Kenosha our town 2016

our town

Kenosha, Wis. 20 16

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101 things to see and do in the Kenosha area The Kenosha Area Conventions and Visitors Bureau offers these ideas for things to do in the area for $10 or less.

17. Seniors (ages 60 and older) can enjoy

1. See the 2015 Northwoods League

18. The Transparent Watercolor Society of America returns to the Kenosha Public Museum for its 40th Annual National Juried Exhibition, May 7 to Aug 7. FREE

Summer Collegiate World Series champions – the Kenosha Kingfish – play baseball at Simmons Field. $8+

2. Watch racing at the newly renovated Washington Park Velodrome, the oldest operating bike track of its kind in the U.S. FREE

3. Climb the Southport Lighthouse during its 150th anniversary season. $10 and less

4. Play at Kenosha’s first fully accessible

Ski Champions. The Aquanut Water Shows take place most Wednesdays and Saturdays, May 28 to Sept 3. FREE

7. Meet you at the lake. Bring the sunscreen 8. Visit Wilmot Flea Market at its new

24. Shop and save at Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets. Save even more when you pick up a coupon book. $5 coupon book

9. Get in touch with nature at Chiwaukee

Prairie, which has been designated a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention. FREE

10. Watch model trains deliver classic

American food at Choo Choo Charlie’s – and enjoy a Charlie’s Delight (salted caramel sundae). $5.99

11. Silver Lake Park is home to more than 9 miles of mountain bike trails. FREE

25. Lakeside Players Family Theatre Series

Presents: Disney’s Aladdin Jr., April 8-17. $10

26. At Mike’s Donuts and Chicken, enjoy oversized donuts with wild and unique toppings and fillings. $1-3

27. The get bEHIND the aRTS Studio Tour takes place April 24 in Kenosha. $5 suggested donation 28. Travel back to yesteryear aboard one of Kenosha’s seven authentic Electric Streetcars. $1 and under

12. Enjoy an indoor train tour at Jelly

29. Walk, bike, or drive through Kenosha’s four historic districts. FREE

13. Take a fun pedal boat ride on Lake

30. Stroll through the Kenosha Sculpture Walk, which runs along the harbor and features nearly a dozen inspiring works of art. FREE

Belly Visitor Center, and sample the crazy BeanBoozled flavors. FREE tour and samples

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

at the weekly WestoshaMarket and five city farmers’ markets. Prices vary

23. Check out the impressive 360° film “Seeing the Elephant” inside the Civil War Museum’s main exhibit The Fiery Trial. Main exhibit $9 and under

location: the Kenosha County Fairgrounds.

The market is open most Sundays, starting May 1. $1

Andrea. $8-10

14. Enjoy an old-fashioned cherry soda at a historic soda fountain, Jack’s Café inside Andrea’s. $3.95

15. Hike over the river and through the

woods at the 360-acre Petrifying Springs Park – the oldest park in the Kenosha County park system. FREE

16. Have a delicious Gouda Mornin’

Breakfast Panini (gluten free bread available) at The Buzz Café. $5.99

Recreation Area on June 5 for the Family Nature Faire. FREE

are needed June 4-5 in Wisconsin during Summer Free Fishing Weekend. FREE

crop box full of produce at Jerry Smith Produce and Pumpkin Farm. $10

22. Be amazed by the 2015 National Show

and a beach towel … we have FIVE beaches along Lake Michigan. FREE

Kite Flight, June 4-5. FREE

35. Admission is free to Richard Bong State

20. From Farm To Table II: Reserve your

5. Bring your pooch to play at one of five off-

locations: Lincoln Park, Fox River Park, Silver Lake Park, and UW-Parkside. FREE

34. Hold on to your kite. It’s the Outta Sight

36. Enjoy free cheese samples, along

21. From Farm To Table III: Shop for produce

6. Try your hand at one of four disc golf

Diner hosts a car show on the first, third, and fifth Monday evenings of the month. FREE

19. From Farm To Table I: Kenosha HarborMarket returns outdoors May 14.

You’ll find live music and 150+ vendors at this Saturday market during the summer. FREE admission

playground, the Dream Playground at Petzke Park. It’s a one-of-a-kind 15,000 square foot space for all abilities. FREE (Temporarily closed for repairs) leash dog parks throughout Kenosha County.

FREE to $5 depending on park

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the Kenosha YMCA free of charge on the third Tuesday of every month. FREE

31. Gather your friends and enjoy Kenosha Craft Beer Week at PUBLIC Craft Brewing Co. and more businesses, May 16-22. Prices vary 32. Golf nine holes for a deal after 4 p.m.

Friday through Sunday and after 5:30 p.m.

Monday through Thursday at Petrifying Springs Golf Course and Brighton Dale Links. $10

33. Between May and September, Bristol 45

with free photo ops (i.e. giant outdoor sign, Isabella the 60-year-old cow, the giant mouse) at Mars’ Cheese Castle. FREE

37. Go Fish. For Free. No fishing licenses 38. Splish. Splash. Fly down the 200-foot

long water slide at Washington Park Pool or Anderson Park Pool. $5 and under

39. Pretend it’s the 1950s as car hops serve you at Big Star Drive-In and The Spot DriveIn. Prices vary 40. Outdoor Music At The Lake I: Enjoy the Kenosha Pops on Wednesday evenings at the Sesquicentennial Bandshell, mid-June to early August. FREE 41. Outdoor Music At The Lake II: Experience the Twilight Jazz Concert Series on the lawn of Anderson Arts Center – June 28; July 5, 19, 26; and Aug 30. FREE 42. Outdoor Music At The Lake III: Peanut Butter and Jam concerts happen twice every Thursday, July 7 – Aug 25 FREE 43. Outdoor Music At The Lake IV: Enjoy a variety of music during Tuesdays At The Shell, July 12 – Aug 30. FREE

44. Uke’s Harley-Davidson is Wisconsin’s oldest H-D dealership. Explore its roots at their on-site museum. FREE 45. Celebrate some of the finest Civil War soldiers of the Midwest – the famous Iron Brigade. June 11-12 is Salute to Freedom.

