Naperville Nostalgia

TAKE THE NAPERVILLE NOSTALGIA QUIZ!

In 1994, Naperville residents Harris and Ruth Fawell, pictured above with costumed guides at the door to the one-room Copenhagen School, helped to organize Constitution Day at Naper Settlement.  Constitution Day is celebrated throughout America on Sept. 17. 

Question:What elected office did Harris Fawell hold in 1994?

Answer: Harris Fawell was a member of the U.S. Congress in the House of Representatives.

---Nancy Zimmermann, Naperville

Submitted August 28, 2007

Beidelman Furniture,

pictured here (circa 1927),

still stands at the corner

of Washington St. and

Jackson Ave.  Note the

awning along the side of

the building with the words

"Oliver J. Beidelman

Furniture and Undertaking." 

Jimmy's Grill followed other

gas stations, a piano and

organ store and other

restaurants to replace the gas station.  Today, motorcycles are more likely than roadsters to be near the restaurant...and please don't miss 8 cent/gallon gas!

Ding! Ding! Ding! Naperville Nostalgia has been identified by a reader who wishes to remain anonymous. The reader identified students in the 4th or 5th Grade Class from Naper School as Mary Louise Owens Pugsley (front left), Gale Haggart, Joe Mazza, Georgia Peterson Lipscomb, Norm Rubin, Betty Owens Morar, Carol Jean Steck Sigmund, Otto Kelsch and Charles Steck. Dare Queeney (middle left), Dee Netzley Schumacher, Mary Ann Krueger Shiffler, E. David Smith, Bob Ellenwood, David Swerdlin, Audrey Dillon Bermes, Jack Scroggins, Cecil Brown and Ed Knickerbocker. Shirley Gibbons Giesler (back left), Marion Manes Weinmann, Richard Stark, (head turned ?), Phyllis Hosler Christiansen, Charlotte Rickert Fenner and Joe Dichtl.

The reader who correctly identified the class will receive a Les Schrader “framed” 2005-2006 Calendar.

Regarding Naperville Nostalgia on PAGE 9

of September 2007, local historian Steve

Hyett writes: That was too easy! Harris &

Ruth Fawell are pictured in the Sept PN.

In 1994, Harris was a member of Congress,

from the 13th Congressional District. 

He served in that office for 14 years, 1985-

99.  He was in that spot before our current

officeholder Judy Biggert. 

Prior to Harris it was John Erlenborn.  Back in 1970 I heard John Erlenborn give a talk about government at a program at George Williams College, then in Downers Grove. When asked a question about why the government doesn't do this or that, Congressman Erlenborn answered something like this.  "Oh Yes, your government can do more.  But every time you ask your government -- at any level -- to do what you could do, it will cost you more than if you did it yourself, and you won't like the result, because it won't be as good as if you did it yourself."  Sage advice then, and especially today when so many politicians pander to the masses with panacea answers which won't solve much of anything to our liking. 

By the way, Harris was in the Illinois State Senate 1963-77.

And that picture from Mary Lou Wehrli?  That looks like Bev Frier.  And it looks like she's working at a loom, or weaving something. 

—Steve Hyett, September 3, 2007

NAPERVILLE MEMORIES BLOG: Take a scroll down for memories from people who know how we got from there to the Naperville of today. Thanks to everyone sharing memories.  Please send us your memories or photos, too.

60's Memory! Back in the late 60s' I was in a band The Changin' Times. We specialized in rhythm and blues, stones and a lot of black music. I have fond memories of the "Barn" in Naperville. It was a great teen rock club converted from an actual barn in the middle of a beautiful field. The converted loft overlooked the entire club as it seconded for a dressing room and anything

else one could get away with. What the heck...we were kids...teenagers.

—Bob Carol, bob.carol@cox.net

Submitted July 23, 2010

Traffic ticket recall! I remember how my dad would always find out when I got a traffic ticket because he could read about it in the Naperville Sun.

—Jeff Moffatt

Submitted May 24, 2010

Good rule! I am looking at a wooden yardstick from Soukup Hardware. 204 S Washington St with phone number.  On the back are Frank and Ray's home phone numbers and the phrase, "$500.00 Fine If Used For Spanking"

—Jody Henry, jody1614@gmail.com

Submitted May 15, 2010

A Mentor Remembered

Phil Lawler exercised his right

to prove that smart means more than bright.

True educated students

use much more than just their brains.

Their homework's more than books alone.

It's also working out at home.

Phil modeled what it takes to sweat

and be fully alive.

This mentor underwent the knife

and fought his cancer (fit for life).

Phil Lawler leaves a legacy

of courage, strength and faith.

by Greg Asimakoupoulos

—Greg Asimakoupoulos, former Naperville resident

Submitted May 1, 2010

We live in Naperville since we move from Hong Kong in 1996---- It's been a wonderful experience for the family. Naperville Cares..... Positively Naperville. We have learn a lot from Stephanie Penick. I love reading your writing. We are now retire from Asia.... We love to serve the International community. ... My dad left China as a teacher, I'm grateful because of that. He later became the classmate of Dr. Robert Schuller in the fifties. He never says no to anything. So he answers God's call. He is still serving the Lord in the Philippines among Chinese immigrants.... I would love to invite Chinese to visit us. we have a library in our home. Nubby Bob is also an interesting person. You could interview him. .drbob of SEND.

—Esther Martin

Submitted April 10, 2010

Editor's Note: Esther Martin is a member of Facebook where she is also a fan of Inspire! Ministry

for Women.

Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: I want to

identify the 3 men in the April PN.  They are: L to R: Al

Rubin, John Neesley and Arlo Schilling.  I don't know the

year but I think it was in the early 70's when Arlo left North

Central College as Pres. and joined Harris Bank on the

Bd. of Directors.

—Rita Harvard

Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: In the picture

are Al Rubin, John Neesley and Arlo Schilling.

—Barb Dwyer

Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: Norris

identified Al Rubin, Bill Frier and Arlo Shilliing. ... Did you

know that every time a Lions member's name appears in

a newspaper, he is fined one dollar? Norris is going to go

broke with all the publicity in your April edition! ...

Prepare yourself to receive a bill!

—Peg Yonker

Naperville Nostalgia Photo ID for April: In the April 1, 2010 edition of PN I recognized, in "Naperville Nostalgia", my 3 friends: L to Right. Al Rubin, John Neesley, and Arlo Schilling. Only John is still around. Cheers!

—Roy Grundy

P.S. Al Rubin looks like he was in his 50's, (say 56) and he died what 7-9 years ago at about what? 72? So the photo, probably taken at the Holiday Inn, is dated about 1986.

I knew Jim Hubbard as we did work for Cock Robin for many years during the same period.  He certainly was dedicated to his job and was a valued employee.

—Rita (Fredenhagen) Harvard

Submitted March 3, 2010 (See Nostalgia posted on February 22)

Three-year residency in 1970s left fond memories...I remember the Paradise Bookstore downtown, and visiting one time and seeing a handwritten sign taped to the door that said "no food or drink in Paradise"  What a great unintentional joke. ...

Moved to Naperville in Aug. 1972 to a new house on east Bailey Road, when Bailey Road stopped at what was then Barkdoll Road, which became a gravel road just south of the entrance to the Farmstead subdivision.  There were only houses along Bailey Road and farm fields for as far as you could see to the south. ... My bus trip to NCHS spend 45 min. wandering through the acreages between Naperville and Lisle before coming back to Washington Street on Hobson Road. ...

I also remember the Earl of Sandwich and the beautiful 1920'or 1930's gas station at the corner of Ogden and Columbia. ... I remember the old wood camelback bridge over the BN railroad tracks on Columbia Street. ...

My time in Naperville was too short.  Left town to go to college in fall 1975 and then my family moved to California in fall 1976, but I still fondly remember what a wonderful community Naperville was, and still is.

—Mike Weyhrich, mweyhrich@earthlink.net

Submitted February 24, 2010

Born and raised...Wow- has Naperville changed! I remember my mother riding me to Hobson Cooperative Nursery School down Hobson Road on horseback...

Going to Cock Robin for those square ice cream cones...

Rascals Onion Ring basket (on Ogden Ave.).

A class mate "Kim" who created the Highlands School mascot- "Highlands is a Whale of a School".

The opening on Naper Blvd- school was canceled to see the connection of (what was) North and South Naperville!

Easter Egg Hunts on the "big hill" at North Central College.

Ogden 6 being the only movie theatre in town!

The opening of the Riverwalk...playing in the fountain and being "talked" to by Officer Friendly!

When the Last Fling was behind Oswald's (now Ted's)...

Summer Place Theatre under the tent...

Great Fun to think about...

I spoke at Hobson Cooperative Nursery School The year my youngest son moved on to elementary school, I spoke of my memories both as a student--- then as a parent of Hobson.  ... Hobson Cooperative.  I called it “my school”- and here we are, countless years later--- and I still consider it “my school”.   ... I started at Hobson when I was three years old.  At the time, I was an only child.  As a parent, I know understand what my mother was going through.  You feel as though your child is leaving the nest (yes, it’s a preschool…but, I think we all kind of feel it!)  Hobson was then held in St. Johns (the church over on Olsen Lane). ... For the first day of school we were outside taking photos and as we do today,  one parent gets to stay for the entire first day of class.  Well, apparently, I got very upset and told my mother to leave- because this was “My school!”  I’m sure she rolled her eyes and said “Oh, Shannon!”  One of the teachers apparently came over and commented on how independent I was.

In the springtime, one week after the parent board signed a lease with the Naperville School District--- the building was broken into.  All the parents rallied all summer long to get that building back in shape in order for the doors to open on time in the fall.  Even as a child, I remember feeling this amazing sense of community.  Mrs. Nurss (one of my teachers) tells the story of getting to know my mother.  She told me “I walked around the corner to find Patti Greene with an electric drill in her hands (and in those days, women didn’t use drills!) I knew she was special.”

I remember fathers walking the swings set from St. Johns down Hobson Road to the school.

Cornfields, forests, gravel roads- then, my school!  ... The huge staircase ...The smell of wood ...

Ms. Bobby (Phelps) and Mrs. Nurse greeting us at the door. ...The pretend fire engines in the basement (which I think were just cars back then) ... My mom re-used my nursery curtains- so there they were hanging in the basement- they were jungle animals. ...Yellow background with hot pink and orange animals ...I remember it being a very big deal (to other people) that Hobson had the first African-American ... family that lived in Naperville.  All I knew, is that Tonya Jetter was my friend-and she had really cool hair. 

Hobson has always embraced its families.  Focusing on their gifts- and loving the children.

Sally Nurss (who is still on our advisory board) presented a program for our parents entitled “Visual Perception: Taking your child to an Art Museum”.  We all sat around one of the tables and she began to read a book (to set the mood)- and I about fell off my chair!  It took me back to me being 4 yrs. Old!  Here she was, at Hobson, reading us a picture with this soothing voice and to top if off, the book was about art!  What a gift!

As Vice President I have the pleasure of holding a “goals” meeting with other members of the Parent board.  While I was heavily preparing for those meetings--- I looked back in the plethora of notes from prior years.  I noticed handwriting that looked very familiar- it was my mothers! That was cool.

How many times in our life do we have the opportunity to connect our childhood and our adult life through a person or a place?  That’s what Hobson is to me--- this connection with all the families who have ever been a part of Hobson.  You can feel it in the wood, the smell in the air (good or bad), the lever-pull toilet (sorry- I had to include that!) the walls, and those amazing trees that will forever watch over our children. ... Hobson--- I thank you.

—Shannon Greene Robb, shannongreenerobb@johngreenerealtor.com

Submitted February 23, 2010

More memories of Cock Robin... I came across your Web site, featuring Cock Robin. It brought back some great memories. ... I was Sales Manager of the company for over 20 years and worked with Walter, Ted Tony and the Store Managers. CR was a place with great people and great products. During my time, we converted all the stores to self-service, except the Grand Avenue location. ... I remember laying out the Brookfield store for self-service. We had to remove the old flooring because of its age and install a new floor. Also, remember the demolition of the old Naperville Prince Castle, after the new store was built. ... When the decision was made to close the company, I joined Petersen's Ice cream Company in Oak Park. We purchased the Cock Robin name and began to set up new stores. ... Thank you so much for keeping its story alive.

—Jim Hubbard 

Submitted February 22, 2010

Editor's Note: Cock Robin Ice Cream in Naperville was located where Fredenhagen Park is now, along the DuPage River at Washington Street near the south entrance to North Central College.

Barbara Heintz remembers when Miriam Fry was the librarian at the Naperville Library.

I remember the great train crash on 4th Avenue. My Mother and sisters and me were visiting my aunt and when we came home the two trains collided in front of are house. My Father was in the fire  department and I remember him handing a small boy over the fence so that she could care for him until they could find his family.  I remember how the insulation from the train floated through the air and covered our front lawn like snow.

From that day on I had many night mares about the trains. I was so happy happy when we moved to "Goosepimple Heights. We could walk to Naper theater and back at night and never worried about being hurt.

I too remember the cow tunnel.  My Mother made us promise to never go through it alone. We used to go to the beach and the girls area was open to

the sky above.  Sometimes small planes would fly over to watch the girls sunning

them selfs in the "buff."

I also remember the grocery store across from Ss.Peter and Paul Church.  It was known to us as as "Zoomies" and my family purchased most of our food  from that little store.

My Mother did not drive and my Father would drop us off and pick us up. Their cookies were in bins with covers and my favorite was a chocolate with

peppermint on top then covered with chocolate.

---Barbara Heintz, bidesign@sbcgloabal.net

Submitted February 14, 2010

Remember the Elbo Room? The old neon sign for the Elbo Room still exists.  It hangs above the bar at the Elbo Room at 2871 North Lincoln Avenue in Chicago.  You can see it at the bottom of their Web page http://www.elboroomchicago.com/elboroom/index.html.

---Mark Pannell, Oak Forest, IL, NCHS Class of 1977

Submitted December 30, 2009

Rip remembers the pretty popcorn salesgirl! I can remember the Naperville stockyards just a short distance west of the end of Spring Street, and the Naperville Post Office that was just a hole in the wall, located on Chicago Ave just west of Stafelts butcher shop (Lantern) where I was sent to buy one gallon of milk for twenty-five cents, quite often. I remember seeing the Naper Academy being taken down to be replaced by the Naper school. And the soup-kitchen that was in the electric light plant on Jackson Street and the old Pre Emption House where Pres.Lincoln supposedly gave a speech. And why is it no one mentioned this pretty girl, Rosemary Barrenbrugy, who sold popcorn on Washington Street?

---Rip, Ripskate@juno.com

Submitted December 26, 2009

Happy memories of growing up in Naperville / I was born in Naperville on Dec. 22, 1926, and lived in my Grandfather's home on Spring Ave. Rufus Netzley. At about age 10 we moved to 339 W Jefferson Ave. the sight of Mr. Naper's home. My parents Earl and Lucile Fry lived their until about 1970.  ... I attended Naper Elementary School and Naperville High School. Graduated with the class of 1945. ... I remember swimming every day at the beach and playing by the roaring DuPage River.  ... In 1947 I was married in the Church of the Brethren, then located on Benton Ave. I have many happy memories of Naperville.

