Shakopee Snapshots

150 Years Ago: From the May 20, 1875 Shakopee Argus

Our Justices’ Courts are still full of business. We have not known so much petty litigation in this county since 1857 and 1858 as is prevailing at this time. Hard times and scarcity of money may have something to do with this state of things, but the winding up of some business matters produces most of the litigation.

125 Years Ago: From the May 17, 1900 Scott County Argus

The brick has been removed from the east side of L. Mayer’s residence, on Second and Sommerville streets, and a large addition will be made to the present structure to be used as a first-class boarding house.

125 Years Ago: From the May 18, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

Kohls & Berens are building a one-story addition 35 feet long and one 18 feet which will even the building recently vacated by John Mertz and the one occupied by H. P. Marx with the corner store building.

100 Years Ago: From the May 22, 1925 Shakopee Argus

R. O. Brockway had his airplane here Sunday and spent a large part of the day in learning to pilot it. As soon as he becomes proficient and gains full confidence in his ability as a pilot, Mr. Brockway intends to use his machine to carry passengers. What with an airplane, automobiles, hourly busses and two railway lines at the command of the local public Shakopee is strictly up-to-date and takes pride in its very modern facilities for transportation.

100 Years Ago: From the May 21, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

The Presbyterian church property has been beautified by the setting out of one-half dozen elm trees on the boulevard. The men of the congregation had a tree planting party. They also made some splendid new improvements in the church parlors, adding to the conveniences of serving large numbers of their dinners. The Ladies’ Aid Society furnished lunch to show their appreciation of the good work.

75 Years Ago: From the May 18, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Modernizing and Enlarging Store

More than 1,700 square feet of additional floor space, a new and modernly designed front will result from remodeling and construction operations now under way at the House of Bargains building on West First street.

Plans call for a 40 by 32 foot addition on the north, and a 15 by 19 foot addition on the east side. Concrete block, glass block, Kasota stone and plate glass are being combined to produce a novel structure, Pat O’Connor, owner, said.

75 Years Ago: From the May 18, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

CC Hears Report On New Hospital

Possibilities of new industries locating here and the erection of a new 70 to 100 bed hospital were the chief topics discussed at the regular monthly meeting of the Shakopee Commercial Club Tuesday night at the Legion club.

After Dr. B. F. Pearson presented a preliminary report on the hospital situation, the club voted to appoint a committee to assist the Sisters of St. Francis if such assistance is needed. Club president R. D. Johnson will name the committee at a later date…

50 Years Ago: From the May 21, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

Tax question may be returned to court

A petition has been filed by the City of Shakopee from Minnesota Valley Mall, Inc. for annexation of the 140 acre site west of Shakopee on Highway 169. The matter of annexation has been a question of controversy between the city and Jackson Township.

Minnesota Valley Mall has requested annexation in order to obtain city services, specifically water, sewer and liquor license privileges.

25 Years Ago: From the May 18, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

Clinton visit shakes Shakopee

Crowds get chance to meet president

President Clinton wowed ‘em in Shakopee Friday.

Clinton spoke to a crowd of about 500 at the Hauer farm … pushing for the permanent normalization of trade relations with China, and afterward seemed to shake every hand offered to him…

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150 Years Ago: From the May 13, 1875 Shakopee Argus

The City Justices want permission to hold their courts in the City Hall—that is the question.

125 Years Ago: From the May 10, 1900 Scott County Argus

The grounds on which stands the new Presbyterian church are being graded and sodded. The fence surrounding the parsonage adjacent has been removed, and the whole effect is very gratifying to the eye.

125 Years Ago: From the May 11, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

Quite a large stock of telephone material is being restored in the old Tribune building awaiting the completion of the local telephone exchange.

100 Years Ago: From the May 15, 1925 Shakopee Argus

Graduation

Shakopee High school will graduate a class of thirteen young people at commencement exercises to be held at Dawson’s hall, Friday evening, May 29^th. There will be no address this year, the program including only school talent…

100 Years Ago: From the May 14, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

M. J. Berens & Sons recently installed a display refrigerator counter in their grocery department which adds materially to the appearance and service facilities of this department as the refrigerator counter is equipped with an ice compartment in connection with the glass covered counter display space.

