Category: Remember When

150 Years Ago: From the Jan. 7, 1875 Shakopee Argus

The “American House” barely escaped being destroyed by fire on Tuesday last, owing to a defective flue. One straw bed was burned, when it was discovered and the fire extinguished.

125 Years Ago: From the Jan. 4, 1900 Scott County Argus

The new engine is being put in place in the Jacob Ries Bottling works this week. It is double the power of the old one and will add much to the efficiency of the manufacturing department.

125 Years Ago: From the Jan. 5, 1900 Shakopee Tribune

Henry Mergens has severed his connection with E. J. Gellenbeck, where he has been employed as foreman in the tin and repair shop for the 15 years past. He has not decided as to what he will do in the future but intends to follow up his trade. The long experience and practice has made him a peer in that profession. We sincerely wish him success in his future occupation.

100 Years Ago: From the Jan. 9, 1925 Shakopee Argus

The Shakopee A. C.’s will meet a speedy aggregation in the South St. Paul Hook ’Em Cows on the Dawson floor Sunday afternoon. Both teams have kept intact during the holidays and have gotten in strenuous practice and both are expected to do exceptional work in Sunday’s game. January 11th is the date and 2:30 P. M. the time.

100 Years Ago: From the Jan. 8, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

John A. Duffy to Open Law Office in Shakopee

Shakopee now can boast of a new lawyer, as John A. Duffy, who has resided in Savage, this county, practically all of his life, opened an office in the Southworth Block today. Mr. Duffy is well known to all of our readers especially those who reside in Scott County and he has a host of friends who wish him the best of success in his new professional venture…

75 Years Ago: From the Jan. 5, 1950 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Miklethun Moves to New Location on First Street

Miklethun Motors has moved to its new location in the former Anderson garage building on E. First street.

Although the planned remodelling of the structure will not be completed until later, the mechanical department is in full operation, Larry Miklethun, owner, said this week.

The present staff, which includes Harold Huss and Cyril Sames, has been augmented by the addition of August Schesso, who was formerly employed in the Anderson garage. The service department has been expanded…

75 Years Ago: From the Jan. 5, 1950 Shakopee Valley News

Night Parking on Streets Illegal

Motorists were asked not to park their cars at night on the streets in Shakopee’s business district during the winter by Edgar Bolz, street superintendent and R. G. “Pat” Theilen, chief of police. They pointed out that it is not only seriously interferes with the work of the snow removal crews but also violates a city ordinance. If necessary, tow trucks will be called to tow the cars away with the owner getting assessed the costs.

50 Years Ago: From the Jan. 8, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

To open Shakopee office

H & R Block, Inc., America’s largest income tax service announced this week the opening of an office at 415 1st Avenue in Shakopee. The firm operates over 6,000 offices throughout the United States and Canada.

Manager of the Shakopee office, Donald L. Mueller, is a Minneapolis native with three years of income tax experience as a consultant…

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

Problems delay renovation of county courthouse

Although the link between the new Scott County Justice Center and the old Government Center has been opened, the renovation of the first phase of the 26-year-old building is running behind schedule.

Depending on what facets of the first phase of the $3.7 million construction project are examined, construction is anywhere from four to 10 weeks behind schedule, said county Deputy Administrator Gary Shelton.

The main causes of the delays, Shelton said, involve unforeseen mechanical problems and also materials which have taken far longer to deliver and install than previously anticipated…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Dec. 31, 1874 Shakopee Argus

The school house in the town of Jackson (Dist. No. 58) burned down on Tuesday night. It was insured and the actual loss will be small.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 28, 1899 Scott County Argus

The employes of the Minnesota Stove company are enjoying a vacation of ten days covering the holidays. This is the first shut-down of the foundry for many months, hence the rest is not an unwelcome one to the large number of workmen employed therein.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 29, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

The Lutheran congregation had a large and beautifully decorated tree displayed at their church Sunday and Christmas evening. The exercises on the first evening’s program were in the German and on the final night in the English language. The church was, on both occasions, filled to the last seat.

