Hancock County Memorial Hospital A team of health care professionals committed to the health and well-being of the families and communities we serve.
HOBO DAYS
111 TH ANNUAL NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTION AUG. 11-14, 2011 — BRITT, IOW A
BRITT MEDICAL CLINIC 641-843-5050
641-843-5000
GARNER MEDICAL CLINIC 641-923-2651 KANAWHA MEDICAL CLINIC 641-762-3696 WESLEY MEDICAL CLINIC 515-679-4285
Your Health - Our Care... A Lasting Partnership
May 25, 2011
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
Welcome to the 111th annual Hobo Convention
HOBO DAYS PARADE Saturday at 10 a.m. everyone can let their hobo spirit soar as they participate in the giant parade. Whether you’re part of this large grand parade or a spectator, the spirit of the day is sure to capture your mood. Marching bands, queens, business floats, children, adults and hobos all come down the streets in one long line and share the fun that only a hobo convention can provide.
HOBO MEMORIAL SERVICE The hobo cemetery in Evergreen Cemetery on the east edge of Britt is symbolic of the ties between the hobo and this community. The memorial area, dedicated in 1990, is the resting spot of many deceased convention hobos.
Hobo friends, relatives, American Legion members and others join convention-goers at this Friday morning service to pay homage to the hobo ways and the hobos who have caught the “westbound.” Last year, Preacher Steve was laid to rest in the hobo cemetery during the memorial ceremonies. He took his place among the other grave sites, including that of Cinderbox Cindy, Honor John, Hobo Joe, Cardboard, Hardrock Kid, Mountain Dew, Pennsylvania Kid, Slow Motion Shorty, Charlie Tuna, Iowa Bob, Lord Open Road, Hafey Zale, Connecticut Slim, Slim Jim, Texas Bob, Man Called John, Hobo Joe and others.
HOBO JUNGLE They’d hop the rails, ride awhile, then make camp just off the track. Jungle was the name of this campsite. Each year at the National Hobo Convention, hobos gather to share their stories, song and dance around a campfire by the tracks. They relive the old jungle days and open the celebration to all who want to join. Stew and coffee are prepared over the campfire and shared with friends and as the night comes to a close, all relax to share an evening of entertainment under the stars. Everyone is encouraged to sing
Enjoy your visit to the 111th National Hobo Convention
along or share a story. A visit to the convention isn’t complete without a trip to the jungle. The hobos also take their music and jungle atmosphere to Westview Care Center each year to entertain the residents and to spread a little good cheer.
KING AND QUEEN CORONATION The annual convention of the Local Tourist Union No. 63 originally was the time set aside to elect a hobo leader for the following year. The Local 63 has decreased in numbers over the years, but the tradition NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO of electing a king and queen from Each year, the community elects a king and queen of the the “hobo ranks” is still carried out through voting by crowd applause. hobos. Last year, Dante, left, and Double “B” were To win their title, hobos may enter- crowned. tain with song, dance or stories. Last year, Dante and Double “B” WHERE were crowned during the annual YOUR coronation ceremony in Britt’s City Park Saturday. As king and queen, IMAGE Dante, of Staples, Minn., and Double “B”, of Telford, Pa., were 3D Trophy & Awards MATTERS... expected to represent the hobo culPersonalized to fit your needs ture, the convention and the city of Britt over the year of their reign. Businesses, Schools, Clubs The pair succeeded 2009 royalty and Organizations... Inkman and Stray Cat. We do Embroidery, Spectators vote by applauding for Screen Printing their favorite candidate. For CONVENTION, see page 3.
MS-30494
Britt Area Chamber of Commerce
111th
MS-32009 MS-33017
(641) 843-3867 Located in the Cobbler Shoppe
2008 which increases patient safety and quality of care. In March 2011, HCMH began an expansion and renovation project north of the current facility. The first floor of the new addition will include an expanded rehabilitation services department that will provide outpatient physical therapy, diabetic education, cardiac and pulmonary rehab and a community fitness center. Imaging services will be enlarged to allow for additional services. The addition to the second floor of the hospital will allow for all private inpatient rooms. Tremendous community support for these projects has allowed HCMH to grow with the county and its medical needs.
OUTPATIENT SERVICES With almost 20,000 clinic visits last year, the hospital and clinics offer a broad range of services including radiology, laboratory and physical therapy. Visiting specialty physicians offer conven-
ient and expanded health care services for local residents in orthopedics, ear, nose and throat, neurology, urology, podiatry, cardiology and surgical services. Cataract surgery, outpatient surgery and many laparoscopic and arthroscopic procedures are available. Other hospital services that are available include massage therapy and nail care for hands and feet. The sleep disorder lab at HCMH is staffed and equipped to perform your sleep study. The results are linked directly to the sleep disorder lab at Mercy Medical Center – North Iowa. HCMH’s business health department offers health and safety services to local employers. The HCMH medical staff consists of John Boedeker, D.O.; Catherine Butler, M.D.; Lissa Holloway, PA-C; Julie Larson, ARNP; Ashlea McLeod, PA-C; Angela McGregor, ARNP; Jerry Nelson, M.D.; Kathryn Pottratz, ARNP; Jennifer Rosenmeyer, ARNP; and
PHOTO COURTESY OF HCMH
Hancock County Memorial Hospital, located in Britt, offers a variety of medical services to individuals. Gregg VanderWaerdt, PAC. HCMH is a progressive hospital committed to serving the area’s healthcare needs with quality personal care. For more information on HCMH services, visit www.hancockmemhospital.com.
Fenchel, Doster & Buck Attorneys at Law
Like the railroad, we have a long history with Britt
P.O. Box 63 Britt, IA
at the Cobbler Shoppe
North Iowa’s greatest resource is its people. Hancock County Memorial Hospital is dedicated to professional and quality healthcare for the people of Hancock County and the surrounding area. HCMH is a countyowned, tax-supported health services facility affiliated with the Mercy Health Network – North Iowa. The 25-bed critical access hospital and four primary care clinics are located in Britt, Garner, Kanawha and Wesley. As an affiliate with Mercy Health Network, HCMH is associated with one of the largest health care systems in North Iowa. The hospital and clinics offer up-to-date technology and equipment to provide quality patient care both now and for generations to come. Extensive renovations to the Britt Medical Clinic and the hospital emergency department were completed in 2008. A hospital-based electronic health record was implemented in September
Welcome to the 111th National Hobo Convention
Britt Area Chamber of Commerce
Souvenirs Available
Providing quality health care in a small-town setting
95 Main Ave. S. • Britt, IA • 641-843-3873
Welcomes you to the 111th Hobo Convention
Boekelman Grain Equipment, Paul & Amy Boekelman 765 250th St., Britt, IA 50423 • 641-843-3734
Darlene Weber, Owner 26 Main Ave. S., Britt 843-3225
May 25, 2011 • 19
MS-32022
MS-29515
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Britt’s annual National Hobo Convention offers a variety of exciting activities to residents and visitors alike. Learn about the history of the hobo at the Hobo Museum. Experience hobo culture at Britt’s unique Hobo Jungle. Browse antiques and sample the one-of-akind mulligan stew. Watch the giant parade or test athletic skills during the annual 5K/10K walk/run. There truly is something for everyone during Hobo Days. Following are some of the highlights of the celebration—
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
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2011 Hobo Guide
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Britt News-Tribune
Hobo symbols — a language all their own
CONVENTION: FROM PAGE 2
HOBO SOUVENIRS You are sure to want something to remember the experience of being part of Hobo Days, so be sure to get a souvenir while you’re here. The Hobo Museum and Gift Shop has a great selection of hobo poetry and books. Hobo poetry, hobo knots, tshirts, caps, cups, spoons, thimbles, postcards and posters are also available through the Chamber of Commerce office, located in the Cobbler Shoppe on Main Avenue.
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CRAFTS AND COLLECTABLES
GOLF CARS
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables will be held in conjunction with the convention this year, much to the pleasure of “treasure seekers”. On the
open streets, many conventioneers have a chance to shop the tables of the merchants. The market sets up Thursday and runs through Saturday night. Each year there are new exhibitors, as well as the favorites from years before selling handmade rugs, doll clothes, wood and shell items, miscellaneous glassware and antique dealers, hat-wear, jewelry and a variety of other items.
MULLIGAN STEW Saturday marks a wellknown highlight of the convention as the hobo community invites everyone to City Park for the annual king and queen coronation. At noon, more than 500 gallons of mulligan stew are served to those in attendance. The stew recipe is one that
BATTERIES, PARTS & FULL SERVICE Professional Mechanics on duty to service your golf car.
MILLER & SONS SALES & SERVICE “It’s the service after the sale that counts” DEALER INQUIRIES INVITED
2008 PRESIDENT’S AWARD-WINNING DEALERSHIP THIS AWARD IS BASED ON OUTSTANDING SALES & SERVICE WITH CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
MarveaMary’s
Organic & Natural Products Herbs, African Violets & Gifts for all ages
Homemade Pickles & Jelly HOURS: Tuesday-Friday ~ 9:30 AM-4 PM Saturday ~ 9:30 AM-12:30 PM Closed Sunday & Monday
63 Main Ave. South, Britt, Iowa 641-843-3570 MS-31094
MS-31505
(641) 843-3876 970 HWY. 18 EAST • BRITT, IOWA
PRITCHARD AUTO CO.
Giving back to our community for over 90+ years
641-843-3871
OPEN LATE FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS DURING HOBO DAYS
980 HWY 18 EAST • BRITT, IOWA
Stop in & get your next new or pre-owned vehicle from Pritchard Auto Co.
SIDEWALK SPECIALS ALL WEEK LONG!
MS-31104
Get your own copy of the 2010 Hobo Guide at the Britt News-Tribune today!
For the car enthusiast, don’t miss out on the classic car show. Twenty-eight classes of cars make up the annual show and whatever your favorite classic car may be, you’re sure to find a favorite here. See them all Sunday, Aug. 14 on Main Avenue. Also during the car show a craft show will be held in City Park. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair and visit for the afternoon and listen to the entertainment. Feel free to get up and dance if the mood strikes you.
ATHLETES IN ACTION
OTHER EVENTS Don’t forget to take in the fire lighting ceremony at the Jungle on Thursday, which marks the official start of the convention. Also, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the ladies tea, followed by an inspriring organ concert by Luther the Jet at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.
We Also Have T-shirts, Men’s & Women’s Clothing, Shoes, Sandals, & Handbags BRITT CITY COUNCIL - Front row from l - r: Curt Gast, Mayor David Mitchell and Gary Gelner. Back row: Mike Ostercamp, Bryan Aitchison, Doug Weiland and City Clerk Jeanie Purvis. Whether it’s taking in the many activities or visiting with hobos in the Hobo Jungle, Hobo Days provides a fun-filled weekend away from the rest of the world.
