Looking Back • July 1921

July 1, 1921

Special services were held at Valparaiso University yesterday in honor of Professor O. P. Kinsey, former president of the school. Mrs. O. E. Weaver, here on a visit, sang. Professor Kinsey spoke and reviewed the policies of the institution and how it grew into a mighty factor for education by inculcating in the minds of the students a desire for hard work and devotion to study.

The Pennsylvania Western Veterans’ Association of the Pennsylvania Railroad will hold its annual outing in Valparaiso this year. The date will probably be set for some time in September. Between 200 and 250 veterans are expected to attend.

July 2, 1921

Farmers of Pleasant and Boone Townships, Porter County, have started a movement for the restoration of the Kankakee River to its old location. A number of years ago the old river bed was forsaken and its waters diverted to the Marble Ditch. The farmers contend this agricultural move has been a failure and the ground is now worthless. Standing timber is dying as a result. Senator Harry New has been asked to assist and a government agent will probably visit the region. It is the plan of the farmers to restore the section for hunting and fishing.

The Wheeler-Lunbeck Company of Valparaiso today incorporated with the secretary of state at Indianapolis with a capitalization of $25,000 ($375,970.67 in 2021). Roy Wheeler is president; L. T. Applegate, secretary; Frank Lunbeck, treasurer; Leon Wheeler, sales manager. The company will manufacture and sell a proposed shoe form for window display purposes.

July 3, 1921

Canton Valparaiso No. 27, the Patriarchs Militant Branch of Odd Fellowship, was mustered in by officers of the state organization on Saturday afternoon at Odd Fellow hall. Canton Hammond, No. 55, conferred the degrees. Major General Landes of Indianapolis, and staff, mustered in both orders. Following the work a 6 o’clock dinner was served. At 7:30 o’clock a grand military ball and parade was held. Weed’s Band headed the procession. Harry J.Fox is captain of the canton and Sarah Ina Cunningham is president of the auxiliary.

Miss Willa Wansborough, assistant to county superintendent of schools, Fred H. Cole, was the only Porter County applicant who successfully passed the special examination for qualification of attendance officers offered by the state board in June. Her manuscript graded 100. There were thirty applicants.

July 4, 1921

Nearly 1,000 persons attended the Fourth of July picnic given by the Porter County Farmers’ Association at the country home of County Agent A. Z. Arehart at Wolf’s Corners. Pine Township defeated Porter Township in a baseball game in the morning by a score of 11 to 9. A flag raising ceremony by Joseph W. Zea and E. M. Burns, old (Civil War) soldiers, assisted by Flora Baer, was held. In the afternoon talks were made by J. T. Buchanan, president of the Farmers’ Association; Maurice Douglas, of the Indiana Public Service Commission; E. J. Freund and M. J. Bowman. The Valparaiso Athletics defeated a picked team by a close score. Races and games were also held.

July 5, 1921

O. P. Kinsey, of Valparaiso University, addressed members of the Kiwanis Club at their meeting today. He expressed the opinion the city should build a hotel at any cost.

July 6, 1921

Professor Kinsey also shared with the Kiwanis Club that he had sold his property here and expects to spend summers in Valparaiso where he consequently would like to live at a hotel.

July 7, 1921

Indignation meetings over the closing of the Flint Lake Road by County Highway Superintendent Joseph Crowe are now the order of the day. Resorters at the lakes are complaining about being bottled up by the ten-day order. A number of persons are contemplating going to Michigan City and obtaining an injunction from Judge H. L. Crumpacker, of the Porter-LaPorte Superior Court.

Major A.V. Dairymple, former Valparaiso University student, and recent federal prohibition agent for Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and Kentucky, visited Valparaiso today. In company with Attorneys Grant Crumpacker and William Daly he went to Flint Lake to swim to cool off in the waters.

July 8, 1921

Neil Arvin, son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Arvin, of Valparaiso, was united in marriage at Lausanne, Switzerland, on June 30, to Miss Marguerite Mullere, of Lausanne. Mr. Arvin has been studying in Paris for several years, and will return to the United States in September. He formerly taught at Harvard University.

Dr. G. R. Douglas was in Chicago yesterday to meet the remains of his cousin, Captain Howard Douglas, who was killed several weeks ago in an airplane accident over Chesapeake Bay. The body of Captain Douglas was enroute to California for burial.

July 9, 1921

Sergeant Charles A. Pratt, formerly of Valparaiso, who lost his life in France on November 8, three days before armistice was signed, has been awarded the French Croix de Guerre by the French government. Pratt went to France in 1917 and was severely wounded in action in July, 1918, but recovered. John Bert Mitchell, another Valparaiso boy, received a similar decoration. He was severely wounded in action.

An ordinance was passed by the Valparaiso City Council last evening annexing a parcel of land west of the fair grounds into the city. The land is owned by F. W. Alpen and has been platted into building lots. A number of homes have been built in the addition.

July 10, 1921

George LaForce, who has severed his connection with the Lowenstine Shoe Department, and Frank James of Columbus, O., formerly of Valparaiso, will open up a shoe store in the LaForce building on Franklin Street about September 1.

Indiana Avenue and Chicago Street will soon be improved with a coating of asphalt by Valparaiso authorities. Chuck holes in the streets are being filled preparatory to the work. Other streets are also to receive attention.

July 11, 1921

The Up-to-Date Cleaners on Lincolnway in Valparaiso, owned by Gust Demos, opened its new dry cleaning plant on North Washington Street, recently built. New machinery for dry cleaning of all kinds of fabrics has been installed.

Morris Poncher, who has been connected with the W. A. Stimson auto agency, has resigned his position and taken the agency for the Mitchell auto.

July 12, 1921

Porter and Boone Township voters approved two gravel roads at elections held. The Valentine Hahn Road in Porter Township carried by a large margin, and the Frank Foltz Road by a small majority. Both townships voted on the Foltz Road.

July 13, 1921

The Porter County Cow Testing Association was organized last night at the county agent’s office. George Huitma, tester last year, will act again. Julius Turk, Liberty Township, was named president, and Everett M. Carver, Pine Township, secretary-treasurer.

July 14, 1921

The First Church of Christ, Scientist, is having plans drawn for a new edifice to be constructed upon the Sisson lot owned by the church at the corner of Calumet Avenue and Franklin Street. An architect from the Carnegie Company, Chicago, which erected the McGill factory buildings, has been employed. The building will cost $25,000 ($375,970.67 in 2021).

Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Carpenter, of Brazil, Ind., parents of Rev. Guy O. Carpenter, pastor of the Methodist Church, made a recent visit here before sailing for Europe and purchased an automobile for their grandson, Guy Duncan Carpenter. This is the second automobile given to the Carpenter family in the last few months. One presented to the pastor by the congregation was stolen a few weeks after its presentation.

July 15, 1921

Only two Valparaiso boys will attend the citizens’ military training camp at Camp Knox, Kentucky, on July 21 to August 20. About forty local young men applied, but as only 400 were accepted from the state out of 5,111 applications, only two were selected here. The successful applicants are Howard C. Bailey and John Edward Middaugh.

W. J. Whitaker, who recently purchased the Willis Winninger Farm east of Valparaiso, is moving here from Francesville, Ind. Mr. Winninger was formerly connected with the State Bank of Francesville, but resigned because of his health.

July 16, 1921

Chesterton will have a building and loan association. The decision was reached at meeting of the directors of the chamber of commerce of that place. The capital of the association will be $30,000 ($451,164.80 in 2021), and it is proposed to operate as a rural association. The movement recently gained headway at a meeting of the chamber of commerce members addressed by Harry P. New, of Lebanon, building and loan expert.

The Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce membership will vote on two questions in a referendum to be submitted to them. The first question is: Do you favor the appropriation of $1,200 ($18,046.59 in 2021) by the city council for band concerts. The second is: Do you favor the chamber of commerce recommending such steps to the city council as to prohibit so-called carnivals, streets fairs or street fakirs operating within the city, based on your opinion whether such action would be good for the economic, civic, social and moral welfare of the entire community.

July 17, 1921

The Mineral Springs Race Course at Porter, dream of Chicago, Hammond, Gary and Valparaiso racing men, was sold today at sheriff’s sale by Sheriff William Pennington to Charles S. Peirce, of this city. It is said Mr. Peirce purchased the property for Charles Crumpacker. The race course consists of 120 acres, and the price paid was $9,000 ($135,349.44 in 2021). The Mineral Springs Race Course was established seven years ago and a number of races were held. It was ordered closed by Governor Thomas Marshall who sent the state militia here to enforce the order. Since then, it has been used for auto and motorcycle racing.

A number of Porter County farmers are loading wool today and tomorrow at the Pennsylvania Depot for shipment to Columbus, O. The farmers expect to fill a car load with a minimum capacity of 16,000 pounds.

July 18, 1921

J. E. Oliver, of Chicago, who took several leases covering about 2,000 acres of land in Jackson Township, Porter County, is expected to begin drilling for oil within a few days. His drilling outfit, which was to have arrived several days ago, has been delayed. He will go down to Trenton rock.

Lives of Edward Zugbaum and his two-year-old daughter, Josephine, were snuffed out today when an automobile in which they were riding was struck by a Baltimore and Ohio passenger train one mile west of Suman. Harry, age 13, who was in the auto, miraculously escaped with a broken leg. He was carried 200 feet.

July 19, 1921

At a meeting of the faculty of Valparaiso University, President J. E. Roessler announced that many inquiries had been received at the college office from all parts of the country in regard to the fall opening in September. Indications are that the enrollment will be the largest enjoyed by the school in many years. President Roessler said that Professor O. P. Kinsey would conduct chapel exercises on Friday morning.

July 20, 1921

The first wool pool shipment by Porter County farmers left this morning over Pennsylvania Lines for Columbus, O. The car contained 18,569 pounds of wool. It will be stored in the warehouse at Columbus and sold to best advantage.

July 21, 1921

The machinery to be used in the training of federal board students at Valparaiso University arrived here today over the Grand Trunk Railroad. It was purchased at Cleveland, Ohio, and consists of 25 pieces, lathes, drills, presses and planers. The aggregate weight is 58,000 pounds. Training of the men has been held up pending the arrival of the machinery scheduled some four weeks ago.

Rollin C. Higley, general secretary of the Y.M.C.A. at Greensburg, Ind., has resigned to accept a position in the local office of Lewis E. Myers and Company. Mr. Higley’s family will move to Valparaiso on August 1. They formerly resided here.

July 22, 1921

The Foster Lumber and Coal Company has commenced work on several factory buildings for the U. S. China Company at Porter. The aggregate cost of the buildings will exceed $140,000 ($2,105,435.75 in 2021). The local firm also has the contract for $20,000 ($300,776.54 in 2021)  in government construction for the remodeling of buildings at Valparaiso University for federal board students training. The work must be completed within thirty days.

The treasury of the Porter County Red Cross was enriched $453.73 ($453.73 in 2021) by the baseball game played recently between the Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs at Brown Field.

July 23, 1921

The Lowenstine-owned building at the corner of Indiana Avenue and Franklin Street in Valparaiso has been leased to Doyle and Breed, barbers, who have been occupying the LaForce building, formerly occupied by the George Knoll Confectionery. The LaForce building will be occupied by Frank James and George LaForce for a shoe store.

According to a report compiled by County Agent A. Z. Arehart, fifty-eight percent of the farmers of the county belong to the Porter County Farming Association. There are 1,591 farmers in the county farming five acres or more. A total of 929 belong to the association.

July 24, 1921

County Agent A. Z. Arehart was re-elected for another year at a meeting of the county board of education Saturday. His second year of office dates from August 1. Mr. Arehart made a report of work done by his office for the last eleven months.

Bruce Loring, son of Judge H. H. Loring, of the Porter Circuit Court, today opened an office for the practice of law in a room over the Valparaiso State Bank. He was graduated from the University of Michigan last month.

July 25, 1921

The Smith and Smiths Company of Valparaiso, has been awarded the contract for the erection of a cow barn at the Montdale Stock Farm, east of the city. The building will be equipped with the latest devices The Montdale Farm has acquired an additional herd of Ayrshire cattle for its milk trade.

Twenty-five acres of land within a short distance of the concrete road at Waverly Beach is being subdivided by S. Freund, proprietor of Sheridan Beach, Flint Lake. The property was offered for sale Saturday. Attorney E. J. Freund, of Valparaiso, is handling the sale. The property consists of 103 lots.

July 26, 1921

The office of the American Railway Express Company may be moved from its present location on Indiana Avenue to the Pennsylvania Depot. Officials of the Pennsylvania Railroad were here today in conference with express company officials. If the move is made, the office will be under the supervision of E. D. Hodges.

July 27, 1921

The county commissioners awarded the contract for the construction of the Barnard Road in Jackson Township to Flynn and Small of LaPorte for $83,325 ($1,253,110.24 in 2021). The road is to be macadam with an asphalt binder. The cost of the road is over $30,000 ($451,164.80 in 2021) per mile. Ray DeMass, of Chesterton, bid $86,000 ($1,293,339.11 in 2021) on natural asphalt.

July 28, 1921

The Alpha Epsilon fraternity of Valparaiso University has leased the O. P. Kinsey residence on Greenwich Street and will occupy it as a home. It is the intention of the fraternity to remodel the building.

Philley Brothers, who conduct a confectionery and news stand in the Schelling Theatre building, have leased the corner store room in the new Premier Theatre being built by Shauer and Son. The firm will retain its location in the Schelling Music Hall.

July 29, 1921

Harry Herrick, who has been manager of the Specht-Finney Company grocery for the last three years, has resigned his position and will sever his connection with the firm on August 1. Mr. Herrick has accepted a sales position with the McMahan-Wood Company. He has been in the grocery business in Valparaiso for twenty-five years.

At a special meeting of Valparaiso Lodge of Elks last evening, the proposition of remodeling the present quarters was discussed by the membership. A motion was adopted authorizing Exalted Ruler Charles H. Stinchfield to appoint a committee to take up the matter of remodeling with architects in club construction and getting plans and figures for cost of the work.

July 30, 1921

Richard Lieber, head of the department of conservation of Indiana, visited the sand dunes in north Porter County yesterday in company with representatives of the Indiana Editorial Association which met at Gary. State Senator Will Brown and Representative J. J. Overmyer were in the party. Mr. Lieber was enthusiastic over the establishment of a park in the dunes but said nothing definite had been decided upon by the state department.

A complaint alleging that the Great Lakes Sand Company has damaged the State of Indiana $50,000 ($751,941.34 in 2021) and is asking a temporary injunction, damages, and temporary restraining order against the company taking sand from Lake Michigan off the Lake, Porter and LaPorte County shores has been sent to Lake Circuit Court by U. S. Lesh, Indiana Attorney General.

