THE HOMES OF AMBROSE A. CALL, PART I

Many of you will recall the beautiful mansions that Ambrose and Asa Call and their families once called home.  I don’t remember much about Asa’s house which once stood where the Call City Park is located, but I do recollect the Ambrose Call home during its last years of service as the Good Samaritan Home.  As a young girl I accompanied my mother there to see various patients during the late 1960s.  Unfortunately I have no memories about the inside of the house.

This past summer the story of Ambrose Call and his wife, Nancy, was featured in “Voices From the Past” cemetery walk at Riverview Cemetery during Founders’ Day weekend.  I gathered a lot of research about the three homes of the Calls to be used for the preparation of the guides’ scripts.  Having gathered so much more information than we could use for the scripts, it seems only fair to share the research in a post or two.

THE LOG CABIN IN THE WOODS

The very first cabin in Kossuth County was built by Ambrose and his friend, William T. Smith.  During their initial trip to Kossuth County when they staked their first claims, the Call brothers did some strategic planning.  They decided that Ambrose would work on building a cabin in which they could live during the upcoming winter while Asa traveled back to Iowa City to register their claims and to bring back his new bride, Sarah, before bad weather struck.

With the plan in place, the brothers traveled together to Boone, where Ambrose was to procure the equipment and supplies needed for the cabin.  While there, Ambrose met William T. Smith who was fascinated by the stories of Kossuth County told by the Calls.  Ambrose knew that he could not construct a log cabin alone, so he encouraged Mr. Smith to accompany him to his new home and perhaps strike a claim for himself.  Smith agreed.  With Ambrose leading the way, the two traveled to the tract that Ambrose had claimed for his own on July 10, 1854.  Together the two built the cabin. 

The memorial near the cabin site

According to the speech given by Ambrose Call at the 1904 semi-centennial, the cabin was 14x16 feet in size and the logs, which were notched at the corners, “were as large as two men could raise.”  He goes on, “My cabin had a door made of puncheons hewn from basswood logs, a one sash window 10x12, a chimney made of sticks, and mortar made of yellow clay; the fireplace of boulders and the hearth of dirt.  In those very early days we had no sod houses.  Our cabins were all built of logs, just as our great grandfathers in the green mountain state built them, a little improvement on the cabin in which Abraham Lincoln learned to read his bible.”    

ALL ALONE

Once the cabin was completed, Mr. Smith quickly grew tired of the isolation and loneliness.  He left the country and never returned.  That left Ambrose the only white man in the whole county.  He was aware that due to the killing of Si-do-min-a-do-tah (Old Two Fingers), the brother of Ink-pa-du-tah, the whole area was unsafe and he also knew that his new cabin was only a short distance from the location where the Sioux had robbed a band of surveyors earlier that same year and driven them out of the county.  Given those facts, it must have taken a special kind of courage to stay there all alone.

Thankfully his solitude was short lived as Asa came back for a week or two in late August to mark claims before returning to Iowa City and the first band of settlers to the area arrived on August 27, 1854.  On November 4^th, Asa arrived with Sarah, and she made the rough cabin a real home.  Florence Call Cowles described her as “young, enthusiastic, adaptable, and resourceful.”

LIFE IN THE CABIN

Sarah Heckart Call herself shared the following memory about the cabin:  “It was made of poles, a stick chimney and a little clap board door about four feet high. When we first came it had no windows nor door, but we soon fixed it comfortably.  I often think of that little cabin with its great fire place and if I should travel the world over I could find no place where I could enjoy myself better than I did there.  While we lived in Iowa City we had always boarded at the hotel, so in that little cabin I took my first lessons in housekeeping.  The room was so small that when strangers came in the country and stopped with us, as they usually did, we were obliged to set our table and chairs out of doors and make beds on the floor.  Our bags of flour, coffee, beans, etc., were pitched under the beds, and our meat which was mostly elk and venison lay on the roof of the house well frozen.”

Although Asa and Sarah had been married for a few months, they had been apart the majority of that time while the Call brothers traveled in search of the location for their new city and again when Asa journeyed back to Kossuth County at the end of August.  I am sure that by November Sarah was looking forward to permanently being with her new husband and truly beginning their life together.  Although she had to be aware that the couple would be sharing the small cabin with her brother in law, I can imagine that it must have been difficult at times spending the long winter in the 14x16 foot room with both your new husband and a brother-in-law that you barely knew. On one hand you would like to have more private time with your new husband but on the other it was nice to have another male presence for protection in this untamed territory.

