Springfield, Bon Homme Co., SD Centennial Book Part 1 This file contains the full text of the first 45 pages of the book, "Springfield South Dakota Centennial July 1970". Scanning and OCR by Joy Fisher, sdgenweb@yahoo.com Permission to post the full text of this book granted by the editor of the Springfield Times. ===============page 1======================= SPRINGFIELD SOUTH DAKOTA Centennial JULY 1970 1870- 1970 ================page 3===================== Springfield and Vicinity On the banks of the Missouri, rolling down On its serpentine course to the sea In Bon Homme, the county that's bound To be second to none in S. D. 'Mid the beautiful groves that adorn, And the sweet scented fragrance of flowers, By the out-stretching acres of corn, Sitteth Springfield, this city of ours. She is a bud in fair nature's attire, With good churches and schools she is 'Tis the home for the home-seeking buyer, His spare dollars and dimes to invest. On the south, there that swift flowing stream Laves the dust from her beautiful feet, While beyond it are field of dark green, Fenced by bluffs that are rugged and steep. Still beyond is the old Santee Mission, Like some city of mystical lore; Where the Red man has changed his condition, For he goes on the war paths no more. On the east, at the north, and the west, Spreading out, like the billowy main, There the houses, like ships, seem at rest 'Mid the fields of the rich waving grain. Oh, then come to our borders so fair For a home in the beautiful west, We have corn, yes enough, and to spare, And our land is as good as the best. Be ye then no more servants, but lords, Of a full quarter section of soil That is waiting to thrust a reward In the hands that are willing to toil. -By Ira J. Smith ================page 4========================== FORWARD This book has been compiled in the hope of recording for posterity some of the history of Our Town. There are always some conflicting versions of events and that is undoubtedly the case here also. Information was culled from a variety of sources, such as newspaper files, history books, family records and personal reminiscences. Although there may be some disagreement as to dates, name spellings, etc., the editors feel that the gathering together of such a significant amount of the history of Springfield should provide not only interesting reading in the present day but be of distinct service to future historians. This has been largely a community venture, with many persons contributing biographical material, the history of organizations, etc. Through newspaper announcements and personal contact an effort was made to secure as much pertinent material as possible. If there are any groups, pioneer families, etc., who are not represented here, it is because the information was not turned in to the editors. We appreciate the enthusiastic response to the request for old pictures, a total of approximately 1,500 having been contributed. We regret that because some of them were too faded to reproduce properly, and also because of space considerations, it was necessary to leave a number of the photos out of the book. Our thanks to all who assisted in any way in the compilation of this Centennial volume. PRINTED BY THE SPRINGFIELD TIMES ==================page 5============================ [ photo - THESE PHOTOS of early-day Springfield were taken from the water tower. The top picture is looking northeast and the bottom picture northwest.] [ photo - NORTH SIDE OF MAIN STREET in Springfield taken around 1910.] =================page 6=========================== History of Springfield BY DR. DANIEL E. KERR Professor of History, Southern State College From a rolling prairie along a wide, slowly flowing river, inhabited only by buffalo, prairie chickens, high-flying ducks and geese, and an occasional wandering Indian band, to a thriving community of well over 1,200 people, with beautiful homes, attractive churches, excellent schools, a widely known boarding school for Indian girls, and a four year college of excellent quality--this is the accomplishment of ten decades--the romantic saga of Springfield, South Dakota. It is a record of early explorers, rugged pioneers, forward - looking immigrants, industrious farmers, loyal wives and growing families. The dangers were many--Indians, rattlesnakes, prairie fires, drought, grasshoppers, floods, storms, lack of law enforcement and inadequate medical care. They mete frowning area, survived winter's storms and summer's hazards --to build an inheritance for their children and grandchildren. Springfield is located on the Missouri River, in the county of Bon Homme, on land somewhat above the river, and quite generally closed in by gently rolling prairie at a still higher elevation. Lewis and Clark, the early explorers of the West, stopped at Bon Homme Island, in the Missouri River, near Springfield, on September 1, 1804, and were impressed by the beauty of the island and the mainland. It is reported that Lewis and Clark, themselves, with a small exploring party, spent the night in a small ravine immediately north of the site of Springfield. Two towns, Bon Homme and Wanari, in the county of Bon Homme, were laid out in 1860. It is said that Wanari was later changed to Springfield. This move, if move it was, was made in 1862, when Charles Cooper and R. M. Johnson located on the townsite, and the name Springfield was recognized. The name came, it is supposed, from the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Cooper and Johnson built a hotel, which was later torn down and the material moved away, but not until the founders issued a map showing the location of their prospective city. The site of Springfield was entered by John A. Lee and George Lee in 1868 or 1869 (the date is not clear), and Gov. John A. Burbank, fourth governor of the territory, bought it in the latter year and platted it. Ogden Marsh, the first settler, surveyed and laid out the town in October, 1869, moved from Yankton and erected two buildings. As soon as his house was completed he took up residence here with his wife, being the first and only family living on the town site. He was frail of physique, and died April 11th, 1872, only thirty four years of age. His wife became ill with typhoid fever not long after, and joined her husband in death on November 20th, 1872, six months later. In June, 1870, John L. Turner joined the settlement and put in a stock of goods in one of the Marsh buildings, out of which grew the great business establishment of Bonesteel & Turner, known far and wide as one of the best equipped of its kind in the Territory. It was a forerunner of the modern "super-market" or shopping center, and was all that the name implied. Ira J. Smith came in 1870 to help build up the community, and later the same year Lyman M. Judd, Isaac Hawthorne, William Emmons, Philip Steimel, J. E. Russel, Samuel Henderson, Richard Lane. J. C. Thomas and others joined the settlement They were followed in 1871 by L. D. F. Poore, George Mead, Clark W. Rowe, H. A. James, A. F. McAuley, Michel Griffen, E. W. Hall, R. T. Wood, B. H. Wood, and others. Many early settlers came from Holland, and other countries, and their names continue in this area. The first post office in this section of the county [ photo - WHAT WAS APPARENTLY a Fourth of July celebration was in progress when this photo was taken in Springfield around 1900.] ====================page 7=========================== [ photo - "REGISTRATION DAY" parade was in progress when this photo was taken around 1917.] was established on Emmanuel Creek, two and a half miles northwest of the present site, with Nathan McDaniels as the postmaster. The office was moved to Springfield in 1870, and John L. Turner was appointed postmaster, serving until 1878. Conrad Eymer, who came to Bon Homme County in September, 1869, from Kentucky, homesteaded 160 acres of land in the area. As soon as there was a post office in Springfield he received his mail there. The first vehicle Mr. Eymer had, such as it was, was a sort of stoneboat made of timbers. He had one horse, and made a harness out of string and rope. Hitching his horse to the stoneboat he took Mrs. Eymer and Mrs. John Mullegaue, a neighbor, to Springfield "shopping". Mr. Eymer led the horse while the ladies rode-no doubt a rather rough journey. The first white boy born in Bon Homme County (exact location uncertain), was Henry M. Davison, born on January 5, 1870. He lived in Springfield for many years. The first white child born in Springfield was John Hoaglin, born on April 3, 1870. He spent nearly his entire life In the town of his birth, a respected citizen. A United States Land Office was located in Springfield in 1870. Luman N. Judd was its first Register, and Dr. Augersburg its Receiver. The office was in the first building erected in town, and George W. Snow helped to haul the lumber. The building is still standing - now used as a residence. In 1870 George W. Snow and Samuel Henderson, and others, operated a sawmill on the townsite, near the river, and furnished cottonwood lumber for the framework of all the early buildings. Mr. Snow later served as Lieutenant Governor of the state from 1901 -1905. The town was incorporated as a village in 1872, with the following named as trustees: John L. Turner, George W. Snow, and R. T. Wood. It was organized as a city by a special act of the legislature in 1881, and its first city officers were John L. Turner, Mayor; James H. Stephens, V. R. Van Curen, F. A. Morgan and George Heffner, Aldermen; A. T Bridgeman, City Justice of the Peace; A. T. Stille, Treasurer; and F. W. Gassman, Clerk. The business district enjoyed a steady growth. J. L. Turner, who had opened the first store on Sixth Street, and was joined later by H. E. Bonesteel, moved in 1873 to a new building on Eighth Street. Since Bon Homme was already declining as a town, H. C. Davisson & Co., a early store there, moved its merchandise business to Springfield in 1872. George Mead built a fine residence. H. C. Davison followed in 1873, and occupied the hotel built several years before. In 1873 James H. Stephens opened the first harness shop and furniture store. Later he combined with George Mead in the same business. The first newspaper in the county was the "Springfield Times," issued by L. D. F. Poore, in July, 1870. "The Times" is the oldest weekly newspaper in South Dakota in continual publication as such. Although far from the United States proper, and still in a territory, the residents of Springfield were always patriotic. In 1872 the ladies of Springfield suggested that the Fourth of July be properly celebrated with a picnic at Emanuel Creek. What is a celebration without a flag! It was proposed that if the gentlemen would furnish the material the ladies would make the nag. This was readily agreed, and the flag was made by the ladies, in Betsy Ross Style, at home, and was carried at the head of the procession on the parade to the picnic grounds. The committee appointed to make this nag was Mrs. J. L. Turner, Mrs. George Mead, Mrs. Dr. Engle, and Mrs. R. T. Wood, assisted by many other ladies of the community. General George A. Custer, the flamboyant military commander, passed through Springfield with his 7th Calvary about noon, Sunday, May 10th, 1873, on his march to Fort Rice. Camp was made just across Emanuel Creek. Many of the local citizens, families and all, visited them and paid their respects to General Custer. Historians would agree that it were better for the General and his men if they had stayed in Springfield.! A severe grasshopper raid occurred in August, 1874, when thousands, millions, of the greedy invaders attacked the area, with deadly destruction. They remained for three days, harvested the crops and ate =====================page 8============================== up the gardens. Being particularly fond of onions, it is reported that they ate them clean to the ground, and standing on their heads with the worst of manners, ate the bulbs out of the ground, leaving only the holes where the onions grew. The people of the area early dreamed of improved transportation, so essential to contact with the outside world and continued growth. In 1872, according to "The Times", an editorial prophesied that at least two railroads would soon reach the town, crossing the Missouri River by a new bridge, and then proceeding north and west. However, it was not until 1879 when the tracks of the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad reached the area from the east. The tracks were laid about four miles from the town when the iron ran short. The final stretch was completed shortly thereafter, and the first train arrived about November 25, 1879. One can imagine with what pride the citizens welcomed the event, which pointed to a guaranteed future for the growing settlement. The depot grounds, side tracks, etc., a considerable distance from the business district, were laid out and improved shortly after the arrival of the railroad. A well graded road was built by the public-spirited people of the town out to the railroad station. A force of 30 teams was employed, the necessary funds being raised by subscription within 24 hours after it was decided where the depot was to be erected. A "steam flouring mill" was projected in November of 1879, to be erected in the city "within the next 90 days." It did not become a reality until 1881. It was operated until 1913 by J. L. Turner and Son, when it was destroyed by fire. In the summer of 1894, F. A. Burdick erected the original electric light plant, the first in the county. It was a small affair, driven by artesian power, and at first furnished electricity to light most of the business houses and a few of the residences of Springfield. Soon after completion, Mr. Burdick sold the plant to John Wenzel, who operated it for about four years. The plant was taken over by Mrs. Fanny E. Turner, who installed a larger dynamo, gasoline power, and operated the plant until it was sold to the area Light and Power Co. With growing families, and the arrival of more parents with children, the settlers early became interested in education. The first school house was built in 1872, and opened with Fred Wells as the first teachers. A bigger and better school was erected in 1879. The early settlers, deeply religious people, soon felt the necessity of religious worship and church organizations. The first service of worship was conducted in June, 1870, by the Rev. Joseph Ward, a Congregational minister from Yankton, in the land office building. The Congregational Church of Springfield, the first church organization, was created on November 4th, 1871, by the Rev. Stewart Sheldon. The first church building was the Episcopal Church, built in 1878 by the citizens of Springfield and Bishop W. H. Hare, who conducted services himself for several Years. The Hope Indian School for Girls was established by Bishop Hare of the Episcopal Church in 1879. In 1880 it was housed in a hotel built by Governor Burbank, and was moved to a fine stone structure in 1884. It was later sold to the United States Government, later returned to the Episcopal Church, and became in time St. Mary's School for Indian Girls. The Normal School. now Southern State College, was located in Springfield in 1881, and was maintained by contributions of the citizens for several years. It was not firmly established until 1897. Two years before, in 1895, the State appropriated 40,000 acres of public lands to the support of the institution. In 1896-1897 the citizens of Springfield erected a substantial building and presented it to the state. The Regents of Education prescribed a course of study for the school and elected a faculty, and the school was formally opened on October 11th, 1897, with the operating expenses still defrayed by the generous people of Springfield. Although the legislature in 1899 appropriated $6,000 for operation of the school, the legal act was vetoed by the Governor, and the school continued to be supported locally. Finally, in 1901, the legislature assumed full support, appropriating money for operation, and for the erection of buildings. Now Southern State College, it has grown steadily in quality and service to the area and state. As the town grew, with new residences and new business houses, many improvements were made. The main business district originally extended along what is now Sixth Street. Later Eighth Street became the business center. Sidewalks were built on many streets and in front of many homes. The first cement walks were put in in 1895, using Yankton cement. Years followed years as the town grew slowly. Severe winters, hot summers with searing winds and occasional grasshopper infestations-the cycle swung from good years to dry years. The population of the town, never large, grew from 675 in 1910 to 689 by 1925. During the dry years the population