July 31, 1921

Charles Chester, W. W. Bozarth, George Burke, and Garland Reynolds caught ten wall-eyed pike, weighing from four to six pounds, and a number of pickerel at the Kankakee River, south of Kouts. The fish are biting good because of the low water.

Fully 150 took the July examination for teachers’ licenses at the Central school in Valparaiso on Saturday. This was the largest number for several years according to Superintendent Fred H. Cole and brings back the old times when the number ran over the 400 mark.

Looking Back • June 1921

June 1, 1921

A big road grader, the largest ever brought to Porter County, arrived here today. It weighs four tons and carries a twelve-foot blade or scoop. It will be used on construction work for a big fill near Deep River on the old road, which was shifted 100 feet. George T. Pearce, county gravel road superintendent, and Joseph Wilgen, assistant, are in charge of the work.

June 2, 1921

The Chatfield Grain Company, of Chatfield, Ohio, which recently purchased the old Valparaiso Grain Elevator on South Washington Street, has begun work on the remodeling of the structure. An Indianapolis firm has the contract. The Chatfield Grain Company will deal in coal, cement, feeds and grains.

The directors of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce today decided to offer R. C. Breth, of Canton, Ill., the managership of the local chamber for one year. Mr. Bret stated he would come to Valparaiso, but asked for a three-year contract. If they accept his offer he will take up his duties June 15.

June 3, 1921

Rev. Charles E. Burns, new pastor of the Christian church, arrived here yesterday with his son, Earl, and are occupying the parsonage on Franklin Avenue. Rev. Burns has been instructor of bible literature at Milligan College in Milligan, Tenn. He will preach his first sermon Sunday. He went to Chicago today to meet Mrs. Burns and six children who have been visiting there.

The Olympia Confectionery on Lincolnway in Valparaiso, owned by Peter Brown, was purchased today by Charles Thune, who will remodel the interior for a first-class drugstore. Mr. Thune has been manager of the College Pharmacy in College Hill.

June 4, 1921

Valparaiso authorities have taken a determined stand against pool room owners allowing minors to frequent their places of business. The pool room owners had a verbal agreement with the police board to keep all minors out. An affidavit was filed by Councilman B. D. McMahan, chairman of the police board, against a local pool room owner, following a raid by city police in which four minors were found in the place.

The Gary-Valparaiso Interurban is planning a one-hour service to Gary this summer for the first time in its history, President C.W. Chase announced today. The service at present is hourly on Saturday and Sunday, and two hours every other day. Last year was the first time hourly service was tried on Saturdays and Sundays.

June 5, 1921

Wheeler, in Union Township, seven miles west of Valparaiso, will soon have electric lights. A contract has been signed with the Calumet Electric Company of Hammond, which recently installed a line from Long Lake to McCool. The work of wiring homes and business houses is now going on.

A large crowd attended the services at the Christian church, Sunday to welcome Rev. C. E. Burns, the new pastor. John R. Burch announced during the morning service that the church indebtedness had been lifted. The children’s day exercises in the evening was largely attended. A free-will offering for foreign missions was double that of last year.

June 6, 1921

Fred H. Cole was re-elected superintendent of county schools by election held this morning at the office of County Auditor B. H. Kinne. Charles H. Reider, principal of the Liberty Center school, was a candidate. Each received six votes. Auditor Kinne broke the tie.

The dedicatory services commemorating the 30th anniversary of the dedication of Immanuel Lutheran Church (now Heritage Lutheran Church)  was largely attended yesterday. Rev C. W. Baer, the pastor, spoke in the morning, and Rev. O. W. Linnemeyer, of Goodland, Ind., in the evening. The cornerstone of the present church was laid in June, 1891.

June 7, 1921

R. C. Breth, secretary of the chamber of commerce at Canton Ill., has accepted the offer of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce to become manager. He will arrive here June 15.

June 8, 1921

The Monterey Light and Power Company was granted a franchise Monday night by the Kouts Town Board to build a lighting system in Kouts. The Monterey Company at present supplies the town of Hebron. Daly and Freund, of Valparaiso, and T. E. Crowe, have asked the county commissioners for permission to erect poles between Kouts and Hebron.

June 9, 1921

Wayne Lewis, who has been serving as deputy county clerk under G. E. Bornholt, will soon enter the practice of law in Valparaiso. Mr. Lewis has been admitted to the bar. He will have an office with Judge A. D. Bartholomew and J. S. Bartholomew in the Valparaiso National Bank building (later occupied by First Federal Savings & Loan before being demolished) on South Washington Street.

The forty-seventh annual commencement exercises of Purdue University were held at Fowler Hall in West Lafayette yesterday. Among the 400 students who received diplomas were Max Evans and Earl Mavity of Valparaiso.

June 10, 1921

The Valparaiso Kiwanis Club defeated the Valparaiso Rotarians in a baseball game at Brown Field by a score of 12 to 6  yesterday afternoon before a crowd of 1,000 people. The proceeds went to the Red Cross. VonDoehren, Sandy, Ealing, J. Griffin, Wilson and Blount were the batteries for Kiwanis, and Hayward, Meyers, Moreland and Siemetz were the Rotarians’ battery.

Leroy Brown, of Wheatfield, has leased the Lightcap building on College Hill, formerly the Dutch Kitchen, and will open up a restaurant. He is installing a new oven and doughnut machine.

June 11, 1921

The state convention of the Indiana Elks may meet in Valparaiso next year. Julius Albe, Charles Chester, and Glen J. Hardesty returned from Evansville, Ind., last night, where they attended the state meeting. They reported prospects for bringing the convention here next year are unusually bright. The place will be selected at a meeting of the state organization to be held soon. Mr. Albe was elected trustee of the state organization for three years.

Councilman B. D. McMahan last night filed an affidavit with Mayor P. L. Sisson asking revocation of a Lincolnway pool room. Recently the owner of the pool room pleaded guilty in Justice T. B. Louderback’s court for allowing minors to frequent his place of business.

June 12, 1921

A big baseball game will be staged at Valparaiso University’s ball park Thursday afternoon between the employees of the Lowenstine store and the Specht-Finney Service First Club. The proceeds will go to the Salvation Army. W. B. Forney and Dr. E. H. Powell will umpire.

Porter County farmers held a meeting at the office of County Agent A. Z. Arehart last night and named a committee to take charge of pooling wool. J. C. Meister was named chairman, H. I. Barnett, secretary, and William St. Clair, manager.

June 13, 1921

John W. Moreland, registrar at Valparaiso University, will leave the university in August for Monmouth, Ill., where he will act as registrar at Monmouth College. He will attend the University of Chicago this summer to obtain his degree of doctor of jurisprudence.

The contract for construction of the Grassmere Land Company Ditch in Pleasant Township was awarded Saturday at the office of county surveyor Floyd A. McNiece to Walter Hygema, of Wakarusa, Ind., for $23,365 ($348,587.53 in 2021). The construction calls for the excavation of the old Reeves Ditch south of the Panhandle Railroad in Pleasant Township and runs ten miles in a southwesterly direction, emptying into the Marble Ditch. The Reeves Ditch was built in 1880 and was the first dredge ditch built in the county.

June 14, 1921

Joseph Crowe, county highway superintendent, and a force of men commenced work today asphalting the Valparaiso-Chesterton Road. The work will begin at Chesterton and proceed to the B & O Railroad. Last year the road from the B & O bridge to Wauhob Lake was asphalted.

June 15, 1921

Clarence Burmeister, one of a gang which attempted robbery of a Grand Trunk merchandise train west of Valparaiso, was brought here and placed in county jail. He was receiving treatment in a Chicago hospital for a gunshot wound received in a gun battle with a Grand Trunk detective. He posted bond for his release. Three others are also at liberty on bonds.

June 16, 1921

Wayne A. McDaniels, who resigned his position with Lewis E. Myers and Company last week began the practice of law in Gary today. He will be associated with Thad Menczynski, who is a graduate of Valparaiso University.

The Mutual Chautauqua to be held June 17-21, will open tomorrow at Valparaiso University’s ball park. The afternoon sessions will be devoted to a junior frolic and a ticket hunt for juniors will be a feature. The tent and other equipment arrived yesterday.

Note: A chautauqua was an adult education and social movement in the United States, highly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Chautauqua assemblies expanded and spread throughout rural America until the mid-1920s and brought entertainment and culture through speakers, teachers, musicians, showmen, preachers, and specialists of the day.

June 17, 1921

Harry R. Curran, owner, and L.W. Hart, manager of Montdale Stock Farm, have returned from Springfield, Mass., where they attended the Ayrshire Breeders’ Association meeting and national sale on June 7. Mr. Curran purchased seven head of fine registered stock.

The Rev. Father Griffith, priest-in-charge of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, will begin his thirty-eighth year in the ministry today. Next Sunday being his first in the thirty-eighth year, he has invited his parishioners and friends to worship with him at 9 o’clock in the morning.

June 18, 1921

The U. S. China Company will expend nearly $100,000 ($1,491,921.79 in 2021) on its plant at Chesterton. Theodore Dittell, head of the company, is awaiting untangling of certain legal matters before awarding the contract. The present force of twenty-five workers will be increased to 300.

The drought of the past two weeks is raising havoc with the oats crop, and even with heavy rains little benefit will accrue. Small fruits are also suffering. The corn crop is still holding its own, though the rain is badly needed. The crop shows the best prospects in years, it is said.

June 19, 1921

R.C. Breth, of Canton, Ill., today assumed the secretaryship of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. This week he will attend the first directors’ meeting when the active program of the community service will be outlined.

Willard Hall, located on East Monroe Street in Valparaiso and owned by Charles Hershman, is being changed from a students’ rooming house into a light housekeeping apartment.

June 20, 1921

The annual recital of music pupils of St. Paul’s Academy was given last evening at Community Hall. The pupils were assisted by an orchestra composed of Charles Coyer, E. J. Salisbury, Charles Whitehead, Richard Fabing, William Johnston, Edward Auzola, Mr. Lewis, and Bernard Finnegan.

June 21, 1921

A carload of tubercular cattle, twenty-five in number, were shipped to the Union Stockyards, Chicago, today. The cattle are reactors under a recent test for tuberculosis. They will be slaughtered under government inspection. The owners are compensated by the government and state up to $130 ($1,939.50 in 2021) and salvage for purebred and up to $65 ($969.75 in 2021) salvage for a grade.

June 22, 1921

The wool committee appointed by the Porter County Farmers’ Association has announced that enough wool has been listed to make a minimum load of 16,000 pounds. Bags will soon be distributed to the shippers.

June 23, 1921

The electric lighting equipment at the Pageant of Progress given by the American Legion at the fair grounds was put out of commission last evening at 10 o’clock when one of the transformers burned out. It was necessary to go to Michigan City for repairs. The burned transformer was one secured for Valparaiso University to provide additional light for the new vocational training students.

Funeral services for Charles F. Weiseman, of Furnessville, who died at Comercy, Grance, January 6, 1919, were held at the Lutheran Church at Porter, Sunday, in charge of the American Legion. Weiseman was born at Furnessville on December 5, 1892. Surviving are a widow, whom he married before he left for camp, one sister, and two brothers.

June 24, 1921

Valparaiso Odd Fellowship will stage a gala event here July 2 when a canton and ladies’ auxiliary will be mustered in. Valparaiso years ago had one of the largest cantons in the state. The organization finally disbanded and the members affiliated with the Gary canton. The local canton will consist of thirty members. A parade and military ball in the Valparaiso University gym will be features of the meeting.

Ben and August Koselke have leased oil rights on their farm in Jackson Township to Chicago men who will begin drilling two oil wells. Oil was struck in that vicinity several years ago. The Chicago men expect to go down 1,200 feet.

June 25, 1921

O. P. Kinsey, of Valparaiso, has made a gift of a free public library to the city of Freeport, Ohio, where he formerly lived. A property in Freeport has been purchased for a site for the library building. Mr. and Mrs. Kinsey and his sisters, Sarah and Arminda, have had in mind the building of the library in Freeport for a number of years. It is their intention to deed a home and 300 acres of land for the maintenance of a library. Large coal deposits on the farm make the land valuable.

Charles Chester, who has been assistant superintendent of the factory for the Pioneer Truck Company, has been promoted to the superintendency of the local plant. The company is expecting to reach the peak of construction of trucks inside of a few weeks. During the last two weeks many machines have been shipped to Chicago.

June 26, 1921

The state appellate court has affirmed the decision of the Lake Circuit Court in the case of Charles F. Leeks and others, of Boone Township, Porter County, against William Schleman. The plaintiffs brought suit to enjoin the defendant from building a channel from the Breyfogle Ditch to the Phillips Ditch and diverting the waters of the former ditch to the Phillips Ditch. They contend the waters from the Breyfogle Ditch would, in time, clog up the Phillips Ditch. The case has been in litigation for three years.

The Pageant of Progress given by the World’s Fair Shows under the auspices of the local American Legion post last week was a financial success. Toney Poleria, federal board student at the university, won the Ford car. Robert Louis, seven-months-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Farrington, won the baby contest. Miss Margaret Timmons was queen of the pageant.

June 27, 1921

The annual meeting of stockholders of the Altruria Dormitory Company was held last evening. The following directors were elected for the ensuing year: Peter Schuldt, E. W. Chaffee, Mrs. Anna Morony, C. W. Benton, G. M. Dodge, W. A. Hoffman and A. W. Williams. Officers named were: G. M. Dodge, president; Anna Morony, vice-president, and C. W. Benton, secretary-treasurer.

June 28, 1921

The Northwestern Indiana Telephone Company is installing one of the largest cables ever used in Valparaiso. The cable is twice as large as any heretofore used and contains 804 wires. The cable runs underground for several blocks in the business district.

June 29, 1921

Joseph Leurs, proprietor of the Kouts Department Store, yesterday sold the business to the Shutske Brothers, of Pleasant Township. The Schleman-Morton Company of Valparaiso engineered the deal, involving $30,000 ($447,576.54 in 2021). Mr. Leurs took, in part, payment of an eighty-acre farm. The deal is the third in Kouts this year, including W. S. Bush selling his hardware and lumber yard to H. G. Spencer, and J. T. Cannon and Son selling their general merchandise store to Hammond parties.

Fishing in the Kankakee River is no good, according to reports brought here by Deputy Game Wardens Gregg Stansell and J. H. Randall. Mr. Stansell, who was formerly police chief in Valparaiso, stated that the change of the river course by dredging has ruined the former abodes of fish. He said the Tippecanoe River is alive with fish at the present time.

