, Cresler, Babcock, Burke, Linenfelser, Nilssen, Scott, Johnson, Elwood, Horsman, Dahl, Brown, Hanson and Paradis.

Valhalla Lodge, No. 7, Independent Scan¬ dinavian Workingmen's Association, Rice Lake, was organized Jan. 9, 1897. The char¬ ter officers were: President. John Trondberg; vice president, John Samdahl; secre¬ tary, Louis Sather; financial secretary, Nils Larson; treasurer, John J. Moe; instructor, Ole Sockness; marshal, Fred Loe; inside guard. Peder Peterson (Aas); outside guard, Nils Hanson.