fluctuated, losing population in the thirties, and even the forties, rising finally to 1,194 by the census of 1960. The dry years of "The Dirty Thirties" with the hot southern winds powdering and blowing the soil like winter's snow, with little or no crops, caused much hardship. Dust storms, occasional visits by grasshoppers, or similar vandals, came and went. The majority of the people stayed, convinced of "better times to come." By the forties the conditions started to improve, healing rains returned, and good crops justified the staying power of many courageous citizens. In the absence of a bridge spanning the wide Missouri, several ferries early came into operation. Farmers usually took their cattle across by ferry, rather than by trying uncertain fords or swimming the animals across. Records show that the first ferry from Springfield to Santee was put in operation on March 26, 1874, with regular trips made thereafter. Captain Jack Thomas, of Springfield, operated a later ferry. The ferry, "The City of Springfield," was launched on the river on March 19, 1910. Crossings were made in the open-water seasons between Springfield and the Santee Indian Reservation. The service of the ferry increased considerably the "trade area" of Springfield, until the ferry service was discontinued. A ferry still operates at Running Water, ten miles distant, but the thrill of travel by ferry boat, a crossing at Springfield, has been lost! Springfield shared in the turmoil of two World Wars, when many sons, and daughters, were called to the colors, and served in far off lands. In the Second War a bombing range was established on the Missouri River bottoms, and the air was filled with the roar of planes, punctuated by the explosion of bombs, with men training for far more angry fields of action. New highways were built during and after World War II. A new railroad station was built just outside ========================page 9=============================== town in 1956, only to have the railroad withdrawn several years later. A new public school was erected in 1907, with modern additions erected later. A large gymnasium-auditorium was built in 1936. The staff was enlarged to accommodate the increased enrollment. The Pick-Sloan Plan, providing for a series of dams to harness the unruly Missouri River, adopted by Congress in 1944, made Springfield the beneficiary of the damming of the river. The Gavins Point Dam was completed in 1955. This improvement produced the Lewis and Clark Lake, with Springfield the only town located directly on the lake. New areas for recreation, boating and fishing, were thus provided, and a beautiful state park was opened on our doorstep. A wide boat basin, or marina, was added in the spring of 1957 to complete the improvement. A sewage disposal plant, a necessity for a modern community, was put in operation in July, 1957, at a cost of about $80,000. It was a greet day in the progress of Springfield, solving the problem of the disposal of waste, formerly emptied into Lewis and Clark Lake. The project is considered large enough to meet the needs of a city three or four times the present size of Springfield. Another significant improvement was made in 1966, when a modern water treatment plant was constructed at an approximate cost of one third of a million dollars, planned to serve a community three times the present size of Springfield. Water is taken from the lake, softened, with both chloride and fluoride added. The plant, built as a "model" plant, is one of the most modern installations in the state. It is fully automatic, and of outstanding efficiency. It was early recognized by community leaders that the next step after river travel, railroads, and highways, was air travel. After considerable agitation and projection, an adequate airport, about half a mile north of Springfield, was purchased and laid out, being financed by federal, state, and city funds. The formal dedication was held on July 10, 1966. Thus the "air age" came to Springfield. It was a significant advance over the old cumbersome stone boat or ox team of earlier days. Ten Decades of Life! They have been busy years, filled with changes and improvements, that have made Springfield into a beautiful small city, resting in an attractive setting, surrounded by fertile and productive fields. It is a good place to live, to raise a family, and to spend a life time. This is the story of Springfield, South Dakota. [photo - SPRINGFIELD'S NEW POST OFFICE] =======================page 10========================== Churches BETHLEHEM LUTHERAN Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of Bon Homme County, Dakota Territory, was organized on February 1, 1879, by about l2 Scandinavian families who held their services in the various homes until the first cottonwood log church was built about nine miles west of Springfield on land donated by Jacob Erickson in 1886. In January 1942, Bethlehem Lutheran Congregation was given the opportunity to purchase from the Congregational Church Building Association their church at Perkins, seven miles west of Springfield for a very nominal sum, which was unanimously accepted. Olaf Lundin purchased the old building as it now stands on his family's property south of Perkins. Regular services were held the first and third Sundays of the month and for a time Chaplain Martin Tryastad of Yankton State Hospital staff was in charge. The first class confirmed was Anna Erickson and Martin Arneson on July 10, 1881, by Pastor H. O. Opsal. The first wedding was on December 6, 1881, when Anna P. Erickson and Elias C. Arneson, also Marit Evenson and Jacob Erickson were married. The first communion was recorded on October 15, 1878. For a number of years Bethlehem shared pastors with East Lake Andes and West Lake Andes congregations and Pastor H. O. Opsal was the first to serve the church. At the annual church meeting on May 13, 1894, a committee was named to lay out the cemetery plots on land one half mile north of the church donated by Jorgen Magnuson. Later it was doubled in size when Christian Peterson donated an equal plot of land adjoining on the south. The first interment in the cemetery was that of Guri Polson on March 20, 1880. During the years from 1880 to 1968, 14 pastors and several student pastors and lay pastors conducted the services in the little country church until the remaining Scandinavian families decided to come in to the Our Saviors Lutheran Chapel in Springfield. The Ladies Aid was probably organized earlier but the first mention of it in the records was on May 13, 1889. EMMANUEL REFORMED [photo - EMMANUEL REFORMED CHURCH] [photo - THE FORMER CHURCH BUILDING] The Emmanuel Reformed Church was organized on July 19, 1888, with the following 18 members: Mr. and Mrs. U. J. Wynia, the widow E. Dykstra, Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Wynia, Mrs. Richtje Dykstra, Mr. and Mrs. Jouke Boschma, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Shaver, Mr. and Mrs. Lucas Kremer, Mr. William Holleman, Mr. and Mrs. Jan Van Welt, Mr. Henry Wynia, Mr. and Mrs. Minne Abma. The first church was built in 1889, on a one acre plot, one mile south of Perkins, purchased from O. Swenson. The church was 30 by 24 feet. In the years 1902 to 1904 the parsonage was moved to a new location, one mile east and one mile south where a new church was built. The horse barn was also moved, which had stalls for 24 teams. The above church and parsonage was remodeled and enlarged several times to meet the needs of a growing congregation. On January 15, 1954, it was decided to build a new church in Springfield. One half block was Purchased from F. Ashmore, four blocks north of Main on College Street, where the present church is located. The new church was dedicated on July 27 and 28, 1955, and has a seating capacity of 600. Ministers who have served the church are: Rev. John F. Heemstra, Rev. William Stegeman, Rev. Henry Schipper, Rev. Mannes Stegeman, Rev. John H. Tietema, Rev. John W. Brink, Rev. Cornelius Vander Schoor, Rev. John J. Vander Schaaf, Rev. D. J. Kolenbrander, Rev. John W. Hoksbergen, Rev. Paul Vander Woude and Rev. Harold Kammeraad. The first Ladies Aid Society was organized in 1894, and the first Willing Workers Society in 1909. Succeeding the above, the Guild for Christian Service was organized in 1960, which includes three Circles, with a total membership of 80. At present there are 24 S. S. Classes with an enrollment of 240. There are 13 Catechism classes with 176 enrolled. The R. C. Youth Fellowship has 35 members. There is a college group of l5 members. Up to this time three have gone out from the church for full time Christian Service, two as foreign missionaries and one in the ordained ministry. There are now 155 families with 308 communicate =======================page 11========================== members and 278 baptized non-communicate members. A new parsonage was built in 1968, modern design, electric heating and cooling with two rooms in the basement used as S. S. rooms. Total cash receipts in 1969, including the building fund were $46,082.82. METHODIST EPISCOPAL August 29, 1860, the upper Iowa Conference appointed a Preacher to that portion of country lying between the Big Sioux and the Missouri rivers. Rev. S. W. Ingham the young missionary, during his first visit to Bon Homme area, Thursday, Oct. 24, 1860, performed the first marriage ceremony west of the James River. By 1880, many churches had been started; Springfield had services but no official organization until March, 1884, when Superintendent of Church Extension, Mr. Pardee, came to confer with the local congregation. A regular Methodist Episcopal Corporation was formed with the following trustees and officers: Trustees, N. R. Hathway, V. R. Van Curen, C. H. Van Slyke; Secretary, O. A. Harpel; Treasurer, V. R. Van Curen. It was decided to build, with work to be started within six weeks. A modest white frame building, 28 x 50 feet, was erected at 707 - 11th Street, with a pastor's residence in the rear. Around 1910, a large parsonage was built, to the east of the Church. (John Wolff residence now, owned by Margaret Poelstra.) It was sold a few years later, and the house across the street was purchased (John Boschker's home). Some of the ministers were: Rev. J. G. Corwin, M. Clyde, W. S. Wilson, Potter, Webster, Hendrick, Bradley, Kay V. Chaffee, W. Walton and A. Carlyle. Early members included: V. R. Van Curen, John Flowers, N. R. Hathway, C. H. Van Slyke, Chris and George Pegley, George Jones, Billie Thomas, A. T. Bridgeman, Samuel Richmond. [photo - METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH] In 1928, a basement was built under the church, making a recreation and dining room. The first Father and Son Banquet in Springfield was held there. The church served the community until 1934 when, due to the depression and drought of the early '30s, an agreement was made whereby the Methodist Church of Springfield would join the Congregational Church, and reverse the order at Wagner. A Sunday School was continued until about l942 when the building was bought and moved to Kaylor by a German Reform group and is still in use. OUR SAVIOR'S LUTHERAN In March of 1956 the Rev. D. E. Benson of Tyndall began to have regular Lutheran Services in Springfield. These services were held in the Springfield Community Center until the Baptist Church basement was rented in October. The congregation which accepted the name of Our Savior was formed on July 27, 1956, at which time the voting members signed the constitution. The first president was Wayne Remme. The new chapel was dedicated on November 3, 1957, with Professor Lorman Peterson of Springfield, 111., as dedication speaker. The building was constructed by Alfred Stockholm, Jr., of Springfield. Beginning with a very small number the group has grown to over 100 souls and has the responsibility of ministering to over 250 Lutheran students on the campus of Southern State College. Pastors who have served Our Savior's Lutheran Chapel since Rev. Benson accepted a call to another state have been Rev. Robert Feller, Rev. Walter Rose and since 1966 the Rev. Lloyd Hackbarth. Dedication services for the new Lutheran Xristos House at Southern State College were held on Sunday, Oct. 27, 1968, in Montgomery Center. Dedicating the $170,000 facility was the Rev. Reuben Schmidt, Head of the Department of Home Missions of the Missouri Synod of the Lutheran Church from St. Louis, Mo., and Fred Lietz, Head of the Department of Church Extension, also of St. Louis. The dedication was followed by open house and refreshments at the Xristos House. The center provides housing for 24 college men and for Rev. Hackbarth and his family. It also provides an area for study, relaxation and informal worship. "It is the function of the Xristos House," says Rev. Hackbarth, "to provide a setting and program that will invite the campus and community to share in Christian knowledge and fellowship and to equip the 24 men to faithfully demonstrate the Christian faith." The men living at the Xristos House do not have to be Lutheran, he said. [photo - XRISTOS HOUSE] ST. VINCENT CATHOLIC Bishop Martin Marty, as vicar apostolic, came to Dakota in 1880 and organized a bishopric at Yankton where the Sisters also established a convent named after him. In 1889 Bishop Marty moved his episcopal seat to Sioux Falls with all of South Dakota as his =============================page 12 ========================== Diocese. In 1896 Bishop Marty was transferred to St. Cloud, Minn., and the Rt. Rev. Thomas O'Gorman became Bishop. During the period prior to 1880 the Springfield area was served by visiting priests from Yankton. The first wedding to occur in Springfield was that of A. F. McAuley and Mary Griffin with the Rev. Father Sommereisin of Yankton officiating. This wedding as well as church services were held in the Michael Griffin home. In 1880 St. Stephen's Catholic Society was organized with a membership of fifty. A church, 50 by 30 feet, was erected in 1880 at a cost of $2,000 raised by donations. It was located on the north side of Eleventh street on what is now the George Welfl property. The Rev. Father A. Carolon was the first pastor. The Catholic parsonage was begun on February 9, 1881, and when completed cost $1,000. To help raise funds a three-day fair was held on December 13, 14 and 15 of the same year. This fair was the event of the season and ended with a supper and ball with music furnished by a nine piece Bohemian band. Contests were held with the winners awarded prizes consisting of a gold-headed cane, a gentleman's silk hat and ladies' dress hats. Admission to the supper and dance was $1.50 per couple and succeeded in raising $150 for the parsonage. In 1882 Rev. Father Carolon was replaced by Rev. Father Daniel Vincent Collins and the church was renamed St. Vincent's. After this, various priests were assigned to St. Vincent's in the following order: 1882-1887, Rev. B. J. Kelly; 1887-1889, Rev. James S. McKenrick; 1889- 91, Rev. A. O'Hora; 1891-1892, Rev. J. J. Twoohy; 1892 -1893, Rev. Matthias Traynor; 1894-1896, attended from Parker; 1896-1901, attended from Tyndall; 19011903, Rev. J. R. Higgins; 1903-1904, Rev. S. J. McCawliff; 1904-1906, Rev. W. J. Keane; 19061932, attended by priests from Tyndall, Yankton, Platte, Scotland and Tripp parishes; 1932-1941, Rev. J. J. McGrath. On July 25, 1940, a tornado moved the Catholic church about eight feet to the east and tore it apart. A barn and shed at the rear were completely demolished. The City of Springfield purchased the salvage lumber to use in the construction of Community Hall. Most of the altar equipment was saved without serious damage. Because of the shortage of priests in the Diocese as well as the dwindling number of Catholics in the area it was decided to close St. Vincent's. On February 1, 1941, Father J. J. McGrath was assigned to the Mt. Vernon parish. On November 4, 1941, the 40 Year old church from Running Water was moved to Springfield by Mr. Vanderpool of Corsica, using trucks with 24 rubber tires. Since the former site was inconvenient the church was located north of the Swenson factory on the corner of Ninth and Cedar streets. The two lots were donated by Thompson Yards, Inc. Father Krause of Tyndall looked after the remodeling of the church which was used for funerals and weddings. Sunday Masses were held in Tyndall and an arrangement was made with Hugh McNeely for bus transportation. From 1941 to December of 1969 the spiritual needs of the people were fulfilled by the priests of the Tyndall parish with Masses in Tyndall. The Springfield church was torn down in 1966. At the present time the Catholics of Springfield are served by Msgr. Leonard F. Zwinger and Rev. Robert A. Beck of Tyndall. Masses are held on campus for the Catholic students attending Southern and for the 40 Catholic families residing