Thursday, August 18, 2022

The Old Red Mill

 


From Bunker Hill Revisited - Volume Four 1901-1910 - by Carl Stanton

"The Old Red Mill"

    June 4, 1909: My attention has been called to a short paragraph in the county papers, all of whom seem to be at a loss to locate the "old red mill", which was known for years as the "red mill" and, by the way, the red paint, of two coats, placed on the outside woodwork of the building in August of 1866, at which time, I owned a third interest in that property, including 20 acres of land, about a dozen houses and one large cooper shop.

    The original mill building was constructed by P.C. Huggins and Charles Parmenter, about 1850, as a flour mill.  Later on, an addition was built to the north side and fitted up with cotton mill machinery, where batting and cotton goods were made.  This was continued until the Civil War, which made cotton scarce and prices so high it was discontinued; and the machinery, after being idle for four or five years, was sold.

    The old red mill was situated on the line of what is now the Big Four Railroad, about one mile northeast of Bunker Hill (this area is about where Mansholt Road and the railroad tracks crossed).  Later, it was converted into a cheese factory and creamery, where wagon loads of good cheese was brought to this city and sold to our merchants.  Finally, this failed as a paying business and the old mill fell into disuse, was torn down, and sold for lumber.

    For many years, the old red mill was the landmark of that locality.  I was a partner in the mill from August 1866 until I sold to John Richards, and A.G. Davis of Carlinville.


...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

--Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, August 18, 2022.

Stanton, Carl L. . "Bunker Hill News 1909." In Bunker Hill Revisited, Volume Four, 1901-1910, p. 37. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 2003. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

Thursday, August 11, 2022

The Bunker Hill Railroad Accident of 1857

 

    Pictured: Hotel and Big Four Railroad Station in Bunker Hill IL
 

From the Missouri Democrat, August 17, 1857

    Accident on the Terre Haute, Alton and St. Louis Railroad

    On Saturday evening, about eight o'clock, as the westward bound passenger train on the Terre Haute, Alton, and St. Louis railroad had reached a point about one mile from Bunker Hill, IL, the locomotive broke through a bridge, which was constructed over a small creek or ravine.  The baggage and express cars were, at the same time, precipitated beyond the engine and down a steep embankment.

    The car next to the emigrant car, containing a number of ladies and gentlemen, fell in after the engine and was turned up on its forward end.  At the time of the accident, a hard thunderstorm was prevailing, which added to the terror of the occasion.  Another thing which contributed to the dismay of the passengers was the communication of fire to a portion of the train by the explosion of the engine.  The flames, notwithstanding the rain, were spreading rapidly, but by the exertion of the passengers were subdued.

    Edward Warden, fireman, was instantly killed.  Mr. Wilcox, engineer was badly hurt and burned.  The baggage master of the train, whose name we were unable to obtain, and B. Deming, a brakeman, were hurt, but not seriously.

    As if the heavens had conspired to add terror and death to the scene, a little girl, daughter of Mr. Templer, was struck by lightning just after the explosion of the engine took place, and was instantly killed.

    Edward Warden died on August 16, 1857, and is buried in the Bunker Hill Cemetery.

...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

--Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, July 8, 2021, August 11, 2022.  

Thursday, August 4, 2022

The Bunker Hill Hard Road Celebration

Pictured: Map showing the First Hard Road through Bunker Hill
 

Read our earlier Blog Posting about the First Bunker Hill Hard Road at https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2017/04/the-hard-road-end-of-old-dirt-roads.html


From the Edwardsville Intelligencer, Sept 8, 1928

Bunker Hill Road Celebration Fixed for Oct. 3

    Big Chicken Dinner at 60 cents, Street Dance and Band Concert are some of the events arranged for Community Road Observance.

    Opening of the Edwardsville-Bunker Hill Road will be celebrated on Wednesday afternoon and evening, October 3, it was announced today after a conference of an Edwardsville committee with several residents of Bunker Hill last night.  Those from Bunker Hill came here to learn what Edwardsville is doing to make arrangements at Bunker Hill complete.

    In announcing several committees this morning to work out the details in Edwardsville, S.D. Wheeler, President of the Chamber of Commerce predicted that 500 will go to Bunker Hill that day.  He believed a majority will partake of a chicken dinner.

    Residents of Bunker Hill and farmers along the road will donate chicken and other food for the big chicken dinner, making it possible for the ladies to serve at 60 cents a plate.  Funds realized from the dinner will be used to promote civic affairs at Bunker Hill.

    Residents of Gillespie, Dorchester, Benld, and Sawyerville will be invited to the gathering.  The road between Bunker Hill and Gillespie will be finished in another few weeks.  The new pavement along the Springfield road extends from Edwardsville to a point near Gillespie with connection at each end with Route 4.

    Mrs. F.H. Postlewaite, President of the Bunker Hill Civic League was one in the delegation here last night.  She is an enthusiastic worker for the gathering and will have charge of the dinner.

    During her remarks last night, she said Bunker Hill will endeavor to promote ample entertainment for the afternoon and evening.  Beside the chicken dinner that will be ready during the afternoon, sandwiches and other refreshments will be served until well into the night.  A street dance will be arranged for the evening.  The platform will be guilt on the pavement.

     Edwardsville will have a part in providing entertainment.  The Edwardsville Municipal Band of 34 pieces will be taken to Bunker Hill.  Business manager Frank Fink told the meeting last night that the musicians will begin making arrangements shortly.