---Arlene Cook, ardel47@verizon.net

Submitted Dec. 19, 2009

Reply to Naper Plaza: I don't know about Woolworth's but there was a department store named Grant's there. They had a counter and especially a pinball machine. The hobby store was called Bart's. I used to buy candy there. I actually  have two photos showing Grant's in the early 60's. After Grant's it was a Moser Lumber.

---Daniel Bulley, dbulley@wideopenwest.com

Submitted Dec. 18, 2009

ID for the December Photo / At first I thought the picture could be the Baltierra family, a family from Mexico that lived in box cars during the 1930s. I have a photo of them and the photo in Positively Naperville looked similar.  Then the more I compared the two photos, I thought of the Wehrli family.  I think the photo is the Wehrlis before the family had 13 children.

---Marge Meisinger

Submitted Dec. 14, 2009

Almost missing in action in Naperville 1959 / A portion of the Stenger Brewery existed as an apartment building stretching west from Eagle street along Jackson to just about Mill St. In 1959 my brother and I snuck in (I'm sure it was unoccupied-perhaps abandoned by that time and went down a long limestone twisting stairwell that opened into the aging tunnels that at one time housed beer kegs in the 1800s, followed by dirt racks used for growing mushrooms. The tunnels were quite elaborate all lined with cut limestone from the quarries. As we made our way North toward the original brewery site at Washington Jr. High School, we were buried (momentarily) when a rack fell over. We scrambled out and got back home. Funny after all these years to think 10 and 11-year-old kids could have gone missing and never been found. The tunnels below the town still exist, and I remember seeing the entrance way covered over by bulldozers when the apartments were razed in 1968. 

---Dennis Frantzen - dkf7142@comcast.net

Submitted Nov. 2009

Thanksgiving 2009 at Meson Sabika / Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Thanksgiving 2009 was the most memorable of all. It began 9 a.m. at Meson Sabika restaurant. The owner, Hossein Jamali and his staff welcomed almost 100 volunteers with coffee and doughnuts as we filled out our name tags and were assigned to teams. The occasion was the annual holiday feast for area residents who could not afford a celebration worthy of the tradition. Each team set 6 tables for 10 with silverware, cloth napkins, bread, butter and ice water. We served salads, coffee, wine, beer, entrees and dessert. Over and over we removed empty dishes and  reset tables. Guests had been assigned arrival times and table numbers. Close to 1800 people were served salad, turkey, yams, vegetables, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream and cranberry sauce.

Around 4 p.m., we cleared the last tables and stacked the chairs. As I headed for the coat room I was surprised to learn it wasn't over!  A line was forming for a delicious buffet turkey dinner for the volunteers, and as we turned to be seated, Mr. Jamali himself was slicing a beautiful roast beef to top off our plates. It was my first time as a volunteer but he said he has been doing this for 8 or 9 years. I asked him why he did it. He smiled, saying he was "brought up to give back" to the community he calls home. "Actually, it's selfishness," he said, "because it makes me happy. And I'll do it as long as I Iive. I'm so glad to be able to." And I  will be so glad to be among next Thanksgiving's volunteers.

---Glenna Holloway

Submitted Nov. 30, 2009

Remember before Naperville merchants checked ID? I remember being sent downtown at age 16 in 1977 (just after I learned to drive) to buy 2 cases of champagne at the liquor store (west of Washington St, but parallel to it, across the street from the old National Grocery). I just filled in the amount on my mother's checkbook, signed the check, and gave it to them. No ID check!

---Mary Murphy, mem43murphy@yahoo.com

Submitted Nov. 8, 2009

Hey, Naperville friends and neighbors! Can you believe it? It was 15 years ago today (Halloween 1994) the Asimakoupoulos family moved into 1416 Terrance Drive. All these many years later we are quick to say it was the best move we ever made.

As you might recall, October 31, 1994, was a miserable day. There was snow, sleet, wind and rain as the movers unloaded the moving van. That night the Packers and Bears played in a major storm in Soldier Field. Sadly, that same night a commuter flight went down in Indiana killing all aboard.

Our three girls were so disappointed with the weather that day. They were forced to cover up their Halloween costumes with heavy winter coats as they went out trick-or-treating. But they were not the only ones feeling low. All five of us wondered what we'd been thinking when we decided to leave sunny, warm California for the cold, flat, stick-tree lined landscape of the windswept Midwest.

Then, as we were about to sit down to a pity party and pine for Skipolini's Pizza back home in Concord, Donna Svensen (a young mom from the Naperville Covenant Church) stopped by. She'd brought us a piping hot casserole.

Instead of a pity party, we sat down to a hot tasty dinner instead. It was the most delicious turkey tetrazzini we'd ever tasted. That proved to be a turning point in our emotional perspective. The Lord nourished our bodies and our faith. Soon we realized how much we really loved our home, our neighborhood and our new town.

Thus began an eleven year sojourn in a town named for Joe Naper, but a town we proudly claimed. It would prove to be a wonderful place to raise children, make friends, earn an income and contribute to the community as we attempted to live out the values of Christ's Kingdom.

This Halloween finds Wendy and me thinking about the Land of Lincoln. And for good reason. Yes, we have happy memories of Naperville this time of year. But add to that this: All three of our daughters are in Chicagoland pursuing their vocational and educational dreams. We miss them and you.

This Halloween weekend we are also thinking about how the war in Iraq impacted our lives personally. It was five years ago this month that Jack Hennessy, our neighbor's son (and our oldest daughter's classmate) was killed in Baghdad. We continue to grieve his death and hold Bernie and Cindy in our hearts before the Lord. We are thrilled that there is an initiative to rename Winding Creek Park in Jack's honor.

Oh, by the way. Guess what we are having for dinner tonight? That's right! Wendy has made Donna's tetrazzini recipe every Halloween night for the past 15 years. It's our way of recalling the goodness of God's people, a memorable day in our family history and a certain town in western suburbs of Chicago that will always claim a huge part of our heart.

With love and best wishes,

—Greg and Wendy Asimakoupoulos, Mercer Island, Washington

Submitted Oct. 31, 2009

Parade Photo ID  in the October Naperville Nostalgia

The photo is of the Steperettes. Don and Elaine Meisinger had two teenage daughters who were in the Steperettes in the 1960s and early 1970s. Kathy and Karen Meisinger no longer live in Naperville. Don is Earl's brother.  Julie Earhart started the Steperettes.  All the girls wore the same costumes, twirled batons and waved flags in parades in the area. They were award-winning, too.  I think the picture was for the Sesquicentennial in 1981. Naperville was much smaller then.

—Marge Meisinger

Submitted Oct. 13, 2009

 

Reply to October Naperville Nostalgia:  Those are the marching Steperettes!  I'd know them anywhere! know Howie and Vicki Mogil very well. I've watched the Steperettes perform for years and years! They're the best!

---Michael Cee

Submitted Oct. 2, 2009

Mature Trees—We are lucky to live, work, shop or dine in Naperville!

Nearly three years ago my wife and I were looking for a new home in a new town.  We agreed on three mandatory criteria during our house search—a fireplace, a basement, and lots of mature trees in the neighborhood. After an exhaustive search, we found our perfect house—it had those mature trees…….but no basement and, well….. no fireplace. We are so fortunate to live or work or shop in Naperville where much of the town (especially near the downtown area) is sprinkled with large, mature trees representing many different species.  I am consistently reminded of our good fortune when friends and family visit from nearby towns.  The very first thing they always say is, “Wow—I love all the big trees in your neighborhood.” 

Aesthetics aren’t the only benefit—there are practical, economic, and environmental benefits. Trees have more impact than just curb appeal, they also make economic sense. I grew up in Downers Grove among mammoth, 150 year old oak trees. My parents’ block, in particular, is a sought after street in regards to real estate because it has such large, mature trees—more so than even the blocks on either side.  In fact, mature trees can increase your home value up to 15% (that is $45,000 for a $300,000 home).  According to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, the value of a single mature tree can be worth between $1,000 and $10,000—not a small chunk of change by any means. 

In addition, trees help cool homes in the summer by as much as 9 degrees. In fact, according to the American Public Power Association, trees block direct sunlight on your house walls and can cut air conditioning costs by as much as 50%.  They also lose their leaves yet block some wind in the winter allowing the sun to warm your house, reducing gas and electric bills between 10 and 40%.  The benefits don’t stop here--mature trees also buffer unwanted noises by up to 50% (U.S. E.P.A.), provide privacy from the street and between houses, and even provide a natural jungle gym for kids to play.  They also blend in less visually attractive features such as fence lines, siding, chimneys, etc., while providing natural habitat for birds and wildlife.  The environmental benefits are endless—one notable fact is that one mature tree removes 1.47 tons of carbon dioxide and replaces it with approximately a ton of oxygen (Arbor Life Consulting).  As far as the brilliant, breathtaking colors that appear every fall……well, no comment is needed here.  

OK—so if you are excited now, here is the good news—planting trees are easy—dig a hole and plop it in (of course there are a few more technicalities, but not many).  I recommend doing it yourself, as it is quite rewarding and doesn’t take long at all.  If you aren’t up for the challenge, however, landscaping companies or nurseries can plant your tree for a small fee.  Maintenance is very little—just water on occasion when it is newly planted.  Now here is the best part—just sit back and watch it grow over the years.   Trees are cheapest in the fall when home improvement stores and nurseries are trying to turn over their stock for the season.  The best time to plant trees is in the fall and spring—as it is less taxing on the trees than the hot, dry summer.   When, and if, your tree ever grows too close to your house, or if you simply would like more sun in your yard, a tree trimmer can perform amazing feats to trim or thin out your tree rather inexpensively. 

Of course, if you would like a tree on your parkway, Naperville will split the cost with you. I was amazed at how inexpensive it was for a good size tree—and they plant it for you.  You get to pick the species—thirteen to choose from. The website is www.naperville.il.us/dynamic_content.aspx?id=1886   or call Public Works at (630) 420-6095.   

Please email me with comments or questions—or simply to tell me you are planting a tree!  It excites me…..really!

—Todd Mertz, Todd_mertz@ipsd.org

Submitted September 29, 2009

PN reader connects Fredenhagen Park concert and more...

I wish to thank the Naperville Riverwalk Foundation for bringing the "Class Act 2" band to Fredenhagen Park another year (Sept. 19, 2009). My wife and I enjoyed the entertainment which complimented the Fine Arts Fair on Jackson Ave. We hope this will continue to be an annual tradition at Fredenhagen Park.

When I was a  seventeen year old kid back in 1969, I sat on that very spot where Cock Robin Ice cream once stood in my car listening to Grand Funk Railroad, Jefferson Airplane, Steppenwolf and Jimi Hendrix on 8 track tapes. Who would have predicted back then that forty years later I would be sitting on that same spot with people over 20 years my senior listening to big band music. Only in Naperville!

I am an avid reader of "Positively Naperville" and look forward to it's arrival at the beginning of the month. I know we have met at least once. I was at the Doughboy statue re-dedication back in 2003. ...

I grew up in 1960's Naperville when the Du Page River was a polluted murky foamy smelly waterway. It wasn't unusual to find picnic tables, shopping carts and discarded tires poking above the water's surface. What we have today was a result of a couple of guys wanting to see something better for downtown Naperville. Without this vision in the early 1980's, there would be no Fredenhagen Park today. The entire Riverwalk is Naperville's signature "must see" attraction.

I was sorry to see the demise of Cock Robin Ice Cream but, elated to see what's  transpired on the property. Fredenhagen  Park is one of the many "gems" of Naperville we always show our out of town friends. It would be equally satisfying to see something positive spring up on the Southeast end of the bridge. (The Burger King must stay!)

I DO have a lot of Naperville memories. I suppose I should start documenting these while  they're still fresh in my head. What's this leading to... a book?

—Paul Mejia, Naperville,IL

Submitted September 21, 2009

Memories of Naperville Plaza located at Washington and Gartner: I lived in Naperville in the late 60's, until 2nd grade.  I do remember quite a few things though:

-Casey's Foods was a Jewel, Woolworth was there (in Naperville Plaza) with a lunch counter, and there was a carnival in the parking lot where the newer stores are.  Does anyone remember the name of the penny candy store next to Woolworth?

-going to Cock Robin for milk shakes before the series finale of the Fugitive (on TV).

-a very dark and murky swimming hole that was Centennial Beach

-Rumberstitzkin at the Naper Theater.

-Shoplifting some Necco wafers at the grocery store that is now Anderson Bookstore (shh...)

-the sound the scissors made when cutting fabric at Broeker's.

-Sweden House and the Skelly Station across the street

-conning my mom into buying me a Matchbox at the Jewel checkout

-when Tanoak Lane was called Tanoak Lane (my old street)

-very few houses and lots of farmland

-the hugh Meadowbrook pool!

—Mike Brennan,  atlmike1962@yahoo.com

Submitted Sept. 18, 2009

Memories of Naperville Plaza located at Washington and Gartner: I'm probably going to send another note to the site tomorrow.  I thought of some other stuff... But...this was late 1960s, I think it's now Casey's Foods.  It used to just be two sides of stores.  I was only 6, but I remember a lot from back then.  Used to be a Woolworth with soda fountain there, too.  We lived on tanks.  I'll wed it with other stuff tomorrow though.  Thx

—Mike Brennan,  atlmike1962@yahoo.com

Submitted Sept. 17, 2009

PN's publisher remembers Walter Cronkite's image on America's Bicentennial

Before I was a mother of three children or a Daily Herald columnist or a newspaper publisher, I owned a specialty-order cake business in New York City called Creative Cakes. Many of my custom cakes were designed for actors on Broadway, the wonderful creative folks at Jerry Della Femina's advertising agency where I had been employed, and journalists in the media who worked at ABC, NBC and CBS.

Friday evening, July 17, 2009, my son Jeff rushed to tell me  

                                                    Walter Cronkite had died at the age of 92. 

Back in 1976, producers at CBS ordered a Styrofoam                                                                   shape of the United States to be decorated in red, white                                                                and blue frosting for Cronkite's bicentennial publicity photo,                                                           a special "cake" design that could hold 200 blazing candles                                                          in celebration of America's birthday.

This photo has been hanging in the Penick kitchen since                                                              Jeff was a baby. Otherwise, how would a 26-year-old                                                                     know Walter Cronkite had created a memory in my life?

Thanks for reading Positively Naperville where our writers and columnists try to stay focused on the facts as we present good news, cultural events, fundraisers, insights and commentary about the way it is in this community more times than not!

—Stephanie Penick, Publisher

Submitted to remember journalist and CBS anchorman Walter Cronkite, age 92, upon his death on July 17, 2009.

Wheel-O-Meal Memory for Naperville Nostalgia! I remember the Wheel-O-Meal really well because I was a carhop there in 1961 and 1962 (graduated from NCHS in '62).  It was a GREAT place to work and Jerry Constantine, the owner, was a wonderful guy to work for.  He taught a bunch of crazy kids how to work hard and run a successful business. 

—Glenda Hillard

Submitted August 17, 2009

Editor's Note: The former Naperville resident now lives in Arkansas.

Answer to Rosebud's question in August 2009 PN: Before Rosebud, Morgan's Crossing filled the space. They were there about 9 years. Then there was Peck's Hickory Smokehouse. It was owned by Richard Peck who eventually bought the building and leased the space to Rosebud.

