Center Point, Iowa - Celebrating 150 Years (2004)

Celebrating 150 Years Celebrating 150 Years
Center Point, Iowa
1854 - 2004

Aerial of Center Point taken in 2004.
Photo copyright of The Gazette, reprinted with permission.

i
Celebrating 150 Years
Center Point, Iowa
1854-2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pages
I.Acknowledgements and aerial photo circa 1948 iii-vii
II.General History
A. The Formative Years (1839-1904) 1-12
B. Challenging Years (1905-1954) 13-32
C. A Bedroom Community (1955-2004) 33-40
III.Businesses
A. Past Businesses 41-74
B. Walking Tour of Main Street Businesses 75-84
C. Current Businesses 85-100
IV.Organizations 101-113
V.Churches 114-122
VI.City Services 123-138
VII.Family Biographies 139-186
VIII.School History
A. The School Building and Growth 187-193
B. Bits and Pieces 194-200
C. The School Strike-1938 201-205
D. Athletic Highlights 206-216
E. Memorable Faces 217-226
IX.Doctors and Dentists
A. Doctors 227-234
B. Dentists 234-236
C. Album 237-241
D. Reminisce 242-244
X.Scrapbook 245-276

ii

iii
Acknowledgements
The Center Point Community Historical Society sponsored the compilation, editing and
publishing of this book. The book would not have been possible without the contributions from many
local residents. Every effort was made to involve the community in the contents of the book. Residents
were encouraged to submit articles on businesses, government, school, churches and personal family
histories. The response from the community was very gratifying.
Submitted articles were edited in an effort to keep the book balanced, factual, focused on
Center Point, and a reasonable length. Summarizing 150 years of history is a monumental task.
Deciding which stories to include and how much space should be given to particular topics was
challenging, especially when coordinating the activities of numerous volunteers. Effort was made
to research events included in the book and to compare the information to various sources: Marilyn
Andersen proofed the text for grammatical errors and Don Carver, Philip Andersen and Teresa
Scheeler scanned the material for historical accuracy. The Historical Society apologizes for any
errors or omissions of major stories or events.
Please contact the Center Point Community Historical Society regarding any errors
contained in the text. The Historical Society’s records will be updated so future historians can
build on the updated material.
The Historical Society recognizes the contributions of the following people. The Society
thanks Philip Andersen and Teresa Scheeler for providing the leadership to organize the sesquicentennial
celebration and this book. Responsibility for the sesquicentennial book was divided among Roberta
Gilchrist, Sue Novak, Philip Andersen, Deb Cress and Teresa Scheeler.
Roberta contacted residents to obtain articles regarding local government. She also assisted
with typing. Sue edited submitted material. Sue also researched and wrote the “General History”
section of the book and requested articles from residents related to area organizations. Philip researched
and wrote articles for the “Center Point Doctors and Dentists” section of the book. Deb researched and
wrote material related to the school. Teresa located volunteers who were willing to submit articles on
local churches, businesses and family biographies. She also researched and prepared various articles.
Philip and Teresa located the pictures that were incorporated into the book. Pictures were
gathered from the Historical Society’s collection, private collections and recent photographs taken by
Philip. Deb provided the necessary expertise to help others insert the pictures into the text. Teresa and
Deb then prepared the document in printing form.
The Historical Society also thanks the authors of the centennial book, “100 Years of Living”,
and Mary Gilchrist Holman and Sally Holman Hill who co-authored the book, “Through the 20
th
Century
in Center Point.” Additionally, written material submitted by Don Carver summarizing stories and
historical events gleaned from newspapers, personal experience and letters from friends was very much
appreciated. Finally, Del Mills, who wrote articles that were published in the Linn Newsletter, provide
a wealth of information. Much of the research from these earlier historians is repeated in the
sesquicentennial book.

iv
The Historical Society is particularly grateful for memories shared by the following Center
Point residents during interviews: Erma Busenbark, Tom and Eileen Neenan and Dale Matheny. Their
stories and insight provided human interest and historical depth to the book.
Tom Neenan also contributed the article appearing in “City Services”, entitled, “A Fifty Year
Review of Council Proceedings.” Tom’s summary recalls this city’s history from the perspective of an
office holder who has spent a major part of his life in either elective or appointive offices of this city
and county (more than 48 years).
Finally, the Historical Society thanks all the local business, organizations, and residents who submitted
articles for inclusion in the book. The names of people submitting material are noted at the conclusion of their
articles. A special thanks is also extended to the students from the Service Learning Class who, under the
leadership of Nancy Krapfl, submitted articles on approximately two-thirds of the city’s current businesses.
The sesquicentennial book is only one part of the city’s 150
th
celebration. Other activities to celebrate
the sesquicentennial would not have been possible without the donations and support of residents and local
businesses. Following is a list of contributors
Benefactor
Dr. Philip and DeEtta Andersen
Center Point Bank & Trust
Center Point Lions Club
Joensy’s
Junge Dodge
Pioneer
Ace Concrete
Dr. Kenneth N. and Marilyn Andersen
Dr. Kenneth M. and Betsy Andersen
Casey’s General Store
Center Point Jaycees
Corner Store
Dufoe Construction
Keystone Savings Bank
Main Street Renovation Project
Associate
Center Point Chiropractic
Center Point Floral
Center Point Insurance Agency
Craigs Appliance
David A. Farmer, Inc.
Dr. Terra and Shane Hickey
Ferring Homes
Labs Construction
MercyCare
Murdoch Funeral Home
Neighbor Insurance Agency
Sloan Photography
Windmill Landscaping

v
And so our story
begins . . .

vi
Aerial photo of Center Point around 1947-1950. Main Street runs horizontally thru center of photo with
Washington Street vertical on the left and State Street vertical on the right.
Washington Street
Main Street
Summit Street
Valley Street
Green Street

vii
Washington Street
Main Street
Water Street
State Street

1
General History
The Formative Years (1839-1904)
Early Settlers
Eastern Iowa was home to the Sac and Fox Indians in the early part of the nineteenth century.
The Black hawk Purchase of September 21, 1832, however, signaled the start of the Native Americans’
migration to the west. In the agreement, the tribes ceded a strip of land fifty miles west of the Mississippi
River to the United States. The tribes began to peacefully vacate the area in 1833.
Their departure from this area was accelerated when in February 1838, a treaty was ratified
which ceded an additional 1,250,000 acres. The border of this tract of land crossed the Red Cedar
River near the west line of Benton Township in Benton County.
It was on July 4, 1839, that two brothers, Bartimeus, age 27, and Hamilton McGonigle, age 32,
decided to move west to the new frontier. Bartimeus and his wife, Catherine, and their two children left
their home in Pennsylvania and joined up with Hamilton, his wife, Mary, and their three children living
in Ohio. Iowa was their destination. The area they chose to settle (later known as Center Point) was
very near the edge of the frontier. They selected a site near the edge of the woods where it projected into
the prairie. The section of the grove where they settled became known as “McGonigle’s Point.” Today
we believe their homes were located near the Fross Park and Cemetery area. The McGonigles were
successful at taming the prairie and providing for their families. Bartimeus later became one of the
first county officials. He was first appointed a judge of elections in 1841 at Michael Green’s house, a
Greens Grove’s precinct, one of three election precincts in Linn County. In 1842 and 1843, Bartimeus
served as a Commissioner of Linn County.
The McGonigles were not without a neighbor when they made their claims. Robert Osborn had
preceded them by a year, locating southeast of the present town site. Andrew Commings, Perry Oliphant
and Andrew Motes settled about three miles southeast in 1839. During this year, David S. Way and
Alexander Thomas made claims about the same distance west and north of the town. In 1840, several
other families put in an appearance, making claims in different parts of the township. This group of
pioneers formed the nucleus around which Center Point was formed.
McGonigle’s Point bustled with activity and the settlers in the area made it their headquarters.
It must have started to get crowded at McGonigle’s Point because in 1846 Hamilton McGonigle moved
his family further north to Buchanan County near Quasqueton. The Buchanan County history states
that in the middle and late 1840s many farmers from surrounding counties came to McGonigle’s Point
for their supply of corn. It was described as the “Egypt” of early settlers. In 1847, Bartimeus McGonigle
moved his family to Clayton County near Monona and sold his farm to Hiram Campbell. Hiram was
the first blacksmith in Center Point. Hiram kept the farm for two years before he sold it to Jesse
Grubbs.

2
Native Americans were also present during these early years. Early settlers remember Native
Americans who camped along the river. An early resident remembers the death of Chief Wacomo, who
died in approximately 1856. He was a Sac and Fox Indian. Their burial traditions included a custom
that after death, the Chief’s body was placed high on a platform of poles, until the moon was right for
burial. When that time arrived, the Chief’s pony was led to the grave and killed. The horse’s rope and
blanket were placed with the Chief, so they would be available to him in the spirit world.
On March 28, 1848, James Allenworth and Samuel M. Brice, trustees of Washington Township,
ordered a village plat to be laid off on the northeast quarter of section 16, township 85 north, range 8.
Andrew D. Botdorf, county surveyor, completed the survey in June 1848. That survey, however, was
never used. A second survey, completed by John McArthur in January 1854, was used to establish the
village of Center Point. Stephen Grubbs helped carry the chain when the survey was made. At the
time of the second survey, Hiram Campbell and Dr. S. M. Brice were the only residents on the town
plat. Dr. S. M. Brice was a practicing physician who also sold some goods.
The Hiram Campbell house was the second house erected on the town plat; the first was
McGonigle’s house. The Campbell house still stands today, at 1021 Main Street.
At the time the village was platted, naming the new village proved to be controversial. Many
felt that the McGonigles should be honored as the first settlers and the village remain known as
“McGonigle’s Point”. The majority, however, felt that the central location between Cedar Rapids and
Quasqueton and Cedar Rapids and Independence justified the name of “Central Point”. A compromise
name of “Centre Point” was selected. The spelling of the name was later changed due to popular usage.
As early as the 1870s, the railroad station used the current spelling on its sign and also printed tickets
using the new spelling. The name was officially revised to its present form on July 6, 1893. Records
indicate that the spelling of the town name was officially “Centerpoint” from December 1, 1895, to
December 1, 1905.
Early Businesses
Businesses and professional
people were attracted to the area.
Lawrence Hollenbeck opened the
first general store
in 1854 on the
southwest corner of Main and
Washington streets. John Milner
and a Mr. Nicholas followed Mr.
Hollenbeck’s example and they too
opened stores. These latter two
were open for only a short time.
Jesse Grubbs obtained an
abstract for his hotel, the
Washington House, in 1854. He
later changed the name to the
Central House. There were four
rooms, two upstairs and two
downstairs. Since the village had
no noon whistle, the owner of the
hotel would stand on the corner
every noon and ring a hand held
school bell to announce lunch.
The first business house in Center Point built in1852. Located on east side of
Main Street between Washington and State streets. Original owner unkown,
but in 1877 when this picture was taken, P. Kewley had a clothing store here.
In the rear of the picture on the left you can see the spires of the Congrega-
tional Church at the NW corner of Franklin and Washington streets. Above
the “S” in Groceries, you can see the Rock Island Depot.

3
One of the first businesses in Center Point, built in 1854 by John Carr. James Bartelson went into business with
Mr. Carr and married his daughter Amanda. The Bartelson home is on the left and the Carr home on the right.
These buildings are located on the east side of Main Street between State and Olive streets.
Picture taken 1872 west side of Main Street, Olive Street corner where Golden Age Housing is today. l-r: J. F.
Wilson Drug Store built 1870, George W. Wettstein, Jeweler, J. A. Fairbanks Studio, built 1870.

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After the town was surveyed, George Mitchell opened a second hotel in a house that was built by Mr.
Whitney. The hotel was known as Montour House and was located on east side of Main Street south of the
post office between Washington and State streets.
Dr. J. F. Wilson arrived in 1855 with his two sons. He opened the first drug store. Cabin and Benham
came shortly afterward and opened the first general store, complete with potbelly stove and cracker barrel.
Center Point had its first taste of scandal in 1855. Mr. Brain came to the village and solicited $2,000
from local residents to establish a flourmill. After the erection of the building was complete, he borrowed
additional money to purchase machinery for the mill. Apparently, the venture lost its appeal. Mr. Brain left the
scene abruptly, leaving behind a stack of unpaid bills, not the least of which was the $2,000 borrowed from the
people. The mill burned in 1864 in what was one of Center Point’s first big fires.
Additional stores continued to spring up in the village. John Carr established a general store in 1855
between State and Olive streets. Nathan Johnson succeeded him in his business venture. W. I. Langsdale
settled in the county in 1849 and in the village in 1856, where he operated a general merchandise business. In
1857, William Nevin and H. D. Metcalfe opened a general store. Philip Kewley established a business about
1861 and then sold it in 1877 to the Wayne Brothers.
For many years an old flour and carding mill stood in the southeast part of town. The mill was
not profitable and was relocated to Jesup by Joseph Ketchledge and Co. in 1870. The Diamond Mills,
operated both by steam and water, was another mill in the area.
Mr. Manahan built the first brick building on the corner of State and Main streets in 1858. The
building was used as a wagon shop and blacksmith shop. Later the building was used to sell farm
implements. A. Manahan constructed another business building that was made of brick in the same
year. The building was a one-story structure that was used as the first post office. Samuel Brice was
Center Point’s first postmaster.
As the village grew, residents began to demand services. W. L. Bliss was the first professional
carpenter to settle in the village in 1855. He later became a very efficient cabinetmaker, a trade he
practiced for 15 years.
In the 1870s, A. Kubias started the first harness shop. L. C. Wilson was the first jeweler,
opening his business about 1880. Mr. Sniffen was one of the first lawyers. Loren Oliphant was the first
dentist. He also farmed to make ends meet.
Transportation/School
H. D. Newland
operated one of the first
public livery stables. The
Murdoch Funeral Home was
the site of the livery barn.
Stagecoach drivers stopped
at the barn to feed and water
their horses. Riding and
driving the stagecoach was
no easy matter. There were
no bridges and streams had
to be forded when the ice
would not hold. Many
times, the stage had to be
pulled out from being stuck
Railroad Depot built 1873