Alexander Brown's log cabin which sits in
Ambrose A. Call State Park

It is hard to really imagine what life must have been like in the very early days of settlement.  A description that has always fascinated me is contained in the story of the arrival of W.H. Ingham and D. E. Stine outside the Call cabin on the 24^th of November, 1854.  These two gentlemen were the first outsiders they had seen since Sarah’s arrival.  An account set out in the “History of Kossuth County” written by B. F. Reed in 1912, states:  “They were met in front of the cabin by the husband, who was wearing a silk blouse coat, white shirt and collar, and polished shoes.  The puzzling question that arose in their minds for solution was:  “What can be the object of a man of such commanding presence and evident ability living out here in the woods on the borders of civilization, dressed in such fashionable style?”  They accepted the courteous invitation to “alight and remain over night.”  Inside the cabin they were met by another surprise:  They were greeted by Mrs. Call who was tastily gowned in silk.  She stood before them, a young woman yet in her teens, and was the very picture of health and happiness.  Nature had done much in giving her both beauty and grace, but not more so than in giving her a disposition to be content with her lot and to make the most of what she found at hand.  The supper was a fine one that the two visitors in after years frequently referred to it when telling about their experience in first meeting Judge and Mrs. Asa C. Call.”

Although I have read this story many times, it was not until I was writing this story that it dawned on me that although Ingham describes staying overnight at the cabin, no mention is made of the presence of Ambrose Call, the owner of the abode.   Now there could be many explanations for this, but the romantic in me wants to believe that Ambrose wanted to give the newlyweds as much privacy as possible.  I have a feeling that quite likely there were many hunting trips that kept Ambrose away from home that winter until his older brother was able to build a log cabin in town the next spring.

Please join me for my next post which will tell the story of the house  Ambrose built for his own bride.

Until next time,

Kossuth County History Buff

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THE CARNEGIE LIBRARY

Anyone who grew up in Algona from 1905 to 1982 was very familiar with the Algona Public Library building.  To me it was a special place I frequented often.  Mom would often drop me off while she did her weekly grocery shopping so I could check out what was new in the children’s department.  I participated in the summer reading programs, shyly sharing the story with Audrey Duncan or one of her helpers in order to get credit for the number of books required to get a prize at the end of the program.  As I got older, I would spend many hours there researching school papers and reading the latest novels.  The Carnegie was truly a magical place.  But how did it come to be? 

THE DREAM

A free public library had been a dream of local Algona citizens—especially women’s groups—for many years.  From the very earliest days of the settlement, the locals had gathered for regular meetings of the reading club.  The local chapter of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union held a banquet in April of 1889 to raise funds to support the public “Reading Room” that they had recently opened.  People from all over the area contributed books to build the inventory.  Volunteers took turns at three-month terms serving as “librarian.”  The Reading Room would be open each Saturday afternoon and evening. 

Within several months a Reading Room Association was formed which then led to a reorganization in 1893 with the formation of the “Algona Library Association.”  Its constitution read, “to serve the cause of progress by stimulating a love for good literature, and by building up and maintaining in our midst a center of such literature, and for the encouragement of all objects which tend to promote the higher interests of our community, and for the maintaining of a public reading room so far as practicable.”   

LIBRARY GOAL

A separate organization was formed in 1894 called the Public Library Association whose main goal was to establish a public library.  The group sold stock in the corporation and anyone who purchased $10 worth of stock was entitled to free use of the library. All students were allowed to use the books at no charge.  It was at this time that the Algona Library Association turned over their book collection, reorganized into the Women’s Library Aid Society, and pledged their assistance in creating a public library. The Algona Monday Club also loaned their choice collection of 600 volumes to build the inventory of the Public Library Association.

Library in G.A.R. building - notice
Capt. Ingham's tarpon on the wall

In June of 1897 the library association approached the city council asking that a statute regarding the establishment of a public library be put to a vote of the public.  That year the referendum failed, but the next year it was adopted and on December 31, 1898, all of the property of the Public Library Association was turned over to the city and the Algona Free Public Library opened on January 3, 1899 on the main floor of the G.A.R. building. 

ANDREW CARNEGIE’S GIFT

Andrew Carnegie was a multimillionaire and philanthropist from New York City.  He was a promotor of education and he came up with the idea of offering grants to towns to be used for the building of a library.  Over 1600 Carnegie funded libraries were built across the nation between 1886 and 1917, including many in Iowa. 