FREE

46. Take the family out to breakfast on the

farm. The Kenosha County Dairy Breakfast is June 18. $6 and under

47. See the largest suspension staircase in the state – inside Kemper Center’s Durkee Mansion (open for tours, April – October).

FREE 48. Visit Linnea Bakery in Downtown

Kenosha or at its new second location inside Southwest Library for Scandinavian treats.

Prices Vary

49. Pause and reflect at the Veteran’s

Memorial Fountain and Lone Soldier Memorial at Veterans Memorial Park. FREE

continued on page 15

Justin Kirchner, of Brighton, bears down as he strives to go the longest distance during the pedal-power tractor pull at the 2015 Kenosha County Fair in Wilmot.

This year’s fair runs Aug. 17 to 21 with a theme of “Star-Spangled Summer.”

For more information, visit www.kenoshacofair.com.

EARLENE FREDERICK Our Town

and all it has to offer!

The City of Kenosha is an intriguing mix of old and new, with modern amenities like the airport and electric streetcars running the rails throughout the downtown area.

The city had been a shipping port since the early 1800s when it was known as Southport. The Kenosha Harbor now stands in monument to that history with historical lighthouses and museums open to the public.

The lakefront city is also a hub of culture and art, the Kenosha Public Museum System includes the main Kenosha Public Museum, the Dinosaur Discovery Museum in association with Carthage College and the Smithsonian, and the Kenosha Civil War Museum. The city also has the Kenosha History Center and Maritime Museum on Simmons Island, which has two lighthouses.

The outdoor Kenosha HarborMarket is open mid-May through mid-October on Second Avenue between 54th and 56th Streets. It features more than 100 stalls with vendors selling fresh produce, cheese and other local food products and handmade items. During the colder months, the HarborMarket moves indoors to the lobby of the Rhode Center of the Arts. It is not open in January and February.

The City of Kenosha runs along the Lake Michigan shoreline, midway between Milwaukee and Chicago, and is easily accessible by Interstate 94 from either city.

Kenosha is the fourth-largest city in Wisconsin, with a population of about 100,000, and the fourth-largest city on Lake Michigan, coming after Chicago, Milwaukee and Green Bay. Kenosha is a great place to play and live.

Drop by for a visit; we’ll leave the light on.

Our historic districts.............................Pages 4-5 Our history center........................................Page 6 Our island.................................................. Pages 7-8 Our market.............................................. Pages 9-10 Our businesses.......................................Pages 11-12 Our parks....................................................... Page 13 Our government........................................... Page 14

Kenosha, Wis. OUR TOWN 2016

A publication of the The Report and Southern Lakes Newspapers.

209 N. Dodge St., Burlington, WI 53185 (262) 763-3330 Editor: .......................................... Tracy Ouellette Editor in Chief: .......................... Edward Nadolski Creative Director: ............................Sue Z. Lange Advertising Sales: ......................... Donna Brooks For advertising opportunities call (262) 763-3330.

On the cover A baseball fan dances in the stands at Simmons Field. The field was home to the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League’s Kenosha Comets.

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

Discover Kenosha

Inside

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This Queen Anne style home, located in the Library Park Historic District, was the original home of Urban Lewis, a businessman.

Since 1920 the home has served as the HansenLendman Funeral Home.

Our historic districts

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Our Town

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

C R E AT E L I V I N G T I M E C A P S U L E S

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Kenosha has four historical areas designated by national register

By Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

Historic districts are found throughout the country in towns and cities that respect their history. They are composed of a collection of buildings, properties or sites that have been designated as historically or architecturally significant to the community’s development.

While most communities have one historical district, Kenosha has had four such districts designated and each has received the National Register of Historic Places designation.

The best way to appreciate these areas that have been so significant in the development of the city, is to walk through them, looking at the architecture and imagining what life was like for

Kenosha residents who lived here in the early days of the community’s development.

THIRD AVENUE DISTRICT

The Third Avenue Historic District is the showplace of high-end homes of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This district is along Third Avenue primarily between 51st Street and 60th Street, on land originally owned by Charles Durkee. The district is bounded by Lake Michigan on the east. The movers and shakers of Kenosha built elegant homes that reflected their place in society and enjoyed this prime waterfront location.

Many of these homes were designed by the popular architects, including Max Dunning, Richard Philip, and Pond

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Our Town

The former Kenosha High School was designed by architect John D. Chubb and build in 1924. Located in the Civic Center Historic District, this Neo-classical revival building covers an entire block.

LIBRARY PARK DISTRICT A short distance to the north and west is the Library Park Historic District.

Library Park itself is bounded by Seventh and Eighth avenues on the east and west and 59th Place and 61st Street on the north and south. The park was originally designed as a commons area much like those found in the eastern cities. The land was donated by Charles Durkee, who was a New Englander, and George Kimball, a Canadian.