David Mitchell, Mayor of Britt Jeanie Purvis, City Clerk; Darcy Eisenman, Deputy Clerk
COBBLER SHOPPE
e
Th MS-29512
Enjoy your visit to Britt
The Hancock County Ag Museum opened its doors to the public in the summer of 2002. Making a big debut after a long effort, organizers are offering an facility designed to educate people, especially the younger generations, about the days of farming in early Iowa. The museum will be the site for hands-on learning. So take a step back into the past and revisit the days of old. Learn about the tools and machinery
CLASSIC CAR SHOW
For the athletic types and their supporters, the 5K and the 10K runs start Saturday at 7 a.m. A 5K walk will also be held for enthusiasts. Each year, hundreds of all ages participate in the event. The well-supervised and marked route takes runners through the early morning Britt area, as well as provides a tshirt to commemorate their effort.
WELCOME TO BRITT, HOME OF THE NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTION Stop In & Check Out Our Wide Selection of Chamber Hobo Day Souvenirs!
Britt, Iowa 641-843-4132 James Ave. South (1/2 mile)
A Vintage Mix of Charm & Cheer
AG MUSEUM
used to first farm the land in this area. The museum will be open from 1-4 p.m. Saturday during the convention.
Welcome To Britt, We’re Glad You’re Here!
Stop In & Check Out Our Showroom
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convention chefs have used for many years after gaining mulligan stew-making secrets from the real hobos of earlier conventions. This tradition—which started as a free meal for only the hobos—now gives everyone a taste of hobo grub.
May 25, 2011 • 3
• Marshall & Swift Agent • eBay Consignment
21 Main Avenue North •
(641) 843-3512 •
Britt, Iowa 50423
City Hall - 843-4433... Police - 843-3822... Hospital - 843-5000 MS-30492
2011 Hobo Guide
4 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
Britt News-Tribune
Museum offers a glimpse into life on the rails
BRITT: FROM PAGE 17
By Emilie Nelson Hobo Guide 2011 From a hobo’s artwork to worn out pairs of bib overalls and blue jeans hanging in display cases, there is plenty to be found in the Hobo Museum and Gift shop on Main Avenue. Located in the former Chief movie theater, the museum has been a main street attraction for 21 years, Hobo Foundation president Linda Hughes said. “It had been closed for quite a few years when the foundation bought it,” Hughes said. Each item in the museum tells its own unique story of the life and hardships experienced by the men and women who rode the rails. Over the years, many true hobos and hobos at heart have left their items to the foundation to be displayed in the museum. Each hobo has their own trademark, and many of those can also be seen in the museum. “Most items here have
been donated when a hobo has passed away and others donated by the hobos themselves,” Hughes said. “Some of them don’t have homes of their own; they consider Britt their home. The museum is their pride and joy and they want their things to be here.” One of those hobos was John Mislen, better known as Hard Rock Kid. Mislen rode the rails across Iowa and lived the life of a true hobo. He died in August 1977 in Ogden while making his way to Britt for the annual Hobo Convention. All of his belongings, including a tattered pair of overalls, his last pack of cigarettes, a can of hobo soup and the backpack he kept them in can be found in the first display case inside the museum doors. A handmade postcard from Vietnam War soldiers casting their votes for Hard Rock Kid as hobo king postmarked 1967 is also on display in the case. Another case displays a denim patch coat and hat made by Texas Madman. “He made the coat on a
boxcar,” Hughes said. “He’d lay on it on the floor to see what he needed to add to make it fit him.” Texas Madman is still alive today, but, there can be consequences to living life on the rails. “He ran into a little trouble with the law,” Hughes said. “He’s serving his time now.” Another case is dedicated to famed hobo and six-time hobo king Maurice “Steamtrain Maury” Graham. Steamtrain Maury was captivated by life on the rails, but also had a wife and two daughters. He once left a note on the family’s kitchen table which read “gone fishing,” not to return for more than nine years. “When he did come home, he’d have to stay in the garage,” Hughes said. “But, no matter where he went, he always provided for his daughters, and still, they thought the world of him.” With white hair and a long beard resembling Santa Claus, Hughes said Steamtrain Maury was a
HOBO GUIDE PHOTO BY EMILIE NELSON
Memorabilia from hobos both alive and gone are on display in Britt’s National Hobo Museum.
HOBO MUSEUM & GIFT SHOP
favorite among fellow hobos and children. “He was everybody’s favorite,” she said. “He visited schools, kept the children on the straight and narrow, and played
OPEN MON-FRI 10 AM TO 5 PM MEMORIAL DAY TO AUG. 19, 2011 OR BY APPT.
Admission $3
For MUSEUM, see page 6.
old-time music and ice cream socials. The Armstrong museum is open to the public 1:30 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday Memorial Day through Labor Day. The museum is open during the Hobo Convention. Open for tours by appt. The Ag Museum, open the Saturday of Hobo Days from 1-4 p.m., has been an ongoing effort by a local dedicated group of citizens interested in seeing the past brought to the people in an effort to educate everyone about the history of rural Iowa. Collecting, preserving and exhibiting antique farm machines, equipment, tools and memorabilia is the goal. The Hobo Museum, housing more than a century of hobo memorabilia, is a must-see during any visit to Britt. True to the hobo way, the museum offers a look into the lives of hobos. It’s located right downtown for easy access.
AREA RECREATION Britt has an excellent
2011 Hobo Guide golf course on its north edge and is within 15 miles of three other very challenging nine hole courses. Summer fun awaits you, especially at the new aquatic center with slide in the heart of Britt. For those who enjoy swimming, boating and fishing in Iowa’s lakes, Crystal Lake is an easy 10 mile drive north of Britt and Eldred Sherwood Park is only 24 miles southeast of Britt. Both areas offer camping facilities and playground equipment. Pilot Knob State Park, Iowa’s second-highest point, has camping facilities, a fishing pond and several miles of hiking trails. It is located about 25 miles from Britt, four miles east of Forest City. Since 1995, racing enthusiasts have enjoyed the finest regional stock car racing action at the Hancock County Speedway, located adjacent to the fairgrounds southeast of Britt. Weekly races are held on Thursday nights beginning in late spring and continuing through Labor Day. This small, rural Iowa
town has so much to offer, and for that reason it is easy to see why hobos made Britt their stopping place so many years ago and why the friendship between the residents and the hobos continues to thrive to this day.
BRITT CITY PARKS For a small community, Britt works to maintain a big recreational base for residents and visitors. The parks across from the high school offer a tennis court, sand volleyball court, playground equipment, picnic tables, grills, shelter house and room to run. Centennial Park just off Highway 18 is a newer park with all of the above features as well as a ball diamond. City Park in Britt is full of activity during the hobo convention. After the convention it is a favorite place for outdoor basketball games, roller blading and a craft show.
WEST HANCOCK SCHOOLS A progressive and forward-thinking school
641-843-4483
Look at our you tube video ~ www.youtube.com National Hobo Convention Site
HUNT’S ELECTRIC, LLC
Welcome to
the 111th National Hobo Convention “Big & Small, We Have Them All”
MCNEESE TIRE
Hobo Foundation
641-843-4552
Serving Your electrical needs Hobo Days and Always...
Keeping Hobo History Alive Other Hobo Sites: Hobo Cemetery, Burial Site of the Unknown Hobo, Hobo Time Capsule, Queens Garden, Engraved Brick Walkway
MS-30491
CARS & TRUCKS FARM EQUIPMENT DUALS & HUBS
2430 Kent Avenue • Britt, Iowa 50423
MS-32020
MS-31506
MS-30132
120 Main Ave. N. Britt, Iowa
district has remained an integral part of the educational backbone of Britt. A new state-of-the-art elementary school opened just a few years ago in Britt, adjacent to the high school. A strong sports background, state and district titles, an exemplary music and speech program and an even stronger academic base make this a competitive district.
Steinberg Crafts
MS-29506
Central Financial Group
NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO
There is plenty to do in Britt during the summer and year-round. During Hobo Days, the Hancock County Speedway hosts a special event called “Night of 1,000 Stars.”
Bus Tours Welcome Located in the Old Chief Theatre 51 Main Ave. S. • 641-843-9104 www.hobo.com
Jackets • Shirts • Caps Purses • Jewelry
May 25, 2011 • 17
Phyllis & Albert Steinberg 690 6th St. SW, Britt, IA 50423 Home – 641-843-3573 Cell – 641-430-8646 phalstei@ncn.net Specializing in: Creative Rag Rugs, Handmade Crafts, Custom Long Arm Quilting Sewing & Alterations Zipper Repair Open By Appointment
We Service What We Sell! Emergency Service Available
Teddy Bear Buddies “Buddies Forever”
641-843-3536 1 1/2 Miles West of Britt - 725 Hwy. 18 • Britt, Iowa Mon.-Fri. 8 AM-5:00 PM Sat. by appt. MS-32029
2011 Hobo Guide
16 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
Experience the city of Britt during Hobo Days
Hobo Days hits Web on YouTube
More than a century of small-town living and friendly faces makes Britt a place to come home to. For history buffs, the town actually dates back to about 1870 when a depot was built on the south side of the railroad tracks going through the area. This depot was named Britt in honor of one of the railroad employees. Britt became an official town in 1878. At that time, it consisted of 14 blocks. From that small and humble beginning came a town both locals and hobos have come to call home. Every town has history rich in tradition and hometown values. For the members of this small Iowa community, a sense of pride and heritage is what makes the annual hobo gathering a one-ofa-kind event. It’s yet another example of how the residents of this progressive little town and those who live in this county work together to improve the lives of everyone around them.
By Emilie Nelson Hobo Guide 2011
A GROWING COMMUNITY Shoppers from Britt and the surrounding area delight in all the local shops that Britt has to offer. From restaurants with hometown cooking to specialty shops, there are businesses in Britt to meet just about every need and to provide quality, small-town service — all without the hassles of big-town crowds and driving. Small business owners and large industry have worked together to make sure the community continues to thrive and be attractive to newcomers and visitors, while continuing to service the needs of residents. Britt Industrial Development Corporation (BIDCO) was organized in 1957 with the purpose of advancing the community of Britt by attracting industry. A community group is currently in the midst of a revitalization effort in Britt to enhance our special city. Several groups
are currently involved in several projects designed to make Britt an even better place to stop, shop and live. When Hobo Days rolls around, everyone gets involved with the celebration, including Britt businesses. Britt has a brand new state-of-the-art aquatic center, laundromat, convenience stores, two full service banks, great restaurants, a shoe store, a hardware store, several specialty gift stores, a florist, a grocery store, a pharmacy, a car dealership, the only tow trucks NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO in Hancock County and Britt offers a wealth of just about everything in attractions for visitors between.
including the LarsonBRITT’S OWN MUSEUMS Armstrong House, a museum rich with area history. Britt offers much in the The museum is open for way of old-time Iowa tours during Hobo Days. country life when taking in the Armstrong House Museum and the Hancock County Ag Museum, which houses a fantastic array of old-fashioned and antique farm equipment. Volunteers spend countless hours taking
For BRITT, see page 17.
Alzheimer’s Care ● Short and Long-Term Care ● 24-Hour Skilled Care ● Medicare/Medicaid Certified
445 8th Ave. SW. Britt, IA 50423 641-843-3835 www.abcmcorp.com MS-31119
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WELCOME TO BRITT, HOME OF THE 111TH HOBO CONVENTION! Enjoy your stay & make plans to return next year!