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either in snow or mud. Mr. James Bartleson received $12 per month to carry mail between Cedar Rapids and
Center Point on the stagecoach. The fare for riding the stage from Cedar Rapids to Waterloo was $1.
Residents knew that their village was not likely to survive unless a railroad ran through it. Residents of
the community appropriated $16,000 to the Burlington, Cedar Rapids and Northern Railroad. A five per cent
tax was levied in Washington Township to raise the necessary funds. Some of the funds were used by the
railroad and the balance was used to secure the right-of-way through Washington and Grant townships. The
rail line was completed to Center Point in the fall of 1873.
Some controversy surrounded the establishment of the railroad. People living in the northern portion
of the township that were opposed to the tax, petitioned for a division of the territory and the formation of a
new township. They succeeded in the formation of a new township, designated as Grant Township, in honor
of General Grant, who was then president. Unfortunately, their plan to avoid the tax failed. Some of the
people who most vigorously opposed the tax later established businesses in the new town of Walker.
The Rock Island Railroad station was one of the largest gathering places in the community. Hardly a
day would pass that the station would not be crowded with local citizens who were on hand, not to meet any
special person, but to see who was coming and going. The editor of the Center Point newspaper considered
the railroad station his most important news beat. Unfortunately, by the time he had the railroad station news
printed, everybody in town was aware of it anyway.
With the arrival of the railroad, more businesses and families were attracted to the area. The railroad
depot handled four passenger trains and six freight trains daily. Another hotel, the “Brooklyn House”, was
built.
Schools were an integral part of the community. In 1856, youngsters in Center Point began learning
“readin’, ritin’ and rithmatic” at the first district school. The school was housed in a log structure that was built
just northwest of town. The stern taskmaster, Mr. Wilcox, taught the first classes. It is rumored that all
youngsters had a healthy respect for their teacher. A schoolhouse was later built in town in 1858. J. H.
Hammond was the first teacher of that school; G. B. Dunbar succeeded him.
In 1875, the citizens of the community saw that they were faced with a problem of overcrowding in the
school and so another addition, equal in size to the original one, was built. The community now boasted of a
four-room school.
Rock Island Depot, north bound train 1915

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Fact or Fiction
Sometimes it is difficult to separate fact from folklore as illustrated by the stories surrounding “Horse
Thief Cave.” Horse thieves operating in the area are rumored to have hidden stolen horses in a local cave,
which came to be known as “Horse Thief Cave.” Some say that the horses were driven from the south and
then led through the river to confuse trackers. The cave’s location was west of Center Point. One person,
who claims to have visited the cave, remembers that there was a tunnel, which connected the cave to the banks
of the Cedar River at a location known as Sand Prairie. Over time, the tunnel began to collapse and the main
cave as well as the opening near the river were sealed shut. Dave Craig remembers slipping thru the narrow
opening of the cave as a youngster and dropping stones into the hole and it would take some time before the
stones would hit water. One morning before school Dave and a friend tried to dynamite the opening, but to no
avail. Remnants of the cave opening are still visible on the Raymond Attwood farm.
Dr. Kenneth Andersen remembers another story related to the cave. Ray Knight, who heard the
original version from his uncle, told this story to Dr. Andersen. In the early morning hours around the
year 1880, a mob of local residents marched through town carrying large kerosene soaked torches.
Several men with megaphones were shouting to wake local residents.
The men claimed that a horse thief named Brody had been apprehended. Local residents had
found stolen horses at a hidden cave. Brody’s claims that he found the horses were dismissed. The
mob proceeded to the northeast corner of Vine and Summit streets where, at that time, there was a large
pine tree. The “horse thief” was hoisted into the air while some spectators cheered and others protested.
The story of the hanging cannot be substantiated. Several gangs of horse thieves have been
documented in Linn County from the 1840s to the 1850’s. One of the more prominent gangs was the
Brody gang. The group was reputed to be involved in stealing horses, counterfeiting and selling whiskey
to Indians. Rumor had it that a family member appeared before every session of the Linn County court.
There is no way to substantiate the rumor since no records can be found. It is highly unlikely that the
incident told to Dr. Andersen is accurate because the dates don’t match, the Center Point marshal would
likely have objected to the hanging and no records exist in early history accounts. Readers will need to
decide for themselves whether “Horse Thief Cave” actually existed.
Early history records, however, do document a shooting. William Langsdale was indicted for
killing Joseph Barnes in July, 1872, at the Langsdale Store. The testimony filed in the office of the
Clerk indicates that Barnes was drunk when he started a fight with another customer. Mr. Langsdale
pulled a pistol from behind the counter and shot Mr. Barnes. Barnes was taken to a doctor’s office
where he died. Langsdale was tried in March 1873. The jury returned a verdict of not guilty.
Early Life
Early life in Center Point can be visualized by thumbing through the pages of old local newspapers
and reading between the lines. For example, an advertisement for the “National Billiard Hall”, a business
owned by Mr. Manahan, offered “a choice stock of cigars, ale, beer, cheese, crackers, bologna and
herring.” This venue was sold in an atmosphere of clicking cue balls and pool cues.
Dr. J. F. Wilson owned the first newspaper, the
Center Point Lotus. Ownership of the paper had
several benefits. The doctor used the presses to print the labels on the patent medicine sold in his drug
store. He also advertised the wares of his drug store.
Libel suits must have been very rare in those early days. Articles based upon hearsay, rumors and
anything that might catch the interest of the public were printed in the Lotus. For example, the Lotus printed
a story in May stating “Ed Lytle, a former resident of Center Point, was hung by a mob in Kansas for claim
jumping.” A retraction appeared in a July issue of the paper. “A letter from Ed Lytle informs us that he was not

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Memorial Day Parade in 1897, marchinig to the cemetery.
Looking SW in 900 block of Main Street.
Above is the same view in 2004. Notice the three buildings in the foreground that are still
standing today. The two sotry building in center was built in 1878b George Bliss as a general
merchandise store.

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hung by a mob in Kansas as stated in the Lotus on May 29
th
.”
One can imagine an irate Ed Lytle writing a rather venomous
letter to the paper. The editor probably refrained from quoting
much of the content of Ed Lytle’s letter.
The newspaper also exerted influence on initiatives aimed
at improving the village. A half page advertisement appeared in
the Lotus. Editor T. J. Metcalf printed an appeal to the residents.
He alleged that if Center Point ever expected to get ahead and
progress as a town, sidewalks should be built. He also argued
that a bridge should be erected across the creek so that citizens
could get to the depot without having to wade through the creek.
Editor Metcalf’s appeal carried some weight with the citizens
but not without another long and hard fight. Eventually, a bridge
was installed and traffic to the depot was able to go across the
creek without danger of getting soaked or of catching pneumonia.
The bridge across the creek was erected on November 13, 1873.
The village continued to grow and prosper. Residents began
to talk about whether Center Point should be incorporated into
a town. L.L. Wilson, William Neven, Abraham Snyder and Peter
Folkins drew up incorporation papers. Opponents of the idea
warned that taxes would skyrocket. After many months of
bickering back and forth, the citizens finally trooped to the polls
on February 14, 1874 to decide whether or not Center Point
should be an incorporated town. The incorporation failed to pass by a vote of 63 to 61.
Advocates of the incorporation refused to give up. They succeeded in getting the issue before the
voters on February 19, 1875. This time the incorporation passed and Center Point became a town. The first
City officials were elected on March 20
th
, at the Central House.
About one o’clock, April 16, 1875, the fire alarm resounded through the village. Contents of
W.I. Langsdale’s store on Main Street had caught fire. A strong wind was blowing from the northeast and the
fire rapidly spread to adjoining buildings. The resulting loss from the fire totaled $20,000 and affected six
businesses. Mr. Langsdale soon
rebuilt and in 1878 G. C. Bliss
erected a two-story brick building
to be used as a general merchandise
store on the northwest corner of
Main and Washington streets. (See
picture on page 7.)
Tragedy rocked the town
a second time in January 1877 with
the suicides of two young residents.
Flora Hunt, age 16, committed
suicide by ingesting strychnine. She
was upset because of her parent’s
refusal to allow her to marry James
Bartlett Osborn. Her death was
followed by James’ suicide later
that month. James, age 20, left
Interior of Holland Furniture Store.
Holland Furniture Store built in 1877. Stood
just south of the site where Paul Reveres Pizza
is today. Standing in doorway Steven
Firtzgarrald, J. W. Holland. Children Jessie
Cheadle, Ida Holland, Fern Cheadle (wagon)
and Bobbie Atchinson.

9
4th of July parade in 1901. Looking SW from the corner of Main and State Streets.
This is the same view as above picture in 2004.

10
letters to his friends, stating that he didn’t want to live without Flora. He shot himself in the chest. He and Flora
were buried beside each other at James’ request.
One of the “big” industries to come to Center Point was the soap factory in 1877. Mr. Lanning
surveyed this town of 700 persons and decided to put his lather product into production in this town. Whatever
happened to that industry is not known.
Another business owner, M. A. Snow, announced that he tanned the hides, made the leather,
and manufactured the boots he sold to the customers in his store. Brunt Hillard, a local merchant,
advertised that he sold groceries “cheap”—for cash. It would appear that these early merchants grappled
with the issue of extending credit to their customers.
Other merchants on the local scene in those days were Wilson’s Drug, A. Manahan-Blacksmith
(“where horseshoeing was a specialty”) and Corey’s. Corey’s ads were short and sweet. “If you want a
mess of parsnips or a sack of flour get it at Corey’s.” McCurdy’s Wagon Shop opened on Washington
Street in the late years of the 19
th
century.
In 1878, business interests of Center Point included: seven general stores, two hardware stores,
two grocery stores, three millineries, two restaurants, three billiard and beer saloons, two art and
photograph galleries, two furniture stores, two shoe makers, three blacksmiths, three wagon-makers,
two meat markets, a cooper, three carpenters, and a harness maker. There were also two lawyers, W. F.
Fitzgerald and H. W. Printy, and three physicians, L.W. Davis, J. S. Winans, and F. M. Yost.
Although no one could classify this bustling town as a “dead town”, it nevertheless seemed to have
more than its share of undertakers. One could argue that with three undertakers, although Center Point was a
nice place to live, it was most certainly one of the best places to die.
Perhaps the presence of three undertakers in the small town can explain the need for aggressive
advertising. Wilson S. Bliss advertised that he had on hand a good supply of ready-made coffins that he
would sell at a price as low as the lowest. Wilson was a furniture and cabinetmaker who also advertised
shrouds and burial garments for sale. E. Metcalfe informed the buying (or dying) public that he kept on hand
all sizes of ready made coffins.
The third undertaker, John Wesley Holland, did most of his advertising through personal calls. It was
noted that when John married, every male in town was on a cigar-smoking binge courtesy of JWH. The
effectiveness of the cigars relative to increasing business was never decided.
Recreation
Early Center Point residents took time from their busy schedules to socialize and recreate.
Myers Coronet band was organized in October, 1872, in D. G. Manahan’s billiard hall. The band,
under the charge of Professor L.D. Porter, continued to entertain area residents until 1905.
In December, 1873, a brass band was organized under the direction of Professor Ferguson. The
entire band’s instruments were purchased for a price of $275. This band became synonymous with
Center Point’s entertainment.
When baseball was first played as a team game in this community, a yarn ball was used and the
pitchers threw with an underhand motion, much the same as softball today. Apparently there were no
leagues at that time and no records kept. At one time in the early days of Center Point a team was
organized by the Myers’ Bros., but few if any local players were used. All the men were hired to play
and the team traveled to all parts of the state.
One of the big social highlights of the year was the Grand Ball. The gala event took place during the
Christmas season. Folks from miles around eagerly gathered to “trip the light fantastic” and do a little “sparking.”
Many a romance owed its beginning to the lilting strains of Manahan and Izer’s orchestra.

11
The Grand Ball also boasted other tales. Apparently, a Native American who was camped outside of
town raided the Ball. He had consumed quite a bit of alcohol and that probably explains why he subsequently
tried to “scalp” some of the dancers. Bustles and hoop skirts moved rapidly and shrill screams filled the air
before the young man was cornered and locked up. Luckily there were no casualties.
Out of town shows were welcomed at the G.A.R. Hall, located on State Street. The Hall was
used to stage old time medicine shows, state shows, local commencements, Decoration Day exercises
and dance. An article that appeared in the Center Point newspaper, announced the arrival of the Cherry
Sisters. The editor wrote, “The vegetables are just about the right size to toss on the stage very handily,
the only draw back being the smallness of the cabbage heads.”
The enraged sisters flogged the editor with horsewhips when they arrived. The sisters were later
arrested and fined. They performed that evening as planned. The show was a flop, taking in only nine dollars
at the box office.
The arrival of the Ringling Brothers circus was usually a cause for celebration. However, when the
circus pulled their wagons into
town in 1870s, it had been raining
for several days and the roads had
become so mired that travel was
impossible. The circus was unable
to put on a show. They were out
of feed for the animals and had no
money to buy feed or food for the
people working for them. The
people of Center Point came to
the rescue. Farmers donated feed.
Women baked bread and made
meals for the people. When the
weather cleared, the circus
wagons were able to travel to
Vinton for their next scheduled
show.
Ringling Bros. promised
Center Point that at a future time
they would provide a free show. A representative came to town several years later. Unfortunately, he told the
mayor that the circus’s two long trains of cars could not be accommodated because of the lack of sidetracks
at the Rock Island depot.
It is interesting to note that two other versions of this story have been told. The second version
involves the sheriff who threatened to close the show because of outstanding debts from other
performances. A third version describes the circus performers and downtrodden and bankrupt. The
reader will need to decide which version is most accurate.
Social life of another sort was described in an early issue of the Lotus. The editor noted “a
certain individual left his horse tied to a hitching post all day with a temperature of 10 below zero while
he made a swill tub of himself at a local saloon.” The editor informed the erring individual that if it
happened again he would personally turn his horse loose so that it could go home. Although the individual was
not named, chances are that 99% of the “Lotus” readers knew his identity.
Center Point’s proximity to the Cedar River provided additional atmosphere to the town. The “toot”
of the steamer “Carrie Wallace”, as she chugged up the Cedar a couple of miles from town, was a familiar
4th of July Parade in 1901. First bicycle, Marie Gitchell; second bicycle, Walter
Zimmerman.