100 Years Ago: From the Jan. 2, 1925 Shakopee Argus

Two more gifts were awarded last Wednesday evening to those holding the lucky numbers were a floor lamp, given by the Scherkenbach Hardware and Electric Supply, which was won by Harvey Ince. The lamp is a beauty and much appreciated as a gift. The other gift was a twelve piece silver set (knives and forks) awarded to Mrs. John Hirscher and presented by Fred Berens. The gifts are both useful and attractive and more than one, no doubt, is hoping for better luck next time.

100 Years Ago: From the Jan. 1, 1925 Shakopee Tribune

Skating Rink Now Open to the Public

The Shakopee community skating rink on Shakopee Avenue was opened to the public last Friday evening. The rink is a very fine one and is being greatly enjoyed by followers of the sport…

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 29, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Movie Shown for Reform Inmates

Inmates and officers of the state reformatory for women were treated to their annual Christmas movie party Monday afternoon at the Shakopee theatre, as guests of Dr. F. H. Buck, institution physician.

Thursday evening the annual Christmas party was held for inmates and their officers, and last Wednesday evening a joint program was presented by the Presbyterian church and the institutional choirs…

Reformatory officials announced there would be other entertainment scheduled for the inmates this week.

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 29, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

Sgt. Moriarty Has Audience With Pope

M/Sgt. Patrick Moriarty, Shakopee soldier on duty with the occupation forces in Germany, was granted an audience with Pope Pius at the Vatican on December 8, it was learned in Shakopee this week.

He was granted a 20 minute audience with the Holy Father, the report indicated. Subject of the audience was the welfare of the German Youth.

He was given two rosaries that had been blessed by the Pope…

50 Years Ago: From the Jan. 1, 1975 Shakopee Valley News

Scott County to have own mental health center in 1975

The Scott-Carver Mental Health Center will cease to exist as of December 31, 1974. In its place two new agencies will appear, one center located in each county.

Negotiations are currently underway with staff members at the current center regarding their transfer to either the Carver County unit or the Scott County unit.

On Tuesday of last week, Scott County commissioners appointed a new Mental Health Board, an interim board that will function until the state approves the Scott County Human Service Plan.

25 Years Ago: From the Dec. 30, 1999 Shakopee Valley News

City buys land, hoping to lure businesses west

If you’re a developer looking for, say, 26.42 acres for a new or relocating business, the City of Shakopee wants to talk to you.

Hoping to entice commercial development to the west side of the city, the City Council, by a 4-1 vote on Dec. 7, approved the purchase of an additional 2.84-acre parcel for $95,100.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) had acquired the land for possible right-of-way prior to the construction of Highway 169 south of Shakopee Town Square. The parcel — which formerly was the site of Gopher State Truck Stop – along with the 23.58 acres the council unanimously voted to purchase earlier this fall, gives the city just over 26 acres with highway frontage. The council’s hope is that the land is attractive enough to entice a commercial developer…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Dec. 24, 1874 Shakopee Argus

Mr. John Berens and E. J. Gellenbeck, two enterprising young men of this city, have opened a dry goods and notion store, where they will be pleased to see their friends and give them the advantages of good bargains. See adv’t in another column.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 21, 1899 Scott County Argus

John Bally, the aged medicine peddler, was examined in the Probate Court, yesterday afternoon, before Drs. Smith and Reiter, and committed to the hospital for the insane at St. Peter.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 22, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

The new Presbyterian church is now nearly completed and is a very neat appearing and quite a roomy structure.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 26, 1924 Shakopee Argus

Shakopee Folks Join Radio Circle

Mr. and Mrs. A. B. Bandy of Shakopee have been elected charter members of “Radio Farmers Democracy,” the national radio farm organization sponsored by the Agricultural Foundation Broadcasting Station W LS, according to word received here.