News Tribune PO Box 38 • Britt, Iowa MS-31120
888-273-5553
and strategized on the best ways to promote their community and its annual celebration. “Each team made their own video for Linda to select,” said Marcy Maylan, who helped produce the runner-up video. As with any assignment, DeHart said it came with deadlines and specific expectations over the two month production time. “We had a timeline of when to have things laid out,” he said. “And we had For COMMERCIAL, see page 7.
HOBO GUIDE PHOTO BY EMILIE NELSON
West Hancock High School senior Josh Christians prepares to watch the Hobo Days commercial he helped produce on the video website YouTube.
30th Annual
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care of both of these great museums and their historic artifacts. During the summer, the Armstrong House provides the backdrop for
REHAB-TO-HOME CARE ●
Highlights of the National Hobo Convention can now be seen worldwide through an online commercial produced by students at West Hancock High School. Students in Robin Kudej’s general business class were contacted by Hobo foundation president Linda Hughes to help create and update publicity for the annual event, which draws in hobos from across the country. “Linda wanted to get
the word out and came to us,” said Andrew DeHart, a student in the class. To really get into true hobo spirit, the class toured Britt’s National Hobo Museum to get a better understanding of the history of the convention and collected photos and video clips from past events to begin creating a montage of all that takes place during the four day convention. After completing the initial research, the class divided into two teams for an “Apprentice” like competition among the class. Both teams researched
May 25, 2011 • 5
Welcome to the 111th National Hobo Convention!
2011 Britt Draft Horse Show Sept. 2nd, 3rd & 4th Hancock County Fairgrounds, Britt, Iowa One Of The Largest Draft Horse Hitch Shows in North America
Hours: Mon – Fri 5:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Sat. 5:30 – 10:30 a.m. Sun. – 7 a.m. – noon
Extended Hours Hobo Week! We accept all major credit cards
641-843-3840
72 Main Avenue S.
MS-30490
Britt, Iowa
Contact: For Show Infoft Horse The Britt Dra Association
Featuring . . .
t, IA 50423
Box 312, Brit
4376 4181, 641-843Call 641-84389 25 8or 515-92
om
fthorseshow.c
www.brittdra MS-33015
The grandstand shows, held Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. Gates open each morning at 7:00 a.m.
18 of the Finest Six-Horse Draft Hitches in the U. S. and Canada *Lunch On the Grounds *Commercial Buildings *Commemorative Buckles *Camping Available
2011 Hobo Guide
6 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune MUSEUM: FROM PAGE 4
HOBO GUIDE PHOTOS BY EMILIE NELSON
Many hobos are represented in Britt’s National Hobo Museum. Among those with memorabilia on display are Steamtrain Maury, Hard Rock Kid, Pennsylvania Kid and Frisco Jack. Many items were donated to the museum by the individuals themselves.
Santa a few times He had a few famous friends, and was a close friend of Dolly Parton.” A hat made famous by Pennsylvania Kid was given to the museum just a few years ago. The tall hat filled with feathers and Hobo Days buttons was once thought to be lost after his death, but was brought to Britt when his caretaker died about three years ago. “We wanted that hat, but we didn’t know what had happened to it,” Hughes said. “(Pennsylvania Kid) always went to Burlington and lived in the basement of a barbershop. When he died everything stayed there. When the barber died, his caretaker inherited everything the barber had, including Pennsylvania’s things. When she found the hat, she knew right where to bring it.” “The hat is priceless, he must have been in every newspaper with that hat,” Hughes said. “That hat was the meaning of Hobo Days and anyone who remembers it will love to see it.”
We At:
Welcome You To Britt and To The National Hobo Convention
Doll Distributing MS-36086
Spencer, Iowa
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
Hobo royalty from years past Kings 1900 Charles Noe 1933-35 Hairbreadth Harry 1936 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1937-38 King David I 1939 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1940-45 Hobo Ben Benson 1946 Skeet Simmons 1947 Hiway Johnny Weaver 1948 Hobo Ben Benson 1949 Cannonball Eddie 1950 Hobo Ben Benson 1951 Cannonball Eddie 1952 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1953 Hobo Ben Benson 1954-55 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1956 Hobo Ben Benson 1957 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1958 Arizona Bill 1959 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1960-61 King David I 1962 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1963 Pennsylvania Kid Wilson 1964 Beef Steak Charlie 1965 Hard Rock Kid 1966 Pennsylvania Kid 1967 Hard Rock Kid 1968 Pennsylvania Kid 1969 Slow Motion Shorty 1970 Hard Rock Kid 1971 Pennsylvania Kid 1972 Hard Rock Kid 1973 Steamtrain Maury 1974 Slow Motion Shorty 1975 Hard Rock Kid 1976 Steamtrain Maury 1977 Sparky Smith 1978 Steamtrain Maury 1979 Steamtrain Maury 1980 Sparky Smith 1981 Steamtrain Maury 1982 Hobo Bill Mainer 1983 Mountain Dew 1984 Fry Pan Jack 1985 Frisco Jack 1986 Ramblin' Rudy 1987 Alabama Hobo 1988 Fishbones 1989 El Paso Kid 1990 Songbird McCue 1991 Ohio Ned 1992 Roadhog USA 1993 Iowa Blackie 1994 Sidedoor Pullman Kid 1995 Luther the Jet 1996 Liberty Justice 1997 Frog 1998 New York Slim 1999 Preacher Steve 2000 Bo Grump 2001 Grandpa Dudley 2002 Redbird Express 2003 Hobo Spike 2004 Adman 2005 Iron Horse Brad 2006 Iowegian Rick 2007 Tuck 2008 Stretch 2009 Inkman 2010 Dante
Queens
Polly Ellen Pep Polly Ellen Pep Polly Ellen Pep Box Car Myrtle Box Car Myrtle Sylvia Davis Sylvia Davis Sylvia Davis Box Car Betty Link
Box Car Betty Link Box Car Betty Link
Box Car Myrtle Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Adventurer Jan LuAnn Uhden Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Cinderbox Cindy Hobo Lump Longlooker Mic Hobo Lump Slo Freight Ben Longlooker Mic Minneapolis Jewel Hobo Lump Would-be hobo Slo Freight Ben Gypsy Moon Minneapolis Jewel Connecticut Shorty Blue Moon New York Maggie Cinderbox Cindy Come On Pat Minneapolis Jewel Cinders Slo Freight Ben M.A.D. Mary Derail Nightingale Mama Jo Sunrise Half Track Ms. Charlotte Lady Sonshine Connecticut Tootsie Stray Cat Double “B”
May 25, 2011 • 15
And a little more hobo trivia... ■ A-No. 1 died in 1944 and is buried in a small town in Pennsylvania called Cambridge Springs. ■ Slo-Motion Shorty always said, “A Hobo will never starve. You can get cracked eggs from the hatcheries, day-old bread from the bakeries and soup bones from the little grocery stores.” ■ Slow Motion Shorty and Steamtrain Maury traveled together for 12 years
■ Slo Motion Shorty was on the road for 33 years. After he retired from the road, he would take a short trip down to the rail yards perhaps to climb aboard a boxcar and sleep for the night.. ■ Did you know that the original name of the Britt Hobo was Weary Willie, not Onion Cotton. The logo that appears in the 1900 Britt paper was taken from the official convention announcement and is
dated back to 1897 or within a year of that. ■ Mt. Dew was born on Sept. 1, 1922. He got his moniker from drinking the soda pop Mt. Dew. ■ Mt. Dew served in the Army Air Corps during WWII returned to the United States and took up the lifestyle of a rare breed — the hobo. ■ Mt. Dew rode the rails for over 40 years.
Welcome to our 111th Annual Hobo Convention
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■ Fry Pan Jack was born in 1912. He hoboed for more than 57 years. He got his moniker from carrying his own frying pan. ■ Fry Pan Jack was the first hobo that Preacher Steve ever met. ■ Hood River Blackie tried to always find an empty boxcar at the front of the train or at the rear of the train because wrecks were usually in the middle of the train.
2011 Hobo Guide
14 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
Bet you didn’t know.... ■ In 1936 Scoopshovel Scotty was a world traveler of land and sea. He was given the honor to cook the soup at the Hobo Jungle that year. ■ In 1939 Scoopshovel Scotty was elected king of the hobos even though he admitted to being a bum.
NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO
Hobos and hobos-at-heart take a moment to remember those who caught the westbound during a special memorial service held annually during Hobo Days.
■ In 1955 Scoopshovel Scotty was elected King of the Hobos. Ben Benson refused to attend
the hobo convention that year because he didn't like having Scoopshovel Scotty as head of the hobo world. ■ Road Hog USA was born on Nov. 26, 1940, and was elected king of the hobos in 1992. ■ In 1997, Road Hog stated in a letter that he had no kinfolk and that the only family he has is the hobo family.
BEGINNING: FROM PAGE 13 tees. The novelty of the convention appealed to newspaper reporters everywhere and everyone talked it up. Everyone joked about the event— except the promoters. The day finally arrived with suitable banners floating in the breeze. Strung across the street from the Way-Healy building was a s i g n — H o b o Headquarters. Bailey, not to be outdone, announced that his office was Hobo
Hindquarters. Early in the morning a large delegation from Chicago arrived with Cotton and Noe. The Clear Lake band and a large crowd of the fraternity gathered up en route. The newspaper reporters held a meeting in a room at the Allison Hotel. They had been assigned to the convention and told to take the matter seriously, but had come to believe that it was
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a burlesque; however, they decided to play the game to the end, resulting in long articles, cartoons and other parodies, which appeared in dailies from San Francisco to Boston. In the evening a convention was held by a campfire at the fairgrounds at which an election elevated Admiral Dewey to the presidency and Philip Red to the vice presidency of Tourist Union No. 63.
SO
LD
■ A-No.1 rambled from coast to coast with the the famous writer Jack London, whose moniker was "Sailor Jack".
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WELCOME TO BRITT! NEWS-TRIBUNE PHOTO
TO GET ON THE RIGHT TRACK FINANCIALLY...VISIT WITH YOUR FRIENDS AT
Serenity, a Hobo gospel group from Maine, perform by the Jungle campfire during the 2010 convention.
Your Hometown Employee-Owned Bank
The Hobo Committee
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Welcomes you to the 111th National Hobo Convention 641-843-9104, hobo.com For a Fun Filled Family Weekend. Check out the Schedule of Events.
Open Sat. & Sun. 1:30-4 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day
The Hobo Committee is a group of Britt citizens working towards the Betterment of the National Hobo Convention
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were placed online, Hughes has received some correspondence inquiring about the celebration. “I’ve heard from a few people in the Hollywood area, and the History Channel,” said Hughes. “The History Channel isn’t able to come, but it is still a big thing to know that people out there have heard of this; and all because of a You Tube commercial.”
For MORE TRIVIA, see page 15.