Pictured: North Washington Street before the 1920's prior to the Hard Road

    Residents of Bunker Hill will have most of the work to plan while arrangements are being made.  Some months ago, residents of Bunker Hill and other cities farther to the north came here in large numbers to urge the division of highways to rush the road.  The public hearing was followed with much work of Senator A.S. Cuthbertson of Bunker Hill and State Senator N.G. Flagg to have the road built.

    Those who came here form Bunker Hill for the conference were Rev. C.J. Rieves, Mayor, Mrs. F.H. Postlewaite, James Jencks, J.H. Neil, Elmer Goff, and Ralph Hayes.


...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

--Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, August 4, 2022. 

   

Thursday, July 21, 2022

The Bunker Hill Song

 

Pictured: Rev. Nelson D. Sweeny - Bunker Hill Song Author
Nelson Sweeny was born in 1868 and died in 1948.  For a time he was Minister at the Bunker Hill Methodist Church.  He was also an author.



You can download the music sheet at the following link: Bunker Hill Song

Verse 1:
We have a splendid city with a good old fashioned name, -
A name which stirs the loyal heart with patriotic flame. -
Old Glory floats above the stand to music by our Legion Band, -
While Lincoln's statue lifts his hand, proclaiming freedom through the land. -
Our shady streets and pretty homes convince the visitor who comes,
A home in this fair city is the thing he'd like to claim. -

Verse 2:
Those stylish suits from Sessel's make you look like millionaires, -
Jacoby furnishes our homes with rugs and easy chairs, -
Gosch fits the feet with shoes so neat, Suedel has goods that can't be beat. -
Emery and Dillard's wares are sweet, Jim Highfill feeds us classy meat. -
First National's a trusty bank,
No wonder Bunker Hill takes rank,
Way up in G for that is the truth, everyone declares. -

Verse 3:
Ed Bauser's coal will warm you, so you will never get "cold feet". -
Our Creamery makes butter that we all delight to eat. -
Welch makes the groc'ry bus'ness spin, Klinefetters bargains bring them in. -
Jacobi's hardware "gets your tin", Gerdt's millinery all does win. -
Van Horn and Best, the place to treat,
Take bitter pills or sundaes sweet,
Come on lets go we have a great old town that can't be beat.

CHORUS
Bunker Hill, in good old Illinois, -
Hear the shouts of happy girls and boys. -
City of homes, churches and schools,
Sorrows depart and happiness rules.
Hooray! For the best old town in the U.S.A.
I'd like to live here forever and a day
If you want to be jolly and see a good show,
Go to the Opera House with William Fahrenkrog.
If rest and quiet is the lot you would choose,
Sit in your big arm chair and read the Gazette News, Bunker Gazette News.

Copyright 1923 by Nelson D. Sweeny, Bunker Hill, Illinois




...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

--Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, December 27, 2012, July 21, 2022

Thursday, July 14, 2022

The Bunker Hill History Museum Grand Opening

 



Pictured: The present day Bunker Hill Historical Museum on 114 East Warren Street
Hours for the Museum are:
Saturday, 10:00 A.M. until Noon

For visits anytime, Please call our Museum President, Marty Lane at 618-585-4718. 

See our earlier blog posting about the Grand Opening of the Bunker Hill Historical Museum at https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2020/03/bunker-hill-preserves-past-with-new.html


From the Gazette-News: October 14, 1999
Article by the late Eldon Duelm

    The Bunker Hill Historical Society Museum opened for the first time Saturday, October 9, 1999.
    
    Over 190 guests stopped in to see the new museum on its first day open.  More than 20 new members were added as charter members.
    
    The museum sign has been installed over the doorway area and displays of memorabilia were completed and labeled.  Members worked in the museum on Friday to complete the final touches for opening on Saturday.

    
Pictured: Members of the Bunker Hill Historical Society are surrounded by memoralia at the new museum.  Members include front row: Marian Whitfield, curator; Betty Zarges, Carolyn Scroggins, Thelma Roberts, treasurer.  Back row: Bonnie Hopkins, secretary; Eldon Duelm, president, Mary Lawton and Carl Stanton. --Photo credit: For the Telegraph, Keith Wedoe

    Special thanks need to be given to the picture committee, Carolyn Scroggins, Carl Stanton, and Marvin Rensing for their extensive time and efforts put into collecting, copying, and displaying the many historical pictures.  Thanks also go to Chub Howald, Betty Zarges, Marian Whitfield, Bonnie Hopkins, Willis Whitfield, Lester Lawton, Mary Lawton, Chuck Lawton, Marie Kampwerth, Charlie Dey, Doug Dey, Malvern Allen, Thelma Roberts, and everyone else for the work each one put into the effort of planning, organizing, and putting together the museum.

    Others from the community whose efforts are also appreciated are the generous donation by AARP, City of Bunker Hill for providing the building, Dean Landreth for donating display cases, Bill Turney Heating and Cooling for repairing the air conditioner, and everyone else who helped get the museum ready, especially those who donated or loaned display items and the community for purchasing memberships and giving their support.

Pictured. Bunker Hill Historical Society Board Members - June 2010
Left to right are board members of the Bunker Hill Historical Society: Liz Wieseman, Bonna Hopkins, Carolyn Scroggins, Betty Zarges, Carlos Arzuagas, Carole Bierbaum, Mary Lawton, and President Marty Lane.  Not pictured is Bill Wilkinson. 


