January 1948
- charliebunton
- Jun 30
- 5 min read
On New Year's Eve, in various lively taverns scattered across Rogers City, the atmosphere was thick with excitement and a sense of anticipation. The sound of glasses clinking together harmoniously blended with the low murmur of conversations that floated through the air, creating a symphony of camaraderie among the patrons. Outside, the last stubborn snowflakes of December danced whimsically against the frosted windowpanes, their delicate forms illuminated by the warm glow of the tavern lights. Inside, a cozy warmth radiated from the potbelly stove nestled in the corner, casting a comforting heat that enveloped the room and drew people closer together.
Around the polished bar, which exuded the rich, inviting scent of mahogany mixed with the sharp notes of whiskey, a group of men—predominantly local businessmen and hardworking quarrymen—nursed their drinks with a reflective demeanor. Their faces, etched with the lines of years spent laboring in the unforgiving elements, bore witness to the struggles of the past, yet there was a quiet hope for the future shining in their eyes. The air was thick with the familiar scent of pipe smoke mingling with the aroma of spilled beer, occasionally punctuated by hearty laughter and the clinking of glasses as they awaited the stroke of midnight, a new year, and perhaps a fresh start in this small but vibrant Michigan community.
As dawn broke and welcomed the new year, the first baby born in 1948 was a moment of joy for the community. Alan Bruce Trapp, son of Elmer and Rosemary (Carter) Trapp, entered the world amidst the celebrations, marking a new beginning not just for his family but for the entire town. The arrival of a newborn on the first day of the year often symbolizes hope and renewal, and Alan's birth was met with warmth and excitement from neighbors and friends alike, who looked forward to watching him grow up in their close-knit community. Alan would go on to be a lover of history and attended Grand Valley State University passing away in 2019.
The Rogers City Hurons varsity basketball season commenced with a closely contested game against Pellston, culminating in a narrow loss with a final score of 42-39 in the fourth quarter. The team, under the guidance of Coach Mason Evans, who had previously honed his skills in Elkhart, Indiana, was eager to implement a new fast-break offense designed to invigorate their gameplay. This strategic shift aimed to capitalize on the players' speed and agility, creating opportunities for quick scoring. Among the roster were returning veterans such as Ivan Schaedig, Jerry Yerks, Leonard Parsons, Dick Brackenbury, Hank Shorkey, John McLean, Frank Richards, Dick Wing, and Bob Pardike. Each player brought their unique strengths to the team, and as they practiced together, they forged a bond that would be essential for their success throughout the season.
In a significant development for the local legal community, Attorney Louis Jarboe has opened a new law office in the Klann building. Jarboe, a distinguished graduate of the University of Detroit Law College, had initially established his law practice in Onaway before answering the call to serve his country during the war. His service in the army spanned 27 months in the European Theater, where he was deployed to various countries including England, France, and Germany, ultimately rising to the rank of captain upon his honorable discharge. His return to civilian life and subsequent establishment of a law office in Rogers City signified not only a personal achievement but also a commitment to serving the legal needs of the community, offering his expertise and dedication to those seeking justice and representation.
In another exciting development, Norman Raymond opened the doors to Western Auto Supply in a brand-new building on Erie Street, marking a notable addition to the local retail landscape. The store is managed by his brother-in-law, Bert Lewis, who hails from Detroit and brings with him a wealth of experience in the retail automotive trade. Western Auto Supply is poised to become a one-stop shop for the community, offering a diverse range of goods including hardware, radios, paint, oil, electrical supplies, and appliances. Additionally, customers can find garden tools, bicycles, sporting goods, refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, and washing machines—all under the reputable Western Auto Quality brand, which guarantees 100% satisfaction. The opening of this store not only enhances the shopping options for local residents but also contributes to the economic vitality of Rogers City.
The Kiwanis Club, a cornerstone of community service in Rogers City, saw a significant transition this month as presidential duties were passed from father to son. Karl Vogelheim succeeded his father, Charles, as the head of the organization, marking a poignant moment in the club's history. Alongside him, other officers were installed, including Dr. William Jackson as vice president, Emory Walborn as secretary, and Walter Thomas as treasurer. The Rogers City Kiwanis Club, which was organized in 1934 at the Brooks Hotel, has been a vital part of the community, fostering fellowship and service. Sadly, the club also mourned the passing of Dr. Samuel Rutledge, its first president, who had played a pivotal role in establishing the organization and guiding its mission of service to the community.
As the month progressed, tragedy struck the community, casting a shadow over the New Year celebrations. On Monday, January 19, a fire of undetermined origin erupted and gutted the beloved Rogers Theater located on Third Street. The blaze not only destroyed the theater but also caused significant damage to the adjacent Rog-Isle Shop and Heller Gift Shop, putting the entire block at risk. The estimated loss was a staggering $75,000, according to Charles Vogelheim, the owner of the building. The fire ignited around 3:30 p.m. due to an overheated furnace. Cyril Nelson, the custodian of the building, was working there at the time and quickly detected the smell of smoke. Upon investigation, he discovered the fire raging between the furnace and the rear wall. In a brave attempt to mitigate the damage, he pulled the fire alarm and tried to extinguish the flames himself, but his efforts were in vain. The Rogers City Fire Department arrived promptly and battled the inferno for four and a half hours in near-zero temperatures, showcasing their dedication and bravery. The Alpena Fire Department was summoned at 6:00 p.m. to provide additional support in combating the relentless flames.
Just two days later, the community faced another devastating blow when Walter Pilarski, the foreman of the blasting crew at Calcite, lost his life in a tragic accident. At approximately 3:45 p.m., a dynamite explosion in the quarry claimed his life, inflicting fatal head injuries from flying debris. Pilarski, who began his career in 1918, had dedicated the last 20 years to the blasting crew and had served as foreman for the past five years. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the community, and thoughts of his friends and family filled the hearts of those who knew him, as they grappled with the profound sadness of this loss. The community mourned together, reflecting on the impact he had made during his years of service and the legacy he left behind.
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