The club, which will be conducted from the firesides of its members much as a farm bureau is conducted in community halls, will meet over the radio every Tuesday evening at eight o’clock to deal with farm problems as they arise. The sole obligation of membership is the pledge to give one’s best thought toward the solution of the many difficulties confronting American agriculture.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 25, 1924 Shakopee Tribune

Local Girl Pictured in Advertisement

Last Sunday’s rotogravure section of the Minneapolis Tribune carried an advertisement of the Minneapolis School of Beauty Culture in which the pictures of all of the latest graduates of the school were reproduced. These pictures were arranged very effectively about the ad as decorations on a Christmas tree.

Among these pictures was the likeness of Miss Regina Budde of this city, who recently completed a three months’ course at the school. Miss Budde informs us that she intends to remain at her home in Shakopee until she receives employment in a place that is reasonably close to Shakopee, which would make frequent visits here possible.

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 22, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Benefit Cage Game Planned

To help raise funds to purchase new uniforms for the Shakopee high school basketball team, a group of former local cage stars will meet the high school regulars in a benefit game in the auditorium Tuesday night, Dec. 27, it was announced.

Although the roster of the alumni team has not been disclosed, men promoting the event said the string will include players who held the spotlight as far back as 1926.

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 22, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

Commercial Club Pledges Support Special School Bond Election Here

By a unanimous vote, the members of the Shakopee Commercial club adopted the report of the special 20 man school committee and pledged their unqualified support when the school question is again placed before the voters early next year.

The action came at the annual meeting of the group. R. D. Johnson, owner of the Gamble Store, was named president of the club for 1950 by a unanimous vote. He succeeds Jim Covington who steps down December 31…

25 Years Ago: From the Dec. 23, 1999 Shakopee Valley News

City among metro housing leaders

Shakopee was among the Twin Cities metropolitan-area leaders in new housing starts in November, according to the Builders Association of the Twin Cities.

Lakeville topped the list for the month with 56 permits issued, followed by Woodbury with 47, and Maple Grove with 41. Buffalo recorded 93 planned units for the month, followed by Shakopee with 87.

For the first 11 months of the year, Woodbury continued to be the leader among suburbs with 733 permits issued for 1,592 units. Lakeville was second in permits with 623, but fifth in the number of units with 690. Maple Grove was third in permits and units with 527 and 805 respectively. Shakopee was second in units with 946, but fifth in permits with 417. Blaine was fourth in both categories, with 443 permits and 693 planned units…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Dec. 17, 1874 Shakopee Argus

The new Union Depot is finished and is now occupied by the agents of the two companies, telegraph operators, &c. It is finished up in fine style inside and out, and is conveniently arranged both for employees and travelers.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 14, 1899 Scott County Argus

Henry C. Schroeder has moved his office, that of the City Recorder, from H. J. Peck’s office in the How block to Julius A. Coller’s office over the First National Bank.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 15, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

Wm. F. Duffy has already improved the appearance of his grocery store and is now adding new store furniture and fixtures which all goes to show the spirit of the new proprietor.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 19, 1924 Shakopee Argus

P. W. Moore, who has been conducting a general wood work shop in this city for some time past has suspended operations, for the present at least, and has gone to Hastings where he will do mill wright work for the King Midas Mill Co. that is being operated there under the able supervision of H. F. Betow, formerly of this city. Mr. Moore left Monday, but his family will remain in Shakopee indefinitely.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 18, 1924 Shakopee Tribune

Leo Huss Is Issued Patent on Pump Jack

Leo J. Huss of this city, who designed, made and is manufacturing a pump jack invented by him some time ago, was issued a patent on his invention by the National Patent Office at Washington, D. C., under date of December 8.

Tuesday evening’s Minneapolis Journal carried a list of Minnesota inventors to whom patents were issued by the patent office on December 9. Leo J. Huss of this city listed among these inventors to whom patents were issued.

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 15, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

4 Rinks to Open to City Skaters

Four municipal skating rinks will be ready by next Sunday if the present cold weather continues. Two of the rinks, started Monday by James Rein, overseer of parks, will be located in the Recreational park. One will be on Shakopee avenue between the Novak and Dreese properties, and another in Holmes park.

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 15, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

Stemmer New Manager Of Indians As Shakopee Enters River League

By a vote of the league directors, Shakopee and Chaska were admitted to the Minnesota River league for the 1950 season. Addition of the two teams will make that league a ten team loop.

