THE ALGONA THEATRE

It seems that whenever I come up with a topic for a new post, it never turns out the way I initially pictured it.  Sometimes my research takes me down a rabbit hole or leads me down twisting and turning paths.  Such is the case in point.  My original idea was to do a story on the Algona Theatre, but that research led to the New Call theatre which led to the Old Call Opera House and so my story takes you further back in time . . . 

THE OLD CALL

Most of us are familiar with the story of the building known originally as the Call Opera House located on Thorington Street just across the street from the courthouse.  Built by Ambrose Call and business partners in 1893, it served as an event center for the area hosting many types of entertainment, including live performances of all kinds, political rallies, school plays, graduations, and on and on, until settling into its final role as a motion picture theater.  It met its demise in a fiery inferno on April 28, 1937.

The marque of the Iowa Theatre
can be seen two buildings down
from the Old Call Theatre
(Kossuth Co Advance 7/1/1954)

N.C. “Norm” Rice had taken over management of the Call Opera House/Theatre in 1916.  One of the first things he did was to install equipment for the showing of motion pictures.  In 1929 Rice installed a sound system in the Old Call which rivaled many fine theaters in the state.  The Rice family, which consisted of wife, Harriett, and daughter, Mary Janice, lived in an apartment located in the Call.  Harriett was an exceptional pianist having attended the Boston Conservatory of Music.  She worked closely with her husband managing the Call.  When it burned, the Rices also lost all of their worldly possessions.

Plans for a new 700 seat facility began to be discussed while the embers of the old Call still smoldered.  The plans never got beyond the discussion stage though and the remains of the opera house continued to be an eyesore for more than a year.  Occasionally, a brick, window pane, or piece of mortar would fall to the sidewalk below, sometimes narrowly missing an unsuspecting passerby. 

Although the loss of the landmark Call was a devastating blow to the community, Algona was not left without a theater.  Rice also managed the Iowa Theatre which was located several doors north of the old Call site.  The motion pictures that had been booked at the Call were able to be screened there.  

THE NEW CALL

A few blocks to the north Gail Pettit had built a new motion picture theater at 216 East State Street which had opened in 1936 under the name “State Theater.”  When plans to rebuild at the old Call site did not materialize, Norm Rice and other investors purchased the building and business, renaming it “The Call.”  With its imposing façade, it became a hallmark of downtown Algona.  Unfortunately, it too would meet the fiery demise its namesake had.

Kossuth County Advance 12/21/1950

During the afternoon of December 20, 1950, a blaze broke out which soon engulfed the theater building.  Embers were flying everywhere putting other structures in danger.  The Duryea house on Call Street caught fire on the roof which fireman were able to put out.  Fire, smoke and water damage occurred to neighboring businesses which included Pratt Electric, Moose Hall, and the Kent Garage. 

The Whittemore Fire Department was called to help fight the inferno.  It was estimated that 1500 gallons of water per minute were being sprayed on the fire.  The street became coated with ice, making it very slippery for those on the scene. The back of the building collapsed and power to the area went down when utility poles and lines were damaged. 

It had been a very tough few days for Norman and Harriett Rice.  Mr. Rice had fallen earlier in the week and injured his leg.  Losing another theater to fire must have been very discouraging and then, to put the icing on the cake, Harriett fell the morning after the fire and broke her shoulder. 

THE ALGONA THEATRE

Plans to build a new theater began almost immediately.  A few years before Norm had entered into a partnership with Central States Theatre Corporation of Des Moines.  An architect by the name of George Becker from Minneapolis was hired to design the new building before the year was out.  Once again, the old Iowa Theater came to the rescue and the movies that had been booked to be shown at The Call made their debut at the Iowa instead.

Construction of the new facility, which would be named The Algona, began soon after the building permit was issued at the end of June.  The cost of the project was estimated at $60,000, a handsome budget in those days.  The final design plan provided for seating of 780 and promised every guest optimum viewing pleasure. 