In the early months of 1903, the library committee prepared and submitted an application for a Carnegie funded library.  By borrowing a copy of the application completed with regard to the Carnegie Library in Spencer, Iowa, they were able to present the information requested by Andrew Carnegie with their initial application.  They were pleased to receive a response within 30 days bearing the good news of a $10,000 award if a suitable site could be found.

THE SITE

See Ingham house in background

Capt. Wm. H. Ingham had earlier pledged the north half of the block on which his residence was located if $25,000 could be raised for the erection of the library building.  Various fundraising attempts were made.  Citizens were able to raise very little additional funds to add to the building fund, but Capt. Ingham did relent (perhaps with some nudges from his wife, Caroline, who was one of the initial founders of the local chapter of the W.C.T.U. and a lifelong promoter of reading and literature).  He eventually donated the portion of the block on which the Carnegie Library was built.

With a $10,000 grant from Andrew Carnegie and a suitable location obtained, the library building committee hired Patten & Miller of Chicago as architects to design the edifice.  Bids were let and four were received.  The board met in late July of 1904 and worked well into the night considering the bids.  Local contractor A. M. Coan submitted the lowest bid at $7,780 and received the contract which was to be completed by December 15th.  The agreement covered everything except sewer, heating, plumbing, ventilation, electric wiring and fixtures, window shades, and furniture.  After including these costs, the library building committee knew they would be able to complete the building for slightly more than $10,000.

THE BUILDING COMPLETED

Designed in Gothic style, the exterior was considered extremely plain compared to other Carnegie libraries.  The exterior size is 45 by 52 feet.  The level just above the foundation is of dark red pressed brick and the upper part of the building a Roman brick of grey color from Omaha.  This brick was long and narrow which was popular at the time.  It also contains Bedford stone caps and a gabled red-tiled roof with copper gutters, downspouts and valleys.  Glass doors at the top of a grand staircase on the north opened to a tiled vestibule.

The main story had a reading room and a children’s room, each 21 by 23 feet, with the stackroom and lavatory located on the west side.  Book shelves lined all the walls and the children’s room featured a fireplace.  The librarian’s desk was located in the center to be able to keep an eye on all areas.  Large arches connected each room and the walls and ceilings were artistically decorated.  The desk and all trim were in golden oak, with a rubbed finish.

Reading room

 

South side children's room

North side children's room

Librarian's desk and stackroom

Broad oak stairways and a side entrance half way down led to the well-lighted basement which featured a ten-foot ceiling to be used as an assembly room large enough to seat 150-200 people.  It contained a stage and fireplace.  A fuel room, two toilet rooms and a rest room would also be located on the lower floor. 

The March 30, 1905 edition of the Algona Advance celebrated the opening of the new library with the following description of the interior.  “The whole interior of the new home is handsomely finished and constructed with artistic beauty.  The entry ways, the halls, the arches, the alcoves and the cozy nooks and corners all have a pleasing and restful appearance.  The great amount of available room was a surprise to all, and that condition elicited many favorable expressions from the visitors.  The arrangement of the rooms and the equipment is a gratifying feature of the construction. 

The northeast room presents a classic appearance and makes one feel as if in the presence of higher qualities.  The children’s room in the southeast corner is truly a lovely home where the children can come to store their minds with useful information.  On its walls hang the portrait of the venerable librarian, Rev. E. P. McElroy, whose love for the children in his lifetime is well known, and the oil painting landscape, Des Moines, river scene, donated by Will Purvis of Chicago.  The other departments are also cheerful in appearance and designed for conveniences.”

The building served the community for almost 80 years as a library before it was no longer big enough for the needs of the area.  It is a well-recognized landmark in Algona which brings back many happy memories to those who spent any time within its walls.

OWN A PIECE OF HISTORY

A capital campaign is currently underway for a much needed renovation of the present library building located at 210 North Phillips in Algona.  To assist in that effort, the Kossuth County Genealogical Society is selling a 2019 keepsake calendar tracing the entire history of the Algona Public Library from its beginning as a reading club in 1857 through its irreplaceable presence in the community today.  The calendar is filled with photos, stories and tidbits that not only tell the library's story but will have you reminiscing about your youth.  All profits from calendar sales go to the renovation project and at just $15 each, everyone can afford a copy or two (hint, hint--they make wonderful gifts!). 

Copies can be purchased at the library, Chamber of Commerce, City Hall or from any KCGS board member.  If you would like a copy mailed to you, send a check for $20 ($15 plus $5 postage) to KCGS, c/o Algona Public Library, 210 North Phillips Street, Algona, IA  50511.  There are a limited number of calendars available so get yours soon before they are all gone.