Long stalwarts of the Minnesota Valley league, the move of Chaska and Shakopee to the River loop should prove a popular measure with fans in this area, inasmuch as Shakopee and Chaska have more traditional rivalry with River teams than they do with Valley teams.

At the same time, Joseph Hirscher, president of the Shakopee Recreational Association, announced that Warren Stemmer will manage the Shakopee Indians next year assisted by W. B. “Rip” Schroeder…

50 Years Ago: From the Dec. 18, 1974 Shakopee Valley News

Tahpah Park beginning to assume final form

Tahpah Park, an on-going project of the Shakopee Jaycees, is beginning to assume its final form after a full work program carried on through the summer and fall months.

It is expected that three softball diamonds will be ready for play in the early summer of 1975, depending upon the type of spring weather experienced here and the scheduling of play in various leagues…

Future plans call for a football field and a baseball diamond at the Tahpah Park site. Work on those facilities is in the early stages…

25 Years Ago: From the Dec. 16, 1999 Shakopee Valley News

School district’s fund balance dips

While the audit report for the 1998-99 school year revealed few surprises, Shakopee School Board members on Monday expressed some concern over the dwindling general fund balance.

Accountant Daryl DeKane presented an overview of the district’s key financial statistics for the last fiscal year. The audit report revealed that the district ended the year June 30 with an unreserved balance of just over $1 million, which translates to about 4.3 percent of the $23.6 million operating budget. The board target is to end each year find funds totaling 8 percent of the budget to carry over to the next year…

Superintendent Bob Ostlund said that part of the reason for the dip is that the district started out the last school year with less state funding than anticipated, particularly in the areas of special education and teacher training.

As the board begins planning for next year’s budget, “our goal will be to build [the balance] back up,” Ostlund assured.

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Dec. 10, 1874 Shakopee Argus

Santa Claus has made an assignment to Schroeder.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 7, 1899 Scott County Argus

Rev. A. W. Wright spent Monday and Tuesday in Minneapolis, looking after the stained glass windows which are to adorn the new Presbyterian church. All the windows in the auditorium will be of stained glass, and there will be two memorial windows, one for the Rev. Samuel W. Pond, and the other for Mrs. Julia A. Lord, and also a Christian Endeavor window containing the C. E. monogram and the society word “Mizpah.” The windows will be ready for shipment by the 20th, and it is thought that it will be possible to hold the Christmas services in the new church.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 8, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

At Nic Mechtel’s confectionery store you make your own prices this season. Going out of business and everything must be sold.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 12, 1924 Shakopee Argus

A huge snow plow made its first appearance this season, in town Wednesday morning. Four busses operated by the Boulevard Co. were stalled on highway No. 5, late Monday evening and were not released until the snow plow had cleared the way the following morning. It was a monstrous machine, being no more informed, about eight feet high and eighteen feet wide.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 11, 1924 Shakopee Tribune

Thermometer Drops 34 Degrees in Two Days

The weather man is now dishing out real old-fashioned Minnesota December weather as the thermometer dropped 34 degrees from Monday until Wednesday. According to the weather report furnished us by Strunk’s Drug Store, the thermometer registered 24 above last Monday and dropped to 10 below Wednesday. While this is quite severe weather for December 10th, it is not as cold as it was on the same date five and seven years ago, as on December 10, 1917, the thermometer registered 20 below and on the same date in 1919, 18 below…

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 8, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Miklethun Buys Anderson Garage

In a transaction completed here last Week, Lawrence Miklethun purchased the garage business formerly operated by James Anderson.

Miklethun, who now operates a Pontiac agency and garage, will continue the agency in his new location and expects to complete the move this month. He also contemplates extensive remodelling work for early spring.

Anderson, who has been the Buick agent here for several years, following his return from military service, said Tuesday that he had no plans for the immediate future.