Norman Rice was involved in the initial plans, but on August 1, 1951, he announced that he had sold his interest to Central States Theatre Corporation and he officially retired after 35 years in the theater management business.  He was well known in the industry, not only as a pioneer developer of sound in motion picture, but also in his ability to bring first-run films to the local screen upon release while other small-town theaters waited months to book the same movie.  He would not have long to enjoy his retirement as he died in September of 1952.

The new theater was a modern wonder of stainless steel and glass and was touted to be the most fireproof building in Algona.  A large canopy extended out over the sidewalk in front.  Huge neon letters spelling out “ALGONA” were attached to the top of both program boards which were mounted on the canopy.  The program boards were positioned so that the name of the latest feature could be seen from either direction on State Street.  Posters of upcoming attractions were displayed in glass cases on the front of the building.

Kossuth County Advance 7/1/1954

Doors of glass lined the front entrance.  The ticket office was on the right.  Its location allowed for ticket sales to be made either inside or outside, depending on the weather.  The concession booth was next to the ticket office and contained confections of many varieties and of course popcorn and soda could be purchased there as well.

Concession stand and
ticket booth

Across the lobby from the concession area was a passageway that led to an exit.  It was separated from the lobby area by a glass partition.  Another row of doors led to the inner foyer from which you would enter the auditorium.  At each end of the inner foyer were stairs that led up to the balcony which extended over the front lobby and could seat 195.  There was also a door on the west side of the inner foyer which was the entry to the manager’s office.  The office itself was located behind the concession stand. 

On the east side of the inner foyer were the entrances to the “luxuriously furnished powder and smoking rooms.”  They were quite spacious and the powder room featured cushioned chairs and mirrors all along one wall.

The auditorium could be entered on either side of the inner foyer near the balcony stairs.  The room was lined with figured acoustic board for optimum sound quality.  The screen covered a large portion of the south wall and was covered by gold curtains which swept back as the lights dimmed when the show was about to begin.  

Almost 600 sponge cushioned, form fitting, velvet upholstered chairs were mounted on the gradually pitched floor to ensure good vision from any seat.  The chairs were described as “push backs” which allowed you to push back your seat to allow someone to pass in front of you without standing up.  They were the latest thing in theater seating at the time.  Aisles were covered with burgundy carpet and rope lighting ran along the edge to guide you to your seat after the lights had been dimmed and the previews begun – or for that trip to the concession stand for a refill.

The projection area was directly behind the balcony and contained a state-of-the-art twin projection machine to provide the ultimate in technicolor viewing.  The storage room next to it provided easy access to the front canopy to allow the program boards to be changed as needed.  

The Algona Upper Des Moines 9/13/1951

The new manager, William “Bill” Schleiger, was the host at the grand opening of the new theater on September 13, 1951.  Crowds lined up down the street to have an opportunity to be in the first viewing audience.  The opening feature was “On Moonlight Bay” starring Doris Day and Gordon MacRae.  Admission prices were 60¢ for adults, 45¢ for juniors (ages 12-16) and 14¢ for children.  Having separate prices for juniors was a new innovation and was well received by area families.

Kossuth County Advance 9/18/1951

PERSONAL MEMORIES

My memories of the theater date back to the 1960's.  We did not frequent the theater much as a family but as I grew older, I was often allowed to attend a movie on Saturday afternoon.  One of my favorites was “Sound of Music” and I sang every song I could remember as I slowly walked home, replaying every scene in my mind.  I was often pressed into taking my little brother to shows and free merchant movies and though I sometimes protested having to be his babysitter, I had to admit that I enjoyed the shows we went to almost as much as he did.

If I was lucky, I would have enough money to buy a treat and I remember looking at the variety in the concession case while waiting my turn to order.  There were many good things to purchase and I would go back and forth, trying to make a decision in advance so I didn’t hold up the line when it was my turn.  Although many brightly wrapped packages would catch my eye, nine times out of ten I would default to my favorite, Sugar Babies, and then ration them out so that they would last me through the show, which of course they never did.

The Algona in 1980

As I grew older, the theater was a frequent destination, whether with friends or on a date.  James Bond flicks, Kramer vs. Kramer, All the President’s Men and The Sting were so entertaining on the big screen.  And before too many years passed, I was taking my own children to the Algona Theatre to make their own memories of watching Disney movies, Jurassic Park, and Home Alone.