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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DOCTOR McCREERY'S HOSPITAL

Did you know that Whittemore once had its own hospital?  When I was doing research on hospitals in Algona, I came across an article mentioning a hospital there and made up my mind that someday I was going to dig a little deeper.  I have discovered that it all came about because of well-loved physician J. W. McCreery.

From "Whittemore, Iowa 100 Years 1878-1978"

John W. McCreery was born near Dana, Iowa in 1877 to Scotch-Irish parents.  While still a young boy his family moved to Churdan where he grew up.  He received his medical degree from Drake University in 1898.  That same year he married Elizabeth Chalus who was described as a “petite French beauty” from Clare, Iowa.  He practiced medicine in Pioneer for one year before moving to Whittemore in 1900.  It would be his home for the next 49 years.

Whittemore Champion
December 7, 1906

The doctor hung out his shingle in an office over the Lien Drug Store on Broad Street.  He charged 50 cents for office calls and $1 for home visits in town.  Calls in the country cost $2 and were made with a horse and buggy over rough country roads which were markedly worse in winter and early spring.  He owned one team of horses but often had to rent a fresh team if he had to make a second call the same day.  He would charge $10 for an obstetrical call in the country which included the $2 visit fee.  If he had to rent a team, he would pay $4 so his profit margin was pretty slim, especially considering that labor and delivery could take 14 hours or more.

A doctor had to be prepared for almost anything.  On call 24 hours a day, he often delivered babies by the light of a kerosene lamp and performed surgeries such as appendectomies and tonsillectomies in his office or the homes of patients. Winter travel could be harrowing and was often by sleigh or bobsled.  Dr. McCreery covered a territory that extended in a ten mile radius around Whittemore.  He often saw patients in Fenton, Lotts Creek and Fairville.  In 1911 he purchased a Model T to replace the horse and buggy which made his traveling much easier.

On November 16, 1901, the McCreerys welcomed a daughter, Ruth Aileen, into the world.  Ruth grew to be a happy and cheerful child with a ready smile. The summer following her fifth birthday, she contracted measles from which it seemed she could not recover.  Despite the best medical care obtainable, she died from tubercular meningitis on August 9, 1907.  Shortly thereafter, the McCreerys moved to another house.  The memories of the home where Ruth had grown up must have been too much to bear.  This would not end up being their last move.

In 1912, the residence of Thomas Carmody came on the market.  Carmody was a cashier for the Whittemore State Bank and active in the community.  This spacious dwelling was built in 1901 at a cost of $2,000.  It was teasingly referred to as the “Blarney Castle” due to its size.  The elegant home contained all the most modern conveniences including steam heat and gas lights.  Located at the corner of Broad and Third Street in Whittemore, it was within very easy walking distance of Dr. McCreery’s office.

The Carmody/McCreery house in 2018

By this time the McCreerys had added another daughter to their family.  Born in August of 1911, Catherine brought new joy to the couple.  Their house was once again filled with the sounds of growing, happy little girl.

To help care for Catherine and the large home, the McCreerys employed area girls as domestics.  The Roeber family had come to Whittemore from Germany.  One of their daughters, Anna, came to live with the McCreerys as a housekeeper.  At around 6 a.m. on Sunday, June 20, 1915, Anna rose and began to start a fire in the kitchen stove.  Mrs. McCreery and young Catherine were out of town and Dr. McCreery was asleep upstairs.  Anna was using kerosene to start the fire.  When the fire flared, flames caused the can to explode suddenly, scattering blazing oil over the girl’s clothing and the kitchen around her.

Anna ran from the home with her clothing ablaze and down the street, apparently headed to her own home.  A neighbor saw her, grabbed a horse blanket and smothered the flames, but not before she incurred horrible burns.  Meanwhile, Dr. McCreery, hearing the commotion downstairs, hurriedly dressed and ran downstairs to find the kitchen on fire and Anna nowhere to be found.  Paying no heed to the fire, he ran from the house to find her.  The firemen were called once Anna had been found.  Dr. Cretzmeyer was called from Algona to assist McCreery in ministering to the patient whose pain and suffering was intense.  There was little they could do due to the severity of her wounds and she died shortly after three o’clock that afternoon. 

Headline from
Kossuth County Advance
June 23, 1915

Sadness once again filled the McCreery household.  They considered the young woman a member of their own family and her loss from an accident that occurred in their home was devastating.  As for their house, damage had been contained to the kitchen.  Although the entire room was charred, it was theorized that it did not spread to other areas of the house because with all the windows and doors shut there was little or no draft.  Dr. and Mrs. McCreery remained close to the Roeber family and another daughter, Emma, would work for them for over 40 years.