June 30, 1921

A horseshoe court is being installed on the vacant lot just east of the city hall in downtown Valparaiso (present-day location of Aster & Gray and the MUG). Edward Cowdrey, champion of the steel company at Gary, will meet all comers. Mr. Cowdrey played a series of games yesterday at Gary and made 111 points, 105 of which were from ringers.

A Valparaiso citizen has suggested that the school board sell the Wolf property at the corner of Washington and Chicago Streets in the downtown and purchase the Porter County Fair Grounds for a building site for a new high school.

Looking Back • May 1921

May 1, 1921

The Valparaiso Athletics blanked the Boone Grove baseball team Sunday at the fairgrounds by a score of 4 to 0. Sides pitched for the Athletics and Maloney for Boone Grove.

The riot cases against Thomas Dandalet, Arthur Engstrom and Baldwin McLennon, star athletes at Valparaiso University, growing out of a row between opposing factions at the university over President Daniel Russell Hodgdon, were dismissed in Justice T. B. Louderback’s court today. The three defendants and Frank W. Thomas, the complaining witness, were in court. Following a conference between Prosecutor J. S. Bartholomew and Thomas the cases were nolle prossed (dismissed).

May 2, 1921

At a meeting of the official board of the M. E. church last evening the proposition of building an addition to the church was discussed. A committee was appointed to formulate plans. The addition if built would be constructed on the north side of the present structure and would include space for a gym. The improvement would cost $20,000.

Charles L. Jeffrey, Mandel R. Lowenstine, and George F. Beach returned this morning from Washington, D. C., where they went last Friday to confer with the government federal vocational board in regard to closing a contract to bring 500 students here to the university for training under the vocation board act. The contract is expected to be closed within a few days.

May 3, 1921

E. W. Agar, city attorney of Valparaiso, won the republican mayoralty nomination yesterday. He defeated R. D. Raymond and Eugene Hodges. John R. Burch and B. D. McMahan were nominated for councilman-at-large; E. S. Miller, first ward; S. E. Collins, second ward; Louis Gast, third ward; Blaine Williams, fourth ward.

May 4, 1921

Charles L. Jeffrey, chairman of the board of trustees of Valparaiso University, announced that the contract between the university and the government for the training of 500 students under the federal vocational board act had been accepted, according to a telegram received from Washington. A government representative will be here in a few days to make arrangements to remodel the buildings and install the necessary machinery. It is said the government will spend $100,000 in providing equipment for training the men. The contract runs for one year.

May 5, 1921

The Kiwanis Club reported today that a wonderful battery had been uncovered for the coming clash with the Rotary Club at Brown Field. The Kiwanians refuse to divulge the identity of the two star players discovered, it is said, during a recent dinner. O. F. Helvie, of the Rotary Club, on receipt of the news wore a worried look. E. D. Hodges, Dr. Stoner, W. J. Morris and other heavies of the Rotary Club are losing weight over the Kiwanis find.

S. J. Brown, of the Chatfield Grain Company, of Chatfield, O., is in the city making arrangements for the remodeling of the old Valparaiso Grain Elevator building on South Washington Street at the Pennsylvania tracks. The Chatfield Grain Company recently purchased the building and will remodel it. The company will sell coal, cement, and fertilizers.

May 6, 1921

Charles Specht, owner of Burlington Beach, Flint Lake, has sold his property to John Kostjal, of Gary. The resort consists of 32 acres and a number of buildings. The place has been in the Specht family for 25 years. Mr. Kostjal for a number of years conducted a resort at Miller Beach.

Several representatives of the government were here from Washington yesterday inspecting buildings at the university for the purpose of drawing plans and specifications for the alteration of the structures for training of 500 men to be sent here under the federal vocational training act. An army physician and nurse will be sent here by the government for active duty.

May 7, 1921

A photograph was taken this morning at university ball park of students attending the university. The picture was panoramic view and also included members of the faculty. The large number in the picture occasioned surprise for many people who witnessed the photographing. The students stated that everyone in the picture was one hundred percent American.

County Superintendent Fred H. Cole has been distinctly honored in the book: “Who’s Who and Why in After War Education,” published by the Institute for Public Service, New York City. The Valparaiso man’s sketch is included in the book and a good-sized space is devoted to his accomplishments. Only 1,800 names are listed in the book, persons who have been responsible for forward steps in education.

May 8, 1921

E. W. Agar, republican nominee for Valparaiso mayor at the recent primary election, has received a letter of congratulation from United States Senator Harry New. Senator New expressed the hope that Mr. Agar will be successful in the November election.

Melvin J. Stinchfield, a former Valparaiso boy, who has been connected with a Pittsburgh construction concern in Chicago, has been appointed by Governor McCray as assistant date engineer with offices in the state building at Indianapolis. Mr. Stinchfield left Saturday for Indianapolis to assume his new duties.

May 9, 1921

Waverly Beach, Lake Michigan, where many drownings have taken place, will soon be equipped with a pulmotor. The boy scouts of Porter are behind the movement to obtain one for emergency purposes. Sunday the boys took up subscriptions from persons visiting the beach, and probably a hundred persons contributed from fifty cents to one dollar.

Deputy Sheriff Gust Long, who has been deputy under Sheriff William Pennington since the latter took office, will resign his position tomorrow and take a position with the Foster Lumber and Coal Company.

May 10, 1921

The pickle factory building at the Grand Trunk station owned by Reid, Murdoch and Company, has been sold to Mark Palmer, local Ford auto dealer. He will use the building for unloading, storing and assembling Ford autos, tractors and farm machinery.

May 11, 1921

The Foster Lumber and Coal Company was yesterday awarded the contract by the government for alteration of buildings at Valparaiso University to be used by 500 students to be sent here for vocational training. The appropriation calls for an expenditure of approximately $35,000. The repairs cover Heritage Hall, Lembke, Domestic Science, Elocution, Commercial Hall and the medical building. The government will spend $100,000 in alteration of buildings and installing new machinery and other changes. The work must be completed by June 1.

May 12, 1921

Three hundred and ninety-five boy scouts of the scout area, comprising LaPorte and Porter counties, will again join the South Bend scouts in summer camp, according to a decision reached at the area meeting at the Rumely hotel at LaPorte Tuesday afternoon. The committee is comprised of W. B. Brown, Michigan City, chairman; Earl V. Smith, Valparaiso, and J. V. Dilworth, of LaPorte. The South Bend camp, Camp Bryan, is located near Wakeklee, Mich.

Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce through its board of directors today took action to assist the city administration in bringing about a solution of the pressing and disconcerting downtown parking problem. A committee was appointed to look into the feasibility of purchasing or renting a centrally located lot for parking purposes, and two or three were submitted for consideration. The chamber is committed to some program that will afford accommodations to motorists. Through the new parallel parking ordinance affecting the north side of Lincolnway through the business section the congestion problem has become even more annoying.

May 13, 1921

Gus Demos, proprietor of the Up-to-Date Dry Cleaners, announced today that the new building on North Washington Street would be ready inside of three weeks. The building is of cement block and is being built by Paul E. Marks. Mr. Demos came here from Cincinnati O., following his discharge from the army.

Chesterton is to have a new library to open in September. Trustee G. J. Johnson and Superintendent, F. M. Goldsborough have been working on the project for several years and enough money has been procured through taxation in the township to provide for its establishment. The location of the new library has not been determined.

May 14, 1921

The St. Michael’s American Russian National Orphans’ Home and Institution are selling lots to Russian members of the organization in the tract of 1,355 acres purchased by the society of the Robbins estate in Portage Township. The land cost the society $200,000. Yesterday twenty deeds were placed on file in the recorder’s office. The east half of section 29 in Portage township was subdivided by the society into lots for building purposes.

May 15, 1921

A big steam shovel, weighing thirty tons, and equipped with tractor wheels, is being used by P.T. Clifford and Son in the construction of the Hanrahan road in Center and Liberty townships. The Hanrahan road is six miles long and more than 38,000 cubic yards of dirt must be moved. A number of hills are being cut down along the route.

Valparaiso High School did not score a point in the Northern Indiana Track and Field meet at Notre Dame, South Bend, Saturday. Coach R. E. Schenck took three men to the meet—Thomas Clifford, Charles Riddle and Herman Mohnssen. The competition was too stiff in the events the men were entered and none of them was able to annex a point.

May 16, 1921

A white frost last night did incalculable damage to garden truck and small fruits throughout the county. Garden truck was sipped, strawberries and other small fruits were damaged. Hardy garden crops escaped.

Valparaiso University defeated Kalamazozo college Saturday afternoon at Brown Field, 3 to 2. “Iefty” Higgins, on the mound for Valpo, beat Fenner, Kazoo pitcher, given a tryout last spring by the Chicago White Sox. Higgins allowed but four hits. Gilbert’s work at third base featured.

May 17, 1921

The Inland Steel Company of Indiana Harbor, yesterday placed on record in the county recorder’s office deeds to 335 acres of land in Portage Township, purchased of the Crumpacker estate of Hammond. The consideration was $103.50. The land acquired is south of 219 acres purchased by the company quite some time ago. 

May 18, 1921

A “History of Valparaiso University,” has just been completed by George W. Stimpson and will be ready for distribution next week. The history commences with the founding of the school and traces its development down to the present administration. The most interesting feature of the book is the chapters on the recent revolution. Mr. Stimpson was on the inside of the revolution and knows many things not known by the average student.

May 19, 1921

Dr. George Keogan, acting director of athletics and coach at Valparaiso University, for the last two years, today tendered his resignation to the board of trustees of the school and the same was accepted. Before coming here Dr. Keogan was coach at St. Thomas college, Great lakes Naval Training station, and Allegheny College. He has received several offers to coach, including one at Notre Dame.

An architect from the M. E. church Sunday school board of Chicago, was in the city today conferring with a committee on improvements of the local M. E. church. Some time ago the church organizers decided on enlarging the present structure to make more room for the Sunday school quarters and installation of a gym. The possibility of obtaining these enlarged quarters either through use of present basement or through an addition on the north part of the lot will be considered by the architect and building committee.

May 20, 1921

L. R. Gignillant, state commander Indiana American Legion, and Frank McHale, chairman of the Americanization committee, may make an investigation of reports of radical tendencies on part of persons attending Valparaiso University, it was learned today. Dr. Daniel Russell Hodgdon, president of the school, after resigning his post, asserted the school was a hotbed of radicalism.

G. G. Shauer and Sons yesterday awarded the contract for construction of the Premier Theatre on the site of the old Hotel Spindler site to C. F. Lembke and Company of Valparaiso. Work will be commenced tomorrow. The structure will be 72 by 132 feet, and will contain an auditorium seating 1,032 persons, two store rooms, and six suites of offices.

May 21, 1921

Grand Trunk trainmen frustrated an attempt to rob a merchandise train at the Clifford Crossing, west of here. The robbers out an air hose. When trainmen went to repair it, the robbers fired on them. A detective on the train replied with a volley of shots.

H. Leigh Lawrence, rector of an Episcopal church at Menominee, Mich, is here visiting his parents, Mr. an Mrs. J. A. Lawrence.

May 22, 1921

Fred Marquart was appointed Saturday by the county commissioners as county assessor to succeed Ezra Brody, deceased. Mr. Marquart has been acting as assessor during Brody’s illness. He formerly served as Center Township assessor.

 After laying dormant for 18 years an oil well dug by W. J. Henry, east of Woodville Junction, has been uncapped and Mr. Henry and Mark R. Palmer will give it a thorough pumping to ascertain whether it will produce in paying quantities.

May 23, 1921

J. M. Wilcoxen, of Hammond, won the registered shoot held at Flint Lake yesterday by the Valpo Gun Club. He broke 142 of 150. Dr. E.H. Powell, Valparaiso, and Bert Lewis, West Alron, Ill., pro, broke 140. W.H. Hunsley broke 139, and Ora Gray and Sol Freidheim 138 apiece.

Three of five men who attempted robbery of a Grand Trunk merchandise train west of the city, were captured in Chicago Saturday when Clarence Burmeister, one of the men wounded in a gun battle with a railroad detective, applied at the Jefferson Park hospital for treatment. Two men who took Burmeister to the hospital for treatment. Two men who took Burmeister to the hospital were also arrested. The trio were brought here to Porter County Jail.

May 24, 1921

George Downing, operator of a garage and auto repair shop at Garfield and LaPorte Road, will open up a restaurant and grocery in a new addition next to the garage Mrs. Downing will be in charge of the new business.

May 25, 1921 

The Valparaiso Auto Sales Company has leased the R.D. Ross and Son building on West Lincolnway, formerly occupied by W. A. Stimson agency. Possession will be taken over on June 1. The company will move there from its present location on Washington Street across from the chamber of commerce.

May 26, 1921

The Valparaiso Kiwanis Club received its charter last night at a dinner meeting held at Altruria Hall. More than 100 attended, 58 being members of the club. Col. J. L. McCullock, of Marion, presented the charter to President George R. Douglas of the local club. Mayor P. L. Sisson gave the welcome address.

Joseph L. Doyle, former secretary and clerk of the Porter County Draft Board, said there were only three evaders of the select draft in the county. Twenty men were listed as non-wilful deserters, but a number of these enlisted elsewhere. 

May 27, 1921

Memorial Opera House was filled to capacity last evening by friends and patrons of Valparaiso High School who gathered to honor the class of 1921. The address of the evening was delivered by State Superintendent L. N. Hines. There were forty-one graduates.

The Valparaiso Lighting Company will try the new McDonald process of manufacturing gas at its plant June 1. The plant was constructed by Mr. McDonald who has been working for a number of years.

May 28, 1921

Joseph Demarggio, of Gary, who has operated the Red Bus Line in Gary, for the last seven years, will start a line between Valparaiso and Sheridan Beach. He will operate a Packard bus seating between thirty-five and forty persons. Trips will be made between the city and lake every half hour.

C. R. Bret, secretary of chamber of commerce at Canton, Ill., may be employed as manager of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. E.D. Hodges will be retained as manager. The appointment will probably be made at a meeting of the directors next Wednesday.

May 29, 1921

The ride tickets to Chicago on the local steam roads, transferable will soon be a thing of the past. On July 1, only 25, 46, and 54-ride tickets, good to individual purchasers and his family will be sold. 

Attorney Ralph N. Smith, of Laporte, will return from Hot Springs, Ark., the coming week to prepare the defense of Engineer William Long and Fireman George Block, charged by Coroner A. O. Seipel with responsibility of the Porter wreck in which forty persons lost their lives. The case is set down for trial June 6. The defense will try to place the responsibility on the towerman at Porter.