The Algona Theatre building in 2020

In July of 2005, a tri-plex movie theater opened just a block down the street and after 54 years of service, The Algona closed.  Today the building stands vacant, having outlived its usefulness as a theater.  It has been the home to several bars/restaurants during the intervening years and I hope that it will one day open its doors to serve the public once again.  For now, my memories will have to be enough.

This post is dedicated to my late sister, Kathy, who worked in both the ticket booth and concession stand at The Algona while in high school.  It was there she met her future husband, Dave.  Miss you, Sis!

Until next time,

Jean

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AUREL WOHNKE AND THE WOHNKE HOSPITAL

Hospitals today are large businesses with many departments, levels of care, and a multitude of employees—a big change from 70 to 100 years ago.  There was a time when most procedures were performed either in doctor’s offices or in the homes of patients.  Hospitals, when needed, could be a building dedicated for that purpose, but in many rural communities, the hospital could just as easily be a located in a residence with all care provided by one or two people.  Such was the case with the Wohnke Hospital in Bancroft.  During a time in the 1930’s, the home of George and Aurel Wohnke served the community well in that regard.

NURSE GARDNER

Aurel Gardner Wohnke dedicated her life to nursing.  The daughter of Ed and Sarah (Dotson) Gardner, she was born November 23, 1890 on the Gardners’ farm in Seneca Township, the oldest of seven children.  Although we know little about her early life, a major blow came to the family in 1912 when her father committed suicide, leaving her mother with several young children yet in the home.  At that time Aurel was 21.  She would go on to graduate from the University of Iowa in 1916 as a registered nurse. 

Aurel came back to the Bancroft area and put her degree to good use.  She took on private cases, staying in the patient’s home and caring for them throughout their illness and recovery.  This was more than a full time job—it was round the clock on-call service.  She attended at surgeries and deliveries, often remaining to nurse the patient back to full health or care for newborns.  During the influenza outbreak in 1918 the demand for her services was so great that she got very little rest herself.  Dr. Devine, a local physician with whom she often worked, stated that she was the best pneumonia nurse there was.

I picture Aurel as an independent woman.  I believe that she assisted her mother financially and must have set a good example as a nurse because her sister, Vera, followed in her footsteps.  Unmarried until her late 30’s, she was able to make decisions about how to lead her life that other women of the time could not.  Her travels in the county from medical case to medical case were featured regularly in the newspapers as was the purchase of a new Chevrolet automobile in 1925.  Quite an accomplishment for a single woman at the time.

MARRIED LIFE AND OPENING A HOSPITAL

It is unknown how she met her husband.  George Wohnke was a Chicago native born June 28, 1886.  Several of Aurel’s siblings settled in that city and she may have worked there for a brief time in the mid 1920’s.  George was a WWI veteran having served as a chief yeoman in the Navy.  After marrying in June of 1928, the couple remained in the Chicago area until around 1930.  They had purchased the house located at 329 W. Ramsey Street in 1929 and then moved there a year later. 

329 West Ramsey in 2005

George had served as a private secretary with the Department of Agriculture of the USDA and after his move he began to work at the CCC Camp in Bancroft.  Aurel settled back into the community quickly and soon opened their home as a hospital.  It is unknown how many patients the house could accommodate, but was often reported by the local newspaper to be full to capacity. 

Bancroft Register
January 5, 1933

Many surgeries were performed there.  According to an article written for the Bancroft Register by A. C. Tony Accurso and published February 4, 2009, local resident, Amanda Kollasch, recalled her emergency appendectomy at Wohnke Hospital.  She was just 16 years old and living in Lakota.  Her local doctor was not available so she was rushed to Bancroft in severe pain.  Dr. T. J. Egan performed the surgery which took place on the dining room table of the Wohnke home.  After a few days of post-surgical care, Amanda left the hospital fully recovered.