75 Years Ago: From the May 11, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Sells Interest in Argus-Tribune to Associate

In a transaction effective May 1, James B. Hall, former co-owner of the Argus-Tribune, disposed of his interests to his partner, Frank Strunk who is now the sole owner of the publishing, printing and office supply business.

Mr. Strunk and Mr. Hall had been associated in the operation of the business since 1945 when they purchased the plant from its former owner, W. F. Duffy.

Mr. Hall, recuperating from a recent illness, has made no plans for the immediate future.

75 Years Ago: From the May 11, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Plan Revamping Of Council Room

Possibility of remodeling the city council chambers and the firemen’s meeting room was discussed by the council at their regular meeting Tuesday. In addition, much routine business was transacted.

The city building committee is investigating plans to remove parts of the raised platform upon which the aldermen sit and to replace individual chairs with large tables.

The tables would be large enough for 16 people to sit around. That would provide places for the mayor, nine aldermen, city attorney, recorder and assistant, and visitors.

Melvin Lebens, head of Lebenscraft, cabinet makers, talked to the council and explained the various tables and arrangements that might be made. The committee is to get cost estimates of remodeling the chambers and also redecorating the firemen’s quarters…

50 Years Ago: From the May 14, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

School board reaffirms stand on proposed 11th Ave. construction

Shakopee school board members passed a resolution Monday evening reaffirming a previously stated opinion concerning support of proposed 11^th Avenue that is planned for the northern edge of the new Junior High school site along the Scenic Heights addition and ordered copies be sent to Shakopee city officials.

That same resolution, however, called for all possible attempts to control the flow of traffic on 11^th Avenue and hence through the residential area of Scenic Heights…

25 Years Ago: From the May 11, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

Clinton may visit city Friday

President Clinton is expected to visit a farm near Shakopee Friday to promote what he believes are benefits to farmers if trade is normalized with China.

Details had not been released late Wednesday morning, but U.S. Rep. David Minge confirmed plans for the visit. The president had been expected to visit a farm near New Ulm, but the White House determined that Scott County would be more suitable because it’s closer to the Twin Cities where Clinton’s plane would land.

Minge’s press secretary, Jason Kelly, said the congressman got a warm reception earlier this week when he approached the White House about a visit by the president.

Sites were being scouted by the Secret Service and Minge’s office on Wednesday…

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150 Years Ago: From the May 6, 1875 Shakopee Argus

On Saturday John Holloran was arrested for peddling or selling tea by sample within the city limits without a license. His defense appears to be that there is no legal ordinance against so doing. The jury failed to agree, and a new jury was called and the case is on trial again to-day.

125 Years Ago: From the May 3, 1900 Scott County Argus

The fine lawn at Jacob Ries’ residence is being made more beautiful by sodding the entire plot. Cement walks were laid last fall, and the sodding is being laid several inches higher than the walks, except in the space from the street sidewalk to the curbing, which is level. The large shade trees in the grounds, and along the street inside the curb, combined with the sod and the cement walks, make the whole effect very pleasing to the eye, and a credit to the city and the progressive owner.

125 Years Ago: From the May 4, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

The remains of Mrs. Wm. Germond were exhumed last Monday, and transferred to a new lot in the Catholic cemetery, which will be beatified and adorned with a large, handsome monument.

100 Years Ago: From the May 8, 1925 Shakopee Argus

The M. J. Berens family are remodeling the interior of their home, Fred Rohlfs being the architect and having the work in charge.

100 Years Ago: From the May 7, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

Prison Conference to Be Held Here May 28, 29, 30

The sixth annual conference of the committee on the care and training of delinquent women and girls of the national committee on prisons and prison labor, will be held at the Reformatory for Women in Shakopee, on May 28, 29 and 30.

An educational program will be presented each day during the conference. These programs will include discussions, lectures and talks by some of the ablest speakers obtainable. Everyone in the city of Shakopee and vicinity is invited to the Reformatory on the above dates to enjoy the program offered…

75 Years Ago: From the May 4, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Buys Grocery

Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Trost who for several years operated a 3.2 beer place on Lewis street here, have purchased a grocery in Northeast Minneapolis, it was learned. They sold their business here to Charles Suffridge, formerly of Robbinsdale.

