Celebrating The Future; Looking At The Past

Pictures and descriptions courtesy of Chris Nygaard

This week we start a series about the churches of Wesley. This picture is of the Methodist (UMC) church built in 1884. The congregation began meeting in the early 1870's. The church was remodeled several times the last major remodel being the addition of the choir loft and the sanctuary.

From 1895-1927 F.M.Butts and John Uhlenhake owned and operated the implement dealership that would latter be owned by John Bauer. John was the grandson of John Uhlenhake and purchased the business in 1946 from R.C Bauer. I think this thermometer is early 1920's.

Milk bottle and butter box from Wesley Creamery

As a prelude to celebrating 150 years I'm taking a look at the past. While this week's post is not significant they are among the oldest items we have. These warrants are dated 1873 and from the Wesley township country schools. What amazes me is the calligraphy.

In 1915 Ben's Cash Store moved from the National bank building ( Barry's) to a new building on the north side of the street. Some of us may recognize the building as Kraus's department store, Walker's Grocery, Ma's cafe or Jet's cafe. I believe it was also an appliance store. The rolling pin is dated 1916 and was purchased at sale.






























Silver spoon issued at incorporation or 25th anniversary. Handle has soldier holding flag with battle streamers, silhouette of Chief Black Hawk, and the bowl is engraved Wesley