Basketball

"The Pike Woods Basketball team played the Somers team two games Friday evening at Woodman Hall.
Pike Woods:  First A. Werve; f, G. Werve; M. Schmitt, center; Moran, g; Thomas, g.
Somers: First C. Jensen, f; H. Tabbert, f; F. Bradley, center, P. Rice, g; O. Tabbert, g.
Somers 29 - Pike Woods 26

Referee-Herzog.  Scorer-Dixon, Moran.  Time keepers - J. Jensen, C. Dorey

Pike Woods: Second - Moran, f; Rogers, f; W. Thomas, center; F. Gascoigne, g, G. Thomas, g.
Somers: Second - G. Leet, f; H. Gascoigne, f; E. Jensen, center; C. Lytle, g; Bishop, g.
Somers, 36 - Pike Woods 12
(Source:  Racine Journal March 30, 1906)

Tabbert

Edward Tabbert
Edward E. Tabbert, 84, died at Memorial Hospital Saturday night following a short illness.  He was born in Racine on December 26, 1891, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Herman Tabbert, and attended school in Somers Township.
On August 11, 1915, he married Eleanor J. Gardinier who died on March 20, 1964.  Mr. Tabbert was a carpenter and also operated a radio and television repair shop before his retirement in 1962.
He was a member of the Somers United Church of Christ, the Modern Woodmen, the Somers Volunteer Firemen Retirees, and the Senior Citizens.
Survivors are a son, Donald E., and a daughter, Mrs. Kenneth (Jane) Bohm, both of Somers; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and a brother, George A., Springstead, Wisconsin.  He was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.
(Source:  Racine Journal May 29, 1976)

Mrs. Edward Tabbert
Mrs. Edward Tabbert, 77, a lifelong resident of Somers, died at her home this morning following a long illness.
She was born Lillian Gardinier in Somers on June 6, 1886, the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Ellsworth Gardinier, Sr.  She attended Wood Road School.
On August 11, 1915, she married Edward J. Tabbert.  She was a member of the Somers United Congregational Church, the Pilgrim's Daughters of the Church, and of the Royal Neighbors of America.
Survivors are her husband; one son, Donald E. Tabbert, and one daughter, Mrs. Kenneth (Jane) Bohm, both of Somers; six grandchildren; four brothers, Samuel Gardinier, Little Prairie, Wisconsin and Ellsworth J., Jr., Irving, and Thomas, all of Somers, and three sisters, Mrs. Tina Dorey and Mrs. Frank (Lillian) Ehmke, both of Kenosha, and Mrs. Peter (Myrtle) Lauer, Somers.  She was preceded in death by one sister, Miss Joan Gardinier.
(Source:  Racine Journal March 20, 1964)

Partial 1899 Map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
H. Tabbert parcel of 57.66 acres (located on Highway E or Somers Road, east of Highway 31 on south side of road

The family of Herman and Theresa Tabbert.  Circa 1940
Seated on the left, Otto; Theresa Tabbert; Ted seated on the right
Standing in the back left, Ernie; center is Edward; and right is George
(Source: Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

Herman Tabbert
1900 U.S. Federal Census (Home in Somers)
Head of Household:  Herman Tabbert, born in Germany
Spouse:  Tracy, born in Germany April 1860
Marriage:  1885
Immigration Year:  1871
Children:
Otto, born November 1885
Theodore, born August 1889
Edward, born December 1891
Ernest, born January 1899

George Tabbert
(Source: Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

Ernie and Theresa (mother) Tabbert (widow of Herman)
(Source: Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

Herman Tabbert Obituary
HERO OF MANY WARS
Herman Tabbert, Who Served Ten years In the Army of Germany, Died at His Home Tuesday
REMARKABLY PRESERVED MAN
Herman Tabbert, a man widely known among the Germans of the County on account of his long service in the German Army, died suddenly at his home in the Town of Somers, five miles northwest of Kenosha on Tuesday evening.  Death resulted from pneumonia.  The deceased had been ill but a short time.  He had been ailing on Monday but he remained at work on the farm.  Tuesday morning he was forced to go to bed and he sank rapidly until the end came.
The deceased was 68 years of age.  He was born in Germany, January 21, 1839 and when he reached his majority he enlisted in the Army of the Kaiser.  The next ten years of his life was given to fighting the battles of the Fatherland.  His first service was in the War between Denmark and Germany in 1863-1864 (Denmark-German War 1864)  and after this contest had been settled he marched with the German Army in the Austrian-Prussian War (Austrian-Prussian War).  He finished up his service as a soldier by fighting in the Franco-Prussian War (Franco-Prussian War).  After the close of the Franco-Prussian War in 1870, Tabbert resigned from the Army and was officially thanked by the Kaiser for the service he had rendered his native land.  He came at once to this country and after residing for a time near Madison, he came to the Town of Somers.
The deceased was famous on account of the way he had preserved his youthful appearance.  While nearly three score and ten when he died he appeared to be a man under forty years of age.  It was his boast that, notwithstanding the strenuous life he had led in peace and war, he had no gray hairs on his head and his face showed no signs of wrinkles.
Tabbert is survived by a widow, and seven children.  The funeral will be held from the late residence on Friday and interment will be at the family plot at Oakwood Cemetery in Somers, Wisconsin
(Source:  Kenosha News, March 13, 1907)