The housing that developed along the perimeter of the commons is much more eclectic than what was seen on Third Avenue. Development began in the 1840s with small to modest sized homes built around the park. As building continued the homes become larger and more elaborate.

In the 1870s two churches were built in the Gothic Revival Style to meet the religious needs of the community. These were St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church on Seventh Avenue and the First Congregational Church on Eighth Avenue.

The most important building in this district is the Gilbert M. Simmons Memorial Library designed by Daniel Burnham in the neo-classical style. The library built in the City Park in 1900

resulted in a change of name for the park from City Park to Library Park.

CIVIC CENTER DISTRICT The Civic Center District presents a very different view of the city. This area is the legislative heart of the city and is easily recognizable with its massive neo-classical architecture. Stretching from Eighth Avenue on the east and extending west almost to 11th Avenue, it is bounded on the south by 58th Street and on the north by 55th Street.

This district was the result of cooperation between the City of Kenosha, Kenosha County and the State of Wisconsin in an effort to unify and beautify the downtown section of the city. Harland Bartholomew, a well-known city planner of the 1900s was chosen to submit a plan.

Within 10 years the four sides of the Civic Center were completed.

The buildings include the Kenosha County courthouse and jail, the old Kenosha High School, which covers an entire city block, the current post office and the original post office, now used as the Dinosaur Museum.

The Civic Center Park, like Library Park, has a common central area filled with flowers. It’s a great place to sit and take in

the architectural details of the buildings.

PEARL STREET DISTRICT The last of the local historic districts is also the smallest. The Pearl Street District is on the western edge of the city, slightly north of the Civic Center District at 11th Avenue and 55th Street. The district is located along railroad tracks. A boarding house and saloon in the district were popular with travelers and workers.

With the demise of the railroad in the 1930s, the area was isolated and began to fall into disrepair, There are four buildings in the area that were ready for demolition in the 1980s because of their lack of care.

They were saved by private investors and developers.

These buildings are architecturally diverse. A cast iron front building, a Classical Revival building, one in Greek Revival Style, and an Italianate two-story structure made of Cream City Brick. While they have served as boarding houses, saloons, and grocery stores, today they are used as business offices.

A walk through the Historic Districts of Kenosha can be accomplished in one day. Visit the website www.visitkenosha. com for a complete history of the historic districts and maps to direct you.

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

and Pond of Chicago. The homes reflected the popular styles of the day including the Tudor Revival, Georgian Revival, and the Queen Anne Colonial Revival styles.

Most of the homes have been well maintained giving the street the same appearance it had in the 1900s, except for the presence of so many automobiles.

A walk down Third Avenue is a walk into an area of Kenosha as it was in the 1900s. Imagine taking an evening stroll and stopping to chat with neighbors – the Charles Jeffrey and Charles Nash families of the automobile industry, Charles Durkee, businessman and frequent legislator for the area, James Anderson of the American Brass Company, and many other political and business figures of the time.

The Episcopal Girls School, opened on the Durkee property in 1874 when Durkee left the area to become governor of the Utah Territory. The school, known as Kemper Hall, was the leading private school in the area. The school closed in 1975 and the property is now owned by the city of Kenosha.

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Automobile building was a legacy in Kenosha.

From the first Jeffrey auto to the Nash Ramblers and finally AMC, Kenosha made its mark in the auto industry.

Our past preserved

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Our Town

History Center is tangible link to Kenosha of old

By Sandra Landen Machaj

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

CORRESPONDENT

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Nestled between the 1866 historic Kenosha lighthouse and the current water treatment plant on Simmons Island is the Kenosha History Center. The center, which is in a former water treatment building built in 1917, is home to all sorts of Kenosha history displayed in galleries designed to walk visitors through time.

The Kenosha Historical Society was founded in 1878. Its goal is to preserve and research the cultural heritage of Kenosha County and Southeastern Wisconsin and at the same time present the cultural heritage to the public. The society moved to the present location, 220 51st Place. The large building provides ample space to exhibit in three separate galleries items large and small.

On first entering the building, visitors enter the Lyman Gallery, featuring various storefronts that would have been seen in Kenosha in the early days. Volunteer docents welcome visitors and are available to answer questions about the history of Kenosha and any of the exhibits.

The Millenary Shop where women of the day went to have their hats custom made is no longer seen in most American cities.

While photography studios also displayed

here are still found, they are certainly very different. The extremely large cameras of olden days, produced an image much more slowly than today’s high-speed film or digital cameras.

The Yesteryear Gallery presents life in Kenosha and southern Wisconsin from the early settlement days until 1900. While the gallery is not large, it is filled with memorabilia and re-creations of the stores of the day. The late 1800s general stores were stores much like our department stores but on a much smaller level. It was a place to pick up a new dress or material to make one, or pots and pans for the kitchen.

A stop at the one-room schoolhouse display provides a contrast for those in school today. No computers or televisions are found anywhere in this classroom.

The wood or coal-burning heater is in the classroom and must be stoked regularly and refilled to provide heat. Air conditioning?

That’s what windows are for. Or if there is no glass in the windows, the shutters.

The largest gallery is the Rambler Legacy Hall, which covers the industrial time from 1900 through the late 20th century. The auto making legacy started with the Jeffrey and continued with the Nash Rambler, and the development of American Motors, making Kenosha one of the largest auto producers of the time, but not as large as Detroit.

