Taken From the Henry Republican
October 10, 1872
Last week, one of the pleasantest of the year, was assigned to the Wenona union fair, which improved it by one of the best of country fairs, such a one, as people generally like to visit and know how to appreciate. The grounds contain 40 acres, with all conveniences (except decent drinking water for mankind,) plenty of stalls, pens, two fine amphitheaters, a new floral hall, a tower for judges and brass band, and a first rate half mile track. The display in every department was first rate, and the visitors all that could be wished, the receipts reaching upwards of $4000. Mr. James Thornton of Magnolia should (showed) us several pens of fine swine of the Magee breed, two noble sows of which produced him pigs that brought over $200 last year. We were also shown some very fine stock by Thomas Judd, Esq., of his own raising, that were splendid indeed. On the grounds was a pet fawn, sent as a present only the day before to our contemporary, Cadet Taylor, Esq. Prof. D’Orville, performed acceptably upon a rope in the way of walking, turning somersaults, wheeling a barrow thereon, etc. Trotting and racing were also important features among the attractions of the occasion.
It is unnecessary for us to go into details. The fair was well patronized both in entries and receipts, and a success beyond that of last year. The managers have steered clear of breakers; everything runs smooth, and contributes to make it all that heart could wish. Nothing is left undone in the details. If you want a place to lodge, a committee is there ready to care for you, you place your baggage in the check room, while on the ground; ample seats provided for all visitors; no gaming or gift schemes are allowed on the ground to catch pin money of the thoughtless; and in every particular imaginable the good of the people is consulted and zealously maintained. We are glad to see the advancement made and that everything was upon so sound a basis.
During our stay we were made welcome by Mr. John O. Dent and his family, who were entertaining nine beside their own folks. Mr. D. is one of the pioneers of that part of Illinois, and perhaps has done as much for railroads and the building up of his section as any other one man. He has a very large beautiful home, nicely furnished, with every convenience that taste and comforts dictates. He has much landed estate, and is one of the most successful business men of the town. Nathaniel Moore, our member of legislature has a beautiful place in the edge of town, made so by the tasty skillful hands of its prosperous owner. J. A. McCall is another promoter of the interests of Wenona, helping to rebuild it, and giving the town a very fine hall for public purposes. Some beautiful farms, were seen on our way home, Thomas and Benjamin Judd, being among the finest in the township. Our trip was a short one but most agreeable.
Wenona Post Office Robbed
Taken From the Henry Republican
May 22, 1873
The post office at Wenona has been robbed again. A man giving his name as J. Storey broke into the office on Saturday, and took all the letters and a small sum of money. He then entered the Adelbert House and took his valise and $5 in money that he found, and then on foot started towards Magnolia. Detectives were put on his track, and he was captured at the Magnolia hotel eating his supper. He was taken to Wenona for examination, and will probably be held for trial.
Taken From the Henry Republican
April 29, 1875
Wenona held its municipal election last week Tuesday, and the license men carried the day by a vote of 108 for to 80 against it. The officers elect are as follows: mayor, Thomas Lloyd, re-elected; clerk, Myers; treasurer, Ralston; attorney, Bond; police magistrate, Foster; aldermen, Vaughn, Chapman and O’Brien.
The 1875 Wenona Fair Premium List
Taken From the Henry Republican
September 16, 1875
With the Wenona Fair premium list, just issued from the Index office, is a very creditable pamphlet, of which the Index, for its typographical appearance, need not be ashamed. The pamphlet is also what it is represented to be - a premium list of the Wenona union fair, and not an advertising document as many such lists seem to be. The fair commences Sept. 27, and lasts five days. Its president is L. M. Sawyer of Ancona; its secredtaries Dr. C. Perry and Cadet Taylor, its treasurer E. S. Fowler, and general superintendent Thomas Judd, all of Wenona. Its officers, directors, department and class superintendents are all selected from residents on the east side of the river; but among committees of awards in the various classes, the following are selected from the westsiders: On thoroughbred durhams, D. W. Danley of Henry: on thoroughbred devons, Royal Olmsted of Saratoga: thoroughbred horses, I. P. Bush of Henry, Carles Fosbender of Sparland; on saddle and carriage horses, G. F. Paskell of Henry; on fabrics, A. M. Pool of Henry; on printing and binding, E. H. Phelps of the Wyoming Post. Among superintendents we notice the selection of Miss Hattie Fyffe, our fair Magnolia correspondent, who takes the supervision and arrangement of the flowers and birds, and also H. K. Smith, another correspondent, that of domestic and manufactured goods, both competent for these positions. The prospects for the fair are flattering, and it is expected that the display of fancy herds will be greater than ever; also larger exhibits in every department.
1876 Wenona Fire
Taken From the Henry Republican
March 16, 1876
For the third time Wenona has suffered a severe loss by fire. Saturday night last a fire broke out in Badgeley’s building, on Main street, which was occupied by A. E. Badgeley, dentist; J. T. Forney, photographer, and Scott & Beecher, grocers. The building is a total loss. The fire burned the next building owned by Mr. Taylor and occupied by John Reuter as a barber shop. Both buildings were of wood. Hudson’s brick was partially burned.
