Antiques, History

New Edison Finds

I have some new items to add to my collection of Edison memorabilia. Last year I acquired an old, glass bottle that once held  battery oil made by Thomas A. Edison Industries. A friend and I went out on the public trail where I found the bottle to search again. He has a metal detector, so… Continue reading New Edison Finds

History

War in Dairyland

I always enjoy learning more about historical topics new to me. The era of the Great Depression was a turbulent time in US History that is often associated with urban poverty, ecological disaster, and social reform. I am fascinated with the milk strikes in the Midwest, particularly in Wisconsin. In 1933 farmers in Wisconsin tried to unify their efforts… Continue reading War in Dairyland

History

Universal Motor Company- Oshkosh, Wis

Until moving to Oshkosh a few years ago, I never realized how industrial this city used to be. From what I have been told, Oshkosh was considered the second city in Wisconsin,  behind Milwaukee. Dominated by the lumber industry, the shores of the Fox River were packed with mills and other industrial firms.  Three major… Continue reading Universal Motor Company- Oshkosh, Wis

History

Bergstrom Furnace

I ran into an interesting piece of Neenah history today. This was the door of a Bergstrom Manufacturing Company furnace. There were some other parts and components, but the door was an amazing piece with the company's name on it. I am unable to find any pictures or information about this furnace. I was able… Continue reading Bergstrom Furnace

family history

Lost & Found History

Every now and then I acquire some history that has been lost. This particular piece was found in the floorboards of a home. I recovered it and could not bring myself to throw it away. It was tucked into a small envelope, which is how I used to get report cards. I would like to… Continue reading Lost & Found History

Book Review

Book Review

I finally bought my copy of The Labor Movement in Wisconsin: A History last summer. I have always wanted to get this book, but I had a hard time finding a book store that stocked it.  I got my hands on it when I visited a small bookstore in Princeton,Wisconsin. I really enjoyed the book and learned a… Continue reading Book Review

History, Projects

Markesan Railroad Yard/Time Table

I am working on a big project right now (more on that later) that has me digging into some railroad history in Oshkosh. While working on that, it has me wondering more about Markesan's railroad yard. It can be harder to find information on small lines that ended in small towns. Once in a while… Continue reading Markesan Railroad Yard/Time Table