—Brand Bobosky

Submitted Aug. 10, 2009

Name of Bakery for Naperville Nostalgia request from July 24, 2009: The father of Barbara Hayden had Hayden's Bakery at 107 Jefferson.  Barbara was a classmate of mine in the graduating class of 1949.  Gary Hoormann was inquiring about this in the August, 2009 issue of Positively Naperville.

—Jim Haas

Submitted Aug. 9, 2009

In reply to the query about the bakery at 107 Jefferson called Hayden's Bakery: Barbara Hayden's brother, Pat Hayden, graduated from Naperville High School with me in 1940.

—Marge Meisinger

Reader posts challenge for Naperville Nostalgia: Here's a real nostalgia challenge for PN readers. I have a German translation of the New Testament, printed in New York in 1881. The inscription reads, in part, "German Evangelical Sunday School of Naperville, Il., Dec 25, 1881" Does anyone know anything about the Sunday School?

—Shirley Pace

Submitted August 7, 2009

Answer regarding former restaurants in the Rosebud location: Before Rosebud...Peck's Smokehouse.

—Dan Casey, Owner of Casey's Foods

Submitted August 4, 2009

Editor's Note: Recently Rich Janevisius (see below) inquired about the restaurants that thrived for a time in the Rosebud location of Main and Chicago. First was Morgan's Crossing followed Peck's Smokehouse.

What restaurants occupied Rosebud's spot before Rosebud? First of all, I thoroughly enjoy reading Positively Naperville Nostalgia. It is fun to read about what used to exist....and sadly has become part of Naperville's historic past.  My wife and I have lived in Naperville since 1986, and, while we, by no means, consider ourselves long time residents, it's amazing how many places mentioned at Positively Naperville (Nostalgia) still existed  when we first moved into town - Like Clyde Netzly Dodge and The Elbo Room at the bowling alley, and the Beach Inn on Jackson by Centennial beach.

We were having a discussion with friends, ironically at the Grumpy Bulldog on Jackson Ave. (which I believe was where the Naperville Sun's office used to be) about the building where Rosebud restaurant currently exists (48 West Chicago Avenue). When we first moved here, we remember another restaurant in that location, followed by some sort of bar-be-que restaurant, before Rosebud moved there. I thought maybe someone at PN might remember.

Thanks again for the great view into Naperville's' history.

—Rich Janevicius

Submitted July 13, 2009

Does anyone remember a bakery at 107 W. Jefferson? A friend was telling me how her grandfather use to have a bakery at 107 Jefferson where the Irish Store is now located.  This would have been in the 1930's.  I was wondering if anyone has a memory of the bakery.  Perhaps there is a photo of Jefferson Street from that period showing the bakery. ...   Any help you can give is appreciated.

—Gary Hoormann

Submitted July 24, 2009

Naperville Nostalgia Photo July 2009 / Why were these men ready to parade in 1931? They were getting ready for Naperville's Centennial Parade on its anniversary in the summer of 1931.

—Marge Meisinger

A message from outgoing Exchange Club President Brett Flickinger:

I would like to thank the Ribfest Steering Committee and Dave Harrington for all the time and hard work they put into making Ribfest a success this year. Thanks also is extended to each club member involved.  I am still amazed that a club of volunteers can do something so amazing each year. Congratulations!!

—Submitted July 6, 2009

Editor's Note:  At the end of Ribfest every year, leadership is passed on to the next president. Pete Rocush is the new president of the Exchange Club of Naperville beginning July 6, 2009. For several years, Rocush has been the club's chairman of the Memories Fountain fundraiser at Fredenhagen Park along the Riverwalk. www.exchangeclub.org.

Landforms on the Riverwalk / Eagle at Jackson

Naperville Art League Commissioned Landforms Sculpture: Your Positively Naperville photo in your June Naperville Nostalgia section shows three people with a red maquette in front, and a brown unpainted welded metal platesection of the Riverwalk's "Landforms" behind the people. They are part of the commissioning group from the Naperville Art League with Betty Zahn (painter) on the right, Jim Throne (Pres. and pen and ink artist), and Sheila Bruns (sculptor) on the left. The date was June 15, 1984. For a progress report on the Art League's commissioned sculpture, we were visiting the sculptor Jack Arnold at the Cadillac Tank & Metal Fabricators in Addison where the sculpture was being fabricated. The Riverwalk Architect Charles Vincent George, and the Riverwalk Project Manager Hal Dickson were there for the progress inspection also. The Naperville Art League's commissioned "Landforms" was dedicated on the Riverwalk in September of 1984.

—Sheila Bruns, Naperville Art League 

Submitted June 19, 2009

Naperville Nostalgia June Update / Correction for Page 9 photo--Sheila Bruns is the lady in the white slacks, the man was Naperville Art League president Jim Throne at Cadillac Tank & Fabrication Shop in Addison, IL. They are inspecting spot welded Landforms. This was done before final finishing. Hal Dickson & others were there that day getting information for the installation. Thank you Sheila Bruns for correcting me!!

—Julie Corwith, Member Naperville Art League

Submitted June 18, 2009 later in the afternoon

PN June 2009 issue has a photo of the Landforms maquette with Betty Zahn on the right, I think sculptor Jack Arnold in the middle and am checking on the lady's identity who is on the left. She resembles Naperville Art League's past president Ardys Goodridge but need to get that confirmed. The model is and always was red. Jim Moser purchased it.

—Julie Corwith, Member of Naperville Art League

Submitted June 18, 2009

Answer to Query about the Freight Car at the Bottom of Netzley Quarry: 

There is no freight car at the bottom of any of the quarries. The big quarry was drained in the 50's with nothing on the bottom. We used to scuba dive in the Netzley Quarry (little quarry). There is still some equipment at the bottom, north wall, equipment for raising stone, east side about 1/2 way to the center there is a hand cart for hauling stone, tracks that the cart is on, and on the south wall there is a lot of junk that was dumped there years ago. As should be noted nothing in the Centennial Beach, we see the bottom every year. What was called the double quarry, where the Park District Administration Office is, was filled in with both junk and clean fill. There was nothing on the bottom there before it was filled in by the city.

—Jon Ripsky, June 1, 2009

Naperville Nostalgia discovered online by former resident

Remember the Wheel-O-Meal in the 1960s?  And the Barn, where all the high school kids hung out in the 60s?

—Pamela Balcomb Herring, Carmel, Indiana

Submitted April 1, 2009

Reply to three responses clarifies photo of women with ice cream cartons

As for the Naperville Nostalgia in the March PN, I will tell you which one is correct.  Actually, all three responses are correct and yet incorrect at the same time.  ... Peg Yonker said the ladies were preparing boxes for the ice cream for the man in the back.  The woman to the right was filling the cartons while the ladies were opening and then closing the boxes and putting them on the conveyer belt.  The man who was there was only filling the large metal cans with ice cream.  The woman filling the cartons never spilled a drop!!  She was so proud of that and rightfully so!!   ...    Mary Ann Bobosky wrote that her SS Peter and Paul class took the tour to observe the Cock Robin staff.  If she was talking about being an the ice plant production then it might have been C.R.  If she was there as a student, it would have been Prince Castle.  So she might have been 100% correct.   ...   Ray Schumacher said the lady on the right was Mrs. Warner.  She was not Mrs. Warner but Mrs. Campbell, mother of Mrs. Worner.  Mrs. Worner (note spelling) was the wife of Roger Worner who was with Brummel's car agency.  Ray was close!!  And I do think the photo is from Prince Castle days since later a piece of machinery replaced all the ladies on the line.  I don't know when that machine was purchased.  ... This was fun.  You're doing a super job with PN.

—Rita Harvard

Editor's Note: Rita Harvard is the daughter of Grace and Walter Fredenhagen, founders of Prince Castle and Cock Robin Ice Cream.

Submitted on March 8, 2009.

Former resident remembers wedding in the Riverwalk Amphitheatre in 1982

I was just reading a little bit about my home town of Naperville. I don’t get to visit as much as I used to, but when I have, we always go down to the Riverwalk. It has grown so since we were married there in 1982.

It is possible that we may have been the first, or one of the first, couples to be married at the Riverwalk, and I understand that over the last 27 years it has become an extremely popular site for weddings. I am wondering if the town keeps a list of all the couples married there. Is there any commemorative plaque or way to contribute specifically in memory of our wedding? I saw that you can buy bricks, but can they be located in only one area or can they be located at the spot where our ceremony was held.

When I requested to be married at the new Riverwalk in 1982, I was initially told that it wouldn’t be possible because my future husband and I did not live in Naperville at the time. Then Mayor Rybicki intervened and sent a lovely letter to us giving us his blessings, saying that he knew that I would always consider Naperville home. And, indeed, I do, even though it barely resembles the quaint farming community of 18,000 people residing there when I left for college in 1968.

Oh, I went miles away to school, Northern Illinois University, and I cried when we first entered the city of DeKalb, complaining to my Mom that I was sure that they all sold corn seed in the back of every store! Ah youth! Of course, by then Naperville was such a thriving metropolis with real subdivisions that DeKalb just looked like nothing but farms. We used to drive the back way to DeKalb through Ferme labs before they closed the gates there.

Our wedding took place at the little amphitheater area, which is now across or close to the library. I don’t think the library had yet been built in 1982 and there was definitely nothing built on the south shore of the river. Is this area close to the Exchange Club Memories Fountain? Washington to Hillside? Oh my goodness! How things change! I better stop, I am starting to feel ancient.

—Christine Rabinowitz, Bedford, Massachusetts, another small town, about 20 miles west of Boston. Submitted Feb. 11, 2009

If you got married on the Riverwalk prior to 1982, please contact Stephanie@positivelynaperville.com.

Naper Settlement Research Associates answer PN's call for help

On April 25, 1946 the west bound Exposition Flyer crashed into the standing Advance Flyer. The Advanced Flyer was stopped at the Naperville station. The wreck occurred at 1:10PM.  45 people died and there were several hundred injured.  800 Kroehler employees rushed to help - many of them helping well over 24 hours - the cafeteria was open to aid the injured.

I am not aware of any memorials on or near the cite.

I believe at the present time - Justin Dexter at NCTV-17 would be the most knowledgeable about the Wreck (short of those who participated in the relief efforts and are still living).

I could not find a complete list of the 45 victims - so today I compiled a data sheet of the known victims mentioned in various newspaper articles.  There were no Napervillians listed among the dead or injured.

The victims were: Arthur Abbott of Berwyn, IL, Dining car steward; Dorothy Lindzion of Aman, Omaha; August H. Anderson of Lincoln, NE; Joseph Bentler of Donnellson, IA; "Beulter" Delbert Boon of Luray ?, MO; Ralph Vance Brown of Chicago, IL, Negro; Daniel N. Carr  of Chicago, IL;  Daniel "Nathaniel" Negro; Charles Chamberlain of Chicago, IL; Charlotte W.Collins, 71, of Hannibal, MO; Eugene Everett Conner of South Bend,  IN; Marian Johanna Crafts of Quincy,      IL; E. H. Crayton, 45 of Galesburg, IL; Kenneth W. Dickhut of Quincy, IL Or San Diego, CA; Mary Alberta Farley of Omaha, NE; Kay L. Flotkoetter of Chicago,  IL; Richard E. Howard of Stillwell, IL, Discharged sailor in uniform; Elvis A. King  of Chicago, IL; "Dworsick" Prado; Albert J. Lane, 56, of Chicago, IL, Chief investigator Hartford Insurance; Mary Langen, 45, of Quincy, IL; Matthew Lawrence of Escanaba, MI; Margaret Lawrence of Escanaba, MI; Elza Lett, Jr. of Kenova, WV; Harry W. Long, 21 of Burlington  IA, Post Office? US Postal Badge Serviceman No. 50819; Mayme  Mennen of Burlington,  IA; Mrs. P. L. Al N. Miller, 37, of Chicago, IL; Leo P. Moos of Moorehead, MN; Rose Moos of Moorehead, MN; John R. Ralston of Des, IL; John "Nicholas" Fred Robinson, 62, of Council Bluffs, IA; Lizzie Rohr of Chicago,  IL; Abraham Rohr, 75, of Chicago, IL; Leona Saylor, 27, of Washington, D.C., Government employee; Emma B. Schetz  of Lombard, IL or Emily Schutz; E. Read Sherwood of Chicago, IL, Salesman Registered at the Consolidated Stevens Hotel; Sophie Sromovsky, 29, of Plymouth, PA, Wife of Master or New Jersey; Sargent John A.,he; Howard Clinton Stimson of Carman, IL; Lucy Takashima, of Quincy, IL, Student Nurse at St. Mary's Hospital; Bernard H. Voss of Quincy, IL, Seaman First Class; Eleanor Whitehead of Weymout, MA ; Russell L. Whitehead,  19, of Hereford, TX; Terry Lee Wiley, 4, of Burlington  IA; Randall Wiley, 2, Burlington,  IA; Maralin  Wiley, 27, Burlington,  IA; Florence Wilson, State PA College; Clifford Yarbrough, 58, Alton, IL; "Yarborough"  "Vandalia"                     

Earl Leffler list & Chicago Sun 4/26/46 & Mason City Globe- 4/26/46

—Bryan J. Ogg, Research Associate, Naper Settlement Museum

Submitted February 2-6, 2009

NCTV17 is working on a short piece about this tragedy for an upcoming piece on a few different tragedies that have taken place in Naperville.... Liz Spencer may be interested in hearing his family’s story.  And Mr. Spinner may be interested to know of its future airing (it’s not completed yet).

—Debbie Grinnell,  Director of Preservation Services, Naper Settlement Museum

Submitted February 2, 2009

February 2009 Nostalgia photo answers:

The four women are preparing ice cream cartons to be filled by the man in the back. ...  No doubt, in Prince Castle in Naperville.

—Peg Yonker, Submitted February 6, 2009

I believe the Naperville Nostalgia picture is of Cock Robin.  Our SS Peter and Paul Class took a field trip to the plant and watched the Cock Robin staff pack ice cream. We all got a 3 dip sherbet ice cream cone.

—Mary Ann Bobosky, Submitted February 6, 2009

The picture is from Prince Castle. They are assembling ice cream cartons. The lady on the right is Mrs. Warner. She was the wife of Roger Warner who was in partnership with Brummel's who had the Buick agency.

—Ray Schumacher, Submitted February 3, 2009

Queries from former Naperville resident regarding 1946 train accident...

I was born on October 22, 1946, the same year as the tragic train wreck in Naperville that took place on April 25, 1946.  We lived just a block or block and a half from the tragic collision.  My father, John Spinner, who worked at Kroehler's at the time, was one of the many people who was at the site helping out.  Our family kept my mother Louise, who was pregnant with me, away from the site because they thought the trama might affect the pregnancy.

  

I was clearing out some files today and came across an article on the tragedy that took place 63 years ago this April.  I was wondering why there was never a memorial set up at the site in commemoration of the people who lost their lives on this day.  I have never seen a list of the casualties from the wreck.

  

Were there any people from Naperville, or were they all from some other single destination or a variety of destinations?  I know your site is Positively Naperville and this is a tragic occurrence, but why can't we make a positive out of a negative?  Why can't the city still put up a sign or memorial at or near the site?  Why can't we investigate the list of casualties and if there is a town from which most of these people came from, why can't we inform them of a memorial service that would take place in conjunction with the erection of this memorial.  Couldn't the schools work on oral histories from people still alive who witnessed this event?  I can see all sorts of research projects and contests that schools could work on.  I'm sure that if all the deceased had been from Naperville, there would have been many memorials.  However, these deceased certainly deserve our prayers and remembrances in a form similar to which we would have given our own.

