July 1947
- charliebunton
- Jun 23
- 5 min read
As the warm summer breezes sweep off Lake Huron onto the shores of Rogers City, a picturesque scene unfolds as teenagers prepare for an exciting and memorable date night. The atmosphere is filled with anticipation and youthful energy, as young men and women eagerly await the arrival of their dates, each moment charged with excitement. The evening typically begins at home, where the young men, dressed in their best attire, groom themselves with care and polish their shoes, while the young women choose their outfits with great consideration, wanting to look their absolute best for the occasion.
The young man arrives to pick up his date in a freshly cleaned and polished car, likely borrowed from his father, which adds an air of sophistication to the night. As he steps out of the car, he presents a simple yet thoughtful flower or corsage, a classic gesture of romance that sets the tone for the evening. With a charming smile, he takes her hand, and together they stroll down the lane, the excitement of the night ahead palpable in the warm summer air.
Their date often begins with dinner, and Hank's Snack Bar in Pinewood stands out as a popular new gathering spot among local teens. This beloved eatery is renowned for its mouthwatering hamburgers and ice-cold sodas, making it a favorite destination for casual dining. The ambiance is vibrant, with a jukebox playing the latest hits, creating a lively background for conversation and laughter. The presence of a pool table adds a fun element to the evening, as couples and friends challenge each other to friendly games, further enhancing the spirit of camaraderie and youthful exuberance.
After enjoying their meal, the couples might indulge in sweet treats from Larke or O'Callaghan Drug Stores, both of which feature nostalgic soda fountains. Here, they can delight in creamy ice cream sundaes, refreshing sodas, and a variety of other delectable desserts, all while exchanging stories and laughter. Date night is not just about the couple; it’s a social occasion where casual interactions with friends and neighbors enhance the overall experience, creating a sense of community and shared joy.
As the evening progresses, the excitement continues with a visit to the Rogers Theater, a cherished local venue that showcases the latest films. This particular night features "The Yearling," a new cinematic adaptation of the beloved classic, starring Gregory Peck and Jane Wyman. Showtimes at 7:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. draw a crowd, and the theater fills with eager patrons ready to be entertained. Before the main feature, newsreels and serials play, providing a mix of current events and engaging stories, setting the perfect backdrop for young couples to snuggle closer in the cool, dark theater, escaping the heat of the July night.
After the film, couples often enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic shores of Lake Huron, where the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore creates a soothing atmosphere. Here, they can easily converse about the film they just watched or share thoughts on local events, deepening their connection and creating cherished memories. For those who prefer a more lively atmosphere, the Deer Hunt Inn beckons with its vibrant social scene, featuring live music by Bernie Scott and His Mountain Rhythm Boys. The band plays popular hits like "Near You" and "Peg O' My Heart," inviting couples to dance to the lively big band tunes or sway to romantic melodies, creating an enchanting ambiance filled with joy and laughter.
As the night draws to a close, if the young man is feeling bold and fortunate, he might attempt a gentle goodnight kiss, perhaps on the cheek or hand. This moment, filled with youthful innocence and excitement, is often a significant milestone, especially if it is their first date, as he strives to be a true gentleman while navigating the delicate balance of romance and respect.
In a separate yet equally engaging narrative, 87 boys recently left camp at last Saturday, embarking on an adventure filled with outdoor activities and camaraderie. However, the week saw seven boys return home due to various circumstances such as illness, homesickness, or other personal reasons. The county nurse, Ethel Mae Mielke, played a crucial role in the camp, making regular visits for sick calls and providing minor first aid to ensure the boys' well-being. Some farm boys expressed mild annoyance at having to stay in bed until 6:30 a.m., a departure from their usual early morning routines, highlighting the adjustments they had to make while away from home.
The camp was well-organized, with experienced counselors and chaperones overseeing the boys' activities. Notable figures included Ned Curtis, Lewis Crosby, Fred Heron, Elmer Bade, Lloyd Conley, James Brackenbury, and Reinhart Pauly, each contributing to the boys' experience with their guidance and support. In a parallel storyline, Nina Ferdelman, a dedicated seventh-grade teacher, recently returned from an enlightening trip to Higgins Lake. She had been invited by the Michigan Historical Commission after her class successfully completed a remarkable book project titled "From Virgin Forests to Modern Homes." Throughout the school year, her students meticulously documented the founding of Rogers City, tracing its history from the time of Native Americans up to the year 1947. This project stands as the most comprehensive record of the early history of Rogers City, and it is a testament to the importance of preserving local heritage; without this initiative, much of the rich history might have faded into obscurity.
Meanwhile, a series of accidents occurred at the Calcite plant, drawing attention to safety concerns in the area. In an incident shrouded by early morning fog, the Canadian Str. Osler, a self-unloader, collided with the harbor breakwall at the Port of Calcite. The vessel was light at the time of the accident, and the fore end struck the rock revetment with considerable force, causing alarm among onlookers. Fortunately, harbor tugs were able to free the vessel, and it was taken to port for a thorough damage assessment. Initial reports indicated that the bottom plates sustained significant damage, resulting in excessive leakage that hindered loading operations. Despite this setback, the ship managed to leave under its own power, heading for drydock in Collingwood, Ontario, to undergo necessary repairs.
In another unfortunate event, William Gapske, an employee at the plant, suffered serious injuries after falling from a ladder while disembarking from the Str. W.D. Rees. The accident left him with three fractured ribs, a punctured lung, and other injuries, underscoring the inherent risks associated with working in such an industrial environment.
Comments