75 Years Ago: From the May 4, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Commissioners Study Plans For New Jail

Preliminary plans for a new jail and sheriff’s residence were presented to the county board for their approval at the regular May meeting Tuesday.

Some minor changes in the plans and specifications were decided and the architect, Hubert Swanson, will incorporate the suggestions into the final plans. The voters of the county will be presented the proposition at the general election in the fall…

50 Years Ago: From the May 7, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

Tree planting

Shakopee’s American Legion and VFW Post joined in Arbor Day “tree planting” beautification project Saturday morning at the St. Mark’s Catholic cemetery along County Road 16 and at St. Mark’s church in Shakopee…

25 Years Ago: From the May 4, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

Church to add wing

Faith Lutheran Church held a groundbreaking event for a new educational wing on April 16. The additional space will be used for classrooms for the church’s growing Sunday school and other educational programs. Plans call for the wing to open by next fall. The church is located south of Shakopee High School at the intersection of county roads 78 and 79.

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125 Years Ago: From the April 26, 1900 Scott County Argus

The M. E. church structure is almost level with the ground. The contractors are taking it entirely to pieces rather than saw it into sections for removal. The corner stone was digged out and the box within it removed, but moisture had got into it, the box was almost ready to fall in pieces, and the contents were mere molds of clay, amongst which could be discerned by breaking the lumps one way, the words of a hymnal and a Bible. The stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies 32 years ago.

125 Years Ago: From the April 27, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

Last Sunday morning shortly after 12 o’clock fire was discovered in the frame building at the alley on Holmes street opposite the old skating rink. The building being an old one and filled with highly combustible material the fire spread so rapidly that in a few minutes the building was enveloped in flames towering high into the air, the heat was so intense that there was danger for nearby buildings and the firemen were kept on the watch, but as the air was very clam, the fire was easily kept from spreading. The building was owned by Frank Buch and occupied by Doctor Fischer as a straw shed and store room for his sleigh, cutter and stoves. The loss to Doctor Fischer is about $300 with no insurance. The general supposition is that the fire was incendiary but there is no trace as to the miscreant.

100 Years Ago: From the May 1, 1925 Shakopee Argus

New Pipe Organ

The pipe organ at St. Mark’s church has been taken out to make room for a handsome new one which will be installed as speedily as possible. While St. Mark’s is without an organ no high masses will be celebrated and no afternoon services will be held on Sundays. The new organ will be dedicated as soon as it is in readiness, probably early in June.

100 Years Ago: From the April 30, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

A group of local men have conceived the idea of starting a gun club in Shakopee and for the purpose of organizing the club, have decided to hold a meeting in the Leo Huss blacksmith shop, Friday evening, May 1, commencing at 7 o’clock. Local hunters and all who are interested in this movement are invited to be present at this meeting.

75 Years Ago: From the April 27, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Rev. H. J. Byrne Named Pastor of St. Mary’s

Rev. Henry J. Byrne, for the past eight years pastor of St. Anastasia church of Hutchinson has been named pastor of St. Mary’s church of Shakopee, it was disclosed this week. Father Byrne succeeds the late Rev. Michael A. McRaith…

75 Years Ago: From the April 27, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Red Owl Store To Have Glass Front

Construction of a new plate glass front at the Red Owl Store is underway this week. According to Leo Robeck, owner, the front will have three large plate glass pane while the lower portion will be of brick and stucco. With the exception of the front, the entire store has been completely remodeled in the past two years.

50 Years Ago: From the April 30, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

Stockers announce Gambles grand opening

Ron and Dotty Stocker announced this week their grand opening of the Shakopee Gambles hardware store on Lewis between First and Second Avenues.

25 Years Ago: From the April 27, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

Book recounts early days of river valley

As a boy living along the Minnesota River, E.J. Pond watched in awe as Indian braves from the Sioux and Chippewa bands clashed in May 1858.