WORLD WAR II AND CHICAGO

By 1935 the CCC Camp had closed and George found work in the grocery department of Kennedy’s Store.  Aurel continued to operate the hospital until 1942.  With the outbreak of World War II, the Wohnkes moved back to Chicago where George got a job in the Elwood Defense Plant which made bombs and 105 mm shells.  He worked checking in materials at the plant.  Aurel worked 12 hour shifts at Elmhurst Hospital in Oak Park.  George roomed in Joliet during the week and traveled to spend time with Aurel on the weekends.

In 1948 the Wohnkes returned to Bancroft and settled back into their home which they had rented out during the war.  George went into partnership with Glen Cowing and the two opened the Cowing-Wohnke Food Mart where he would help feed the community until his retirement in 1955.

Bancroft Register
May 13, 1948

The couple were deeply invested in the area.  George served on the board of the Bancroft Community School District and was elected secretary.  He also played a prominent role in the local American Legion organization.  At times he would put on his old Navy uniform and speak at the schools about his service during WWI.  Both of the Wohnkes were on the board of the Greenwood Cemetery Association/ Bancroft Cemetery Association, hosting annual meetings in their home.

The First Baptist Church of Bancroft served as their home away from home.  Aurel was involved in the Ladies Aid Society of the church and the couple often hosted various mission groups and other activities related to the congregation in their home. George was given the right hand of fellowship on June 18, 1937, and was a faithful member of the congregation until his death.

The Wohnkes had always been avid gardeners and after his retirement in 1955, they began to focus their efforts on raising gladioli and orchids.  George became somewhat of an expert when it came to raising orchids and the couple won many awards for their magnificent glads.  Aurel used many to decorate for special services or funerals at their church.  Strangers would often stop by to admire the stunning beauty of their flower gardens. They had 35 to 40 varieties of gladioli and would sell from 6,000 to 7,000 blooms per year until around 1972 when it became too difficult for the two of them to manage.

50 YEARS TOGETHER

From the Bancroft Register

In 1978 the couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with a large reception at the First Baptist Church.  Friends, neighbors and former patients and customers from near and far attended the celebration.  That year the Wohnkes also made the decision to sell their cherished home and move to Heritage Apartments.  She was almost 88 at the time of the move and he was 92.  They moved in the fall and then in April of 1979, Aurel died unexpectedly.  George remained active in the community for several more years until he suffered a stroke at the age of 95 which took his life a few weeks later.

The house in 2018

WOHNKE HOSPITAL

The Wohnkes opened their hospital during the 1930s which was a difficult decade for the whole country.  With the Great Depression grinding on, it leads one to wonder how well Aurel was paid for the services rendered at her hospital.  Many physicians of the day recounted stories of taking chickens, eggs or other produce in lieu of cash payment and many just wrote off overdue accounts for those who could not pay.  It is likely that Aurel could have shared similar tales.  Despite the uncertain times, Aurel and George chose to make a difference by opening Wohnke Hospital which made an important contribution to the health care needs of Bancroft and the surrounding area.

Until next time,

Jean

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THE HAWES HOUSE

Last summer I led a historic tour of Algona for a leadership class sponsored by the Algona Chamber of Commerce.  This was a combination of several tours that had been done in the past by Mayor Lynn Kueck and Jane Nettleton.  Several of the stops along the tour were unfamiliar to me and I decided when I had the time, I was going to dig a little deeper into their history to learn more.  One of those stops concerns a house in the south part of town.

  

THE HOUSE 

At 418 South Harlan Street in Algona, you will find a lovely Victorian house that was constructed by Fred W. Hawes and his wife.  Fred was born on August 9, 1845 in Corinna, Maine and came to Algona around 1870.  His wife, Lovica B. Wilson Hawes, (commonly known as Harriet), had been born in 1852 in Genoa, Illinois.  Together they would have one child, Frederick Wilson Hawes, who was born February 13, 1873.

Fred was soon a part of the bustling downtown business district.  An article in the May 5, 1872 edition of the Upper Des Moines stated that he was putting up a large harness shop on State Street. In addition to selling and repairing harnesses, bridles, saddles and other horse accessories, the store handled trunks, traveling bags, buffalo robes and other items for its two-legged customers.  Fred was also in the market for hides, furs and wool.