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rough drafts like any assignment.” Each team gathered footage from past conventions, added audio and created their own commercial videos capturing the food, artwork, parades and other festivities that can be found at the 2011 convention, and compiled them into one minute commercials complete with music. Since the commercials
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A flower by any other name... A variety of flowers currently are planted in the Queen’s Garden next to Mary Jo’s Hobo House. Following is a list of the different types of flowers that are in the garden following the 2009 convention and which hobo queen each flower represents—
May 25, 2011 • 7
Heartland Diner
MS-30163
must have guaranteed that their Hobo Convention would go over big in Britt, for Noe agreed to bring the convention to Britt in 1900. With this important step out of the way, the real promotion work began. Bailey, a nationally known humorist and ardent conventioneer, assumed the publicity end of the promotion and various other men took positions on other commit-
■ The real name of ANo.1 was Leon Livingston. He is most famous for leaving his moniker on fence posts, store fronts and in train yards.
2011 Hobo Guide
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2010 Hobo Guide
8 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Brick project is completed in dowtown Britt By Emilie Nelson Hobo Guide 2011
HOBO GUIDE PHOTO BY EMILIE NELSON
An engraved brick walkway was completed just north of Mary Jo’s Hobo House in Britt following the 2010 convention. It honors both hobos and those faithful to the celebration.
Visitors to the annual Hobo Convention in Britt will have a new spot to stop and enjoy the outdoors when they come to town in August. A new walkway constructed of engraved bricks just north of Mary Jo’s Hobo House on Main Avenue was completed in the months following the 2010 convention and leads visitors on a stroll through a small park honoring hobos past and present. Hobo Foundation president Linda Hughes said portions of the project
were more than 10 years in the making. “We started selling bricks in 2000,” said Hughes. “There were supposed to be in the new museum, but when that project came to an end we decided that if we were allowed, we’d use them to put in a walkway.” The walkway project was given life when Mary Jo Hughes and Connecticut Shorty allowed it to be placed on their land last fall. The area previously only housed a small flower garden The winding brick path features names of donors
How Hobo Days began
and also honors the memory of hobos who were regular attendees of the convention who have since passed. A brick sitting wall gives visitors an opportunity to rest a little and take in the colors of the queen’s gardens, a flower garden honoring past hobo queens and the serenity garden honoring the Serenity Sisters, a musical group which provides entertainment at the convention every year. “This is one way to honor our queens,” Hughes said. “The queens NEWS-TRIBUNE PHOTO
For WALKWAY, see page 12.
Although the National Hobo Convention officially begins on a Thursday, many hobos show up as early as Monday, the day they gather for the traditional early arrivals photo.
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Britt’s Hobo Day of 1900 were B. C. Way of Mason City and Frank Morrow of Garner. Way and Potter had read in a Chicago paper that Tourist Union No. 63 had elected as officers Onion Cotton, of Danville, Ill., and Grand Head Pipe Charles F. Noe of Sycamore, Ill. They wrote Noe and invited him to bring the Hobo Convention to Britt in 1900. Noe wrote that he would come out to Britt and look the ground over, providing Way and Potter would defray his expens-
Britt - (641) 843-4411 • Woden - (641) 926-5333 www.fsb-britt.com
For BEGINNING, see page 14.
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es, which they agreed to do. Grand Head Pipe Noe arrived in Britt in the autumn of 1899 and was met at the Milwaukee depot by Way and Potter. After they dined and wined the Grand Head Pipe they called in an attorney, W. E. Bradford, to guide the proceedings and see that they were legal. They also invited Phil Reed, a newspaperman connected with the Britt News. The four men
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The fourth annual convention of Tourist Union No. 63—more commonly known as the Hobo Convention—occurred on Aug. 22, 1900, in Britt. Britt celebrates this anniversary each year. The convention of Aug. 22, 1900, came about after much work on the part of Thos A. Way, T. A. Potter, and W. E. Bradford, three energetic men of Britt, who proposed to do something different to show the world that Britt was a lively little town capable of doing anything that larger cities could do. Other persons who had a big part in
WELCOME TO BRITT
Live in Britt
Fine Recreational Facilities including Nine Hole Golf Course
May 25, 2011 • 13
Open Saturday, August 13th: 1 PM - 4 PM
BRITT DRAFT HORSE SHOW Open Saturday, & Sunday, Sept. 3rd & 4th OTHERWISE OPEN BY APPOINTMENT MAY THRU SEPTEMBER Call 641-843-4362 or 641-843-3295
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12 • May 25, 2011
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
May 25, 2011 • 9
Saying farewell to a friend A FEW MEMORIES FROM THE 110TH HOBO CONVENTION
WALKWAY: FROM PAGE 8 are never really honored, they always came in second to the kings.” The garden has been well used this spring, Hughes said. On a nice day, it’s not unusual to see local people enjoying the garden, relaxing on the benches or having lunch on the sitting wall. The garden and walkway were also beautified with help from a few local people. Todd and Jennifer Hughes, owners of the
Flower Cart, landscaped the area and local farmer,Tim Grove donated three large rocks which line the path. Hughes said the Hobo Foundation plans to expand the walkway to the south and will be selling additional brick pavers in the future. “It’s great new addition to what we already have,” Hughes said. “We need to have new attractions for the tourists.”
Former hobo queen recalls fond memories of Iowa Blackie The first year my husband, Dennis (a.k.a. Hobo Santa) and I came to Hobo Days in Britt, we had no idea what to expect other than it was a festival. We were downtown by the gazebo sitting in lawn chairs when a man carrying a large duffle bag, wearing overalls and sporting scraggly hair and beard sat down near us. He stated, “Lady, will you watch my stuff while I do an errand?” I had no idea who he was but said I would. He thanked me when he returned. He then engaged us in chit-chat and introduced himself as Iowa Blackie. As soon as he learned this was our first Hobo Days he invited us to the Hobo Museum to give us a tour, which we accepted. Iowa Blackie had such excitement in his blue eyes as he would point to a photo and then tell us a story about the photo. Upon our first visit to Britt we saw numerous people there but only Iowa Blackie and Texas Madman invited us to join in and see things such as the museum, the parade, the hobo cemetery and the Hobo Jungle. They were both true ambassadors, welcoming two strangers who felt out of place at a festival and didn't know what to do other than go to the craft and flea market tents. We returned the following year. Iowa Blackie spotted me and came over to greet me. That first year we seemed to have bonded. Six years later, I was elected National Hobo Queen. Iowa Blackie congratulated me with a big hug. As hobo queen, I
NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTOS AND COURTESY OF JO LECOUNT
Richard “Iowa Blackie” Gage was a familiar face around Britt during the National Hobo Convention. He often could be found in City Park during the king and queen coronation, top right, selling his poetry. He also enjoyed dancing at J & D Hob Nob with Connecticut Shorty, below right. decided to correspond with everyone on the hobo directory including Iowa Blackie. This started a "pen-pal" correspondence between Iowa Blackie and me. I received my last postcard from Iowa Blackie in January 2011. I will miss his postcards. Iowa Blackie amazed me with how much information he could write on his postcards. He always addressed them with not just my address but the township included in the address. Truthfully, I didn't know my township until I started getting mail from him. His writing was so small on his postcards I had to get a magnifying glass to read them. It was always a joy to receive mail from Iowa Blackie. Several of my postcards were rubber-
stamped with “Iowa Blackie for President.” On Saturday evening of the convention during ladies night at the Hob Nob bar, we were joined by Iowa Blackie. He enjoyed kicking up his heels, especially when dancing with Connecticut Shorty. He had such a good time and so did all the ladies. In 2009, Dennis and I moved to Homosassa, Fla. At Hobo Days that year we said our goodbyes to Iowa Blackie. We explained to him and the hobo family it was likely to be our last visit to Britt for a long time. Once again he gave me a hug as he said goodbye. It won't be the same for those at Hobo Days 2011 to not see Iowa Blackie rubber-tramping to Britt on his motorcycle and sitting near the gazebo, writing in his
book or selling his poetry or calendars. Rest in peace, dear friend.
“Mama Jo” LeCount 2003 Hobo Queen Richard “Iowa Blackie” Gage died in his home on Feb. 24. He was 62. Iowa Blackie, the name he was given in the 1970s by a group of hobos while in Hampton, was a regular
visitor to the National Hobo Convention. He supported himself by working wherever he could, and selling books of his collected works of poetry detailing his life as a hobo. He began to chronicle his travels in 1987. In 1989, he met a volunteer at an Iowa City shelter who was so amazed by the hobo’s poetry that he took Iowa Blackie to the
University of Iowa computer lab and helped him assemble his first book of collected poetry and prose. His work is also included in the book “One More Train to Ride: the Underground World of Modern American Hoboes,” by Cliff Williams, endorsed by radio personality Garrison Keillor. Iowa Blackie was elected Hobo King in 1993.
2011 Hobo Guide
10 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
May 25, 2011 • 11
National Hobo Convention schedule & map 2011 Hobo Convention schedule — Aug. 11 - 14 The Hobo Jungle will be open to public throughout the convention. The Hobo Museum and Gift Shop will be open throughout the week of Hobo Days. Postage stamp cancellation at the Britt Post Office will be on Aug. 11. Monday, Aug. 8 9 a.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 9 2 p.m. 6 p.m.
11 a.m.- 6 p.m. 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. 11:30 a.m. Noon Noon Noon, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 3 p.m.- 4 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m.- 7 p.m.
9 7
Hobo Park tour with Connecticut Shorty, lot north of Mary Jo’s Hobo House * tour will be held each day through Thursday, Aug. 11
Evergreen Cemetery
2
4
Hobo bingo, Westview Care Center Bowling with the hobos, Sidetrack Lanes
Thursday, Aug. 11
Friday, Aug. 12 All Day 9 a.m. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. 1 p.m. 2:30 p.m.
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables set up and begin sales Hobo Museum & Gift Shop open daily throughout convention Hobo rummage sale, Hobo Museum Book signing and presentation by Connecticut Shorty, Britt Public Library Hobo SLC’s Kiddie Parade, in front of Hobo Museum The Chuck Baurer Band, City Park gazebo Miss Britt/Little Miss Britt contest, City Park gazebo Official lighting of the jungle fire at Hobo Jungle / entertainment begins “Night of 1,000 Stars” races at Hancock County Speedway Hobo Cemetery tour, Evergreen Cemetery
6 p.m.-8 p.m. 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m.
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables Hobo memorial service at Evergreen Cemetery Hobo art gallery by Leanne Castillo – Municipal Building Ladies tea (train theme), St. Patrick’s Catholic Church “Luther the Jet” organ concert at St Patricks Catholic Church *poetry in the Hobo Jungle will immediately follow the concert Poetry with Jerry Wellik and Frank Kazemek, Queen’s Garden north of Hobo House Inflatables open, Main Avenue Poetry with Jerry and Frank, Hobo Jungle Britt/West Hancock alumni banquet - social hour, West Hancock Elementary School Britt Idol, City Park gazebo Doc Anderson’s Medicine Show, Main Avenue Alumni banquet, West Hancock Elementary School Entertainer Chuck Williams, in front of Hobo Museum Hobo entertainment at Hobo Jungle Beer garden opens with music by Vent
Saturday, Aug. 13 All Day All Day 7 a.m. 10 a.m.