Pictured: Various historical memorabilia on display at the Museum 






...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories here at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

--Cite this story: Nolan, Donna J. "Bunker Hill Preserves Past with New Museum." Alton Telegraph, October 1999
    The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, June 10, 2010, July 14, 2022. 

    Thursday, July 7, 2022

    Bunker Hill's First 4th of July Celebration

     

    Pictured: The Bunker Hill Band (circa 1905).  Left to right (Back row): Henry Cardell, Honas Fahrenkrog, Sam Lee, Pet Neil, Charles Hendricks, William Cardell, Joe Lee, Lute Jansen;
    (Front Row): L. Pates, W. Wood, Albert Goodwin, Lemuel B. Smith.
         

        Reprint of our earlier blog posting at https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2020/07/the-first-bunker-hill-woodburn-july-4th.html

        In 1839, the whole community turned out, some 60 people in all, for the town's first 4th of July celebration.  A liberty pole (flag pole) was raised, the Declaration of Independence was read, toasts were made, and much good food eaten.  This celebration took place on the ground in the area now occupied by United Community Bank.  On that same holiday in 1842, over 400 people participated in the celebration and listened to the Upper Alton Band.  On July 4th, 1844, 350 citizens, headed by the Bunker Hill Band, went to Woodburn, and there met the Alton Band.

    Pictured: The Bunker Hill Drum Corps around 1900 at the Hotel (probably Monument House). Note McKinley's Picture at left.

        A paper 111 years old, dated June 16, 1840, was found by carpenters when Dr. Hess remodeled his office in 1951, giving an account of the upcoming July 4th celebration.  The early settlers were justly proud of their independence and in writing agreed to contribute money and food stuffs to provide the community with a dinner.  

    Pictured: Bunker Hill - Woodburn July 4 Celebration Letter dated 1840 found in Dr. Hess's Office during remodeling in 1951.


        The Proclamation reads: We, the citizens of Bunker Hill and vicinity, feeling desirous to join our friends of Woodburn in the celebration of the birthday of our national independence, do cordially, freely, and willing, contribute such sums or articles as are attached to each of our respective names, for the purpose of providing a dinner suitable for the occasion:

    • James Phillips, $1.00
    •  Francis W. Burham, $1.00
    • Alexander Nys, .50
    • C. Washburn, .50
    • John C. ?
    • Luke Knowlton, $1.00
    • H.V. Hopper, $1.50
    • Samuel B. ?, $1.00
    • ? Squires, $1.00
    • Moses True, $3.00
    • Larkin Stark, eight dozen eggs, eight pounds of butter, 10 loaves of bread, and $1.75
    • James Wood, one pig, $1.00
    • Franklin Vaughn, one pig, $1.00
    • Joseph Burton, cake, six chickens, $1.00
    • Edward Burton, $1.00
    • J.W. Richards, one pig, six chickens, $2.00
    • Wm. Squires, six pounds of butter, bread, $1.50
    • James Hamilton, six pies, five loaves bread, two punds of butter, cake, $1.50
    • A. Chruch, provisins, $1.00
    • Solomon Davis, $2.00
    • Ebenezer Howell, $2.00
    • G. Parmenter, $1.00
    • A.W. Cummings, $1.00
        Most of the able bodied citizens marched to Woodburn to hear a fine oration by Mr. Lincoln (not Abraham).  There was said to be a crowd of 600 to 700 people in attendance.  Other speakers were John Logan and D.D. Davis of Alton.  

    ...Read this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, July 9, 2020, July 7, 2022.

    Thursday, June 30, 2022

    A Civil War Soldier's Letter to Home

    Pictured: Company F, 7th Illinois Infantry on Point Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga, TN, June 17, 1864
     

    Read our earlier blog posting of Herman Smolinkski's letter  at https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2014/12/company-f-7th-illinois-infantry.html

        From the Museum President, Marty Lane: In March of 2011, I received a letter from Mrs. Glenna Irwin of Fort Myers, FL.  She had a letter written by her great-grandfather, Herman Schmolinski, while he was serving in the Civil War.  She asked if I could get it translated from German for her.  I was volunteering at the Edwardsville Archival Library and had met a woman that was familiar with another man in Highland that did German translation.  I sent the letter to Highland and this is the translation.

    Fort Holt, January 20, 1860

    My dearest most beloved wife,

        I hope that this letter will find you in the best of spirits.  My dear and only Tarina, it is with great joy that I grab the pen so I can send you a few words of encouragement to set your mind at ease.  I'm sure you must have worried a lot in the last few weeks.

        My dear, dear Tarina, we have arrived safe and sound at our new encampment.  We had been on the march for six days where things were not under the best conditions.  During the first few days it was pretty cold, then it started to rain, which did not do much for our progress.  Despite it all, we are here now all hale and hearty.  We arrived here at Fort Hold on Sunday the 19th of January in the afternoon at 3 o'clock.  I believe that is enough to put your mind at ease, my dear wife.  You can be at ease because your dear Herman is well taken care of.

        My dear Tarina, be so good and tell me all you can of the wedding that happened recently.  You are also telling me that it may not be safe to leave our money with Mr. Buckmann.  You think he owes too much money.  If that is what you think, leave everything the way it is, but it would be nice if we could leave it with a trusted person.

        You think my dearest beloved wife that it would be best for me to come home on furlough so that we would be able to settle everything.  O my hear Tarina, there is nothing I would rather do than that, but it is impossible to get leave from here.  No one can.  Right now the possibility of furlough are not good at all.  Hopefully things will improve and will be over soon.