From Algona Republican, July 23, 1879

Later articles hail Fred as a hard-working, industrious businessman who was successful at his profession. His success must have been great enough that in 1877 the Hawes decided to build a new home and purchased a tract which lies at the corner of Kennedy and Harlan streets.  Abram Wolfe was chosen as the builder.  He would later go on to build the Congregational Church.  Construction of the house began in 1878.  That would also be a year of unforeseen struggle for the Hawes family.

1878

In March of 1878, Harriet Hawes contracted diphtheria.  A bacterial infection that spreads very easily, diphtheria causes sore throat, fever, swollen glands and weakness.  At its worst, it can lead to difficulty breathing, heart failure, paralysis and even death.  Today it is easily treatable with antibiotics, but in 1878 it posed a real danger to those who contracted the disease. Newspaper reports state that Mrs. Hawes was quite ill.  This must have been a tough time for the family—dealing with her illness, building a new house, running a busy business enterprise and chasing an active five year old.  Despite Harriet’s illness, construction of the house proceeded.  The June 6^th edition of the Upper Des Moines reports that rapid progress was being made on the house and that it would be one of the finest residences in Algona when completed.

After several months of recovery, July found Mrs. Hawes reunited with her family.  An article in the July 25, 1878 edition of the Upper Des Moines states that “Fred Hawes is again happy in the presence of his wife.  They are occupying temporarily the rooms over his store, awaiting the completion of their house.”

I could not determine exactly when the Hawes family moved into their new home, but I can only imagine what it must have been like seeing the finished design details.  Brick manufactured here in Algona was used for the exterior.  Inside, a curved plaster wall in the kitchen accommodates the curved staircase on the opposite side.  The staircase features a black walnut banister that wraps around the open upstairs.  The rooms have 10 foot ceilings, arched doorways and hardwood floors. 

By that fall, things seemed to finally have settled down.  Harriett had recovered from her bout with diphtheria, they had settled into their new home, and business was good.  In early November, Fred joined Ambrose Call, A.D. Clarke, and J. H. Hawkins on a deer hunt in northern Kossuth County.  Their trip was successful as they all managed to bring home some venison to enjoy during the upcoming winter.

Just a few days later, however, another misfortune occurred.  Around 7 p.m. on November 23, 1878, a fire was spotted in the barn behind the Hawes’ harness shop.  At the time of discovery, flames had already broken through the roof.  The barn contained a cow belonging to John Goeders, hay, several pieces of equipment and other miscellaneous articles. A gusty west wind was blowing which threatened the entire city.  With no organized fire department, it was up to the citizens to save their town.  Able bodied townspeople rushed to the scene to fight the fire, buckets in hand.  Pail after pail of water was thrown on the conflagration until it was contained, miraculously without spreading to a single neighboring building.

This blaze ignited a discussion in the community about the need for fire protection in Algona.  Depending on unorganized locals to turn out with their buckets to put out a raging inferno did not seem to be the best of plans.  The most practicable suggestion made was the formation of two companies—a bucket company and a hook and ladder company.  It was felt that the young men of the town would enthusiastically band together to create a hook and ladder company while the older men were numerous and strong enough to operate a bucket brigade. Further it was suggested that the necessary buckets and other equipment could be stored in the basement of the courthouse with the ladders stored in an adjoining shed. Despite the outcry, a number of years would pass before an organized fire department would be formed.

When 1878 came to a close, the Hawes family must have been glad to step off the roller coaster ride that it had been.  They began to enjoy their home. In 1879 they hosted a combination social/church festival on June 17^th for the Episcopal Church of which they were active members.  One can picture the members of their congregation gathered on the front lawn enjoying conversation and homemade ice cream and strawberries.

FEATURED IN “PICTURESQUE ALGONA”

Fred’s business continued to grow and in 1880 he added on to his shop to make a place to display his stock of clothing and accessories for gents.  A very sad incident occurred in the fall of 1882 when the infant daughter of the couple died when she was just a few days old.

In April of 1883, they sold their lovely home to Mary J. Clarke.  She in turn sold it to E. J. Gilmore in 1890 and it was featured in “Picturesque Algona” as Gilmore’s home when that booklet was published in 1900.