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 8, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

County Historical Society Organized

The Scott County Historical Society was revived Thursday evening, December 1st, 1949, in the Commissioner’s Room at the Court House in Shakopee, in a meeting that was called for that purpose through the efforts of Archer Grahn of the Minnesota State Historical Society. About twenty men and women were present…

50 Years Ago: From the Dec. 11, 1974 Shakopee Valley News

Program to prevent shoplifting

Members of the Shakopee Senior High’s Distributive Education Clubs of America presented a program on shoplifting to all the 4th, 5th and 6th graders at the public elementaries.

The presentation, part of S.T.E.M. – Shoplifting Takes Everybody’s Money, gave students facts on shoplifting. DECA members gave a sit on what happens to shoplifters and Shakopee police officers were also present to tell students what happens to those who are caught stealing…

25 Years Ago: From the Dec. 9, 1999 Shakopee Valley News

County maps out five-year, $28 million road plans

Although there are plenty of potential potholes yet to clear before the construction crews start their work, Scott County is considering $28 million in highway and bridge capital improvement projects (CIP) over the next five years.

But county officials concede the proposed improvements to a 350-mile transportation system aren’t nearly enough to keep up with needs of a county whose population growth has far exceeded expectations.

Of the 70 miles of county roads that are 50 years or older, 44 are not slated for improvements in the next five years. Of the 102 miles of roads that are 30 to 50 years old, 95 are not scheduled for work between 2000 and 2004.

Scott County Engineer Brad Larson said the reason is simple: Money…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Dec. 3, 1874 Shakopee Argus

The Railroad Commissioners in view of the numerously signed petition of citizens in the Minnesota Valley, have determined that the Mankato Express shall run as heretofore, and that the fare be increased to five cents a mile upon the road.

125 Years Ago: From the Nov. 30, 1899 Scott County Argus

The mill warehouse which has stood for years alongside the switchtracks of the Milwaukee road is being cut apart and removed to its site west of the mill and alongside the new sidetrack. Aug. Woehling & Co. are doing the work.

125 Years Ago: From the Dec. 1, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

Master Walter Huth, the 5 year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Huth had the misfortune of being kicked in the face by one of their horses last Friday. His upper lip was cut so that the doctor had to put in three stitches and his face was otherwise badly bruised.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 5, 1924 Shakopee Argus

New Music Shoppe

A music shoppe that will be a delight to all music lovers is the promise made by August (Skinny) Krueger and Art Pass. These enterprising and progressive young men will open their place of business the first part of next week, the location being the store recently vacated by Fred Berens in the Berens block.

They will handle a complete line of Brunswick phonographs, including Brunswick and Columbia records and sheet music. Later in the season other makes of machines will be added. It is a pleasure to note the energy and vim displayed by these young men and we trust that their success may be complete.

100 Years Ago: From the Dec. 4, 1924 Shakopee Tribune

Work on Skating Rink Is Progressing Steadily

The skating rink being constructed on the Marx lots at Lewis Street and Shakopee Avenue is now nearing completion. A warming house has been built on the location and lighting fixtures installed…

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 1, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Legionnaires Remodel Club

Armed with hammers, pinch bars and saws, a group of volunteer Legionnaires began the job of remodeling and renovating the Legion club Tuesday night.

According to R. J. Mertz, commander, plans provide for moving a partition between the present bar room and small meeting room and moving the bar from its present location to the north room. The present barroom is to become the lobby and lounge.

Sale of a piece of property 45 feet by 60 feet on the north side of the club to the Northwestern Bell Telephone company is also contemplated, Mertz said.

Other plans call for painting and redecorating, and general improvement of the facilities offered at the club.

75 Years Ago: From the Dec. 1, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

New Heating Plant In Lutheran Church

Work on the installation of a new two burner gas furnace in St. John Lutheran church is nearing completion. The job necessitated the installation of new hot and cold air ducts for an entirely new heating system.

50 Years Ago: From the Dec. 4, 1974 Shakopee Valley News

MCIW will lose POP program in December

On May 1, POP (Property Offender Program) was conceived at the Minnesota Correctional Institution for Women. It was to be a pilot program lasting three to six months; at the expiration of that period of time, program evaluation would take place…

“It is the recommendation of the State Department of Corrections that, as of December, our POP program will be integrated into the program at Lino Lakes,” chief administrator Jackie Fleming said this week.