        I will close with this.  Say hello to all we know, also George Lubke and his wife.  Be well my dearest beloved Tarina, 'til we see each other again.  I remain your faithful, loving husband  in life as well as death.

    H. Schmolinski

    H. Schmolinski, Co. F, 7th Reg III Volunteer, Fort Holt Kentucky.

        Mrs. Irwin's grandparents were Herman and Bertha (Schmolinski) Oldenettle.  Their daughter Marie was Mrs. Irwin's mother.


    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, December 18, 2014, June 30, 2022.

    Thursday, June 23, 2022

    The Huber Opera House

     

    Pictured: The Huber Opera House, later renamed to Bunker Hill Opera House by William Fahrenkrog.

        Read our earlier blog about The Old Huber Opera House at https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2015/02/the-old-huber-opera-house.html

        In 1882, Anton Huber erected a two-story brick business with a basement and hall, this later was known as the Huber Opera House.  The building is located on the southeast corner of Washington and Warren Streets and is 81 feet by 71 feet.  The first floor is occupied by a grocery store 32 by 48 feet facing north, and the remainder of the store 48 by 48 feet is occupied by a dry goods store, and also a clothing, boot, shoe, hat, and cap store.  Behind this is a large warehouse room 20 by 50 feet.

        Anton Huber was born in Baden Germany in 1826.  At the age of 28, he started for America.  He reached New Orleans, LA in 1854.  He stayed in New Orleans for three months to secure enough money to take him up to St. Louis, MO.  In 1865, he sold his grocery store in St. Louis and came to Prairietown and bought the stock of Conrad Cramer, a general merchant of that place.  He was very successful and when his financial resources were increased, he came to Bunker Hill where he invested his capital.

    Pictured: Huber Opera House Advertisement

        As early as 1891, the Bunker Hill graduation exercises were held in the Huber Opera House and continued on through the 1930's.

        In 1921, William Fahrenkrog bought the Huber Opera House and renamed it the Bunker Hill Opera House.  It was remodeled and used as a movie theater, being called the Lincoln Theater.  

    Pictured:  Lincoln Theater Movie Announcements


        Upstairs was a gymnasium which was called Lincoln Hall.  Helen (Fahrenkrog) Teakert played the piano for the Lincoln Theater.  Other business in the Opera House were a drug store, pool hall, barber shop, and jewelry store.

        The 1948 tornado blew the second story off.  Later, this building was occupied by the Behrens Drug store.

    Pictured: The Huber Opera House Building (Behren's Drug Store) 1948 tornado damage


    Pictured: The Huber Opera House Building (Behren's Drug Store) after the 1948 tornado


    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, June 23, 2022.

    Wednesday, June 15, 2022

    The Earliest Inhabitants of Wolf Ridge, Now Bunker Hill

     

    Pictured: Artist Sketch of Wolf Ridge, Now Bunker Hill

    Reprint of our December 6, 2012 blog posting at https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2015/04/wolf-ridge-to-bunker-hill.html

    Wolf Ridge to Bunker Hill

        If you had been one of these early settlers back in 1835-1836, the landscape would be very different.  You could stand at the top of the "hill" between what is now the flagpole and the Lincoln Statue, look in any direction and see nothing but wide open prairie.  There might have been two or three buildings in the town, but the only trees would be in the distance along the creeks.

        

    Pictured: Artist Sketch of the Springs, the Indian Watering Place, now Millville

        The site of the town of Bunker Hill was once known to the early settlers of Macoupin County as "Wolf Ridge".  It was thus named because wolves lived in the area.  Some of their dens were located in the vicinity where the United Community Bank is today.

        The choice of the name, Bunker Hill, was due to the fact that there is a hill here somewhat like that upon which the famous battle of the Revolution was fought and because those who gave the name came from that area of Massachusetts.

        

    Pictured: The Bunker Hill Historical Marker located at Mae Whitaker Park

        The earlier inhabitants of the present-day Bunker Hill were the Peoria, Kickapoo, and Winnebago Indians, who established an encampment near North Washington Street and West Morgan Street.  On their wandering north and south, they would stop here at a large spring in the Millville area.  With the advent of the white settlers, the Indians disappeared and they were last seen in the area in the year 1826.

        In May 2010, a Historical Marker was placed and dedicated at the entrance to the Mae Whitaker Park just North of town on Rt. 159.  The marker inscription reads:

    Bunker Hill Indian Trail

        During the Historical period, the earliest inhabitants of the Present-day Community of Bunker Hill were the Peoria, Kickapoo, and Winnebago Indians who established an encampment near North Washington and West Morgan Streets.  Another Native American site was Northeast of Bunker Hill near the Millville School area.

        From Fort Russell in Madison County to the old watering place at the head of Paddock's Creek Northeast of town, the eighteen mile trail ran in a generally straight course through the prairie along the dividing ridge between the waters and timbers of Paddock's Creek on the East, and Indian Creek on the West.

        Native Americans on their Northern and Southern migrations were accustomed to stopping here near a large spring for water.  Soon after the territory opened to American settlement, the indigenous populations were forced across the Mississippi River.  The last Native American encampment in Bunker Hill was recorded in 1826, when five wigwams, which stood at the head of Wood River, were taken down and removed to a site further West. 

    --Sponsored by the Bunker Hill Historical Society and the Illinois State Historical Society.