in the Springfield area. There is an active Newman Club and Altar Society with the children's CCD classes conducted by various mothers in their homes. [photo - ST. VINCENT CATHOLIC CHURCH] UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, CONGREGATIONAL The Springfield United Church of Christ, Congregational church had its origin in the ministrations of Rev. Joseph Ward, who afterward founded the Yankton college. Rev. Ward conducted the first service in Springfield in 1870 and held meetings at intervals later on and the church was actually organized on November 4, 1871, by the Rev. Stewart Sheldon, who at that time was superintendent of the Congregational work in Dakota. This is the fifth oldest church of the Congregational denomination in the Dakota. Only the churches at Vermillion, Elk Point, Yankton and old Bon Homme were older than Springfield's. The first service was held in the government land office in the southeast part of town, a building later remodeled into a dwelling on Sixth street, now the property of Mrs. Nellie Oldewurtel. Like all pioneer churches, this one had a precarious existence for several years. Meetings were held irregularly in any empty building, such as a tin shop, the lumber yard and in the homes. Rev. Stewart Sheldon was at that time doing general missionary work in this locality and had this field under his care. When the church was organized in 1871 under his supervision there were seven charter members, Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Hitchcock, Mrs. Phoebe Wood, Mrs. Serapta Mead, Mr. George Owens, Mr. I. J. Smith and Mr. H. J. Smith. This was the first religious organization in the community and the first Congregational church in the county. In March, 1872, Rev. G. N. Binks was chosen pastor of the new organization and remained on this field for about a year. Then Rev. Sheldon again took up the work, continuing until October, 1874, when Rev. C. L. Hall was chosen as pastor. He was the first resident pastor and served until 1876. Following Rev. Hall came Rev. Robert Kirk and Rev. James Beckman who served the church for a brief period until in 1881 Rev. Charles Seccombe arrived to take charge, after having seen his church on Green Island, Neb., swept down the Missouri river in the great flood of that spring, caused by an ==========================page 13====================== [photo - UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, CONGREGATIONAL] ice gorge below Yankton. Rev. Seccombe served as pastor of the church for nearly 18 years and then continued to reside in Springfield after his retirement. Following Rev. Seccombe, Miss Emma Henry served for a few months until Rev. D. J. Perrin came in 1899 and preached here until 1906. He was followed by Rev. E. C. Ford, who remained until 1910. During the time of Rev. Ford's service here, the Bon Homme Memorial church severed its relations with the Tyndall church and became affiliated with the Springfield church and Rev. Ford also served that congregation as did ' also Rev. A. C. Warner who followed Rev. Ford in 1910 and served-until his retirement 35 years later in 1945.-He, like Rev. Seccombe, continued to reside in Springfield after retirement. In 1945 came Rev. Samuel Cushing to serve for five years' and in 1950 came Rev. B. J. Trickey to serve the community 'for 12 years. He retired in 1962 and was followed by Rev. Calvin Hay, who served until 'February, 1967, to be followed by the present pastor, Rev. Robert Owen in October, 1967. The first effort toward securing a house of worship was made in the summer of 1874. However, the coming of the grasshoppers that year made it necessary to give up the idea of a building for a time. It was not until 1880 that the effort was renewed. In the meantime a group, the Campbellite church, had partially constructed a building, but due to their small membership and lack of funds the organization was given up and the building offered for sale. Through the trustees of the Congregational church, I. J. Smith, W. W. Benedict and John Fry, made the purchase of the building as it stood and it was completed in the following year and the dedication service was on October 1, 1882, end this was the first home of the church. Soon this building, being too small for the growing membership, was remodeled and enlarged and a bell tower and bell added, also a furnace. Later this building became part of the residence owned now by Mrs. Theresa Martin. In 1901 lots were purchased adjoining the church and the parsonage building was erected. Again in time this old church gradually became too small for the rapidly growing congregation and during the ministry of Dr. Warner, on August 15, 1920, the cornerstone was laid for the present brick building and on November 6, 1921, the basement, being completed, was first used for services. Services continued in the basement until 1926 when the building was completed and dedication services were started on May 16, 1926, and continued throughout the week until May 23. Early in 1964 the need was stressed for more room for church school classes and activities and the possibility of building a new educational wing was discussed at various meetings. At a meeting on December 5, 1965, it was voted to accept bids and to proceed with the construction. The ground breaking ceremony took place at noon on Sunday, March 13, 1966, and the building was placed in use in November. Dedication service was on Sunday, Jan. 15, 1967. On Sunday, Dec. 18, 1966, Rev. Calvin Hay tendered his resignation as pastor, effective on January 29, 1967. For several weeks Dr. Ralph Hoffman kept the pulpit supplied with interim speakers. Rev. Phillip Anderson conducted the morning worship on Sunday, April 30, and immediately after the service a unanimous vote favored calling Rev. Anderson as pastor. But Rev. Anderson did not come to Springfield. At a meeting which followed the Sunday, July 9, 1967, morning worship service, with Rev. Robert Owen in the pulpit, it was voted to accept him as pastor of the church. Since Rev. Owen prefers to reside in his own residence, which he purchased, the church parsonage was sold last fall by the board of trustees. [photo - EPlSCOPAL CHURCH] =========================page 14=========================== Schools SOUTHERN STATE COLLEGE Southern State College at Springfield was established as Southern State Normal School by Territorial law in the year 1881 but was not opened until October 11, 1897. The land on which the buildings stand was donated by Hon. John A. Burbank with the understanding that, if the school should ever be abandoned or its purpose changed, the land would return to the original owner or to his heirs. The first building erected was built in 1896 by the citizens of Springfield and community, who donated of their time, money, and effort. This building is now the west wing of the Main Building. In the year 1901, a number of influential citizens of Springfield were instrumental in getting the State Legislature to appropriate money for the erection of the rest of the Main Building and Summit Hall, the women's dormitory. Among the men who were active in securing campus buildings were James H. Stephens, J. L. Turner, George W. Snow, and E. J. Monfore. From this time forward the school took on new life until in 1912 State appropriations were made for the erection of Science Hall and the Central Heating Plant. Although Southern continued to widen its service to the State and enrollments expanded to overflowing, from 1912 until 1939 all efforts to secure added building facilities failed. In 1939, President W. A. Thompson, with a committee of faculty members, arranged for the building of an addition to Summit Hall under a P. W. A, federal, self-financing plan. This new structure added 36 student rooms and doubled the size of the dining hall. In 1947 the state legislature changed the school's name to Southern State Teachers College. The next year the college took a momentous step end established a vocational education curriculum. In 1964 the legislature changed the name of the institution again, this time to Southern State College. From time to time new buildings have been constructed and improvements made in others until at present Southern is one of the finest and most attractive schools in the state. In the past few years new construction has included dormitories, a dining center, library, vocational - technical center and more buildings are on the drawing boards. During the period 1897 to the present, the college has had eight presidents and two acting presidents. They were in order: J. S. Frazee, 1897 to 1907; Dr. G. G. Wenzlaff, 1907 to 1918; Arch Crawford, acting president, 1918-19; Dr. C. G. Lawrence, 1919 [photo - THE WING at the left of this photo was the first structure erected on the Southern State Normal campus.] [photo - THIS PANORAMIC VIEW, believed to have been taken about 1915, shows the Southern campus in the background.] ==========================page 15===================== to 1933; Dr. T. A. Harmon, 1933 to 1934; Mrs. T. A. Harmon, acting president, 1934 to 1935; W. A. Thompson, 1935 to 1945; Dr. J. Howard Kramer, 1945 to 1954; W, W. Ludeman, 1954 to 1962; Dr. Allen Millar, 1962 to the present time. Aside from the many subjects in the curriculum, students of the school have been given opportunity to participate in various intramural and intercollegiate sports, music groups, speech, dramatics, student publications, social organizations, departmental clubs, etc. Southern is authorized to grant a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, and a Bachelor of Science degree, as well as a certificate in the terminal vocational programs. The college holds membership in and is accredited as a baccalaureate degree granting institution by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools and the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education. Southern also holds membership in the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, the International Council on Education for Teaching and the National Association for Business Teacher Education. [photo - AERIAL VIEW OF SOUTHERN STATE COLLEGE CAMPUS] [photo - EARLY FOUNDERS DAY PARADE] ========================page 16============================ [photo - THIS PICTURE, taken during the winter of 1968-69, one of the worst on record in the Springfield area, shows a corner of Montgomery Center, Southern's cafeteria, at the left:, and Ludeman Hall, men's dormitory, at the right.] [photo - VOCATIONAL-TECHNICAL CENTER AT SOUTHERN STATE COLLEGE] =======================page 17=========================== [photo - THIS PHOTO of the Springfield public school was taken on June 12, 1890. J. W. Whiting was principal and Mary Seccombe assistant principal.] SPRINGFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS The first school in Springfield was not very large and was moved to various locations. Annie Griffith was the teacher in 1872 and the building was rapidly completed for her by D. R. Martin. At the annual meeting in 1872 officers elected were John A. Lee, trustee; Fred Culver, treasurer; Ira J. Smith, district clerk. Tax of 1/2 of one per cent was voted for teacher's wages and the same for fuel and repair. A few of the teachers who followed her were: 1873, Sylvia Tyler, who later married George Snow, and Addie Perkins in 1875. They had an enrollment of around 30 pupils. In 1879 a two-story brick building was put up at 11th and Walnut street where the south part of Digerness trailer court now is. Normal was started here, the upstairs of this brick building was used till the townspeople had main hall built in 1897. There was one teacher for each floor, the first five grades on the first floor and 6 to 10 on the second floor. After the new Normal was built the grade school was called the Model school on account of student teachers. During the earlier years of the school it was unorganized, and the teachers placed each pupil in such classes as they thought he was fitted for. In 1887 Prof. Ramsey became head of the school and made it a graded school with ten grades. The first commencement exercises were held in May, 1888, with two graduates, Henry and John Davison. John died in 1917 and Henry celebrated the 50th anniversary of his graduation by presenting the diplomas to the graduates in 1938. In March, 1885, James H. Teller, secretary of the [photo - SPRINGFIELD HIGH AND AUDITORIUM] [photo - ELEMENTARY SCHOOL] ========================page 18============================== territory of Dakota, designated the school as an Independent School District. The Board of Education then was composed of Rueben Groot, George Mead, J L. Turner, E. J. Monfore, F. A. Morgan and A. T. Bridgman. In 1907 the building was considered as being unsafe and school was dismissed if the wind blew as they were afraid it would fall down. In 1909 the present middle part was built at a cost of $10,500, and was used for grade school as high school grades went to the Normal. In 1925 a high school was needed as after that no high school work was offered at the college. Mrs. I. J. Smith offered to donate a half block of ground north of the city park for a new building but the board decided to build an addition onto the present building to save cost and maintenance. It was two stories with a basement for $20,115. In 1936 work was started on the present gym auditorium. After the building was built a benefit dance was held there for everyone to have a chance to see the building. The proceeds went to help pay for the furnishing of the auditorium. In 1963 the present grade school was built on to the north part of the old grade school that was built in 1909. HOPE SCHOOL In the autumn of 1879 Bishop Hare established Hope Mission as an industrial boarding school for Indian boys but later also admitted Indian girls. Bishop Hare chose Springfield for his school because it was located between the Santee and Yankton Indian Reserves. The International hotel, which was being run by John Mead was rented. It stood on the northeast corner of the block of the present location of St. Mary's School. In 1888 it was moved to the corner west of the Times and was used as a store room. Under the able direction of the Rev. Abdiel Ramsey, principal; Mrs. E. E. Knapp, housemother, and Edward H. Dawes, teacher, the institution proved the wisdom and foresightedness in Bishop Hare's program, especially in the training of girls, to which it was limited in later years. After four years in a building which afforded no conveniences and only scant accommodations, a plea was made for a new building. Springfield, which was but a village, gave a whole block of land and $900.00 towards a new building. Friends in the east and various churches and organizations sent bedding, clothing and money, while special gifts paid for the girls' dormitory, "The Langdon Dormitory," and for the "Coleman School House," which bore the names of their donors. The new building was begun in the spring of 1884. It was built of chalk stone on a lime foundation. A new barn was also erected but was destroyed by a prairie fire in 1889. In the fall of 1884 the teachers and pupils moved into their new building. Miss Fanny E. Howes came replacing Mrs. Knapp as principal and Maud Knight and Miss M. E. Musser were teachers. In January a measles epidemic hit the school and proved fatal to three students. Another trying time was when the temperature was 40 degrees below zero, and the building heated only by stoves, with water having to be hauled from the river, they fought an epidemic of whooping cough, influenza and pneumonia. When but two teachers remained able to be on duty the good women of the town came to their aid. [photo - THIS BUILDING at one time housed the Hope School and later St. Mary's High School for Indian Girls.] In 1889 under the supervision of Rev. and Mrs. Wicks, 50 boys and girls were enrolled. They came from rude homes and could speak only the Dakota language. Each child was supported by a wealthy person or society in the East. In September of 1894 the attendance at Hope School was limited to girls and the boys were taken to the St. Paul School at Yankton Agency. In May, 1895, it was necessary to close the school as a mission school because of the gradual withdrawal of government aid from denominational schools. In September, 1899, the government purchased the school and C. L. Davis became the new superintendent. Miss Hilton was principal and remained there for 24 years. The attendance was light due to the difficulty of getting supplies and making changes. Miss Jones joined the school faculty in 1899. On May 1, 1900, the children gave a May Day exercise and entertainment on the lawn, which ended with a May pole dance which later became an annual affair, held near the date of Bishop Hare's birthday. Supt. Bradford was in charge of the school during the 1900-01 term. Rev. W. J. Wicks, who