Herman Tabbert
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source:  Photo courtesy of USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin by Larry & Linda Kopet)

Theresa Tabbert
(Born April 17, 1860 in Germany.  Date of death March 10, 1957.  Theresa is the daughter of Augustin Ackermann.)
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source: Photo courtesy of USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsinby Larry & Linda Kopet)

SSGT. Theodore Tabbert.  Final rank of Col.
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

SSGT. Theodore Tabbert. Final rank of Col.
(Source: Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

Theodore and Ethel Tabbert
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source: Photo courtesy of USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin by Larry & Linda Kopet)

Edward Tabbert
(Source: Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

Edward and Elenor Tabbert
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source: Photo courtesy of USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin by Larry & Linda Kopet)

Somers, Wisconsin Volunteer Fire Department
Click on image to enlarge.

Men on Left Fire Truck:  Standing behind the left headlamp is Ed Wade, to his right is Archie Bush, Jim Nueloff, and Bob Thomas sitting in the driver seat.  Standing with the light suit is Pete Lauer, Wendy Rhodes and Mac McNeil.  The man behind the first aid box is Fred Helding and behind him in the dark suit is Roger Prange.

Men on the Right Fire Truck: In front of the truck is Ernie Tabbert.  Seated on the lieft is George Yunk and in the driver seat is Ed Tabbert.  The man with the helmet is Fritz Heide and to his right is Ed Tabbert.  The men standing are from the left, Ed Prange, Ted Tabbert, George Tabbert, Louie Wilcox, and Franklin Thom.
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

Original news clipping courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert
Man comforting Fritz Heide on stretcher is Glenn Swartz.
Click on new article for larger view
(Source: Kenosha News, March 29, 1949)

Tank Vehicle Tips Racing to Big Grass Fire
Two Somers Township volunteer firemen were killed and two others injured yesterday afternoon when a 1,000 gallon tank truck overturned going to a grass fire.
The injured men were Fritz Heide, 50, Rt. 4, Hughes Rd., the driver, and George Yunk, 48, Rt. 4, Box 570.  Heide suffered internal injuries and Yunk received injuries to his head and right shoulder.  Attendants at St. Catherine's Hospital reported their condition as "fair" this morning.
Coroner Jay B. Glerum said Tabbert and Friedrich were riding on the back end of the truck when it left the station house in Somers village.  The tanker failed to make a left turn at the intersection of County Trunk E and the Wood Road, skidded on loose gravel and overturned in the east ditch.  County Trunk E dead-ends at the Wood Road.
Glerum said a sudden shift of the water load could have caused the truck to tip.
Tabbert was killed instantly when he was trapped beneath the water tank.  Friedrich was also pinned by the truck but was freed by sheriff's deputies and taken unconscious to St. Catherine's Hospital.  He died several hours later at 5:30 p.m.
The sheriff's department received a report of a large grass fire at the Wood Road, and the Corbett Road at 2:15 p.m.  Five minutes later William Thompson, a resident a quarter of a mile from the intersection telephoned that he had heard a crash and thought the fire truck turned over.
Deputies James Marshall and Leland Chartier, driving to the fire, arrived on the crash scene within two minutes.  Chartier transported Friedrich and Yunk to St. Catherine's Hospital.  Heide was taken to the hospital a short time later in another ambulance.  The sheriff's officers were assisted by City Policemen Dominic Mattioli and Jospeh Voleska.
The Somers volunteer fire department operates a pump truck and a tank truck to carry a water supply.  In answering the alarm yesterday, the pump truck took a different route than the tanker, and firemen on the pumper did not learn of the tragic accident until they returned from the fire.
Tabbert was born in Racine, August 9, 1889, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Herman Tabbert.  He attended the Winslow School in Racine and the Washington Grade School in Somers and during his early years he farmed on the Tabbert homestead in Somers Township.
A colorful military career was followed by Tabbert after he joined the U.S. Army on July 21, 1913.  He was commissioned a first lieutenant and served overseas with Troop K, 14th Cavalry, 341 Field Artillery during World War I.  He was wounded twice and after the war was discharged from service June 25, 1919.
Upon his return to Somers, Tabbert was employed at the Somers Post Office and later worked as a carpenter.  He rejoined the armed forces on October 29, 1940, and was commissioned a colonel.  He fought in the Balles of Naples-Foggia and Rome-Arno during his two and a half years overseas.  He was wounded in fighting at Naples and received the purple Heart.  He was discharged on August 20, 1946.
Tabbert married Miss Ethel Helding on December 25, 1917.  The couple have one son, Evan T. Tabbert, a student at Oregon State College, and one daughter, Mrs. Elmer R. Yates, of Urbana, Illinois.  He was a member of Masonic Lodge No. 47, F. & A.M., the Acacia Club and the Army Officers Reserve.
Also surviving are his mother, Mrs. Theresa Tabbert, Somers; five brothers, Otto of Milwaukee, and Herman, Edward, Ernest and George, all of Somers.  One sister, Mrs. Selma Retert, preceded him in death.