    May 2010

             

    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, December 6, 2012, June 15, 2022.

    Redford, Carol, and Betty Triplett. "Bunker Hill History." In Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area, p. 5. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 1993. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

    Thursday, June 9, 2022

    History of the Bunker Hill Cemetery

         

    Pictured: 1893 Map of Cemeteries around Bunker Hill

        The Bunker Hill Cemetery is located on East Warren Street three blocks from the intersection of Route 112 (now 159).  It is one of the oldest cemeteries in Macoupin County.

        This cemetery was first laid out by Moses True who donated a small plot of ground in 1840.  The cemetery is divided into three additions.  The first addition is on the north side of the creek that runs through the land and is in Section 23.  The second addition is in Section 24 and is on the south side of the creek.  The third addition is in Section 23.  In the north east corner of the first addition is a Potters Burial Ground.

        On June 13, 1852 citizens of Bunker Hill assembled for the purpose of organizing an association to purchase or hold in trust lands for a burying ground.  On June 16, 1852, a second meeting was held.  An election of officers was in order which resulted in electing the following: E. Howell, Chairman, I.A. Pettingill, Secretary, I.A. Delano, Treasurer, C.D. March, Trustee, I.A. Pettingill, Trustee, and J. Pierson, Trustee.

    Pictured: Moses True - Bunker Hill's Co-Founder

      On July 21, 1853 Moses True deeded 3.15 acres of land to the Bunker Hill Cemetery Association.  In October 1867, the first addition was made to the Bunker Hill Cemetery by Noah H. Flanigan.  In November 1899, a third addition was made to the Bunker Hill Cemetery by Judeth McPherson.

        In 1909, the old rail fence was taken down and replaced by an iron fence which extends across the north side of the cemetery.

        

    Pictured: The Soldiers Monument in Bunker Hill Cemetery (pre-1938 tornado)

        There are many veterans buried in the cemetery from all of the wars.  There are two Confederate veterans and five black veterans from the Civil War.

        The oldest grave in the cemetery is that of Mrs. William H. Smith, sister of Moses True, who died in 1840 in St  Louis, Mo.

    ...Read this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, June 9, 2022.

    Redford, Carol, and Betty Triplett. "Bunker Hill History." In Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area, p. 124. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 1993. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

    Thursday, June 2, 2022

    Bunker Hill's Memorial Flagpole

     

    Pictured: Bunker Hill's Memorial Flagpole

    Gazette-News: February 10, 1955

        The Legion committee in charge of erecting a Memorial Flagpole on the main street announced this week that htey [sic] are short of the required amount to complete the job by $261.91.

        The bids for the job are all in and a contractor for the erection of it was awarded to Joe Briskovich on a bid of $349.00.  Further cost will include $15.00 for an 8 x 12 flag, $597.00 for the flagpole, $75.00 for a bronze plaque, and $60.00 for freight.  Total contributions to date are $879.09.

        The flagpole itself will be a 35 foot tapered aluminum job with equipoise tilting unit.  A 24" wingspan gold leaf eagle atop the pole and a copper weather-vane.  There will be an aluminum ball bearing revolving truck for the flag.


    Pictured: Bunker Hill's Memorial Flagpole

        This is a final appeal for funds by the committee.  Anyone who still has not donated and wishes to may still do so, anyone who cares to donate more than he already has may still do so.  The memorial will be one the city can be proud of.  It will be dedicated to those who served their country in all wars and to those who gave the supreme sacrifice.  Bunker Hill has its full share of both and can be well proud of both.

    Pictured: Present day Bunker Hill Memorial Flagpole

    Gazette-News: June 2, 1955

        Workman finished the job of installing the Memorial Flagpole last Thursday afternoon and the flag was flying from the pole on Friday.  Bill Wise, chairman of the committee, informs us that donations are still needed in spite of a total of $1,003.09 received.

    The bronze plaques reads:

     IN MEMORY of those who served our country.

    Erected in 1955.

    ...Read this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, June 2, 2022.

    Monday, May 30, 2022

    Memorial Day - Let Us Pause to Remember


    Pictured: the Bunker Hill American Legion participated in Taps Across America 2022 by playing Taps at the American flag in the middle of town at 3:00 on the afternoon of Mon., May 30 - the National Moment of Remembrance.* 


    From Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area

    The Memorial Day Committee of the Union Veteran Union has arranged the following program for May 30th.  Soldiers meet at 1 'o clock p.m. at Huggins block and march to Huber's Opera House at 1:30 o' clock.  

    The program at the hall is as follows: Music, Bunker Hill Cornet Band; Prayer, Rev. J.V. Hopper; Remarks, Pres. Geo. McPherson; Music, Woodburn Glee Club; Address, Hon. Benson Wood, Music, Woodburn Glee Club, Comrades and Band will then march to Cemetery for the decoration of the graves, after which they will return to Monument, where assemblage will sing "My Country 'Tis of Thee" after which Rev. C.B. Riggs will pronounce the benediction.

    The business meeting will take place at the secretary's office.  The committee on decoration requests the assistance of Ida and Alice Hetzler, Daisy and Bertha Hayes, Mary and Virgie Hedley, Irene Williams, Minnie and Lillie Brandenberger, Cora and Jess Hill, Annie Wendt, Minnie and Lillie Lee, Amelia and Myra Larmer, Mary and Effie Neil, Minnie and Nellie McPherson, Cora James, Josie McPherson, Lucy and Belle Cross, Josie Hanson, Lulu Wiegand, Annie Kardell, Bertha Schmolinskie, Edna and Nannie Hayes, Mary Sutton, Minnie Dable, Lizzie Dowitt, Cleda Wood, Minnie Smith, and all other daughter and sons of the solders.