May 30, 1921

On May 30, 1901, eight students of Valparaiso University, who sat at the same table in one of the dining halls, agreed to meet on the west steps of the court house on May 30, 1921. W.C. Mulroy, of Ponca City, Okla., was the only member signing the agreement to show up.

May 31, 1921

A big road grader, largest ever brought to Porter County, arrived today and will be used on a big fill on an old road near Deep River, which was shifted 100 feet. It weighs four tons and carries a 12 foot blade or scoop. George T. Pearce, county road superintendent, and Joseph Wilgen, assistant, are in charge.

Looking Back • April 1921

April 1, 1921

Funeral services for Martin J. Gabel, who lost his life in fighting in the Argonne during the World War will be held in the court house yard Sunday afternoon at 2 o’clock. The American Legion will be in charge. Rev. Guy O. Carpenter who served in the navy during the war, will officiate. A military funeral will be held. The body of the dead soldier arrived here last night and was met at the depot by a guard of honor of the Rehabilitation Club of the university, and representatives of the American Legion, and escorted to the home of Gabel’s sister, Mrs. Jerome Spencer. A guard will be maintained until the body is removed to the court house tomorrow where it will lie in state until the funeral.

W. B. Forney, who recently completed two terms as sheriff of Porter County, has formed a partnership with C. S. Peirce in the insurance, real estate, and investment business. Mr. Peirce established the business in 1915. The new firm will be located at 6 Michigan Avenue.

April 2, 1921

County Treasurer J. G. Graessle today sold four issues of gravel road bonds. The $140,000 ($2,057,092.74 in 2021) issue in the Arthur Hanrahan Road was sold to Straus Brothers of Ligonier. The Valparaiso State Bank bought two issues in the B. F. Williams Road in Washington and Morgan Townships for $78,200 ($1,149,033.23 in 2021), and also the $34,800 ($511,334.48 in 2021) issue in the Galbreath Road in Morgan Township.

Joseph F. Crowe, county highway superintendent, has been appointed by Governor McCray as one of the delegates to the ninth annual convention of the U. S. Good Roads Association convention to be held at Greensboro, N. C., on April 18 to 20, to represent the State of Indiana.

April 3, 1921

Valparaiso paid tribute Sunday to Martin Gabel, one of its sons who gave his life in France during the World War. Funeral services were held at the court house lawn at 2 o’clock. Three thousand persons attended. Lincolnway was full and many buildings held persons. A quartet composed of Arthur and Carroll Schneider, Mrs. W. T. Conklin and Mrs. Emma Dorsey sang. Rev. J. A. Lord, pastor of the Hebron M. E. church, gassed in France, gave the text; Rev. John W. Newsome, army chaplain, the prayer: O.F. Helvie, commander Charles Pratt Post, American Legion, the post commander ritual for the dead, and Rev. Guy Carpenter, pastor of M.E. church, and navy chaplain, preached the sermon. The pallbearers were Gust Long, Don Herrick, Justin Shauer, Claude Beach, Edward Abel and Peter Young. Following the services the city band led the procession to Maplewood Cemetery. A firing squad three volleys over the grave. Fully 1,500 persons accompanied the body to the cemetery.

At the conclusion of the morning service Sunday at the Baptist church a permanent call was extended by the congregation to Rev. Clarence Mitchell, acting pastor of the church for several months. It is not known whether he will accept the call.

April 4, 1921

E. W. Agar and E. D. Hodges Saturday filed their declaration of candidacies for the office of mayor, making three now in the republican race for the office. John R. Burch, who filed for mayor, but withdrew, filed for councilman at large. A.L. Lebrercque also filed for councilman and large, and Fred Comstock filed for councilman in the Third ward.

Father John Quinlan, rector of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception at Fort Wayne, and a native of Valparaiso, died Sunday morning at 7:25 o’clock. He was born in Valparaiso on April 19, 1858. He was a relative of Mr. and Mrs. P. W. Clifford and Mrs. Mary Stokes, of Valparaiso.

April 5, 1921

The old frame building on Lincolnway next to the Horn Brothers’ meat market was sold by its owners, Horn Brothers, to Edward Jones, who will tear it down and use the materials to build summer homes at Flint Lake. James M. Sheldon, owner of the flower shop, is negotiating for the purchase of the William Pennington flower shop on Indiana Avenue, owned by Lauren Maudlin.

April 6, 1921

“Five Hundred” night was observed last night at Masonic hall by Porter Lodge, No. 137, Free and Accepted Masons. The Master Mason degree was conferred on one candidate, bringing membership up to the 500 mark. More than 400 members attended the meeting. Westville, Chesterton and Hebron had large delegations. The Apollo Quartet furnished music. The dispensation of Porter Lodge was granted on June 25, 1850, and the charter was dated May 27, 1852.

April 7, 1921

Joseph L. Doyle, who served as secretary of the Porter County Registration Board during the draft, is assisting ex-service men in obtaining information regarding their order and serial numbers. Before sending the list to Washington he made a copy of the data.

J.M. Sheldon, who has been conducting a flower shop on Lincolnway, has bought the Lauren Maudlin flower ship on Indiana Avenue. Mr. Maudlin will enter Valparaiso University under the Federal Vocational Board Training Act.

April 8, 1921

A meeting of K. of P. lodges was held at Hebron last night with 228 members from Hebron, Valparaiso and Chesterton attending. The third rank was conferred upon five candidates. The next meeting will be held in Valparaiso in May.

A.R. Hardesty was elected president of the Valparaiso University Alumni held at Million Dollar headquarters last night. Other officers named were: R. D. Raymond and Mrs. Mary Stiles, vice-presidents; Paul Marks, secretary, and Earl V. Smith, treasurer. 

April 9, 1921

George Huitema,  official tester of Porter County Testing Association, has gone to his home at New Paris, Ind., to recover from an attack of the mumps. County Agent A.Z. Arehart is attempting to obtain a substitute tester.

Constitution and bylaws of the Porter County Realtors’ Association were adopted at a meeting last night. Ten members signed up and others signified their intention of doing so.

April 10, 1921

The Charfield Grain Company, of Chatfield, O., may establish a flour mill here. The company has made a bid on the old Valparaiso Grain and Elevator building on South Washington Street and if acquired will remodel it and install machinery for the making of flour. The Chatfield Company owns a number of mills and granaries in Ohio and Indiana.

The Bogarte Book Store on College Hill was burglarized last evening and loot valued at between $500 ($7,346.76 in 2021) and $1,000 ($14,693.52 in 2021) taken. The principal part of the loot consisted of special drawing instruments, valued as high as $30 ($440.81 in 2021) per set.

April 11, 1921

John D. Frechete, of this city, has been granted a patent on an easy walking shoe by the Canadian patent office. The shoe absorbs shocks and prevents moisture from penetrating from the bottom while permitting absorption from the inside.

The Valparaiso Kiwanis Club at its meeting today effected a permanent organization by electing V.R. Despard president; L. H. Trott, secretary, and T. L. Applegate, treasurer.

April 12, 1921

A struggle for supremacy between two factions of university students has resulted in the principals getting into court. Frank W. Thomas has filed an affidavit in Justice T. B. Louderback’s court against Baldwin McLennon, Arthur Engstrom and Thomas Dandalet, charging assault. Many students and faculty members have been subpoenaed for the trial set for Saturday.

April 13, 1921

A suit brought by William Muster against J. O. Ellis, county fair promoter last year, is still pending in the courts. Muster sued for $175 for services in connection with the fair. A writ of attachment was obtained against Ellis’ trunks. A cash bond was put up and the trunks released. Yesterday a change of venue was taken from Justice Louderback’s court on the ground that he is a material witness in the case.

April 14, 1921

The Chatfield Grain Elevator Company of Chatfield, O., has purchased the old Valparaiso grain elevator on South Washington Street, for $1,710 ($25,125.92 in 2021). The structure will be torn down and a new one erected.

Arbor Day will be observed at the Pinney-Purdue Farm, near Wanatah, tomorrow by the planting of 500 trees. Maples, Birch and Ash found along the Kankakee will be planted. They will replace a grove that has died.

April 15, 1921

Fares on Gary and Interurban from Valparaiso to points north of Sheridan Beach, Flint Lake, were reduced by directors of the road yesterday. The rates were cut from 21 cents to 15 and 19 cents. The directors also decided to operate cars on the Chesterton division. A one-man car will be operated between Woodville and Chesterton.

The Farmers State Bank today received 200 safety deposit boxes. The boxes on hand have all been rented.

April 16, 1921

The first of the claims growing out of the wreck at Porter in which 37 died was settled at Michigan City yesterday when Lynn Kramer, administrator of the estate of Mrs. Barney Kramer of Michigan City, settled with the Michigan Central railroad for $7,000 ($102,854.64 in 2021).

Cases against three students of Valparaiso University, charged with assault and battery on another student, were continued in Justice T.B. Louderback’s court today. It is believed the case will be settled.

April 17, 1921

The Knights of Columbus degree team went to Mishawaka yesterday where it conferred upon a class of candidates for the Notre Dame Council. T. P. Galvin, district deputy, was in charge. Thirty members of the local lodge attended a banquet at the Oliver hotel after the work.

The McMahan-Wood Company, on East Lincolnway, is enlarging its building with the addition of two stories and a basement. The company now has 25 jobbers in five states on its cereal products.

April 18, 1921

Freezing weather over the weekend did damage to the fruit crop in Porter County. Saturday the temperature registered 25 degrees above. Snow fell and ice froze in many places. Cherries were practically killed and peaches suffered. Grapes are gone, but plums, pears, and apples were not injured.

The Bloch Hotel on Lincolnway is being improved. The pool room in the rear is being removed and the restaurant will be extended to the full length of the building.

April 19, 1921

Broncho John Sullivan, of this city, was given a feature writeup in the April 4 issue of the Florida Times-Union, published at Jacksonville. He recently visited Jacksonville after an absence of 23 years. Mr. Sullivan was chief trainmaster at Camp Cuba Libre, Jacksonville, during the Spanish-American War.

April 20, 1921

Valparaiso University enjoys the unusual distinction this quarter of occupying the front page of the American Magazine, published by the American Historical Society. The article is written by President Daniel Russell Hogdon, and comprises 13 pages, with profuse illustrations of the school buildings.

April 21, 1921

Henry Pahl, who was appointed third commissioner to act with county ditch commissioner Andrew Bickel in the Smith Ditch, qualified yesterday and the work of getting the ditch ready for construction will proceed. The petition to establish the Smith Ditch was filed three years ago by residents living around Wolff’s Corners who have complained of lack of drainage.

The Notre Dame University Glee Club made its second appearance here last night under the auspices of the Valparaiso Knights of Columbus Lodge. A large crowd greeted the entertainers. “The Soldiers’ Chorus,” from Faust was one of the best of the glee club members. Walter O’Keefe supplied the specialty numbers which were thoroughly enjoyed.

April 22, 1921

The elevator at the Aylesworth Switch in Boone Township has been sold by Charles Ray, of Kouts, and William Dahl, of LaCrosse, to the Farmers’ Equity Union of Hebron, made up of Boone and Porter Township farmers. The capacity of the elevator is 18,000 bushels. It is located along the Pan Handle Railroad.

Prof. Rolla A. Tallcott, Dean of the Department of Expression at Valparaiso University has tendered his resignation and will go to Indianapolis about June 1, to engage in chautauqua work this summer. In the fall he will give part of his time in instruction at Butler College and Indiana College of Music and Fine Arts.

April 23, 1921

The Farmers’ Equity Union of Hebron, composed of farmers of Boone and Porter Townships has purchased the Hebron elevator of D. A. Fisher & Son. This makes the second elevator purchased by the society, the one at Aylesworth having been purchased last week. The Farmers’ Equity Union will also build an elevator at Hurlburt, plans for the building having been drawn by the Alliance Company of Indianapolis.

The Porter County War Memorial Building Board met Saturday afternoon at the county commissioners room in the court house. Members of the board were present. The members in the north and south parts of the county were in favor of deferring action until a later date. The present high taxes was advanced by out of town members for postponement of the building.

April 24, 1921

Odd Fellows and Rebekahs yesterday observed the 102nd anniversary of the founding of Oddfellowship in United States. One hundred and fifty persons attended services at M. E. church and listened to a sermon by Rev. Guy O. Carpenter. Clarence Field acted as marshal of the day, assisted by G. G. Sherwood in charge of the Rebekahs. A dinner was served at Odd Fellows Hall after the services.

Valparaiso University defeated the House of Davis team of Benton Harbor at Brown Field yesterday 14 to 0. Adams and Higgins pitched for Valparaiso with Tree catching. The university scored seven runs in the seventh inning on five hits and three errors.

April 25, 1921

A new gas-making device is being installed at the Valparaiso Lighting Company on South Napoleon Street, John W. Wood, of Indianapolis, and W. D. McDonald, of Chicago, are the promoters of the experiment. The plant to be erected will cost $25,000 ($367,337.99 in 2021). If the plan proves successful, the local company will take it over. The new plant makes gas out of coal, leaving no by-products.

At a meeting of the Board of Trustees of Valparaiso University today at noon, Dr. Daniel Russell Hodgdon resigned as president of the school. John E. Roessler, for nearly thirty years an instructor in the school, was named as acting president. A. A. Williams, another instructor, was named acting vice-president.

April 26, 1921

The long line of living ex-sheriffs of Porter County was broken last night when Charles W. Dickover was claimed by death. Porter County has the distinction of having men living who served as sheriff for 45 years back. James Malone, oldest living ex-sheriff, served two terms from 1876 to 1880. He was followed by C. W. Dickover, Elias Thomas, Shedd Herrick, Joseph Sego, Heber Stoddard, Charles Green, Charles LaCount, Lewis Green, Clayton Wood, W. S. Lindall and W. B. Forney.

April 27, 1921

The Windle building, 122 East Lincolnway, occupied by the Valparaiso Auto and Carriage Trimming Company, will be remodeled by its owner, W.G. WIndle. The building will be occupied upon its completion by W.G. Windle & Son, grocers, now located in the Urbahns’ building. The Valparaiso Auto and Carriage Trimming Company will move to the Valparaiso Electrical Sales Company next door east.

April 28, 1921

Officers of the Rehabilitation Club, Valparaiso University, have issued a statement declaring that recent newspaper account picturing Valparaiso University as a hotbed of bolshevism and communism is pure bunk. The origin of the news articles is believed due to the recent breach between President D. R. Hodgdon and students, which resulted in the president’s resignation.

Porter County will have twelve entrants for the state five-acre corn contest. J. A. Warren captured the honor last year with 127.75 bushels.

April 29, 1921

Charles L. Jeffery, M. R. Lowenstine and George F. Beach, trustees of Valparaiso University, will leave today for Washington, D. C., to confer for representatives of the government board for vocational training. A contract is expected to be signed which will bring between 5,000 and 10,000 men here for training at the local school.