12
sound. Fay Strait remembers being told that the steamboat burst its boiler and sank, killing one crewman, as
it rounded the curve at Blue Banks.
On July 4, 1884, Center Point sponsored a huge celebration. Hotels, private homes, sidewalks
and streets were crammed with crowds of people who wanted to witness the reenactment of a civil war
battle. According to a newspaper article, 7,000 people witnessed the battle between the Union and Confederacy
that day.
The festivities began with a grand march that included the soldiers who were participating in the
reenactment, veterans, businessmen, a cornet band, and a chariot bearing thirty young ladies representing
several states. Crowds were then entertained by musical selections performed by the choir and a reading of
the Declaration of Independence.
At 3:00 p.m. the soldiers headed for the battleground, located west of the depot and east of the
Christian Church. Looking northward, the Union troops approached with fife and drum under Commander
Wilson. They formed a battle line. Captain Stark’s battery, with a confederate flag floating above them,
manned a black 12-pounder cannon. Sounds of artillery and volleys of musketry captured the crowd’s attention.
Defiant yells of “Johnnies” and cheers of Union forces as the “Johnnies” fought desperately to regain their lost
position thrilled the crowd.
Following the battle were games that included sack, egg, foot and wheelbarrow races on the street.
That evening a dance was held at the Union Hall. To help promote the day, the B. C. R. & N. Railway sold
round trip excursion tickets to Center Point as one fare for the round trip.
July 4, 1884 Sham Battle re-enactment of a civil war battle by Center Point troops.
Site of southwest of Rock Island Depot.

13
Challenging Times (1905-1954)
This era starts with national fame achieved by a local boy. Jack Reynolds, from the farming
community of Green’s Grove (located five miles south of town), started wrestling in approximately
1905. He later won the world welterweight championship. He held the belt for twelve years.
A horse from this vicinity also attracted attention outside the local area. The pacing stallion,
Urbana Mack, paced the mile in two minutes, twelve and one quarter seconds in 1907. Beginning in
1893, residents were entertained by watching horse races throughout the summer. The horse track,
known as Driving Park, was located a couple of hundred yards behind today’s Corner Store.
Early in 1911, a petition was circulated to determine whether the town should be bonded for
$12,000 to install electric lights. On March 4
th
of that year, the election was held and the proposition
carried three to one. A contract was negotiated with F. J. Cross to install poles, wire and lights in the
town. The electricity needed was to be produced in Center Point. Before any work began, opponents
of the proposition successfully argued that the election was “illegal.”
Another election was held on July 31, 1911, and the proposition was voted down. Center Point
was still without electricity.
In 1912, Mr. Cross approached the town with a new proposition of bringing electrical current to
Center Point from a Central City electrical plant. Electricity finally arrived in Center Point. During
that same year, water mains were installed in the city.
A shooting in July 1915 shocked the town. The incident involved Mr. Cochran, a former Marshal
of Center Point, and Wayne Hoglan. Both men were drunk when Cochran shot Hoglan, killing him.
Cochran was later acquitted.
Railroads
The Rock Island Railroad was doing a brisk business in Center Point in 1914. The depot was
located across the tracks from today’s Museum Depot. This depot was torn down in the late 1970s.
Dale Matheny remembers that the depot looked just like the building that still stands in Walker today.
The railroad had a passenger service as well as a freight service. The train ran through Walker and
Independence. The freight train serviced the lumberyard and the grain elevator. Drayman would line
up waiting for the train to arrive so they could transport goods to the Main Street businesses.
By 1913, L.S. Cass, owner of the Waterloo, Cedar Falls and Northern (WCF&N), was exploring
expansion of his Waterloo based line to Cedar Rapids. Townspeople who would be served by the line
were expected to buy shares of the company stock and farmers were expected to give up land. An
article that appeared in the
Cedar Rapids Times on July 4, 1913, proved that the railroad was not
Rock Island Depot in 1910 with freight train heading south out of town.

14
without opposition. “The interurban is hung
up at a point between Center Point and
Urbana, where landowners near Center Point
and between Center Point and Urbana refuse
to give right of way. Many of the people in
Center Point feel they already have rail access
to Cedar Rapids and don’t need more. They
feel Cass should come up with more money
for the project.” In the end, the people of
Center Point subscribed to $50,000 worth of
stock.
A second set of railroad tracks was laid
when the WCF&N, known as the interurban
rail line, reached Center Point in 1914.
The train was electric and connected
Cedar Rapids to Waterloo, Cedar Falls
and Waverly. The depot housed
electrical equipment, which changed
alternating current to the direct current
needed to power the electric trains.
Passenger cars stopped twelve times
daily. The line also had freight and
stock trains.
The WCF&N bought seven
McGuire-Cummings Electrics to
operate the interurban service. Four
of the cars were a simple design. The
other three cars were quite elegant.
Mirror panels, quarter-sawn oak and
wicker chairs with leather upholstery
graced the interiors. These cars were
operated for extra-fares. Patrons were
Crew laying tracks for interurban 1913. Fourth person from right
is Charley Edaburn.
First W. C. F. & N. interurban train to Center Point in 1914.
Interurban construction crew 1913.

15
W. C. F. & N. interurban electric railroad 1914. Train ran stopped here every sixty minutes connecting Waterloo and Cedar
Rapids. The electrical equipment changed alternating current into direct current.
Interior of a parlor car on the interurban railroad circa 1920. A first class ticket purchase gave you these accomodations.
Notice the spittons next to the wicker chairs.

16
Center Point Band circa 1911. Jesse Joyce is behind the drums.
(Notice photos inserted in upper corners and unusual Fairbanks logo to the right of the drum.)
The wooden struture on
the right is the band stand
which provided many
years of entertainment for
Center Point. Band
nights were Wednesday
and Saturdays when the
town would swell with
shoppers and merryment.

17
able to purchase lunches and other refreshments from a buffet operated out of the baggage compartment
on the extra-fare trips.
The first station in Center Point was a converted boxcar. Later, when the present depot was
built, the railroad sponsored an ox roast to celebrate.
Dale Matheny remembers that both depots employed full time agents in the 1920s. He also
remembers that a telegraph station was located in the Rock Island terminal.
World War I/Spanish Influenza
The First World War brought changes to Center Point. An article in the local newspaper warns
that stores could open no earlier than 8:30 and close no later than 5:30, by order of the State Fuel
Administration. Another article discussed the ban on killing hens in the United States. Apparently, by
restricting the killing of chickens, which could be heavy layers, the Food Administration hoped to
increase the production of eggs. An article appearing in the June 14, 1917 Center Point Independent
stated that 108 young men from Washington Township signed themselves as eligible to be drafted. The
article went on to state that only four or five of the young men from the township had requested an
exemption from the draft. The article claimed that the average percentage of men requesting exemption
from the draft in the state was fifty percent.
During the First World War, Mary Holman remembers that the latest hairstyle was to tease the
hair into puffs over your ears. The “puffs” were called “cootie garages”, a phrase coined from the
soldiers. A hairstyle known as “Marcel” was the next fashion craze. This hairdo was styled with a
heated iron that created waves. Mary thought machine permanents were much better, if you didn’t
mind being “hooked up for what seemed like hours to electricity attached to the hair.”
Veterans had barely returned from the war when a new killer attacked. Local doctors were
challenged in October 1918 by the outbreak of the Spanish Influenza. The Center Point newspaper
warned, “Fresh air was imperative to help prevent the disease. Schools should keep air pure and moist.
People should not be in crowded motion picture houses.” The Center Point newspaper carried articles
on high absenteeism rates at the school and residents who were stricken by the flu. The number of
obituaries for old and young residents increased.
At a special meeting of the Center Point Town Council on October 16, 1918, a resolution was
unanimously passed closing all places of amusement, churches, schools, lodges and public gatherings
(including public funerals) unless the gatherings were held in the open air. The Center Point School
was not opened until three weeks later.
Since vaccinations were not available to combat the threat, people resorted to some unusual
remedies. Some sprinkled a ring of carbolic acid around their feet when they boarded public
transportation. Others sprayed disinfectant on buses. Youngsters tied camphor bags around their necks.
Vicks Vapor Rub was touted as an effective treatment to “throw off the bug.”
Doctors were also challenged in other ways. Doris Whitmore remembers the 1920s as a period
when doctors made house calls. The image this invokes, however, is not quite as comforting as one
would suspect. When Doris and her two brothers needed to have their tonsils and adenoids removed,
Dr. Stansberry and his nurse came to their home in Lafayette, Iowa. The dining room table served as
the operating table. Each patient was then taken to his or her own bed after the surgery. The nurse
stayed overnight in case of any abnormal bleeding. Doris clearly remembers the pain as well as the
bottle of strawberry pop she received as a “treat” for all her suffering.

18
The Roaring Twenties
Automobiles began to become popular. An article in the Center Point paper announced that
Tom Gardener and D.A. Halloway drove 210 miles in 12 hours. Another article appearing on May 1,
1919, states, “Jake Hoglan will no doubt be doing foolish stunts which we will be able to get before our
readers in the near future, as he has just bought himself and the family a new Ford.”
Business hours in the mid 1920s must have been very accommodating. An April 17, 1924
announcement appeared in the Center Point paper, “The merchants of Center Point have come to the
Scene from “Tony The Con-
vict”, Act V, scene ‘Drop It
Jim’, 1912. This play was
put on for over ten years at
the GAR Hall by community
actors.
l-r: Orval Newland with knife,
Elzo Newland, Fern Struchen,
Harry Houser, Maud Joyce,
Frank Thompson and Jesse
Joyce with gun.
Emery McArthur at his farm on Green Street in 1918. His farm was the site of the high school’s baseball and
football fields during the early 1900s. Notice the school house in the background (center of photo).

19
conclusions that there is no reason to stay in these businesses night and day. They agreed among
themselves May 1 to close Tuesday and Thursday at 6:00 p.m.
A surge in the popularity of baseball during the “Roaring Twenties” brought teams and players
to town. One of the more memorable teams was the Hot Stove League. Old Pointer fans may remember
names such as: Ed Wirsching, August “Dutch” Steinberg, Ray “Kratz” Langsdale, Vernon Kirk, Earl
“Mouse” Stewart, Joe Roeder, and Ross “Dusty” Lockhart. The above league members played at a
time when baseball enthusiasm was at its peak in Center Point.
The games at that time were played at McArthur’s field at the western edge of town. There was
an intense rivalry between Center Point and Walker. Huge crowds and overflow parking often lined the
street on both sides for a distance of two blocks in each direction from the park. Early fans recall
showering Bill Hoyman with silver dollars as he crossed home plate after hitting a home run to defeat
Walker in an extra inning game.
The Depression
The Depression began with
the stock market crash in October
1929. The town really began to feel
the pressure when the Center Point
Bank failed in December 1930. Erma
Busenbark vividly remembers this
period in the town’s history. She
recalls the railroad “bums” that would
come into town. The men would first
stop at the meat market to get a soup
bone. Then they would come into Ike
Street’s Grocery Store to get a nickel
loaf of bread, potatoes and onions.
The bums would spend the night in
the old jailhouse where beds, a stove
and heat were made available by the town.
Erma remembers that residents got through this challenging period in various ways. Some
relied on other family members for financial support. Others obtained “scripts” from Linn County,
which were used to purchase groceries and coal. Most people during this time had chickens, eggs and
large gardens. Women canned the fall’s produce so food was usually available. Men tried to earn some
cash by cutting and selling firewood.
Erma recalls that salesmen often received produce and other goods in exchange for the products
they sold. She remembers one family of a salesman who had to wait for their father to get home each
evening to see what would be served for supper.
The Grubbs’ family also recalls the devastating years associated with the Depression. By 1931,
the Grubbs property in Center Point had shrunk to the homestead and two large adjoining lots at the
Northeast corner of Franklin and Washington streets. Frank and Ida Loretta Grubbs lost everything
with the closing of their store. Their youngest son, Marion, his wife Ida E. (Miller) and infant daughter,
Jetta, moved in to help with expenses. Ida L.’s parents, Abraham & Catherine Gable, also shared the
home.
During the Depression, membership in clubs and organizations provided much of the social life
for residents. Groups would meet to play cards, enjoy potlucks and share recipes. Despite the tough
Pearl Lyman with his first tractor during the 1920s. Being pulled out of the
mud by an old car. Look at the smoke from the car.

20
economic times, the town
survived and by 1932, the
population of Center Point was
approximately 720 people.
Infrastructure
In 1929, construction on
a highway that was to run through
Center Point began. Dale
Matheny remembers that local
merchants were upset that the new
highway would change the main
road in town. They were
concerned about the possible loss
of business if the highway didn’t pass through the Main Street business section of town. The original
main route through town ran from Water Street, north of the veterinary’s office, to Main Street. The
road continued north through the downtown area before it turned east on the corner of Main and
Washington Streets and joined Franklin Street.
Dale remembers that horses were used to grade the road. When the road first opened, it was
known as the “Red Ball” Road. The dirt road was so named because of the road markers that were
white posts with a red ball, painted on the top. Dale also remembers that the gravel that was used for
the road was red. This same year marks the construction of the bridge by the Christian Church. After
paving was complete, the road was renamed Highway 11 and regular signs were installed to mark the
highway. The highway number was later changed to 150.
Center Point had no municipal sewer system in the 1930s. Approximately sixty percent of the
town residents pumped water from individual wells and also depended on ‘privies’ out back for
sanitation. Washing clothes was a monumental undertaking. The Grubbs family remembers that laundry
day began at about 5 a.m. by heating water on the cook stove. The clothes were always hung outside on
a line to dry. In the winter, the
wash would be somewhat dry and
frozen stiff when the clothes were
brought back to the house.
The 1930s
During this period, high
school sports were not really
spectators’ events. Other students
would watch the games, but few
parents would attend. Rural
students who wanted to
participate in sports had to arrange
sleeping quarters in town if they
wanted to be involved.
Two independent
basketball teams played in Center
1929 construction of Highway No. 11 (later called Franklin Street) Center Point.
Skelly Oilers Semi-Pro Girls Basketball Team, 1935.
l-r: Agatha Jones, Fran Neighbor, Mabel Floyd, Harry Brookman, Fern
Ralston, Freda Hendryx, Betty Whitmore, Amorita Roberts

