Early Optimism

September 19, 1855,  The Weekly Wisconsin (Milwaukee, WI)

Menasha was barely a village when this pronouncement was made in the local newspaper, quoted here in the large Milwaukee weekly.  Was it just optimistic fluff issued by a conscientious editor for his little enclave or the real McCoy?  Whatever the case, readers of the Weekly Wisconsin might have been obliged to check out the growing little village on the north end of Lake Winnebago.  In a few decades, it would be a manufacturing hub strong enough for the railroads to take notice of and for diverse investors around the state to pay attention to as well.  

Guess Who?

 

October 23, 1968, Twin City News-Record

An interesting cast of characters at the Who's New Club masquerade party.  I wonder who of today's generation know who Mammy Yokum was.  Minor side note, the party was held at the Village Inn pizza parlor which later became a high school hangout of mine, the Brat und Brau around 1972.  

Pumpkin Pies

 October 23, 1968, Twin City News-Record

It looks like pumpkin pies were a big deal in 1968 Menasha.  Either that, or Best Bakery came up with some sweetheart deal with all the retailers downtown.  Yes, picking up a pie with a new suit or dress at the local clothiers was a bit unorthodox.  And, parenthetically...looking past what would be a definite un-PC graphic in each of the ads, are we allowed to have an "Indian" summer any more?  Just wondering.  

"New " Shopping Center

October 19, 1925, Menasha Record

We've made it known before in the blog that there was renewed effort to make the Tayco Street and Main area a shopping mecca for Menasha in the 1920's.  This culminated in the construction of the Brin Building in late 1928 on the remnants of the old Landgraf Hotel.  This ad from 1925 showcases other businesses that hoped to entice shoppers to the area.  The area DID have a history of commerce, as a bridge across Little Lake Butte des Morts was once in operation and terminated in this area in the late 1800's.  See the following link:  http://menashabook.blogspot.com/2013/12/first-butte-des-morts-bridge.html

A Taste Tempting Array

October 23, 1969, Neenah-Menasha Daily Northwestern

Over the years at the blog, we've grown accustomed (and appreciative) of reporting on the delightful and affordable spreads put on by the Hotel Menasha.  In some years it was known as a buffet.  For a time, it was popularly called a smorgasbord.  In almost all cases, it was an "all you can eat" affair.  Depending upon the holiday, we've seen duck, turkey, game hens, ham, crab legs, roast beef, you name it.  This seems like the first time it was labeled a chicken and seafood combined buffet, though I'm sure other special days rivaled it.  

There's no special point to make here; it just seems like the longer I do this, the more the memories come alive for things that were formerly with us.  Is that historic, nostalgic, or just melancholy?  

Hygiene Habits

October 21, 1969, Neenah-Menasha Daily Northwestern

There's nothing like using a comically giant toothbrush (and teeth!) to make a point about brushing one's teeth regularly.  I seem to recall similar demonstrations in my own school career, which might explain why this lady looks so familiar.  

A Bridge

October 20, 1967, Twin City News-Record

I knew this bridge well behind the downtown Banta plant.  I wonder how many knew it was across the Lawson Canal, much less knowing what the Lawson Canal even was.  Do a search on the term and you'll find a number of posts about the canal over the years.