Interviewed by a feature writer in 1925, a 77-year-old Pond recalled the days before Shakopee became a city, when Native American families camped on the banks of the mighty river and warmed themselves by the fire in the Pond home.

His and other pioneer tales are included in a book published last month by the Shakopee Heritage Society, “Recollections of Early Pioneers, 1925” was released as a fund-raiser for the fledgling club.

Formed in April 1999, the Shakopee Heritage Society boasts 21 members and meets about four times a year…

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150 Years Ago: From the April 22, 1875 Shakopee Argus

John Ley has opened a new Tailor shop on First street.

125 Years Ago: From the April 19, 1900 Scott County Argus

The brick layers are at work on an addition to the Kopp & Kopp blacksmith shop which, when it is finished, and the whole is thrown into one workroom will make a model smith and one so commodious that 25 or 30 horses may be in the shop at one time, and still leave room for the shoers to work. The new portion is at the rear, and is 20 by 28 feet in size, constructed of brick laid by Aug. Woehling & Co. The forgo will be moved back and to the north side of the shop, and a small office will also be built on the same side at the front. The business of the firm has long been too large for the present size of the shop, and the larger quarters will remove all these inconveniences. The new shop will be 20 by 60 feet in dimensions.

125 Years Ago: From the April 20, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

Joseph Fischer has commenced laying a cement sidewalk on the south and west side of the city hall which will be a very neat as well as a necessary improvement. He also has several contracts laying sidewalks in the resident portions of the city, some of them extending a whole block. This is evident that his work of last year has given general satisfaction, and that his new enterprise promises to develop into an extensive business, for the benefit of the city in general.

100 Years Ago: From the April 24, 1925 Shakopee Argus

Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Strehlow, who sold their residence property recently and left Friday for St. Paul intending to make their home in that city, returned the first of the week, Mrs. Strehlow being so homesick that it was deemed best by her husband to bring her back to Shakopee. The aged couple will remain here, and their many friends are glad to learn of their decision.

100 Years Ago: From the April 23, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

Books for Public Library Are Requested

A roll of honor will be printed in this paper next week of those who are good enough to donate a book or books to the Public Library…

75 Years Ago: From the April 20, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Buys Ice Business

Leonard Brick became the owner of the Sanitary Ice Co. this past month, having purchased the business from Buddy Siebenaler. Mr. Brick’s announcement is in the classified column this week.

75 Years Ago: From the April 20, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Shakopee Birds Gain Wide Fame

That Shakopee pigeons are achieving international fame was shown this week with the arrival of two newspapers from Germany. The papers, the “Kleinter Fucha” and “Der Geflugel Zucher” of Frankfurt, contained pictures and write-ups about King pigeons raised and shown by W. B. Schroeder. The Shakopee pigeon fancier has attained a wide reputation for the excellence of his birds and is presently the secretary of the American King Club.

50 Years Ago: From the April 23, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

City crews were busy at Memorial Park this week, preparing for the opening of the park. Workers are shown drilling holes for guard rails around the entrance to the park. Users of the park are reminded that the asphalt trails are for pedestrian travel only and no motorized vehicles of any kind are allowed.

25 Years Ago: From the April 20, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

Murphy’s gets $750,000 grant

The reconstruction of historic Murphy’s Inn and Landing got a big boost this week with the news of a $700,000 grant from federal transportation funds through the Metropolitan Council.

The grant will help fund the reconstruction of the historic inn, landing and trail in Shakopee from the inn down to the riverfront within the historic park. The grant includes some funds for research on the inn.

The trail is planned to eventually link to a trail the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) plans to build. The DNR now has an undeveloped trail from the site of the old Bloomington Ferry Bridge to Memorial Park in Shakopee.

Murphy’s Landing Executive Director Dennis Kelly said the total project is expected to cost approximately $1.2 million. He said the federal award boosts the amount Murphy’s has dedicated to the project to approximately $925,000…

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150 Years Ago: From the April 15, 1875 Shakopee Argus

The Minnesota River is on a bender. The bottom lands are all overflowed and the highest banks have nearly disappeared beneath the water. The river is to-day on the rise.