The gallery features many autos on display and replicas of the Thomas B. Jeffrey Building and the United Auto Workers Local 72 early office. Other buildings that would be remembered by long-term residents of the area are also represented, including a dental office that was a replica of one found at the local sanitarium.

Along one wall is the permanent exhibition of Kenosha’s Lost Industries from 1850 through the 1970s. While many are familiar with some of the larger companies, AMC, Simmons, Jockey, SnapOn Tools there were many more industrial companies making their home in Kenosha including several brass companies, Allen Tannery and the Bain Wagon Company to mention a few. Visitors can learn whether these companies left the business or continued the business but relocated.

Kenosha History Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. The museum is closed on holidays.

No entry fee required but donations are accepted. The research library is available by appointment. Call (262) 654-5770 to make an appointment or visit them online at Kenoshahistorycenter.org or on Facebook.

s n o mm Si Island

beckons summer visitors

The sandy beach on Simmons Island is a popular place to enjoy Lake Michigan in Kenosha. In addition to the beach, there is a playground in the park.

Island remains a showpiece of Kenosha’s lakefront

By Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

In 1835, John Buller ended his search for land to build a new town when he came upon the area where the Pike River empties into Lake Michigan.

Finding this area suitable for his new community, the small settlement prospered.

It did, however, undergo a series of name changes, including changing from Pike Creek to Southport and finally to its present name Kenosha.

Just to the south of this original settlement was an island that was known as just that, The Island. In 1848 the first lighthouse was erected on this island as Southport began to make its mark as a major port on Lake Michigan. Today a lighthouse remains on this spot although it is not the original one built in 1848. The current Lighthouse was built in 1866 and is the third lighthouse to stand on the island.

The wide, sandy beach and access to the Lake Michigan waters attracted local residents to the island in the summertime. A Bathhouse, in the Tudor Revival Style, was designed by Chris Borggren and built in 1934 to accommodate visitors to the beach area.

The island was purchased by the City of Kenosha in 1955 where Simmons Island Park was officially established. The park was a popular spot for both residents and visitors to Kenosha. Because of its topography, it was possible to establish a park with many uses. The beach became a popular destination in the 1950s and 60s.

It is easy to understand why the beach was popular. The sandy stretch allowed children to play on the shore building their versions of castles, dragging buckets of water from the lake to hold their creation together. The lake itself with its waves lapping up on the shore enticed many into the cold water to swim or just splash. In the summer, the voices and laughter of those on the beach could be heard.

The bathhouse underwent several renovations over the years, but it also went through a time of disrepair and at one point was owned by a person who considered opening a restaurant in the bathhouse. The bathhouse was recognized for its historic value in 2003 when it was designated as historical and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Because of its topography, the park has more than one level. On the bluff overlooking the lake in a grassy and wooded area are a playground and an open-

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2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Our Town

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Bruce Niemi’s sculpture, titled “Free to Fly” can be seen in the plaza at the pier and near the beginning of the Boardwalk to Simmons Island beach. The sculpture has been on display since 2013.

from page 7 air pavilion. The pavilion provides a place to enjoy a picnic lunch. A second playground can be found on the beach.

In 2010 a study was undertaken by the City of Kenosha to determine how the area can be improved to provide a high-quality recreational opportunity on the lakefront. The comprehensive study included a contract with Schreiber Anderson Associates, a Madison-based landscape architect, to determine the best ways to utilize the park’s natural landscape while still preserving its historic character. The city has begun to make some of the improvements suggested in that study.

The park was not the only activity on the island. From 1947 through the 1950s a Naval Training Center was held here.

About 250 Naval Reservists stationed in the area spent time learning skills that would prepare them for active duty. This training center was under the command of an officer from the Great Lakes Naval Center. It was demolished in 1959.

The History Center of Kenosha is also on Simmons Island so even if the weather turns bad while visiting the island, the History Center or the restored 1866 Lighthouse will keep everyone busy.

The City of Kenosha, with almost eight miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, has most of it open for public use.

The Simmons Island Beach is at 5001 Simmons Island Drive. Four other public beaches are on the lakefront: Alford Park Beach, 2901 Alford Drive (Hwy 32), Eichelman Park Beach, 6125 Third Avenue, Pennoyer Island Beach 35th Street and Seventh Avenue, and Southport Beach 7825 First Avenue.

Fresh produce

y t i c e h t f o t r a e H

IN THE

HarborMarket transforms Kenosha in to Euro-style farm market

By Sandra Landen Machaj

arly on Saturday mornings the transformation begins. Along Second Avenue between 54th and 56th streets, small, white canopied tents begin to line the street and vendors from the area arrive to fill them with their home-grown fresh produce, flowers, handcrafted items, freshly baked breads, cookies and many other artisan works.

By 9 a.m., the official opening time of the HarborMarket, melodious music can be heard throughout the Place de Douai Plaza area and visitors arrive ready to enjoy beautiful Harbor Park, and begin their shopping. There is much to choose from when making choices. There are approximately 150 vendors present.

Like a true farmer’s market, it is the fresh produce that brings many to shop.

continued on page 10

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Our Town

An array of fresh vegetables is displayed in this booth at the Kenosha HarborMarket.

Most are organically grown and all must be grown within 150 miles of Kenosha. On Saturday mornings, Second Avenue between 54th and 56th streets in Kenosha is transformed into a European-style farmers market where local residents and visitors can find locally grown produce, a variety of cheeses, breads and other products.