  

Couldn't the Burlington railroad or the other railroad involved in this collision step up and defray some of the costs and be involved in the development of a proper memorial.

  

I can't understand why nothing has been done before in this regard.  But, it is never too late.

  

Whatta say?  I'd love to be present at such a commemoration.  Yes, it can be done and if any town can do it, Naperville can - I'm positive!

  

Anxious to hear your response.

—Chuck Spinner, spinlake@windstream.net

Submitted February 1, 2009 / Please copy responses to stephanie@positivelynaperville.com.

Do you have vintage photos of Camp Seager? 

OK, for the last 20 years I have wanted to create a book of memories and PHOTOS of our beloved Camp Seager. You see, I was and always will be a Plank Road Gal even though our farm has been gone since the 80's. ANYBODY who has photos or memories, please share. I would like pictures of Bethany (the old hotel) The Tabernacle (where church services were held) The Dining Hall, The Candy Store and of course, The Cabins and the old bridge, Can anybody help? Thanks so much, and anybody who used to sled down the old hill knows it's the best place in town for sledding!!!

—Jennifer Hagemann Berthold, (630) 202 2975 or e-mail Jenniferberthold@aol.com

Submitted Dec. 17, 2008

Story posted on Naperville Nostalgia

The security software on my computer "positively" refuses to allow me to do practically anything!  I submitted a "Nostalgia Memory" through the online form on "Positively Naperville," but I can't tell if it really went through or not. Can you confirm that an entry was received from Edie Postiglione, on Saturday, Dec 6, about 4:45PM?

—Edie Postiglione

Editor's Note:  Yep! PN received the story about camping out in Seager Park. Read it below!

Remembering Camp Seager then and now...

Our back yard adjoins what used to be known as "Camp Seager." We moved to this place in 1983, when my daughter was still in Junior High. I remember one weekend when she was in high school, she said, "Mom, if we have a camp out, would you and [Dad] chaparone? That "we" referred to her circle of about eight friends at the time, comprised of both boys and girls.  My response of, "Oh, Cindy, I don't know...I'll have to talk that over with Gary," was immediately translated in her mind to (and telegraphed as such to all her friends as), "We can do it! [Have a campout.]  It's only a question of whether they'll chaperone!" It was a night to remember. My husband slept in "the boys' tent," and I slept in "the girls' tent," but in truth, nobody slept at all.

      

That was back when the property was still owned by the Methodist Church, and it was wonderful.  In the late 80's, the developers began casting their covetous eyes upon that beautiful woods, but back then we had members on the park board who understood the value of - and absolute necessity of having - natural spaces available to the residents.  And so, to the true chagrin of all the developers, the park board bought it, and that woods became our beloved Seager Park.

      

We are all so very fortunate the members who apparently control the park board now were not in control then.  If they were, we would probably not have Seager Park today.  I say this because the park board may well have an opportunity to add an incredibly beautiful and unique parcel of land to the park, but they have, for some incomprehensible reason, declared that parcel "unsuitable." At least that's what I'm told.

      

What could possibly be "unsuitable"?  It's adjacent to the park on TWO sides, is heavily wooded, and has a ravine that, while absolutely breathtaking to the eye, is a terrible problem for a builder.

—Edie Postiglione, ms_edie@comcast.net

Submitted Dec. 6, 2008

Folks identify folks in the December Naperville Nostalgia photo!

Yes, it's 2 in the morning, and I'm reading Positively Naperville. You see, it all began on a cold and dreary night when the dog started barking at something moving -- probably a coyote -- in the back yard in the wee early hours.  That's what they call that time of the night, because that's what the dog needs to do, when she's awake and barking.  And if she's barking at something in the back yard, it's time to take her out in the front yard to do her work.  And there on the front porch was the latest edition (December) of Positively Naperville.  And whenever it arrives, or if I find it in the rack at Wilma's, I positively just can't put it down until I've seen what all the fine folks have to say.

And there on page 9 under Naperville Nostalgia, by our old friend Popular Demand, is a great picture of three pioneers of Naperville's City Manager form of government, which was voted in by referendum in 1969.  The following year C. William "Bill" Norman started on as City Manager.  He's the fellow in the center of the picture.  To the left in the picture is Allan Poole, director of Water & Wastewater back in those days, and the only one still with the city today -- now as the Public Utilities Director.  To the right in the picture is G. Kenneth "Ken" Small, our mayor back then.

The three of them, along with Ned Becker -- running the transportation department -- set the stage to build Naperville into the great city it is today.  They were the foundation upon which all of today's city grew.  There were so many people involved along the way, but these men set the standards which attracted such a diverse business base to our fledgling community of less than 23,000 people in 1970.

I'm looking forward to picking up a copy of Kay Stephens' story about Ken Small and his vision for a thriving downtown, a strong business base and great neighborhoods.  But not in these wee hours.  Good night.

—Steve Hyett

Submitted Dec. 2, 2008

I heard I was in the picture in Positively Naperville.  That photo was taken back in 1973 for the groundbreaking of the Springbrook Water Reclamation Center in the south part of Naperville.  I had started my job as director of Water and Wastewater in 1992. I have the original 8 1/2 x 11 photo back when we had long hair and wore white suits. The rest of the photo shows us with shovels.

—Allan Poole, Director of Public Utilities for the City of Naperville

Submitted Dec. 2, 2008

Director of Utilities (water/wastewater) Allan Poole

City Manager C. William Norman

Mayor Ken Small

—Melissa Jones

Submitted Dec. 2, 2008 (First to reply to December Naperville Nostalgia.)

For the record, PN's Naperville Nostalgia received most brief memory!

I was safe!!

—Jim Drendel

Submitted Nov. 15, 2008

Can anyone confirm this 30-year-old story?

When we were kids back in the early 70's, Dave Wehrli told me that there was a train car at the bottom of the quarry across the street from NCHS.  I have stated this as fact to anyone who would listen for decades.  Dave doesn't know where he heard this, but swears it is true.  Can anyone confirm?

—Ken Eichwald

Editor's Note: Contact Ken Eichwald via e-mail at kceichwald@yahoo.com.

Submitted Nov. 6, 2008

This is such a classic Naperville story that our dear Mayor Pradel suggested I send it off to Positively Naperville for all to enjoy.

A few years back, while celebrating a fellow “Westsider’s” birthday, I was talking with a group of people and John Mohler was standing next to me and said, “Hey, didn’t you grow up on a farm on Plank Road?” Yes, I said, I did. Then he asked, “Did you used to have your own gas tanks in the back yard?” And of course, I answered, yes, as most of the farmers had their own fuel right on the farm.

Then John began to tell me of a night back in the late seventies when he ran out of gas on Plank Road, and then my father, Walt Hagemann, came to his rescue and pumped out enough “regular” gas for John to get home to Highland Ave. John said my Dad told him, “I expect you can repay me some day.”

Well, I smiled and told John I sure was glad my father could help him back then and at that point, John pulled out two bucks from his pocket and said, “Please give this to your father, with many thanks.”

The next week, I relayed the story to my father and gave him the two dollars. Of course, he recalled the young man and knew exactly what I was talking about, as he never forgets a thing!  We all had a nice laugh and more importantly we all were touched by the true Naperville spirit that continues to warm our hearts even 30 some years after the fact.

—Submitted by Jennifer H. Berthold

Oct. 23, 2008

Please pass on to your readers this information regarding Naper School's Fall Adult Clothing Resale (Always check the October calendar for days and times every year). I have been enjoying Naperville Nostalgia on www.positivelynaperville.com. ... My husband and I both attended North Central College and he bought his first "Interview Suit" at the Naper School Clothing Resale in 1983!

—Leigh Finnegan

Submitted Sept. 12, 2008

Michael Mayer remembers...Arnold Palmer Putt Putt... Jimmy Drendle (or is it Drendel?) safe sliding into home (but called out) 1962 Little League Regionals... Carl Wrenn: The best Flintstone Cover artist of all time.... Pineapple milkshakes at Cock Robin... Catching crawfish in the DuPage River ... Snows of 1977 & 1978... Sister DiRichi Boys Choir.

—Michael Mayer

Submitted Aug. 23, 2008

My next trip back to Naperville (left in 1956) will be when the Cubs are in the World Series. ...After retiring from the US Navy in 1983 I settled in St Croix, US Virgin Islands and I've been there ever since. I've since re-retired and currently do nothing but daily weather forecast on my website - www.martysweather.com.

I visited "Bope" Schrader, a high school classmate, for our 50th anniversary a couple of years ago.

—Marty Merrick, NCHS '56

Posted August 2, 2008

While sitting under a beautiful shade tree at the BEACH yesterday, I showed my sister Calista this picture (Naperville Nostalgia / July) and she rattled the names off like it was yesterday, so here goes.  Top left is Dale Frank [who she said died in a tragic sledding accident coming down Jefferson Hill, many years ago] next is Don Darfler, then Ed Keserg, Ian Dornburg, Herb Matter and Don Hoin.  The only one I questioned was Ian Dornburg, because I thought it was one of the past lifeguards at the beach, but for the life of me I can’t come up with his name.  Anyway give Calista Wehrli credit for having a pretty clear mind yesterday.  I really love Positively Naperville and pick it up at Casey’s or the tennis club monthly….Thanks.

—Ann Jansen

Remember Andy's Popcorn? Owner Andy Stoos was my great uncle. When not popping, he and other gentlemen played checkers in the back. There was a gumball machine in front, not many charms, he saved most for me, that was the great part about having an "Uncle Andy".

—Jean Tannery/Chastain, submitted May 5, 2008

Some of my greatest memories growing up in the 60's and early 70's revolve around summertime.  The parades were my favorite!  I lived on Hillside and remember clearly (after I was old enough) walking to Washington Street with a friend to see the parade.  The Fourth of July fireworks held at Naperville Central, the Band Shell, Centennial Beach, roller skating outside at the rink on Ogden, The Last Fling, ice cream at the Cock Robin, pop corn and a drive in movie and bowling at Sports Bowl etc. etc.  Naperville was a kid's dream for a home town. Thanks for the memories!

   I now live in Cleveland, Tennessee.  I married someone from here. My Mom, Sandy Christian Ray Starowesky, grew up there too.  She still attends reunions and stays in touch with old friends. She knows about everybody from old Naperville.  I remember Mayor George when I was a little girl.  How old is he?

—Debbie Ray Sherlin, DSherlin@nccog.org

Submitted April 29, 2008

Editor's Note: Mayor George Pradel was born in September 1937.

Bill Abe is honored with Jaycees’ Life Achievement’ DSA

Yes! My dad did received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Naperville Jaycees at their 30th Annual Distinguished Service Awards  "Oh What a Night" on Fri. April 25, 2008. My brother John and I were the presenters for the Lifetime Achievement Award and shared a few stories about his volunteering/ involvement in the community over the years. 

           We were very honored and excited to present the award to our dad especially since he was a charter member of the Naperville Jaycees. All 3 of us kids were also Naperville Jaycees members over the years so and it was fun to share some humorous stories about his volunteerism and community involvement.  He laughed! 

—Jane E. Abe

Biography of William Abe

Calling Naperville his home for over 65 years, William (Bill) Abe has been dedicated the community and an influence and inspiration to many.  Born in Appleton, WI, Bill come to Naperville to attend North Central College and graduated in 1950 after serving in the Navy Air Corp. during WWII for 2 1/2/ years.  He has been an active force at the College, including offering his strong leadership not only to the Board of Trustees (since 1966) but also to the Alumni Board (since 1962).   In 1976, he received the College’s Outstanding Alumni Award, and in 1997, he received the school’s Gael D. Swing Award for Meritorious Service, one of the highest accolades bestowed by North Central.  Bill was named Life Trustee of North Central College in 2002.  He continues to lend his wisdom to Board deliberations as a Life Trustee.

His community involved spring boarded in 1954 when he was a chartered member of the Naperville Jaycees, holding several positions during his time with the organization. (All three of his children become involved in the Naperville Jaycees decades later.)  One year later, Bill became a chartered member of the Naperville Kiwanis Club (i.e.: Evening Kiwanis) and still attends their Monday meetings! Also in 1955 he joined the Naperville Country Club. Then in 1994, Bill received the American Legions’ “Citizen of the Year Award ” and in 1996 received the Naperville Kiwanis “George F. Hixson Award”.

From 1977 – 1992, Abe was an active board member of the City of Naperville Electric Advisory Board, when the community experienced its single biggest population surge (+39,739) in the Chicagoland area.  Paving the way for Naperville and its way purchasing of electricity that saved $$ for its residents. 

As a 50+ year member of Grace United Methodist Church, Abe has held numerous leadership roles with in the Church and in the Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church.  From leading Sunday School to Church Trustee to Foundation Member, Bill also played a big roll in the land, building and moving of the Church, to its present day location on Gartner Road.

Bill still commutes to Chicago (everyday) to Stifel, Nicolaus & Co., Inc., as Senior Vice President for Investments and has basically been with the same company since August 1, 1950 (through corporate buyouts, company mergers, office moves).  He even finds time to continue his national work as Treasurer for FIHE (Federation of Independent Higher Education).

Married for over 53 years to fellow North Central College grad, Mary Bomberger , they have 3 children and 5 grandchildren, all who live in Naperville.  Bill is an avid Green Bay Packers fan even through he has not lived in WI since graduating from high school.

—Posted on April 28, 2008

Another Naperville Nostalgic Note...Listening to Sad Sam Jone's no-hitter in the car going to football practice from High School.

—Marty Merrick (Naperville Central High School '56), mmerric@attglobal.net

Submitted April 27, 2008

Former resident writes a book of prayers

Our dad, John Spinner worked 25 years at Kroehler's and then was co-owner the Naperville Liquor Store (where Starbucks is now) until his death in 1961. Our mom, Louis Rechenmacher Spinner worked at Wehrli's Home Appliance for many years.

  

Chuck Spinner, born and raised in Naperville and now a resident of Ashville, New York, has recently published A Book of Prayers: To the Heavens from the Stars. The book is a collection of  beautiful favorite prayers from 118 wonderful celebrities including Oscar winners, Olympic Gold Medallists, four-star generals, a Nobel Peace Prize recipient, and even a Monarch and three former Miss Americas. Prayers have come from the only hurler to ever pitch a perfect World Series game; from the player who hit "the shot heard round the world"; from the only two time Heisman trophy winner; and from the only four time NCAA wrestling champion.  Former Cleveland Browns lineman Doug Dieken wrote the Foreword and Spinner added a chapter on the qualities and power of prayer along with engaging introductions to each of the celebrities.

  

You can find a synopsis of the book, Spinner's biography, and a sample section from the book by going to http://ABookofPrayers.com.  The book can be ordered by the online sources listed or can be ordered at Waldenbooks or Border Books.

—Spinlake Spinner, Submitted April 9, 2008

Ss. Peter and Paul teacher, Ed Geary, is remembered by his nephew 

My uncle, Ed Geary, was a teacher at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic School in Naperville for many years.

  

He and Aunt Pat lived near the heart of downtown Naperville for many years, long before the residential and commercial growth of the last three decades.