125 Years Ago: From the April 12, 1900 Scott County Argus

J. A. Wilder is making a decided improvement in his lumberyard. The office has been moved to a site on the corner of Lewis and Second streets, and a new shed 18 x 72 feet in size extends from it to the old shed. The new arrangement will allow a much larger stock to be carried under cover than heretofore.

125 Years Ago: From the April 13, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

John Dean is erecting a substantial sheet iron faced shed on the north side of his blacksmith shop.

100 Years Ago: From the April 17, 1925 Shakopee Argus

The new electric fire siren was tried out at eight o’clock Saturday morning and left no doubt as to the alarm it can sound. The fireman who can sleep through it will have no excuse but to resign. The siren is guaranteed to be heard eleven miles and Saturday’s test was only a partial demonstration of what it is capable in the matter of bloodcurdling noise.

100 Years Ago: From the April 16, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

FOR SALE—6-room house on East First street. Inquire of A. F. Huth, Shakopee.

75 Years Ago: From the April 13, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

To Expand Ball Stand Service

Expansion of the services of the concession stand at Riverside park for the baseball season that will soon get under way was outlined at a meeting of the offices and directors of the Shakopee Recreational Association, Inc., Monday night.

The directors engaged Lee Wagner to manage the stand for the season and to secure vendors who will be paid for their services, it was learned.

Plans for improving the stand and service to fans include the addition of a vendors’ service area at the east end of the present stand space. The addition will be used serving vendors only and will eliminate interference with customers at the counter, it was pointed out.

Installation of a popcorn machine and a lunch counter for “hot dogs” and coffee are also contemplated.

Painting of the light towers and fence are likewise on the list of things to be done before the ball season gets well along.

75 Years Ago: From the April 13, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Council Changes Electric Rates

Electric rates for Shakopee consumers were revamped by action of the city council at the regular meeting Tuesday evening. The new rates will abolish some discriminations prevalent in the existing rate structure, it was reported.

Essentially, the old residential structure is abolished and the former residential range rate will be in effect for both urban and rural consumers…

50 Years Ago: From the April 16, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

Lauer’s grand opening

A two-day grand opening sale, highlighted by an array of free merchandise prize drawings and free coffee and cookies, will be held Friday and Saturday at Lauer’s Our-Own Hardware (formerly Burshek’s) in downtown Shakopee.

New owner Don Lauer, who purchased Burshek’s from previous owner Ed Hopps, invites past patrons and potential new customers to come in, look around, have a cup of coffee, a cookie and register for the more than fifty door prize drawings that will be given away…

25 Years Ago: From the April 13, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

Some school start, end times changing

Addressing concerns over the timing of bus runs this school year, the Shakopee School Board Monday approved a five-minute change in start and end of day times for the senior high, junior high, Sun Path Elementary, and Shakopee Area Catholic Schools (SACS).

The change to earlier times becomes effective next fall.

Shakopee Services, the district’s student transportation provider, has reported difficulties completing the three bus runs in the time provided, explained Superintendent Bob Ostlund…

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150 Years Ago: From the April 8, 1875 Shakopee Argus

On Monday the St. Paul & Sioux City R. R. commenced running a California Through Train with Pullman Sleeping Cars. This arrangement has made a change of time necessary, as will be seen in the Time Table of this company, in another column.

125 Years Ago: From the April 5, 1900 Scott County Argus

Work upon the removal of the M E church structure to Bloomington has been begun in earnest. The pews and inside furnishings have been removed there, the steeple is down, and the dismemberment of the building which has stood upon its commanding site for thirty two years in Shakopee, is going on a pace. The reconstruction will require a period of some months, and it will be late in the summer before the church at Bloomington Ferry will be ready for occupancy.

125 Years Ago: From the April 6, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

Wm. Duffy’s grocery store presents a better appearance since painters Wilcox & Oster applied a few coats of paint.