Friedrich was born in Kenosha on March 25, 1918, and received his early education at the Burr Oak School in Somers and the Friedens Evangelical Lutheran School.
He was employed at the Nash-Kelvinator Company for a time and later operated a garage in the village of Somers.
On April 20, 1940, Friedrich married Miss LaVerne Rose Huck.  He was a member of United Auto Workers Local No. 72 and the Ke-Nash-A Club.
Surviving besides his wife are one son, Allen Herbert, and three daughters, Lois Dorothy, Donna LaVerne and Karen Rose, all of school age and younger.  Also surviving are his mother, Mrs. Caroline Kuehn of Racine and two sisters, Mrs. William Z. Dassler and Mrs. Herman J. Hess, both of Racine.  His father and one sister, Mrs. Virginia Pofahl, preceded him in death.
Friedrich served with the Army Air Corps during World War II.
(Source:  Kenosha News, March 29, 1949)

Photo of Somers Fire Department Tanker Crash, March 1949
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Robert Swartz.  Received July 2012)

Tabbert's "In the News"
The Altar: Gardiner - Tabbert
"A pretty home wedding took place Wednesday, August 11, 1915, at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Ellsworth Gardiner, in the Town of Somers, Wisconsin when their daughter, Eleanor, was united in marriage to Edward Tabbert, son of Mrs. Theresa Tabbert.
The parlors of the home were handsomely decorated in green and white. It was exactly 4 o'clock when Miss Grace Harcus, cousin of the bride, struck up Mendelsohn's wedding march on the piano. The bridal party came down the stairway, following the Rev. C.F. Geiger of the Somers Presbyterian Church and took their positions under a large white wedding bell composed of flowers and smilax. 85 invited guests attended.
The bride's dress was a beautiful creation of white silk voile and she carried a shower bouquet of daisies. Miss Myrtle Gardiner, sister of the bride, was maid of honor, and the groom's brother was best man. Miss Irene Yance of Kenosha, cousin of the bride, was bridesmaid and Ernest Tabbert and Irving Gardiner groomsman. A wedding supper was served in the dining room, which was also decorated in green and white.
Mr. and Mrs. Tabbert, after a short wedding trip, will make Somers their home upon their return."
(Source: Racine Journal August 18, 1915)


Military Wedding at Our Savior's Church
"A military wedding was solemnized at Our Savior's Church, corner of 12th and Racine Streets, at 3 o'clock on the afternoon of Christmas Day, when Miss Ethel Helding, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. N.F. Helding, 1609 Morton Avenue, and Lieut. Theodore Tabbert, of Camp Funston, Kan., son of Mrs. Theresa Tabbert, of Somers, Wisconsin were united in marriage by the Rev. N.J. Bing.
A large American flag was draped over the altar, and other American flags, together with palms and flowers, formed the decoration of the church. Only the immediate relatives and friends were present.
The wedding march from Lohengrin was played by Miss Elsie Peterson as the bridal party entered. The bride, attired in white voile, with lace over drapes and a bridal veil, and carrying a shower bouquet of bridal roses and sweet peas, was attended by her sister, Miss Lillian Helding, as maid of honor. The gown worn by Miss Helding was of white with lace trimmings, and her corsage bouquet was of pink roses and sweet peas. Edward Tabbert, brother of the groom, was the groomsman, and the ushers were William Petersen and Nels Petersen.
Following the reception which was held after the service, at the home of the bride's parents, a supper of twenty-five was served. Immediately after the reception, the young couple left for Madison. They will be gone for several days, and will then make their home in Junction City, Kan. The groom is a first lieutenant with the U.S. Field Artillery.
Harold Helding, brother of the bride, has been at Camp Custer and was to have attended the wedding. His recent transfer to New Jersey made it impossible for him to be here. Another brother, Chris Helding, was also unable to attend. He recently enlisted in the Quartermaster's Corps at Jefferson Barracks, St. Louis, Mo., and has just left for unknown parts.
Out of town guests at the wedding were: Mrs. Theresa Tabbert of Somers, Wisconsin, Mr. and Mrs. Otto Tabbert and children of Chicago, George Tabbert, Mrs. and Mrs. Edward Tabbert, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Gardiner, Mrs. and Mrs. P.H. Anderson and Mr. and Mrs. N.E. Thompson, all of Somers, Wisconsin."
(Source: Racine Journal, December 26, 1971)