  

I grew up in Chicago and rarely saw Uncle Ed and Aunt Pat except on special occasions, but he was one of my favorite relatives because of his genuine warmth and sense of humor.

  

By the mid-1980s I had moved to the western suburbs and was working part-time as the club professional at the Naper Olympic Fitness Center.  For more than 20 years I played there, as well as gave lessons there before its recent closing.

  

Often I would come across members and friends who had been taught by Uncle Ed in grammar school and they all talked very highly about him. Apparently Uncle Ed was an extraordinary educator who was in the business for all the right reasons. He developed a reputation throughout his career for being a memorable, engaging teacher, the kind of teacher you wish taught your own children.

  

One of the last times I visited Uncle Ed he was returning to his modest home near downtown Naperville in an ambulance...as he came out of the ambulance he saw my sillouette and remarked "Looks like a Grigas boy to me..."

   I was in my early 40s and, yes, our family trademark is that all the boys are tall and a bit gifted with a bit of a belly, making us look a bit more like a Manatee than a human. But Uncle Ed knew how to immediately connect with people, and his sense of humor was in full throttle that day.

  

It was a great visit, and when I got up to leave he handed me his card--a simple yellow business card with his name on it, beneath which appeared the simple phrase "Educator".

  

No ostentatious titles, no thermographed text, just a simple phrase that carried more impact than any other "notice me" title.

  

The card still remains tacked onto my office bulletin board as a reminder of how people should be remembered.

  

Yet this story doesn't end there.

  

Shortly after my uncle's death I traveled to Charleston, South Carolina on a family vacation.

  

While there a resident I came across while golfing invited me to the local fitness club, which had racquetball courts and fitness equipment.

  

He also provided me with a coupon for a free week-long membership at this particular club.

  

While signing in, however, the desk attendant told me the coupon was valid only for those who lived in the area, and were candidates to become full-time members.

  

It was a reasonable stipulation...the coupon obviously was meant to attract paying members, not allow the use of the club by people who had no intention of buying a membership.

  

The manager happened to be standing there and politely explained the situation.

  

I was about to comply and pay the daily guest fee when the talk centered on where I was from, and I told him the Naperville area.

  

He said he had grown up there himself.

  

"Where did you attend grade school?," I asked.

  

"Ss. Peter and Paul" was the response.

  

"Did you happen to know my uncle Ed Geary? He was a teacher there," said I.

  

"You are Ed Geary's nephew? He was the best teacher I ever had. I never liked science, but he made you feel so good about learning I actually looked forward to his class every day," the manager said.

  

With that he tore up the guest registration form and told me to come in all week as his own personal guest, all because Ed Geary was an extraordinary man who touched so many lives.

  

A thousand miles away from Naperville he continued to have a positive influence on people.

  

Whenever I reflect on the rapid growth of Naperville and the urban sprawl it has encountered, I go back to my memory of Uncle Ed and the basic goodness of soul, which was embedded in Naperville for so many years.

  

He was truly a great ambassador for Naperville.

—Don Grigas, chief128@comcast.net, Submitted April 4, 2008

Naperville Nostalgia Answer for April 2008 Issue

Jean Tannery is living at the address on the airmail letter (pictured with a card and without a Zip Code). It was sent by her mother. It is a greeting card, inside it's signed "Mommy."

She is a little older now. Did I say little older?

My whole name is Alva Jean Tannery/Chastain.  

My mom's family, back to 1836 I believe, were some of the first settlers in Du Page County.

My dad's family were settlers in Du Page County also.

My mother was born in the stone house now occupied by atty's and an Insur. company on South Washington (use to be River Road)  across from Pioneer park.

I got a few calls telling about the letter appearing in the paper.

—Alva Jean Tannery/Chastain, April 2, 2008

Example of why Christopher Lawson has enjoyed living in Naperville for 26 years

Last fall I purchased a fairly expensive Toro snowblower from Buikema’s Ace Hardware store on Washington Street. Since I have a pretty long driveway, I wanted one with power and electric starter.

I bought that particular model based on the recommendation of the department manager, Larry Hiipakka. It was a good recommendation.

I used the snow blower for those first three snows. No problem. Then, probably because the engine flooded quickly (which apparently is a characteristic of this model)…I ended up burning out the starter.

I took it back to Buikema’s…and they sent it off for repair. Meanwhile…it was starting to snow again. I asked Larry what he intended to do to make sure I was a happy customer…since I bought the Toro, and needed it now. He said he didn’t have any loaners…but he would send someone to clear my driveway.

He did that…twice! Way above and beyond the requirements…but necessary and very appreciated.

That gesture looked like it was about to be for naught when the repair shop called to say that the electric starter was “abused by the owner” (me)…and that there was no warranty coverage.

The starter would cost me $250…about a third of the original cost of this two-month old machine. I insisted that I didn’t do anything but try to start the darned thing; no abuse. But I was just whistling in the wind to the repair guy.

I called Larry. He was getting a bit frustrated with this particular customer (me)…but he remained professional. He recited that he was without the authority to do anything about the cost of repair but he referred me to the store manager…Terry Sharo.

Terry: “How may I help you?”

Me: “I need to have my snowblower back. It’s snowing. It broke and I want it to be repaired.”

Terry: “I want you to be a satisfied customer. The repair is not covered by warranty, so…would it make you happy if I covered the cost myself?”

Me: “Huh??”

This is a great example of how to conduct home town business. “I want you to be a satisfied customer!”  What a concept! Thanks Larry; thanks Terry!

—Christopher Lawson, Sylvan Circle, Submitted April 1, 2008. No joke!

A distinguished military career honored

Former Naperville resident, Col. John R. “Jack” Roche, USAF, Ret., will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA at 11AM, March 24, 2008.

Roche, age 90, a resident of West Palm Beach, FL, died November 4, 2007, at the Good Samaritan Medical Center.

“Jack lived with Bob and me and our girls in a small Shiffler apartment near the train station after he came home from the war,” e-mailed Mae Roche Raymond, Jack’s sister who still lives in Naperville.  “He became one of the first investors in John Case's Pfiester Feeds on Ogden Avenue. He made many friends in Naperville during those years between wars. In his last years with the Air Force he was Commander of Hickam Field in Hawaii.”

Roche was born on March 24, 1917, attended St. Ambrose College, named his bombers after St. Ambrose, and was a real war hero. His correspondence with John O'Donnell was published in the Quad City Times during the war and later resulted in a book called Dear John, which was a collection of wartime letters.

Obituary published in the Palm Beach Post stated: “A veteran of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, Colonel John ‘Packy’ Roche began his military career as a pilot with the Army Air Corp in 1941. He was a pilot with the first squadron of B24s to depart from North America for the European Conflict and later joined the North African campaign with the 8th Air Force, 93rd Bomb Group.

“As an original member of the famed 93rd Bomb Group, Col. Roche survived being shot down twice and was awarded numerous service medals that included 2 Purple Hearts and the Distinguished Service Cross. The Distinguished Service Cross was awarded for the low level bombing run over Ploesti, Romania, arguably the toughest air battle of WWII. Late in the war, he was recruited to work on the highly secretive Manhattan Project.

"In 1946, he participated in the nuclear weapon tests at Bikini Atoll. During his 30-years in the Air Force, he served as a commander of numerous air bases around the world and was assigned to the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force at the Pentagon.”

He retired from his military career in 1970. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patricia M. Roche of West Palm Beach, FL, five children, and numerous members of his extended family.

---Mae Roche Raymond, Naperville, IL, February 18, 2008

About A&W and Dog N' Suds. (And other eateries)

The A & W was located just a few hundred feet east of where the lobby of the Stardust Motel sits. When we moved to Naperville in August of 1963, our house in the Saybrook subdivision was two weeks shy of completion so, we had to room at the "New Era Motel" which later became the Stardust. The former New Era building still stands but, looks like it's used for maintenance and housekeeping storage.

The Naperville A & W was owned by the Kopetkie (SP) family but, closed in the early 1970's. When we were staying at the New Era, I walked over to grab a dog and a root beer on my own which was a big deal to an eleven year old. During our stay, my Grandmother drove us over to the Naper Theater for a matinee showing of the original "Nutty Professor" starring Jerry Lewis. Across the street was the "Intermission Cafe" which is now "Potter's Place".

The "Dog N' Suds came in to being in the mid 1960's and was located on Ogden between Charles and East Avenue. In 1969, I got into CB radio and the prank of the day was to park around the corner and gab on the CB which interfered with the intercom. Your voice could be carried out over their speakers and some of the language "other" CB'ers used wasn't always in good humor. The owner eventually put a filter in the system so, that game ended. Dog N' Suds at that location went belly up in the early 1980's.

The "Earl Of Sandwich" was located across from the Wheel O' Meal at Columbia and Ogden. It was the predecessor of Subway and Quizno's. There, I really got my first taste of hero and Italian sub sandwiches. It was only in business for a few years in the mid  60's-early 70's and I believe some  clinic type offices reside on that site today.

The original Naperville Dairy Queen was on Ogden across from where Jiffy Lube sits at Wisconsin Ave. It moved to Washington and Ogden about 1972 or so. At the original site, they ran a little nine hole mini golf coarse on the side. I believe DQ was run by the Barry family. Mr. & Mrs. Barry were very nice people and treated their customers like family.

"Parkview Pizza" was originally at the corner of  Center Street and North Ave across from Burlington Park. hence, "park view"... get it? In about 1968 or 69, Jim Ruzika (SP) moved the business to Ogden Ave where George's Place now occupies. Here, Jim was able to expand his seating and entertainment venues which included a beer garden. Eventually, there was a Parkview in Aurora, Lombard and Downers Grove in addition to the flagship Naperville location. Sometime in the late 1970's business went South for Jim and eventually all the Parkview locations closed with the Naperville store being the last to fold. It became "Oodles" for maybe a decade and after a number of transitions became the "George's Place" it is today. (I delivered pizza's for Parkview for a year when I was in High school.)

Footnote to Parkview.... Jim opened up a Fondue Stube in the front part of the building and later another location in Chicago on Peterson Ave. The Fondue Stube assumably under another owner still stands in Chicago. Click here: Fondue Stube 773-784-2200 | Fondue Restaurant in Chicago

Andy's Popcorn. Ah yes... probably mentioned elsewhere in Positively Naperville but, fresh in my mind today. Andy's was located in the old Miller Stone works approximately where the downtown Giordano's  stands today. Andy Stoos would crank out bushels of popcorn during the day and early evenings and that's all he did. When the weather was right (humidity factor figured in here) he would make his global class caramel corn. Many an afternoon my friends and I would bike over to Andy's for a fresh bag of popcorn and a soda from  the vending machine at Buzz Nelson's Pure station on Washington Street.  I remember once I led a group of new friends over to Andy's and when we ordered our bags of popcorn, he said "I'm not giving you any of this popcorn" pointing to the bin. Instead, he popped a fresh batch right before our little eyes and said.. "This is what you came here for"!. Of course melted  butter was available not that butter flavored caraway oil! The building that Andy's occupied now sits at the Naper Settlement as the original stone cutters shop. I'll bet you couldn't find a kernel of popcorn in that structure if you took the whole place apart.

Steak And Shake.... Yup, originally at the corner of Iroquois and Ogden where the  liquor store now stands. S & S tried to punch a hole in Mc Donald's, Wendy's and McDonalds market but, not with much success. They were there from 1978 - maybe 1981 at best. Now, there are at least three Steak And Shake's within a few  minutes of Downtown Naperville.

Over in the Iroquois Mall, the former downtown Naperville "Tongs Garden Restaurant" is located. Before moving there many years ago, it was located at the site now occupied by Barnes & Noble at Chicago and Washington..

Fast food in Naperville was dominated by Prince Castle / Cock Robin until Burger King and Mc Donald's rolled into  town in the mid 1960's. One interesting operation which I think only lasted a summer was called the "Shanty" which was a hot dog stand - ice cream type business in a trailer parked in the street across from the old Nichols Library. I think it caused some problems with traffic and other business complained about the location and tacky look. If my memory serves me right, the entrepreneur was trying to mimic the original Portillo's over in Villa Park which was also run out of a trailer at a shopping center. This would have been somewhere between 1964-65.

Other quick-serve dining options in Naperville were the lunch counters at Woolworth's, Naperville Drug (Jefferies) or W. T. Grant at Naper Plaza. Kmart and it's luncheonette didn't come around until 1973. The lunch counter at Oswald's was removed in 1955... eight years before my arrival in Naperville.

My 45-year relationship with Naperville is likely to be traded for a new home in Michigan by the end of the decade, so I better pass my memories on to those who indulge themselves in local history before I succumb to senior citizen memory loss. Maybe the next entry will be hardware stores.

Cow Tunnel Note: Yes.. There was "hanky panky" going around there, but you didn't hear it from me!

---Paul Mejia, 1163 Oakton Lane, Naperville, IL 605450-0309, Submitted Feb. 4, 2008

February Naperville Nostalgia Photo Identification

Angelina "Angie" Akulow, a business education teacher at Naperville North High School for 12 years (1970-82), correctly identified the photo that appeared in the of the February issue of Positively Naperville. Akulow, who taught with the first group of teachers when the school first opened to all freshman in 1970, noted NNHS Principal Coleman (front row, far left, white jacket) and many teachers and staff on "Grub Day" in 1974.

"Grub Day was a day of levity so we could relate to the freshmen students. ...North was all freshmen when it first opened," said the 39-year Naperville resident who came here from southern Illinois when the city had a population of 21,000.

"The picture brought back lots of memories," said Akulow. "I'd guess that Anne Lord is the one who saved the picture for 30 years."

Akulow is the pictured on the left end of either the third row from the top or the bottom.

"Anne is pictured in the front row center between the teacher in the WIU t-shirt and Wes Spencer," she said.

Akulow also remembers that while teaching she wore a Mickey Mouse watch that she'd had since childhood.  "The students were always surprised I wore a Mickey Mouse watch," she recalled.

Today, Akulow keeps busy attending Municipal Band concerts, plays, movies, yard work, attending mass every day and volunteering at her church.

45-year Naperville newcomer wants answers!

As a newcomer, 45 years here since birth, so much of the older things are just at the edge of my memory. I could write all day but instead I'll just ask a question and mention a few things not mentioned.    

Someone mentioned A&W Root beer.

I thought it was a Dog 'n Suds and remember it was East of the Animal Hospital (my dad used to joke about that). Which one was it?

No one mentioned the outdoor roller rink West of the Swap Shop, Bart's Hobby shop in Naper Plaza, the old pop machine that dropped the cup at Naper Theater, listening to the Civil Defense group during the 71(?) flood on my walkie talkie and all the debris piled up in a huge mound near Sportsman Park the next day, Tasty Bakery was good but Lora Mae's donuts were better, even though the place was smoke filled.

There were snowball fights in summer when Cock Robin defrosted their freezer, watching the houses moved to the Settlement, the sprays coming out of the beach bathhouse, the "bubblers" at the beach, YMCA Day Camp at McDowell Woods, Park District summer program at Elmwood School.

The Hippies on the bridge? I too wish I had a picture of Wheel o Meal. My mom said the only person that she saw win a free meal (next visit) was a relative with out of state plates. My brother worked as a bus boy at Golden Bear where Pizza Hut is now at Odgen Mall.