100 Years Ago: From the April 10, 1925 Shakopee Argus

Shakopee’s Municipal Election Develops Some Surprises

Shakopee’s biennial municipal election has been held, the people have spoken and the various officers were chosen to serve the city for the next two years. One of the surprises of the election was the election of Miss Elizabeth K. Ries as mayor. John P. Ring had filed and was a candidate for re-election. Miss Ries had not filed, but a number of her friends decided at the eleventh hour to endeavor to elect her by having stickers with her name printed thereon, placed in the hands of the voters. The result was that she was elected by a majority of twenty-nine votes. So that Shakopee, for the next two years will be one of the few towns in the state with the distinction of having a woman mayor…

100 Years Ago: From the April 9, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

Henry Herman Strehlow sold his residence property on Third and Lewis streets to Ed Kopp of Eagle Creek. The deal was closed yesterday and the amount of the consideration was $1700.00.

75 Years Ago: From the April 6, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Legion Club Is Newly Furnished Redecorated

The newly decorated and re-furnished Legion club is the object of much favorable comment from Legion and Auxiliary members and others who have visited the place the past week.

A new floor has been laid in the lobby, wood panneling has been effectively utilized in partitions and bar room, and the entire interior has been cleaned and renovated.

Floor lamps, chrome and yellow leather furniture including a davenport and two chairs have been added to the furnishings. A coffee table and new drapes of hammered gray satin are other items that help make the club pleasant and attractive.

75 Years Ago: From the April 6, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Council Votes Pump Repairs

At a special meeting of the City Council called Tuesday evening to expedite repair of the 700 foot main water pump, R. H. Routs, superintendent of utilities, told the body that the pump had been severely cut due to pumping a mixture of sand and water at some previous time.

After hearing Houts, the council decided that since the cost of repairing the defective parts was so close to the cost of new parts, the city would purchase new parts for the pump.

25 Years Ago: From the April 6, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

Shakopee Jaycees come to the rescue of Derby Days

After struggling for months to get this year’s festival off the ground, Derby Days 2000 organizers have found a sponsor in the Shakopee Jaycees.

The Jaycees have stepped in to guide festivities over the next two years, though much of the legwork will be done by an independent Derby Days committee, explained Dave Thompson, committee co-chair…

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150 Years Ago: From the April 1, 1875 Shakopee Argus

The East Shakopee School closed last week, but the question is, when will it commence again? Its funds have run out.

125 Years Ago: From the March 29, 1900 Scott County Argus

Peter Arensbach has bought of Anton Marschall the little white pony and cart which were a familiar equipage on the streets for some years past, and will turn it over to St. Paul parties. The price paid was $50.

125 Years Ago: From the March 30, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

John Wampach narrowly escaped what might have proven a fatal accident last Friday. While he was engaged raising the drill out of a well he is digging on his own place, his coat was caught in the gear of the machine, and had it not been for a flaw in the drive chain causing it to break, his arm would have been ground to pieces. As it was he had his arm seriously injured so that he will be compelled to rest a few weeks.

100 Years Ago: From the April 3, 1925 Shakopee Argus

New Fire Siren

A new electric fire siren purchased by the city from Baldwin Bros., Winona, arrived Monday and is awaiting installation. The alarm cost $325 and will be operated by a 5 h. p. motor. A location for the siren has not yet been decided upon.

100 Years Ago: From the April 2, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

R. O. Brockway, proprietor of the Gem Theater, recently purchased a Curtiss two-passenger government aeroplane from Marvin A. Northrop of Minneapolis Mr. Brockway is learning to fly the plane and is taking a course of instructions from Lieut. Westover, who is located at the flying field at Robbinsdale.

75 Years Ago: From the March 30, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Activity at School Site

Activities at the site of Shakopee’s new public school addition got under way late last week with the erection of an office building and start of construction of a tool shed and warehouse. A saw house is also to be erected to house power tools to be used in cutting lumber.

Three local men, it was learned, are already employed in the preliminary work. Start of the major construction job, workmen said, would not be likely until the frost leaves the ground and excavation can be undertaken.

The office which has been set up on the southeast corner of the school block on Lewis street will serve as the supervisory and business center for the St. Mary’s school building job as well as the public school project, Harvey Michaud, superintendent said…

75 Years Ago: From the March 30, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Mr. and Mrs. Norbert Nagel’s year old niece, Marsha Louise Luers, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Luers of Excelsior, was a winner of the $2.50 merchandise prize during the recent photo contest held at the Scott County Drug. Her picture was then judged the best in the baby division and she was awarded the grand prize of $5.00.