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

CORRESPONDENT

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from page 9 The Kenosha HarborMarket requires that produce must be grown within 150 miles of Kenosha to be sold here.

Choosing local produce not only keeps local farmers in business but helps to protect the environment as the produce is not hauled by trucks or trains across the country using additional natural resources and polluting the air. Local produce also comes to market much fresher than items that have had to be transported across the country and stored in warehouses.

The fresh strawberries were most impressive during a recent visit. Fully ripened on the vine, they were freshly picked the morning of the market. If you purchase a box of berries as you arrive, it is likely that you will have to purchase a second, because many visitors have eaten them while walking through the market. .

While meandering through the market, be prepared to see a variety of items offered. Homemade marinara sauces and salsas from Doug’s Prairie Kitchen in Pleasant Prairie and Nana’s Greek Kitchen in Chicago provide a homemade taste to the pasta dishes prepared at home.

One could make a meal just from the samples offered by many of the vendors. Samples on this day included cheeses, chocolates, sauces and soups.

There are also vendors who prepare foods that are sold for lunch or a late breakfast. Croissants, empanadas, sausages, hot dogs and African specialties such as goat curry and fresh juices are just a few of the choices.

One of the favorite spots for children is the face-painting tent. Here they can take on a look of glamour or horror or settle for just a small butterfly or flower.

The fresh plants and flowers appear healthy and are perfect for those who want to add more color to their homes and gardens.

A day in the area does not have to end with the closing of the market. Visitors often take time to visit the nearby Civil War Museum, the Kenosha Museum, or the Dinosaur Museum. A visit can be topped off with a ride on the Kenosha Trolley.

The Kenosha European style farmers’ market has been a fixture in the area since 2003, opening in May each year and continuing through mid-October. The various products offered change with the growing season. Shoppers enjoy the fresh produce specific to this area as the season moves from the summer tomatoes, lettuce, corn, green beans and summer squashes to the pumpkins, winter squashes and other cooler weather crops The Westosha Market is available to complement the Kenosha Harbor Market. The Westosha Market is at 21010 75th Avenue, Bristol. That is on Highway 50 just west of Highway 45. It is open Wednesdays from early July to the end of August, from 3 to 7:30 p.m.

For more on the Kenosha HarborMarket visit Kenoshaharbormarket.com, or call (262) 914-1252.

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The face-painting booth is a popular destination for children who visit the weekly HarborMarket.

Today Jockey carries a complete line of underwear and sleepwear for men, women and children. This shot is from the company’s factory store at 5500 6th Ave., Kenosha.

Headquartered in Kenosha

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Our Town

By Sandra Landen Machaj CORRESPONDENT

call Kenosha home are Snap-on Tools and Jockey International.

For at least the first half of the 1900s, Kenosha was known as a manufacturing city as many companies were established and built their manufacturing plants in or near the city.

By the end of the 20th century most of these companies moved these manufacturing plants and their headquarters out of the area.

Much of the manufacturing was moved out of the country to save on labor costs. Other companies, such as the American Motor Corporation went out of business But not every company that built its business in Kenosha abandoned the area.

There are still some companies that started their journey in Kenosha, and while they may have moved the manufacturing divisions to other states and in some cases other countries, they continue to maintain their company’s headquarters in Kenosha.

Two of these companies that continue to

The Snap-on story The company that today is known as Snap-on tools began as a socket wrench manufacturing company that was different from other socket wrench manufacturers of the time.

Founded in Milwaukee by Joseph Johnson and William Seidemann in 1920, the company manufactured a set of 10 highquality sockets that could be snapped onto five handles, which when combined provided 50 different tools. Because the entire set was composed of just 15 pieces, their slogan became, “15 do the job of 50.”

Snap-on Tools were not manufactured to be sold to the general public. These hand tools, air tools, and electric tools were designed for the professional mechanics, who keep all types of vehicles working. Since most mechanics are required to purchase their own tools, they wanted a quality tool

that would last and Snap-on quickly became the company to provide that quality.

Unique to Snap-on is its method of selling tools. Instead of being carried in stores, Snapon brings the tools to the customers. Newton Tarble developed the idea of placing the tools in walk-in dealer vans, which would visit mechanics at their place of business.

Many of the mechanics, especially early in their careers when money was tight, would purchase one or two of the tools at a time and pay for them on a weekly basis. As the dealer made his rounds with his van, he would collect the weekly payment.

Although Snap-on tools are expensive compared to other brands, they are also considered among the most durable.

Manufacturing plants opened in various cities, including Milwaukee, Elizabethton, Tenn., Murphy, N.C., and Natick, Mass.

From 1975 until the plant’s closing in 2007 Snap-on also manufactured tools in Johnson

continued on page 12

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

Snap-on, Jockey continue to call Kenosha home

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SUBMITTED PHOTO Our Town

In the 1940s Snap-on Tools began marketing its products in a unique way. Rather than selling tools in a retail shop, they loaded a van with the products and took them to the consumer. The practice continues today.

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A most logical partnership for Snap-on is with the auto racing industry. In 1979 Snap-on began to support auto racing. The first driver sponsored by the company was Rick Mears, who went on to become a four-time Indy 500 winner. In the 1980s Snap-on began sponsoring the Penske Racing Team. Their sponsorship of racing teams continues today.

The Jockey story While Snap-on provides tools for a small segment of the population, Jockey, on the other hand, has something for everyone.