21
Same view in 2004.
Early 1940s, Main Street, looking NE from the steps of the Farmers Savings Bank building.

22
Point in the 1930s. The men’s team was known as the Center Point Merchants and was composed of
former high school stars. The girl’s team was known as Brookman’s Skelly Oilers and was made up of
former high school players.
Mary Cook and Esther Carman remember renting a sleeping room at the Commercial Hotel in
1933 to 1934. The girls were attending high school and wanted to participate on the basketball team.
Both were from the country and traveling home after practice became problematic in the winter. The
girls rented a room for $2 per week. Furnishings consisted of a cot, an old shelf that became a cupboard,
an old wardrobe for their clothes and a three-burner oil stove for cooking. Their refrigeration was the
space between the window glass and the screen. Their bathroom was shared and served the needs of the
entire floor. Eventually, the girls were asked to leave because of complaints made by other tenants
about the noise the girls made when they’d come home from games.
In 1936, Mary Holman recalls a really big blizzard. When the Central City Road finally opened
for traffic, the snow was piled much higher than the car on both sides of the road. She took a picture of
a railroad engine on the track north
of town. The snow was piled higher
than the engine.
The community mourned the
tragic deaths of Donald Wayne
Hunter, age 5, and Lester Darwin
Butterfield, age 6, who drowned on
March 4, 1938. Donald was the son
of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Hunter and
Lester the son of Mr. and Mrs.
Darwin Butterfield. The children
drowned in Grubbs creek, behind
where Joensy’s Restaurant is located
today.
The playmates had gone to
the Hunter home to play after school.
About 5 o’clock, Mrs. Hunter called
the boys, but got no response. She
started searching along the creek where she found her son trapped below the ice. Bill Dye helped
retrieve Wayne’s body from the water. Roy and George Floyd located Lester on the bottom of the pool.
The boys were believed to be in the water for up to an hour. Separate funeral services were held for
each boy at the Christian and Methodist churches.
In the spring of 1938, approximately 88 high school students chained the doors of the school in
a weeklong strike to protest the removal of Alfred Pierce, the principal and high school coach, and two
other teachers. The students wanted Pierce retained so they could play their baseball schedule, which
was due to start in a few weeks. It is not clear what prompted the school board to take their action.
Some believe it was related to Pierce’s role in promoting bad sportsmanship.
The strike was finally concluded five days later when the school board relented and retained all
teachers until the end of the school year as demanded by the strikers. Three of the school board members
resigned after the agreement was reached. Other fall-out from the strike included the removal of Center
Point from the Iowa State High School Athletic Association until November 1938. Center Point students
were also banned from participating in the Linn County Invitational Music Festival in May. (See
related story in the “School Section” of the book.)
Drowning victims 1938
Donald Hunter and Darwin Butterfield

23
Entertainment
Children of this period were masters at using their imaginations. They explored their surroundings
and neighbors. Sally Hill remembers “helping” the local veterinarian take care of the horses, which
were sheltered in the big barn beside the creek on Washington Street. One summer, Harlan Connely
trained show horses in the corral and local children came to watch the spectacle.
Sally also remembers trying to fish in the creek on the other side of Doc’s barn. She admits that
she usually only caught minnows and crawdads. She describes it as “one of her favorite places to play
and the main cause of getting spanked.” Apparently,
the creek was a sewer creek used by the town and
consequently, her mother was not too thrilled that
her daughter decided to play in the water.
Other sections of the creek must have been cleaner.
Sally remembers that the deepest part of the creek
was across the highway from the Christian Church.
There was a bend in the creek that became a favorite
place to swim and float rafts. The banks were sandy
and “sort of clean.”
The area now known as Wakema Park was also a
great place to play. Children climbed the weeping
willow trees and made whips and whistles from the
leaves and branches. The footbridge leading into
the area also became a source of fun. Children would stand on one side of the footbridge, causing it to
flip and dump them into the water. Once in the water, many figured they would stay and play. On
summer evenings, many children gathered to play hide-and-seek and chalk-the-rabbit.
Entertainment also involved movies. Movies were first shown outside. Later the town welcomed
a new movie theater. The theater was located at the site of the Post Office and the Day Care Center.
Don Carver has many memories associated with the theater. He recalls that there was only one projector,
so when one reel ran out the crowd had to wait until the next reel was started. “Stomping of feet,”
meant that the operation had taken longer than the crowd thought it should.
Don relates the following building attributes. Readers who sell insurance may want to sit down
before continuing. The following tales may cause heart palpitations.
Don remembers a pot-bellied wood stove near the front of the theater. The stove was located on
the opposite side of the building from the chimney with a long run of overhead stove pipes that connected
the two. One evening a section of the stovepipes separated. The ensuing shower of ashes and soot had
the crowd rushing for the doors. Don’s biggest regret was missing the next episode of Captain Marvel
that night.
Another unique feature to the building was a huge hole in the floor near the movie screen. One
night after the movie had started, the silhouette of a man searching for a seat was seen on the screen.
Several members of the audience tried to shout out a warning, but it was too late. The man’s shadow
suddenly disappeared from the screen. Fortunately, he was more embarrassed than injured.
Seating consisted of old church pews in the middle and folding chairs along each side of the
walls. The folding chairs were flimsy and seasoned patrons avoided them. Don remembers one night
when a large man destroyed one of the chairs, disrupting the show.
Theatrical productions were also staged in Center Point. A group of gypsies, Hila Morgan and
her group of players, would set up tents in the area now known as Wakema Park and entertain the
townspeople for several days at a time.
Cozy Theatre, built in 1915. Movies were shown here until
sometime in the early 1930s when it became the site of suc-
cessive taverns. The building is located at 817 Main Street.

24
Radio stimulated the imagination of listeners before television became available. Children
listened to the exploits of Jack Armstrong-All American Boy, the Lone Ranger, Little Orphan Annie,
Batman and Superman. Families were glued to the radio for the Lux Radio Theater, Inner Sanctum and
The Shadow.
Band activities were also a source of entertainment. In the summer, Saturday night band concerts
were popular. Originally, Center Point had a town band. Later, the school band performed the concerts,
sometimes with town people participating. Howard Holman built a bandstand that could be pulled into
the intersection on Main Street. Music contests and band festivals were held annually.
World War II
The United States entered the Second World War in 1941. The effects of the war effort were
quickly felt in every part of the country. Gasoline was rationed immediately. Salesmen were given a
B card, which entitled them to a few more gallons than the average citizen. The two doctors in town
were given the unlimited C card since they made house calls.
Erma Busenbark recalls going to the Old Town Hall to get ration books that were distributed by
County officials. The rationing books were used to limit purchases of goods based upon the number of
people in the household.
The Grubbs’ family remembers that the limit of one new pair of shoes per year was hard on
everyone, especially fast-growing children. New tires and new cars were simply not available. The
family’s 1936 Ford had to last for the duration of the war. Limitations associated with “re-tread” tires
were learned the hard way. The speed limit on highways was reduced to 35 mph to conserve gas and
tires.
Don Carver remembers the “black-outs” when all lights in town were shut off and shades were
pulled on the windows to prepare for air raids. Harry Brookman was the air raid warden; he walked
through town looking for any glimpse of light. Don remembers sitting in the dark with his mother.
Harry had spotted a light under one of their window shades and tapped on the door. The light was from
the family’s radio dial.
Don also remembers the scrap drives. Town children would throw scrap metal left by residents
onto trucks. Don laments the loss of material, which would be considered antiques today, that people
donated to the war effort.
The local newspaper carried many articles that gave readers a sense of what those years were
like for the men who served and for their families that stayed behind. One article spoke of the relief and
joy that Mr. & Mrs. W.E. Durow felt when they received a message from their son, Raymond, which
read “safe and well.” His parents had been filled with apprehension after a news story describing the
sinking of the U.S.S. Helena, the ship to which Raymond was assigned, was released.
Another article published in 1945 announced that Donald J. Comried, Technician 4.C. of the
87
th
Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop, had been awarded the Bronze Star Medal for participation in
campaigns in the Battle of Germany. Comried, who was a radio operator, was the son of Mr. And Mrs.
August Comried of Center Point.
The newspapers also carried articles that are indicative of the support the military received from
local residents. A 1943 article discussed the dedication ceremonies for the Service Men and Women’s
Honor Roll Board. War bonds totaling more than $3,000 were sold at the conclusion of the program. A
1944 article discussed a project completed by the seventh and eighth grade students. Allied flags ware
made from construction paper and posted on the walls and bulletin boards. Another 1944 article boasted
that Mrs. Guy Whitson had sold a cake she made for $67. The proceeds were donated to the Red Cross.

25
The sale bill to the left shows the
humor of Linden Hoglan as he de-
cided to leave farming to defend our
country during World War II.
After joing the Navy, Linden
wrote an entertaining letter to the
people of Center Point from boot
camp. The letter, dated February 13,
1944, was published in the local pa-
per titled, Experiences of a Farmer
Anent Being Turned into a Navy
“Boot”. The letter contains an
amusing look at his adventures in
boot camp. He even writes about
handing out copies of his sale bill to
those on the train.
Shortly after the article was pub-
lished the following article appeared
in the paper.
Dies in Service
At Camp Farragut
LINDEN D. HOGLAN
The body of Linden Dale
Hoglan, 34, is being returned to
Center Point for services and
burial at a time to be announced
later. He died Saturday of pneu-
monia in the naval hospital at
Farragut, Idaho. Hoglan,
married and the father of two
children, had farmed near
Center Point before he entered
the service Jan. 24. A borther,
Capt. Herbert Hoglan, is
stationed at Camp Croft, S. C.
PUBLIC SALE
As I am sick and tired of farming and quarreling with my neighbors, I have
joined the navy and am going to end it all by offering the following to the
highest bidder at my place, known as Poverty Point, located 2 miles south and
½ mile east of Center Point—
SATURDAY, JANUARY 22, 1944
Rain or shine but starting definitely at 1 p.m. As will be seen, everything I
offer displeases me in at least one respect so naturally I will be glad to get rid
of it. THREE MILK COWS – Two large sized Brown Swiss and heresy mixed.
5 and 6 yrs. Old, all recently fresh and giving a good flow of milk. I have
become quite weary of lugging in the heavy pails of milk that they produce; 1
Jersey heifer fresh some time ago. This one has a hole in one teat. Besides
this, these cows insist on being milked twice daily, another drawback.
1 TEAM OF SMOOTH MOUTH WORK HORSES—These horses are so
steady and reliable and so seldom want to rest that it takes a good man to keep
up with them. This is no team for a lazy man. Well matched; 1 black gelding,
1 gray mare, Hope they go to a good home.
1937 Studebaker ½ ton pick-up truck complete with stock rack. I had this
truck entirely reconditioned about 6 mos. Ago and it is in very fine shape. It
has just one bad feature, it rides so easily that it induces drowsiness at the
wheel.
Pump-Jack with 1/2 –horsepower electric motor. This combination is inclined
to make a man too soft and lazy.
One Rubber-Tired Trailer Wagon with box and scoop board. The tires on this
trailer are so good and the box so poor that it makes a rather funny looking
outfit.
100 BU. CORN more or less (probably less). This corn didn’t yield quite like
I expected and furthermore, the cobs are so small that they are of little value as
fuel.
About 100 bales of Clover Hay. This hay is entirely too fine as the stock eat it
all up leaving none for bedding. Besides this the bales are oversize, making it
uncomfortable to handle.
About 90 White Rock Pullets. These chickens are so nice and large that you
would naturally expect them to lay more than an egg each day but the sad fact
is that they don’t and as eggs aren’t quite so high as they were I will be glad to
let them go.
Brooder House. After painting this building last summer, the color changed in
the drying process to a very ghastly green.
A double set of work harness in good repair but entirely too heavy for any
good use.
Oil Brooder—500 size, requires too much attention.
218 Steel Posts. Most of these lack anchor plates and are not quite suited to
the light soil that I have here.
1 New Two-Row Dusting Machine that throws such a fog that it irritates my
hay fever symptoms.
Cold Water Separator—too small. Other articles not worth mentioning.
I will offer privately a custom built No. 4 grade, ejector, 12-ga. double barrel
Ithaca shotgun with a liberal supply of shells and leather case. This gun sold
new before the war for $150 and is in nearly perfect condition, but am sorry to
admit that it has one bad fault. It handles so smoothly that it kills almost
automatically, taking most of the sport out of hunting with it.
No free lunch not anything of the kind. Terms Cash as I must report for duty
Jan. 24.
Linden Hoglan, Owner
Glenn Hoglan, Auctioneer
John Ashlock, Clerk, Center Point

26
Residents also felt the effect of the war in their daily lives. For example, all building construction
in the town was halted during the war. The war also created a shortage of workers. Some farmers were
called to serve, dependent upon the size of their farms and whether other family members were available
to continue the operation. In 1944, Heefner & Potter announced that their delivery schedules would be
revised due to the shortage of help.
Families with members serving in the War draped banners in their windows. The number of
stars displayed on the banner depicted the number of family members serving in the War. If the star was
gold, it meant someone had lost his or her life in the war. The town rejoiced, along with the rest of the
world, when the war had finally ended.
Celebrations
Fourth of July Celebrations in Center Point became an annual town event. There were fireworks,
a carnival, a show on the bandstand and a big parade. Parade entries included dogs dressed in costume,
decorated bikes and ponies.
Memorial Day was also a big affair. In the 1930’s, a band led a parade to the creek. A salute
was fired over the water to commemorate the sailors and flowers were strewn on the water. Then the
group marched to the cemetery. There was a service that concluded with taps held on top of the hill
near the tomb of the Revolutionary Soldier. The road up the hill was referred to as the “Avenue of the
Flags” with small flags marking the graves of all veterans. Remembrance ceremonies for veterans
continue to this day.
Halloween was a
well-celebrated holiday.
Dale Matheny remembers
patrolling the city as a
volunteer fireman. The
goal was to minimize the
number of outhouses that
were overturned, the
number of catalogs that
were shredded (apparently
they hadn’t thought to use
toilet paper yet) and the
number of wagons that
were reported missing by
local farmers. Dale recalls
a story from the 1900s
when one group of
illustrious teenagers had
pulled a farmer’s wagon into town, dismantled it and then reassembled the wagon on top of a building.
Halloween wasn’t the only time youngsters played pranks. Ronnie Lyman remembers cruising
around Center Point in the early 1950s. The teens spotted Curt Cress’s cow staked at the outfield of the
ballpark. For a prank, the boys decided to take the cow uptown late at night. They decided to temporarily
house the cow in a local business. Eldon Dennison’s Insurance door was open and the boys struggled to
get the cow to go in the lobby.
1953 horse arena located west of school baseball diamond.
Foreground l-r: Community Club president, Harry Brookman; treasurer Chuck Oxley on
horse; and businessman Harold Domer who sparked the enthusiasm for the arena.