had been superintendent before, returned to Hope School and remained for several years. In June, 1920, the government closed the school and the equipment was divided up and sent to other government Indian schools where needed. An auditor from Washington came and supervised the disposal of the household effects. The reason for closing was that the enrollment was less than 100 students. On July 1, 1923, the school was transferred to the Episcopal church and the name was changed to St. Mary's. The old Hope school building was torn down in 1961. In its place a beautiful new brick building was erected and is called St. Mary's School for Indian Girls. ST. MARY'S SCHOOL When Bishop Hare came to Dakota Territory in 1873, there were no schools for Indian children. The need for schools was very clear and Bishop Hare wrote, "My visit to the Indian Territory and my study of the Indian problem in my own geld, convinced me quite early that the Boarding School ought to be one of the most prominent features of our missionary work." In the first year of his episcopacy, he founded St. Mary's School. The school was housed in a part of the mission building at Santee directly across the Missouri from the present site of St. Mary's. There were 20 ======================page 19========================= [photo - ST. MARY'S SCHOOL FOR INDIAN GIRLS] girls from eight to 15 years old. In 1884, the school was destroyed by Ore. After the fire, the school continued temporarily in the building vacated by Hope School at Springfield. In 1885, a new school was erected on the Rosebud Reservation. At Rosebud, the school grew and flourished. The academic program included reading, writing, arithmetic and geography, but the greatest emphasis was still placed on domestic skills. Such training earned the school a fine reputation, for as Bishop Hare stated, "one can pick out a St. Mary's girl wherever she goes in the Indian country by the kind of home she keeps." In August, 1910, St. Mary's was again destroyed by fire and work continued in nearby barracks until a new building was ready for use in November of the following year. The school continued to grow in its service to the Indian people for whom it stood as a monument to the determination of their church to continue its ministry among them. It was an outstanding example of Christian teaching and Christian living that everyone, regardless of his mastery of English or his ability to read, could see and respect and follow. In the opinion of Bishop Burleson, St. Mary's was largely responsible for the strong Christian community which grew up among the former heathen Indians of the Rosebud. In April, 1922, St. Mary's was burned for the third time, the main school building being completely destroyed. Again, there was no doubt that the school should be re-established. But the time had come for a vital change in the location and goals of the school. The life of the Indian people had changed greatly since the foundation of the school at Santee. The old way of life was lost and the new generation, largely English speaking and Christian, was eager to leave reservation life. Government schools offered an industrial education but failed to provide an academic, economic, and social training, which would prepare children for working and living in a normal American community. With this purpose in mind, St. Mary's was reopened in the old Hope School building at Springfield in September, 1923. In 1928, the school was granted a certificate of accreditation by the State of South Dakota. From this time until the present the school has maintained accreditation and offers a college and general curriculum. Special emphasis is placed on Indian history and culture. Since 1955 an extensive building program has been in operation. Nothing is now left of the old Hope School or other buildings. In 1956 Roberts' Hall Dormitory accommodating 50 students was completed. A new dining hall, kitchen, gymnasium and heating plant for an entire school building were completed in 1959. The classroom building was completed in 1961 and in 1962 the first section of a new dormitory was begun. By 1967 the second section of the dormitory, home economics center, laundry, faculty and housemother's apartments were completed. The most recent addition is a new library which was ready for the school year 1969-70. St. Mary's school's enrollment is limited to 85 students who are carefully selected from over 100 who apply annually for admission. Students are accepted in grades 5 through 9 and the student body represents many Indian tribes and sub-tribes, many religious denominations, and about 15 states. Non-Indian students are considered but in recent years because of a waiting list of girls of Indian descent, none has been accepted. St. Mary's School is not interested in numbers but in individual students who are deserving of the special kind of training which the school offers and who are capable of using that training to the advantage of their own people and to the society in which they live. Students are selected on the basis of character, scholastic ability and potential and never on the basis of their ability to pay tuition. All students are expected to pay what they can towards the total cost per year-the remainder of which is found from the Episcopal Church; National Society, Daughters of the American Revolution; National Society, Children of the American Revolution; patriotic and civic organizations and thousands of individuals. The school receives no support from state or federal sources. Almost all St. Mary's School graduates continue their education and the school continues to provide financial support for those in need, St. Mary's graduates are found all over America and over half have gone back to help their own people as nurses, teachers, social workers, civil servants, and active church members. The number of students graduating from college has increased considerably in recent years. The school's greatest need is for scholarships which make it possible for students to attend. Such gifts vary from $25 to $1500. ============================page 20============================== Organizations AMERICAN LEGION Dwight Wood Post No. 132 of the American Legion was named in honor of Edwin D. Wood, commonly known as Dwight Wood. He was the youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. E. D. Wood of Springfield and grew up and was educated here. Early in 1917 he went to Everett, Wash., to work with his brother, E. V. Wood, in the lumber business. He joined the army in October, 1917, and was sent to France in December, 1917, as a member of Co. L. 26th. Infantry of World War I. His mother received word from Washington, D. C., on August 27, 1918, that her son had been wounded on July 19, 1918. It wasn't until January 15, 1919, that she received the news of his death which occurred on July 20, 1918, at Chateau Thiery, France. His burial place has never been definitely established by his family. On November 28, 1919, the Dwight Wood American Legion Post was formally established with 46 charter members, who were: Hazel Anderson, Maurice Babcock, Clarence Boschma, James Maurice Cooley, Ernest A. Crockett, Fred Dawes, Carlton DeMelt, Roy Dempster, Pierre Fisher, Orval Foster, Samuel Henderson, George Henderson, Albert J. Hennies, Joseph Jones, Lloyd Kesselring, Frank P. Kibble, William Kirby, Floyd Mattox, John Sidney McCarthy, William I. McCollum, Vaughn McMillan, Loring Melick, Howland Monfore. Leo Nash, Frank O'Donnell, Michael L. O'Donnell, Reginald W. Kibble, Walter J. O'Donnell, Roy E. Oelrich, J. Milo Pattee, William Slattery, Frank Snow, James Rudolph Sorenson, Frank Teeters, Oscar Thompson, Thomas A. Thompson, Chester Truesdell, Clarence Tucker, Wallace Tucker, Lewis Turner, Shelby Turner, William Turner, Emil J. Uken, Johannes Uken, Joel Wallace, Robert Walpole. At the meeting of the Post on January 22, 1920, the members adopted a constitution and by-laws and elected officers for the ensuing year. Walter O'Donnell was the unanimous choice for post commander but as he was leaving soon for the west he resigned and Orval H. Foster was then chosen as the first post commander. Others elected were Reginald Kibble, post adjutant; Frank Snow, post finance officer; William Kirby, Post historian; Pierre Fisher, post chaplain; Fred Dawes, E. A. Crockett and Walter Turner, elected to the executive committee. Walter Turner, Shelby Turner end Howland Monfore were appointed as a committee on entertainment. Senator Stephens was present on request and made a few impromptu remarks for the benefit of the post, and incidentally offered the use of the city hall as a meeting place during his term as mayor. The offer was accepted as a temporary home. After organizing, the Legion sponsored Boy Scouts for a few years. They also send a junior boy from the public school every year to Boys State. In 1950 the members had a Post home built for their meetings on College street, where they still meet every fourth Tuesday of the month. When the Legion observed its 50th anniversary, Frank Teeters and Sam Henderson of Springfield and George Henderson of Naples, Fla., were honored with 50 year pins, being the only three members keeping up their membership since the Legion was organized. Gold Star boys who were killed in World War I were Edwin Dwight Wood, Peter J. Ferwerda, John Palsma, Elmer James Spurrell, Robert H. Sorenson; World War II Gold Star boys were: Walter E. Babcock, Robert Bartholomew, Edward Glover DeLong, Joseph L. Elwell, William Montgomery, Jake Den Ouden, Allen W. Palsma, Jack LeRoy Rich, Paul Stephens, William (Billy) Crawford and Lawrence Owens. Korean Gold Star boy was Peter Monfore. Viet Nam Gold Star boy was William Monfore. B. H. COUNTY PIONEER ASSOC. By the end of the 19th Century, a group of "old settlers" decided it was time for them to meet together to review the events of the past and learn what to expect of the future. Their first meeting was held in Tyndall in 1900. By 1901 they appeared as a full-fledged organization with officers, a constitution, by-laws and a plan for the future. They voted to call the organization, "The Bon Homme County Pioneer Association". No one wanted to be considered an "old settler"; but there was a thrill about being a "pioneer". At first only those people who came to the county before 1880 were eligible for membership. You had to pay just 25 cents; you received one of those handsome gold pins and you were a member for life. The pioneers decided to have a public meeting once a year in the fall, to which everyone would be invited. It was to be sort of a Harvest Home Festival, hosted by different towns and participated in by the whole county. There was a parade in the morning followed by a special program with speeches and musical numbers. Then came that picnic lunch! From the beginning free drinks were served by the town. At first it was tea and coffee, but soon lemonade was substituted for tea. After lunch there was another program with entertainment features. At these programs some of the "old timers" talked. They enjoyed doing it At one meeting Tom Tait spoke up after a polished address by Sen. Robert Gamble. He said in effect: "I may not be able to speak as well as our senator, but when I do talk, I tell the truth." That remark brought down the house. In those early years they were able to have such capable and interested speakers as Major Robert Dollard of Scotland, Bartlett Tripp, Robert Gamble and L. B. French of Yankton and their own brilliant attorney James D. Elliott. Prizes were given at these early meetings, too the oldest native son, the youngest child, the first to be born in the county, etc. At one time they offered a prize to the person who wore the oldest suit of clothes. After the afternoon program there were sports: races, baseball games, free street performances and at night often a band concert and a dance. This general pattern for celebrations continued for nearly 20 years. Along with these gala celebrations the pioneers =========================page 21========================== carried on their research and plans for preserving the past. In the beginning they concentrated on proving that the first log cabin built for school purposes in the vast Territory of Dakota was erected in 1860 in Bon Homme County. At the time there were people still living who helped to build the schoolhouse. There were "grown up" pupils who attended that early session. One of them was Delia Rounds (Mrs. W. T. Williams) who made a drawing of the schoolhouse as she remembered it and helped to contact people who could vouch for its existence. Once the pioneers had proof, they made plans to erect a monument. Money was raised by interested individuals and by school children. Even while working on this project some of the people realized the importance of getting out a history of Bon Homme County. By 1922 there was published that little green book with a drawing of that first schoolhouse on the outside and a picture of the monument within together with short articles on the different towns and some of those forgotten post offices in the county. Today that book is in demand by the writers of history. All along through the years the Pioneer Association has been interested in seeking out historic sites and having them properly marked. In this project they have been quite successful but in the preservation of records they have fallen by the wayside. Often they have talked about having records made of the speeches and other events of historic importance but nothing has been done. In 1964 when a board of six directors came into being to promote the organization an attempt was made to have reports of happenings in each area together with one biographical sketch recorded in the bulletin which made its appearance in 1965 as "The Bon Homme County Pioneer". This bulletin has been published every year since 1965. It contains in addition to area news, feature articles on some phase of history. If bound together these bulletins might become permanent records. No history could be complete without mentioning the years of dedicated service of some of the pioneers. Mrs. Carrie Bixby who served as historian for over 30 years holds the record. Mrs. Cora Gilliland was secretary for 12 years. Mrs. J. O. Duguid and Mrs. H. M. Davison each served eight years in the secretary's office. There were other people from Springfield who held that office for shorter periods. Before the rule for having the vice president automatically become president went into effect, George W. Snow served some six years as president. Offices were held for shorter periods by people within the Springfield area: J. H. Stephens, president and historian; J. L. Turner, president and leader in promotion projects; F. P. Brooks from Running Water; B. H. Wood, H. M. Davison, John H. Kirk, P. G. Monfore, Sampson Thomas, Maurice Babcock, John Ludens, E. B. Dwight, to mention a few. In addition to A. C. Warner speakers were recruited from Southern: G. G. Wenzlaff, T. A. Harmon, W. A. Thompson, H. S. Stein, J. Howard Kramer, W. W. Ludeman, Allen Millar. Springfield has also hosted the association for the greatest number of years. Of the 66 pioneer meetings held during the years, 37 of them were in Springfield, 18 in Tyndall, four in Tabor, three in Bon Homme, two in Scotland and two in Avon. There have been forward and backward movements in membership and audiences. In the beginning there were 105 members, which equals if not exceeds the membership today. The audiences too have varied in size and interest from 1,000 attending a special program to 14 attending a regular meeting. Space will not permit the writing reports of many interesting meetings. They have been varied in form and sometimes in intent. In the first decade two programs at Bon Homme, one in 1910 for the dedication of the monument and one in 1912 for the completion of the fence and platform, deserve to be mentioned. Both were held under a large tent near the monument. The 1910 celebration was on a cold, windy day in September, yet there was said to be an audience of 500 persons. The usual program was carried out with a musical chorus from Springfield, speeches from prominent school authorities, entertainment by the Bon Homme young people and a baseball game. It was a pleasant day in 1912 with an audience of 700 persons and Col. John Jolley of Vermillion as the principal speaker. In 1915 the meeting was held in Tyndall for the dedication of the new court house with F. A. Morgan as president and Judge Elliott as speaker. There was a big celebration in 1939 on the anniversary of South Dakota's becoming a state. It was held in the park in Tyndall. Many relics were displayed; many "old timers" attended. The whole town cooperated with window displays. Carl Mundt was the speaker. Mrs. Bixby put out a Supplementary edition to the Tyndall Tribune and Register with articles and pictures of pioneers. It was estimated that 1,500 persons attended. Twenty gallons of coffee and 30 gallons of lemonade were consumed. In 1948 an interesting program on "Country Doctors" was presented with entertainment features. In 1953 a meeting was held at the Bon Homme church and churchyard. Antiques were displayed in the church where a meeting of interested pioneers was held. The picnic dinner was under the tent. At 1:30 p.m. the "Pageant of Bon Homme", in which representatives from the different towns took part, was presented. Over 1,500 persons attended. After 1953 a little more attention was given to the history of the county with talks by W. O. Robinson, state historian. In 1956 the meeting was held on Sunday for the first time, also in 1957 in the hope of having a larger attendance. In 1959 a review pageant of 60 years was presented with episodes from the different towns. In 1960 and 1961 programs on centennial of first schoolhouse and Dakota Territory. In 1963 a special program by the Indians, some of whom were descendants of the early inhabitants was presented. From 1965 to 1969 the association met in Tyndall and tried out evening meetings for this busy generation. There have been antique displays, pot luck suppers, renowned speakers and special music. In 1970 the pioneers return to Springfield. We are 70 years old and hope to keep on living by bridging the gap between the old and the new. -Hazel B. Abbott, Historian BOY SCOUTS The Boy Scouts were active in Springfield in 1912 with Rev. R. B. Hughes as Scoutmaster. A short time later the troop was disbanded until September, 1924, when it was reorganized with L. J. Ward, superintendent of schools, as Scoutmaster, and the American Legion was its sponsor. In October. 