Does anyone else remember a short lived Steak n Shake at corner of Ogden and Iriquois where the liquor store is now?    

I, too, de-tasseled corn, but they bused us South. We'd show up in the morning with a container frozen solid and by lunch you'd have water. My friend's crew got left in a field on his birthday once. I'm starting to write down complete stories from events and adventures from my youth. I guess I'll see if the Settlement wants them. Growing up here in the 60's and 70's was amazing.

I will always love this town because of such a great childhood here.

---Daniel Bulley, dbulley@wideopenwest.com

The former Burgess Standard Station on S. Washington St., across Jackson St. from Beidelman Furniture, was the site of Phillip Beckman's Harness Shop long before it was a gasoline station.  Philip Beckman was my Great-Grandfather.

  

I live in Monticello WI, which no-one has ever heard of, but it is 5 miles south of New Glarus, which is much better known.

  

I grew up on my father's farm, on the Will county side of 87th St.  When I was a child our house was about 4 miles from the south city limits, which I think were along the south edge of the Naperville Cemetery.  I am amazed and amused by how the south city limits boundary has passed our farm by and has gone down to meet Plainfield.

  

I just spent Thanksgiving with my sister in Naperville.  Such a big town!  Wow.

---Margaret Walsh

Memories of a little act of kindness

I need the citizens of Naperville and the business owners of Naperville and as far as I am concerned the surrounding communities to know what happened to me and my son last Friday evening.

     

My son, Jared D. Lydon, a 2002 graduate of Neuqua Valley High School, was coming home on a 10 day leave from the United States Air Force.  He and his girlfriend Meagan Drexler also serving in the USAF were due in at Midway Airport at 5:15PM.

     

To back up in my story, a few months ago at Cantigny Park, Operation Support Our Troops hosted Gary Sinese and the Lt. Dan Band in a benefit concert to raise money for the Troops. I met a man who rode in the "PATRIOT GUARD".  He told me of the support they give to military members to welcome them home or on a much sadder note, escort the casket of a fallen hero.

I checked out the website www.patriotguard.org and humbly asked if someone from the Patriot Guard could meet my son and his girlfriend at the airport to help me welcome them home.  I also called the Mayor of Naperville, George Pradel.

Why would I, being no one important or even a resident of Naperville anymore call the Mayor?  Because since I have been back in Naperville doing business at Saturn of Naperville as their Public Relations & Business Development Mgr. I have had the pleasure to meet and speak with the Mayor on many occasions.  Yes, some of those were business related events, but most have been involving in "giving back" events.  Such as Parkinsons Disease Walk, MS Walk, NCO fundraiser, Rotary fundraisers, etc.  I also know he himself is a Marine Veteran.  He has always been so supportive of anything to do with the Vets I thought he might like to know of the Patriot Guards escort for my son.  He immediately told me to call 2 men he knows from the American Legion and VFW.  He then gave me Police Chief Dials phone number and told to contact him as his wife worked within the Neuqua Valley High School Administration.  Within minutes of my leaving messages with these men I received return phone calls telling me they would also like to show their support and help in the welcoming home of my son.

So now that I have you up to date on the background of last friday, let me continue.  I-55 was a parking lot last friday night at 5:30PM.  The Patriot Guard had set up at the Cracker Barrel on Weber Rd. and I-55 at 5PM to be prepared to meet us when we pulled in the parking lot.  I didn't tell my son about the surprise "escort" back to our home in Oswego.  With the traffic being horrible on I-55 I took all side roads thru all the towns from Midway back to the Cracker Barrel.  Needless to say we didn't arrive til almost 7pm. That meant that the Patriot Guard Riders, the Naperville Police Dpt., the    Romeoville Fire Dpt., the Bolingbrook Police Dpt, the Oswego Police Dpt., family, friends and oh ya, my friend MAYOR GEORGE PRADEL, had been waiting out in the cold in that parking lot for almost 2 hours to welcome my son home!

      

Imagine my son's surprise and the honor we all felt for all these "strangers" waiting out in the cold, to welcome him and Meagan home.  About 40 Patriot Guard Riders and others had a archway filled with American Flags and Patriot Guard Flags saluting to him, calling out to them "thank you for serving our country", "God bless you", "welcome home", as we drove thru the welcoming line of supporters. Then we got out of the car and each and every person there shook my sons hand, some gave him a big hug and again expressed their thanks for his service to his country.

      

There are a lot of proud moments in a mothers life.  This is by far one of the proudest.  None of these people had even met me or my son before this day, only Mayor George and my son has never had the pleasure of meeting the Mayor.

      

I ask you, what Mayor of a big city like Naperville, waits out in the cold for 2 hours to shake hands with a stranger who isn't even a resident of his city anymore?  I can't tell you what that meant to me.  Not only did he wait the 2 hours he then also joined in the escort back to my home in Oswego. Remember, it was dark then, no one could see it was the Mayor in that darkness.  He gave up his entire friday evening to show my son he matters and his service to his country is valued.

      

This night is the something I thought you needed to know!  Good news!  Great proud moments,

not just for me and my son, but for all the residents of Naperville and community leaders as well.

      

Thank you!

---Carla "CJ" Lydon, Former 15-year-old resident of Naperville

Posted November 2007

October 2007 Naperville Nostalgia:  Loved the Naperville Nostalgia!!!  That picutre is of the very beginnings of Kidz Kabaret - that wonderful youth theatre troupe that is taking Naperville by a

storm (and growing in leaps and bounds!). And, of course, Crossroads is where the now Comedy Shrine exists!!  So fun to see the old photos!

---Lynn Hodak

Click here for Naperville Nostalgia Continued

Cock Robin Memories!

1.  Please type in your memories.

Congrats on going online with your issues in Sept. 2007.  And already a response from overseas. Wow!

  

As I've told you before, six years ago we were watching the parade when someone came around handing out this flyer. I looked at it and thought, "This will never fly."  And now look at you.

  

No wonder when I suggested this, you didn't want to print the recipes online for people.  You already were planning this and the entire paper is now online. 

  

I suppose you feel as if you have given birth - again! 

  

You are to be commended not only for the paper, but for the caliber of the content.

—Bev Patterson Frier

Submitted Sept. 3, 2007

NAPERVILLE POETRY

Last night our adult Sunday school class went to St. Mark's Cathedral in Seattle for a very interesting service. It is called Compline and is the last service of the day in the Episcopal church. It is a simple service of Scripture readings and a cappella chanting from the ancient prayer book. As I walked through the stone cathedral, I saw a corner where candles were burning and a sign that invited us to pray for peace. I then noticed a thick book on a stand. It was called a BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE. As I looked more closely, I saw that it was an place where people had written prayers for families impacted by the Iraq war. I felt inclined to write in the book about Jack Hennessy who died in October 2004 while serving his Uncle Sam in Iraq.

Here is a copy of what I wrote.

Jack Hennessy of Naperville

died in the war. But he lives still

because of faith in One who died

upon a bloodied cross.

The Prince of Peace was victimized

by those who failed to see the prize

His sacrifice would offer all

who could not save themselves.

And so the One who makes for peace

still bleeds because our wars don't cease.

His wounds cry out from outstretched arms

as is to say, "Enough!"

by Greg Asimakoupoulos

Submitted on April 5, 2008

2.  Please include name, phone number and email address.  Thanks

Photo submitted by Marj Hornback / July 2008 Naperville Nostalgia

The Matter Realty Team / 1949 YMCA Mens City Basketball  League / Front row: Ian Dornberg, Herb Matter and Don Heun / Back row: Wilbert Hageman, Don Darfler and Ed Kieserg

Click here for

highlights of the first 23

Exchange Club Ribfests

Naperville celebrates 20 years of Historic Preservation with Mayor's Proclamation

WHEREAS, historic preservation is an effective tool for managing growth, revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride and maintaining community character while enhancing livability; and

WHEREAS, in 1986, the Naperville, Illinois City Council designated a specific neighborhood to be its Historic District as special and unique;  to be set apart from every other; to attract tourists, contribute to the area’s stability and livability, and give residents a sense of connection with their shared heritage; and

WHEREAS, it is important to celebrate the role of history in our lives and the contributions made by dedicated individuals such as those here today in helping to preserve the tangible aspects of the heritage that has shaped us as a community; and

WHEREAS, “Sustain America–Vision, Economics and Preservation” is the theme for National Preservation Month 2006, co-sponsored by the Naperville Historic District, a neighborhood of the East Central Homeowners Organization, known as ECHO; North Central College and the National Trust for Historic Preservation; and

WHEREAS, Historic Preservation Month 2006 is an occasion for celebrating the historic resources within the community and increasing public awareness of the importance of historic preservation so that special resources can be preserved to pass onto future generations;

NOW, Therefore, the National Trust for Historic Preservation does honor the City of Naperville for designating a specific portion of its community as an Historic District, and thanks the people of Naperville for joining their fellow citizens across the United States in recognizing and participating in Preservation Month.

Signed, sealed and delivered on May 13, 2006, to the Naperville Mayor

George Pradel.

Ron Keller Remembers Memorial Day Parades

I marched my first Memorial Day Parade in 1945!  In those days, each class marched with their teacher to the cemetery. I carried a bouquet of lilacs and when we reached Naperville Cemetery, my mother met me and led me to my great-grandfather's grave. Samuel Weinhold fought for the GAR (Grand Army of the Republic) in the Civil War. When I laid them on the grave, I was hot and tired and told my mother I didn't want to do this again, to which she replied, "Yes, you will!"

   Well, I did every year until I got in the band then carried a sousaphone instead of flowers. So this will be my 62nd Memorial Day Parade! 

   What a shame the grade school bands are no longer marching!  I have a picture of the combined Ellsworth and Naper School bands standing on the steps of Pfeiffer Hall on Memorial Day on May 30, 1929! They look so proud. They started a tradition that ends this year.  Such a loss for Naperville. 

—Ron Keller, Director of the Naperville Municipal Band (Submitted May 16, 2006)

Submitted by Bob Decker May 18, 2006 

There was a famous story in my family dating back to September 1956 when my then-12-year-old cousin recommended to the guests at my sister's wedding Encaudo's Restaurant on Ogden Avenue . . . The same cousin, who had moved from Wheaton to Goose Pimple Heights that same year, also famously commented that the Naperville phone system was much more modern than Wheaton's -- instead of having to dial the number yourself, you merely spoke it to the operator who said "Number please?"

And I remember taking lunch with my mother circa 1967 in a charming little tea room located next to the lumber store hard by the south side of the Burlington tracks. Everything in there was olive green and they had a gift shop upstairs. . . . .

I remember when Paperback Paradise opened up directly over Oswald's Pharmacy, circa 1968. They later reopened as Paradise Bookstore in part of the space vacated by Woolworth's . . .

On Sundays I went to the Sunday School of the Christian Science Society which met in the gymnasium of the YMCA . . . I often sat in Nichols Library leafing through their bound volumes of Life Magazine from the 1940s while my parents attended the Wednesday night services, which were held in a meeting room upstairs.

In the building directly south of Nichols Library was Mrs. Harr's duplicating service. This is where I saw my first Xerox machine in the late 1960s, although it seems the bulk of the work was still done using dittomasters. Before that, there was a little gift shop in the ground floor of that building, where my mother purchased a Crown Staffordshire "Hunting Scene" coffee pot and tea pot.

Probably my favorite place in town, circa 1967 or 1968, was the Swap Shop on the corner of Ogden and Columbia, opposite the Wheel-O-Meal. It was run by Mrs. Haight, and I would go there to buy 78 rpm records and Edison cylinders. I wish my mother had bought an air-raid siren that Mrs. Haight once demonstrated for us.

Around 1970, across the street from the former Wheel O Meal, the Earl of Sandwich opened in what might have previously been a dentist's office. They introduced to Naperville the submarine sandwich; my favorite was the Italian sausage with pizza sauce and melted cheese. . . .

The first Mexican restaurant was Pancho's Villa, which appeared around 1969 further down Ogden Avneue. Of course, by my time, the Spanish Tea Room, where people went in the 1930s, was long gone; if I recall what I was told correctly, it was in the same building later occupied (beginning in 1967) by Washington Square.

--- Bob Decker, resident of Naperville from 1959 through 1985, now a resident of San Francisco.  

I moved to Naperville in 1983 when at the corner of 75th and Naper Boulevard, where the Dominick's Store now stands, there was a horse exercise area. Across the road the McDonald's was already standing. In the drive-thru, a man on horse back was going through the drive-thru placing his order for food. That is something we will never see again!

---Ute Yi, May 9, 2006    

My name is Kathy Potts (nee Neff).  I grew up in the 500 block of N. Ellsworth.

   I can remember Riedy's Dime Store at the corner where Dean's Mens store is - all the good penny candy and the smell of those slanted floors…

   Brummel's Car Dealership that was at Main and Riverwalk... 

   The Bowling Alley and Chinese take out, currently Barnes and Noble...

   The Midway, my father used to tell me of that and I can remember the swinging doors on the front, it changed at some point to Washington Square which is no longer there... 

   Sitting in the dentist chair (Dr. Esser) which was on the second floor above Sears which was just north of Washington Square watching pigeons across the street...

   Thinking Soukups Hardware had just about everything you needed (corner of Jefferson and Washington)…

   Dr. Kunsch's office (the smell of his cigars lingered in the air always) he always had a nickel size Hershey bar for you... 

   Kreger's home made popsicles and Grandpa Kreger sitting out front with his schnauzers... 

   I can remember when the TB sanitorium (aka Edwards Hospital) was torn down.  That was in the day when they were in the country… 

   Moser Highlands was this new subdivision off of Gartner…

   Ice skating next to Centennial Beach where they would fill up two spaces, one was for 'beginners'.  Then there was the warming house with yummy snacks.  If I was lucky I would take a little skate down the river.  If only my parents knew about that!...

   There was this little shop called Al's next to SSPP where we could go into the fridge and get our milk for after mass and he would have fresh baked goodies…

   Sledding down the hill in the winter at Jefferson Middle School… 

   Parkview Pizza on Center Street was about the only pizza place in the 1960s... 

   Chobar's at the corner of Rt 59 and New York Street which is now Fox Valley - all nite type of greasy spoon... 

   When Burger King opened up - wow - what a cool thing that was!...

   The triple square scoop sherbert cones at Cock Robin that cost 14 cents…

   The 'antique' shop at the corner of Columbia and Ogden Avenue which is KFC now.  Sold my bike there!  Was I in trouble!...

   Had my wedding reception at the "Moose" - now it is Lil Deb N Herr…

   I was one of those kids that used to get up at an Ungodly hour during the summer to detassle corn and we always ended up walking the fields because the machines were not working.  The Aurora crew always got the machines…

   The farmers coming to the grainery at the end of the summer to empty their loads - don't exactly remember what they did - just remember all the pigeons and Becker's Coal bins that used to be behind there which is now the parking lot for the Metra…

   Getting upholstery samples from the loading docks at Kroehler's thinking I was gonna make some beautiful furniture…

   Dr. Wolf's office aka emergency room in his house…

   The entry to SSPP cemetery used to be at the corner not on the side.  That huge crucifix used to be in the center which is now the old part…

   Jan's Gift Shop was a cornucopia of odds and ends to me…

   Andy Stoos' popcorn stand - we would walk there in the summertime to get a little white bag of popcorn. He was always such a nice man and I believe his house was right next to it on the corner of Main and Van Buren… 

   Netzleys' Chrysler dealership/  Seemed so big then sitting on the corner across from the Lantern on Washington Street…

   Let's not forget A & P and National Food Store on Main Street - between Jefferson and Jackson…

   Getting a pass at the Beach was $1.00 for the summer…

Parkside Tavern by the Train Station used to have a certain patron that walked there on Friday night and would always fall asleep in my dad's backyard on a lounge chair. Sometimes I would find money on Saturday morning…

   Collecting railroad spikes and bringing them home just to do it…

   Collecting pop bottles and taking them to Kreger's for the 2 cent deposit…

   I could go on and on but I don't want to bore anyone with all this nostalgia. 