THE HAWES FAMILY LEAVES ALGONA

As the decade of the 1880s came to a close, Fred must have begun to feel a wanderlust.   The Hawes sold their home in the area and moved to Indian Territory (now Oklahoma) where they became pioneer settlers.  Another leather goods business was opened in Henryetta, Oklahoma, which eventually was taken over by their son, Fred, who was a veteran of the Spanish American War. 

Fred, Sr., passed away on April 16, 1911, and was buried in West Lawn Cemetery in Henryetta.  His son became a prominent businessman and active community member.  He took care of his mother until her passing in May of 1916.  She was laid to rest beside Fred, Sr.

INVITATION

Next time you drive through the intersection of Harlan and Kennedy streets, I invite you to take a moment to study the beautiful brick home located in the northwest corner.  At the age of 140 years, the stately home remains one of the most charming residences in Algona.  It stands in tribute to the quality workmanship of its builder, Abram Wolfe, as well as in honor of Fred and Harriet Hawes, its first occupants. 

Until next time,

Kossuth County History Buff

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THREE GENERATIONS OF PHARMACISTS

I have mentioned a time or two before that old photographs are my weakness.  The black and white images speak to me of times past and leave me yearning to know more.  I was lucky enough to be contacted by the Algona Chamber of Commerce regarding a box of old photos that were given to them that depicted the history of three generations of pharmacists and the store that was home to them all.  I want to share the photos and their stories with you.

E. E. CONNER

The first photo depicts the interior of the E. E. Conner & Co. store.  Edward Everett Conner was the pharmacist in residence and according to a note found with the photo, it was taken in November of 1914, just before he sold the store.  Conner is pictured second from left.  I believe the photo was actually taken at an earlier date as my research discloses that Mr. Conner had sold out and the store was under new management as early as 1909. 

E. E. Conner & Co. Store

E.E. Conner had owned and operated a drug store in Livermore, Iowa, for a number of years prior to coming to Algona.  In 1903 he had purchased the inventory of E. F. Smith & Co. and took over management of the store at 14 East State.  The Conner family soon settled in Algona.  Mrs. Conner was the former Lavina (Vinnie) Hunt originally from the Livermore area. 

The main feature of the Conner store was its soda fountain.  The photo clearly shows the large ornate wood counter with stools.  The fountain can be seen behind the counter underneath what appears to be a large mirror.  It must have been quite beautiful. 

Newspaper articles seem to contradict themselves as to just when and to whom the store was next sold, but at some point it became known as Central Drug Company.  It appears that two gentlemen named Lauer & Johnson had an ownership interest as well as Al Falkenhainer, A. W. Larson, and M.D. Haggard at various times.

K. D. JAMES 

In October of 1914, the business was sold to K.D. “Bob” James who came to Algona from Corning, Iowa.  He had worked at the W. B. Ankeny drug store in that city for ten years and was excited to be in charge of his own store.  The name was changed to the James Drug Store which continued to be associated with the Rexall line. 

K.D. James Drugs in the 1920s

The next picture in the collection shows the store now called K.D. James Drugs in the 1920's.  The ornate wood soda fountain counter is gone, replaced with a lower white countertop.  Small tables and chairs down the center of the store provided seating.  Brighter lighting had been installed, giving the area a more inviting look.  Best of all, the Rexall 1 cent sale is on!  Imagine what you might have been able to buy for just a penny.

James Drug Store was a popular stop for a fountain drink or afternoon snack as well as a gathering spot for downtown businessmen to share a cup of coffee and the latest gossip.  Besides prescription medication and over the counter drugs, the business was well stocked with cosmetics and personal care items as well as gifts such as dishes and jewelry items. 

Christmas in the 1930's at K.D. James Drugs

Christmas decorations abound in the photo from the 1930's.  Streamers drape the ceiling, a small tree sits atop a display case toward the back and a scene featuring Santa is wrapped around the cabinet in the lower left hand corner.  Bar stools have returned to the soda fountain counter.  Although there is no photo to document it, a more modern store front was constructed during this decade as well.