Shifting of the program has a two-fold purpose, according to Ms. Fleming. First, Lino Lakes will integrate the Shakopee program into an existing program for pre-release residents and, secondly, economic factors were considered.

“By transferring the POP program, we will be able to cut staff, close a cottage and save money,” Ms. Fleming said. Approximately 10 women will be affected by the transfer of the program. Eight staff members, all part-time relief persons, will be dismissed.

Loss of the program will create a change in emphasis at MCIW, where historically the majority of women committed had been sentenced because of property offenses. During a period from July, 1972 to December, 1973, 66 percent of all admissions were property offenders…

25 Years Ago: From the Dec. 2, 1999 Shakopee Valley News

Shakopee listed among housing-starts leaders

In October, Shakopee was again among the new-housing growth leaders in the Twin Cities Metropolitan area suburbs, according to the Builders Association of the Twin Cities.

Woodbury continued its role as the housing-starts leader in the Twin Cities for October, with 65 permits issued for 142 units.

Blaine was second for the month with 51 permits for 140 units, followed by Maple Grove with 49 permits and 102 units and Shakopee, with 48 permits for 76 units…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Nov. 26, 1874 Shakopee Argus

United States Hotel.—This large and commodious hotel (situated near the Union Depot) is now finished. Mr. August Logefeil, the proprietor, will throw it open to the public on Sunday afternoon next, by giving a Free Lunch.

125 Years Ago: From the Nov. 23, 1899 Scott County Argus

The school officers of the First ward school have purchased one hundred volumes of up-to-date literature as a nucleus for a fine school library. The library is housed in a handsome bookcase made by F. X. Hirscher & Sons, and the whole makes a very useful and ornamental addition to the equipment of the schools.

125 Years Ago: From the Nov. 24, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

Wm. T. Duffy has bought the grocery stock of James McKown and will from now be weighing sugar and coffee and measure syrup, vinegar etc. William is a popular young man well known throughout the county as well as in the city and will undoubtedly renew life at the old familiar grocery stand on Lewis street.

100 Years Ago: From the Nov. 28, 1924 Shakopee Argus

Redman Buys Milk Route

A business deal this week of interest to local people was the purchase of Joseph Koeper’s milk route by the Redman Ice Cream Company of this city. Joseph Koeper and his father before him have operated this milk route in Shakopee continuously for nearly half a century and Mr. Koeper’s retirement will remove from the daily business activities of the town an ever jovial and familiar figure…

100 Years Ago: From the Nov. 27, 1924 Shakopee Tribune

The window of Boyd Bowdish confectionery is always very interesting. With each successive holiday the window is decorated in a manner appropriately representing the specific holiday which is near at hand. It is at present decked with corn stalks, fruit and pumpkins, while two dolls, dressed in Pilgrim style, complete the effective trimming.

75 Years Ago: From the Nov. 24, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Night School Courses for Grade Teachers Proposed

At the suggestion of Scott and Carver county elementary grade school teachers who are eager to hasten the completion of their two or four-year college courses, plans have been completed for conducting night school classes in the counties under state teacher college supervision it was learned this week.

Arrangements for the proposed 12-week course have been made by B. A. Herzog, Scott county superintendent of schools, and R. W. Siewert, superintendent of schools of Carver county, in co-operation with Mankato State Teachers college…

75 Years Ago: From the Nov. 24, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

Friswold Confers With Local School Groups

L. A. Friswold, director of public buildings and business administration of the state department of education, conferred with the special 20 man Shakopee Commercial Club school committee and with members of the board of education here Monday night.

He conferred with two groups upon their invitation as they again considered the urgent school housing crisis in the community. Another meeting of the committee will be held December 3, and the school board is awaiting their report to the Commercial Club December 20 before proceeding further with plans to solve the school situation.