    They are requested to meet at the basement of the Congregational Church on Thursday May 29, at 10 o' clock a.m. to make wreaths, etc.  They are also requested to join with the soldiers on May 30th and march to the cemetery and assist in decoration of the graves.  Badges will be furnished, to those not already supplied by the committee, E.W. Hill, Thomas Larmer and John Brandenburger.

    --Cite this Story: Redford, Carol, and Betty Triplett. "Bunker Hill History." In Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area, p. 64. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 1993. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

    *Photo credit: Bunker Hill Gazette-News, June 2, 2022.

    Thursday, May 26, 2022

    Lawrence Gosch Sells Gazette-News to Carl Stanton, May 1964

    Pictured: Bunker Hill Gazette-News 

    April 30, 1964: The Bunker Hill Gazette-News has been sold to Carl L. Stanton of Roxana, IL effective May 1.  Announcement of the sale was made jointly by Stanton and Lawrence Gosch, present editor and publisher.  Stanton has been in Bunker Hill the past week going through the operation with Gosch.

        Gosch came to work at the Gazette-News in 1948 when Arthur Strang was publisher.  He was named editor in July, 1953 succeeding Jim Herda.  He purchased the newspaper and became editor and publisher in July 1954.

        Arthur Strang came to Bunker Hill in 1939, purchasing the Gazette-News from Harold Gerlach.




    From Relections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area

        The Union Gazette first rolled off the presses on January 10, 1866, with A.W. Edwards as publisher.  Some 300 issues were printed, and circulation climbed to 1,000 by the end of the year.

        Edwards sold the publication in 1867 to Dr. A.R. Sawyer and F.Y. Hedley.  Sawyer died the following year.  Hedley changed the name to The Bunker Hill Gazette in 1871.

        W.S. Silence became the publisher, with Hedley remaining as editor, in 1879, at which time the paper was leased for a short time before returning to Hedley's editorship.

        The paper became the Gazette-News in 1905 under the association of Phil C. Hansen and W.B. Powell.  At this time two competing newspapers were combined, The Bunker Hill News and the Gazette.

        Other names of leadership throughout the years included Harold Gerlach, Arthur and Frieda Strang, and Lawrence Gosch.

        In 1964, the paper was purchased by Carl Stanton, who remained publisher/editor until 1987, at which time it was sold to John Galer, a Hillsboro, Illinois publisher.

        The Gazette-News is one of five news and advertising media now being published under the name of Bunker Hill Publications.  The other publications are The Advertiser, the Southwestern Journal News, and the Southwestern Shopper at Brighton, and the Madison County Chronicle at Worden.  --Submitted by the Gazette-News.

    ...Read this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, May 26, 2022.

    Redford, Carol, and Betty Triplett. "Bunker Hill History." In Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area, p. 131. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 1993. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

    Wednesday, May 18, 2022

    W.B. Powell Tells of Coming to Bunker Hill, Buying Paper

    Pictured: Bunker Hill Gazette-News on NW corner of E. Warren and N. Pine St.
    Was the former Chas. Folkerts Grocery Store  

        In the September 13, 1940 issue of the Gazette news, the 75th anniversary issue, a letter from W.B. Powell tells about the beginning of the Gazette news.  Mr. Powell, former editor of the paper, then the Bunker Hill News, is the man responsible for merging that paper with the rival Gazette.

        "One bright Sunday, sometime in 1903 or 1904," Mr. Powell began, "I went to Bunker Hill on an excursion that ran out of St. Louis.  I bought some of Louie Bartels' peanut candy.  If it hadn't been for that candy, Bunker Hill would never have had the distinction of my presence."

        "I resigned from the managership of Nugents' mail order department, a St. Louis concern doing a two million dollar a year business, and with a few manipulations with a newspaper broker, with offices in Litchfield, I found myself owner of the Bunker Hill News, located in a two-story brick building back of Sessel's Store, and over Barth's Harness Shop."

        From the building, Mr. Powell could smell Louis Bartels' candy cooking, but there was little else to recommend the plant he had purchased sight unseen.

        "The presses and make up stones were in the rear of the loft and the type cases in front and between the two there was space for a basketball court."

        The paper also had 125 subscribers and a broken job press.  Full page ads were sold for $5 an issue.  Mr. Powell bought new equipment, rented another building, hired a staff, and two weeks later published an issue of the Bunker Hill News.

        Within a few weeks, Mr. Powell bought out his competitor, the Gazette for $1,000.  This was the beginning of the Bunker Hill Gazette-News.

        From 100 subscribers, the number rose to 1,600.  Mr. Powell bought the Dorchester Hustler and merged it with the Gazette-News.

        It wasn't all quite that smooth going.  Once, as a result of a religious war in Bunker Hill, women cancelled their subscriptions and made the husbands cancel their advertising.  However, Powell's faithful friends, the German dairymaen of the area, ordered two subscriptions for every one that was cancelled and forced out of business, a man who cancelled his advertisement, the whole thing blew over and the Gazette-news came out on top.

    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, May 19, 2022.  

    Thursday, May 12, 2022

    Gazette has Roots in Staunton and Gillespie

    Pictured: Bunker Hill Gazette-News on SW corner of N. Washington and W. Fayette St.