"Mrs. Herman Tabbert has received two newspapers, with the A.E.F. from a cousin in oversea service that are full of interest. Extracts from a couple of letters received by Mr. and Mrs. Chris Rasmussen, from their son, Cook Axel Rasmussen of the 340th Company:
Somewhere in France, August 28 and 30, 1918,
Dear Parents and Brother:
Many thanks for your letters and card received, also for money order. Do not need money so long as we get plenty to eat and drink. We also get tobacco and matches. The government issues us Bull Durham every two days. Say, but this is a fine country, we have our camp in a pretty little village. Some men are sleeping in barns. Our stores are set up under some large chestnut trees. This is the life. I'll soon be as brown as an Indian. The evenings here are lively so we can see till nine o'clock. I saw Soren Sorensen yesterday while on a hike. It is nothing for us to hike ten to twelve miles with full pack. When you write tell me all about the war as we are so far away from it that we do not know what is going on. I like this country. Farmers are stocking their grain - fine stocks. Saw several McCormick grain binders. Have just come from taking a bath. We walked about two miles to a creek - 70 men of us - and washed our clothes and hung them on the fences. We are getting quite expert in this line. When we came back to the dear old "Journal-News" was waiting for me, though a month old it was full of news for me and the other Racine boys. Am busy cooking and drilling gravel and lime stone are found to depth of ten feet. A great deal of alfalfa is raised but main crop is grapes. Just think I have soon been in service one year - the year has gone fast and I am proud to be with the boys. The best education a man can get. Give regards to all my friends. Axel Rasmussen."
(Source: Racine Journal September 27, 1918)

"A little daughter was born to Lieut. and Mrs. Theodore Tabbert on Saturday, November 30th in Racine. Lieut. Tabbert of the 34th Field Artillery, 89 Div., is overseas."
(Source: Racine Journal December 7, 1918)

"Herman Tabbert has sold his property in the village to Mr. Montague of the Burlington Road. It is rumoured that Matt Uhlman has purchased the Montague farm on the Burlington Road."
(Source: Racine Journal December 11, 1916)

"Theodore Tabbert, son of Mrs. Theresa Tabbert, was recently appointed First Lieut. in the U.S. Army and is now training at the officer's training school at Fort McIntosh, Texas."
(Source: Racine Journal May 26, 1917)

"Ernest Tabbert left with Troop E, Wisconsin First Cavalry for Camp Douglas on Monday."
(Source: Racine Journal July 25, 1917)

"Lieut. Theodore Tabbert has returned home from overseas. He has been in army service for several years. Mrs. Theresa Tabbert entertained at a family gathering in honor of the return home of her two sons, Theodore and Ernest Tabbert."
(Source: Racine Journal June 9, 1919)

"Theodore Tabbert, who has been in Chicago for some time, has returned home and will work with William Lauer at the carpenter trade for the summer."
(Source: Racine Journal April 30, 1912)

"Edward Tabbert, wireless operator on The Indiana, spent Sunday with his mother."
(Source: Racine Journal October 9, 1912)

"Theodore Tabbert has been appointed Sergeant in the U.S. Army is now stationed at Fort McIntyre, Texas. Edward Tabbert, one of Somers most prominent young men, is now on his way to England as wireless operator on board of the of the large ocean liners."
(Source: Racine Journal December 23, 1914)

"Herman Tabbert is doing some painting in No. 7 school house this week."
(Source: Racine Journal December 26, 1912)

"Edward Tabbert, one of our Somers boys is now located near the Mexican border as wireless operator on board a large steamer. He spent several weeks at Panama recently."
(Source: Racine Journal, December 4, 1913)

"Mr. Herman Tabbert fell from the loft in the barn Saturday and was severely bruised. Dr. Almfelt is attending."
(Source: Racine Weekly December 28, 1906)
"Mr. Herman Tabbert is doing the painting on the Presbyterian Church."
(Source: Racine Daily April 16, 1907)