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables Shuttle service will run between various attractions Annual 5K/10K Walk/Run, West Hancock High School Giant parade
4 p.m. 5 p.m.-8 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.
6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m.
10 11 3 5 West Hancock High/ Elem. School
9 a.m. 10a.m.- 2 p.m. 1 p.m.-4 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 14 8 a.m. 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.
8 12
8 a.m.- 1 p.m. 1:30- 4 p.m.
*Hobo Museum opens when parade ends *Inflatables open when parade ends Hobo art gallery by Leanne Castillo – Municipal Building Armstrong House open for tours Basketball tournament, uptown Britt Free mulligan stew in City Park Smiley Train, Main Avenue Doc Anderson’s Medicine Show, Main Avenue Hobo king and queen coronation in City Park Pie-eating contest, North Main Avenue Hancock County Ag Museum open for tours, fairgrounds Hobo games, Main Avenue Poetry with Jerry and Frank, City Park gazebo Tina Wald book signing, Hobo Museum Kid Power pedal tractor pull, location to be announced Britt Has Talent, City Park gazebo Polka mass, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church First annual Hobo Days BBQ Cook-off, Main Avenue *judging will be held at 5:30 p.m. Entertainer Chuck Williams, in front of Hobo Museum Hobo entertainment at Hobo Jungle Beer garden opens with music Luther the Jet to play organ during mass, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church Classic car show, Main Avenue Craft show in the park with music by Malek’s Fishermen *bring your own lawn chairs Omelet breakfast, Britt Municipal Building Homemade pie and ice cream social, City Park
Convention is held annually the second weekend in August.
6
LOCATION OF EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS
1
1. Hancock County Fairgrounds - Ag Museum - Hancock County Speedway 2. Hobo Jungle 3. City Park - Britt Municipal Building 4. Evergreen Cemetery - Hobo Memorial 5. West Hancock High/Elementary School 6. Westview Care Center
7. Centennial Park 8. Larson-Armstrong House 9. Sidetrack Lanes 10. Mary Jo’s Hobo House - Queen’s Garden 11. Hobo Museum 12. St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
* Streets in bold represent the parade route
2011 Hobo Guide
10 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
May 25, 2011 • 11
National Hobo Convention schedule & map 2011 Hobo Convention schedule — Aug. 11 - 14 The Hobo Jungle will be open to public throughout the convention. The Hobo Museum and Gift Shop will be open throughout the week of Hobo Days. Postage stamp cancellation at the Britt Post Office will be on Aug. 11. Monday, Aug. 8 9 a.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 9 2 p.m. 6 p.m.
11 a.m.- 6 p.m. 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. 11:30 a.m. Noon Noon Noon, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m. 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 3 p.m.- 4 p.m. 3:30 p.m. 4 p.m.- 6 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m.- 7 p.m.
9 7
Hobo Park tour with Connecticut Shorty, lot north of Mary Jo’s Hobo House * tour will be held each day through Thursday, Aug. 11
Evergreen Cemetery
2
4
Hobo bingo, Westview Care Center Bowling with the hobos, Sidetrack Lanes
Thursday, Aug. 11
Friday, Aug. 12 All Day 9 a.m. 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. 1 p.m. 2:30 p.m.
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables set up and begin sales Hobo Museum & Gift Shop open daily throughout convention Hobo rummage sale, Hobo Museum Book signing and presentation by Connecticut Shorty, Britt Public Library Hobo SLC’s Kiddie Parade, in front of Hobo Museum The Chuck Baurer Band, City Park gazebo Miss Britt/Little Miss Britt contest, City Park gazebo Official lighting of the jungle fire at Hobo Jungle / entertainment begins “Night of 1,000 Stars” races at Hancock County Speedway Hobo Cemetery tour, Evergreen Cemetery
6 p.m.-8 p.m. 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m.
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables Hobo memorial service at Evergreen Cemetery Hobo art gallery by Leanne Castillo – Municipal Building Ladies tea (train theme), St. Patrick’s Catholic Church “Luther the Jet” organ concert at St Patricks Catholic Church *poetry in the Hobo Jungle will immediately follow the concert Poetry with Jerry Wellik and Frank Kazemek, Queen’s Garden north of Hobo House Inflatables open, Main Avenue Poetry with Jerry and Frank, Hobo Jungle Britt/West Hancock alumni banquet - social hour, West Hancock Elementary School Britt Idol, City Park gazebo Doc Anderson’s Medicine Show, Main Avenue Alumni banquet, West Hancock Elementary School Entertainer Chuck Williams, in front of Hobo Museum Hobo entertainment at Hobo Jungle Beer garden opens with music by Vent
Saturday, Aug. 13 All Day All Day 7 a.m. 10 a.m.
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables Shuttle service will run between various attractions Annual 5K/10K Walk/Run, West Hancock High School Giant parade
4 p.m. 5 p.m.-8 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m.- 6:30 p.m.
6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m.
10 11 3 5 West Hancock High/ Elem. School
9 a.m. 10a.m.- 2 p.m. 1 p.m.-4 p.m. 5 p.m. 5 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 14 8 a.m. 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. 8 a.m.- 4 p.m.
8 12
8 a.m.- 1 p.m. 1:30- 4 p.m.
*Hobo Museum opens when parade ends *Inflatables open when parade ends Hobo art gallery by Leanne Castillo – Municipal Building Armstrong House open for tours Basketball tournament, uptown Britt Free mulligan stew in City Park Smiley Train, Main Avenue Doc Anderson’s Medicine Show, Main Avenue Hobo king and queen coronation in City Park Pie-eating contest, North Main Avenue Hancock County Ag Museum open for tours, fairgrounds Hobo games, Main Avenue Poetry with Jerry and Frank, City Park gazebo Tina Wald book signing, Hobo Museum Kid Power pedal tractor pull, location to be announced Britt Has Talent, City Park gazebo Polka mass, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church First annual Hobo Days BBQ Cook-off, Main Avenue *judging will be held at 5:30 p.m. Entertainer Chuck Williams, in front of Hobo Museum Hobo entertainment at Hobo Jungle Beer garden opens with music Luther the Jet to play organ during mass, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church Classic car show, Main Avenue Craft show in the park with music by Malek’s Fishermen *bring your own lawn chairs Omelet breakfast, Britt Municipal Building Homemade pie and ice cream social, City Park
Convention is held annually the second weekend in August.
6
LOCATION OF EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS
1
1. Hancock County Fairgrounds - Ag Museum - Hancock County Speedway 2. Hobo Jungle 3. City Park - Britt Municipal Building 4. Evergreen Cemetery - Hobo Memorial 5. West Hancock High/Elementary School 6. Westview Care Center
7. Centennial Park 8. Larson-Armstrong House 9. Sidetrack Lanes 10. Mary Jo’s Hobo House - Queen’s Garden 11. Hobo Museum 12. St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
* Streets in bold represent the parade route
12 • May 25, 2011
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
May 25, 2011 • 9
Saying farewell to a friend A FEW MEMORIES FROM THE 110TH HOBO CONVENTION
WALKWAY: FROM PAGE 8 are never really honored, they always came in second to the kings.” The garden has been well used this spring, Hughes said. On a nice day, it’s not unusual to see local people enjoying the garden, relaxing on the benches or having lunch on the sitting wall. The garden and walkway were also beautified with help from a few local people. Todd and Jennifer Hughes, owners of the
Flower Cart, landscaped the area and local farmer,Tim Grove donated three large rocks which line the path. Hughes said the Hobo Foundation plans to expand the walkway to the south and will be selling additional brick pavers in the future. “It’s great new addition to what we already have,” Hughes said. “We need to have new attractions for the tourists.”
Former hobo queen recalls fond memories of Iowa Blackie The first year my husband, Dennis (a.k.a. Hobo Santa) and I came to Hobo Days in Britt, we had no idea what to expect other than it was a festival. We were downtown by the gazebo sitting in lawn chairs when a man carrying a large duffle bag, wearing overalls and sporting scraggly hair and beard sat down near us. He stated, “Lady, will you watch my stuff while I do an errand?” I had no idea who he was but said I would. He thanked me when he returned. He then engaged us in chit-chat and introduced himself as Iowa Blackie. As soon as he learned this was our first Hobo Days he invited us to the Hobo Museum to give us a tour, which we accepted. Iowa Blackie had such excitement in his blue eyes as he would point to a photo and then tell us a story about the photo. Upon our first visit to Britt we saw numerous people there but only Iowa Blackie and Texas Madman invited us to join in and see things such as the museum, the parade, the hobo cemetery and the Hobo Jungle. They were both true ambassadors, welcoming two strangers who felt out of place at a festival and didn't know what to do other than go to the craft and flea market tents. We returned the following year. Iowa Blackie spotted me and came over to greet me. That first year we seemed to have bonded. Six years later, I was elected National Hobo Queen. Iowa Blackie congratulated me with a big hug. As hobo queen, I
NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTOS AND COURTESY OF JO LECOUNT
Richard “Iowa Blackie” Gage was a familiar face around Britt during the National Hobo Convention. He often could be found in City Park during the king and queen coronation, top right, selling his poetry. He also enjoyed dancing at J & D Hob Nob with Connecticut Shorty, below right. decided to correspond with everyone on the hobo directory including Iowa Blackie. This started a "pen-pal" correspondence between Iowa Blackie and me. I received my last postcard from Iowa Blackie in January 2011. I will miss his postcards. Iowa Blackie amazed me with how much information he could write on his postcards. He always addressed them with not just my address but the township included in the address. Truthfully, I didn't know my township until I started getting mail from him. His writing was so small on his postcards I had to get a magnifying glass to read them. It was always a joy to receive mail from Iowa Blackie. Several of my postcards were rubber-
stamped with “Iowa Blackie for President.” On Saturday evening of the convention during ladies night at the Hob Nob bar, we were joined by Iowa Blackie. He enjoyed kicking up his heels, especially when dancing with Connecticut Shorty. He had such a good time and so did all the ladies. In 2009, Dennis and I moved to Homosassa, Fla. At Hobo Days that year we said our goodbyes to Iowa Blackie. We explained to him and the hobo family it was likely to be our last visit to Britt for a long time. Once again he gave me a hug as he said goodbye. It won't be the same for those at Hobo Days 2011 to not see Iowa Blackie rubber-tramping to Britt on his motorcycle and sitting near the gazebo, writing in his
book or selling his poetry or calendars. Rest in peace, dear friend.
“Mama Jo” LeCount 2003 Hobo Queen Richard “Iowa Blackie” Gage died in his home on Feb. 24. He was 62. Iowa Blackie, the name he was given in the 1970s by a group of hobos while in Hampton, was a regular
visitor to the National Hobo Convention. He supported himself by working wherever he could, and selling books of his collected works of poetry detailing his life as a hobo. He began to chronicle his travels in 1987. In 1989, he met a volunteer at an Iowa City shelter who was so amazed by the hobo’s poetry that he took Iowa Blackie to the
University of Iowa computer lab and helped him assemble his first book of collected poetry and prose. His work is also included in the book “One More Train to Ride: the Underground World of Modern American Hoboes,” by Cliff Williams, endorsed by radio personality Garrison Keillor. Iowa Blackie was elected Hobo King in 1993.