The annual Valparaiso High School play, “Boomerang,” was given last night at Memorial Opera House. Miss Beulah Bondy directed the play. Players taking part were Tom Morony, Bartlett Marimon, Stephen Corboy, Jr., Bernard Finnigan, Harold Wood, Phyllis Stinchfield, Bessie Long, Edith Small, and Dorothy Bartholomew.

April 30, 1921

Members of the American Legion were called to the university this morning to notify men in a rooming house that a red flag containing a skull and cross bones be taken down. When a second visit was made to the place the flag was missing.

An involuntary petition in bankruptcy was filed at Indianapolis Thursday against the Hess Mercury Carburetor Company of Valparaiso and Kokomo. Creditors who filed the claims allege the company owes them $2,482.93 ($36,482.98 in 2021).

Looking Back • March 1921

March 1, 1921

Governor Warren McCray, five members of the public service commission, County Attorney Grant Crumpacker and Coroner H. O. Seipel will meet here Friday to investigate the railroad wreck at Porter which caused the death of thirty-seven persons.

Sidney J. Winter, of Stearns and Company, Chicago, were here yesterday looking over location of factory for manufacture of china ware. The company will deposit $25,000 in a local bank, providing chamber of commerce furnishes 12 acres of land and $12,000 toward erection of a building. Investors will be given preferred and common stock.

March 2, 1921

All bodies of persons losing their lives in the railroad wreck at Porter last Sunday night were identified today. The total dead was thirty-seven. The list had been placed at forty-four. The engine of the New York Central Railroad which plowed through the passenger coach of the Michigan Central Railroad train was lifted this afternoon. No bodies were found under it. Dr. Clement Briggs, of Chicago, by his attorney, Robert H. Moore, today filed mandamus action to compel Dr. H. O. Seipel to hold an immediate inquest over the wreck dead. Hearing on the application will be heard Wednesday by Judge H. L. Crumpacker.

Herbert Schleman, of this city, who is attending the University of Wisconsin, will leave soon for Paris, France, to do newspaper syndicate work and attend lectures at the Sarbonne, one of the departments of the University of Paris. He will be gone a year.

March 3, 1921

Dr. Daniel Russell Hodgdon, president of Valparaiso University, today received a photograph from President-elect Warren G. Harding, who takes office tomorrow. On the bottom of the picture is the following inscription: “To President Daniel Russell Hodgdon with best wishes for continued success in a great and good work. Sincerely, Warren G. Harding.” Dr. Hodgdon is an old friend of the Harding family. He also received a personal letter from the president wishing him success at Valparaiso University.

Louis Pahl, of this city, today closed the deal for the purchase of the Minnie Kamerer property, near Joliet Bridge. He will erect a garage building covering the site. The location catches the incoming and outgoing traffic on Lincoln Highway.

March 4, 1921

Probe of the railroad wreck at Porter Sunday night between New York Central and Michigan Central Railroad trains in which thirty-seven persons lost their lives, was started today in the court house here by Dr. Herman O. Seipel, coroner of Porter County. Prominent railroad officials were present for the hearing. Trainmen and signal men were the first witnesses called.

The Lowell High School basketball team eliminated the Valparaiso High School team in the first game of the sectional tourney at Gary this afternoon by a score of 18 to 10. Valpo led at half time, 6 to 4.

March 5, 1921

Charges of involuntary manslaughter were filed today in Porter Circuit Court against W. S. Long, engineer; and George Block, fireman, of the New York Central train which figured in the crash with the Michigan Central train at Porter on Sunday night, resulting in the deaths of thirty-seven persons. Long’s bond was fixed at $5,000, and Block’s at $3,500. They were arrested but later posted bond for their release.

The Wheeler school was condemned today by Dr. G. R. Douglas, county health officer, acting on instructions from the state board of health. The school was inspected several weeks ago by a state deputy. Use of the building after June 15 for school purposes is positively prohibited.

March 6, 1921

Whiting won the sectional basketball tourney Saturday in Gary when it won over Lowell, 22 to 8. Whiting defeated Emerson and Fair Oaks to win its way to the finals. Wickhorst was the star of the Whiting team.

Cash fares on the Gary-Valparaiso Interurban were increased Saturday from 3 to 3.6 cents per mile. The increase does not apply to monthly tickets. The increase in fare between Valparaiso and Gary is from 55 to 65 cents.

March 7, 1921

Whiting and Emerson High Schools captured all places on the first all-sectional basketball team selected by coaches and officials at the Gary tourney last week. The first team includes Sibley, Emerson, rf; Burke, Whiting, lf; Sturtridge, Emerson, c; Thiesen, Whiting, rg. The second team comprises: Underwort, Brook, f; Hayden, Lowell, lf; Larsh, Rensselaer, c; Lyons, Brooks, rg; Olson, Froebel, lg; Scott, of Valparaiso received honorable mention.

The Porter County Board of Commissioners went to Gary today to attend a meeting of the Interstate Commerce Commission and Public Service Commission in regard to investigating the railroad wreck at Porter which claimed thirty-seven lives. The commissioners will seek to have conditions such as exist at Porter brought to the attention of the commissions and railroad officials.

March 8, 1921

At Gary, a secret investigation of the Porter wreck was held in which thirty-seven persons were killed. Two members of the Interstate Commerce Commission and two from the Indiana Public Service commission were present. Grant Crumpacker, county attorney, was the only one present representing Porter County. Coroner H. O. Seipel and the county were refused admittance. The same witnesses were examined as appeared here at the coroner’s inquest. Railroad officials and attorneys for the railroads attended. No finding was announced. The Porter County board conferred with railroad officials and the commission members about elevating the tracks but no decision was reached.

March 9, 1921

The Whiting basketball team, winner in the Northern Indiana sectional tourney at Gary may be eliminated from the final tourney at Purdue University through the protest from Hammond High School. It is charged Thiessem, running guard of the Whiting team has played five years. The action by Hammond is in retaliation of a complaint made by Coach Hart, of Whiting, against Cadawallader and Shelton, Hammond players, through which Hammond was suspended by the state association. If Whiting is barred, Emerson probably will be selected to go to Purdue.

March 10, 1921

By a deal consummated today, Modest Coash sold his coal business at the Nickel Plate to Edward Coash and Joseph Saunders, his son and son-in-law. Mr. Coash has been engaged in the coal business 21 years. He will embark in the sand business, having purchased the Bornholt property across from the Nickel Plate Depot. The new purchasers have taken possession.

Frank L. Longshore, who has been connected with the downstairs store of Specht-Finney Company, and Z. J. McMahan, employed in the clothing department of the same store, have leased the building formerly occupied by Chester and Son, and will open up a grocery and clothing business.

March 11, 1921

The Liberty Center school will have electric lights and telephone. Trustee Ira M. Biggs let the contracts to W. C. Bassow, of Valparaiso, for the wiring, and the Portage Home Telephone Company will install the telephone. The electric current will be furnished by the Calumet Electric Company.

The proposed annexation of tracts of land on the south edge of Chesterton, into the corporation limits of the town, will be put up to the county board of commissioners at its meeting March 21. A remonstrance against the annexation has been filed. In case the remonstrance is upheld by the commissioners, the town trustees will undoubtedly refuse to annex the other area which can be taken in merely by resolution of the town trustees.

March 12, 1921

The Indiana Supreme Court yesterday denied the petition of the Public Service Commission for a rehearing in its suit against the Valparaiso Lighting Company. The commission several years ago fixed the rates for electrical energy. Substantial reductions were made. The lighting company appealed and the case was tried before Judge Gallaher in the LaPorte circuit court. The lighting company was beaten and appealed to the high court. That body reversed the lower court. A petition for rehearing was filed. This was denied yesterday. The lighting company charged the old rates in the meantime and guaranteed to make refunds in case it was beaten.

At three meetings of business men held in the Valparaiso Chamber rooms this week, $25,000 was pledged toward the $100,000 being raised by the chamber of commerce. The remaining amount will be raised by the organization throughout the city and county.

March 13, 1921

William Wade Hinshaw, formerly of this city, president and general manager of the Society of American Singers, New York City, has announced an extended tour of a company presenting Mozart’s musical comedy, “The Impressario,” subtitled, “The Wiles of a Prima Donna.” The tour will begin next October and cover the entire country and Canada.

The American Restaurant, which opened its doors Saturday in the Foster building on Washington Street, enjoyed a good business Saturday and Sunday. Yesterday the restaurant was crowded with former patrons of Mr. Foster. The building has been remodeled throughout.

March 14, 1921

The Valparaiso Spring Water Ice Company has purchased an artificial ice making plant and the machinery has arrived here. It will soon be installed at the company’s ice house at Sager’s Lake. The company only harvested a third of a crop of ice this year at Sager’s Lake.

The business girls of Valparaiso organized under the name of the Sphinx Club, have leased rooms formerly occupied by the chamber of commerce in the Academy of Music Block. The club was formed two months ago. It will soon celebrate the event with an “open house.”

March 15, 1921

Porter County has six of the ten high cows in butterfat production in the state, according to Purdue University. Morgan Brothers, of Chesterton, captured first and second places with records of 90-8 and 76.5 pounds of butterfat. Marcene Haxton’s cow won fourth place; Tom Keene’s cows fifth and eighth, and Morgan Brothers, ninth place.

March 16, 1921

Harry Tripp and wife, Katherine Salisbury Tripp, formerly members of the Salisbury Family orchestra, are now performing in vaudeville and doing fine. Mr. Tripp is at present appearing at the State and Lake theatre, Chicago, with the Courtney Sisters, and Mrs. Tripp is in New York City in vaudeville work.

March 17, 1921

Dr. A. M. Jacoby, state and federal tester, arrived here today to make a number of retests of dairy herds in the county. About 40 herds were tested by Dr. Jacoby some time ago and retests are to be made of there.

March 18, 1921

Ford Moe, of this city, who is attached to the hospital ship, Relief, now in Cuban waters, has written a letter to his brother, Robert Moe, of the Sievers’ Drug Store. The weather there is summer heat, he says. Naval men are barred from Cuba because of the smallpox epidemic. The Relief is the master hospital ship of the world.

March 19, 1921

Mrs. Hannah E. Hauff of College City Camp, Royal Neighbors, was elected vice-oracle at the state convention held at Lafayette. She was defeated for oracle by Mrs. Fannie Voltz, Indianapolis, by a close vote.

Union Township residents today filed suit against state board of health and Union Township Trustee appealing from the condemnation order forbidding use of the Wheeler school after June 21, 1921, for school purposes. The plaintiffs say the building was built 23 years ago at cost of $25,000, and the health board move is only a pretext to get a new building.

March 20, 1921

Valparaiso Lodge of Elks last night voted to contribute $1,500 to the Valparaiso University Endowment Fund, making a total of $2,500 given by the order.

A number of prominent citizens are planning to reorganize the Porter County Agricultural Society and put on an agricultural and industrial exhibition the first week of October. Porter County has not had a first class exhibit for a number of years.

March 21, 1921

The Valparaiso Rotary Club was initiated here yesterday. At 6: 30 o’clock a banquet was served at Altruria to 167 persons. James Heron, New York City, and Walter Pittsford, Indianapolis, District Governor of Indiana, spoke. Charter members are: G. L. Maxwell, president: W. J. Morris, secretary; William Schleman, treasurer; O. F. Helvie, sergeant-at-arms; M. J. Bowman, director; B. L. Brenner, Guy O. Carpenter, E. D. Hodges, R. H. Johnston, C. L. Jeffrey, M. R. Lowenstine, Mark Palmer, Mox Ruge, Byron Smith, and Frank A. Turner.

The body of Martin Gabel, Valparaiso boy, killed in France during the World War, will arrive here tomorrow. Young Gabel was wounded in action and died several days later. Charles Pratt Post, No. 94, American Legion, is planning special rites.

March 22, 1921

Franklin, winner of last year’s state high school basketball title, repeated at Indianapolis when Anderson was defeated by a lop-sided score. Franklin defeated Rochester 19 to 18 by a goal in the last few seconds. Robbins, Rochester, scored all 18 points for his team.

March 23, 1921

The affirmative debating team of Purdue defeated the negative team of Central College of Indianapolis here last night at university auditorium. The judges’ decision was 3 to 2. Valparaiso University affirmative defeated Purdue negative at Indianapolis and the Valparaiso negative defeated Indiana Central affirmative at Lafayette.

March 24, 1921

A petition signed by forty-six taxpayers has been presented to John Bell, trustee of Morgan Township, asking that a joint grade and high school be constructed in the township.

Coach George Keogan, of Valparaiso University, has forty candidates working out for baseball. Among them are Ray, Adams, Higgins, Conley, Sides and Taylor, pitchers; Tree, Anderson and Bledsoe, catchers: Conley, 1st; Schwartz, 2nd; Malony and Beogol, ss; Gilbert, 3rd; Bradley, Robinson, Schwartz, Beanie Harri and Jimmy Marshall, outfielders.

March 25, 1921

Edward Mitzner, who recently came here from Wanatah, has purchased the E. E. Shedd grocery on East Lincolnway. Mr. Shedd has been in the grocery business here for thirty years. Mr. Mitzner has been connected with the Leetz Grocery Store since coming here from Wanatah.

The Hebron Equity Exchange, composed of farmers living in Boone and Porter Townships, is being organized by promoters of the Farmers’ Equity Union, an organization which operates in eleven states. Nearly 100 farmers have taken stock in the exchange. The purpose of the exchange is to operate elevators to handle the grain crop. It is said three elevators will be built in the south part of the county.

March 26, 1921

The Valparaiso Ice Company, which commenced drilling several days ago for an eight-inch well, struck water on its property at Monroe and Lafayette Streets. The strike was made at a depth of forty feet, but drilling was continued to a depth of sixty-five feet. The water will be used to supply the company in making artificial ice.

Marvin Heck, of LaPorte Avenue, was the winner in the contest conducted by the Valparaiso Ice Company for a name for its ice cream. Heck suggested the name “Valpo Velvet.”

March 27, 1921

A meeting scheduled for Saturday at the court house to reorganize the Porter County Fair Association proved a fizzle. Only a small number of persons attended. According to livestock men, the lack of suitable buildings to house the animals is a drawback. Several promoters recently conferred with local fair officials in putting on an exhibition.

After several months of intensive training, the Immanuel Lutheran Choir of forty voices made its debut before a crowded house at Immanuel Lutheran Church last evening. Mrs. A. Z. Arehart directed the choir, which showed superb ability in rendering a difficult program.