"O.C. Tabbert of Wadsworth is spending his vacation home."
(Source: Racine Daily, August 8, 1905)

"Our local paper hanger and painter, Herman Tabbert, has been working this spring on the new home of Mr. and Mrs. Chris Jensen. Mr. Tabbert has the latest samples and from now on will be ready to give prompt service."
(Source: Racine Journal, March 10, 1908)

"Mrs. Myron A. Gould spent Thursday with her daughter, Mrs. Otto Tabbert, at Franksville."
(Source: Racine Daily February 15, 1910)

"Otto Tabbert who holds a responsible position with the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway company in Chicago spent Sunday with his mother."
(Source: Racine Journal April 13, 1909)

"Miss Gladys Gould, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Myron A. Gould, and Mr. Otto Tabbert were united in marriage at a Congregation Church in Chicago Wednesday, November 10. Mr. and Mrs. Tabbert will reside in Chicago."
(Source: Racine Daily November 16, 1909)

"Theodore Tabbert has accepted a position as fireman on the Chicago, Milwaukee, and St. Paul Railroad. Edward Tabbert has accepted a position as signal man of the St. Railway. "
(Source: Racine Daily September 7, 1910)

"The Presbyterian parsonage is being improved by a coat of paint. Ed Tabbert is doing the work."
(Source: Racine Journal September 28, 1909)

"Tabbert brothers are painting Chris Rasmussen's buildings."
(Source: Racine Journal June 23, 1908)

"Mr. Otto Tabbert, an operator in the Union Depot, Chicago, spent Sunday with friends in Somers."
(Source: Racine Daily June 9, 1908)

"Jacob Biehn's new house is receiving its final coat of paint. Herman Tabbert is doing the work."
(Source: Racine Daily June 12, 1907)

"Mrs. Tabbert is building a new house in the village."
(Source: Racine Daily August 2, 1910)

"Otto Tabbert, who has been a telegraph operator at Somers for some years has accepted a position in the general manager's office in Chicago."
(Source: Racine Daily May 26, 1908)

"Tabbert-Schori Marriage"
Miss Virginia Tabbert, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Tabbert of Milwaukee, and Robert Schori were married Saturday, Sept. 18, 1948 in the Washington Park Presbyterian Church in Milwaukee.
Those from Somers who attended the wedding reception at the Stratford Arms Hotel, were Messrs. and Mmes. Edward E. Tabbert, Kenneth Bohm, Geroge Tabbert, Donald Tabbert, Edwin Pocan, Howard Bowman, and Mrs. Theodore Tabbert.
(Source:  Racine News September 21, 1948)

Somers Fire Dept.

Kenosha News March 8, 1978
Click on image to enlarge.
(Source: Original news clipping courtesy of Ernest "Bunky" Tabbert)

Somers, Wisconsin Volunteer Fire Department
Click on image to enlarge.
Men on the Fire Truck on the Left:  Standing behind headlight is Ed Wade, to the right, Archie Bush, Jim Nueloff, Bob Thomas with crossed hand and dark suit, Pete Lauer man standing in light suit and tie, to the right of him Wendy Rhodes and Mac NcNeil.  In front of the first aid kit is Fred Helding.

Men on the Fire Truck on the Right:  Man in front of truck is Ernie Tabbert.  Seated in the truck on the left is George Yunk and driving is Ed Tabbert.  Behind with the white helmet is Fritz Heide to his right is Ed Tabbert.  Standing left is Ed Prange, Ted Tabbert, George Tabbert, Louie Wilcox, and Franklin Thom
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Ernest "Bunky" Tabbert)

Kenosha News March 8, 1978
Click on photo to enlarge.
(Source:  Original news clipping courtesy of Ernest "Bunky" Tabbert)

Chat n Chew Restaurant

Chat n Chew Restaurant, Somers, Wisconsin
Owners,  Earl and Lil Yule

Place Mat for Chat 'n Chew, Somers, Wisconsin
Circa Late 1940's
Location of the Chat 'n Chew was on the old Modern Woodmen Hall property.
(Source:  Original courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert)

Back of the Place Mat
(Source: Original courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert. All Rights Reserved. Copyright Ernest Tabbert July 2012.)

"The Gang" at the Chat N Chew Restaurant in Somers, Wisconsin
Click on photo for larger view.
(Source: Original photo and identification courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert.
All Rights Reserved. Copyright Ernest Tabbert July 2012.)