2010 Hobo Guide
8 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Brick project is completed in dowtown Britt By Emilie Nelson Hobo Guide 2011
HOBO GUIDE PHOTO BY EMILIE NELSON
An engraved brick walkway was completed just north of Mary Jo’s Hobo House in Britt following the 2010 convention. It honors both hobos and those faithful to the celebration.
Visitors to the annual Hobo Convention in Britt will have a new spot to stop and enjoy the outdoors when they come to town in August. A new walkway constructed of engraved bricks just north of Mary Jo’s Hobo House on Main Avenue was completed in the months following the 2010 convention and leads visitors on a stroll through a small park honoring hobos past and present. Hobo Foundation president Linda Hughes said portions of the project
were more than 10 years in the making. “We started selling bricks in 2000,” said Hughes. “There were supposed to be in the new museum, but when that project came to an end we decided that if we were allowed, we’d use them to put in a walkway.” The walkway project was given life when Mary Jo Hughes and Connecticut Shorty allowed it to be placed on their land last fall. The area previously only housed a small flower garden The winding brick path features names of donors
How Hobo Days began
and also honors the memory of hobos who were regular attendees of the convention who have since passed. A brick sitting wall gives visitors an opportunity to rest a little and take in the colors of the queen’s gardens, a flower garden honoring past hobo queens and the serenity garden honoring the Serenity Sisters, a musical group which provides entertainment at the convention every year. “This is one way to honor our queens,” Hughes said. “The queens NEWS-TRIBUNE PHOTO
For WALKWAY, see page 12.
Although the National Hobo Convention officially begins on a Thursday, many hobos show up as early as Monday, the day they gather for the traditional early arrivals photo.
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Britt’s Hobo Day of 1900 were B. C. Way of Mason City and Frank Morrow of Garner. Way and Potter had read in a Chicago paper that Tourist Union No. 63 had elected as officers Onion Cotton, of Danville, Ill., and Grand Head Pipe Charles F. Noe of Sycamore, Ill. They wrote Noe and invited him to bring the Hobo Convention to Britt in 1900. Noe wrote that he would come out to Britt and look the ground over, providing Way and Potter would defray his expens-
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For BEGINNING, see page 14.
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es, which they agreed to do. Grand Head Pipe Noe arrived in Britt in the autumn of 1899 and was met at the Milwaukee depot by Way and Potter. After they dined and wined the Grand Head Pipe they called in an attorney, W. E. Bradford, to guide the proceedings and see that they were legal. They also invited Phil Reed, a newspaperman connected with the Britt News. The four men
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The fourth annual convention of Tourist Union No. 63—more commonly known as the Hobo Convention—occurred on Aug. 22, 1900, in Britt. Britt celebrates this anniversary each year. The convention of Aug. 22, 1900, came about after much work on the part of Thos A. Way, T. A. Potter, and W. E. Bradford, three energetic men of Britt, who proposed to do something different to show the world that Britt was a lively little town capable of doing anything that larger cities could do. Other persons who had a big part in
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May 25, 2011 • 13
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2011 Hobo Guide
14 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
Bet you didn’t know.... ■ In 1936 Scoopshovel Scotty was a world traveler of land and sea. He was given the honor to cook the soup at the Hobo Jungle that year. ■ In 1939 Scoopshovel Scotty was elected king of the hobos even though he admitted to being a bum.
NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO
Hobos and hobos-at-heart take a moment to remember those who caught the westbound during a special memorial service held annually during Hobo Days.
■ In 1955 Scoopshovel Scotty was elected King of the Hobos. Ben Benson refused to attend
the hobo convention that year because he didn't like having Scoopshovel Scotty as head of the hobo world. ■ Road Hog USA was born on Nov. 26, 1940, and was elected king of the hobos in 1992. ■ In 1997, Road Hog stated in a letter that he had no kinfolk and that the only family he has is the hobo family.
BEGINNING: FROM PAGE 13 tees. The novelty of the convention appealed to newspaper reporters everywhere and everyone talked it up. Everyone joked about the event— except the promoters. The day finally arrived with suitable banners floating in the breeze. Strung across the street from the Way-Healy building was a s i g n — H o b o Headquarters. Bailey, not to be outdone, announced that his office was Hobo
Hindquarters. Early in the morning a large delegation from Chicago arrived with Cotton and Noe. The Clear Lake band and a large crowd of the fraternity gathered up en route. The newspaper reporters held a meeting in a room at the Allison Hotel. They had been assigned to the convention and told to take the matter seriously, but had come to believe that it was
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a burlesque; however, they decided to play the game to the end, resulting in long articles, cartoons and other parodies, which appeared in dailies from San Francisco to Boston. In the evening a convention was held by a campfire at the fairgrounds at which an election elevated Admiral Dewey to the presidency and Philip Red to the vice presidency of Tourist Union No. 63.
SO
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■ A-No.1 rambled from coast to coast with the the famous writer Jack London, whose moniker was "Sailor Jack".
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WELCOME TO BRITT! NEWS-TRIBUNE PHOTO
TO GET ON THE RIGHT TRACK FINANCIALLY...VISIT WITH YOUR FRIENDS AT
Serenity, a Hobo gospel group from Maine, perform by the Jungle campfire during the 2010 convention.
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were placed online, Hughes has received some correspondence inquiring about the celebration. “I’ve heard from a few people in the Hollywood area, and the History Channel,” said Hughes. “The History Channel isn’t able to come, but it is still a big thing to know that people out there have heard of this; and all because of a You Tube commercial.”
For MORE TRIVIA, see page 15.
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rough drafts like any assignment.” Each team gathered footage from past conventions, added audio and created their own commercial videos capturing the food, artwork, parades and other festivities that can be found at the 2011 convention, and compiled them into one minute commercials complete with music. Since the commercials
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A flower by any other name... A variety of flowers currently are planted in the Queen’s Garden next to Mary Jo’s Hobo House. Following is a list of the different types of flowers that are in the garden following the 2009 convention and which hobo queen each flower represents—
May 25, 2011 • 7
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must have guaranteed that their Hobo Convention would go over big in Britt, for Noe agreed to bring the convention to Britt in 1900. With this important step out of the way, the real promotion work began. Bailey, a nationally known humorist and ardent conventioneer, assumed the publicity end of the promotion and various other men took positions on other commit-
■ The real name of ANo.1 was Leon Livingston. He is most famous for leaving his moniker on fence posts, store fronts and in train yards.
2011 Hobo Guide
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2011 Hobo Guide
6 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune MUSEUM: FROM PAGE 4
HOBO GUIDE PHOTOS BY EMILIE NELSON
Many hobos are represented in Britt’s National Hobo Museum. Among those with memorabilia on display are Steamtrain Maury, Hard Rock Kid, Pennsylvania Kid and Frisco Jack. Many items were donated to the museum by the individuals themselves.
Santa a few times He had a few famous friends, and was a close friend of Dolly Parton.” A hat made famous by Pennsylvania Kid was given to the museum just a few years ago. The tall hat filled with feathers and Hobo Days buttons was once thought to be lost after his death, but was brought to Britt when his caretaker died about three years ago. “We wanted that hat, but we didn’t know what had happened to it,” Hughes said. “(Pennsylvania Kid) always went to Burlington and lived in the basement of a barbershop. When he died everything stayed there. When the barber died, his caretaker inherited everything the barber had, including Pennsylvania’s things. When she found the hat, she knew right where to bring it.” “The hat is priceless, he must have been in every newspaper with that hat,” Hughes said. “That hat was the meaning of Hobo Days and anyone who remembers it will love to see it.”
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Hobo royalty from years past Kings 1900 Charles Noe 1933-35 Hairbreadth Harry 1936 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1937-38 King David I 1939 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1940-45 Hobo Ben Benson 1946 Skeet Simmons 1947 Hiway Johnny Weaver 1948 Hobo Ben Benson 1949 Cannonball Eddie 1950 Hobo Ben Benson 1951 Cannonball Eddie 1952 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1953 Hobo Ben Benson 1954-55 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1956 Hobo Ben Benson 1957 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1958 Arizona Bill 1959 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1960-61 King David I 1962 Scoop Shovel Scotty 1963 Pennsylvania Kid Wilson 1964 Beef Steak Charlie 1965 Hard Rock Kid 1966 Pennsylvania Kid 1967 Hard Rock Kid 1968 Pennsylvania Kid 1969 Slow Motion Shorty 1970 Hard Rock Kid 1971 Pennsylvania Kid 1972 Hard Rock Kid 1973 Steamtrain Maury 1974 Slow Motion Shorty 1975 Hard Rock Kid 1976 Steamtrain Maury 1977 Sparky Smith 1978 Steamtrain Maury 1979 Steamtrain Maury 1980 Sparky Smith 1981 Steamtrain Maury 1982 Hobo Bill Mainer 1983 Mountain Dew 1984 Fry Pan Jack 1985 Frisco Jack 1986 Ramblin' Rudy 1987 Alabama Hobo 1988 Fishbones 1989 El Paso Kid 1990 Songbird McCue 1991 Ohio Ned 1992 Roadhog USA 1993 Iowa Blackie 1994 Sidedoor Pullman Kid 1995 Luther the Jet 1996 Liberty Justice 1997 Frog 1998 New York Slim 1999 Preacher Steve 2000 Bo Grump 2001 Grandpa Dudley 2002 Redbird Express 2003 Hobo Spike 2004 Adman 2005 Iron Horse Brad 2006 Iowegian Rick 2007 Tuck 2008 Stretch 2009 Inkman 2010 Dante
Queens
Polly Ellen Pep Polly Ellen Pep Polly Ellen Pep Box Car Myrtle Box Car Myrtle Sylvia Davis Sylvia Davis Sylvia Davis Box Car Betty Link
Box Car Betty Link Box Car Betty Link
Box Car Myrtle Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Adventurer Jan LuAnn Uhden Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Longlooker Mic Cinderbox Cindy Hobo Lump Longlooker Mic Hobo Lump Slo Freight Ben Longlooker Mic Minneapolis Jewel Hobo Lump Would-be hobo Slo Freight Ben Gypsy Moon Minneapolis Jewel Connecticut Shorty Blue Moon New York Maggie Cinderbox Cindy Come On Pat Minneapolis Jewel Cinders Slo Freight Ben M.A.D. Mary Derail Nightingale Mama Jo Sunrise Half Track Ms. Charlotte Lady Sonshine Connecticut Tootsie Stray Cat Double “B”
May 25, 2011 • 15
And a little more hobo trivia... ■ A-No. 1 died in 1944 and is buried in a small town in Pennsylvania called Cambridge Springs. ■ Slo-Motion Shorty always said, “A Hobo will never starve. You can get cracked eggs from the hatcheries, day-old bread from the bakeries and soup bones from the little grocery stores.” ■ Slow Motion Shorty and Steamtrain Maury traveled together for 12 years
■ Slo Motion Shorty was on the road for 33 years. After he retired from the road, he would take a short trip down to the rail yards perhaps to climb aboard a boxcar and sleep for the night.. ■ Did you know that the original name of the Britt Hobo was Weary Willie, not Onion Cotton. The logo that appears in the 1900 Britt paper was taken from the official convention announcement and is
dated back to 1897 or within a year of that. ■ Mt. Dew was born on Sept. 1, 1922. He got his moniker from drinking the soda pop Mt. Dew. ■ Mt. Dew served in the Army Air Corps during WWII returned to the United States and took up the lifestyle of a rare breed — the hobo. ■ Mt. Dew rode the rails for over 40 years.