---Submitted April 26, 2006

Former resident of Cress Creek discovers Naperville Nostalgia during Internet search

As often happens, we receive some of the most wonderful correspondence via the PN Web site.  Folks love the Nostalgia section.  Recently, Don Johnson, NCHS Class of 1963, sent the following correspondence. Along with PN, Naperville native and local historian Steve Hyett answered several of Johnson's inquiries.

Posted March 13, 2006

1. The name Barbara Hogan Hile shocked me (under Naperville Nostalgia). I am wondering her relation to Carole Hogan '63 NCHS who was a very special person in my life.

---Don Johnson, yooper49930@charter.net

PN REPLY:  Thanks for visiting Naperville Nostalgia on the Positively Naperville Web site. Where do you live in Michigan?

We're happy to post your information, e-mail address and phone on the Nostalgia page.  We'll also post your inquiry on Greetings from our Readers in the next issue of our monthly publication.  Many people have made Naperville connections via our Web site.  That's been one of the exciting things about this little home-grown business.

2. I live in Hancock, in the Upper Peninsula, so I am a Yooper. In fact, I publish a monthly regional newspaper called the Yooper Spectator. My high school classmate Jay Martineau lives here also.

I thought the Web site was cool. I found it because I searched “Wheel-O-Meal” because I’m going to do some nostalgia for next month’s paper on fast food.

Now I think right next to the river was a Burger Queen. Is that possible?

I worked at the Sweden House, and I saw it is no longer there.

I’m wondering if they have the summer band concerts yet.

Carole Hogan was a classmate, NCHS ’63. She was a lovely person who died at a young age. I remember her eyes… she was blessed with beautiful eyes. She was such a nice person with a wonderful personality. I’ve always been sad she died young.

We lived on Tulip Lane and later Royale St. George at Cress Creek.

---Don Johnson, yooper49930@charter.net

PN REPLY:  Thanks. What's your address?  We'll put you on the Positively Naperville mailing list.  You can see how your city has changed. We'll post your notes on our Nostalgia section.

3. You mean you print a hard copy?  There were 2 weeklies in Naperville.  The Sun and The Clarion. Both still there or did the dailies take over? I noticed Dean’s is still there! Used to buy everything there! I knew Dean, is he still alive?

---Don Johnson, yooper49930@charter.net

PN REPLY: Yep. At the beginning of every month a 28-page Positively Naperville previews happenings of all the good stuff in our town of 140,000.

Dean is still living in Naperville. Dean's Clothing Store is for both men and women, now run by his son, Greg DeGeeter.  Al DeGeeter, Dean's brother, still works there, too.  Dean's is one of PN's sponsors.  Nice people.

The Sun is now a six-times a week paper.  The Clarion is way gone. The Daily Herald and the Chicago Tribune are the other two dailies that compete for readers.  It's really a challenge to keep everyone on the same page.

4. 140,000! I live in a town of ruffly 5,000, about like Naperville when I moved there! Course that was 1959! My mom eventually sold real estate for Baird & Warner, and kept selling the same properties over and over as people got transferred in and out! She sold 1,000,000+ when it meant something! Jim Rickert comes up to visit Jay, and I’ve seen him up here. I’ll send you a paper back.

I knew Lana Beidelman of the furniture store cause she was in our class. I know a bunch from our class who never left town. When I was about 12 and lived in Westchester we came ‘west’ to swim at the pool. When I later lived there we played pier tag and I’m sure they still do!

I’m a rather rare case… I was recently diagnosed with MS, at 60 years of age! It changes a person. You see things differently. We live in big snow country…. 300” a year. I have a handicapped parking sticker. I got a cell phone because if I slip and fall on ice I can dial 911.

My paper covers a huge area… I drive 300 miles to deliver it. But I do just 5,000 papers! You’re doing your paper like I do, with a home computer! Our whole county has 35,000 people and it hasn’t changed in 35 years but there’s more cars and a Wal-Mart super center! And our little swimmin’ hole of Lake Superior is a bit bigger than yours! Hehe! Colder too!

We have 2 stop lights now, used to have none.

Sport Bowl still there? I learned to play pool there. Wound up playing a world champion in an exhibition at Northern Illinois Univ.

The former East Aurora basketball coach Ernie Kivisto is from this area. So is Cub bench coach Dick Pole. There was a baseball pitcher I saw at old Comiskey Park from this area and I just did a story on him.

Ship me a couple of your papers soon and I’ll send you a few of mine. I do 24 pages now, but I’m going to have to make it larger soon. I’m wondering how I’m going to haul more weight cause I deliver from my car! Here I am limping around with MS delivering my own papers at 60 years old! Hehe! I just started this a year ago. I write some stories as Willie Loman… name mean anything to you>??

When we had our reunion our book said “Redskins Forever” on the cover!

You’re a young kid I know. After 35 years up here I know a lot of people, it’s different from your small city. I do some nostalgia articles. I take some pix of fish caught and deer shot. In June we’ll we a walleye pro fishing thing up here for the 3rd time… In Fisherman tour if you know what that is. It’s a national pro fishing thing.

When we built on Tulip Lane in 1959 there was a farm across the street! Little different now, isn’t it?

Well, it’s Sunday night now. Since I’ve never owned a TV, I’m gonna go visit some friends. We actually talk and visit. Little different, isn’t it??? Yeah, none of my friends have TV either. Hard to believe, isn’t it? Can you even imagine it?

DJ…   or maybe it’s Willie! 

PN REPLY: Steve Hyett is someone we usually consult for answers to local history!  As a Naperville native, he's collected thousands of postcards and stories over the years.  He's a year or two your junior.

I sent Steve your e-mails and here are his replies. With Steve's help, I'm sure we'll help you make those connections!

Keep in touch. And thanks for sharing your Naperville story.  It's Naperville's 175th birthday this year and your timing is great.

Steve Hyett's Reply...

Wheel-O-Meal was a fast food restaurant on the northwest corner of Ogden & Columbia, where the coin carwash is now.  When you bought something, (I'm a little fuzzy on the mechanics/specifics) a series of lights would flash around a wheel (remember Beat the Clock with Bud Collyer?), and if the number on the cash register receipt equalled the number on the wheel, you won something.  Can't remember if it was the meal, a sandwich or fries or what.  I think it was run by the Hageman's from the farm on Plank Rd across from (Camp) Seager Park.  That would have been, I think, a brother of Wilbert Hageman.  Fuzzy brain, not sure of specifics, or if any of this is right.  But I think it goes in this general direction.  Might be nice if you could get someone to come up with a picture of the place and run requests for recollections.  I don't have a picture of the "Wheel."  Never saw it on a postcard, either.

Sweden House was a great smorgasbord.  There is a postcard in the collection from that.  Northeast corner of Washington and Ogden.  Same building.  Now it's the john greene Realtor office and MidAmerica Bank.

Lana Biedelman's sister is Cassie (Biedelman) Kunsch.  Cassie & John run the funeral home next to the Burger King on the river.  Lana runs the furniture store downtown. Both girls were daughters of Owen "Dutch" Biedelman, former councilman, who for years ran the furniture store (caskets), the funeral home and the only ambulance service in town.  Before the city had its own.

I know I have a "Redskins" yearbook packed away.  If you want, I can dig it out, so you can see pix of these folks.

 

My first name is Rose Ann Landorf, actually it is my first and middle but I've always been called by both.   It is amazing how people "remember" differently.   A bunch of us older residents had an active e-mail "conversation" about a month ago regarding Naperville trivia. It is interesting how the mind recollects.

I read the Nostalgia page.  Some of it is the information which sparked our Older timers "conversations" last month.

It was the consensus there are some errors.  

Dick Kuhn: Broeker's was on Jefferson Ave, just to the west of the alley between Washington and Main.  Part of Broeker's is now Front Street Cantina.  RoseLand was previously a hardware store, Soukup's.  There were toys in the basement there also.

Spinner: Ace was never on the corner in the down town. It was on Chicago Ave., mid block between Washington and Main.

Prior to being an Ace Hardware, it was Rassweiler's Hardware (spelling questionable).

The name of the restaurant was Chobar's.  It was originally next to a Standard station on the NW corner of  Routes 65 and 34 (Aurora Ave and Ogden Ave).  They then moved next to another service station on the SW corner of  Rts 65 and 59, currently the east parking lot of Kohl's.

Do the Hile's know what predated the Sweden House?  It was Blythe's greenhouse and some remember an asparagus field there, and possibly a bank (I don't).

I hate to question Lou's (Lou Drendel) facts but:

Unless "someone" moved the Red Top Tavern, it sat on the southwest corner of  Main and Jefferson.

The Police station was always next to the fire station in downtown Naperville.  First on the south side of Jefferson and then on the north side. 

Porter Ave as the southern most street?  Not in the last 65 years.

Ogden Ave as the most northern street?  What about the houses in Goosepimple Heights?  Surely there were streets there running east and west within the last 65 years. Anyone have a map from that time?

I've been a Naperville resident since I came home from the Aurora hospital in 1938. No hospital in Naperville then.  Just a TB sanitarium "way out in the country".

Feel free to add the info to the Nostalgia page.

---Rose Ann Landorf

The Red Top Tavern was on the Southeast corner of Main

& Jefferson.

Kenny Clark's was on the Northwest corner, and they

served the best hamburgers long before Fiddler! (Even

when you were underage, you could go in the back room

and order a burger and a coke.)

The police station was on Jefferson, across from the

fire station (Where Malnati's is now.)

West Street was the westernmost N/S street.

Huffman Street was the easternmost NS street.

Porter was the southern border.

Ogden Avenue was the northern border.

My Maternal Grandparents owned Wilson's Restaurant on

Ogden & Loomis. (Next to the DX Station)

My Paternal Grandfather operated Enck & Drendel Coal

Company on the northeast corner of Jackson & Webster.

The three drugstores in downtown Naperville were

Fouceks, Walgreens, and Oswalds.

Naperville High School was on the southwest corner of

Washington & Spring.

There were no "Junior High Schools" or "Middle

Schools."

There were two Asparagus farms in Naperville.

Air Conditioning? Only in the movies!

There was no auto bridge over the DuPage at Eagle

Street, but there was a ford, and you could (and we

did) wash cars in the river!

No interstate highway system existed.

Midway Airport was the only airline hub in Chicagoland.

...And, the year was?

--- Lou Drendel

P. S. The year is 1948, but Drendel says there was one notable error. The Northern boundary extended beyond Ogden Avenue, West of Washington Street…..an area known by locals of the time as “Goose Pimple Heights.”

The recent past also brings back poignant memories of community pride and service for the United Way. 

Pictured here in 2001 at the corner of Jefferson and Washington streets are MIKE SKARR and DICK KUHN, co-chairman of the Naperville United Way Campaign "Reaching New Heights." Back then, the United Way launched its first outdoor art display to raise funds and awareness for the organization that supports 25 different human care agencies. The first event featured colorful sculptures of baby giraffes.

In 2002, fancies turned to carousel horses. In 2003, mama, papa and baby bears were pretty sights around town.  In 2004, many barnyard friends brought squeals from delighted children and cash from kids-at-heart with big hearts.

Many students who attend Creative Nursery School greet one of those giraffes every day where they have many opportunities to learn about giving and helping others.

Other whimsical animals purchased during the annual auction in September have found homes around town---look for the one in the gazebo along W. Jefferson Avenue--- to remind residents of the United Way 365 days a year.

The current United Way campaign has a goal to reach $1 million dollars, up from recent years because needs continue to grow as the community grows.  The sign on the lawn at US Bank tallies funds as they are received.

To find out how the United Way impacts the community or to make a gift, visit www.napervilleunitedway.org or call 369-2508.

From Ron Keller

Ron Keller remembers...

...when the population sign read "Welcome to Naperville population  4,790" on the Washington St. viaduct as you were going South under the tracks. The freight office of the Burlington sat on the north side of the tracks west of

Boecker's Coal and Grain elevator.

...the Jefferson Ice truck delivering block ice to people who had ice boxes instead of refrigerators. Tractors pulling wagons of beans and corn would come down

Ellsworth St. headed for Boecker's to sell for market. Railroad tracks running down the middle of Ewing St. all the way to Jackson Ave., then east to just past Webster. (about where Egg Harbor is now.)

...when Kroehler Manufacturing was on strike in the late 40's and his dad went to work for the Burlington.

...when you could watch a Wednesday matinee at Naper Theatre for 15 cents then go to Ossies (Oswalds) or Benedetti's (Candy Kitchen) for a 10 cent malt.

Kreger's made their own ice cream and a double dip chocolate cone was 7 cents!

...when Naperville had only two stop lights. One at Ogden and Washington, or "up at the highway," as his dad put it, and Jefferson and Washington. 

...when there were five policemen and mainly an all-volunteer fire department.

...when the fire siren on top of the old fire/police station would blow at 6PM every night. Also, one siren was a small fire, like a grass or leaf fire, two sirens was a bigger more serious fire, three was a major fire and four was Kroehler.

...when the band concerts on Thursday nights started at 8:15 and ran well past 10PM. Central Park had many large elm trees and was beautiful.

Lucky 13 from Dick Kuhn

I remember...

1. Trick or treating at the downtown businesses...My favorite was Ernie's 66 [and you too Buzzie Nelson!] where the Century 21 team is presently

2.  Visiting with Andy of Andy's popcorn in the tiny shack of his sitting next to the pot belly stove after a Redskins game on a cold friday night and getting free samples of the carmel corn.

3. Visiting "uncle" Johnny at Johnny's grocery store after school....where the post office parking lot is presently--- again for a free piece of candy.

4. Riding horses down Hobson Road hooking up with neighbors on horseback and thereafter heading in a herd down Washington street to the annual Naperville saddle club horse show, held where the Naperville Central tennis courts are

presently.

5. The organist in the window of the Midway Lounge at the present site of the Washington Square Restaurant.

6. The cashier at the Intermission Restaurant between movies..who looked like Bennie Hill's side kick...and was always asleep with a slight drool while

manning the cash register!  It's now Potters Place.

7. The toy department in the basement of Broeker's was the absolute best place to spend time. It's now Roseland Draperies.

8. Ju-ju bean wars on Friday nights at the Naperville Theatre

9.  Holding hands (with girls) at the Naperville Theatre

10. Getting in trouble at the Naperville Theatre!

11. Jimmie Fiddler hamburgers at the NW corner of Main & Jefferson.

12.  Playing hide & seek in the downtown Naperville alleys on a Friday night...after being thrown out from the Naperville Theatre....JUST KIDDING!!!!!