Left to Right Around the Table:  Len Tabbert, Chuck Schultz, Arlo Funk, Leo Thomas, Bill Abresch, Dick "Richie" Miller, Don Penza, Al Middlecamp, Wally Meier, July Yule Thomas, Sue Funk, Jean Bush, Marion Edquist, Janice Christensen, Arlene "Fitz" Fitpatrick, Evelyn Ruthe, Dee Ruthe Tabbert, Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert, Jerry Sinnen.

Standing:  Owners of the Chat 'n Chew, Earl and Lil Yule.

"The Gang" at the Chat n Chew Restaurant in Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Original photo and identification courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert.
All Rights Reserved. Copyright Ernest Tabbert July 2012.)

Left to Right:  Girl with black scarf Evelyn Ruthe, Bill Abresch, lady with print scarf unknown, Leo Thomas, man in front of sign, Chuck Schultz, man sitting, Wally Meier, Al Middlecamp is man with one eye showing, and Don Penza.  Waitress behind counter is unknown.

"The Gang" at the Chat 'n Chew, Somers, Wisconsin
Date of Photo February 1949
This is the back room of the Chat N Chew, where people would get together and play cards or shuffle board.
Click on photo for larger view.
(Source: Original photo and identification courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert.
All Rights Reserved. Copyright Ernest Tabbert July 2012.)

Left to Right Men Sitting in Front: Ernie Tabbert, Sam Burnett (also the barber in town), Frank Helding with glasses and Walt Middlecamp in the white shirt on the far right.

Standing Left to Right:  Ed Longmore, Ed Tabbert, Lura Brunet (Weighmaster on the scale at Cox), Helen Schlitz, Mabel Longmore, Ella Tabbert (diamond print dress), lady behind Ella is Lil Yule, Marcella "Toots" Ruthie (right of lady in diamond print dress), Laverne Helding, Alice Middlecamp, Alice Tabbert (with pearls), Gladys Bush, Archie Bush, Albert Schlitz, and Earl Yule.  The man standing in the back was Casimir "Cappy" Ruthe.

Central Park

Farmers Stage Tri-County Meet
Representatives of Wisconsin Political Parties Address Picnic Group
Approximately 300 farmers from Racine, Walworth and Kenosha attended a picnic at Central Park, Somers,  yesterday and took part in a program of games and contests.  A series of addresses were presented to the group by representatives of the major political parties of the state.
During the forenoon hours, yesterday, an extensive program of picnic games and contests was held.  The features of the afternoon picnic program were the services of speeches and a baseball game.  The evening was devoted to music and dancing in the pavilion at the park.
(Source:  Racine Journal, August 30, 1934)


Central Park May Be Closed
Town of Somers Voted Against Liquor License at Tuesday Election
Officers of the Town Say the Park Must Close
One of the Most Popular Resorts in This Section of the County
About $10,000 Improvements Have Been Made
"Central Park, one of the best known resorts in this section of the country, located on the Lakeshore Road, between Racine and Kenosha, will in all probability be closed, so far as the selling of intoxicating liquors is concerned.
The Park is located in the Town of Somers, Kenosha County.  At the election on Tuesday the question of license or no license was submitted to the voters.  No license was carried by 34 votes, which was a great surprise to those in favor of beer.
One of the officers of the town said yesterday that Central Park would be closed so far as the selling of beer was concerned, or any kind of intoxicating liquors, and perhaps it would be closed to the holding of amusements and wrestling matches on Sunday.  In view of the large majority against the sale of liquor in the Town it was determined to stop it at all hazards and it is claimed that more liquor was sold at the Park than in the whole town combined.
The buildings on the Park were built and the place opened by Peter Steinbach some years ago.  Mr. Steinbach had considerable trouble and his health failed.  For a time he was confined in a private asylum, but he recovered and is again in business.
The handsome park is now owned by Mr. Steinbach and the Schlitz Brewing Company of Milwaukee.  It is estimated that the improvements put in cost something over $10,000.00.
A report reaches the city that Mr. Steinbach has stated that he will continue to run the Park and  dispose, of liquor as heretofore, and that if arrested the case will be fought in the courts to the bitter end.
Hundreds of people, both in Racine and Kenosha counties, will be much interested in the affair, for nearly all of the large societies generally lease the Park for mid-summer picnics and large gatherings."
(Source:  Racine Daily, publication date April 3, 1902)

Partial 1908 Somers Township Map
Central Park, Somers Township, Kenosha County

Batting Averages of Central Park Leagues

A number of baseball fans werre asking some of the managers of the Central Park League how the batting averages stand.  At that time not much of a record was kept, but during the last six weeks the following averages were reported.