        The Staunton Banner first appeared March 8, 1858, owned and edited by Parsons Percy, who bought the office from Monroe County.  He continued publication until 1860 when it was purchased and removed to Gillespie by A.W. Edwards, and in November of 1860 the first issued appeared in Gillespie as the Union and Gazette.  This paper continued under Edwards until 1863 when Edwards enlisted in the Union Army.  The publication continued for sometime afterwards by Alonzo James, but when he enlisted, the publication was suspended.

        The first Newspaper printed in Bunker Hill was the Bunker Hill Journal, five column paper with E.J. Bronson as editor and publisher.  The first issue was December 8, 1859 and the last in May 1860.

        When Edwards returned from the war in 1865, he moved the printing office from Gillespie to Bunker Hill, and resumed the publication as the Union-Gazette, with the first issue being published January 19, 1866.

    Edwards continued publication until January 31, 1867 when he sold to Dr. A.R. Sawyer and F.Y. Hedley.  Dr. Sawyer died in May 1867.  In 1871, the name of the paper was changed with the word Union dropping out.

        Hedley continued as editor and proprietor until January 1, 1878, when W.S. Silence became editor.  This arrangement continued until January 24, 1879 when it was leased to Mr. Said and Mr. Poorran of Charleston, who published until July 1879.  At that time, Hedley, then the postmaster, resumed the editorship.

    ...Read this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, May 12, 2022.

    Thursday, May 5, 2022

    The "Not So Warm" Welcome of President Andrew Johnson

    Pictured: Big Four Depot
     

    A reprint of our blog from Oct., 9, 2014... https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2014/10/president-andrew-johnson-hooted-during.html

    From the Bunker Hill Union Gazette September 14, 1866

    President Andrew Johnson Hooted During Train Stop in Bunker Hill

        Quite a large collection of people were at the depot on the arrival of the special train at 9:40 on Monday morning.  Bunker Hill, true to her instincts and past record, offered no insult to President Johnson and only showing their abhorrence of him by their prolonged cheers for General Grant and Admiral Farragut (with Lincoln's assassination, Vice President Andrew Johnson became President).

        The President of the United States, Andrew Johnson, was introduced by John Hogan; three cheers were given which he acknowledge [Sic] by taking off his hat and was about to leave with us the Constitution and the Stars and Stripes, when a gentleman proposed three cheers for General Grant, three cheers for Admiral Farragut, and three cheers for the Congress.  President Johnson again attempted to speak, but the cries for Grant compelled him to forgo.

    Mr. Hogan proposed three cheers for the Thirty-Six States, which were given and then someone fired a pistol in the crowd, which disturbed the nerves of the party.  The train moved off and, as far as the eye could reach, the humble individual with hat in hand was bowing to the right and left, poor President Johnson.  We sympathize with Grant and Farragut in their forced company.

    Pictured: The Big Four Depot (circa 1939)


    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, May 5, 2022.  

    Redford, Carol, and Betty Triplett. "Bunker Hill History." In Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area, p. 35. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 1993. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

    Thursday, April 28, 2022

    National Defense Class in Electricity Wires Oldest House in Community

     

    Pictured is the Joe Jarden Home

    From the Bunker Hill Gazette News: February 20, 1941

         The first unit of the National Defense Training Program offered in Farm Mechanics Shop at the local high school completed an eight week course this week with the wiring of a barn and complete layout of out buildings for Frank Gerdes, and the wiring and installation of fixtures in the Al Goodwin farm house.

        According to Edward J. Barnes, instructor, the class gained some valuable experience through difficult wiring in the Al Goodwin Home;  the back part of which was a Drover Hotel on the trail between St. Louis and Springfield.  No one knows what year the hotel was built, however, Goodwin can trace it back to 1834, and it was not a new building at that time.  The part of the dwelling which was the old hotel is of log construction, with the walls packed with mud, bound together by chopped prairie grass and hickory sticks.

        As related to the class by Mr. Goodwin, there are many pioneer stories connected with the old hotel.  Mr. Goodwin has in his possession a tax receipt amounting to forty cents which was the annual property tax on the old hotel and accompanying 160 acre farm.  Taxes at that time were paid in Edwardsville.

        Members of the class wiring the historic building were Oscar Boettger, Melvin Buhs, Harold Brueggeman, Stanley Dana, Victor Dubbelde, Albert Fahrenkrog, Harvey Howerton, Ralph Huette, Alfred Jacobi, Daniel Mancini, Kenneth Mansholt, Arnold Oldenettle, Elmer Oldenettle, Chester Rull, and Leland Scroggins.

        This property was owned by Lillian Goodwin Jarden and is the home of her son, Joe.

    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, April 28, 2022.  

    Redford, Carol, and Betty Triplett. "Bunker Hill History." In Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area, 50. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 1993. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

    Stanton, Carl L. . "Bunker Hill News 1941." In Bunker Hill Revisited, Volume Seven, 1941-1948, p. 2. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 2007. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.


    Thursday, April 21, 2022

    Bunker Hill Memorial Dedication Ceremony to Truesdale, MO Founder

     

    Pictured is the headstone of William Truesdale in the Bunker Hill Cemetery

    From the Bunker Hill Gazette:

    Truesdale, MO Founder Buried in Bunker Hill     

         On Saturday, April 9, 2022 in the Bunker Hill Cemetery, a memorial headstone was dedicated to honor William Truesdale. 

