November 1948
- charliebunton
- Jul 13
- 4 min read
Residents of Rogers City eagerly made their way to local polling stations to partake in a presidential election that held significant weight in the annals of American history. On this momentous day, much like towns and cities across the nation, Rogers City was alive with a strong sense of civic enthusiasm and engagement. Citizens lined up, their spirits high, to cast their votes in a contest that would culminate in a historic upset victory for Harry S. Truman, who would triumph over the heavily favored Republican nominee, Thomas E. Dewey, in a race that would be remembered for its surprising outcome and the shifting tides of American politics.
For the residents of Rogers City, this election was more than just a choice between two candidates; it represented a pivotal decision about the nation's post-war future. As they stood in line, they were not only exercising their fundamental democratic right but also participating in a defining moment in history that would shape the trajectory of the United States in the years to come. The stakes were high, and the air was thick with anticipation as the community joined millions of Americans in this essential civic duty, reflecting their hopes and aspirations for a better tomorrow.
In the broader context of Presque Isle County, the political landscape leaned Republican, which was evident in the election results. Dewey garnered 2,271 votes, while Truman received 1,872. This local outcome mirrored the national sentiment, as many voters grappled with the implications of their choices in a rapidly changing world. In addition to the presidential race, Emil Peltz, the State Representative for the Presque Isle district, won his position unopposed, further indicating the political dynamics at play in the region.
The local elections also saw significant developments, with Paul Tank securing re-election as Register of Deeds, a role critical for maintaining the integrity of property records and public documents within the community. Leonard Sorgenfrei was elected Sheriff, taking on the responsibility of ensuring law and order, while Joseph Buza successfully retained his position as Judge of Probate, overseeing matters related to wills and estates. These local elections were essential in maintaining the governance and stability of Rogers City, reflecting the community’s trust in its elected officials.
In the realm of local business, there were notable changes as well. Paul and Dora Hopp made headlines with their purchase of the Rainbow Gardens restaurant and tavern from John Parsons, a beloved establishment known for its warm atmosphere and hearty meals. Until recently, Paul had been the owner of the Standard Station located at the busy intersection of Third and Erie, which is now under the ownership of his son, Carroll, marking a new chapter in the family's legacy of service to the community.
In a notable shift within the community's grocery sector, Herman Vogler, who had spent over 15 years as a second mate for the Bradley Transportation Company, took a leap into entrepreneurship by purchasing the Anthony Hilla & Son Grocery and Meat Market. The newly established Vogler's Market, situated at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Second Street, was managed by Herman and his wife, Evelyn, who brought their own touch of warmth and community spirit to the business. Their market quickly became a staple for residents seeking fresh produce and quality meats, embodying the essence of local commerce.
As the month progressed, the community of Rogers City found itself moving in rhythm with the changing seasons. Men donned their hunting gear, taking up their rifles and venturing into the frost-covered hardwood forests that surrounded the town. Their breath formed ghostly clouds in the crisp air as they tracked deer through the serene and silent maple and oak groves, embodying the age-old tradition of hunting that connected them to the land and its bounty. Meanwhile, in the heart of the town, women gathered in warm, inviting kitchens, where the rich aromas of roasting turkey and bubbling cranberry sauce filled the air. With hands deftly working magic with rolling pins and wooden spoons, they prepared sumptuous feasts to welcome their hunters home, fostering a sense of community and togetherness.
Among the stories of the season, Richard Budnik, a spirited 16-year-old, emerged as the first successful deer hunter to report his achievement to the Presque Isle County Advance office. He proudly bagged a 4-point buck just a mile beyond the Coast Guard Station near Hammond Bay, marking a rite of passage that would be celebrated within his family and the wider community. The entire town moved in harmony with the ancient rhythms of harvest and hunt, each family united by the shared promise of a table laden with nature's bounty. The warmth of loving hands and the joy of shared meals would create cherished memories, fortifying them against the long, cold Michigan winter that lay ahead. As the community gathered around their tables, they not only celebrated their harvest but also reaffirmed their bonds, creating a tapestry of stories and traditions that would be passed down through generations.
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