March 28, 1921

The contest for membership conducted by the Young Married Folks’ class of the M. E. Sunday School ended Sunday. Eighty persons were present Sunday, making the highest enrollment ever attending a class session. The Reds, captained by Mrs. John Palmer, defeated the Blues, captained by E. Zimmerman, by 200 points. The losers will banquet the winners. Attendance at the M. E. Sunday School Sunday was 650, and the collection $50.

At Summitt, Long Lake, on the Valparaiso and Gary Interurban, a number of cottages are being built at the present time. John Ludington, local contractor, has just completed a home for Harry Steward. Mrs. Louis Irvin, of Chicago, and George Feighner, of Gary, have awarded contracts to Mr. Ludington for new homes at Summitt.

March 29, 1921

Five candidates have filed declarations of candidacy with City Clerk Louis D. Bondy. They are: E. S. Miller for council, first ward; W. Blaine Williams, council, fourth ward; A. J. Worstell and B. D. McMahan, council-at-large; Louis Gast, council, third ward. All are republicans. Gast was elected on the democratic ticket four years ago.

March 30, 1921

The fruit crop in Porter County, believed to have been damaged by cold weather, is not badly hurt. George W. Neet, local fruit man, after examining his tree, said cherries were hard hit, but other crops suffered slightly.

March 31, 1921

Robbers plundered the Hess Mercury Carburetor Company factory on South Greenwich Street last night, taking between 75 and 100 carburetors, valued at $4,000. The loot had just been made and was awaiting shipment.

Five representatives of the Federal Farm Board for Vocational Training were here yesterday and approved plans for training a large number of federal board men at Valparaiso University. The minimum number will be 500. Around $100,000 in equipment will be installed.

Looking Back • February 1921

February 1, 1921

Valparaiso University defeated Northwestern Dentals of Chicago last night by a score of 28 to 21. The locals entered the second half six points behind but a barrage of baskets by McLennon, Anderson, Bradley, Harris and Ecklund put Valparaiso into the lead.

February 2, 1921

The Pioneer Truck Company of Valparaiso has four machines with different types of bodies on display at the Auto Show in Chicago. Rollie Hitesman is in charge of the exhibit. 

February 3, 1921

A.F. Heineman today retired from the firm of Heineman & Sievers. The change became effective February 1. His interests have been taken over by John H. and Robert Sievers. The partnership of Heineman & Sievers was formed October 1, 1900. Mr. Heineman entered the drug business in April, 1879, when he took employment with Willis P. Wilcox. He was a member of the Indiana State Board of Pharmacy for a number of years.

Valparaiso will have a chautauqua this year. Arrangements were made yesterday by the Valparaiso Chautauqua Association with the Morgan Bureau of Chicago for a program to be put on in this city the latter part of August, to continue six days. It will be the first chautauqua since 1913.

February 4, 1921

Ralph Hindenberg, who has been assistant carrier at the Valparaiso Post Office for some time, started today as an auxiliary carrier. Mr. Hindenburg will relieve somewhat the burden now being borne by two of the city carriers.

February 5, 1921

Valparaiso University basketball team defeated the A.G.U. Normal of Indianapolis yesterday at Indianapolis, 56 to 33. Harris with nine baskets and Ecklund with six led the locals’ attack.

Valparaiso High School lost to Culver High School last night at Culver by a score of 23 to 5. Culver led at half time, 13 to 5. Valparaiso was unable to penetrate Culver’s defense in the second half and failed to score a point.

February 6, 1921

Ora J. Davies, of Kokomo, Ind., state treasurer-elect, announced Saturday that he would retain Ben H. Urbahns, of Valparaiso, as deputy in the state treasurer’s office Mr. Urbahns has been deputy to Uz McMurtrie, present treasurer. Previous to going to Indianapolis, Mr. Urbahns was Porter County treasurer. 

Local workers in the Million Dollar Endowment drive for Valparaiso University have already raised $174,000 (≈$2.52M in 2021) of the $250,000 (≈$3.61M in 2021) quota for Porter County, according to an announcement made today. It is expected that when the soliciting period ends next Thursday night that the quota will be exceeded.

February 7, 1921

The Shrine Club of Valparaiso, composed of Masonic members, which intended to purchase the residence and furnishings of Dr. J.R. Pagin at the corner of Washington and Jefferson Streets, will not exercise its option on the property. At a meeting held Sunday, the club decided to await an official ruling of the grand lodge regarding the status of such an organization.

Gerald McGillicuddy, of this city, a gravel road contractor, attended the automobile show in Chicago last week and contracted for the purchase of six White trucks for gravel road work. Mr. McGillicuddy has contracts for the construction of the Williams and Galbreath roads and will soon begin work on them as the weather moderates.

February 8, 1921

Ford Moe, who has been stationed at Minneapolis, Minn., where he has been doing recruiting work for the U.S. Navy, is here visiting his parents. He has been ordered to report to Philadelphia, to join the crew of the new government hospital ship, Relief, an electrically operated boat. The vessel is due for a long cruise.

February 9, 1921

A.D. and L.F. Keene, local young men, returned today from Akron, Ohio where they have been connected with the vulcanizing department of the Goodyear Tire Company. They will open a tire shop here sometime in March.

February 10, 1921

The Flint Lake Mothers Club was organized yesterday with twenty-two members. Mrs. Louise C. Shauer was named president; Mrs. Theodore Purdy, secretary, and Mrs. Thomas Bradley, treasurer. The next meeting will be held at the home of Mrs. Charles Specht.

The organization of the Rotary Club under way for some time was completed yesterday when the Michigan City Rotary officials came here and organized the local club. The following directors were named: George Leonard Maxwell, William Schleman, Lewis E. Myers, Milo Jesse Bowman, and O. Frank Helvie.

February 11, 1921

Pledges and cash totaling $244,000 (≈$3.53M in 2021) have been raised by Porter County workers in the endowment campaign of Valparaiso University. The quota is $250,000 (≈$3.61M in 2021). In addition to the $244,000, the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce announced at a workers’ supper last night with a pledge of $100,000 (≈$1.45M in 2021) to be raised within the next 30 days.

February 12, 1921

John W. Sieb was renamed president; William J. Morris, vice-president, and Stanley B. Sink, secretary, of the Graceland Cemetery Association, at a meeting held last night. Mr. Sieb retired as manager after 23 years of service. A program will be launched to increase the perpetual care fund from $20,000 (≈$289,174 in 2021) to $200,000 (≈$2.89M in 2021), and the laying out and development of the new section to the north with trees and shrubbery and new roads and lanes.

More than 2,200 persons attended Sunday school in Porter County last Sunday. Valparaiso M.E. Sunday school had the largest attendance with 377. The totals by districts were: Valparaiso, 1,171; Chesterton-Porter, 514; Hebron, 400; Kouts, 181.

February 13, 1921

Valparaiso University defeated Indiana Normal college at Indianapolis Saturday evening, 28 to 8. The Normal team was held to three baskets.

The Kouts Gun Club has a membership of 52. Since the first of the year it has used 10,000 shells in its meetings. Members of the Valpo Gun Club attended a meet yesterday in Kouts. Dr. Robley D. Blount had the highest score with 45.

February 14, 1921

Joseph L. Doyle today purchased a half interest in the James Breed Barber Shop on South Franklin Street in Valparaiso. The Knoll Confectionery, which occupies the front part of the store room, will be moved to the rear.

Valparaiso University cagers defeated St. Louis University 30 to 17. In the middle of the second half the north side bleachers fell, several persons being slightly injured.

February 15, 1921

Milton J. Take, formerly of Valparaiso, has been appointed by Jay F. Grantham as manager of the Gary branch of the Grantham Auto Sales company which maintains four salesrooms in surrounding cities for the sale of Nash and Chevrolet cars. Mr. Take has been in Gary since the early days of the auto business. 

February 16, 1921

Dr. A.M. Jacoby, state and federal cattle herds of the county for tuberculosis. Almost forty herds were tested by Dr. Jacoby some time ago, and retests are to be made of many of these herds.

February 17, 1921

Word was received here today from Indianapolis that the state appellate court has reversed the LaPorte Superior Court in the case of Rosa B. Hitt and others versus Drusilla Carr, involving title to 80 acres of land on Lake Michigan near Miller Station. The case was tried twice at Michigan City and Mrs. Carr won. The case will be sent back to Michigan City for retrial.

The Smith and Smiths Company, recently organized, yesterday took possession of the McFetrich Lumber and Coal Company, purchased several weeks ago. The directors are: Harry E. Smith, E. V. Smith, Byron Smith, Paul Nuppnau, and Grant Crumpacker. Harry E. Smith is president; Byron Smith, vice-president and treasurer; E. V. Smith, secretary, and Charles Whitehead, mill superintendent.

February 18, 1921

Harvey Varner, Valparaiso’s crack wrestler, lost his match last night at the American Legion show at LaPorte to Eugene Graubowsky, of Trenton, New Jersey. Varner succumbed to Graubowsky’s aggressiveness after twenty-seven minutes of fancy grappling. Varner was handicapped by a weak shoulder suffered last week at Kouts when he threw Graubowsky two out of three falls.

Last night at the M.E. church, the Sphinx Club held its first banquet, attended by forty-two of its fifty charter members. The club is composed of young women of the community, who are employed in office work. Miss Marie Harrington of the Farmers’ State Bank, read a paper on “Possibilities,” which ably expressed the sentiment of the club.

February 19, 1921

Porter County will be accorded the honor of sending the first car of corn to starving Europe. John G. Brown, president of the Indiana Farmers’ Federation, notified County Agent A. Z. Arehart by telephone today from Chicago that a car would be ready at the Pennsylvania siding to receive the corn. Porter County was among the first to take steps to collect corn and the honor of making the first shipment was given the county. James O. Cox, county chairman of European relief, was largely instrumental in inducing the Porter County Farmers’ Association to ship the corn.

February 20, 1921

Valparaiso University defeated the American College of Physical Education here last night by a score of 74 to 10. Harris with nine baskets, and Bradley and Anderson with eight each, were the local high scorers.

Valparaiso’s Central Fire Station is undergoing improvements. New sleeping quarters are being added on the lower floor for three firemen. The interior has been redecorated and two windows put in the front folding doors.

February 21, 1921

Emerson High of Gary defeated Valparaiso High at the Valparaiso University gym Saturday night by a score of 36 to 12. Sturtridge was high point getter for Emerson with seven baskets and five free throws. Sibley also contributed five baskets for Gary. Light for Valparaiso, made six free throws.

Kouts held its election for town board members yesterday. William Denzine defeated A. L. Arnold in the first ward; Henry Herring won over William P. Betterton in the second ward; Ira J. Dye was victor over Gust Rueger in the third ward, and R.S. Berlin nosed out John G. Benkie in the fourth ward. Albert Hofferth was unopposed for clerk-treasurer.

February 22, 1921

Farmers from every section of Porter County were here today with gifts of corn for the starving children of Europe. The car at the Pennsylvania siding was filled with shelled corn. The car was the first given in the United States for European relief. Corn shelling machines shelled all the corn brought in on the cob. O. N. Peck had charge of the loading. The city schools paraded to the car and watched the proceedings. Representatives of movie companies took pictures.

February 23, 1921

City and county taxes for 1921 will be higher than in 1920, Treasurer J. G. Graessle announced today. In Valparaiso, the rate for the year will be $3.06 as against $2.35 in 1920. Other taxing units also show increases.

February 24, 1921

Valparaiso University basketball team defeated Notre Dame at South Bend yesterday, 32 to 26. Bradley with six baskets and Ecklund with four baskets and four free throws paved the way for the locals' win. The game was rough throughout.

February 25, 1921

The Lincoln Highway Garage on East Lincolnway was sold today by Harry Pagin to a company composed of Tom Benton, Harlow Smith, and J. L. Spooner. They will take possession March 1.

February 26, 1921

Postmaster J. T. Scott of the Valparaiso Post Office has received an order from Washington not to take checks in payment of money orders. The reason is that the post office cashes more money orders than it issues and consequently there is a dearth of money on hand to cash checks.

February 27, 1921

A new grocery store will soon open up in the third ward. Fred Bowlby, son of Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Bowlby, has awarded the contract to Smith and Smiths Company for a new frame building to be started immediately. Mr. Bowlby has been employed in the steel mills at Gary.

February 28, 1921

Forty-one bodies have been recovered from the wreckage up to 2 o’clock this afternoon in the disastrous railroad wreck between two passenger trains on the Michigan Central and New York Central Railroads at Porter Sunday night. It is estimated that many bodies are still in the wreckage. Searchers are digging in the mass for signs of human fragments. The wreck was due to the failure of the engineer and fireman of the Michigan Central train to heed a derailment signal. Coroner H. O. Seipel immediately launched an investigation into the wreck cause.

James Harden, age 54, dropped dead in the R. P. Wolfe Clothing Store on South Washington Street in Valparaiso this morning from a heart attack. He was talking of the railroad wreck at Porter yesterday which claimed 42 lives when stricken.

Looking Back • January 1921

These historical excerpts from one century ago were selected from the Looking Back feature of The Vidette-Messenger, which are part of the PoCo Muse Collection.

January 1, 1921

Harry, Earl, and Byron Smith today retired from the Foster Lumber & Coal Company, and their interests were taken over by C.E. Foster and Frank Clifford. The Smiths plan to enter the lumber business.

January 2, 1921

Porter County has contributed a total of $2,532.62 (≈$36,819.06 in 2021) to the European relief, according to a report made today by James O. Cox, county chairman. Of this sum $1,647.50 ($23,951.24 in 2021) has been paid in cash.

Note: American Relief Administration (ARA) was an American relief mission to Europe and later post-revolutionary Russia after World War I. Herbert Hoover, future president of the United States, was the program director.

January 3, 1921

Coroner Heman O. Seipel conducted twenty-seven inquests during 1920. Railroads and automobiles caused the major portion of deaths. Eleven were attributed to these causes.

Dr. H.E. Gowland was elected president of the Porter County Medical Society at a meeting held at the office of Dr. H.O. Seipel. Dr. G.R. Douglas was named vice-president; Dr. R.D. Blount, secretary and treasurer; Drs. E.H. Powell, L.E. Dittmar and A.O. Dobbins, censors.

January 4, 1921

A big fruit truck from Gary, owned by Mike Selas, was demolished by a Pennsylvania train near Louck’s Crossing, west of Valparaiso, this afternoon. About $700 ($10,176.55 in 2021) in fruit and vegetables were scattered down the tracks. The driver escaped by jumping.

January 5, 1921

William Brown of Hebron, state senator, and J.J. Overmyer, of Valparaiso, state representative, left for Indianapolis to prepare for the coming session of the legislature. Both men are vitally interested in a bill to establish a state police system.