27
The next day someone “squealed” and the boys were caught. Ronnie didn’t understand why
everyone was so upset about their joke until he saw the terrible mess in the lobby of the office. Cow
“pies” were smeared on the walls and deposited down the furnace register.
The boys were ordered to pay restitution of over $160 for damages. On a more positive note,
Curt Cress said his cow seemed to give a lot more milk after being insured by Eldon Dennison that
night. Ronnie is still reminded of the “Cow Incident” on a regular basis.
Television arrived in Center Point in 1950s. The sets needed tall antennas to receive the signal
from the transmitter some 150 miles away.
Center Point’s enthusiastic horsemen, sparked by Harold Domer, tried out a new horse show
arena in July 1953. The arena, located west of the ballpark behind the school, included a fifth-of-a-mile
ring that was encircled by a three-foot white fence. Seating facilities were placed on the natural rise
outside the ring. The show ground was equipped with lights for night riding. Palomino, game and
stock horse classes were included in the July show that had been approved by the Iowa Stock Horse
Association. The Center Pont Community Club sponsored the event.
Progress
During this period, conveniences of modern living were just starting to be introduced. It’s hard
to imagine today that putting perishables in a tank of cool water or storing them in a cool dark basement
was the most frequent form of refrigeration. Others had “ice boxes”. Sammy Lewis, the iceman,
brought a big block of ice several times a week. Patrons put a card in the window to indicate how much
ice was needed. Sammy would set the ice in the box and empty the drip pan. He would usually give the
children a chunk of ice to suck. A 1943 advertisement announced that ice deliveries would be made
three times weekly and guaranteed, “ice service with a smile.”
In 1947, the Center Point Interurban service schedule included cars to Cedar Rapids at 11:11
a.m., 5:21 p.m. and 8:06 p.m. Cars from Cedar Rapids arrived in Center Point at 1:54 p.m., 6:50 p.m.
and 10:39 p.m. This schedule is markedly reduced from the 1914 schedule of trains leaving the station
hourly. The fare for a round trip from Center Point to Cedar Rapids was 39 cents.
Plans for consolidating the Center Point School District were approved in 1952. Buses were
purchased to bring the rural children to town. The buses, however, didn’t ensure that children always
made it to classes because of muddy roads that could become impassable during the spring thaw. Mary
Holman remembers one year when Merl Ward, a bus driver, loaded his passengers into a covered
wagon and pulled the children to school with his tractor.
In 1953, Tom and Eileen Neenan purchased the Canning Factory storage buildings. The Neenans
manufactured and sold Ty Wall, a welded wire that lies in masonry joints and brick walls to keep them
from cracking. The business continued for approximately five years, shipping products as far west as
Denver and as far east as Pennsylvania.
Tom and Eileen had moved to Center Point from Cedar Rapids. Tom had always lived in larger
towns. It took the family a little while to adjust to life in Center Point. He recalls that he had expected
to use the noon hour to purchase parts and work on machinery. To his surprise, that just wasn’t possible
because the whole town, including businesses, closed over the noon hour.
By the end of the first 100 years of existence, Center Point boasted 45 businesses including six
professional people: two doctors, a dentist, two veterinarians, a lawyer and a chiropractor. The businesses
included two grocery stores, an insurance company, two hotels, two cafes, a lumberyard, a nursery, a
locker, two hardware stores, five gas stations, two car dealerships, a nursery, a greenhouse, a mortuary,
a grain elevator, two body shops, two beauty shops, a barber shop, a bank, a recreation hall, a hatchery,
a garage, a nursing home, nine specialty shops, three manufacturing plants and a tavern.

28
1954 Center Point Centennial
The one-hundredth birthday of any town is truly a milestone. Center Point residents began
planning their centennial celebration in the year 1953. Eldon Dennison was named chairman; Mrs.
Irma Dennis was named secretary
and Mrs. H. W. Holman was
selected as the treasurer.
As the Centennial
Celebration dates of June 25 and
26, 1954 approached, the town
began to take on a “look” that
foretold the coming celebration.
First the town men began to grow
beards. The beards began as a sort
of a “lark” to many. Soon the
“palefaces” were so outnumbered
that they obligingly joined the
bearded warriors. The townsmen
looked suspiciously like the men
depicted on the front of a Smith
Brothers Cough Drop box. Next,
the ladies started decking
themselves out in bonnets, dresses
and other attire reminiscent of the
1854 era.
The week preceding the celebration was filled with booster caravans of Center Point citizens
who visited neighboring towns with their beards, dresses and antique belongings, drawing attention to
the upcoming festivities. The caravans were popular attractions in the neighboring towns. Square
dancing erupted in the streets and in at least two of the towns, the large crowds surrounding the caravans
made it impossible for traffic to move.
On the opening day of the celebration, folks from miles around descended on the town.
By the end of the celebration, between eight and nine thousand people had visited the town. In addition
to a busy midway and free acts, the celebration
included non-stop activities. There was a
beard contest, sport events, a wood
chopping event, and a tug-of-war contest.
The main events of the celebration were
the parade and the pageant.
The Friday parade had seventy-four
entries. “Oohs” and “ahs” from the crowd
could be heard as each float approached.
The parade was so popular, it was repeated
on Saturday to a very large crowd. The
Centennial Pageant was presented on both
nights to full houses. The pageant told the
story of one hundred years of progress of
1954 Centennial Committee
Front row, l-r: Paul Johnson, Irma Dennis, Mrs. C. V. Hoglan, Mary Holman,
Robert Bowers. Back row l-r: Dale Matheny, A. L. Hendryx, Harold Domer,
Howard Holman, Harry Brookman, Eldon Dennison
Eldon Dennison Chairman
of Centennial
Dick Holman,
responsible for centennial photos
we enjoy today

29
Center Point. The show was reputed to be “well planned, well directed, and the acting was outstanding.”
Many who saw it the first night, came back on the second night to see a repeat performance. The crowd on the
second night was so large that ticket takers finally threw up their hands in despair and latecomers were allowed
to enter for free. Unfortunately, the latecomers had a difficult time finding anywhere to sit.
The Midget Baseball Team who beat the
Bearded Giants 19-1.
Kneeling l-r: Tommy Schrunk, LeRoy
Sarchett, Ronald Sarchett, L. D. Benion,
David Schrunk, Tommy Busenbark Stand-
ing l-r: Glen Seltrecht, Neal Haars, Kenneth
Jones, Burton Mollenhauer, Delmar
Mullenhauer, Kenneth Squires, Melvin
Stanard, Gary Whitmore.
To observe its centennial, Center Point held
a three-inning baseball game at the Cedar
Rapids ball park.
The “Bearded Giants” played the “Midg-
ets” town baseball team. Sitting l-r: Ray
Walser, Ivan Newland, Cliff Williams,
Lloyd Jones, Wm. Bull. Standing l-r:
Harry Brookman, Carl Martin, Fred
Soukup, Jim McArthur, Richard Haars,
Dale Heins.

30
Centennial Beard Winners. Front row l-r: Dave Newman-best groomed; Carl Martin-fullest; Harry
Brookman-curliest; Jim Cook-longest beard/hair combination; Gunther Christiansen-most attractive; John
Napholz-longest. Back row l-r: Sam Cress-most colorful; Louis Hand-ugliest; Marietta Van Slyck & Ary
Oja-judges; Wm. Bull-softest.
1954 Crowd watching centennial free acts on Main Street in front of McNiel’s Grocery.
Seated, l-r: Mrs. Jessie Wright, Mrs. Crete Servison, Mrs. B. W. McGinnis, Mrs. Harry Heins,
Davidine McGinnis and Mrs. Kenneth McNiel. In doorway, Kenneth McNiel and in front of
him are Mrs. Helen Noska and Mrs. Floyd Durow. Other people are unidentified.

31
Funeral Home’s parade entry. R.
D. Conley and Chuck Oxley’s
father pulling old hearse.
Pageant Drama 1954. First pioneers to Cen-
ter Point depicted by Mr. & Mrs. Gaylord
Sacora.
Champion Tug-O-War team.
Front to back: Jack Lorence, Willard Ciha, Richard Haars.
Dressed in their centennial best is Phillip and
Bernice Hand and daughters l-r: Betty, Rosemary
and Phyllis.

32
Center Pointers, dressed in their celebration attire, went to Bishops in Cedar Rapids for supper
to promote the celebration. Seated closest to camera on left are: Mary Holman, Louis Hand
and Vickie Kennedy. Closest to camera on right are: Wanda Rae Domer, Harold Domer, Mary
Oxley, and Chuck Oxley.

33
A Bedroom Community (1955-2004)
By 1955, Center Point had completed the transformation to a “bedroom community”. The highway
system, the shift from an agrarian economy, and better paying jobs prompted many residents to seek work in
Cedar Rapids. Residents also took advantage of shopping and recreational activities in the city. Many local
businesses had difficulty competing and were forced to close. Membership in local organizations dwindled.
Residents, however, remained committed to their churches and the school.
Changing Times
On February 20, 1956, the WCF&N, Car No. 100, made its last trip between Cedar Rapids and
Waterloo. Car No. 100 was the last of a
fleet of impressive trains. All of the other
cars owned by the WCF&N were
destroyed in a fire, which swept through
their roundhouse on October 31, 1954.
The number of people riding the train had
steadily declined over the railroad’s
history. When the train began operation
in 1914, there were twelve trains daily
arriving at the Center Point depot. The
number had decreased to eight trains by
1917 and three trains in 1936. In June of
1952, the train received permission from
the State Commerce Commission to run
one train daily plus another train on
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. By
August of 1955, the Commission
authorized operating only the weekend
runs. The Illinois Central Gulf bought the line in the 1950s and started to use diesel trains. In 1984 this railbed
was turned into the Cedar Valley Nature Trail used by hikers and bicyclists.
In July of 1957, the Center Point council passed a controversial anti-loitering ordinance. The law
prohibited loitering on streets or in cars around businesses that had closed. People violating the law were
subject to imprisonment not exceeding 30 days or to a fine not exceeding $100.” Most businesses were open
until 11 p.m. on Wednesday and Saturday nights; the tavern closed at midnight on Saturday nights.
Apparently this ordinance was passed to limit the noise caused by crowds of young people congregating
on Main Street and by cars and motorcycles roaring up and down the streets at night. The law was not well
received by some residents. Howard A. Dufoe, publisher of “Dufoe Hardware News” stated, “The ordinance
had a good idea trying to start the thing, but they got a little too tough. I don’t think they should be stopping
adults and farmers.”
Over the next thirty days there were some arrests for loitering and disturbing the peace. Many tickets
were issued for reckless driving and other traffic offenses. Approximately 100 angry residents attended the
council meeting. The council quickly adjourned, but the crowd followed the mayor to the door hurling complaints.
That evening, approximately 100 people congregated on Main Street to test the anti-loitering ordinance. The
deputy reported there was no trouble and the crowd broke up at 1 a.m.
On February 20, 1956 the interurban made its final run from Waterloo to
Cedar Rapids and back. This photo of car #100 was taken just prior to the
trip. l-r: Tom Flaherty, George Patty, and superintendent, Elmer Bitterly.

34
At a special council meeting in mid
August, the city council repealed the anti-
loitering ordinance. The council said the
reason for the repeal was that the
ordinance has caused some disturbances
and stirred up a storm.
In the late fifties and early sixties,
the town began to focus on improving the
town’s services. Sewers were dug,
eliminating the need for septic tanks. The
creek running through town was cleaned-
up. The town also invested in paving the
dusty gravel roads on Main and
Washington Streets in the fall of 1963.
The Center Point Public Library was also
established. Tom Neenan, the acting
mayor when the library was opened,
still has his original library card that is
numbered “1.”
The Rock Island Railroad continued to travel through Center Point in the 1960s, but the usage had
dropped to one trip per day. The train would frequently stop by Dale Matheny’s 150 Gulf Stop so the crew
could eat breakfast before continuing their run.
Tornado
On April 23, 1961, a tornado swept through Center Point. Dale Matheny vividly recalls that
day. He and his wife were serving lunch to customers at the 150 Gulf Stop. The Mathenys, like other
town residents, were aware that a storm was raging, but they had no warning the storm included a
tornado.
As the wind worsened, customers were herded into the kitchen area of the restaurant for protection
against breaking glass. It started
to hail and before long the hail
covered the ground like snow.
Dale says he finally began to
realize the severity of the storm
when his “Gulf Stop” sign blew
apart. He comments that the sign
was supposed to withstand 100
mile an hour winds.
He remembers that it
suddenly became very quiet.
He and a customer went outside
to survey the damage. The wind
started to rage and switched
direction. Dale and the customer
frantically tried to get back in the
Garage and breezeway destroyed by tornado at Glen “Chip” and Doris Dufoe home.
Protesting the ‘Anti-Loitering’ Ordinance 1957.
Many people gathered on Main Street after stores were closed on Wednes-
day night to see if anything would happen to them--something the ordi-
nance forbade.

35
restaurant. There were several anxious moments as the men had to scrape the hail away from the door before
it would open.
The town lost electricity and telephones since the wires for these services were strung overhead
on poles. After the storm subsided, the 150 Gulf Stop became a communication center. Dale remembers
members from the Citizen Band Club arriving in four or five vehicles, which they parked on the south
side of his building. Since telephone lines were down, club members let residents contact family members
using their radios. The City Council asked permission to use the restaurant as
a headquarters. Another resident arrived with a two-burner stove and propane
tank for making coffee. She also brought plenty of peanut butter and bread for
sandwiches. Civil Defense staff arrived next with a generator in tow. The
generator was hooked up to the pump so people could purchase gasoline.
Trees were downed, windows were broken, buds were stripped from
the trees and roofs were damaged. The Phillips 66 station on Franklin Street
sustained heavy damage.
Dale remembers the wonderful support victims of the storm
received from other residents, local farmers and people from surrounding
towns after the storm. The sound of chainsaws could be heard throughout
town. Electricity was not restored to the town until 3:00 PM on Monday.
Mary Holman remembers that her roof sustained small damage.
She had to wait to have it repaired until other homes with more serious
damage were taken care of first. She wouldn’t have minded waiting,
except by the time it was her turn, the only roof tile color that was available
“was the one no one else wanted-dull brown.”
In the News
The town had barely recovered from the effects of the tornado, when Peoples Bank and Trust Co. of
Center Point was robbed on May 15, 1961. The
burglars gained entry through a basement door.
About thirty-five safety deposit boxes were opened
after burglars cut their way into the vault with a stolen
torch. They failed to open the main vault, which
held the bank’s cash. The thieves were never
apprehended.
A landmark historical building, previously
known as the Commercial Hotel, was tragically lost
to fire on July 15, 1968. Lois Haddy owned the
building, located on the northwest corner of Main
and Washington streets. The two-story frame
building was approximately 114 years old at the time
of the fire. It housed Haddy’s Haven, a tavern, and
meeting rooms for the Jaycees and Lions clubs. The
cause of the fire may have been a fan, which had shorted out. Firemen from Center Point, Urbana, Walker and
Alburnett kept the blaze from spreading to other buildings. The effort required the use of a lot of water and
residents were warned to restrict their use of water. Don Carver credits Ted Augustine with saving the nearby
buildings on the north, by using his “wall of water” invention.
Picture painted on side of old Gambles building commemorat-
ing USA’s bi-centennial 1976.
Center Point Community Historical
Society Museum, 1976 to 1998.