13.  On a more serious note, thanking people like the Kreger family who still operate the wonderful little grocery store just north of the Kroeler Furniture Factory at 5th Ave station for allowing farmers like us until harvest time to pay for the years' grocery bill....My father also tells of the generous

Naperville merchants like the Rubins [Al & Norman's folks] doing the same for my grandparents so that the farm children and others in need could have clothes during the Great Depression....In return, the farmers brought generous supplies of eggs, meat & fresh vegetables for the soup line in

Naperville.....

What a remarkable atmoshere in which to have been raised!....It's through the vision in creating POSITIVELY NAPERVILLE that our small town atmosphere and attitude is being and must be preserved...despite its

upscale growth......—Dick Kuhn

From Barbara Hogan Hile and Steve Hile-

Forty-six-year resident Barbara Hogan Hile and her husband Steve Hile

remember...

*After the holidays, Christmas trees were taken to North Central College for a huge bon fire and everyone came to watch.

*Wheel-O-Meal, a hamburger drive-in with car hops, used to be on the corner of Columbia and Ogden. When they rang up your order, a wheel of lights went

around and you could win a hamburger or a drink!

*Sweden House Smorgasbord Restaurant was at the corner of Washington and Ogden where john greene Realtor and Mid-America Bank are now. Folks used to line up around the building on Mother's Day.

*Grants Dime Store was at Naper Plaza.

*Montgomery Ward Catalog in the Naper Plaza where Casey's just expanded.

*When you went sledding at Fort Hill (A NCC dorm is there now), you had to be careful not to go into the spring.

*The Midway Tavern was where Washington Square Restaurant is now.

*A taxi stand was in a building on the North West Corner of Washington and Benton.

*The Naperville mail was delivered to town by helicopter and it landed by the Sportsman's Park before West Street was there.

*Square ice cream scoops at Prince Castle where the Fredenhagen Park will be.

*Summer Place in a Tent on North Central College. Even earlier, Summer Place in the former Koller Dodge Building on N. Washington St. which is now a

parking lot.

*Lora Mae Donuts next door to Burger King where H&R Block or Halloween Headquarters are.

From the children of John & Louise Spinner--- John, Bob, Chuck and Mary Lou Lydecker

(Look for more in the December issue of PN)

-Buying a big nickel bag of popcorn at Andy's popcorn stand prior to the Thursday night band concert. Andy would cover the top with a napkin secured with a rubber band.

- Monsignor Stenger's sermons at SSPP.

- Henry Althoemer's rewards for his paper boys (picnics at Pioneer Park and bus rides into Soldier's Field for the College All-Star football games).

- While waiting for the papers to arrive by train at Burlington station the paper boys used to pass the time playing "eat the peg" with their pocket knives or play "trip-em" with their paper sacks.

- Kreger's gumball machine (is it still around somewhere?)

- The very first Little League baseball season in Naperville topped off with an appearance by Phil Rizzuto.

- Coach (of the Naperville Little League Merchants team) Phil Flynn's pitching machine.

- Naperville High School homecoming parades and pep rallies in downtown Naperville.

- Sledding down Indian Hill.

- North Central College freshmen class wearing beanies and trying to protect them.

- Driving to get milk at Drendel's farm.

- Kroehler's women softball team.

- Naperville PONY League field being named after George Rice. George Rice and our brother John were the first and second boys to sign up for the league at the Y.  Unfortunately George and his sister Mary Ann both contracted polio and died from this terrible disease.

- The fire department had contests in right field of Kroehler baseball field.  A barrel was secured on a hanging wire and competing of fire fighters would take their water hoses and see who could force the barrel to the other side first.

- SSPP Christmas crib scene.

- The noise (drone) of the machines at Kroehler's furniture factory.

- The mushroom plant, the bag factory, and the gum factory.

- The cow tunnel under the railroad tracks near Kendall Park.

- The Memorial Day parade out to SSPP cemetery for mass prior to the main parade.  Students would march with their classes.

- Elmer Koerner's patience with the kids trying to play their musical instruments.  Also, the pre-Memorial Day practice march to the Prince Castle.

- At the sound of the fire alarm, Bill or John Spinner from the Naperville Liquor Store running out to direct traffic to facilitate the arrival of volunteer firemen and the departure of the firetrucks.

- Prince Castle's Christmas toffee.

- "Spinner to Wetzel" last second touchdown pass to preserve undefeated conference record and ruin St. Charles homecoming.

- Playing across the street at Kendall Park to try to catch Terry Meuller's long pokes in 16 inch softball.

- While waiting at the RR crossing, watching for bums hitching rides on the freight trains. Since we lived a block from the tracks, occasionally a hobo would stop at our house and ask for a sandwich.

- The Christmas parade that was so short that the community band was the first unit to march, then ran back through an alley to march again to lengthen the parade!

- Living in Naperville when its population was between 5 and 10 thousand, surrounded by farms.  Naper Highlands was on the edge of town.

- The Tasty Bakery cinnamon bread.

- Having grade school end-of-the-year class parties at one of your classmates farms (always great fun).

- Al's Market across from SSPP church.

- Buying chocolate or white milk and a roll and having them in grade school class after first Friday mass.

- Having Grandma and Grandpa Rechenmacher, Aunt Marie Riedy, Uncle Joe and Mary Arbogast living on same block (Ellsworth)as us and across the street, cousin, Mike Rechenmacher and his family (& then brother Don), and Aunt Coletta (Grandma Rex's sister) or a total of 6 houses on the block with relatives!

- Telephone party lines.

- The sweet corn festival in the SSPP parking lot.

- - Herds of teenagers in trucks riding to local fields to detassle corn.

- Helping our Dad set up beverage stand at the annual Fredehagen Prince Castle employee picnic and watching the judging of the Prince Castle Queen.

- Shopping in the basement of Becker's department store for Xmas toys.

- Playing football with Washington Jr. High grade school team in 7th & 8th grades.

- Annual Goosepimple Heights Thanksgiving touch football game.

- Being amazed at all the nuts and bolts displayed at Ace Hardware downtown corner store.

- Eating hamburgers and drinking beer at Clarks corner - best tavern burgers in the world!

- Playing tag from raft to raft at Centennial Beach.

- Playing "pickle" in the sand at the Beach.

- Sneaking into North Central College to play pick up basketball games in the upstairs girls' gym and then swimming in the pool afterwards.

- Buying baby chickens (dyed pastel colors) at Kearns Feed Store at Easter time.

- Driving to Chovar's restaurant for a chocolate milk shake - the best in the world!

- Running through the tunnel at Burlington RR station and yelling and listening for the echo.

- Drinking A&W rootbeer in frosted mugs (or mini mugs)at the drive-in.

- Being page boys for the Bishop when he came for special occasions at SSPP.

- Watching indoor track meets, farm auctions, and other events from balcony at North Central College.

- Friday night sock hops at the YMCA.

- Playing in the tree house our uncles built in left field of Kroehler softball field.

- Our sister, Mary Lou, tying for first place in the very first Last Fling talent competition.

- Getting 8 inch long pretzels at our dad's and uncle's Naperville Liquor Store.

I loved reading all of those reminiscences of Old

Naperville, especially The Spinners' and Dick Kuhn's!

I had forgotten a lot of those things until I read

them. It brought-back to mind the shoe store (name?)

on Columbus that had a merry-go-round in the back

that we kids loved to ride. I am now sorry that I

never told Marie Riedy what a memorable reading

teacher she was. At the time we all thought she was

a bit eccentric---and she was---but she made a lasting

impression on me.

I also remember that dear lady (Miriam name?) who

was the librarian at the public library. Her name is

on the tip of my tongue...she was always so patient

with the horde of kids that invaded the library

after school. Our grade school class picnics at

Knock Knolls were always great!

As long as Dick Kuhn mentioned Hobson Road,

I know that a lot of you will  remember swimming at the

Castagnoli's lake and how  gracious Rita Harvard

always was to the kids who showed-up, invited or uninvited!

Another treasure was Mag Drendel who would often babysit

for us as a favor to our parents. We couldn't  wait for Maggie to

arrive, full of stories of old Naperville, the

original Hobson School, Dr. ( name? ) who had the first car

in Naperville and, of course, the great food that

Maggie would prepare with the ingredients from her

farm freezer! When she wasn't babysitting, she and

her brother Art would be entertaining neighborhood

children at their farm.

Thanks for those great stories everyone!

—Bob (Bobby) Raymond  rjr4@ra.msstate.edu

Check your cultural literacy about Naperville!

Every once in awhile, a Naperville trivia quiz is written to jar the memory of local citizens. But what fun is it if you're a newcomer trying to score well on a quiz with facts that date back to 1831 before you arrived on the banks of the DuPage River? 

Since local cultural literacy connects you to your hometown---whether you're a native or a recent transplant---this version takes all its information only from issues of Positively Naperville, first published in September 2001.

Since the publication mostly previews what's happening, regular readers are sure to do well.  Give the test to other family members.  If you have children in your house, you may be surprised what they know, too. Good luck!

1.  Who is the fourth-term Mayor who serves Naperville with a passion for cutting ribbons, reading to children and recognizing the good deeds of others? (OK.  So we gave you an easy one just for starters.)  Mayor A. George Pradel

2. What year did Captain Joe Naper and his brother John bring their families to the banks of the DuPage River?  1831

3. What's the name of the beach that was built in a quarry with funds donated by local citizens during the Depression to commemorate Naperville's 100th birthday? Centennial Beach

4. Who served for 17 years on the Riverwalk Commission (1986-2003) and for nearly 10 years as chairman of the committee that designed and built Naperville's Sesquicentennial gift started in 1981 and the new Fredenhagen Park in 2003? Cliff Preston

5. Who is the current Chairman of the Riverwalk Commission? Rick Hitchcock.

6. What's the name of the historic public art project that enhances places throughout downtown Naperville from Burlington Square Park and the DuPage Children’s Museum to North Central College and Naperville Central High School? Century Walk

7. Who led the way to "Save Our Doughboy," a sculpture in Burlington Square Park honoring World War I infantrymen, located just south of the Naperville Train Station? Dee Pasternak

8. What group worked with local veterans, the City of Naperville and the Naperville Park District to create a garden and a Blue Star Memorial in Burlington Square Park?  Naperville Garden Club

9. What historic home at Naper Settlement has been restored in recent years to its original Victorian splendor? Martin Mitchell Mansion

10. What holiday will be tied to the community celebration called "Naper Days," a revitalization of the old Joe Naper Days at Naper Settlement?  Father's Day

11. Known as "sled hill" when it snows, what's the official name of the hill rising from the Riverwalk built with funds from the Rotary Club of Naperville? Rotary Hill

12. How many carillon bells are inside the Moser Tower at Rotary Hill?  72

13. Who is the current president of the Naperville Park District?  Mike Reilly

14. How many public school districts serve Naperville residents? Two

15. What service organization established here in 1987 sponsors the award-winning Ribfest in Knoch Park every 4th of July weekend?  Exchange Club of Naperville

16.  What’s the name of the Hurricane Katrina relief initiative that built 20 new homes along the Gulf Coast in Pass Christian, Miss.? Naperville Responds

17. What service club took over the organization of the Last Fling after it was established by the Naperville Chamber of Commerce in the mid-1960s and when is it? Naperville Jaycees will bring back the annual family festival and parade over Labor Day Weekend.

18. What's the name of the ice cream restaurant that was demolished to make way for Fredenhagen Park near the Washington Street Bridge?     Cock Robin

19. Who led the way to sponsor the annual Friends of Little Friends Parade, fulfilling a dream of Bill Anderson, president of the Downtown Naperville Alliance, to have a holiday parade in downtown?  Rae and Dave Martin

20. How long have Naperville and Nitra, Slovakia, connected as Sister Cities?  Since 1993.

21. What's the new name of Cardinal Stadium at North Central College?  Benedetti and Wehrli Stadium

22. What's the name of the annual NCO 5K run first presented by Tellabs that is expanding to include a 10K run now at the Calamos campus?  Spring Ahead 5K

23. In 2001, giraffes raised the United Way to new heights. In 2002, everyone went around and round to see carousel horses. In 2003, community bears were all the fuss.  What animals moooved you to get baaahind them in 2004? 2005?  2006? 2007? Barnyard Animals in 2004, Magical Giving Gardens in 2005,       al Dragons in 2006, Under the Sea in 2007 and bugs in 2008.

24. Where is the Naperville Connection located?  On North Aurora Avenue near the 59th Street Train Station.

25. What's the name of the Heritage YMCA located on 95th Street?  Fry Family 95th Street Y

26. How many libraries help sponsor and promote the annual Naperville Reads' program with the school districts and Anderson's Bookshop? Three.

27. Where does the Naperville Municipal Band perform its summer concert series and how many concerts are scheduled for August?   The band plays in the Community Concert Center in Central Park.

28. At one time, Central Park had 406 park benches. How many new ones replaced the old ones for the summer 2008 concert series?   150 new benches.

29. What color was the first Naperville Trolley and Tours vehicle?  Yellow.

30. What group worked with local veterans and the Women's Auxiliary, to create a garden and a Blue Star Memorial at the Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873? Cress Creek Garden Club.

31. Where is the Frisbee Golf located in Naperville? Knoch Knolls Park.

32. What nursery school in Naperville is celebrated 30 years in 2008-09?  Creative Nursery School.

Director of Water and Wastewater Allan Poole, City Manager Bill Norman and Mayor Ken Small in 1973

SEND US YOUR NAPERVILLE MEMORIES!

Naperville Gifts to Remember!

How is this photo connected to the Naperville Art League and the Riverwalk?

Patriotic Memories

of  Veterans Day 2009

Kidz Kabaret in 2003 when many of the performances were in the Hernandez' backyard.

Featured Nostagia Photo / April 2010

Editor's Note: Al Rubin, John Neesley and Arlo Schilling are pictured in 1993 at a Harris Bank event at the Holiday Inn Select. (FYI: The Holiday Inn Select was preceded in name by the Holiday Inn and the Sheriton.

Hey...I came across another old Naperville photo and thought you

might like it. It was taken June 30, 1951 at Judge Win & Irene Knoch's house. It was their 25th wedding anniversary. ... Under the chandelier is Mae Raymond and to the left is Bob Raymond. Others in the photo identified by Betsy Abrahamson include: Marge Knoch Schaller, Mr. & Mrs. Milt Spiegler, Shirley Reiser, Doris Wood, Mr. & Mrs. Harvey Williams, and E.J. and Dorothy Givler Moyer. Judge Knoch was instrumental in so many important events in DuPage County such as The Morton Arboretum, Centennial Beach, Martin Mitchell Manor, First National Bank.....

Best,

—Bob Raymond, Jr.

Submitted June 27, 2010

Fun picture ( 2008 February issue). Are you going to reveal the who, what, why and where in your next issue? Looks like they were having fun gathered for some relaxed project. I noticed several of them had on paw print badges/stickers.  (I recognized)  only Wes Spencer, my math teacher, ...Mr. Coleman, principal ... I did not go through my yearbook to try and match any up. Looks like it was taken during my high school years, though, which was 1968 entering as a Freshman until I graduated in 1972. I was looking for my mom, Hazel MacLennan, who taught 5th grade at Ellsworth for years...not there.

---Gale Ganet, 1972 Naperville North High School Graduate Submitted Feb. 4, 2008

Packing ice cream at Cock Robin!

Naperville News Blog

Thoughts for the day and week!