(Note:  Somers listed only - list does not include other teams)

Irving, Somers Greys, 342

Morin, Somers Greys, 334

W. Thomas, Somers Greys, 304

Wood, Somers Greys, 300

H. Gascoyne, Somers, 204

F. Gascoyne, Somers, 224

A. Werve, Somers Greys, 278

G. Werve, Somers Greys, 211

G. Thomas, Somers Greys, 278

Rice, Somers, 182

Nelson, Somers, 178

Braid, Somers Greys, 173

Birch, Somers Greys, 161

Dorey, Somers Greys, 220

Drissel, Somers, 257

Tabbert, Somers, 247

Ford, Somers, 230

(Source:  Racine Daily, publication date August 24, 1907)

Woodmen Hall

Photo of the Somers Greys Baseball team in front of the Somers Woodmen Hall
The Photo was taken in 1910.  Newspaper reports noted below are evidence the Hall was built in 1904.
(Source:  Original photograph courtesy of Jim and Sharon Bose Smith.  2012 Copyright.  All Rights Reserved.)

Map of the "village" of Somers
See Somers Woodmen Hall, Camp No. 828,  located west of the rail road tracks, north side of Highway E (Somers Road).

News article about Somers Modern Woodmen Hall
Kenosha News March 7, 1944
Original clipping courtesy of Ernest "Bunkie" Tabbert

About the Modern Woodmen of America
The Modern Woodmen of America was founded in 1883.  It was a national fraternal benefit society that protected families from financial disasters following the death of the breadwinner by offering life insurance through social, charitable and volunteer activities.  By 1901 Woodmen life insurance in force exceeded $1 billion.  As a fraternal organization the Woodmen Society was organized around a lodge system call "camps".  Somers was "Camp No. 828".  The "camps" were organized in communities offering fellowship and community service opportunities.

During the deadly tuberculosis epidemic of the early 1900's, the Modern Woodmen opened a Sanatorium near Colorado Springs, Colorado to provide aid to members stricken with the disease.  Costing $1.5 million to create, this Sanatorium was considered the best of its kind anywhere.  It employed 155 employees and had the capacity for 245 patients.  From 1909 to 1947 the Sanatorium provided free treatment to more than 12,000 Woodmen members.  The Sanatorium offered board, lodging, treatment, medicine, dental work and laundering, all at no expense to the patient.  The only required expense was transportation to the Sanatorium and most local camps paid for that.  The Sanatorium achieved a remarkable 70% recovery rate.  The Sanatorium is considered to be one of the Modern Woodmen's greatest achievements.
As you will see below, Somers participated in the fund raising and support of the Sanatorium.  Below is a sample showing the Somers "camp" was very active as early as the late 1800's.

More About Woodmen Hall in Somers
"Saturday, June 12, 1899 a concert will be given at the Presbyterian Church under the auspices of the Modern Woodman Camp, No. 828.  Twenty-four pieces of the Jacoby Military Bank of Kenosha will be present and assist in the program.  Also Mrs. L. L. Owen, Miss Rhodes, Professors Mitchell and Toase, and others will take part.  This entertainment promises to be the musical event of the season.  Ice cream will be served on the lawn after the concert."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Journal June 15, 1899)

"Now that Main Street has been graveled, our village mayor has expressed his opinion to the effect that the little burg of Somers is on the verge of a great boom.  he suggested that the people fall in line and put up a hall large enough to accommodate the public when a concert or lecture is to be given.  The gentleman has voice the sentiment of a great many people in the community who witnessed the turning away of nearly 100 persons on Saturday evening for the reason that the church was packed to the doors, the occasion being the grand concert given by the Modern Woodmen.
A few weeks ago when Mr. F.G. Mitchell made a proposition to the Modern Woodmen to join hands with him in giving a concert for the benefit of the Order, it met with such favor that every one went to work with a will and no pains were spared to make it the great event of the season.,  Mr. Mitchell fulfilled his contract by preparing a program that was a treat to over 200 persons on Saturday evening while the Woodmen took charge of the refreshments.  This was the largest crowd that has ever assembled in our town and although everything was done to seat all who attended it was an impossibility and many late comers were disappointed in not gaining admission."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal, June 28, 1899)

"Everyone will be pleased to learn that an effort is being made at present to raise money sufficient to build a hall in our village.  For years and years the need of such a building has been apparent to all.  The camp of Modern Woodmen, consisting of nearly one hundred members, has felt the need of a "home" which they could call their own and in view of this a committee has been circulating subscription papers and are meeting with good success.  Subscriptions, however, are not limited to Woodmen only, but those who desire to take stock in the building are permitted to do so.  Water works and electric lights may come some day, but let the hall come now for this is a necessity as all will admit.  We hope every Woodman will fall in line and call on the committee at their earliest convenience."
(Source:  Racine Journal, March 8, 1900)