January 6, 1921

Fred Wittenberg was elected captain and William Johnston, secretary and treasurer of the Valparaiso Fire Department at a meeting held last night. Ray Dean was elected as a volunteer member.

The state closed its case yesterday afternoon in the McFarland murder case on trial in Porter Circuit Court. Edward Schlene, of Michigan City, the defendant, was the first witness placed in the stand by the defense. He testified he thought McFarland was engaged in robbing Michigan Central cars and averred he shot only after being shot at by McFarland.

January 7, 1921

Joseph S. Bartholomew, who qualified for the office of prosecuting attorney of Porter County this week, succeeding Charles W. Jensen of Chesterton, will not appoint a deputy. Mr. Bartholomew has entered upon his official duties, but is not taking part in the McFarland murder trial in Porter Circuit Court. Mr. Jensen will continue to represent the state in this case and then his connection with the prosecutor’s office will come to an end.

The Polk School of Piano Tuning has been sold to C.M. Towne of Springfield, Ill., and William Powell of Oklahoma. The school was established by Mr. Polk twenty years ago. Messrs. Towne and Powell have been instructors in the school for several years. Mr. Polk will retire because of ill health.

January 8, 1921

Valparaiso University basketball team defeated DePaul University last night, 34 to 31. DePaul showed wonderful ability in caging shots from the center of the floor. In the curtain raiser Valparaiso High lost to Lowell High school, 18 to 17, in an overtime affair. The score at the end of the regulation time was 17-all.

The McFarland murder case is nearing an end int he Porter Circuit Court after three weeks of trial. The defendant rested its case yesterday with the adjournment of court until Monday. Only a few witnesses remain to testify following which attorneys will begin arguments and the case will be submitted to the jury.

January 9, 1921

In spite of frosty weather Saturday night, the first of the Valparaiso University Million Dollar Endowment Campaign community sings on the courthouse square was a success, fully 1,000 persons taking part. The sing was led by Manager Converse, of the campaign headquarters. The second community sing will be held at the courthouse Saturday night. The Gary High School band of fifty pieces will furnish music.

The Swinebreeders of Porter County met Saturday at the county agent’s office and reorganized for the coming year. The name of the Porter County Swinebreeders’ Association was changed to the Poland China Breeders’ Association. W.G. Hildreth was elected president; Merritt Ritter, vice-president, and H.F. Heimburg, secretary-treasurer.

January 10, 1921

Edward Schlene, of Michigan City, Michigan Central detective, was acquitted on the first ballot in the Porter Circuit Court by a jury today of a charge of second degree murder in connection with the shooting of John McFarland, of Chicago, in a gun battle near Porter on Sept. 22, 1920. Schlene shot McFarland in the belief he was robbing Michigan Central merchandise cars. Evidence showed that McFarland’s car broke down and he was repairing it when Schlene and another detective, Charles Simmons, saw him along the railroad right-of-way.

The A.F. of M. band, which recently disbanded on account of financial difficulties, will not leave Valparaiso without a band. A number of local musicians have formed a band on a smaller scale.

January 11, 1921

The Town of Kouts will vote on incorporation on January 27. Notice of the election has been posted in the place. The county commissioners on application of Daly and Freund, of Valparaiso, and T.E. Crowe of Kouts, ordered the election. Several years ago such a step was defeated by a small vote.

January 12, 1921

Up until noon today canvassers in the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce drive for memberships reported a total of 232 enrolled and a sustaining fund of $3,005 ($43,686.49 in 2021) subscribed.

January 13, 1921

Earl Lockridge, Monticello, Ind., district engineer of the state highway commission, visited Valparaiso today. In company with George T. Pearce, superintendent of Lake, Porter, LaPorte and Jasper Counties, he went over the Lincoln Highway, Yellowstone Train and Jackson Highway.

Ice cutting began today at Sager’s Lake. The Spring Water Ice company which owns the concession, intends to store a large quantity of ice. The ice is clear and is from six to eight inches in thickness.

January 14, 1921

Valparaiso University lost to Notre Dame at basketball last night in the university gym 21 to 17. Valparaiso led until the latter part of the game when Notre Dame tied it up and went ahead on two baskets by Grant and Anderson. Valparaiso’s lineup: Harris, Bradley Anderson, Ecklund, Dandalet. Notre Dame’s lineup was McDermont, Grant, Mehre, Riley and Anderson.

Meredith Fitzgerald, truck driver for the Standard Oil Company, met death today when his truck skidded on Horse Prairie Avenue, near Sugar Loaf, and plunged into the waters of Hamel Creek, leading into Salt Creek.

January 15, 1921

Montdale Farm, east of the city, owned by Harry Curran, today received three prize winning spotted Poland China hogs from Kankakee, Ill. Montdale now has 125 pure bred spotted Poland China hogs. A sale is planned for January 27 and many out-of-town buyers are expected.

Miss Edith Small and Tom Morony won the public speaking contest held by the seniors of Valparaiso High School last night. Others taking part were: Dorothy Bartholomew, Bessie Long, Dorothy Williams, Bernard Finnegan and Harry Deu.

January 16, 1921

Representative J.J. Overmeyer of Valparaiso, and State Senator Will Brown, of Hebron, are in favor of a three-mile frontage for park purposes in the sand dunes of Westchester Township, Porter County. Both men are in favor of locating the park at this time, but are for allowing the appropriation to go over for another session.

Sunday morning during the Sunday school hour at Immanuel Lutheran Church, forty pupils were rewarded with attendance pins. Harold Sievers, the school secretary, has the proud distinction of having not missed a session in ten years. John Erler, librarian, and Eldon Kuehl, have not missed in eight years, and Ernest Barneko has a five-year record.

January 17, 1921

George S. Haste has sold his property on North Franklin street near the Grand Trunk railroad tracks to Harry E. Smith, Byron H. Smith and Earl V. Smith, who have formed the Smiths Company, for the operation of a lumber and coal yard. The company plans to erect a yard. The company plans to erect a yard and buildings and have them ready for opening in the spring. The three men were formerly connected with Foster Lumber and Coal Company.

Valparaiso University defeated Armour Institute of Chicago last evening at the local gym, 35 to 13. Coach George Keogan, of the local school, used his second squad in the closing minutes of play and they held Armour without a basket, while scoring three times.

January 18, 1921

At the noon luncheon of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce today it was announced that the membership of the organization had reached a total of 470, and the sustaining fund aggregates $4,425 ($64,330.35 in 2021). This was the last day of the drive for members, but the work will be continued for some time, to enroll persons not solicited.

January 19, 1921

The Pioneer Truck Company of this city today placed on record on the county recorder’s office a deed to the property north of the Grand Trunk, recently purchased by J. H. McGill. The tract consists of 19 acres, and was acquired by the truck company for a consideration of $9,562 ($139,011.71 in 2021).

January 20, 1921

Howard Dodge, of this city, a student at the University of Wisconsin, has just been honored by election to Phi Kappa Phi, scholastic fraternity. The honor is one of the highest to be awarded in university circles. Mr. Dodge will receive his degree from the university within a few days.

Valparaiso University basketball team defeated Dayton college 38 to 6 at the local gym last night. Dayton was held to one goal from the field by the strong guarding of the locals who had no trouble in locating the hoop for many baskets. The Ohio team previously had bowled over all its opponents in easy fashion.

January 21, 1921

Henry Kinsey Brown today tendered his resignation to Charles L. Jeffrey, president of Valparaiso University Board of Trustees, as bursar of the institution. The board accepted the resignation with regret. Personal business was given by Mr. Brown for the move.

Dr. A.M. Jacoby, federal and state tuberculosis cattle tester, arrived here today from Indianapolis to finish up a few tests on cattle herds in Porter County. Dr. Jacoby has tested about forty herds in the country. He reports that Dearborn county has 600 applications on file for tests of cattle.

January 22, 1921

For the first time in four years, Valparaiso High lost to Froebel High basketeers of Gary, 15 to 6. Coach R.E. Schenck started his second string team to save the regulars for the Culver game tonight. With the score standing 12 to 4 in favor of Froebel, two of the first team were put in but the half ended 14-4, Froebel. In the second half neither team was able to ring up any points. Froebel added three and Valpo only two in the second frame. Captain Earl Scott, Coyer and Leetz were kept out of the game by Coach Schenck in order that they would be fresh for the Culver fray. 

Hobart M. Lackey, secretary of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce, today by the organization showed Valparaiso to have a population of 6,879. Mr. Lackey is quoted as saying that in the 1910 census the enumeration was padded by the inclusion of from 1,000 to 1,500 students of Valparaiso University. The official census as given out by the government census bureau gave the city a population of 6,518. The chamber of commerce figure showed a net gain of 361.

January 23, 1921

With Coyer in line, but Captain Scott on the sick list, Valparaiso High went down to defeat before Culver high 19 to 11. Light was high point getter for the locals with three baskets and three free throws. Shaw and Snyder starred for Culver.

Valparaiso University basketeers divided a double bill with Dubuque University at Dubuque on Friday and Saturday. Friday night Dubuque won 31 to 14, and Saturday night Valparaiso turned the tables by annexing a 24 to 11 victory.

January 24, 1921

By a deal consummated yesterday, the McFetrich Lumber and Coal Company was sold to the newly organized Smiths Company, composed of Harry E., Byron, and Earl Smith. The purchasers will take possession on February 15. The McFetrich Company is one of the oldest firms in the city and has been owned by the Lowenstine interests. The company has yards on West Indiana avenue, near the Pennsylvania Railroad.

E.J. Freund, William Schleman and T.P. Galvin, representing the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce; D.E. Kelly, the City of Valparaiso, and J.A. Warren and Edward Morgan, the Porter County Farmers’ Association, returned last night from Indianapolis where they went to confer with Governor McCray and the legislative committee of the Indiana Farm Federation in regard to establishing a state park in north Porter County. Governor McCray said he had not committed himself as to the size and location of the park. He will appoint a commission to investigate the matter. 

January 25, 1921

The country home of W.H. Dittman, former trustee of Porter township, located seven miles southwest of Valparaiso, was destroyed by fire. Mr. and Mrs. Dittman and two children and Fred Lloyd, farm hand, were in Valparaiso at the time. The house was built four years ago at a cost of $7,000 ($101,765.53 in 2020). Insurance of $4,200 (≈$61,059.32 in 2020) was carried on the house and household goods. Lloyd lost $150 ($2,180.69 in 2020) in cash which was in his room.

January 26, 1921

Ross McLellan, former Valparaiso man, who has been connected with the Westinghouse Electric Company, has just received a fine promotion and on April 1 will go to New York City to take a position.

January 27, 1921

The Pioneer Truck Company is turning out trucks at the rate of eight to ten a week. As soon as the assembling quarters can be changed the output will be increased to three times the present capacity. President Otto Freier was here today from Chicago and announced that a larger number of orders had been received by the company from New York as the result of the company’s display at the auto show held there.

The committee of the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce on the new bus line to be established between LaPorte and Valparaiso is making arrangements for the operation of the line. The bus will make trips from LaPorte to Valparaiso via Westville. Mr. Jahns is well pleased with the Valparaiso-Kouts-Wheatfield line and will soon replace the present bus with a new one.

January 28, 1921

The first sale held by the Montdale Stock Farm of Spotted Poland China hogs was attended by 350 persons yesterday. Thirty head of hogs were sold at an average price of $156 ($2,267.92 in 2021) per head. The top price was $400 ($5,815.17 in 2021) for a sow, and the next highest was $390 ($5,669.79 in 2021). Harry Curran, owner of the farm, and L. W. Hart, manager of the livestock department, were well pleased with the sale. They plan to hold another sale on March 29.

Wheat prospects in Porter County this year look bad at present time. There is practically no hope even for a fair crop. The dry weather and continued freezes and thaws have played havoc with the plants. In many fields the wheat has assumed a reddish brown color. The fly has also gotten into many fields.

January 29, 1921

A tabulation of school children in Valparaiso City Schools at the beginning of the second semester shows a total of 1,378, of which 303 are in high school. In 1917 the total was 1,141, of which 230 were in the high school. There are forty-six regular school teachers.

Citizens of Kouts by a majority of thirty-eight voted to incorporate as a town on Thursday. The result has been reported to the county commissioners and will come up for the approval of the board on February 7. At a former election the incorporation move was defeated.

January 30, 1921

Valpo University lost its first game of the season at Detroit on Saturday evening when the University of Detroit took a well-played game by a county of 22 to 16. The locals were not able to hit the hoop, despite the fact that their floor work was superior to the visitors. Tillie Voss, Detroit center, caged seven baskets, several of them being well out on the floor.

Plymouth High defeated Valparaiso High 19 to 14 at Plymouth Saturday evening. Valparaiso led at the half, 8 to 6, but could not stand the rushes of the winners in the second half. Captain Scott was forced to retire from the game because of weakness caused by a recent illness.

January 31, 1921

Articles of incorporation have been filed at Indianapolis by the Smith and Smiths Company, coal and building materials, of Valparaiso. The capital stock is $50,000 (≈$726,897 in 2021). The incorporators are: H.E. Smith, Earl V. Smith, Byron Smith, P. C. Nuppnau and Grant Crumpacker.

Joseph Coash, who has been manager of the Commercial Oil and Supply Company in Valparaiso, has severed his connection with the company. Mr. Coash will take a position elsewhere.

Looking Back • December 1920

These historical excerpts from one century ago were selected from the Looking Back feature of The Vidette-Messenger, which are part of the PoCo Muse Collection.

December 1, 1920

The grand military ball given by Canton Valparaiso, No. 27, P.M., I.O.O.F., at Odd Fellow hall was a success. More than 100 couples danced to music furnished by the Bell Orchestra. A Dort automobile was given away. S. Sorenson, 606 Union Street in Valparaiso, was the lucky winner.

December 2, 1920

According to statements of campaign expenses filed with the county clerk, James H. McGill, of Valparaiso, candidate for congress on the Farmer-Labor ticket, spent $2,125.37. The Porter County Republican Central Committee spent $903.19, treasurer G.E. Bornholt’s report shows. James R. Malone, treasurer of the Porter County Democratic Central Committee, reported expenditures of $422.30.

December 3, 1920

Ex-Senator Arthur J. Bowser, of Chesterton, well-known newspaper man, is in Holy Family Hospital at LaPorte to undergo treatment for several weeks preparing for an operation. Mr. Bowser has been afflicted with poor health for several years, and an operation was deemed necessary. His poor condition prevented this at once, hence his entrance into hospital for treatment.