50 Years Ago: From the April 2, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

City retains Bonestroo firm for Municipal Service Building

Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik and Associated, Incorporated, will be retained to construct the new Municipal Services Building in Shakopee according to an action taken by the city council Tuesday evening.

The council met at 6:30 p.m. with representatives of design and build firms and with representatives of architectural firms in an attempt to decide which avenue would be best for the city to pursue.

Council members were interested in two primary considerations: 1) Would the design and build concept save the city building costs and if so, how much, and, 2) How long would it take to construct a building through the design and build method.

The council decided that no “substantial savings” would be realized by pursuing one method over another and that occupancy time was “of the essence.”…

25 Years Ago: From the March 30, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

County offers new approach to service

When the renovated west end of the Scott County Government Center’s first level was unveiled and the east end of the building was boarded up last month, citizens got their first look at the long-discussed One Stop system county officials have long been awaiting.

The new customer service area opened in January. The intent of the system is to allow citizens to have all their needs taken care of at one window. From driver’s licenses to marriage license, plats to paying taxes, customers only have to visit the county’s new customer service window…

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150 Years Ago: From the March 25, 1875 Shakopee Argus

Three of the Shakopee railroad suits have come to grief in the Supreme Court. Mrs. Spencer against the St. P. & S. C. R. R.; Mrs. Wampach against the same company, and Mr. Jurgens against the same,–each to recover street damages. A new trial has been granted in each case because special damages to the user of the buildings on their lots were allowed, when the complaints did not show that there were any shops or houses on the lots.

125 Years Ago: From the March 22, 1900 Scott County Argus

J. A. Dean is planing to build a warehouse adjoining his shop on Lewis street. The structure will be 30 x 36 feet in size, one story in height, and work on it will be begun as soon as the weather permits.

125 Years Ago: From the March 23, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

B. J. Gentgen and Peter Paul are beautifying the clerk of court’s office with new wall paper this week.

100 Years Ago: From the March 27, 1925 Shakopee Argus

Graduates’ Gifts

Shakopee high school graduates of 1923 and 1924 who left money to be used for the purchase of something suitable for the school, and as class memorials for themselves, will be gratified to learn that the funds have been expended for a handsome piano lamp, a piano bench, and books. After buying the first two articles the sum of $40 remained with which to buy books. To this amount the state added another $40, and a discount allowed makes it possible to obtain $100 worth of books for the original $40. Members of the classes will be pleased to know that the money has been spent wisely and well. The students of today and the future will have the use of some very fine gifts and on behalf of them the Argus has been asked to express appreciation and extend thanks to the classes of ’23 and ’24 for their splendid contribution to the school.

100 Years Ago: From the March 26, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

Elsewhere in this issue L. Schaefer has an advertisement telling of a closing out sale to be held at his store. During this sale Mr. Schaefer will dispose of his entire stock of jewelry, fixtures, etc. Mr. Schaefer has not determined on his future plans but finds it necessary to discontinue his present vocation due to the fact that his eyesight is failing him.

75 Years Ago: From the March 23, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

C. F. Trost Sells Business Here

Charles F. Trost has sold his 3.2 beer business here to Charles Ruffridge, formerly of Robbinsdale, it was learned. The transaction was completed this week…

75 Years Ago: From the March 23, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Car Wiring Burns

Shakopee firemen were called out early Saturday to Shakopee Avenue when the wiring on the car of Ted Schmidt caught fire. The fire was extinguished before the firemen arrived but they assisted in putting out a small fire in the seat cushions.

50 Years Ago: From the March 26, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

Multi-million dollar recreation-entertainment center to open in Twin Cities in spring of ’76

A multi-million dollar family entertainment center called “Valleyfair” will open in the Twin Cities in Spring, 1975, announced David C. Sherman, president of the corporation developing the recreation complex.

Sherman said the family entertainment center will encompass 240 acres and its development will cost nearly 15 million dollars. It will provide residents of the Twin Cities and Upper Midwest with a wide variety of entertainment attractions, foremost among which will be the Valleyfair “theme park.”