"A meeting of the Modern Woodmen will be held of Saturday evening of this week.  It is very essential that all members be present as further arrangements for the new Woodmen Hall will be made."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal, June 6, 1900)

"W. E. Bain, one of our leading merchants and who has conducted a store in the village for a great many years, will close out his stock as soon as possible, having sold his tore and other surrounding buildings, including the one-half acre of land to members of the Somers Camp of Modern Woodmen."
(Source:  January 17, 1902)

"A meeting of the stockholders of the Woodmen Hall Association held Saturday night, Henry Lytle, W.J. Rhodes, and N.E. Thoompson, were elected as a Board of Directors to manage the business. At the directors' meeting, Henry Lytle was elected president, W.J. Rhodes vice president and N.E. Thompson secretary and treasurer. The officials request all who have not paid for the stock subscribed to do so at once."
(Source: February 21, 1902)

"The following officers were elected for a one year term at the meeting of the Modern Woodmen Camp No 828, Somers, Saturday evening.
V.C. - Frank DeLine
W.A. - L. E. Ozanne
Ex. B. - E. Gardinier
Clerk - N.E. Thompson
Escort - M.A. Gould
Watchman - Wm. McFarland
Sentry - W.H. King
Manager - Wm. Lauer
Physician - Dr. Ripley
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal, December 5, 1903)

"B.F. Yule has been awarded the contract to build the new Woodmen Hall, the dimensions of which will be 30 x 70 feet and two stories high."
(Source:  Racine Journal, March 4, 1904)

"The Modern Woodmen of Somers will hold their annual "oyster supper" at their new Hall Tuesday evening, January 17.  Everybody is cordially invited to attend, and thus show their appreciation of the work the Modern Woodmen Society is doing in this place."
(Source: Racine Journal January 13, 1905)

"The Modern Woodmen Hall is much improved in appearance by a coat of paint.  Mt. Tabbert did the work."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal August 13, 1907)

"Somers Athletic Club will give a mask ball at Woodmen Hall on Friday evening this week, January 17.  The Murray Orchestra will furnish the music.  Everybody is invited."
(Source:  January 14, 1908)

"The United Produce Growers and Shippers of Southern Wisconsin held a meeting at Woodmen Hall, Saturday March 14.  Although there was not a very large attendance everybody took great interest in the Association and nearly everyone present became a member and a great many more here have promised to join."
(Source: Racine Journal March 17, 1908)

"Somers Camp of the Modern Woodmen Association, No. 828, will give a dance at Woodmen Hall on New Year's Eve."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal December 29, 1908)

"Arrangements are completed for the big county Woodmen picnic to be held at Leet's Petrifying Springs on Labor Day, Sept 6.  The famous Italian Bank of twenty-five pieces of Kenosha will be on the grounds at 10 o'clock a.m. to entertain all day.  Baseball at 11 o'clock between Herzog Corners and Corliss teams of Corliss.  During the afternoon, Woodmen of note will be on the platform and deliver interesting addresses.  Baseball, Racine vs. Somers; foot racing, fat man's race, girls' races, potato, egg and apple races will make up the sports.  Buses will meet both electric line trains all day.  The Chicago, Milwaukee Electric at the Birch Road and the Milwaukee Racine Kenosha Line at Pike River crossing, so people from Racine and Kenosha can get to and from the grounds conveniently.  Dinner will be served at noon.  A Grand Ball will begin at the Woodmen Hall in the evening."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal August 31, 1909)

"On Friday evening of this week, February 18, Somers Camp Royal Neighbors of America No 4052 will give a basket social at Woodmen Hall.  The ladies will furnish baskets containing lunch for two and coffee will be served free.  The proceeds will be donated to the Modern Woodmen Sanitarium Fund.  Everybody is cordially invited and a social good time is promised all who attend.  it is to be hoped that Somers Camp Modern Woodmen of American No 828 will attend with their ladies and assist in aiding a most worthy cause.

"The Farmers' Institute will be held at Woodmen Hall on March 8 and 9.  A good program will be given each day.  Many subjects of interest and also instructive to the farmer will be treated.  A home talent program assisted by some able speaker is being arranged for the evening of March 8.  The ladies of the two churches of the village will serve dinner each day in the dining room.  Everybody will be interested in making this institute the best ever held in this community."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal February 15, 1910)

"The property of the Woodmen Hall Association is being greatly improved by grading up to the level of the highway in front of the hall."
(Source:  October 11, 1910)

"The question was presented, "shall the Town of Somers purchase the building known as Modern Woodmen Hall?"  The vote FOR was 57 and AGAINST was 132.
(Source:  Racine Journal April 5, 1922)