Welcome to our 111th Annual Hobo Convention
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■ Fry Pan Jack was born in 1912. He hoboed for more than 57 years. He got his moniker from carrying his own frying pan. ■ Fry Pan Jack was the first hobo that Preacher Steve ever met. ■ Hood River Blackie tried to always find an empty boxcar at the front of the train or at the rear of the train because wrecks were usually in the middle of the train.
2011 Hobo Guide
16 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
Experience the city of Britt during Hobo Days
Hobo Days hits Web on YouTube
More than a century of small-town living and friendly faces makes Britt a place to come home to. For history buffs, the town actually dates back to about 1870 when a depot was built on the south side of the railroad tracks going through the area. This depot was named Britt in honor of one of the railroad employees. Britt became an official town in 1878. At that time, it consisted of 14 blocks. From that small and humble beginning came a town both locals and hobos have come to call home. Every town has history rich in tradition and hometown values. For the members of this small Iowa community, a sense of pride and heritage is what makes the annual hobo gathering a one-ofa-kind event. It’s yet another example of how the residents of this progressive little town and those who live in this county work together to improve the lives of everyone around them.
By Emilie Nelson Hobo Guide 2011
A GROWING COMMUNITY Shoppers from Britt and the surrounding area delight in all the local shops that Britt has to offer. From restaurants with hometown cooking to specialty shops, there are businesses in Britt to meet just about every need and to provide quality, small-town service — all without the hassles of big-town crowds and driving. Small business owners and large industry have worked together to make sure the community continues to thrive and be attractive to newcomers and visitors, while continuing to service the needs of residents. Britt Industrial Development Corporation (BIDCO) was organized in 1957 with the purpose of advancing the community of Britt by attracting industry. A community group is currently in the midst of a revitalization effort in Britt to enhance our special city. Several groups
are currently involved in several projects designed to make Britt an even better place to stop, shop and live. When Hobo Days rolls around, everyone gets involved with the celebration, including Britt businesses. Britt has a brand new state-of-the-art aquatic center, laundromat, convenience stores, two full service banks, great restaurants, a shoe store, a hardware store, several specialty gift stores, a florist, a grocery store, a pharmacy, a car dealership, the only tow trucks NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO in Hancock County and Britt offers a wealth of just about everything in attractions for visitors between.
including the LarsonBRITT’S OWN MUSEUMS Armstrong House, a museum rich with area history. Britt offers much in the The museum is open for way of old-time Iowa tours during Hobo Days. country life when taking in the Armstrong House Museum and the Hancock County Ag Museum, which houses a fantastic array of old-fashioned and antique farm equipment. Volunteers spend countless hours taking
For BRITT, see page 17.
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and strategized on the best ways to promote their community and its annual celebration. “Each team made their own video for Linda to select,” said Marcy Maylan, who helped produce the runner-up video. As with any assignment, DeHart said it came with deadlines and specific expectations over the two month production time. “We had a timeline of when to have things laid out,” he said. “And we had For COMMERCIAL, see page 7.
HOBO GUIDE PHOTO BY EMILIE NELSON
West Hancock High School senior Josh Christians prepares to watch the Hobo Days commercial he helped produce on the video website YouTube.
30th Annual
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care of both of these great museums and their historic artifacts. During the summer, the Armstrong House provides the backdrop for
REHAB-TO-HOME CARE ●
Highlights of the National Hobo Convention can now be seen worldwide through an online commercial produced by students at West Hancock High School. Students in Robin Kudej’s general business class were contacted by Hobo foundation president Linda Hughes to help create and update publicity for the annual event, which draws in hobos from across the country. “Linda wanted to get
the word out and came to us,” said Andrew DeHart, a student in the class. To really get into true hobo spirit, the class toured Britt’s National Hobo Museum to get a better understanding of the history of the convention and collected photos and video clips from past events to begin creating a montage of all that takes place during the four day convention. After completing the initial research, the class divided into two teams for an “Apprentice” like competition among the class. Both teams researched
May 25, 2011 • 5
Welcome to the 111th National Hobo Convention!
2011 Britt Draft Horse Show Sept. 2nd, 3rd & 4th Hancock County Fairgrounds, Britt, Iowa One Of The Largest Draft Horse Hitch Shows in North America
Hours: Mon – Fri 5:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Sat. 5:30 – 10:30 a.m. Sun. – 7 a.m. – noon
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The grandstand shows, held Saturday and Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. Gates open each morning at 7:00 a.m.
18 of the Finest Six-Horse Draft Hitches in the U. S. and Canada *Lunch On the Grounds *Commercial Buildings *Commemorative Buckles *Camping Available
2011 Hobo Guide
4 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
Britt News-Tribune
Museum offers a glimpse into life on the rails
BRITT: FROM PAGE 17
By Emilie Nelson Hobo Guide 2011 From a hobo’s artwork to worn out pairs of bib overalls and blue jeans hanging in display cases, there is plenty to be found in the Hobo Museum and Gift shop on Main Avenue. Located in the former Chief movie theater, the museum has been a main street attraction for 21 years, Hobo Foundation president Linda Hughes said. “It had been closed for quite a few years when the foundation bought it,” Hughes said. Each item in the museum tells its own unique story of the life and hardships experienced by the men and women who rode the rails. Over the years, many true hobos and hobos at heart have left their items to the foundation to be displayed in the museum. Each hobo has their own trademark, and many of those can also be seen in the museum. “Most items here have
been donated when a hobo has passed away and others donated by the hobos themselves,” Hughes said. “Some of them don’t have homes of their own; they consider Britt their home. The museum is their pride and joy and they want their things to be here.” One of those hobos was John Mislen, better known as Hard Rock Kid. Mislen rode the rails across Iowa and lived the life of a true hobo. He died in August 1977 in Ogden while making his way to Britt for the annual Hobo Convention. All of his belongings, including a tattered pair of overalls, his last pack of cigarettes, a can of hobo soup and the backpack he kept them in can be found in the first display case inside the museum doors. A handmade postcard from Vietnam War soldiers casting their votes for Hard Rock Kid as hobo king postmarked 1967 is also on display in the case. Another case displays a denim patch coat and hat made by Texas Madman. “He made the coat on a
boxcar,” Hughes said. “He’d lay on it on the floor to see what he needed to add to make it fit him.” Texas Madman is still alive today, but, there can be consequences to living life on the rails. “He ran into a little trouble with the law,” Hughes said. “He’s serving his time now.” Another case is dedicated to famed hobo and six-time hobo king Maurice “Steamtrain Maury” Graham. Steamtrain Maury was captivated by life on the rails, but also had a wife and two daughters. He once left a note on the family’s kitchen table which read “gone fishing,” not to return for more than nine years. “When he did come home, he’d have to stay in the garage,” Hughes said. “But, no matter where he went, he always provided for his daughters, and still, they thought the world of him.” With white hair and a long beard resembling Santa Claus, Hughes said Steamtrain Maury was a
HOBO GUIDE PHOTO BY EMILIE NELSON
Memorabilia from hobos both alive and gone are on display in Britt’s National Hobo Museum.
HOBO MUSEUM & GIFT SHOP
favorite among fellow hobos and children. “He was everybody’s favorite,” she said. “He visited schools, kept the children on the straight and narrow, and played
OPEN MON-FRI 10 AM TO 5 PM MEMORIAL DAY TO AUG. 19, 2011 OR BY APPT.
Admission $3
For MUSEUM, see page 6.
old-time music and ice cream socials. The Armstrong museum is open to the public 1:30 to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday Memorial Day through Labor Day. The museum is open during the Hobo Convention. Open for tours by appt. The Ag Museum, open the Saturday of Hobo Days from 1-4 p.m., has been an ongoing effort by a local dedicated group of citizens interested in seeing the past brought to the people in an effort to educate everyone about the history of rural Iowa. Collecting, preserving and exhibiting antique farm machines, equipment, tools and memorabilia is the goal. The Hobo Museum, housing more than a century of hobo memorabilia, is a must-see during any visit to Britt. True to the hobo way, the museum offers a look into the lives of hobos. It’s located right downtown for easy access.
AREA RECREATION Britt has an excellent
2011 Hobo Guide golf course on its north edge and is within 15 miles of three other very challenging nine hole courses. Summer fun awaits you, especially at the new aquatic center with slide in the heart of Britt. For those who enjoy swimming, boating and fishing in Iowa’s lakes, Crystal Lake is an easy 10 mile drive north of Britt and Eldred Sherwood Park is only 24 miles southeast of Britt. Both areas offer camping facilities and playground equipment. Pilot Knob State Park, Iowa’s second-highest point, has camping facilities, a fishing pond and several miles of hiking trails. It is located about 25 miles from Britt, four miles east of Forest City. Since 1995, racing enthusiasts have enjoyed the finest regional stock car racing action at the Hancock County Speedway, located adjacent to the fairgrounds southeast of Britt. Weekly races are held on Thursday nights beginning in late spring and continuing through Labor Day. This small, rural Iowa
town has so much to offer, and for that reason it is easy to see why hobos made Britt their stopping place so many years ago and why the friendship between the residents and the hobos continues to thrive to this day.
BRITT CITY PARKS For a small community, Britt works to maintain a big recreational base for residents and visitors. The parks across from the high school offer a tennis court, sand volleyball court, playground equipment, picnic tables, grills, shelter house and room to run. Centennial Park just off Highway 18 is a newer park with all of the above features as well as a ball diamond. City Park in Britt is full of activity during the hobo convention. After the convention it is a favorite place for outdoor basketball games, roller blading and a craft show.
WEST HANCOCK SCHOOLS A progressive and forward-thinking school
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district has remained an integral part of the educational backbone of Britt. A new state-of-the-art elementary school opened just a few years ago in Britt, adjacent to the high school. A strong sports background, state and district titles, an exemplary music and speech program and an even stronger academic base make this a competitive district.
Steinberg Crafts
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NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO
There is plenty to do in Britt during the summer and year-round. During Hobo Days, the Hancock County Speedway hosts a special event called “Night of 1,000 Stars.”
Bus Tours Welcome Located in the Old Chief Theatre 51 Main Ave. S. • 641-843-9104 www.hobo.com
Jackets • Shirts • Caps Purses • Jewelry
May 25, 2011 • 17
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2011 Hobo Guide
18 • May 25, 2011
Britt News-Tribune
Hobo symbols — a language all their own
CONVENTION: FROM PAGE 2
HOBO SOUVENIRS You are sure to want something to remember the experience of being part of Hobo Days, so be sure to get a souvenir while you’re here. The Hobo Museum and Gift Shop has a great selection of hobo poetry and books. Hobo poetry, hobo knots, tshirts, caps, cups, spoons, thimbles, postcards and posters are also available through the Chamber of Commerce office, located in the Cobbler Shoppe on Main Avenue.