The company began as a hosiery manufacturer in 1876 when Samuel T. Cooper of St. Joseph, Mich., sought to relieve the pain, blisters and infections that occurred on the feet of lumberjacks from their rough woolen socks.

The company continued to manufacture a better sock under the brand Black Cat Hosiery and expanded from men’s socks to include socks for women and children. Cooper’s sons, Charles, Henry and Willis joined the company and in 1898 were instrumental in moving the company to Kenosha where it began to introduce men’s underwear.

By 1902 the new manufacturing center in Kenosha was complete and White Cat underwear for men – basically a one-piece garment known as a union suit – made its appearance. This building is still in use as the Jockey International headquarters.

Men’s undergarments began to change in the 1920s with the introduction of short legged and sleeveless underwear. They began to be marketed by being encased in a cellophane bag, the first time this type of packaging was used in the underwear trade.

According to the history of Jockey International, in 1934 a major new product was designed due to the reception of a postcard with a man pictured on the French Riviera in a tight-fitting swimsuit. It was from this picture that the product known as the Jockey short was designed. The product was introduced at Marshall Field’s Department Store in Chicago where all 600 pairs were sold by noon. 12,000 more were sold in the following weeks making it the most popular men’s underwear of the time.

In 1971 Coopers officially became Jockey and then in 1972 as Jockey International. New collections continued to be added to the company and today Jockey International provides underwear, hosiery, and sportswear for men, women and children.

While Jockey does not manufacture its products in Kenosha there are two Jockey stores in the area. The Jockey Factory Store is at 5500 6th Ave., Kenosha, and a second store is in the Pleasant Prairie Outlet Mall.

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parks

Settlers Park is always a hit with the summer beach crowd. The park provides shaded picnic and lawn areas overlooking Paddock Lake, sandy beaches, shelter building, dog park, bathhouse and restroom facilities, grills, playground equipment and ample parking.

Old Settlers Park, on Highway 50, seven miles west of Interstate 94, is also home to Spencer Field, a little league ball diamond.

Entry fee charged from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend when lifeguards are on duty.

SANDRA LANDEN MACHAJ Our Town

The Kenosha County Parks System has something for everyone. For more information or to reserve park space, visit. www. co.kenosha.wi.us,

Brighton Dale Park and Golf Course Brighton Dale Park and Golf Course is just north of the intersection of Highways 75 and 142, (14 miles from the City of Kenosha), adjacent to the Bong State Recreation Area.

The 500-acre park features a 45-hole championship golf course and driving range.

Also offers beautiful wooded picnic areas, children’s playground equipment, grills, restrooms, shelter buildings, ball diamonds, nature trails, and a fishing pond.

Restrooms are located in Areas 1 and 3, and the ball fields.

Bristol Woods Park Bristol Wood Park is south of Highway C on Highway MB. The 200-acre park is the most natural of all the Kenosha County Parks and boasts 4.28 miles of hiking trails as well as a playground, grills and shelter building.

Bristol Woods is also home to the Pringle Nature Center. To learn more about the history of the PNC, view Pringle Nature Center: Putting People in Touch with Nature since 1998.

Restrooms are located in Area 1 and Pringle Nature Center.

Fox River Park Fox River Park is off Highway F, just east of Highway W. The 150-acre park is home to wooded areas, picnic areas, and playground equipment, tennis courts and ball diamonds.

The quiet waters of the Fox River meander along the eastern boundary of the park and are accessible to boaters and canoers (launching area provided along Highway F at the bridge).

A special attraction during the winter is a bermed sled slide, which provides a long and exhilarating run (weather permitting).

Artificial lighting allows night use of this popular sledding facility. Also, home to a no fee, 9-hole disc golf course. Fox River Park is home to Ray Berres Field ball diamond.

There are also two outdoor chess tables at Fox River Park located by the Fox River on north side of Highway F. These are free to the general public, but players need to bring their own pieces.

Restrooms are located in Areas 1 and 3.

KD Park KD Park is along Highway KD south of Highway 50 in Randall and Wheatland, the KD Park, a former gravel quarry, encompasses 234 acres of land and a 39acre lake.

For safety purposes, specific lake use restrictions and guidelines are being developed by the county and will be posted at the park. This park is being developed with an emphasis on sustainable living education and recreation.

Hunting permits to hunt at KD West are available from the Park Division.

Park includes a dog park, hiking trails, picnic tables, fishing, cross country skiing, and show shoeing.

Old Settlers Park The smallest county park at 17 acres, Old

Petrifying Springs Park, on Highway A, just east of Highway 31, is the flagship of the Kenosha County Parks System. Known to locals as “Pets,” the park is the oldest in the system and offers a wide range of enjoyment for people of all ages throughout the year.

The rolling landscape adds beauty as well as challenge to its 18-hole golf course. Picnic areas feature five picnic shelters, restrooms and playground areas, softball diamonds, nature trails, sand volleyball courts.

Home to one of the state’s natural hardwood forests, the fall color in both the park and on the golf course is breathtaking.

There are also two outdoor chess tables at Petrifying Springs Park: one by Parking Area 1 by the well, and another at Parking Area 4 by the river. These are free to the general public, but players need to bring their own pieces.

Restrooms are located near Areas 2, 4 and 5.

Silver Lake Park The 260-acre Silver Lake Park features one of the best sandy beaches in southeastern Wisconsin.