36
In 1975, a Bi-Centennial Committee was formed. Mary Holman
remembers that the event involved “more townspeople in more activities
over a longer period of time than any other happening in my memory.”
Soon the town was decked out in patriotic colors and images in
preparation of the 200
th
anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of
Independence. Dan Mackerman, an art student from Center Point, painted
a huge map of early Center Point on the side of the pool hall. Roy Ferguson
did a large painting of Main Street, as it would have looked in the past.
Store windows were filled with historical photographs of streets and buildings.
The Town Council ordered two Bi-Centennial highway signs and
posted them on the highway at the north and south entrances to Center
Point. The water hydrants and water tower were decorated in patriotic
colors. A new monument was erected on the grave of John Osborn, a
Revolutionary soldier buried on the hill in the Center Point cemetery. The
site was surround by a fence.
A quilt show was held in Wakema Park and a big parade marched
through town. The event also spawned the formation of the Center Point Community Historical Society in
1976.
Cedar Valley Nature Trail
In 1978, the land where the
Interurban Railroad had run was
purchased from the WCF & N
Railroad to be used for the Cedar
Valley Nature Trail. The Trail was
to follow the railroad bed from
Cedar Rapids to Waterloo. Plans
included the renovation of two
abandoned depots, one at
Gilbertville and the other at Center
Point.
The conversion of the
railroad bed started in the summer
of 1980. The effort was
spearheaded by the Iowa Rails to
Trails, Inc., a statewide non-profit
organization, dedicated to the
preservation of abandoned rail
beds as public access areas. Hundreds of volunteers contributed their time to make the trail a reality. As the
work progressed, the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation and the Old Interurban Trail Inc. joined the efforts by
helping with fund raising. Ownership of the land was later transferred to the Linn County Conservation Board,
which became very involved in the development of the trail.
Not everyone supported the trail. Some adjacent landowners wanted the return of the rail right of way
for their farms. They believed the trails were not needed and would only be used by a few people. They also
raised concerns about potential vandalism, theft and crimes, which could occur along the trails. They battled
the trail supporters in public meetings, in newspaper letters to the editor, in the courts and sometimes on the
John Osburn, Revolutionary War
soldier buried in CP cemetery.
Interurban railbed turned into the Cedar Valley Nature Trail. The restored depot
houses Historical Society Museum.

37
trail. One farmer bulldozed a segment of the trail and several bridges were burned. Trail workers encountered
flattened tires on their vehicles.
Despite this resistance, the trail was dedicated on October 13,1984. Governor Terry Branstad
took part in the dedication ceremony. The Trail was designated a National Recreation Trail and is now
part of the Discovery Trail Across America.
Progress
Center Point residents trooped to the polls in 1981 to decide on a cable television ordinance. Only
27% of the registered voters went to the polls, but the ordinance passed with overwhelming approval.
Traveling to Cedar Rapids became much easier with the opening of Interstate 380 in 1985. Center
Point’s mayor, Eileen Neenan, took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Boyson Road exit in Cedar
Rapids.
The Center Point School
underwent some major changes under the
leadership of Dick Whitehead, who served
as principal and later as Superintendent
of the School. He steered the school and
the city through the gym bond issue, the
merger with Urbana and the elementary
building bond issue. During his tenure,
the number of school employees had
grown to over 100.
In 1991, natural gas became
available in Center Point, replacing heat
systems that were dependent on wood,
propane and oil. Voters had previously
rejected natural gas in the early 1970s.
Center Point entered a period of
expansion under the leadership of Mayor
Joe Beatty in 1993. He formed the South Side Committee to discuss and plan a residential development on
the land between the school and the interstate. Joe was interested in giving Center Point an opportunity to
expand the city. He also wanted to direct where expansion should occur. Joe approached the group who
owned the targeted land to determine if they wanted to sell the property. When the group agreed to sell, Joe
discussed the project with a developer, Don Dufoe. Don convinced two other investors to join him in the
venture, Jon Sholes and Tom Burg.
Joe introduced several ideas that have since been copied by surrounding towns. First, the city required
that the developer be responsible for installing the streets, the curbs and sidewalks. They required that the
streets and curbs had to be installed before the city would issue building permits. The city also adopted the
concept of “impact fees.” A $750 fee for water and a $750 fee for sewer were assessed for each new home
that was built. This money would be used to expand the city’s infrastructure. In exchange, the city paved Ford
Lane. They also provided water and sewer lines to the development.
The project took off faster than anyone had anticipated. Terrace Hills includes 137 lots; approximately
eight still need to be developed. The popularity of the project also prompted other developments, including
Prairie Point and Junge’s Addition.
The High School Service Learning Class along with the Legion, Lions, and Jaycees constructed the 40
x 60 Veterans Memorial Pavilion on Main Street in 2002. The lot where the pavilion is located is owned by the
Ft. McGonigle play structure built at Wakema Park in 1975. Removed in
1992 due to poor condition from use of untreated wood in construction.

38
city. Several gas stations and a cement factory were previously located on the site. The city bought the lot for
back taxes and then gave the students permission to erect the pavilion. Members of the Lions, Jaycees, and
the students were involved in the actual construction. Tables were purchased by the LJL Hall. For $30 contributing
business’ names were etched on top of the tables.
Social Gatherings
The C.P.H.S. All Sports Boosters hosted a summer celebration that focused on barbeque pork starting
in the 1960s. The Jaycees took over the event in the 1980s and the name was changed to “Pork Days.”
Today’s celebration usually takes place late in June or early in July. Activities include a carnival, talent show, a
parade, and dances. Barbeque pork continues to be the highlight of the event.
The concept of an “All School Reunion” became a reality in 1996 under the leadership of Velma
Roseberry and Darlene Bohling. More than five hundred alumni returned to Center Point to reminisce and
renew old acquaintances. Participants enjoyed an evening banquet and program that included a performance
of old school songs and “memory sharing.”
The 2000 “All School Reunion” attracted 410 former students from twenty-three states. Activities
included a morning parade; alumni from various graduating classes or from individual families would ride on
floats. In the afternoon, a luncheon banquet
was held. Individual classes would plan
separate activities before and after the
combined events.
Planning for the sesquicentennial
celebration began in the fall of 2003. Dr.
Philip Andersen and Teresa Scheeler, acting
as co-chairs, organized a group of residents.
The Center Point Community Historical
Society agreed to be the “lead” agency for
the event. Matt Wade agreed to serve as
Treasurer. He also agreed to approach local
businesses for donations. Melissa Snapp
agreed to handle advertising. Teresa Scheeler spearheaded most of the fund raising activities. The planning
group was comprised of members from several groups including the Historical Society, Jaycees, Lions, the all
school reunion committee, the PTA and 4-H Club. Various business representatives were also present at the
meetings.
The group decided to celebrate the 150
th
birthday of Center Point on July 8
th
through the 11
th
. The
celebration would be combined with the 2004 “All School Reunion” and the Jaycees’ Pork Days. Special
events to commemorate Center Point’s 150
th
birthday were planned. The Historical Society plans to open the
Strait Cabin, the Depot Museum, and the School Museum. The pageant, which had been staged for the
centennial celebration, was resurrected; Sandy Merritt, DeEtta Andersen and Nancy Krapl agreed to organize
the event. Philip Andersen and Steve Johnson planned an antique car parade for Saturday. Melea Wilson and
Beth Costigan organized children’s games, including a spelling bee and a poster contest. Adult activities including
a beard contest (sponsored by Gary Heins), a historical walking tour (prepared by Teresa Scheeler) and
musical entertainment were planned. The celebration’s grand finale will be a fireworks display that was organized
by Jon and Sue Novak.
.
Veterans Memorial Pavilion built on Main Street in 2002

39
Souvenirs for the Sesqucentennial Celebration included a 7”engraved crock and t-shirt printed with the sesquicentennial
logo. Sale of these items provided funds for the events.
Logo created by Katie Hansen for the Sesquicentennial Celebration.
Making final edits on the book are Deb Cress,
Teresa Scheeler, and Philip Andersen.

40
The Terrace Hill housing addition from I-380 interchange in 1994 (above) and as it appears in 2004 (below)
with approximately 140 homes.

41
Businesses
Past Businesses
150 Gulf Truck Stop. Keith Kennedy owned land on the east side of the highway, on the south edge
of town. In 1958 Dale Matheny and Keith Kennedy decided to build a truck stop and restaurant. Gulf Oil
Company financed the building by assessing
1¼ cent per gallon to repay the $60,000 loan.
Dale cemented the land rental agreement with
Keith on a handshake. The business was
called 150 Gulf Stop because of its location
on Highway 150.
Dale and his wife, Hazel, ran the
twenty-four hour restaurant for the next
twenty-three years. The restaurant catered
to hungry truckers and travelers. It was also a
popular hangout for students after ball games.
The most popular menu item was tenderloins,
which were hand breaded and fried. Pies were
also a popular menu item. In the late 1960s,
seventeen pies were sold daily. Customers would sometimes call ahead to reserve slices of their favorite pie.
At that time, pie was 15¢ and coffee was 10¢.
A sign in the restaurant announced, “Your coffee is Free! If you find us without a customer.”
Those customers who got their coffee free were asked
to sign the guest book. The business was also an
employer to many school students and residents of
Center Point who waited tables and made malts over
the years.
The “FOOD” and “FUEL” signs erected high
in the air in the parking lot, beckoned people to stop.
Sometimes, up to ten semi-trucks were parked on the
lot at a time. Dale said on busy weekends, the 4,000-
gallon gas storage tank would not hold enough gas to
last through the weekend. A tanker would be left on
the lot so Dale could fill the storage tank during the
weekend. Gasoline cost approximately 32¢ a gallon
when they opened for business. Gas wars with the Cut-
Aerial view of 150 Golf Truck Stop, circa 1958.
Smiling service was provided by (l-r): Sue King, Darlene
Mollenhauer, Cindy Bauserman, Sue Lown, and Cheryl Dick
in 1974.

42
Rate Station south of town could drive the price down to 21¢ a gallon.
Dale and Hazel sold the business to Mike Techau in 1981. In 1994 Dave and Cindy Krumm opened
the Pizza Place restaurant on the site. The 1958 bar and counter is still in use today. Just think of all the good
coffee and conversation since 1958!
Banks. Center Point’s banks had numerous owners over the history of the town. J. A. and George
Kuck of New York organized the Linn County Bank in December, 1872. Their business included general
banking and brokerage services. The Linn County Savings Bank was organized in April 1906 with capital
stock of $20,000. In 1912 the Farmers Savings Bank was organized with capital stock of $15,000.
Pressures created by the Depression,
prompted Farmers Savings Bank to merge with the
Linn County Savings Bank. The merger was not
sufficient to stabilize the bank. The bank closed its
door in December 1930. Erma Busenbark remembers
the bank’s closure vividly. Her father, Ike Street,
deposited his Saturday grocery store receipts on
Monday following Christmas Day, which was
celebrated on Sunday. When he tried to retrieve his
money from the bank on Tuesday, to cover the payment
on a farm he was purchasing, he discovered that the
bank had failed. Luckily, Ike must have suspected that
the bank was on shaky ground. He was able to scrape together the money he needed for the farm payment
from several hiding places in the store and at his home.
In April 1931 the Center Point-Walker Bank and Trust Company opened. It operated until late in
1937 when it reorganized and was known as the North Linn Savings Bank. The North Linn Savings Bank
closed in 1946.
People’s Bank and Trust Company of Cedar Rapids replaced the North Linn Savings Bank with a
branch bank that opened in Center Point. The bank was forced to close in 1964 when a charter was granted
for a new bank. The closure was necessary because of a law, which permitted only one bank charter per
town.
Benion Nursing Home. In 1949, Wesley and Della Benion opened a nursing home, located at 310
State Street. The building, built in the1880s, had been used as a furniture store, a creamery in the 1920s and
a chicken hatchery prior to that. Wesley and Della’s son and wife, Laurence and Ivadell, managed the business
Interior of Linn County Savings Bank 1890. Standing in
doorway is Pres. J. R.Gitchell, teller is Fred Gitchell.
Linn County Bank built in 1906, located at 810 Main St.
Farmers Savings Bank built in 1912 on the NW corner of
Iowa and State Streets.

43
from 1961 through 1974. Then Laurence and
Ivadell’s son, L. D. Benion, began operating the
home. At this time the nursing home had 26 on
its payroll and operated at its licensed capacity
of 38 patients. One of the patients then was Mrs.
Wesley Benion. The nursing home closed in
1976.
In the 1980s, the Dan Gallo family
resided in the building and provided residential
care to elderly residents. Today, in 2004, the
building is now owned by Steve Davis and is used
as a Laundromat and apartments..
Brick and Tile Factory. Griff Smith
and Charles Johnson started a brick and tile
factory in the 1880’s. The factory operated on the north edge of
Center Point in the area of the present Center Point Cemetery addition and Fross Park.
Clay for making the bricks was taken from two different spots on the banks of the river. The clay was
hauled in a two-wheeled wagon called a dump cart. Water was sprinkled on the clay as the pit was filled. The
next day, horses were used to turn a big sweep that mixed the clay. The clay was poured into wooden molds.
The molds were kept in water when not in use, so sand would adhere to the sides and keep the clay from
sticking. When the molds were filled, they were put on carts and taken to the drying yard.
The final step involved firing the bricks in a kiln. The bricks were pushed to the center of the kiln with
long-handled tools shaped like a hoe. The fire was kept burning day and night for about ten days. Then the
kiln was tightly closed and the bricks were left for several days to cool.
Benion Nursing Home in 1954 before the new addition.
Chas. Johnson brick and tile factory in 1910. (L to R) Mr. Johnson, Paul Johnson, Orval Johnson and Clair Johnson.