        Mr. Truesdale was born in Chautauqua County New York on January 9, 1815.  At the age of 12, he was working as an indentured merchant in Erie, PA.  In 1849, he contracted with the Panama Railroad Company to build a railroad across the Isthmus of Panama.

         In 1851, Mr. Truesdale, now married and with a growing family, headed west.  He contracted to build a railroad from Sandoval, IL to St. Louis, MO.  During his years working for the railroad in Missouri, he settled his family in Warren County, MO.  He purchased land (932 acres) and laid out a village.  He made a deal with the North Missouri Railroad to give them land to build a depot and switch yard if they would agree to name the village after him.  In 1857, the first train arrived in Truesdale, MO.

         Although he remained a civilian throughout the Civil War, Mr. Truesdale was referred to as "Colonel" Truesdale.  After the fall of Fort Sumpter, he was appointed as a military superintendent of the North Missouri Railroad.  He was put in charge of the Police and Secret Service under General Rosecrans who was in command of the Army of the Mississippi.

         Mr. Truesdale's 932 acre estate, comprising of most of present Warrenton and Truesdale, MO., was purchased May 19, 1863 by the Methodist Episcopal church as a school and home for orphans of fallen Civil War soldiers.  It was called the Western Orphan Asylum and Educational Institute.  The large house that the Truesdale's lived in became the orphanage.  In 1869, the name changed to Central Wesleyan College and Orphan Asylum.

         In 1864, Mr. Truesdale moved his family to Bunker Hill.  Mr. Truesdale died November 28, 1867.  His wife and children remained here until 1868 when they moved to Pennsylvania to live with her parents.  Buried here in the Bunker Hill Cemetery are Mr. and Mrs. Truesdale, two of their daughters, and three of their grandchildren.

         The city of Truesdale, MO conducted the dedication ceremony.  Guests included the City Hall staff:  Elsa Smith-Fernandez, Missy Bachamp, Elsie Morris, Mark Bennett, and Hal Pherigo. Police Chief Casey Doyle, Truesdale Mayor Chris Watson and Board of Alderman: Joe Brooks, Jerry Cannon, Robert Green, and Mike Thomas.  Mr. Truesdale's ancestor, grandson, Steve Williams from Tennessee and retired Truesdale Administrator and Truesdale Historian Marylou Rainwater.  other guests were also present.

    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society.  "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, April 21, 2022

    Thursday, April 7, 2022

    History of Round Prairie Christian Church



        This is a followup blog to our previous posting at: https://bunkerhillhistory.blogspot.com/2022/02/history-of-round-prairie-church.html

        The Round Prairie Christian Church organized July 1, 1845 by appointing John P. Bayless and Samuel Wood to the office of Eldership.  Hiram Daughterty [Sic], and John Nesbit were appointed as Deacons at the same time.  About 1849, John W. Keller was added to the list of Elders and Johnson McGilvary and W.S. Spruill were ordained Elders.  Levi Miller and William Nesbit were ordained as Deacons at the same time.

        Johnson McGilvary went off to the Army and died.  In 1874, Peter C. Randle and Albert Fairchild were added to the Eldership and Benjamin Mize and Wm. Soapes to the deaconship.

        Elder Fairchild moved his membership and died  March 12, 1881.  Scott Mize was added to the list of Deacons by the church and Sanford Mize, at the same time, was appointed the same time as an assistant clerk for the church at Round Prairie.  The church continued to add persons to the roll until the membership reached 376.  The church was discontinued about 1918.  --Submitted by Helen Mize.

    From Bunker Hill Revisited, Vol. 6, 1920-1940 by Carl Stanton

        March 25, 1932: the site of Round Prairie Christian Church located about 5 or 6 miles Southeast of the City was recently sold and the proceeds distributed to the National City Church at Washington, D.C., the neighboring Christian churches, and to missionaries.  

        While a church has passed, its memory and influence still live.  This congregations was organized on July 31, 1845. Its first officers were John P. Bayless, Samuel Wood, elders, Hiram Daugherty and Jon Nesbit, deacons.  Other office bearers remembered are John Keller, 1849; John McGilvery, W.P. Spruill, 1854; Peter Randle, Albert Fairchild, Benjamin Mize, William Soapes, 1874;  Scott Mize, deacon, 1881; Sanford Mize, clerk.  Trustees who served from 1912 to the date propery was disposed of are: R.N. Nesbit, J.R. Coatney and James Richards.  Early members still living are Mrs. C.A. Craw, Wichita, Kans. 95 years, and Mrs. Margaret Mize Teeters, Kansas City, Mo., age 86.  W.H. Groner, one of the ministers long since dead, who served for 37 years and baptized upward of 400 of its members, is lovingly remembered.

    ...Read more about this and other Bunker Hill, IL historical stories at https://bunkerhillhistory.org/

    --Cite this story: The Bunker Hill IL Historical Society. "A Look Back in Bunker Hill History." Bunker Hill Gazette-News, April 7, 2022, February 10, 2022.  

    Stanton, Carl L. . "Bunker Hill News 1932." In Bunker Hill Revisited, Volume Six, 1920-1940, p. 120. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 2006. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.

    Redford, Carol, and Betty Triplett. "Bunker Hill History." In Reflections: A History of the Bunker Hill-Woodburn Area, p. 123. Bunker Hill: Bunker Hill Publications, 1993. Provided by the Bunker Hill Historical Society.