Swimming areas, picnic areas, bathhouse, concession stand, picnic shelters, lakeside playground equipment, soccer fields, grills, windsurfing area, sledding, snow shoeing, cross country skiing, fishing and convenient parking all combine to create a popular getaway on summer days.

Nature trails traverse the rolling landscape and reward hikers with a sweeping overview of Silver Lake and the surrounding countryside.

The park is on Highway F, one-mile south from Highway 50.

Restrooms are located in Areas 1, 4 and 6.

Kemper Center – Anderson Arts Center The Kemper Center and Anderson Arts Center is a cultural and recreational facility along the shores of Lake Michigan.

The 15 acres offer picturesque old buildings (circa 1800), floral landscaping, along with a beautiful scenic setting overlooking Lake Michigan.

Frequently the site of lawn concerts, art exhibits, retreats and weddings, the Center also offers picnic tables and a fishing pier with special accommodations to the handicapped.

The Center is at 6501 – 3rd Avenue, Kenosha.

For events or rentals at this location, visit the Kemper Center website at www. kempercenter.com, or call (262) 657-6005.

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

As the Pike Trail winds through downtown Kenosha, it runs along the lakefront providing a scenic ride of both the city and Lake Michigan.

Petrifying Springs Park

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government

For more information about the Kenosha County government and offices, visit www.co.kenosha.wi.us.

COUNTY EXECUTIVE Jim Kreuser Administrative Building 1010 56th Street Kenosha, WI 53140-3738 (262) 653-2600 CLERK Mary T. Schuch-Krebs 1010 56th St. Kenosha, WI 53140 (262) 653-2552 TREASURER Teri Jacobson (262) 653–2542

COURTS Clerk of Courts Rebecca Matoska-Mentink Kenosha County Courthouse 912 56th St. Kenosha, WI 53140 (262) 653-2664 (262) 653-2435 – Records (262) 653-2753 – Family (262) 653-2673 – Probate JUDGES Branch 1 Bastianelli Branch 2 Rossell Branch 3 Schroeder Branch 4

David M. Jason A. Bruce E. Anthony

Milisauskas Branch 5 Wilk Branch 6 Wagner Branch 7 Wilk Branch 8 Kerkman

David P. Mary S. Michael Chad G.

DISTRICT ATTORNEY Robert D. Zapf Molinaro Bldg.

(262) 653-2400 HUMAN SERVICES Kenosha Department of Human Services 8600 Sheridan Road, Suite 100 (262) 697-4500

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237684 030515

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

AGING & DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER 8600 Sheridan Road, Suite 500 (262) 605-6646 Toll Free (800) 472-8008

Division of Highways Highway Commissioner Gary Sipsma (262) 857-1870 DPW Transportation Engineer Ronald Schildt (262) 857-1860 Division of Parks & Recreation General Manager of Park Operations Jonathan Rudie (262) 857-1861 SHERIFF Sheriff David G. Beth Chief Deputy Charles R. Smith 1000 55th St. Kenosha, WI 53140 (262) 605-5100 Detective Bureau (262) 605-5102 Civil Process (262) 605-5104

PUBLIC WORKS Kenosha County Center 19600 75th St., Suite 122-1 Bristol (262) 857-1870 DPW Assistant – Wendy Epping (262) 857-1858 Chief Financial Officer – Jiim Kupfer (262) 857-1871

Consumer Protection (262) 605-5103

Division of Facilities Engineering Projects Manager Frank Martinelli (262) 857-1863 Manager – Facilities Maintenance Michael Schrandt, Michael (262) 653-2548

Detention Center 4777 88th Avenue Kenosha, WI 53144 (262) 605-5800

Division of Golf General Manager of Golf Operations Daniel Drier (262) 857-1865

Inmate Intake/Release (262) 605-5111 Conveyance Unit (262) 605-5464 WCS (262) 605-5095

Work Crew (262) 605-5925 Sheriff Dispatch (262) 653-6600 Emergency Management (262) 605-7900

Bike Shop at Southport Rigging on its 26mile Weekly Common Grounds Coffee Ride.

FREE

51. Try one of 16 different varieties of

Panini sandwiches at the iconic Tenuta’s Delicatessen, grilled in-house and served up at the outdoor grill. $5.99

52. Swim in Lake Andrea, or build a sand castle on the beach. $4-7 daily pass

53. The Kenosha Civic Veterans Parade is

July 3, with the Celebrate America festival featuring Independence Day Fireworks, July 3-4. FREE

54. Add to your fun at Bristol Woods Park.

At the on-site Pringle Nature Center, rent a GPS unit to locate Geocaches – or rent a family-friendly Explorer Backpack. $5 each rental, park admission FREE

55. 90 years ago, six horses pulled Franks Diner to Kenosha. Celebrate with the renowned Garbage Plate. $9.95+ 56. Relax and watch the sun rise over Lake Michigan. FREE

57. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of

Simmons Library – built in 1900 – every Second Saturday at 2:30 p.m. FREE

58. Come hungry. Taste of Wisconsin™ is July 29-31. FREE admission

59. The Colonial through Western Fur Trade

era of the 1650s through 1850s will come alive at Pike River Rendezvous, Aug 6-7.

