December 1952
- charliebunton
- Nov 14, 2025
- 5 min read
The brisk December winds carried the final sounds of industry across Calcite's harbor as the Str. W.F. White, her hull heavy with stone, made her last approach through the cold waters already touched by winter's chill. The familiar hum of conveyor belts at the plant ceased, replaced by the lonely calls of gulls and the gentle creaking of mooring lines as the Bradley Transportation Line fleet settled into their winter berths, their steel hulls softly groaning with contentment after months of hard work. The air was thick with the scent of limestone dust mingled with diesel fumes and lake water, while the harbor's surface mirrored the gray December sky like hammered pewter, creating a somber yet beautiful backdrop to the end of another industrious season.
Inside the St. Ignatius banquet hall, warmth and camaraderie filled every corner as employees gathered for their annual Christmas party, a cherished tradition that brought together the community in celebration. The rich aroma of roasted meats, savory vegetables, and freshly baked rolls, lovingly prepared by the church ladies, mingled with the rich scent of coffee and lively conversation. Plant Manager Joseph Valentin, known for his warm demeanor and leadership, served as toastmaster for the evening, guiding the festivities with a blend of humor and heartfelt gratitude. Group singing was enjoyed with Mrs. Valentin at the piano, her skilled fingers dancing across the keys as familiar carols filled the air, bringing smiles and nostalgia to the faces of those present.
As part of the evening's festivities, attendees received tokens of appreciation: elegant compacts for the ladies and practical pocket secretaries for the men, each item a small gesture of gratitude for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. In the precious weeks ahead, employees would have time to spend with friends and family around crackling fires and tinsel-draped Christmas trees before winter stripping and repair work resumed on January 5, allowing them to recharge and reconnect with loved ones during this festive season.
In other plant news, a significant change was announced as Irvin L. Clymer, the esteemed President of Michigan Limestone, revealed his retirement plans after years of dedicated service. The leadership transition was set in motion with Executive Vice President Hugh S. Lewis named as his successor, a choice that brought a mixture of excitement and anticipation for the future direction of the company.
Meanwhile, Rogers City welcomed a new business this month with the grand opening of Daugherty's Furniture in the new Bruski building on Third Street, a location that had once housed the Milliken Chevrolet dealership. The old structure was demolished to make way for a modern two-story building, designed to attract customers with its contemporary aesthetic. The lower floor of the new building boasts an impressive 5,600 square feet of space entirely dedicated to the furniture business, making it one of the largest furniture stores in northern Michigan. The interior is fully fluorescent-lit, ensuring that every corner of the store is bright and inviting, while 44 feet of glass display windows allow passersby to glimpse the stylish offerings within. The recessed entrance adds a touch of sophistication, welcoming customers into a world of beautiful furnishings.
Basil Daugherty, a native of Gaylord, has been involved in the furniture business in Flint for the last twenty years, where he co-partnered with the Warehouse Furniture Store. His educational background includes attendance at the University of Michigan, followed by graduation from Ferris Institute, where he majored in accounting and business administration, equipping him with the skills necessary for running a successful business. The store promises to offer a wide range of furniture, including high-quality carpeting and stylish lamps, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Among the nationally recognized brands featured are Simmons bedding and living room furniture, Thomasville Mengel, Willett, Bernhart, and St. John's bedroom and dining room furniture, as well as Lee and Alexander Smith carpeting, Virginia House Chrome Dinettes, and Interstate Metal Kitchen cabinets, ensuring that customers have access to top-notch products.
In the realm of sports, the Rogers City Hurons varsity basketball season began successfully with a commanding 67-33 victory over Pellston. Coach Dick Abraham, known for his strategic acumen and ability to inspire his players, is optimistic about his starting lineup, which includes standout athletes such as Don Mulka, Don Wenzel, Eddie Buczkowski, Herman Meyer, and Tony Fuhrman. Buczkowski led the team in the win with an impressive 16 points, showcasing his skill and determination on the court.
In other sports news, excitement was in the air as the Detroit Lions triumphed over the Cleveland Browns with a score of 17-7 in the NFL Championship Game. The Lions, led by the talented quarterback Bobby Layne, the dynamic running back Doak Walker, and the astute head coach Buddy Parker, celebrated a momentous occasion as it marked the team's first return to the title game in 17 years, since their win in 1935, igniting a sense of pride and hope among the fans.
As the community embraced the festive spirit, it transformed into a winter wonderland adorned with holiday lights, vibrant colors, and cheerful decor in celebration of the Christmas holiday. Among the holiday displays drawing much attention this year were a beautifully lighted Nativity scene and a whimsical portrayal of Santa and his reindeer on the grounds of the Presque Isle County Courthouse, captivating the hearts of children and adults alike. Santa Claus himself made a special appearance at the Children's party hosted by the Rogers City Chamber of Commerce, delighting the young attendees with his jovial presence.
Topping many children's lists this year was the new toy, Mr. Potato Head, a colorful box of plastic body parts with pushpins designed to attach to a real potato or other vegetable, distributed by the Hasbro Toy Company. In later years, the company would respond to feedback by including a plastic potato body with the toy set, addressing concerns about rotting vegetables and adhering to new government safety regulations. Each child who visited Santa received a small bag of assorted holiday candies, adding to the joy of the occasion. The event also featured delightful performances by the children's choirs of Westminster, St. Ignatius, and St. John's church, who sang Christmas carols to the gathered crowd, spreading holiday cheer and fostering a sense of community spirit that resonated throughout the evening.
Comments