1936, the Rotary became the sponsor =========================page 22============================== of the Scouts with John Cole as Scoutmaster. Rotary committee was E. B. Dwight, W. W. Ludeman and Jud Kibble. At the present time Rotary is still sponsoring Scouting with Howard Nichelson as Scoutmaster. CONTEMPORARY CLUB The organizational meeting of the Contemporary Club was held on March 6, 1967. Officers elected were Mrs. Owen Schmoll, president; Mrs. Joel Hanson, vice president; Mrs. Marion Holter, secretary, and Mrs. Norman Schelske, treasurer. Other charter members were Mrs. Virgil Petrik, Mrs. Don Baker and Mrs. Lester Livingston. The object of the club is to unite all women of Springfield who are interested in community spirit, concentrated study and social advancement. The club helps promote community projects and has held a babysitting clinic, donated children's books to the city library and has taken an interest in the city's appearance by planting flowers in West Side park. As of 1969, there were nine members, with the officers being: Mrs. Robert Tjeerdsma, president; Mrs. Virgil Petrik, vice president; Mrs. Lester Livingston, secretary, and Mrs. Charles Thomas, treasurer. DAKOTA CLUB Dacota club, a member of the National Federation of Women's Clubs, was organized November 4, 1946, as the " Nufu Club" with a membership of eight women. Mrs. Earl Wilson was president. Other members included the Mesdames Ben Aho, H. A. Deckert, Duane Walpole, Jack Martin, J. Merlin Gass, Nona Baer and Alice Leech. The name of the club was changed to Dacota club the following April. Monthly meetings include varied programs of guest speakers, book reviews, travel films, music, health and safety and topics of current interest. Many outstanding projects have been undertaken, some of which have been continued on a yearly basis. One of the latter is a tea honoring the high school seniors and their mothers, begun in 1951. In 1952 a welcoming committee was initiated which has welcomed to the community approximately 350 newcomers. In 1953 they helped organize CIC, whose initial project was remodeling the kitchen in the Community Hall. A biennial clinic for the immunization of smallpox, tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough for grade school children was begun in 1954. Other worthy projects have included gifts and correspondence to local servicemen and women, gifts to St. Mary's, State Hospital, Abbott House, North Star Mission and Care, books to the public school and city library, oral polio clinic, canvassing for March of Dimes, Heart Fund and Mental Health, sponsoring youth canteen, sponsoring a girl to Girls State, Youth Fun Fest, UNICEF, Community beautification, sponsoring Contemporary Club, Westside Park improvements, Community Art Show, donation of $800.00 to swimming pool fund, TB Clinic. Money for these projects has been raised through bake sales, benefit card parties, soup suppers, coffee hours, Times subscription drive and rummage sales. 4-H CLUBS County Extension Work started in Bon Homme County in about 1919 with the first recorded County Agent being M. O. Monroe. 4-H Club work had its beginning about 1925 with two 4-H clubs being formed with 22 members. These were girls clubs working with Home Extension Members. County Agent L. V. Ausman and Anna Kaiser, Home Agent, worked with nearly 300 youngsters in 1929 and 1930 when 4-H became very active in the county. Most clubs were project clubs where they worked entirely on one of the main projects of clothing, foods, swine, dairy and other livestock projects: A few of the names of 4-H leaders involved with the first 4-H clubs are as follows: (Many of the addresses are not known) Mrs. J. Becker; Mrs. E. Page; Mrs. Holleman; Mrs. Blecker; Martha Talsma; Mrs. O. Metz; Mrs. Mary Jacobs; Mrs. Millar; and Jeanette Palmer. The first 4-H Achievement Days were held in 1928 at Tyndall. GIRL SCOUTS The Organizing of Girl Scouts here was in 1934, for a short time with girls from St. Mary's school as members. Girl Scouting was again organized here in 1966. GOODWILL EXTENSION CLUB The Goodwill home extension club of west of Springfield was organized at the home of Mrs. Hans Lukkes in November, 1945, with Betty Dawson as County Home Agent at that time. Three of the charter members, Mrs. John DeRoos, Mrs. James Lundin and Mrs. Herbert Walkling, were honored in December, 1969, as 25-year members. The present officers are Mrs. Garrit Holleman, president, and Mrs. Jerome Odens, secretary. JOB'S DAUGHTERS The dream of organizing a Job's Daughters Bethel in Springfield was visualized on May 15, 1954 with the assistance of the Yankton Bethel and the Grand Guardian, Garnet Lapeath. On September 13 the members exemplified their work before the Grand Guardian and Grand Secretary, Flossie Larson, and obtained their charter. The Bethel has been in operation since 1954 with the installation of all the officers every six months. IOOF LODGE The establishment and organization of the Springfield Lodge, No. 7, I. O. O. F. took place on Saturday evening, Dec. 11, 1875, at the International Hotel. An application for a charter of disposition to the Right Worthy Grand Master of Dakota, the Hon. Ezra W. Miller, having been granted, the time for the organization and installation of officers was set as above. The following constitute the charter members of the Lodge: H. A. James, John R. Petrie. T. B. Eagle, =====================page 23========================= E. L. Bushnell, George W. Snow and L. D. F. Poore. October 13, 1881, the Odd Fellow building was moved to Eighth Street. A new glass front and roof were added, and the lower room fitted up for a store. This building was torn down in 1966 to make room for the Tap Club which was erected by Lloyd Wollman. LEGION AUXILIARY The Women's Auxiliary of the American Legion Dwight Wood Post No. 132 was organized on May 22, 1920, with 16 charter members, at a meeting held in the City Hall at 8:30 p.m. This meeting was held for the purpose of perfecting a temporary organization of the Women's Auxiliary of Dwight Wood Post No. 132 until a charter could be issued. The following temporary officers were elected: president, Mrs. Mary E. Wood; vice president, Mrs. Sybil Foster, secretary, Mrs. Hattie E. Dawes; treasurer, Miss Erma Brown. On June 8, 1920, when the charter was first applied for, there were 55 members and the temporary charter was received on July 12, 1920, and on July 20, 1920, was accepted at a meeting held at the home of Mrs. Eva Davison, also the constitution and by-laws were adopted. At the same time the temporary officers previously elected were re-elected to serve for the balance of the year and it was voted the local dues were to be $1.00 per year, per member. Mrs. Alice Turner, Mrs. Rose DeMelt and Mrs. Minnie Monfore were elected as the executive committee. Amendments to the constitution were voted on January 24, 1922, July 22, 1924 and November, 1923. All through these 50 years the Women's Auxiliary has been very active in community and civic affairs, also in service rendered to those in the Armed Forces, veterans in hospitals, Americanism, child welfare, Girls State and junior activities and national service. Many times they have received state and national citation awards for meritorious service and quota awards. Meetings are held once a month, on the second Thursday. There are now 46 members and the present officers are: president, Mrs. Anna Dawes; first vice president, Mrs. Delores Dempster; second vice president, Mrs. Virginia Dwight; secretary, Mrs. Mary Paulson; treasurer, Mrs. Mabel Uken; executive committee, Mrs. Anna Dawes, Mrs. Delores Dempster, Mrs. Virginia Dwight and Mrs. Mary Paulson. MERRY MADAMES CLUB The Merry Madams home extension club started during the late summer of 1946 when a few ladies met at the home of Mrs. Cornelius Hornstra for the purpose of organizing such a club in Springfield. Mrs. Hans Lukkes, a member of the Goodwill club west of town, met with the group and explained the program and workings of the home extension clubs. Temporary officers named at this time were: Mrs. Harry Mathews, president, and Mrs. V. C. Gilliland, secretary. Among those present for this first meeting were, besides the hostess and the officers named, Mrs. Hudson Hornstra, Mrs. Lou Palsma, Mrs. Ella Adamson, Mrs. Arnie Alver and Mrs. John Slattery. Home Agent Miss Betty Dawson met with the group later. Officers elected at a later meeting were: Mrs. Harry Mathews, president; Mrs. V. C. Gilliland, vice president; Mrs. John Slattery, secretary- treasurer, and Mrs. John Decker, reporter. Good Luck was chosen as the name for the club. Other members added to the club included Mrs John Huitema, Mrs. John Wolverton, Mrs. Jackson; Mrs. Frank Matejousky, Mrs. Richard Martin, Mrs. Carvel Cooley and the membership grew until there were 34 members-too large to continue the meetings in the various homes, so the group requested and was granted permission to meet in the community hall. In the meantime the group decided to change the name of the club. Several names were suggested, among them being Wilhelmina, for the queen at Holland. A vote by ballot gave the majority in favor of Merry Madams as the name. Officers at present are: Mrs. Robert Slade, president; Mrs. Carvel Cooley, vice president; Mrs. John Uken, secretary-treasurer, and Mrs. Cora Gilliland, reporter. MINI-WORKERS 4-H CLUB The Mini-Workers 4-H Club was organized January 13, 1969. Don Boone, the county agent, was present and helped set up the plans. Six members were enrolled--five boys and one girl. They are as follows: Jerry, Stan and Leland Tjeerdsma, Bryan and Brenda Nagel and Ivan Ludens. Jay and Harlan Tjeerdsma joined the club October 6,1969, making eight members in number. The 4-H club leader is Mrs. Gerald Tjeerdsma with Gerald Tjeerdsma, Mr. and Mrs. John M. Nagel, and Harold Ludens as assisting leaders. Charlene and Allen Bierma, and Ann Stacey were the Junior leaders for the 4-H year of 1968-69. Charlene Bierma is the Junior leader for this year 1969-70. MONDAY CLUB Monday Club celebrated its 50th Anniversary at the 39th annual meeting of the 3rd District of South Dakota Federation of Women's Clubs in l955. Decorations appropriate to the occasion were chosen by the Dacota Club, honoring the Monday Club which had sponsored Dacota Club's beginning in 1945. " protect Your Heritage" was the theme of the celebration. This the Monday Club has done for 65 years. With limited membership, and meetings held the third Monday evening from September through April, the Club still follows the same principles upon which it was founded study, service and fellowship. Since its rather unique beginning when 11 ladies responded to a notice appearing in the Springfield Times in March, 1905, which read `'Ladies who are interested in forming a study circle to study the lectures of John L. Stoddard please meet at the Rectory, Friday afternoon, March 24th, at 4:00 o'clock," study has been the purpose of the group. Federation in 1917, and eagerness to serve, led to participation in Penny Art Fund, International Peace Garden, the Memorial Art Center at Brookings, sponsoring students to music camp, and many similar projects. Members have held office on all levels in the Federation as well. At home, Monday Club has been a strong supporter of C.I.C., helping in the establishing and equipping of the Community Hall, the improving of West Side Park, and aiding in the swimming pool project. The establishment of the library, and the ========================page 24======================== erection of street signs were projects originating from Monday Club. Combined efforts with Dacota Club have sent students from St. Mary's School to Girls State. The present members pay tribute to those who served well in the past. How truly grateful we are to them for this great heritage. We are the link between the past and the future. What a privilege to be a link! May we prove to be a strong one! MT. ZION LODGE The following excerpts are taken from the minutes of Mt. Zion Lodge, No. 6, A. F. and A. M. On February 17, 1875, the Grand Lodge of Iowa City, Ia., issued a dispensation for the purpose of organizing Mt. Zion Lodge No. 346, U. S., in Springfield, Dakota Territory. This meeting was held at Wood's Hall on April 20, 1875. (In mid-September 1875, the Lodge became No. 6 of South Dakota.) The Charter members and officers were: B. E. Wood as Master, J. S. Turner as Senior Warder, Daniel W. Niles as Junior Warder, H. F. McHulley as Treasurer, George Mead as Secretary, B. H. Wood as Junior Deacon, and Edwin Benedict as Tyler. February 1895, Charles Hill and George W. Snow were appointed to process the pictures of Past Masters. January 1900, C. M. Keeling was appointed the first committee of one to confer with all parties interested regarding the building of a Hall and report at the next regular meeting. February, 1901, it was moved and seconded that we accept the use of the electric lights, at five cents each per night when used. Stock issue authorized in the amount of $4,000 with six per cent interest payable annually for new Hall on June 30, 1906 with J. Kirk as Master. August 21, 1906, the corner stone was laid with the WMGM, R. H. McCoughey present. The first regular meeting was then held November 24, 1906, in the new Hall. January 1, 1907, a 99-year lease was issued on the stairway. The 26th of that same month a light was authorized for in front of the Hall with "AF & AM" and other appropriate symbols to guide members. (This light was to come from one of the many river boats and hung in its place until the 1960s.) Ice cream and cake were served to Masons, families and O.ES. after dedication of the new Hall, May 29, 1907, with WMGM, R. H. McCoughey as speaker. Iron shutters were ordered for the east windows to reduce the fire insurance. April 1914, a sewer is being built in front of Hall, cost to Lodge $25. May 1914, Mt. Zion was invited to attend a banquet in the new Hall of Bon Homme Lodge at Tyndall. At a meeting in 1916, J. L. Turner, in behalf of Edwin Benedict, a Charter member of Mt. Zion No. 6, presented this lodge the sword he used as the first Tyler of the lodge. (The sword has the date of September 4, 1862 inscribed on it.) Saturday was the meeting date until the by-law was amended to Wednesday evening on or before the full moon until September, 1918, then second Wednesday of each month. Members in Service were exempt from paying dues. October 16, 1918, "No meeting on account Spanish Influenza Epidemic, by Order Board of Health". In a Times article of May 15, 1919, the following report was made: An interesting incident occurred at the regular meeting of Mt. Zion Lodge. ..Mr. John L. Turner made a little speech in which he told of the making of the original furniture of the lodge by Mr. Thy E. Wood in 1874. This furniture included the three gavels made out of black walnut. . He had made this winter, during his residence in California, three gavels, which he now wished to present to the lodge. . .The new gavels are made of true Masonic woods, the heads being made of olive wood, and