The meeting, informal, developed into a question and answer session, as the members freely questioned Friswold on school matters. Considerable ground was covered as questions ranged through a variety of subjects including new building on the present site, new elementary building on a new site, fixing up the present building for a high school, and consolidation of outlying districts.

50 Years Ago: From the Nov. 27, 1974 Shakopee Valley News

Toro plant under way

Construction is in full swing at the future site of the Toro Manufacturing Company’s new dye casting plant to be located in Valley Conter for Industry. Unseasonably warm weather has facilitated much of the early work. Pilings, footings and some foundation work has already been completed. Developers expect to complete construction in the summer of ‘75, with plant production beginning in the fall of that year.

25 Years Ago: From the Nov. 25, 1999 Shakopee Valley News

5% annual gain in enrollment over decade predicted

Enrollment in Shakopee Public Schools is expected to increase an average of 5 percent each year for the next 10 years, climbing from just over 3,600 students today to 5,700 by 2009…

The annual census and enrollment projection is based on a mathematical model which uses historical data from the past five years to predict future trends. The model is recommended by the state Department of Children, Families and Learning, and has been used by the district since the early 1970s…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Nov. 19, 1874 Shakopee Argus

The Hotel de Flaherty, better known as the County Jail, is blessed (?) with some boarders who display considerable musical talent, and since the accommodating landlord has given them an opportunity to exhibit their skill, it has so affected our county officials that it is reported they intend to join one of the “Clubs” and attend all the dances of the season.

125 Years Ago: From the Nov. 16, 1899 Scott County Argus

As will be seen from a perusal of the council proceedings of this week, a proposition has been submitted to the city by a Mr. Armstrong to build an electric light plant midway between the cities of Shakopee and Chaska, to supply both cities with light. On the face of it this looks like a favorable proposition, and if, as seems now to be the case, the city is prepared to take up the use of electrical light during the next year, the scheme proposed should meet with careful consideration on the part of the city fathers.

125 Years Ago: From the Nov. 17, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

A telephone line is now spoken of between here and Marystown. Shall we get the connection or will we idly stand by and let some other town make the connection and get the trade. Marystown wants connection with Shakopee and are waiting to see if we want them.

100 Years Ago: From the Nov. 21, 1924 Shakopee Argus

Howard Dellwo will begin an engagement tomorrow to play nightly with an eight-piece orchestra in Minneapolis, and plans to continue his work here as usual during the day with Radamacher and Kirkeby.

100 Years Ago: From the Nov. 20, 1924 Shakopee Tribune

Fred Berens Now Occupying New Building

The new store building on First street, which was recently built by Fred Rohlfs and his crew of builders, for Fred C. Berens, is now completed and Mr. Berens is in the process of moving his merchandise from the building that he formerly occupied on Holmes street to his new store building…

75 Years Ago: From the Nov. 17, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

School Study Committee To Hear Building Expert

Further discussion and study of Shakopee’s public school problem will be undertaken Monday night when I. O. Friswold, director of building and business administration of the state department of education, meets with the 20-man committee of the Shakopee commercial club Monday night.

Mr. Friswold is coming to Shakopee at the invitation of the committee which is seeking a way to provide adequate school facilities for the children of the community. The meeting is to be held in the high school library at 8 o’clock…

75 Years Ago: From the Nov. 17, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

PTA To Sponsor Open House At Shakopee Public School Monday Evening, November 28

The Shakopee Parent-Teachers association will sponsor an open house at the Shakopee public schools Monday evening, November 28 starting at 7 p.m.

All the teachers will be in their classrooms, and parents and friends of the education system in Shakopee are urged to attend this annual event.

A visit to the Open House will enable a person to obtain a good view of the actual conditions that the children and teachers must work under in the present school structure. A $10 check will be presented to the class having the most parents register…

50 Years Ago: From the Nov. 19, 1974 Shakopee Valley News

Shakopee designated a bi-centennial community

The American Revolutionary Bi-Centennial Administration notified Congressman Ancher Nelsen today that Shakopee has been designated as a Bi-Centennial Community.

Nelsen said over 16,050 cities and towns across the country have so far received the distinction.