44
The tile mill was a much larger mill and had two horses hitched at each end of the sweep. The clay pit
was filled and then the clay was forced through a form on to a revolving table where it was cut into lengths. The
tile was then taken into large sheds with shelves where they were stood on end to dry. Although this industry
showed a great deal of promise, it closed about 1910.
--From a letter by Pearl Johnson
The Center Point Canning Company. One of the most famous industries in town was the Center
Point Canning Company. The company was started in 1906 by a group of businessmen and farmers. During
the summer and fall of that first year, 5,666 cases of corn and 77 cases of tomatoes were packed. Tomatoes
were canned for three years.
The name Brookman and the Center Point Canning Company became synonymous through the years.
R.W. Brookman was elected Secretary in 1907 and he retained that position until he retired in 1945. G. F.
Brookman was hired as superintendent in 1919, a position he held until 1945. The Brookman Brothers,
Frank, Bert and John, purchased all the stock in the years 1921 and 1922 and organized the Center Point
Canning Corportation. Frank Brookman was the company’s first timekeeper at the start of the business;
Harry Brookman was the last owner of the business.
The business was located on the northwest corner of First and Central streets. The industry touched
the lives of many Center Point residents. The business prospered and products bearing the name of Center
Point on the label were shipped throughout the United States.
The company operated in a three-story frame building and a small husking shed. The corn was husked
by hand and workers were paid three cents per bushel. Farmers who had brought corn to the plant would join
in the husking while waiting their turn to unload.
Work was seasonal, starting in the summer. High school boys would build boxes for shipping and
unload boxcar loads of cans. Two boys would contract to unload coal for the furnaces. They would unload a
whole railroad car in one night for seventy-five dollars per car. Canning started in August and would run from
five to six weeks, six days a week. Shifts started at seven o’clock and continued until the corn delivered for
that day was done. Working until one o’clock in the morning was sometimes necessary. A steam whistle was
blown one hour before the start of work. Two blows meant there was only a half hour before work started.
Huskers would remove the husks and send the corn upstairs to the cutting machines. The corn was run
through sieves and mixed with syrup, comprised of salt, sugar and water, in large vats. The corn was then
measured into cans. The filled cans passed on an assembly line and were capped and soldered. Sealed cans
were delivered to the cooks who placed them into big iron steam cookers. The cans were processed with
steam for about 75 minutes. After processing, the cans were transferred to the cooling room, where they were
examined and then packed for shipping.
Center Point Canning Company built in 1906. Canning factory after a third floor was added in 1911.

45
Many residents of the town worked at the canning company at sometime during their lives. Sally Hill
remembers working one summer making boxes. She described the job as “a lonely job, but a job.” Another
year, she tried working at the husking shed. She remembers trying to cut a bad spot out of an ear of corn when
a friend, working beside her on the assembly line, reached for a new ear of corn. Sally relates that she almost
cut her friend’s finger off. Sally decided to “retire” early that year.
At the peak of its production in 1923, 112 people were employed. As production increased, the
factory warehouse was no longer large enough for storage. A one-story warehouse was erected in 1923 and
a two-story warehouse was added in 1924. The largest output from the factory occurred in 1935 when
85,000 cases were processed. Farmers were paid fourteen dollars per ton of sweet corn; their output averaged
6 tons per acre.
One of the canning labels used on sweet corn.
Husking sweet corn by hand in 1911. They were given 3-cent tokens for each bushel husked. Townspeople as well
as farmers and their wives would shuck.

46
Labels were originally affixed by hand. Later, a hand-cranked machine was used. By the end of
production, an electric labeler and boxer were added so that 250 cases could be labeled per hour.
The company was closed in 1948 due to increased competition from frozen food lines and the reluctance
of farmers to plant the necessary amount of sweet corn to keep the plant in operation. The canning factory was
torn down for scrap. The storage buildings were sold to Tom Neenan in 1953.
Center Point Hatchery and Produce. Laurence and Ivadell Benion owned the hatchery from 1945
to 1961. The business was located at 822
Main Street in the same building currently
occupied by Craigs Appliance. About
75,000 eggs were hatched each year. Two
trucks were needed to pick-up eggs and
poultry and deliver eggs. They bought
1200 cases of eggs per month with thirty
dozen eggs included in a case. Two
women would candle and grade the eggs;
they could grade about four cases per hour.
The hatchery also sold baby chicks. At
Easter, the chicks were dyed many colors
and sold for presents.
Excerpted from “History
of Center Point” written by the Sixth
Grade Class in 1953
Chevrolet Dealership. The first
Chevrolet dealers in the city of Center
Point were the Wormer brothers, Jesse
and John. The business operated in the
1910s to the 1950s. The Wormer
Chevrolet Garage was located at 915
Main Street. In 1920 their business was
doing so well, they doubled their size by
adding on a 60x60 building. When the
brothers decided to retire, they leased the
building to Delbert (Deb) Elliott. He was
a dealer for a short time.
In 1952, Frank Suchomel
purchased the building and became the
Chevrolet dealer. In 1968, Frank decided
he needed a break and leased the building
to Dewey Widdell. Widdell was in business for two years and then once again the dealership was returned to
Frank.
Frank and his wife, Edith, constructed a new building at 200 Franklin, due to the age of the Main
Street building. (Today this building is known as City Hall.) In the past, the small auto dealership was allotted
four vehicles per month. Suchomel’s allotment increased considerably after the business moved into the new
building. Edith was employed in the office and was assigned to many tasks including greeting customers,
Ivadell Benion, daughter Andrae (Andi), and Jack Kidd behind counter
at hatchery.
Center Point Hatchery and Produce in 1954.

47
bookkeeping and answering the
phone. Customers mentioned
that they really enjoyed doing
business with a dealer from a
small town. Frank and Edith
enjoyed meeting people from
many counties.
Condon Grocery Store.
Frank “Dude” Condon ran a
grocery store on the east side
of Main Street at 818 Main
Street (today in 2004 this is an
empty lot). Frank was born in
1869 and married Ethel Hoglan in 1888. He worked in a printing shop for a few years and by 1899 he was
ready to open his store. Frank and Ethel ran the store for 50 years. He never missed a day at the store.
When the store opened, eggs were 5¢ a dozen, butter 8¢/lb., and coffee 16¢/lb. Dude’s store was
small, but unique. Dude always wore a dark gray suit with a narrow tobacco stained knit tie, a hat and garters
on his sleeves. One could always find him in the store, sitting on a high stool in the back by the rear door. A
cigar was always in his mouth, (either a White Owl or a San Felice).
Ethel would go to the store in the afternoon and again at night. She would put on a housedress, curl her
hair, and go to the store every day. Ethel’s grandchildren remember her as a brave woman. She was deathly
afraid of cyclones and snakes, but that was all. She showed her mettle the time her hand got caught in the
washer ringer.
Dude opened the store six days a week around 7:00 am and came home for lunch and dinner. About
three nights a week the store would be open until 10:00 pm. Grocery sacks in the rear provided comfortable
“seats” for the customers. A cigar lighter hung over the cigar counter that was next to a rounded glass candy
case loaded with sen sen, rope licorice, orange slices, chocolates, and candy bars.
The cash register was a drawer with round indented holes for coins. Bills were kept in Dude’s wallet,
which he carried home each night. Each sale was recorded manually, providing the basis for payment of the
new Iowa Sales Tax. His ledger contained names of charge customers with amounts of money owed; only he
could decipher the writing. Cash customers typically received a sack of candy from him. Don Carver, who
delivered groceries as a youth, was similarly paid, receiving a candy bar for his work.
A stalk of bananas hung on one side of the store. Big rounds of cheese that were kept under a glass
cover and a hand-operated coffee grinder occupied the other side. Eggs were candled toward the rear of the
store. In the back room was a pail of fresh water for drinking. He also kept a stack of Life Magazines in the
store that customers could leaf through. When closing for the night, Dude would hang his bread order in the
window. Very early the next day, bread trucks would arrive and place the bread in boxes located outside on
the sidewalk.
Early in the 1930s as the depression worsened, several people tried to convince Dude to put his
money in the bank. They even staged a fake holdup one night to drive home their point. As Dude walked
home one evening, they yelled, “Stick them up.” Dude threw his moneybag into a nearby garden; later, the
money was retrieved. The next day, Dude opened an account at the bank. It wasn’t long after he opened his
account that the bank declared failure and closed.
Don Carver remembers in 1949, the store was sold to Glenn Hoglan.
--Bob Holloway, Ann Holloway Huxol
Wormer Bros. Chevrolet circa 1920s

48
Southeast corner of Main and Washington Streets
Dude Condon on right at the counter of his store. Note the cigar lighter
hanging next to him.
The Corner Grocery. Grocery
stores have occupied the southeast
corner of Main and Washington streets
for almost 150 years. The legacy
began in the year 1854, when L
Hollenbeck started a store on this
corner with living quarters on the
second floor. James M. Bartelson
owned the store from 1857 to 1879.
Frank and Ida Grubbs operated the
grocery business from 1890 to 1908
and their family also lived upstairs,
where two of their children were born.
In 1909, the business became known
as Bill Lavelle’s Grocery, then Peoples
Grocery, Harley Woodley, and then
Deke Graves Corner Grocery.
In 1946, Jack Sholes bought the
Corner Grocery. Jack had first come
to Center Point in 1935 with his
grandparents when he was a sophomore in high school. He worked after school and weekends at the same
grocery store he would later own. When he graduated from CPHS in 1937, he returned to Chicago to live
with his family and worked for Jewel Tea as an assistant manager in the grocery department. In 1941 he
married his high school sweetheart Roberta Haars. Then, after two years in the navy, he returned to Center
Point and bought the Corner Grocery, rearranging it to be more like the Chicago store. Jack would drive to
Cedar Rapids and buy his stock from Witwer Wholesalers.
In 1953, the old wooden building that had been there since 1854 was torn down and a block building
was built in its place. The new store offered self-serve freezers and refrigeration. He was the first grocer in
Linn County to install glass door freezers. Jack remodeled many times over the years, accommodating his
customers with the finest. In 1957,
Nash Finch became the supplier and
the store name was changed to Jack
& Jill.
Jon, Jack’s son, worked
along side his father in the business
ever since he was old enough. Jack
retired in 1981 and sold the store to
Jon. In 1994 Jon sold the store to
Rod and Teri Bishop and it was
renamed T & R Food Pride. Rod
relocated his business to Ford Lane
in 1999 and the building was sold to
Nelson Cabinets. This ended 125
years of grocery service to Center
Pointers on this same corner of Main
Street.
1857 - 1879 James Bartelson Grocery on same corner as Corner Grocery.

49
The Corner Grocery as it appeared on the left in the 1940s. The wooden building was built in 1854 and housed general
merchandise and groceries until it was torn down in 1953. Jack Sholes built the new block building shown on the right and
continued selling groceries. Rod Bishop last sold groceries here in 1998. The town well is still shown in both pictures as a
hand pump to the left of the buildings.
Drilling the town well in 1898.
Businesses from l-r: S.W. Miller
Billard Hall, Central Livery-
Menear Bros, Joseph Poole,
Carriage Painter. Pictured l-r:
Jack Myers (with whip), uniden-
tified man by drill, James
Bartelson, Sam Dunlap, and
Frank Grubbs. The two children
at their feet are Vera and Lloyd
Grubbs, born on second floor of
their father’s store pictured on
corner F. M. Grubbs & Co.
Same corner shown in above
pictures. Today home to
Nelson Cabinets since 1999.

50
The Creamery. A creamery was considered an essential business in midwestern farming
communities. It was therefore no surprise that John Gitchell, the town banker, decided to organize the
Center Point Creamery in 1873. The business was housed in a frame structure that was painted red. Later,
the building was remodeled and cement blocks and cement floor were added.
Most of the cream for making butter was picked up by the creamery from the townspeople and the
neighboring farms. Two shifts of men were employed; one for the morning run and one for the evening run.
Some of the farmers would bring their own cream once a week. Butter was made in 50-pound tubs and then
shipped twice a week to other Iowa towns.
One of the by-products created by the creamery was buttermilk. In those days, there must not have
been much of a market for the product. The creamery would drain the buttermilk into a cistern by the creek.
Farmers were allowed to take all that they wanted to feed their hogs.
During the years the creamery was in operation, it was run by several different people including:
Derflinger, Weeks, Pollock and Romine. In 1904, the building was heavily damaged by fire. The business
closed around 1916, but the buildings continued to be used for storage and livestock by John Wormer. The
building, located in what is now the Wakema Park parking lot, was torn down in the 1960s.
A second creamery still stands today in 2004 at its original location on Washington Street, just east of
Main Street behind Nelson Cabinets. Chas. Pollack owned the block building.
Daisy Maid. In 1957, LeRay Walser constructed the building known as Ray’s Drive-In. The
building was located at 220 Franklin Street. He sold the business in 1963 to Jim and Loretta Jones. They
operated the business for two summers as Jim’s Drive-In. In 1965, Melvin and Amy Squires bought the
business and renamed it Daisy Maid.
The Daisy Maid employed “car hops”, who were usually high school girls. The “car hops” would
come to customers’ cars and take their orders. The girls would return with orders that were placed on trays.
Creamery crew in 1913 at creamery on Water Street. l-r: Lee Dennison, Fred Kress, John Lundring, Lis Cochran, Floyd
Mitchell.

51
The trays were then hooked to the drivers’ windows. Daisy Maid sold soft-serve ice cream and other ice
cream products, various sandwiches, which included hand-breaded tenderloins and root beer, served in chilled
glass mugs.
The Daisy Maid was sold in 1972 to Don Nelson. Later, the original building was replaced by a new
building, which housed several businesses including a video shop and restaurant. The current occupant, Joensy’s
Restaurant, still serves home made tenderloins and soft-
serve ice cream.
Eldon Dennison Insurance. Eldon Dennison was
born in 1903, grandson of early Center Point pioneers.
He started in the insurance business at 18 years old by
writing insurance for his brother, Loren, and then in an
insurance business in Central City. Eldon sold his first car
insurance policy to fellow businessman L. J. Dennis.
Eldon’s first insurance office in Center Point was located
in a one story wood building on the west side of Main
Street between today’s Paul Revere’s Pizza and the two
story building on the corner.
Around the year 1941, Eldon moved his business to
820 Main Street where Neighbor Insurance is located
today. In January 1963, Stanley Zieser joined the
insurance agency as a partner. When Eldon died on March
22, 1963, Eldon’s wife, Fern, kept the business going with
Stan who eventually bought the business. Around 1990, Stan sold the business and it was managed by Terry
Brady until Neighbor Insurance bought it in 2001.
Dunbar Dry Goods Store. Dunbar & Son was a successful family-operated dry goods business for
77 years that operated in Center Point from 1880 to 1957. Stephen Dunbar, who was born in 1836, was the
senior member of the firm. Stephen married Almira Fitzgerald in 1835. Together the couple had three children:
Inez, Allen E. “Tone”, and Elvin H.
Stephen learned the dry-goods business in
Wisconsin. He disposed of his Wisconsin real estate,
reduced his stock of goods and shipped the balance of
his inventory to Center Point in 1880. Stephen’s son,
Allen, became a business partner in 1886. Together
they occupied a two-story brick building with a basement
on the southwest corner of Main and State streets.
Allen E. “Tone” married Emma Bartleson in
1887. Before his marriage, Tone traveled with a horse
and wagon selling groceries and buying eggs for his
father’s business. He regretted not having more
schooling; his father pulled him out of school to help
with the store.
An advertisement that appeared in 1892
declared, “the store sells nothing but first class goods.”
The business supposedly sold the best in footwear, dress
patterns, underwear and the famous Albert Lea flour,
Daisy Maid Drive-In, 1960s.
Eldon Dennison Insurance located at 820 Main Street
from 1941 to 1990.