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CRAFTS AND COLLECTABLES
GOLF CARS
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
Vagabond Craft Show and Collectables will be held in conjunction with the convention this year, much to the pleasure of “treasure seekers”. On the
open streets, many conventioneers have a chance to shop the tables of the merchants. The market sets up Thursday and runs through Saturday night. Each year there are new exhibitors, as well as the favorites from years before selling handmade rugs, doll clothes, wood and shell items, miscellaneous glassware and antique dealers, hat-wear, jewelry and a variety of other items.
MULLIGAN STEW Saturday marks a wellknown highlight of the convention as the hobo community invites everyone to City Park for the annual king and queen coronation. At noon, more than 500 gallons of mulligan stew are served to those in attendance. The stew recipe is one that
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Get your own copy of the 2010 Hobo Guide at the Britt News-Tribune today!
For the car enthusiast, don’t miss out on the classic car show. Twenty-eight classes of cars make up the annual show and whatever your favorite classic car may be, you’re sure to find a favorite here. See them all Sunday, Aug. 14 on Main Avenue. Also during the car show a craft show will be held in City Park. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair and visit for the afternoon and listen to the entertainment. Feel free to get up and dance if the mood strikes you.
ATHLETES IN ACTION
OTHER EVENTS Don’t forget to take in the fire lighting ceremony at the Jungle on Thursday, which marks the official start of the convention. Also, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the ladies tea, followed by an inspriring organ concert by Luther the Jet at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.
We Also Have T-shirts, Men’s & Women’s Clothing, Shoes, Sandals, & Handbags BRITT CITY COUNCIL - Front row from l - r: Curt Gast, Mayor David Mitchell and Gary Gelner. Back row: Mike Ostercamp, Bryan Aitchison, Doug Weiland and City Clerk Jeanie Purvis. Whether it’s taking in the many activities or visiting with hobos in the Hobo Jungle, Hobo Days provides a fun-filled weekend away from the rest of the world.
David Mitchell, Mayor of Britt Jeanie Purvis, City Clerk; Darcy Eisenman, Deputy Clerk
COBBLER SHOPPE
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Enjoy your visit to Britt
The Hancock County Ag Museum opened its doors to the public in the summer of 2002. Making a big debut after a long effort, organizers are offering an facility designed to educate people, especially the younger generations, about the days of farming in early Iowa. The museum will be the site for hands-on learning. So take a step back into the past and revisit the days of old. Learn about the tools and machinery
CLASSIC CAR SHOW
For the athletic types and their supporters, the 5K and the 10K runs start Saturday at 7 a.m. A 5K walk will also be held for enthusiasts. Each year, hundreds of all ages participate in the event. The well-supervised and marked route takes runners through the early morning Britt area, as well as provides a tshirt to commemorate their effort.
WELCOME TO BRITT, HOME OF THE NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTION Stop In & Check Out Our Wide Selection of Chamber Hobo Day Souvenirs!
Britt, Iowa 641-843-4132 James Ave. South (1/2 mile)
A Vintage Mix of Charm & Cheer
AG MUSEUM
used to first farm the land in this area. The museum will be open from 1-4 p.m. Saturday during the convention.
Welcome To Britt, We’re Glad You’re Here!
Stop In & Check Out Our Showroom
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convention chefs have used for many years after gaining mulligan stew-making secrets from the real hobos of earlier conventions. This tradition—which started as a free meal for only the hobos—now gives everyone a taste of hobo grub.
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• Marshall & Swift Agent • eBay Consignment
21 Main Avenue North •
(641) 843-3512 •
Britt, Iowa 50423
City Hall - 843-4433... Police - 843-3822... Hospital - 843-5000 MS-30492
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
Welcome to the 111th annual Hobo Convention
HOBO DAYS PARADE Saturday at 10 a.m. everyone can let their hobo spirit soar as they participate in the giant parade. Whether you’re part of this large grand parade or a spectator, the spirit of the day is sure to capture your mood. Marching bands, queens, business floats, children, adults and hobos all come down the streets in one long line and share the fun that only a hobo convention can provide.
HOBO MEMORIAL SERVICE The hobo cemetery in Evergreen Cemetery on the east edge of Britt is symbolic of the ties between the hobo and this community. The memorial area, dedicated in 1990, is the resting spot of many deceased convention hobos.
Hobo friends, relatives, American Legion members and others join convention-goers at this Friday morning service to pay homage to the hobo ways and the hobos who have caught the “westbound.” Last year, Preacher Steve was laid to rest in the hobo cemetery during the memorial ceremonies. He took his place among the other grave sites, including that of Cinderbox Cindy, Honor John, Hobo Joe, Cardboard, Hardrock Kid, Mountain Dew, Pennsylvania Kid, Slow Motion Shorty, Charlie Tuna, Iowa Bob, Lord Open Road, Hafey Zale, Connecticut Slim, Slim Jim, Texas Bob, Man Called John, Hobo Joe and others.
HOBO JUNGLE They’d hop the rails, ride awhile, then make camp just off the track. Jungle was the name of this campsite. Each year at the National Hobo Convention, hobos gather to share their stories, song and dance around a campfire by the tracks. They relive the old jungle days and open the celebration to all who want to join. Stew and coffee are prepared over the campfire and shared with friends and as the night comes to a close, all relax to share an evening of entertainment under the stars. Everyone is encouraged to sing
Enjoy your visit to the 111th National Hobo Convention
along or share a story. A visit to the convention isn’t complete without a trip to the jungle. The hobos also take their music and jungle atmosphere to Westview Care Center each year to entertain the residents and to spread a little good cheer.
KING AND QUEEN CORONATION The annual convention of the Local Tourist Union No. 63 originally was the time set aside to elect a hobo leader for the following year. The Local 63 has decreased in numbers over the years, but the tradition NEWS-TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO of electing a king and queen from Each year, the community elects a king and queen of the the “hobo ranks” is still carried out through voting by crowd applause. hobos. Last year, Dante, left, and Double “B” were To win their title, hobos may enter- crowned. tain with song, dance or stories. Last year, Dante and Double “B” WHERE were crowned during the annual YOUR coronation ceremony in Britt’s City Park Saturday. As king and queen, IMAGE Dante, of Staples, Minn., and Double “B”, of Telford, Pa., were 3D Trophy & Awards MATTERS... expected to represent the hobo culPersonalized to fit your needs ture, the convention and the city of Britt over the year of their reign. Businesses, Schools, Clubs The pair succeeded 2009 royalty and Organizations... Inkman and Stray Cat. We do Embroidery, Spectators vote by applauding for Screen Printing their favorite candidate. For CONVENTION, see page 3.
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Britt Area Chamber of Commerce
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(641) 843-3867 Located in the Cobbler Shoppe
2008 which increases patient safety and quality of care. In March 2011, HCMH began an expansion and renovation project north of the current facility. The first floor of the new addition will include an expanded rehabilitation services department that will provide outpatient physical therapy, diabetic education, cardiac and pulmonary rehab and a community fitness center. Imaging services will be enlarged to allow for additional services. The addition to the second floor of the hospital will allow for all private inpatient rooms. Tremendous community support for these projects has allowed HCMH to grow with the county and its medical needs.
OUTPATIENT SERVICES With almost 20,000 clinic visits last year, the hospital and clinics offer a broad range of services including radiology, laboratory and physical therapy. Visiting specialty physicians offer conven-
ient and expanded health care services for local residents in orthopedics, ear, nose and throat, neurology, urology, podiatry, cardiology and surgical services. Cataract surgery, outpatient surgery and many laparoscopic and arthroscopic procedures are available. Other hospital services that are available include massage therapy and nail care for hands and feet. The sleep disorder lab at HCMH is staffed and equipped to perform your sleep study. The results are linked directly to the sleep disorder lab at Mercy Medical Center – North Iowa. HCMH’s business health department offers health and safety services to local employers. The HCMH medical staff consists of John Boedeker, D.O.; Catherine Butler, M.D.; Lissa Holloway, PA-C; Julie Larson, ARNP; Ashlea McLeod, PA-C; Angela McGregor, ARNP; Jerry Nelson, M.D.; Kathryn Pottratz, ARNP; Jennifer Rosenmeyer, ARNP; and
PHOTO COURTESY OF HCMH
Hancock County Memorial Hospital, located in Britt, offers a variety of medical services to individuals. Gregg VanderWaerdt, PAC. HCMH is a progressive hospital committed to serving the area’s healthcare needs with quality personal care. For more information on HCMH services, visit www.hancockmemhospital.com.
Fenchel, Doster & Buck Attorneys at Law
Like the railroad, we have a long history with Britt
P.O. Box 63 Britt, IA
at the Cobbler Shoppe
North Iowa’s greatest resource is its people. Hancock County Memorial Hospital is dedicated to professional and quality healthcare for the people of Hancock County and the surrounding area. HCMH is a countyowned, tax-supported health services facility affiliated with the Mercy Health Network – North Iowa. The 25-bed critical access hospital and four primary care clinics are located in Britt, Garner, Kanawha and Wesley. As an affiliate with Mercy Health Network, HCMH is associated with one of the largest health care systems in North Iowa. The hospital and clinics offer up-to-date technology and equipment to provide quality patient care both now and for generations to come. Extensive renovations to the Britt Medical Clinic and the hospital emergency department were completed in 2008. A hospital-based electronic health record was implemented in September
Welcome to the 111th National Hobo Convention
Britt Area Chamber of Commerce
Souvenirs Available
Providing quality health care in a small-town setting
95 Main Ave. S. • Britt, IA • 641-843-3873
Welcomes you to the 111th Hobo Convention
Boekelman Grain Equipment, Paul & Amy Boekelman 765 250th St., Britt, IA 50423 • 641-843-3734
Darlene Weber, Owner 26 Main Ave. S., Britt 843-3225
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Britt’s annual National Hobo Convention offers a variety of exciting activities to residents and visitors alike. Learn about the history of the hobo at the Hobo Museum. Experience hobo culture at Britt’s unique Hobo Jungle. Browse antiques and sample the one-of-akind mulligan stew. Watch the giant parade or test athletic skills during the annual 5K/10K walk/run. There truly is something for everyone during Hobo Days. Following are some of the highlights of the celebration—
2011 Hobo Guide
Britt News-Tribune
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Hancock County Memorial Hospital A team of health care professionals committed to the health and well-being of the families and communities we serve.
HOBO DAYS
111 TH ANNUAL NATIONAL HOBO CONVENTION AUG. 11-14, 2011 — BRITT, IOW A
BRITT MEDICAL CLINIC 641-843-5050
641-843-5000
GARNER MEDICAL CLINIC 641-923-2651 KANAWHA MEDICAL CLINIC 641-762-3696 WESLEY MEDICAL CLINIC 515-679-4285
Your Health - Our Care... A Lasting Partnership
May 25, 2011