the handles of acacia; they have been turned in most artistic design by the workmen employed by Mr. Turner, and represent much time and labor of love upon the part of the giver. There are many more incidents that could be told during the past 95 years of existence, but this report limited itself to the early years of the lodge. Mt. Zion still has an active membership. PERKINS LYDON AID After 48 years of service in the community, the Perkins Lydon Aid held its final meeting and disbanded at the home of Mrs. William Thomas on February 9, 1956, ending an active career of 48 years. This society was organized at the home of Mrs. Grace Dykstra, 11 miles west of Springfield, on August 27, 1908. Mrs. Brown, wife of the pastor of Lydon church, organized the Aid. The constitution was adopted and officers elected as follows: Mrs. Brown, president; Mrs. Cornelius Hornstra, vice president; Mrs. Edward Fitch, secretary; Mrs. Frank Teeters, Sr., treasurer. The work committee was Mrs. Dirk Woudsma, Mrs. Henry Dykstra and Mrs. Rink Boschma; social committee, Susie Dykstra, Addie Dykstra and Minnie Bouma, and the other members were Ella and Maude Hartman, Edith Dykstra and Grace Dykstra, making 12 members in all. This society continued to be active until 1923 when it closed down for a while until Rev. and Mrs. Isaacs came to the field to take over the churches at Running Water, Perkins and Kingsburg. The Lydon church, which had met in the Dahlenberg school house, united with the Perkins church under the name of the Perkins Lyden church. The Lyden church was so named by Dirk Woudsma after a church in Holland. Those were the days of horse and buggy travel when distances meant more than they do today. In 1924 Mrs. Isaacs reorganized the society, naming it the Perkins Lyden Aid. This society has given 48 years of service and the members feel that it has served its purpose. Some of the members will continue their service with the Springfield Congregational Women's Fellowship. RACHEL CHAPTER This history of the Order of the Eastern Star is not complete and many members who have faithfully served Rachel Chapter for years are not mentioned simply because of space. These notes are gathered from the individual histories of each Worthy Matron and the 75th anniversary booklet. Those who signed a Petition for a Dispensation to organize an Order of the Eastern Star at Springfield, South Dakota, selected Mrs. A. M. Snow, Worthy Matron; Mr. Charles Hill, Worthy Patron; Mrs. Fannie Turner, Associate Matron; Mr. J. E. Ritchey, Secretary; Mrs. Viola E. Keeling, Treasurer; Mrs. Mary Hill, Conductress; Mrs. Henrietta Stephens, Marshal; Miss Belle Mead, Organist; Mrs. Ella Stoddard, Adah; Mrs. Emma C. Benedict, Ruth; ========================page 25========================== Miss Ella T. Ritchey, Esther; Mrs. Sarepta L. Mead, Warder; and Edwin Benedict, Sentinel. They met at the Hall on April 23, 1891. In discussing appropriate names for this new Chapter, Mrs. J. H. Stephens suggested the name of her baby daughter, Rachel, which name was chosen. It was voted to hold regular meetings "the first Tuesday on or before the full moon." The Charter members were: Mrs. Alberta M. Snow, Charles Hill, Mrs. Fanny Turner, Mrs. Mary J. Ritchey, Mrs. Ella Stoddard, Mrs. Sarepta L. Mead, Mrs. Henrietta Stephens, Mrs. Viola E. Keeling, Mrs. Mary W. Hill, Mrs. Emma C. Benedict, Miss Belle Mead, Miss Ella T. Ritchey, George W. Snow, John L. Turner, Dr. C. M. Keeling, George Mead, J. H. Stephens, J. E. Ritchey, Edwin Benedict, C. E. Stoddard. On May 13, 1899, Elizabeth Chapter at Tyndall was instituted by Worthy Grand Patron George Snow, with the assistance of Rachel Chapter. One candidate was balloted on, elected, and initiated; the members of Rachel Chapter conducted the ceremony. In April, 1901, the Chapter voted to install electric lights in the near future. The Worthy Matron appointed a committee to confer with the Masons in either renting or building a more commodious room in which to hold their meetings. The Chapter paid their first electric light bill in January, 1902. October, 1905, the subject of a new Masonic and OES Hall was discussed. In March, 1906, George Snow told of plans that the Masons suggested for the building of a new Masonic Hall. Dr. Williams spoke of the laying of the cornerstone of the Masonic building on July 31, 1906. The first OES meeting was held on November 26, 1906, in the new Temple with Mrs. Belle Duguid, W. M. In January, 1907, a new carpet was on the floor at a cost of $193.30. May 9, 1911, a reception was held for Lt. Gov. and Mrs. George Snow. Rachel Chapter reported 79 members on April 20, 1912, and on January 21, 1913, a growth to 142 members was reported. The Chapter purchased the piano from Joe Whiting for $175 in 1916. It was suggested by the W.G.M. in 1917 that the OES members do Red Cross knitting during Chapter meetings. Rachel Chapter voted to adopt a French War Orphan in 1918 and again in 1919. The 30th anniversary of the Chapter was observed on May 10, 1921. Five Charter members were present. That same year, Roy Trowbridge made a new ballot box which cost $7.50. In December, 1922, dues were raised to $1.50. In December, 1926, P.G.P. George W. Snow was presented a quilt made out of the badges he had received from various organizations he had attended by his daughter-in-law, Daisy Snow, W.M.; the occasion was his 84th birthday. In June, 1927, it was reported that Mr. Snow "took the quilt to the Grand Armery of the Republic and to the Grand Chapter; he was very proud of it". On May 12, 1931, the 40th anniversary was observed. Three Charter members were present. The first mention of oyster stew being served by the men of the Chapter at the December meetings was recorded in 1931. In December, 1934, Irene Fender and William Hartman presented a large picture frame to hold the pictures of Past Matrons and Past Patrons, the idea fostered by Ernest Echelberger. The January 12, 1937, meeting recorded that "George Boschma walked in for Chapter as the roads were too bad for even a horse to travel". The Golden anniversary was observed on May 13; 1941, with Mrs. Azalia Buck, W.M.; ' some members came dressed in costumes of styles 50 to 90 years ago. Gifts were gold hankies. Dr. Keeling was the only Charter member present". The 75th anniversary was observed in 1966. Mementos of by-gone days were displayed around the Chapter room and some of the officers wore garments of the Gay-Nineties era. Rachel Chapter has had a number of Grand Chapter Officers over the years. The list includes: Mary Hill, Grand Chaplain, 1893; Alberta Snow, Grand Martha, 1894; Henrietta Stephens, Grand Electa, 1895, and Grand Treasurer, 1896; George Snow, Worthy Grand Patron, 1898-99; Eva Davison, Worthy Grand Matron, 1904; Charles Bixby, Worthy Grand Patron, 1913. The past six years Life Memberships have been granted to. Mrs. Blanche Fitzler, February, 1964; Mrs. Rachel Stephens Davis, October, 1964; Mrs. Daisy Snow, April, 1966; Mrs. Maude Fites, May, 1966; Mrs. Lulu Rich, September, 1966; Mrs. Eva Dinkel, May, 1969; and Mrs. Florence Goodenough, December, 1969. ROTARY CLUB Paul Harris was the founder of Rotary in 1905 and adopted an emblem shaped like a wheel. On December 23, 1969, there were 14,013 Rotary clubs and estimated 660,500 Rotarians in 148 countries. The Springfield club was organized on Monday, June 30, 1930, with the following charter members: William F. Baack, Johannes Bordewyck, Charles Keeling, Ralph W. Cooley, Henry M. Davison, Morris M. DeJong, Ed L. DeMelt, Ed B. Dwight, Chris Dingel, Steven Flavin, Leroy O. Ginerich, George W. Henderson, Alexander C. Warner, Walt W. Ludeman, Urban W. Holleman, William A. Poelstra, John W. Turner, Joe H. Wallace, Robert E. Walpole, Harley Ketcham and Owen H. Williams. Some of the community projects sponsored by the club over the years include scholarship loan fund, oil and gravel streets, swimming pool, Terrace park, Marsh monument, street signs, house numbers, flower boxes, organizing the Golden Agers club and sponsoring Boy Scouts and Cubs. Special nights include Farmers night, Rotary Ann Valentine party and Rotary picnic. Meeting places over the years were the Grandview hotel, over the Times office, Sinclair residence (Schelske home now), St. Mary's school, boat basin, Montgomery Center and Community Hall with the College Cafe and Coral Lanes serving. In 1967 the club was matched with the Farrow, England, club and tape recordings were exchanged. First president was John W. Turner. Other presidents were: John W. Turner, Roy Gingerich, Carl G. Lawrence, Dr. C. M. Keeling, W. W. Ludeman, Wm. A. Poelstra, Oran J. House, Rev. Alex Warner, Robert Walpole, Morris De Jong, H. Harold Goodenough, Steve Flavin, Glen Ruby, E. B. Dwight, William Baack, John N. DeRoos, E. R. McClure, C. E. Henderson, Lee DeBoer, John W. Decker, Milton E. Burgi, Harvey Van Beek, Maurice Babcock, Art Tschetter, Dr. Wendell Kessler, Cassius Gould, William Hartman, Delbert Fitzler, Rev. Ben Trickey, Elmer Gemar, Ivan Echelberger, Sampson Thomas, Don Moriarty, John Martin, Norman Kibble, ========================page 26============================ Alan Paulson, Julius Sandvick, Donald W. Dwight, Henry Holleman, Glen Peterson, Owen J. Schmoll. SOROSIS CLUB In December of 1923 11 Springfield ladies met to organize the Sorosis Club. Meetings were to be held each month at 1:00 o'clock beginning with a luncheon followed by a study program. Mrs. Vira Crawford of Spearfish and Mrs. Robert Walpole of Vermillion were charter members. Mrs. Winnie Holleman of Springfield joined the club in September, 1924, and has been a member continuously since then. The club was organized as a study club but through the years has assisted with many community projects, such as, the Red Cross, March of Dimes, Mental Health, Children's Homes in South Dakota and funds for swimming pools. At one time the members joined with other clubs to plant trees at Westside Park. Memorials have been given to the Marit-Jane Home. Sorosis Club still meets the first Tuesday of each month from September through May for a dessert lunch and a study program. SPRINGFIELD BRANCH OF AAUW The Springfield Branch of the American Association of University Women was organized at the home of Mrs. H. H. Goodenough on May 22, 1929. Charter members were Mrs. Ben Fender, Mrs. E. B. Dwight, Miss Alice Leech, Mrs. Lulu Spilde, Mrs. H. H. Goodenough, Miss Bessie Johnston, Miss Marian Hardy, Mrs. Ralph Cooley, Mrs. W. F. Jacobs, Mrs. Lawrence Jones. The memorable event of the year was a visit from Badger Clark, South Dakota's poet laureate. A class in French reading led by Miss Marian Hardy and reviews of outstanding novels were programs in the years 1930-1933. Marionette shows and the sale of magazine subscriptions were means of fund raising during the 1940's. Books and copies of the Springfield Times were sent to servicemen during the war years. Mrs. John R. Kirk, Mrs. Flora Harmon and Mrs. Murray Kirk were three members who received awards for poetry, short stories and art work in the late 1940's. The Eleanor Ray Fund was established at the SSTC library in 1955 to honor Miss Ray, a former member and SSTC librarian. A Flora Harmon memorial block was purchased for the National AAUW building in Washington, D. C., in 1958. In 1960 a counselor's training course for dormitory proctors and counselors was a major project. In 1965 a used book sale was begun and is still being continued on a yearly basis. National AAUW cookbook sales are also being conducted. In 1966 boxes were sent from the branch to a VISTA established trift store in Monte Vista, Colo. This was done in connection with the study topic: "Education An Antidote to Poverty." Teas for senior girls at SSC are a bi-annual event. The branch also co-sponsors a girl from St. Mary's Episcopal Girl's School to Girl's State each year. Throughout the years AAUW has stressed study programs with topics covering a wide range of areas of concern to women. AAUW has also been active in studying and backing various legislative issues on local, state and national levels. SPRINGFIELD CEMETERY ASSN. The Springfield Cemetery Association was founded July 9, 1881. The ten acres were bought from Geo. W. Snow, who was chosen as the first secretary of the association. Mr. C. S. Rowe was elected president. The original price of a 12 x 24 lot was $10 and half lots were $5 each. All those who had given to the original purchase of the land were given a lot free under the new organization. The original cemetery board consisted of: John Fry, F. J. Smith, J. E. Russell, J. C. Klemone, George Mead, A. F. McAuly, Clark S. Rowe (president), J. C. Hutton, J. L. Turner, Geo. W. Snow (secretary), John Todd, W. C. Grant, J. H. Stephens, V. A. Vancouver, Geo. W. Bond. SPRINGFIELD 4-H CALF CLUB The Springfield 4-H Calf Club was organized here in May, 1928, with a membership of 58 and J. H. Bordwyk as its leader. It was easily the 1argest club in the state and club advisors believed it was the largest dairy calf club in the entire United States. SPRINGFIELD FIRE DEPT. BY C. E. HENDERSON When the City of Springfield was organized in 1870 one of the first things that the citizens of the new town thought of was the dangers of fire, so one of the first things that they did was to organize a Bucket Brigade to help control fires, as there was no water system and the new town was at the mercy of prairie and building fires. The next step was the drilling of an artesian well which was dug in 1890. The second well was drilled in 1893 and also a water main was laid at the same time. This gave the town its first real fire protection. The city then purchased its first hose cart and hose. The Fire Department was organized August 21, 1893, with the following officers elected: C. Hunn, chief; A. W. Webb, assistant chief; E. L. Culver, secretary; H. M. Davison, treasurer. The hose company elected the following officers: Con Hunn, foreman; Orren Truesdell, assistant foreman; Ed Culver, secretary; H. M. Davison, treasurer. In June, 1895, a tower was erected north of Bonesteel and Turner's store and the department became equipped with a fire bell as old as the county, coming from the Episcopal Mission Church at Santee. The church had been wrecked by a storm in 1870 and the bell cracked so the firemen purchased the bell for a trifle. On June 16, 1896, the department received another bell with a history, when Oran Truesdell and R. M. Radway went with team and wagon to Ft. Randall and brought back the bell from the Old Church and Odd Fellow Lodge Hall at the Fort. At this time the Fort had been abandoned and squatters were stealing anything they could haul away and the federal authorities became convinced the property should be abandoned. The caretaker, Mr. McLaughlin, sent word to the Normal here that they could have the bell if they would come get it. The 36 inch steel bell, weighing 550 pounds, was then placed in the belfry of the old city hall on Chestnut street where it was used to call meetings of different organizations as well as the fire department at the time of a fire. About 1949 the bell was moved to the water tower where it still hangs. Fire Chief in 1901--Peter Monfore to 1902. ===========================page 27========================= Fire Chief in 1902--W. J. O'Brien to 1911. Fire Chief in 1911--Pat McCarthy to 1912. Fire Chief in 1913--Walter Marvin to 1918. Fire Chief in 1919--Wm. B. Owens to 1942. Fire Chief in 1942--C. E. Henderson to 1962. Fire Chief in 1962--Ivan Echelberger to 1967. Fire Chief in 1967--John L. Palsma to present time. EQUIPMENT: Hose Cart--1893. Chemical Cart. First truck, Model T Ford, 1925. First pump centrifugal front end pump, 100 gallons, 1928. Second truck, 1928 Buick with the front end pumper mounted on front, carrying ladders and other equipment. Third truck, 1937 V-8 Ford with a Luverne Body and 200 gallon pumper purchased by the Rural Division and the City of Springfield in 1944. Fourth truck, 1950 Ford V-8 purchased by the Rural Division with a 200 gallon pump, with a Luverne Body. Fifth truck, 1959 V-8 Luverne, city pumper with a 500 gallon pumper. Sixth truck, Rural Division Ford Brookings, 1,000 gallon tanker, 1960, 200 gallon pump. Ambulance received in 1960 from Pat Crosby. 1942 Firemen put in cement floor in old fire station. 1943 Firemen put in overhead door on station. 1945 Firemen changed to National Standard Thread. 