It was the next year that Dr. McCreery decided to build an office with a garage on the lot adjacent to his house on the west.  By 1917 he realized that there was a true need for hospital beds in the community and so he converted the garage to a 3-bed hospital.  Nurse Ella Burke was placed in charge of the facility.  He installed the latest equipment including an x-ray machine.  The newspapers are filled with articles of patients who spent time in McCreery’s hospital.  There was seldom a time when the beds were not occupied.

The McCreery office/hospital in 2018

The most difficult years of the physician’s practice were 1918 to 1920 during the flu epidemic which swept across the nation.  McCreery later recalled that he often went 24 hours without meals and 36 without sleep in order to care for his patients. 

Dr. McCreery was known to be utterly honest.  If he felt he could not help a patient he quickly referred them to a specialist.  A physician from Mayo Clinic stated that they had never known the doctor to make an error in diagnosis of a patient.  Quite a recognition for a small town doctor.

Once again tragedy visited the McCreery home.  In November of 1924 Catherine became ill with gastro-enteritis, also known as intestinal flu.  Despite the care and consultation of many area physicians, she died at the age of 13.  Her obituary stated, “No death ever upset this community in such a manner as did the death of this estimable child.  She had a very keen insight into what was right and wrong and always to be found in the right.  There was not a selfish thing about the girl, in fact, she was generous to a fault.  She always wanted to do something for those who were in need.  She was very fond of little children and usually had a few of them around her wherever she happened to be, in her home, on the street, at school.”

On the morning of her funeral, her classmates at the Presentation Academy marched to her home and accompanied the body to the church.  Other pupils lined the three blocks from her home to the church.  Following services at St. Michael’s church, Catherine was buried next to her sister Ruth at the parish cemetery.  It must have been particularly heartbreaking for the doctor who saved so many others but was unable to save his own daughter.

The good doctor was known for his generosity.  He did little to collect what he was owed by widows or young couples with money troubles.  It was estimated that he had over $40,000 on the books during the years of the Great Depression, most of which was forgiven and forgotten.  He had a special love for children.  Every child who left his office received a nickel to buy an ice cream cone. 

As years passed, Dr. McCreery’s own health began to fail.  Diabetes and heart disease took their toll.  In 1944 he suffered a heart attack.  His recovery took four months after which he returned to answering calls any time of the day or night.  His dedication to the community did not go unnoticed. 

Whittemore Champion
September 25, 1946

In 1948 a celebration of his 50 years was hosted by the Whittemore Community Club.  Over a thousand friends and patients turned out to reminisce and congratulate the doctor.  The highlight of the evening was the presentation of a new Buick automobile to him.  During his comments, he stated that he felt as though he could continue practicing another 50 years.

McCreery kept the same pace with office hours from 8 to 6.  He continued to deliver babies and was on call 24/7.  On Tuesday, February 1, 1949, even though he himself was not feeling well, he kept all his appointments and saw all patients who needed his attention.  The following day his own illness forced him to remain in bed.  His faithful nurse, Ella Burke, who had worked for him for over 30 years stopped in to see him.  He sent her to the office for some medicine.  As she approached his bedroom on her way back she heard him breathing heavily and then entered the suddenly quiet room.  Dr. McCreery had breathed his last.

His funeral service was held the following Saturday morning with four priests presiding.  A huge crowd attended with the overflow mourners being seated in the Presentation Academy hall. 

Dr. McCreery was the last resident physician for the town of Whittemore.  The hospital closed along with his office.  His wife continued to live in their large home with Emma Roeber as her housekeeper. Mrs. McCreery quietly passed away on April 23, 1956 after suffering a stroke.

The good doctor left quite a legacy behind.  He delivered over 5,000 babies during his career and lost only five mothers in childbirth.  He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, a director of the Whittemore State Bank and served as a city councilman.  He was also a staunch supporter of the new St. Ann’s Hospital which he did live to see completed.

His obituary contained the following tribute: “Those who profess to know say that no man is irreplaceable.  They are so wrong.  No one will ever replace Doctor McCreery in the affections of the people of this community, nor will a finer physician and friend ever be found in a country doctor.”

Until next time,

Kossuth County History Buff

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Reminder:  The posts on Kossuth County History Buff are ©2015-18 by Jean Kramer.  Please use the FB “share” feature instead of cutting/pasting.