The park will feature over 50 rides, entertainment attractions, theatrical shows and exhibits. Among the rides will be the largest and fastest roller coaster in the Upper Midwest…

25 Years Ago: From the March 23, 2000 Shakopee Valley News

ADC could add 1,000 jobs

The city of Shakopee and Scott County have given preliminary approval to a tax abatement plan to help ADC Telecommunications expand in the city with a 490,000-square-foot facility that would employ and additional 1,000 people within two years…

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150 Years Ago: From the March 18, 1875 Shakopee Argus

Those in need of cow bells and ear rings, need not apply to the County Board, but they should apply personally to the Commissioner from the second district. He is large hearted and liberal handed to the needy in that line.

125 Years Ago: From the March 15, 1900 Scott County Argus

Surveyor Simar and a crew are laying out a new block which lies on the line between Shakopee City and East Shakopee and between Third and Fourth streets, for the purpose of getting it squared up with the street lines and cutting out an alley through its middle. The block extends from the Eggert house to the McGrade corner, or a length of 600 feet.

125 Years Ago: From the March 16, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

Chas. Hartmann returned to this city again engaging in the butcher business at the old stand, the Central meat market. He traded with his brother-in-law George H. Ries who is now conducting a saloon business at New Prague. The patrons of the Central meat market will be pleased with the change. Charlie is a pleasant gentleman and will treat his customers cordially.

100 Years Ago: From the March 20, 1925 Shakopee Argus

The roller skating rink which has afforded a great deal of entertainment for the young folks of the city during Lent was moved Monday to Chaska.

100 Years Ago: From the March 19, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

Jacob Jeurissen, a prominent farmer of this vicinity, recently contracted for the erection of a new residence on his farm which is located between Shakopee and Chaska. The new dwelling will be a two-story structure, size 28×28. The Interior Lumber Co. of Shakopee will supply he material for the new building.

75 Years Ago: From the March 16, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

May Do Spring Training Here

Shakopee may be the spring training stie for the Wausau, Wis., Lumberjacks ball club, it was learned this week.

Bruno B. Haas, baseball great, now managing the Lumberjacks, has written here requesting the use of Shakopee’s ball park and seeking information on housing accommodations…

75 Years Ago: From the March 16, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Rubber Firm Is Locating Here

A rubber products manufacturing industry began moving their equipment into Shakopee this week after the Shakopee city council approved their rental of building space at the NYA camp area Tuesday.

Ralph R. Stark of the Stanark Rubber Company announced that moving of their heavy equipment would be well underway by the end of the week as much of their machinery is presently in storage in Shakopee and Chaska.

The firm, which employes 25 to 30 people, will discontinue their plant in Northeast Minneapolis and consolidate all their activities in Shakopee. The addition of the Stanark firm to the NYA area will make three industries operating there, the other two being Roto-Plow Co. and the Shakopee Foundry.

Plans include the eventual erection of a building in Shakopee to comprise 5000 square feet of floor space and measuring about 50 by 100 feet. Stark reported that the plans have been drawn, but that the firm use the NYA space for the present time…

50 Years Ago: From the March 19, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

City-county attempt to reach agreement on extension of County Road 17 past 11th Ave.

Shakopee’s common council grappled with three weighty problems Tuesday evening in nearly a five-hour session. On the agenda was County Road 17, purchase of NSP services to Valley Industrial Park and the new building program.

Two areas of concern highlighted the discussion of the County Road 17 project: extension of the project from 11th Avenue past the entrance of the new Junior High school and the extremely high cost of storm sewer.

Commissioner Dennis Hron appeared before the council and told that body that the Scott County Board would participate in the extension of County Road 17 if FAU (Federal Aid Urban) Funds were available.

City Doug Goriesky and Shakopee school superintendent Dr. Robert Mayer appeared before the county board some time ago explaining the necessity of the proposed extension.

The extension would, in effect, provide a left turn lane and slow moving traffic lane to accommodate bus traffic to and from the school building. At the time Goriesky and Mayer talked to the county Board, they were told the five-year road program had been set back one year because of lack of funds and that no new construction would take place in 1975, only maintenance…

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