1959 New Fire Station 1966 New water plant and new water system put into use. Over the years of the 1940s to the 1960s numerous pieces of equipment have been purchased such as fog nozzles, resuscitator, gas masks, carbon dioxide and powder extinguishers, and numerous pieces of minor equipment. A program of training and drills was also set up with drills slated for once a week, and a rescue squad was organized with Red Cross and extensive training in rescue and ambulance service. SPRINGFIELD LIBRARY ASSN. The Springfield Library Association which was organized in 1872, met in annual session at the office of C. S. Rowe December 27, 1882. Membership was $5, which could be paid in books by anyone wishing to enter the Association, volumes number nearly 200 of standard works. Officers for coming year are G. W. Snow, President; H. A. James, Vice President; C. S. Rowe, secretary and librarian; George Mead, Treasurer; and J. H. Stevens, H. A. James, George Mead, C. S. Rowe, and George W. Snow, trustees. Library was to be removed from its former location to the office of the new librarian. W.C.T.U. The W.C.T.U. was an active organization in this community. It was organized in 1874 and disbanded a few years ago. [photo - OLD TIME BALL TEAM] ==========================page 28================================ Businesses DOWN THROUGH THE YEARS "The International Hotel has been leased by its present proprietor, E. W. Wall, Esq., to Keeler and Dan McDaniels, who are to take possession immediately". (July 18, 1872) They sold to Jos. Barker and John W. Smith on October 17, 1872. Business houses changed hands of ownership frequently, some as often as several times each year. More permanent nameplates on Eighth Street began to appear as the decades passed. Roster of business places of August, 1875, included: J. L. Turner, postoffice, stage and express; R. T. Wood, attorney; L. D. F. Poore, attorney; Dr. G. W. Ira, physician and surgeon; land office, Poore receiver and L. N. Judd register; H. C. Davison, International machinery; Captain Jack Daily, Springfield Ferry Boat; H. E. Bonesteil, groceries and dry goods; James Stephens, furniture and harness shop; E. A. Davison, stables and livery barn; Niles and Setyler, livery and horseshoeing on 7th St.; John Fry, stoves and tinware; H. A. James, pine lumber, on 8th St.; S. Henderson, mill. The summer of 1882 found these boosters conducting the daily trades on Main street in Springfield: J. H. Baskin, Mead House Hotel; V. R. Vancurren, blacksmith; Day and Williams, attorneys; B. H. Wood, meat market; Charles Carlin, MD., physician; H. A. James, hardware; James and Cochran, millinery store; Bockwell and Morgan, 9th and Main lumber yard; L. Schwerdtman, general merchandise; C. H. Berry, M.D., physician; Bonesteel and Turner, drug store; J. E. Russell, saloon; E. W. Monfore, groceries; Mrs. M. E. Love, Springfield Hotel, Main and 8th St. and more of the men who had started earlier in the history of the town. During the 21st year of the Springfield Times (1891) more businesses joined the roll call. Included after each name in parenthesis is the founding year of the establishment: E. W. Monfore (1881), groceries and drugs; Stephens and Mead (1873), harness, furniture, contracting agents; Samuel Henderson (1870), saw mill, jeweler and clocks; J. L. Turner (1871), drug store, cigars and sporting goods; Snow (1869) and Groot (1883), real estate and bank; Dr. Keeling (1888), medical doctor; S. F. Smith (1891), restaurant and confectionery; T. E. Stanley (1881), blacksmith shop; J. H. Wise (1891), barber; Magnuson and Whipple (1891), farm machinery and hardware; Fred Culver (1871), livery stable and busline; Conrad Hunn (1876), meat market; R. Mullinger (1886), attorney-at-law; John Brown, dray line and ferry to Santee; M. L. Young, painter; J. M. Clock (1887), contractor and builder; Miss Lindsay, millinery shop. With the turn of the century came increased river traffic and greater movement of commercial goods. This had a direct bearing on the growth of commerce in the towns located on the river. Springfield felt this surge of growth in additional business places opening at this time. Some of the additions were: Fullerton Lumber Company. W. B. Robinson. manager; City Livery Barn, F. W. Monfore; Morgan and Colburn, building supplies; "The Store," P. H. Johnston; Veldsma Brothers, contractors and builders; Springfield House, Mrs. E. A. Wood; Springfield Hardware Co., Sherm Thompson; Dr. J. O. Duguid, physician and surgeon) Dr. J. H. Bridgman, dentist; F. A. Smith, piano dealer; E. E. Aney, grain and livestock dealer; Herbert Wilson, piano tuner and repair; T. F. Flavin and D. W. Flack, real estate, loans and collections; The Star Bakery, Frank Sparks; restaurant in the bakery, Mr. Hansmann; W. J. O'Brien and B. F. Smith, shaving parlors; O. F. Truesdell and Arthur Hitchcock, contractors. This decade saw the beginning of many of the organizations that helped to shape the future of the town of Springfield, Business Men's Association, volunteer fire department, telephone company and Springfield Light and Power. Along with the periods of faster growth came trials and troubles such as the great fire in the J. L. Turner store in 1913, and the many business failures during the first two decades of the 1900's. The coming of the automobile brought a new surge of business as is seen in listings of the business houses in 1919: E. A. Crockett was selling Paige cars; Lloyd Patterson, Dodge; Patterson and Turner, Lexington (Minute Man Six); Hoff Garage, Oldsmobile; Piper and Poelstra, “The Palace Meat Market"; Fred Dawes, general trucking; Frank Musilek, harness maker; M. J. Young, painter; Mrs. C. C. Johnson, corsetiere; F. E. Schlagel, Thompson Yards; Jacob Hoff, Springfield Opera House; Mr. Bush, Central House Hotel; O. H. Foster, Fullerton Lumber Co.; W. A. Marvin, Light and Power Plant; Henderson and Turner, "Excelsior Clothing Store"; Harry Mathews and LeRoy Trowbridge, dray lines; T. N. Treat, attorney; J. W. Fitzler, grocery store; Nettie Truesdale (later D. B. Stevenson), "The Elite" clothing; Lee Michel, Michel Hardware; Monfore and Young, furniture and musical instruments; Dr. J. G. Ebeling, veterinary; O. B. Slasor, grocery store; George W. Snow, Bank of Springfield; N. J. Brockmann, First National Bank; Chas. B. Zeek, Farmers Coop Association; R. J. Walpole, Baldwin pianos; Wesseling, hardware and implements; A. A. Wortley, bus line; F. G. Rempke, cream station; G. F. Buche Co., general store. Times changed through the years as quoted by a local barber, Earl Stephenson, in 1928, "In the nineties, I remember we used to shave a man, wax his mustache, comb his beard and his hair, all for a dime. There were many styles of whiskers in those days and the wearers were always proud of them." Some of the very first buildings on Main (8th) street are still in use as business houses today. For example, the Hugo Bauer Building on the south side of 8th street was built for a saloon in 1871 and leased for $20 per month. It was built by a man named Burkland. At one time Mt. Zion Lodge was located on the second floor. The building downstairs remained a saloon until O. B. Slassor converted it into a cafe in 1923, and later it housed a grocery store, which was operated by Hugo Bauer from 1948 until 1959. In 1965 Mr. Bauer remodeled the building to accommodate the present barber shop and beauty shop. The Tyndall Creamery Co. opened a cream and supply station in Springfield in June of 1928. Theo Wynia was the local manager. The Texaco Company opened a service station on the corner of 8th and Chestnut in July, 1928, with Joe Uken as the local ========================page 29============================ manager. Other business houses listed at this time were: Service Garage, Ray Young; H. M. Davison, garage; Truesdell Co., novelties; Morris DeJong, hardware; Henderson and Turner, clothiers; S. B. Gelfand, general merchandise; Dr. C. M. Keeling, MD.; Dr. J. O. Duguid, M.D.; Poelstra and Son, meat market; Grand View Hotel, Ted Jackson; J. W. Fitzler, grocery; Holleman and Walpole, Drug Store; J. H. Bordewyk, general merchandise; Walter Ritter, cafe; Springfield State Bank, E. B. Dwight; J. H. Wallace, grocer, Northwestern Public Service Co.; Springfield Telephone Co.; Chris Dinkel, bakery; Sam J. Henderson, produce station; Keller Bros., garage; Stephen Flavin, insurance; Thompson Yards, lumber, W. E. Schmidt, mar.; P. G. Monfore, furniture; Holleman Motor Co., Ford cars; Earl Stephenson, barber; E. E. Echelberger, barber; Strand Theatre, C. E. Henderson; Charles Higgins, blacksmith; Chris Pegley, shoe shop; Dr. J. J. Glasier, M.D.; Dr. O. H. Williams, dentist; Dr. J. G. Ebeling, veterinary; E. E. Empey, lawyer; J. S. Huitems, painter; Springfield Cleaning Works, W. P. Smith; G. Hatwan, pool hall; M. J. Wagner, Hotel (south of Main St.); Harry Matthews, auto livery; J. N. DeRoos, Standard Oil bulk agent; Hatchery, Sidney Huitems; shoe repair shop, L. R. Elwell; W. Turner, Life Insurance and Essex and Hudson car agent. Pat McGoldrick, who operated the ferry at Springfield to Santee, Nebr., from 1904 to 1929, decided to move his operation to Vermillion. This ended the era of direct connection between Springfield and Santee. Montgomery Ward opened a trial store in Springfield for a time in May of 1931. This is by no means a complete listing of the business houses, nor all the men and women who took part in the building of the Main Street of Springfield, but is a cross section of the different businesses that were one time located within the city. The trials, troubles, and the effort to overcome these were the everyday problems of pioneer businessmen and women. They worked together to build the sound foundations from which many of the present day business establishments have grown and prospered. CORAL LANES BY SAM J. HENDERSON My earliest recollection of the old building on the present location of the Bowling Alley was an old blacksmith shop and this building stood vacant for a long time. On the vacant lot, just east of the bowling alley, was a wooden building that was used as a picture show house and was called the Gem Theatre. The first operator that I can recall was Joe Jones, and later a man by the name of Hedrick operated this show house. This business place had its own private light plant, as the Municipal lights were only on a few hours a day, coming on at dark, then shutting off at 11:00 p.m. W. Turner (no relation to W. J. or John L. Turner), who was manager of the lumber yard across the street north, then had a garage, using the front part of the picture show house as the office, and the back part for the repair shop, using the old blacksmith shop as a storage place for cars. Later, John Holleman & Son (Urban) operated this garage selling Ford products. This business closed during the early '30s, and then Henry M. Davison operated the garage there, selling Plymouth and Chrysler cars. Davison operated this garage until he died in the early '40s. The earliest garage to operate on this location was the Macy & Young Garage, selling the Model "T" Fords. These two were Walter Macy and Charles Young, but whether they operated in the old blacksmith building or the building used as the Gem Theatre is not clear. Tom Dempster bought his first model "T" Ford from Macy & Young, but doesn't remember now which building was used. The Coral Lanes building was built in the summer of 1964 by Adolph Hauff and John Mitchell. DE BODE NEWSPAPER The first number of "DeBode," the newspaper published in the Holland language, was issued on September 13, 1894. The paper was devoted to the interest of immigration to Bon Homme Co. and had a general circulation among the people of that nationality throughout the west. Mr. John Hospers, the editor, also engaged in the real estate business. On December 14, 1899, DeBode suspended publication because of a lack of Holland readers in the area. It was the only Holland paper in South Dakota and was ably edited but was a losing venture. On February 11, 1900, Mr. Hospers died of stomach trouble and lung disease, having been in poor health for a year. He was buried at Orange City, la. He left a wife and seven children. DEMOCRAT NEWSPAPER A newspaper called The Democrat under the editorship of Bert Welshman was started here in 1908. Bert printed it until 1910, then moved to Sioux City and turned the editorship over to his father, J. D. Welshman. In July, 1911, the plant was hit by a fire. The Times offered them the use of their plant, but this imitation was not accepted. The Democrat did appear six weeks later printed on a single sheet. The Welshmans were residents here for many years. They moved from here in October, 1911, to Yankton. The equipment was sold at auction February 9, 1912. FACTORY In 1937 Jonas Swenson, who had nursed the idea of a putty-less window sash, opened a putty-less barn sash factory in the old Grandview Hotel, having produced the sash for awhile at his farm home west of Springfield. He remodeled the old hotel to meet his needs and also devised and built all of his own machines for manufacturing his windows. In 1936 he turned out 7,000 windows and in 1937 lumber was being brought in by the carload lots. He did not advertise till in 1937 on account of not being equipped to handle the orders. In 1953 he moved his shop to Yankton where he continued his business till 1960, when he sold it to Vern Johnson of Yankton and retired. In 1957 Jonas remodeled the old Grandview Hotel again. Local contractor Alfred Stockholm set up his shop in the northeast corner and Mr. Swenson ============================page 30============================= converted modern apartments out of the remaining first floor, as it is at the present time. MC DANIEL HOUSE In 1870 a large house on Emmanuel Creek known as the McDaniel house, now as the Ladie Thomas home, was used as a "road ranch" by the early travelers. There was a good ford across the creek nearby and water was always available. Among the known travelers who stopped there was the famous outlaw, Jesse James. He rode in alone after sundown one evening on a tired horse. He paid for his meal and night's lodging and left in the morning before anyone else was up. This house to the early settlers was considered to be something big for it had six bedrooms, a 16 x 18 living room, dining room and kitchen. McDaniels was one of the first settlers at Bon Homme. Thinking there were too many people there, he went farther west and established a post office in a small building on the bank of Emmanuel Creek near the place where he later built his house. This post office was called "Emanuel" and was closed February 6, 1871, after the Springfield post office was established in February 10, 1870. PALSMA-HOLLEMAN MOTOR CO. On the 1st of January, 1930, Springfield gained a new business, when Palsma-Holleman Motor Company opened its doors. Organized by Henry Palsma and Henry D. Holleman, natives of the Springfield area, 'The Garage' has served the community and surrounding area ever since. In 1959 John L. Palsma joined his father and "Bud" as a full partner. At first only Ford cars and trucks were sold. In 1939, however, when the Ford Company created the Mercury Division, "Bud" and "Hank" decided to add the Mercury line too. The hard times of the depression years saw little expansion of the original facility---the present showroom and office area. There were gasoline pumps located at the curb in front; cars were driven from Main street through the building to the shop area--the present parts department. Gradually the facilities were improved and modernized, culminating in 1957 with the construction of the Standard Service Station to the west and the new service shop area to the north. The original building was remodeled and became the showrooms and office space one sees today. SPRINGFIELD POST OFFICE The Springfield area had mail services before 1870 but in that year the first post office that had been out on Emmanuel Creek was closed and was established in Springfield with J. L. Turner as the postmaster. By 1892 the outlying postoffices of Dalytown, Wanari and Andrus had outgrown their usefulness and mail was distributed from Springfield with George Mead as postmaster. In 1898 R. L. Wilson was made postmaster. Rural free delivery service was started in 1902 and at that time the post office at Bon Homme was discontinued. In 1908 A. T. Bridgeman became postmaster. At that time the post office was still in the Snow building but it was moved into the Odd Fellows building in March, 1909. Rural mail was delivered with horse drawn vehicles. Fred Dawes was on Route 1, Fred Oelrick was on Route 2 and Joe Jones had Route 3. In 1911 Fred Dawes purchased a mail truck. In 1918 James Gaynor became postmaster and served for 29 years, retiring in 1943. Mrs. Lillian Gaynor succeeded her husband as postmaster. In February, 1943, the postoffice was moved from the Odd Fellows building to the Masonic building which had been recently vacated by the Kibble store. Mrs. Gaynor retired in 1949 and Delbert Fitzler became postmaster. A fine new post office building was dedicated in 1969 at 811 8th Street. SPRINGFIELD - S. F. BUS LINE In the fall of 1935, Hugh and Gloria McNeely purchased the Springfield Bus Line from Roy Overman, who had started it in 1929. Mr. Overman had been operating this line for six