The Index building was also partially burned. The losses area as follows: Badgely building $2000, insured for $600; Scott & Beecher $3000, insured for $1500; Reuter $40, no insurance; Taylor $500, insured for $300; Hudson $1000, insured; Thompson $500, insured. Chapman’s loss is $200 on household goods. The Index building was damaged $400, insured. Sawyer’s loss in $200 on household goods. Taylor & Taylor, books and stationary damaged by water, insured. A telegram was sent to La Salle for assistance, but the fire was under control when they were ready to start. The citizens of Wenona, made up a purse of $50 for the LaSalle fire company for their prompt response.
The Father Matthew Society
Taken From the Henry Republican
August 3, 1876
The Father Matthew society of Wenona is preparing for a celebration and parage August 15. The neighboring temperance organizations will be invited and a grand time is looked for.
Business Failures at Wenona
February 28, 1878
Wenona has had two business failures within the past ten day, which has caused considerable excitement in that city. The first failure, say the Index, was Mat. Petri, dealer in clothing. He made an assignment to L. H. Tower, who has charge of both the Wenona and Rutland stores. As near as can be ascertained the liabilities are $9000; assets about $6000.
The second failure occurred last Thursday by the banking house of John A. McCall and Co. closing its doors. The liabilites are estimated at $35,000, much of it belonging to depositors. H. J. DePue, county treasurer, had upwards of $7000 on deposit in the bank at the time of the failure, the money belonging to Evans township, and deposited there by request of its citizens, which was held in reserve as a sinking fund for town indebtedness. Hon. Nathaniel Moore has been appointed receiver, who will make a detailed statement of the affairs of the bank as soon as ascertained. It is reported that the bank will be able to pay in full if time is given to adjust real estate transactions and other matters connected with the business operations of the bank. Messrs. McCall and Adams are worthy men, and general regret is expressed at their misfortune.
New Bank Organized
March 21, 1878
A new bank has been organized at Wenona under the firm name of Howe, Hodge & Ralston. Of this new firm the Index speaks: "The first named, Peter Howe, is one of our largest land owners, and can command any amount of wealth. Lewis J. Hodge, one of the leading lumber merchants of this part of the state, is the second names, and J. T. Ralston, who has been the popular cashier of Mr. McCall for several years, is the last names. The public have the utmost confidence in these individuals, and we shall expect to see them do an immense business."
Henry Republican, Henry, IL
January 26, 1882 - Wenona
Invitations are out for the wedding of Miss Minnie Broaddus and Daniel Wright, Thursday evening, Jan. 27. Both parties are well known in our community and highly esteemed, and the occasion is looked forward with much interest.
The German doctor from Lostant spent two days here in vaccinating the German children in the vicinity.
Henry Republican , Thursday, October 19, 1882
Wenona
The shaft is down 460 feet and another 100 feet will put them to a third vein.
Miss Mary Work and A. L. Turner are to have the matrimonial knot tied the 26th inst. - our congrats.
Farms Quarantined for Foot and Mouth Disease
Taken From the Henry News Republican
March 4, 1915 - Wenona Index
On Monday, Dr. Smellie of Eureka, quarantined the farm of H. T. Ireland, managed by Robert McKee and run jointly by them. The foot and mouth disease was found among the cattle, of which there are 76 head, mostly yearling calves; also 144 head of hogs. Just two weeks ago eight car-loads of big cattle were shipped from this farm on account of the disease bieng in the neighborhood, and although the market price received by these was unsatisfactory, Messrs. Ireland and McKee are congratulating themselves on having gotten rid of them when they did.
The cattle and hogs on the Ben Boone place in Richland township, were all slaughtered recently and buried in trenches with quick lime. Forty-two head of hogs and 17 head of cattle were killed. These animales had all fed from a schock of (..? ..) where the dogs had been, (..?...) strenthens the belief that (...?....) carried the germs to the place.
Wenona Coal Mine News
Taken from the Henry Republican, December 18, 1879
From Neighboring Exchanges
Wenona held a coal meeting Tuesday at which a company was formed and $4500
subscribed. A shaft for coal is to be sunk at once.
Taken from the Henry Republican, February 19, 1880
A coal company has been formed at Wenona, the following to be the incorporators
of the same under the general law: John O. Dent, Col. G. L. Fort, E. P. Barber,
W. J. Merrill, S. B. Patch, M. Bayne, Cadet Taylor.
Taken from the Henry Republican, April 8, 1880
Wenona - The contract for sinking a coal shaft was let on Friday last to LaSalle miners, and the work will begin as soon as the machinery can be procured. Wenonians are therefore jubilant over the near realization of their long cherished hopes.
Taken from the Henry Republican, May 13, 1880
Wenona - On Monday, May 10th, the earth was broken for the coal shaft, and notwithstanding the mud, a large number of citizens and farmers were present to witness the long talked of event. At the instance of Mr. Dixon, the foreman of the work, the privilege of first breaking the ground was accorded to the ladies. Accordingly a trio consisting of Mrs. W. H. Merrill, Mrs. A. H. Stateler, and Miss Libbie Hood, each armed with a new shovel, took their position within the space staked out and after a short speech by Hon. J. O. Dent, began the work of excavation of the shaft, Mrs. Merrill casting the first shovel of dirt (or mud), which ceremony being concluded, Mayor Stateler and Thomas Judds, Esq., the former representing the city and the latter the farming country, came in for second honors. The work will not be continued we hope to completion and ultimate success.
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