February 4, 1902 Eau Claire Leader
Although we discussed Stroebe Island last week in the blog, here's a leftover item I ran across as I researched that blog post. Cockfighting was outlawed in Wisconsin in 1889, but apparently in 1902, that law wasn't necessarily enforced. By the sound of this news item, it was still a viable means to lose your paycheck and the existence of such contests must have been an open secret to the area's wagering class.
As Menasha was comprised primarily of Polish, Irish and German immigrants I wonder about the origins of this nasty sport in the city. It usually stems from S America, Mexico, Cuba. Perhaps it predates the bowling teams and softball leagues of later years.
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