years. There had been a need for such a line to connect Springfield with other passenger lines and to enable the people here to get some kinds of express more rapidly. Mr. McNeely built up the business from one auto bus to several regulation passenger buses. He had at one time a 33 passenger, a 30 passenger, a 25 passenger and a 12 passenger all in service. He furnished excellent passenger and express service to Tyndall, Scotland, Olivet, Menno. Freeman, Marion, Monroe and Sioux Falls. At Tyndall, connections were made with the Platte-Yankton Line to all points east and south and in Sioux Falls connections with larger bus lines to all parts of the country. The bus line carried the newspapers, ice cream, perishable drugs and rush orders for all kinds of express and machine parts, besides its regular passenger service. A charter service was built up and many school teams, clubs and organizations used this method of transportation. During World War II when Mr. McNeely served for two years in the Navy, Lyle Irish and Glenn Roddan carried on the service. This was a busy time for buses because of the rationing of gas, tires and parts for private cars. After the war when Mr. McNeely returned home Glenn Roddan continued to help him for a few years. In 1955 after 20 years of very successful operation, the bus line was sold to Charles Langley. Mr. Langley operated the line until his death about eight years later. The Langley family sold the permit to Harold Halsey who again operated a successful business for over a year before selling to Merle Ferwerda, the present owner. The bus line is still serving the community and giving fine service to the town of Springfield. SPRINGFIELD STATE BANK The 24th day of September, 1924, was the first day of business for the Springfield State Bank. Louis A. Gray of Sioux Falls and E. B. Dwight of Sioux Falls, after working for two months selling stock to the local citizens, of which in all were ============================page 31========================== thirty-one, opened the bank on the above date. H. B. Bard, waiting on the steps for several hours, desired to be the first depositor. The officers elected were Louis A. Gray, President; P. G. Monfore, Vice President, and E. B. Dwight, Cashier, Vinta R. Kibble, Assistant Cashier. Directors were Louis A. Gray, P. G. Monfore, funeral director John R. Talsma, farmer W. J. Hornstra, farmer were Louis A. Gray, P. G. Monfore, funeral director, John R. Talsma, farmer, W. J. Hornstra, farmer, William Turner, merchant, H. E. Ketcham, telephone company, and E. B. Dwight. The first transaction was to purchase the bank building and equipment from the State Banking Department and the bank has occupied these quarters since date of purchase. The records of the bank reflect the ups and downs of the community. The overall picture gives evidence of the prosperity of Springfield and its surrounding territory. During the Great Depression and drought no crops were raised in the area for a period of seven years--1930 to 1937. From 1938 the income was on the rise with a new crop of young farmers and businessmen developing. The present personnel of the bank is: E. B. Dwight, president; D. W. Dwight, vice president; Robert Coleman, cashier; Lorraine De Roos, assistant cashier, and Barbara Vander Linde, assistant cashier. Directors are Ray Talsma, Roy Coleman, E. B. Dwight, D. W. Dwight and Robert Coleman. SPRINGFIELD TIMES The Springfield Times, which appeared for the first time in 1871 and has appeared with the same name since, is known as the oldest weekly newspaper in the state of South Dakota. Two papers in the state started before this, the Vermillion Republican, started in 1861, and the Yankton Press and Dakotan, started before the Times but consolidated in 1873. The first issue of the Times was printed by L. D. F. Poore on July 27, 1871, on an old hand press in the upstairs of his residence. A. Hitchcock was on hand to take the first copy off the press and Clark S. Roe was also on hand to see the first copy as it came off the press. It was a six column folio end was Republican in politics. During his editorship, Poore was appointed as receiver for the Springfield Land Office and served in that capacity until the office was removed from Springfield in 1880 to Watertown. In January, 1873, the Times was designated as one of the official papers of the United States for publishing the laws in this Territory. In 1878 Mr. Poore changed it to a six column quarto and it had a circulation of 450. During the severe blizzard and flood in the spring of 1881, Mr. Poore had to print his newspaper on wrapping paper several times as there was no train able to bring in supplies due to the tracks being blocked by snow and later washed out during the flood. Also during this time the Times was not able to accommodate the townsmen requesting extra copies with the article of the flood on account of the scarcity of paper at that time and ran the flood article again in the following issue. In June, 1881, Poore sold the Times to John Todd and he printed his first edition on June 23, 1881. He moved the paper into the E. C. Austin building and Poore rented his building to E. W. Monfore. Todd continued his editorship until 1887, when he sold the paper to J. W. Turner and E. H. Benedict. Turner retired from the staff of the paper in 1888 and his partner published the paper until 1890 when J. C. Young assumed the editorship. During his editorship he changed the Times from a weekly, from July, 1894, to April, 1897, to a semiweekly with an edition appearing every Tuesday and Friday. Young sold out in 1897 to F. P. Glasner, the man who was later to become secretary of state. Mr. Glasner continued until he sold out to O. B. Slasor in 1906. Slasor headed the Times plant for two years and then A E. Smalley acquired it. In 1909 Smalley moved the plant into the Henderson jewelry and clothing store building. He also had the files bound for a period of 32 years. Smalley added to the plant and was one of the first editors in the state to use a Linotype. In 1915 J. W. Bordewyk assumed full charge of the paper and in 1924 he replaced the last gasoline motor with a third electric motor. In 1927 A. E. Smalley returned to Springfield and ran the paper under a lease for a few months. The Times was sold to H. C. King in 1928 and the paper continued under his management until February, 1933, when his son, Roy M. King, assumed charge. In September, 1933, Roy leased the paper to L. K. Lethrop who operated it under a lease for Roy while he relinquished his editorial duties to attend the University of Iowa and resumed editing the Times again July 5, 1934. In January, 1938, Roy changed the Times from an eight-page paper with its four pages of ready print to an eight- page tabloid which made more room for local news matter. On April 1, 1938, Roy sold the paper to E. R. "Mac" McClure who came here from Tabor, la. He printed the Times up to September, 1953, when the editor of the Tyndall Tribune, J, T. Trevillyan, took over as manager with Olga E. Trevillyan as editor. They printed the Times till January, 1954, when they returned the editorship back to McClure on account of Olga's health. In August, 1954, G, W. Corey took over the editorship of the Times, and Mr. McClure remained with him for two years, till July, 1956, before he completely retired from the newspaper business. The office of the Times is still located in the old Henderson jewelry and clothing store that was built by Sam Henderson in 1896, and has been located here since 1909 when F. P. Glasner was editor and moved the plant to this location. As of October 1, 1964, the Times was sold to Mr. and Mrs. John Whalen, publishers of the Tyndall Tribune and Register. On February 1, 1965, Leo Thomson of Lynch, Nebr., was hired as manager of the Times, with Mrs. Thomson serving as news editor and handling other front office duties. Under the new management the paper was modernized, with the offset method of printing being utilized. This provided improved reproduction of pictures, advertisements and news matter. Page size was enlarged from a five-column tabloid to eight columns of 21 1/2-inches in length. TELEPHONE COMPANY As early as February, 1891, interest was shown in a local telephone exchange. Patent rights were binding until March, 1893, on the Bell inventions, so royalties would have to be paid to them. B. W. Burnett was the original owner of the ===========================page 32=========================== Springfield Telephone Company that went into operation in the summer of 1900. Ira Smith and Daniel Niles acquired Mr. Burnett's interests in the telephone company in June of 1901. Walter Macey later bought an interest also. Albert Swayne purchased control of the company from these men. Western Electric Telephone Co. put in the first lines from Tabor to Bon Homme, Springfield and ending at Running Water. This line was completed during the spring and summer of 1901. The Springfield Telephone company was bought by Tim Holleman in 1907. This included the rural lines only, which extended west (5 miles) to the James Kirk farm and to Perkins. Mr. Holleman extended the rural lines and the number of rural phones increased considerably in his first several years as owner. The going rate was $1.00 per month for private phones and $1 .25 for business phones. In the fall of 1910, Mr. Holleman purchased the town exchange, and with it the building on the north side of 8th street. The downstairs of the building was occupied by Fred Bykerk shoe repair on one side, and by Bessie Thomas photograph gallery on the other. The phone office and switchboards were upstairs. There were often two or three day operators and one night operator. Early operators were Jane Macey, Anna Dykstra, Jennie Dykstra, Amy Warrington Jones, Estella Sorenson Truesdell and Pierre Fisher. Night operators were often college boys attending the Normal daytime. The telephone line to Santee was also a part of Mr. Holleman's exchange. This line was along span across the river, and often caused freeze-in problems in the winter. John Kirk, James Kirk, Jr., and Harley Ketcham bought the telephone company from Tim Holleman in November, 1919. Mr. Ketcham became general manager as well as owner and remained in that position until his death in recent years. Mr. Ketcham extended and made many improvements throughout his years as owner of the company. His list of "hello girl" operators would be extensive, but probably the best remembered being Helen Vanderby and Mrs. Harriet (Sam) Henderson. After Mr. Ketcham's death in 1961, the company was acquired by his nephew, James E. Kirk, wife Helen and L. J. Armentrout of Armour. Following Mr. Kirk's death in 1964, L. J. Armentrout and Mrs. Kirk became principal stockholders and served as officers in the corporation. In the last eight years the company has been improved to one of the most modern in the state. Springfield now has the advantages of local dial, direct distance dialing and automatic identification, and is the only all weather phone plant in South Dakota, which means that all lines in both town and country are buried beneath the ground out of reach of both summer and winter storms. THE RUBBERNECK "The Rubberneck," a paper that was printed by the Worthy Order of Stealthy Spooks, was put out in Springfield once in a while from 1900 to 1915. Printed by unknown editors, the papers would be found in the morning hanging on billboards or fences around town when the editors had something to print about local citizens. A few of these copies are still in existence. [photo - PETER WESSLING HARDWARE STORE, 1918] ============================page 33================================ [photo - SPRINGFIELD LIVERY dray in front of the Springfield hotel. Man standing in front of the team is Frank Monfore.] [photo - MEAT MARKET, 1907, operated by John Matthews and Aaron Poelstra as partners. Pictured left to right are Fred Kibble, Harry Matthews, Aaron Poelstra, Peter Poelstra, John Matthews and William Poelstra.] ========================page 34==================================== [photo - ERNEST E. ECHELBERGER BARBER SHOP] [photo - HORSE-DRAWN HEARSE] [photo - FITZLER STORE, about 1915. Pictured are James Fryda, Sr., Jack Fitzler and Joe Uken, Sr.] [photo - DRY GOODS DEPT., TURNER'S STORE] ===========================page 35================================ [photo - GRANDFATHER TURNER IN HIS OFFICE IN TURNER STORE] [photo - THE BUILDING which housed Henderson's Excelsior Clothing Store in the days of hitching posts is now occupied by the Springfield Times office on the first floor, with apartments on the second floor.] =========================page 36=================================== [photo - ED DE MELT AT THE steering wheel of the 1911 Jeffrey "depot bus" in front of the Davison garage.] [photo - PARTS DEPARTMENT of the Palsma-Holleman Motor Co., which is the oldest firm now operating in Springfield from the standpoint of length of time under the present ownership. At center is Henry Palsma and at right is Henry "Bud" Holleman.] [photo - GRAND VIEW HOTEL] ======================page 37====================================== [photo - ARTESIAN ROLLER MILLS] [photo - KESSLERS HONORED - In February of 1970, the Springfield Rotary Club honored Dr. and Mrs. W. F. Kessler for 35 years of service to the community. Julius Sandvick, a member of the club, presents a plaque to Dr. Kessler as Mrs. Kessler looks on.] ======================page 38====================================== [photo - REPLICA OF LOG SCHOOLHOUSE AT BON HOMME] [photo - ROUNDHOUSE AT RUNNING WATER] [photo - A GATHERING AT LORETTA] [photo - THIS IS A PICTURE OF KINGSBURG taken in August of 1920 during Harvest Festival. The man in the photo, said to be Elmer Luke, is standing at the entrance of the general merchandise store operated by the late Carson Janssen. The "x" identifies the Janssen automobile.] ==========================page 39=================================== [photo - PERKINS STORE 1910] [photo - KIRK HOME on farm about seven miles southwest of Springfield.] [photo - JOHN MC NEILL'S HOUSE] [photo - THIS PICTURE WAS TAKEN as the last steam locomotive approached the Springfield depot in 1954.] ==========================page 40==================================== [photo - GEORGE W. SNOW HOME] [photo - THIS PHOTO WAS TAKEN SEPTEMBER 17, 1911, at the Jerry Ferwerda farm. Left to right are Annie Ferwerda, Bob Smith, Frank Smith, Grace Ferwerda, Ed Swank, Pete Ferwerda, Bartha Ferwerda, Pete Drent, Herman De Boor, Mrs. Herman De Boor, Rudolph De Roose, John Ferwerda, Jerry Ferwerda, Martha Dykstra and Dick J. Dykstra.] [photo - JOHN FITCH AND JOHN HENKEL] [photo - OLD MUNICIPAL SWIMMING POOL] ==========================page 41================================ [photo - SHELLING CORN with horsepower on Olaf Lundin farm. Emma, Jimmie and Annie Lundin in foreground.] [photo - JOHN LUNDIN DRIVES SEVEN HORSES ON THREE-BOTTOM PLOW] [photo - FOURTH OF JULY EVENT in days of yore. Pictured, left to right, Mrs. E. C. Monfore, Mrs. J. W. Turner, Miss Maud Flowers, Miss Emma Hill, Mrs. H. M. Davison, Miss Mabel Smith, Miss Nellie Benedict, Miss Effie Radway, Miss Florence Young, Miss Emma Marsh and Miss Alberta Monfore.] ===========================page 42============================== [photo - RICHARD THOMAS AND HIS FIRST TRACTOR] [photo - HARVESTING ICE] [photo - SAM HENDERSON'S CLAIM SHACK] [photo - SAM HENDERSON'S DUGOUT] ===========================page 43=============================== [photo - BILLY THOMAS AND DAUGHTER JANE are shown unloading grain with horse power in 1913.] [photo - BELIEVED TAKEN ABOUT 1890, this photo shows Sam Henderson, Sr., and C. S. Jencks having a friendly game.] [photo - DRESSED UP for the Fourth of July. "One of these is Weaver Woudsma," says the notation on the back of the photo.] ===========================page 44================================= [photo - MRS. JIMMY GAYNOR served as postmaster for many years. She succeeded her husband in the post following his death.] [photo - GRANDMA SARA POLSON] [photo - THIS PICTURE of a Bon Homme County teachers' institute was taken May 16, 1889. Among those identified are Nettie Cook, David Dunwoodie, Ernest Kniffen, Charles Eymer, Oscar McCrea, Albert Eymer, Clarence Richmond, Mamie Devers, Kate McCann, Emma Cooper, Armina McNeill, Luna McNeill, Nellie Slark, Georgiana Thomas, Kate Muller, Helen Bridgeman, Alva McCrea, Laura Case, Cornelia Marvin, Effie Radway, Isabelle Trotter, Ben F. Jaquays, Anna Stark, Mae Richmond, Alice Williams, Jennie Williams, Ann Duxberry, Nellie Hutton, Effie Braton. Some of these were taking their examinations at the time the institute was held.] ===========================page 45=================================== [photo - THIS WAS ALL that remained after a fire leveled Turner's store in the spring of 1913.] [photo - CHRISTOPHER AND MARIA MATSON AND CARRIE]