The 1940's

The whole store got a face lift in the 1940's with new flooring, lighting and wall decor.  The soda fountain was completely re-imagined once again.  With ten bar stools installed along the counter, there was plenty of seating for all.  New display cases set at an angle helped open up the center space, leaving plenty of room for shoppers to browse at their leisure.  And you could even pick up a “Walking Sundae” for a nickel.

Bob James was a progressive fellow and he remodeled the store no less than five times during his 40 years in business.  Three different soda fountains were enjoyed by customers over the years.  James loved the hustle and bustle of the establishment and many, many customers became close friends while swapping stories over coffee or soda.  In the 1950's James suffered a heart attack and regretfully decided it was time to retire.  It was a difficult decision for him as he wrote in this ad placed in the Algona Upper Des Moines on February 23, 1954:

It is with mixed feelings that I announce the sale of my drug store to M. H. Honsbruch.  After 40 years in the same location associated with so many fine people who have made up Algona in those years it’s a bit difficult to say goodbye to an active business life.  Before doing so it has been my desire to get a young man to replace me.  Algona and Algonians have been good to me, and I remember when I came here in 1914 the welcome I received.  I wanted a man about the age I was—a progressive pharmacist.  The building of the store has been my life—and I wanted it continued by a young man.  Mr. Honsbruch is the kind of a man with the personality I wanted to take over my store.  It has been a pleasure to serve you through the years.  A heartfelt “thank you” from K.D. “Bob” James.

Bob did not get to enjoy retirement for long.  In early January of 1956, he and his wife, Peg, left Algona to spend the winter in Phoenix.  While in Las Cruces, New Mexico, he suffered a massive heart attack which caused his death.  His body was returned to Algona where it was buried in Riverview Cemetery.

M. H. “DUTCH” HONSBRUCH

New era - Honsbruch's in the 1950's

The photos from the 1950's show the store after purchase by Honsbruch.  In fact you can see M. H. “Dutch” Honsbruch in the back of the top photo hard at work filling a prescription.  The store is filled to the brim with merchandise and they handled a little of everything as shown by the display on the counter selling Salem, Camel and Winston cigarettes. 

1960's at Honsbruch's

The final two photos from the collection are of the store in the 1960's. Once again the soda fountain has been redesigned.  Schwan’s Ice Cream was featured for use in the ice cream cones, sundaes and malts that were on the menu.  A half full coffee pot awaits the next customer. 

Bob James was right about one thing – the young man who purchased the store had just the personality to carry on the James tradition.  Honsbruch Drug continued to be an anchor store for downtown Algona.  For many local businessmen, their day would not be complete without a cup of coffee or a soda at Honsbruch’s.  Just like Bob James, Dutch’s customers became his life-long friends.

Due to poor health, Dutch retired in 1990 and Honsbruch Drug closed not long after, ending the store's life as a pharmacy.  

14 East State Street
in 2018

EPILOGUE

I am always grateful to those who will go out of their way to be sure that photos or memorabilia will be preserved.  In order to insure their safety for the generations to come, I did remove this collection of photos from their frames, scanned them, and then placed them in archival-safe protective coverings and in a binder.  The binder and the digital media were then delivered to the Kossuth County Historical Society for placement in their archives and the digital images were added to the growing collection of the Kossuth County Genealogical Society.  Since the digital images can be easily accessed, the original photos themselves need never be touched again, but are available for research purposes if needed.

These photos could have easily been destroyed, but are now preserved and will remain to document 60 years of history of business in Algona all because someone realized their value and made an effort to find the right home for them.  If you have a collection of photos, postcards or memorabilia with genealogical or historical value, do you have a plan in place to pass them on at the time of your death?  So many items have been destroyed because the decedent’s wishes were never made known and the next generation had no interest.  Better yet, consider allowing the items to be scanned and preserved digitally while you are here to see that it is done.  The Kossuth County Genealogical Society has a great interest in preserving and digitizing photos and/or memorabilia that help tell the stories of our ancestors.  You can message me through the Kossuth County History Buff Facebook page if you have materials to share.

Until next time,

Jean

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