In order to qualify a community must have subjected an approved plan for celebrating the nation’s 200th birthday on July 4, 1976.

Communities so designated are expected to emphasize their heritage in a special way, and to prepare some lasting reminder of the Bi-Centennial celebration such as construct a new public building or establish a new park…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.

150 Years Ago: From the Nov. 12, 1874 Shakopee Argus

At the “pound reception” last evening about 100 of the friends of Rev. S. T. Sterrett were made happy in each leaving their “pound.”

125 Years Ago: From the Nov. 9, 1899 Scott County Argus

The Jacob Ries Bottling works are brilliant with lights every evening of late. Owing to the rush incident to the close of the shipping season in carbonated beverages, the force has been obliged to work from three to four hours overtime to keep up with the order department.

125 Years Ago: From the Nov. 10, 1899 Shakopee Tribune

The old Wagner black-smith shop in the rear of Lander opera house has this week been changed into a paint shop. Peter Paul proprietor.

100 Years Ago: From the Nov. 14, 1924 Shakopee Argus

Dr. A. C. Riemer of this city was one of the prize winners in the letter writing contest held recently by the Minnesota Motor Bus Association.

100 Years Ago: From the Nov. 13, 1924 Shakopee Tribune

Helen Huber, little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ed Huber of this city, was taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in St. Paul, Monday, there to undergo an operation on her ears. We have not learned as yet the doctor’s analysis of the case, but have been informed that the little girl is getting along as well as can be expected.

75 Years Ago: From the Nov. 10, 1949 Shakopee Argus-Tribune

Legion Post to Take Over Club, Commander Says

A decision to incorporate and take over the assets and liability of the Legion club was reached by the Shakopee American Legion post at its monthly meeting Monday night, R. J. Mertz, commander, disclosed.

Since the inception of the Legion club it has been operated and directed by a house committee composed of Legionnaires who were stockholders int eh club, but the place has always been at the disposal of the post and its members.

Details of the new arrangement or the date on which it becomes effective were not announced, but it was disclosed that a concerted drive for funds to carry out the plan will soon get under way.

75 Years Ago: From the Nov. 10, 1949 Shakopee Valley News

Mail Poll Results In 4 To 1 Vote Against Hiring Third Policeman

With about half the persons polled returning cards, opinion in Shakopee is about four to one against employing a third policeman at this time, Elmer Dahl, of the Police Civil Service Commission, told the city council Tuesday evening.

Appearing before the regular monthly council meeting, Dahl disclosed that preliminary returns in the informal mail poll show 328 persons against hiring another policeman with only 80 voting in the affirmative…

50 Years Ago: From the Nov. 13, 1974 Shakopee Valley News

Retailers announce association with new Minnesota Valley Mall

Watson Centers, Inc. announced today that the Minnesota Valley Mall Shopping Center is now more than 50 percent leased. In addition to the 50 percent already signed for, another 30,000 sq. ft. is committed to retailers.

The enclosed, air conditioned center contains total retail space of 135,000 square feet and an overall building size of 157,000 square feet.

The focal point of the enclosed mall will be a center court area accented and enhanced by a large skylight and the generous use of laminated wood beams and brick.

Living plants, benches and accent lighting will further add to the warm, inviting atmosphere of the enclosed mall.

With the cold Minnesota winters the enclosed mall is of particular significance to the shopper’s comfort.

Major tenants that have been announced previously includes a 20,000 sq. ft. Juba’s Super Valu store and a 19,000 sq. ft. Promart Home Center…

25 Years Ago: From the Nov. 11, 1999 Shakopee Valley News

Shakopee region headquarters for the 2000 census

The year 2000 will be all about numbers.

Not because of dreaded computer glitches that may be more hype than reality, but because of people. The U.S. Census Bureau wants to count each and every one of us next year.

On Tuesday, the regional Census Bureau held an open house at its headquarters in downtown Shakopee. The Shakopee office in River City Centre is a regional base for the census in 29 Minnesota counties, spanning from the southwestern corner of the state to the southeastern corner…

Interested in local history? Find even more at the Shakopee Heritage Society website.