Gary authorities are waging a drive on milk shippers in Lake and Porter Counties who are shipping milk containing less than 3.25% butterfat. A number were fined in Gary City Court, and the cases have been appealed to the Lake Circuit Court at Crown Point. Ex-Governor Charles S. Deneen, of Chicago, has been retained by the Milk Producers’ Association to defend the milk producers. 

December 4, 1920

With the addition of the new auto fire truck, the Valparaiso Fire Department has added another member to its corps. Wilbur Cowdrey has been elected by the city council to assist at the local station. He has been  serving as a volunteer fireman.

Valparaiso defeated Elkhart High School last night before one of the largest crowds to attend a basketball game in this city. The first half ended 6 to 5. With only a single point single point separating the two teams neither was able to score in the last five minutes of play despite numerous shots at the basket. The final was 14 to 13. Meeks, Scott, Lawrence, Marimon, Coyer, Light and Seymour comprised the local lineup.

December 5, 1920

Passenger rates and freight charges of the Gary and Valparaiso Railway have been increased by order of the Indiana Public Service Commission. The passenger fares will be three cents a mile except for traffic between Valparaiso and Gary where the rate is fixed at 2.2 cents to meet the competition of the Pennsylvania lines. The fare between Valparaiso and Gary was fixed at 51 cents, plus war tax. Computation 54 monthly ride tickets will sell at $12 and 60 ride tickets at $14.50.

Dr. C.A. Nixon, of Valparaiso, has received official notice of his appointment for a five-year term on the National Educational Council of America. Dr. T.A. Broadbent, of Chicago, was appointed for two years. There are 15 members on the board.

December 6, 1920

Herman Hagen, 87 years old, and for 40 years identified with the Odd Fellow Lodge, has been honored by the appointment of aide-de-camp on the staff of General G.M. Hermiston, of Toronto, Canada, head of the Patriarchs Militant of the Sovereign Grand Lodge of Odd Fellows.

Ecklund, left end of the Valparaiso University football team, has the honor of kicking the longest drop kick for a score this season, according to Spalding’s Official Football Guide Book. In the Valparaiso-Carroll game “Eckie” stood on the Valparaiso 47-yard line and kicked the ball directly between the uprights, a distance of 53 yards.

December 7, 1920

Initial steps toward reorganizing the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce were taken at a meeting of the organization in the new headquarters at 13 N. Washington Street.

December 8, 1920

Kouts citizens claim lawlessness abounds in the town. Recently the town authorities installed stop lights at the dangerous corners but hoodlums prowling about in the night demolished them by hurling objects at them. Deputy Sheriff Wise endeavored to curb them but was severely criticized and re-resigned.

December 9, 1920

The high school building at McCool was nearly destroyed by fire last night. The blaze was discovered about 10 o’clock but after hard work was extinguished. The floor was burned and a number of desks charred. The cause of the blaze is unknown. The building was only recently built.

Feist Brothers, of Valparaiso, have purchased the Casebere Garage at Kouts. Both men were formerly connected with the Lincoln Highway Garage here. They will move their families to Kouts as soon as homes can be secured.

December 10, 1920

The Pioneer Truck Company has acquired title to twenty-seven acres of land in the north part of the city of J.H. McGill for a site for its new auto truck factory. With the coming of spring it is planned to erect a monitor type of building 300x600 feet. The company at present is located at the corner of Indiana Avenue and Lafayette Street in downtown Valparaiso.

Manager E.J. Salisbury, of Memorial Opera House, went to Chicago today to make arrangements for the opening of the vaudeville season at Memorial. Mr. Salisbury will meet with eastern and western managers associations in regard to best offerings of these associations.

December 11, 1920

The Valparaiso City Council at its regular meeting passed an ordinance increasing the wages of the volunteer firemen from $70 to $150 per annum, effective Jan. 1. Eleven men benefit by the increase.

The Valparaiso Ice Company has contracted for the purchase of a carload of cork for insulating the ice and ice cream storage rooms of its new plant on Monroe Street. The consignment fills a freight car and will mean an expenditure of $3,000.

December 12, 1920

W.E. Kenyon, formerly of the Pioneer Truck Company, has been appointed special representative in the motor truck division of the Continental and Commercial National Bank of Chicago.

Coroner H.O. Seipel conducted an inquest and returned a verdict of accidental death. James Hart, age 69, employed by the Panhandle Railroad, was instantly killed at Hebron Saturday afternoon when he was struck by a freight train.

December 13, 1920

The boulevard lighting system for the business district will be revived again. Two years ago the proposition was brought up but fell flat on account of the failure of the Valparaiso City Council, Valpo Chamber of Commerce, and lighting company to come to an agreement. Dr. J.R. Pagin, chairman of the lighting committee of the council, said today that a move was being made to again consider the plan.

The Valparaiso Lighting Company will the coming year make extensive improvements to its local plant. Extensions and betterments costing $25,000 to $30,000 will be made, according to Manager R.J. Cory.

December 14, 1920

The Valparaiso Post Office has been granted an additional clerk by the post office department at Washington. Calvin Bassinger, night clerk, has been shifted to the money order division. Bryan Gregory will succeed Mr. Bassinger in the mail division.

December 15, 1920

Ray Adams, old-time fireman, purchased the first ticket for the fireman’s dance to be given at the Armory Hall, December 29. Mr. Adams was in the station last night when Assistant Chief Bert Wise brought in the tickets fresh from the press. With a dollar bill in his hand, he took the first pasteboard from the pack.

December 16, 1920

Articles of incorporation and notices have been filed with the Indiana Secretary of State at Indianapolis by the Valparaiso Shrine Club. There is no capital stock. The directors are: O.F. Helvie, G.W. Vann and E.H. Powell. The club has taken an option on the Dr. J.R. Pagin residence, corner of Washington and Jefferson Streets and plan to remodel the structure for its home.

Frederick Newton Arvin, 21, of Valparaiso, is one of the 264 students honored in the annual award of scholarships at Harvard. Mr. Arvin who prepared for Harvard at Valparaiso High School, has won the prestigious Bowditch Scholarship.

December 17, 1920

Valparaiso University defeated Hahnemann Medical College here last night, 46 to 16. Beanie Harris, Bradley, Conley, Goheen and Dandalet started the game, scoring fourteen points to the visitors one. After ten minutes of play, Coach Keogan substituted Chuck Harris, Caring, Hiltpold and Eckland. The score at half time was 20-6, Valparaiso. Eckland was high point gatherer for locals with eight baskets

Recently County Superintendent Fred H. Cole, of Valparaiso, was selected for mention in “Who’s Who and Why in After-War Education,” a classified list of men and women who have made notable or valuable contributions to education. As a reaction to that honor. Mr. Cole has been requested to send his four-point study of individual differences to many school experts and leaders in the educational field.

December 18, 1920

The Indiana Supreme Court today reversed the decision of the LaPorte Circuit Court upholding the order of the Indiana Public Service Commission in fixing rates to be charged by the Valparaiso Lighting Company for electricity in Valparaiso. The verdict is the aftermath of a petition filed by James H. McGill and others. The public service commission granted the petition and the lighting company appealed. The case was tried in LaPorte Circuit Court with a victory for the petitioners. An appeal was taken to the Indiana Supreme Court. The lighting company contended the city has no right to appropriate profits of the company as the result of a favorable contract with the Michigan City Lighting Company on the ground that the contract was made in 1911 for a ten-year period and the utilities law did not go into effect until 1913. The reversal by the supreme court will throw the matter open to more litigation. The company, at the time the rates were fixed, continued to charge the old rates and affixed a statement to their receipts that if the rates were finally changed the overpayments would be refunded.

Yesterday in the superior court at Gary, Judge C.F. Greenwald found in favor of the Porter County Board of Commissioners in its suit against T.G. Hamilton Company and the Massachusetts Bonding Company for failure to complete the Goodeyohn road in Center Township. The court awarded the county $2,500 for completion of the road. The Hamilton Company recently went into the hands of a receiver and the bonding company became liable.

December 19, 1920

Valparaiso High basketeers defeated LaPorte High here last evening at the university gym in an overtime basketball game, 20 to 19. The locals led at half time, 9 to 6. With Valparaiso leading by two points and ten seconds to go, Pitzer of LaPorte, shot from the middle of the floor to tie the count. Earl Scott’s free throw on Pease’s foul proved the winning point.

Governors-elects Len Small, of Illinois; Blaine, of Wisconsin, and McCray, of Indiana, and Miss Jane Adams, of Hull House, Chicago, and United States Senator Thomas Watson, of Georgia, will be among the speakers at a banquet to be held January 31 at East Hall in the interest of the Greater University Endowment Campaign. Covers will be laid for two thousand.

December 20, 1920

Valparaiso University quintet defeated Kalamazoo College last night 32 to 26. Both teams were tied at fourteen all at the half. Eckland’s deadly casting in the second half kept the locals in the lead throughout the remainder of the game. He caged seven baskets. All of the locals’ scoring came on goals from the field, not a free throw being registered.

The Valparaiso-Gary Interurban Railway yesterday closed the deal for the leasing of the Gary Connecting Railway, sixteen miles of line, between Woodville Junction and Gary, of Philadelphia, Pa., bondholders, for a term of twenty years. The annual rental will be $7,500, together with taxes and upkeep of the road.

December 21, 1920

For a second time within three days, Valpo University quintet defeated Kalamazoo College at the local university gymnasium last night. The score was 29 to 19. Kazoo showed a flash in the first half when it led Valparaiso by nine points. The half ended 16-13, Valparaiso. Bradley with five baskets and Beanie Harris with four led the local attack. Bradley also tossed in five out of seven free throws.

December 22, 1920

The Gary Connecting Railroad, running from Woodville Junction to Gary, has filed with the secretary of state its certificate of an increase in capital stock from $10,000 to $210,000, and also an issue of $50,000 preferred stock. The Gary Connecting railroad has been leased to the Gary-Valparaiso Railway.

December 23, 1920

Whiting High defeated Valparaiso High last night at Whiting, 29 to 12. Poor officiating and the small floor made the game a rough house affair. Valparaiso was penalized seventeen times on fouls and Whiting six. Earl Scott was slugged twice by a Whiting player who was removed from the game only after Valpo wouldn’t take to the floor unless the sluggish player was ejected.

Only one new face will be seen at the courthouse on January 1 when the new officers take their positions. William Pennington, who will succeed William B. Forney as Porter County Sheriff, is the only new official. All the rest of the county officials will either hold over or begin new terms.

December 24, 1920

Last evening at the high school auditorium, before a large crowd, the Music Club of the Valparaiso High school gave its annual concert. A program well spiced with variety and well rendered sent the crowd away with general appreciation and respect for the performers. The work of the orchestra, boys’ and girls’ glee clubs, and special offerings by Charles Coyer and a trio composed of Roger Wilson, Russell Nixon and Tom Morony and readings by Alma Curtis, were of a high order, Miss Juva Higbee, musical instructor, was director. Mrs. Helen Fehrman-Johnson was accompanist.

December 25, 1920

No jury was obtained in the case of Edward Schlene, charged with second degree murder in the Porter Circuit Court, yesterday afternoon. Attorneys for the defendant are working hard to eliminate the “formed opinion” jurors. The case will be resumed next Monday on account of Christmas, and the task of selecting a jury will begin anew.

December 26, 1920

J.E. Roessler was named president of the Valparaiso Building, Loan-Fund and Savings Association at the annual meeting of stockholders Friday night. C.W. Dickover is vice-president; C.W. Benton, treasurer; J.S. Bartholomew, attorney; M.L. Dickover, auditor, and E.L. Loomis, secretary.

Members of the Rehabilitation Club of Valparaiso university were entertained Friday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Myers. Following a banquet, Herman Hill, acting as chairman, called on the boys for a description of their most interesting experiences in the war. Mr. Myers was presented with a cigar case made from a French seventy-five shell. The ladies who assisted in serving the banquet were presented with a fine souvenir.

December 27, 1920

The task of selecting a jury to try Edward Schlene, of Michigan City, in connection with the killing of William J. McFarland, of Chicago, near Porter, was resumed in Porter Circuit Court today. Mrs. McFarland, widow of McFarland, was in court today for the first time. Her whereabouts were discovered by Prosecutor C.W. Jensen while in Chicago last week. This morning, Ralph N. Smith, of LaPorte, counsel for the defendant, filed a motion for a special venire of jurors outside the county. He pointed out that a fair and impartial jury could not be obtained in this county. Special Judge Frank B. Parks, after hearing arguments, overruled the motions.

W.L. Copeland, former deputy county clerk, who went to Portland, Oregon, four months ago, likes the western country, he says in cards received here. Mr. Copeland is practicing law and is already making a success.

December 28, 1920

This morning was the coldest of the present winter. The thermometer at the Valparaiso Home Water Company at Flint Lake registered ten below. Ice on the lake is frozen to a depth of four to five inches.

December 29, 1920

The refrigerating machinery for the Valparaiso Home Ice Company arrived here today from Omaha, Neb., and is being placed in the company’s building on South Lafayette Street. It is expected the plant will be ready for operation by February 1.

December 30, 1920

The Porter Circuit Courtroom was packed to the doors yesterday afternoon when Prosecutor C.W. Jensen began his opening statement in the trial of Edward Schlene, of Michigan City, charged with the shooting of William J. McFarland, near Porter on Sept. 23, last. No other murder case has attracted the attention in the county occasioned by this killing on the highway in the dead of night in which three men engaged in a gun battle. A jury in the case was obtained yesterday. Schlene claims he shot McFarland in the belief he was robbing Michigan Central Railroad merchandise cars. Opening statements were made by Prosecutor Jensen and Ralph N. Smith, of LaPorte, for Schlene.

The crown and owl hunt staged by the members of the Elks’ Lodge was a success. The side captained by Fred Black won by a score of 1,100 points. Mr. Black’s side killed 51 crows and the side led by Harry Thune, 29. Mr. Thune’s side killed an owl. A venison supper will be served at the lodge hall this evening.

December 31, 1920

Gust Long, who has been connected with the C.W. Bartholomew undertaking parlors, was last night appointed deputy sheriff by Sheriff-elect William Pennington. There were a number of candidates for the position. Mr. Long has been serving for the last three years as deputy under Sheriff W.B. Forney.

Friends of William Hardesty, popular bailiff of the Porter Superior Court, are relating a tale of his capture of a mastodon during the Elks’ annual hunt yesterday. The animal was described as being forty feet from tip to tip with a hip bone that weighed 300 pounds. It measured twenty feet in height, and is said to live on trees of the forest, consuming one at each meal. When shot by Mr. Hardesty, it was securely anchored on one of “Copper” Donahue’s traps. One of the bones is on display in the Jake Marks Barber Shop on West Indiana Avenue in downtown Valparaiso.