FREE

60. Jerry Smith Produce and Pumpkin Farm’s popular Sweet Corn Festival has expanded to two days: Aug 13-14. FREE admission 61. Uncover local shipwreck facts and more at the Southport Light Station Museum. FREE 62. Load up the car with skateboards, scooters, roller blades, and bikes and head to Anderson Park’s 11,000 square foot concrete skatepark. FREE

History Center’s automobile exhibit. FREE

68. Cool down with a treat at Culver’s

Pleasant Prairie, while playing the large outdoor chess game (ask for the pieces at the counter). Treat prices vary; FREE to play chess

69. Make your own customized bracelet or necklace at Peacetree Originals. $5 and up

70. Cool off at the indoor RecPlex Ice Arena.

Temperature on the ice is 40 to 45 degrees. $6.50 and less to skate. $3 skate rental

66. Enjoy the beach and great swimming

at Old Settlers Park. $5 per vehicle Memorial Day – Labor Day on weekends only, otherwise FREE

found at Fusion, a Downtown performing arts venue. Some events FREE

89. At Scoops Ice Cream, ask for the Badger Brownie: two scoops of ice cream on a warm chocolate chunk brownie, with many toppings. $5.75

91. Bring the kids to the Field Station inside the Kenosha Public Museum, where they can explore the arts and sciences in this popular hands-on activity area. FREE

73. You’ll find entertainment for all ages at

92. Labor Day weekend includes Cheese-APalooza (Sept 3-4), the Downtown Kenosha Classic Cruise-In Car Show (Sept 3), and the 14th Annual Car Show To Benefit Our Wounded Warriors (Sept 4). FREE for spectators

of Harborside Common Grounds, watch Kenosha Community Sailing Center lessons taking place in the harbor. Prices vary the Kenosha County Fair, Aug 17-21. $9 and under

74. The Kansas City Barbecue Society BBQ Competition and more take place at Grill Games, Aug 26-27. FREE for spectators 75. Let the kids cool off with a visit to

93. All ages enjoy getting artsy at Alpaca Art Pottery Painting. $7 studio fee plus the cost of your pottery ($3+)

76. Create art in the Clay Studio at Lemon

94. At NovelTea Bookstore, you can

HarborPark’s splash pad area. FREE

Street Gallery. Clay costs $3 per pound

77. Also see incredible art at Re:Vision

Gallery, Pollard Gallery, Anderson Arts Center, Kenosha Art Association, Carthage College, and UW-Parkside. FREE

78. Enjoy a scenic bike ride on the Pike Bike Trail or the Kenosha County Bike Trail. FREE

79. Mikey’s features a new menu with

gourmet Hot Dogs, create-your-own pizza, and more. Prices vary

80. Find your favorite childhood video game and try it out at Inner Child Comics and Collectibles. Many under $10 / FREE to try

64. More than a popcorn and ice cream

with sales, live entertainment and family activities in Downtown Kenosha. Many FREE activities

88. A slice of Kenosha nightlife can be

72. As you sip a cool beverage on the deck

pharmacy that offers natural products and gifts, including a variety of essential oils. $8.44+ for essential oils

82. Pick up a homemade Bloody Mary mix or lemonade mix at Elsie Mae’s Canning and Pies, who offer more than pies and jams. $6.50/$8.50

65. Each month, enjoy Second Saturdays

Lighthouse. FREE

90. Aspiring young paleontologists will dig this: Dino Digs are held most Saturday and Sunday afternoons at the Dinosaur Discovery Museum. FREE

81. Exhibitors bring samples, brochures, giveaways, and smiles to the I-94 Visitor Information Center for First Fridays. FREE

shop, Sandy’s Popper also offers cotton candy, nostalgic candies, and more. Nostalgic candies start around 10¢

87. Take a selfie by the red 1906 Pierhead

71. Modern Apothecary is a locally owned

63. Kenosha County FairSit back and enjoy the scenery as you take the METRA train from Chicago to Kenosha. Unlimited ride $8 weekend pass

an Abraham Lincoln statue, as well as the Kenosha County Soldiers’ Monument “Winged Victory”. FREE

purchase 2 oz. packaged loose leaf tea in a variety of flavors. Most under $10; average price $7

95. Meet internationally-known cartoonists during the Kenosha Festival of Cartooning, Sept 15-17. FREE 96. Enjoy a picnic at Wolfenbuttel Park, next to Lake Michigan. FREE

97. Electric Streetcars are celebrated during

Kenosha Streetcar Day on Sept 17. $1 or less fare

98. You can’t go to Brat Stop without having the Famous Charcoal Grill Original Bratwurst served with chips. $6.99 99. You’ll find the Lilli Soapworks product line at A Summer’s Garden Florist. These soaps are handmade in Kenosha with shea butter. $5.50 100. Enjoy a delicious made-from-scratch soup in the outdoor Garden of Eatin’ at The Coffee Pot. $2-4

83. Hike 4.2 miles of trails at KD Park. FREE 101. The famous “backroom” offers amazing 84. Checkmate. Play chess or checkers at savings at the Jockey Factory Store in the chess tables in Fox River Park; bring your own pieces. FREE

85. Take time to enjoy the distinctive wall

murals, unique hand-painted storefront signs, and amazing historic architecture in Downtown Kenosha. FREE

86. Visit Abe. Library Park is home to

2016 KENOSHA OUR TOWN

from page 2 50. On Saturday mornings, you can join the 67. Go “Back To The 20s” at the Kenosha

Downtown Kenosha. Get a $10 off coupon in the FREE 2016 Kenosha Area Visitors Guide Prices reflected are accurate at the time of printing and subject to change. Prices do not include tax.

Courtesy of the Kenosha Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, visit www.visitkenosha.com.

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