52
which they bought in ton lots. They
claimed, “no firm in the city stands higher
in the commercial world and they are
recognized to be first class
businessmen.”
The store and its neighbor to the
south, Lemon and Brazelton, burned in
1905. For a few years, Tone relocated
his store to the two-story building near
the southwest corner of Main and
Washington streets; Yost Hall occupied
the second floor. Tone later rebuilt on
the site of the fire, constructing two one-
story brick buildings. After renting the
building to others for a short time, he
resumed business in the north building
on the corner.
In 1952, Allen, at age 90,
carried the distinction of being the oldest
businessman in Center Point in terms of
age and service to his customers. The
store opened each morning at 8:30 and
closed at 5:30 pm. The store closed at
noon every day for an hour and a half so
Tone could take his daily 30-minute nap.
His daughter, Maude, who had a record
of 40 years work in the store, was the
only other clerk. After her father died,
Maude operated the Dunbar Dry Goods
store until 1957.
Fairbanks Studio. James A. Fairbanks and Sarah Williams
Fairbanks settled in Center Point in 1870 where James opened a
photography studio that served the community for many decades. James
had come to Iowa as a teenager with his family in 1864. His father
Benjamin and mother Eunice Mead left their farm in Apalachin, New
York to settle in Iowa. At least three of their eight children came west
as well. Benjamin worked as a farmer and merchant in Iowa but later
returned to New York. Sarah Williams’ family was already in Center
Point at this time. James and Sarah raised three children: Blanche
Sheffield, Fannie Hassel, and Mark Fairbanks.
In addition to the portraits James produced in the studio he
built on Main Street, he also photographed other items. An
announcement in the 1885
Center Point Courier-Journal states that
Tone Dunbar at age 90 still operated
Dunbar Dry Goods daily. The store
was established in 1880 by his father,
closed in 1957.
1908 Maude and Tone Dunbar in front of their dry goods store when it was
located below Yost Hall (steps on left side).
Circa 1940, Tone and daughter, Maude, inside Dunbar Dry Goods.

53
he will comply with requests made from “those wishing any kind of views made of their residences, barns,
stock, or a group of their families in their own door yard” and that he can “make them on short notice.” As an
adjunct, he sold frames, albums, and easels to display photographs of all sizes.
Business must have been good because the studio expanded to include a Walker location. At one
time, James’ son, Mark, managed branches of the studio located in Independence and Clinton. Unfortunately,
the dream of having his son continue in the family business was cut short when Mark died suddenly in 1903 at
the age of 28. Mark’s wife, Grace Weeks Fairbanks, and daughter, Ruth Fairbanks (Grubbs Risk), returned
to Center Point to be closer to the family. The family business did survive into a future generation, however, for
upon James’ death in 1910, his grandson, Fred Sheffield, continued to run the business for a time.
This studio must have been a busy place. Grace remembers helping in the dark room when extra
hands were needed. Photography was in its infancy during this period and so experimentation was typical.
Mark believed that one-day people would be able to take pictures in natural colors. Family members were
conscripted into Mark’s obsession by frequently being asked to have their pictures taken. Grace worried that
Mark would spoil Ruth because of the constant attention she received with the camera. Mark was not
concerned since he had grown up receiving similar attention. From earlier photographs, it is obvious that Mark
had mastered the art of posing for his father at a young age.
James’ obituary stated, “Mr. Fairbanks had the distinction of having the best cameras in his studio that
there were in the state and he was an artist of exceptional ability.” This praise has been reiterated repeatedly.
The Center Point Community Historical Society is very fortunate to have so many pictorial representations of
our town’s history, thanks to the photography of the Fairbank’s family.
The descendents of the Fairbanks family are very proud of the role their family had in recording the
history of Center Point. Flipping through their family
memorabilia, the Fairbanks Studio mark appears on many
photographs.
--Katherine Rand, Patricia Grubbs Rand, Margaret
Rand Weaver
Gas Stations. With the coming of the car, there was a
need for a new kind of business in Center Point. In 1906, the
first car owned by Center Point resident, Charles Manahan,
was a Buick. The first gas station, Go Gas, came in 1910. It
was built on Main Street where the LJL Hall now stands. In
1920, Mr. Jim Romine owned the business.
James Fairbanks, photographer in 1878, with
“Fairbanks” logo showing at bottom of photo. Mr.
Fairbanks was responsible for most of photos of
Center Point’s history.
Fairbanks Studio circa 1880 located north of Heverly Hardware.

54
Ed Craig owned a Skelly station from 1939 to 1961. The station was located north of Go Gas on
Main Street, where the pavilion is located today. Mr. Craig had purchased the station from Roy Mollenhauer.
This is the same station that Ed Craig’s son, Dave, used for selling Maytag washers.
The southeast corner of Washington and Franklin streets was the site of gas stations for many years.
Some of the owners were: Jim Doughtery; Berl & Harlan Staton (1948 Staton Standard); Ervin and Marvin
Elgin (1949-1952 Elgin Bros. Standard); Chet Butterfield (1952); Connie Dunn (1957); Tom Kaut till 1962,
Smokey Bryant & Bob Morarend (1964-1979); and Alfred Stark (1979-1986).
In 1954, Dale Heins built a new DX Station Truck Stop on the southwest corner of Franklin and Iowa
streets. The south part of the building was the This ‘L Do Café. In 1958, Bill Rhinehart took over the station.
Then in 1970, Bill moved to the northwest corner of Franklin and Washington where he operated the Skelly,
Getty, and then Texaco stations. Owners previous to Bill at this site were: Harry Brookman, Merle Newman
(1949-1956), Wes Fagle (1957 to 1963), Simanek, Lyle McNeil and Bill Bolton. Bill Rhinehart retired in
1989 and his son, Kevin, took over the business and continues to operate it today.
Another gas station was located on the southeast corner of Main and State streets. The station had
many owners including: Francis Lyman and Vaupel (1940s); Carleton Townsend (1940s and 1950s); and
Dunham (1959). In 1954, the gas station was a DX station.
Homer Lanning, then Delmar Fisher, and then Bob Hudson owned a second station, located on the
northeast corner of Main and State streets. The Masonic/IOOF Hall was located on the second floor of the
building.
Finally, the Comet Station was located just south of the Troup Veterinary Clinic.
Grain Elevators. Every farming town
includes a grain elevator and Center Point was
no exception. Although there was a grain buying
company earlier, the first elevator was built in 1891
by J. F. Wormer at 905 Central Avenue. Soon
after the building was erected, John Wormer
became a partner. On March 1, 1910, L.J. Dennis
became a partner. Two years later, J.F and John
Wormer retired, leaving L.J. as the sole owner.
L.J. installed shelling and grinding machinery. He
then added a grain dryer in 1951. Eventually,
L.J.’s son, Keith, joined the business and the
business became known as L. J. Dennis and
Son.
The original elevator used by L. J. Dennis
and Son, burned on February 15, 1958; Dale
Matheny vividly recalls that night. The fire had
started at the top of the elevator. By the time the
firemen arrived on the scene, the fire was raging.
Two large propane tanks were located close to
the elevator. The firemen spent the evening trying
to keep the propane tanks cool and dousing
sparks that had fallen on the lumberyard. The
elevator was a total loss, but the firemen were
able to keep the fire from spreading.
1954 located just north of LJL Hall, Main Street.
First gas station in town 1920. Jim Romine owner, Frank Hunter in
Model T.

55
Don Carver remembers the fire for a very different reason. His family lived a few blocks from the
elevator. He claims that many of the rats, who vacated the burning building, took up residence in his family’s
out-house, their basement and under the porch.
A new building was built using concrete and steel. L. J.
remained in the grain elevator business with his son, Keith, and son-
in-law, William Bull, until his death in 1972. William and Keith’s
wife, Irma, continued to operate the elevator until their retirements
in the 1980s.
In 1911, the Farmers Elevator Company purchased a
piece of ground on First Street, near the Rock Island railroad tracks.
An article appearing in the Center Point newspaper, questioned how
the town could support two elevators. The editor’s concerns appear
legitimate, since the company dissolved in 1916. The building
was razed in the 1970s.
Grubbs Grocery and Grubbs Drug Store. Frank and
Ida L. (Gable) Grubbs operated a grocery store on theSE corner
of Main and Washington streets from 1890 to 1908. Two of their
children Lloyd and Vera were born there while the family lived
above the store. Around 1908 they moved the grocery business
further south in the same block, the 2nd building south of the alley.
Here they operated Grubbs & Strait Groceries until 1918. Then
from 1918 until 1928 they operated Grubbs & Son Groceries. Then the depression hit and the store was lost
to creditors.
Lloyd and Ruth Grubbs had left for work in Chicago during the depression, but returned to Center
Point in 1946. They purchased the drug store located on the west side of Main Street Between Washington
and State streets from John McKee. John had purchased the store a couple of years earlier from Charles
Yaeger, a pharmacist. Charles had built and operated the store in the early 1900’s.
The Grubbs had acquired an extensive inventory. The back room held rows of bottles with ground
glass stoppers, half-filled with powders and liquids. Small drawers contained smelly asafetida amulets worn to
repel disease. There was a tin of finely powdered snuff, the sort ladies carried in small elegant boxes. Shelves
contained patent medicines for many ailments including Lydia Pinkham’s Black Draught and Carter’s Little
Liver Pills.
Newman’s Skelly 1954. Remodeled shortly after this
picture into the station known as Rhineharts Texaco.
1954 station on SE corner of Washington and Franklin Streets.
Wormer Elevator being constructed in 1891
LJ Dennis & Son Elevator in 1954.

56
Because Lloyd was not a pharmacist, he
eventually disposed of the medicinal powders and
liquids. He continued to make “Cornhusker’s
Lotion”, a thick gooey concoction that bubbled as it
worked, from an old Yaeger formula. Gifts, greeting
cards, cosmetics, cigarettes, candies, comics,
paperback books and school supplies were added
to the inventory.
The small green marble counter and wire ice
cream chairs were replaced in 1947 with an enlarged
and modernized soda fountain. The soda fountain
was a popular spot for coffee breaks and waiting for
rides home. After school, soda jerks were kept busy
making five-cent fountain cokes. On weekly Band
Concert nights, the drug store was a popular meeting
spot.
Lloyd sold the business in 1952 and retired
to go fishing with his brother. Subsequent drug stores
in this building were Hronek Pharmacy, Harry &
Mabel Hill Sundries, Chuck’s Sundries and
Henderson Sundries.
--Patricia Grubbs Rand, Katherine Rand, Margaret Rand Weaver
Ruth and Lloyd Grubbs inside Grubbs Drug Store 1946-1952
Grubbs & Son Grocery c.1925
l-r: Marion Grubbs, Vernon Grubbs, Ruth (Fairbanks) Grubbs
and husband Lloyd Grubbs.

57
Hendryx Motors. Andy Hendryx started Hendryx Motors in Center Point in 1937. His business
was located on the west side of Main Street, the second building north of State Street. He sold Dodge,
Plymouth and DeSotos as well as repairing cars. Andy was forced to discontinue his business until after
WWII, because he had difficulty finding cars.
Business resumed after the war. Hendryx Motors continued to grow until it boasted that Center Point
had more Dodges per capita than any city in the United States in the 1950s. Sticker prices were not visible on
the windshields in the 1940s; factory rebates in the 1970s caused dealerships to post prices on the cars.
In 1964 Andy Hendryx retired and Ivan Coonrod bought the business. Ivan had been a part of the
business for many years, working as service manager. In 1982, Chrysler vehicles were added to the inventory
followed by the addition of Jeep in 1996.
Terry Tull started working for Hendryx Motors in 1962 and in 1981, he bought the business. The business
moved from Main Street to a new building at 4204 Lewis Access Road in 1985. Terry said after the move, his
business doubled and the number of employees increased from four to fourteen. Most business came from
Center Point and surrounding areas. In August, 2001, he sold to Junge. Prior to the sale, Hendryx Motors
could proclaim they were the second oldest continuous operating car dealership in Linn County.
Heverly Hardware. In 1895, E. H. and J. H. Heverly bought the Wilson drugstore building on the
southwest corner of Main and Olive streets. Edward and John opened Heverly Bros. Hardware. The store
became an institution that survived until 1966. In 1900, Edward left to go into the ministry, an area in which he
served for the next forty years. In 1907, John left the business to go to Panama to run a general store in the
Canal Zone. He was there until 1912 when he moved to Arkansas.
Hendryx Motors on Main Street in 1983.

58
Heverly Bros. Hardware in 1908. Operated for 71 years on this corner where today’s Golden Age Housing is located. l-
r: Ike Street Harve Heverly, Ray Knight, O. J. Heverly.
1910 stove department at Heverly Hardware. l-r: stove salesman, O. J. Heverly and Ray S. Knight.

59
John left the store to Otto Heverly, who had joined the business in 1900. When he first started, Otto
would load a wagon with wallpaper, paint and other supplies. He would travel the country papering and
painting for a number of months before he would return to Center Point for the winter.
Ray Knight, a brother-in-law, came into the business in 1907. The name was changed from the
Heverly Brothers to Heverly-Knight. The store sold all the newest merchandise: DeLaval separators, Mier
pumps, Warm Morning heaters and Aer Motor windmills. For the promotion of the Copperclad range, Mrs.
Otto Heverly would make and bake baking powder biscuits in the store. These, along with coffee, were
served free to the customers.
Otto had the distinction of sealing a box that was placed in the corner stone of the E.U.B. Church in
1911. The box contained a number of items including newspapers, coins and a list of the officers of the church.
In 1936, Knight left the business and the name was changed to Heverly Hardware. In 1945, Harold
Domer, husband of Wanda Rae (Heverly), managed the store for Otto. The office was in the back of the store
and was about six feet higher than the main floor, affording managers a good view of the activity in the store.
Wanda Rae has many memories of her life in the store. She can remember riding on the ladder that went along
the shelves in the store, much to the dismay of her father. She also remembers the case containing ten stuffed
birds, which was inherited from Wilson’s days as owner of the building, in the top of the second story stairwell.
This display case is now on exhibit at the Historical Museum.
The Heverly name had been associated with the hardware for 71 years. The store was closed in 1966
and the building was torn down in 1972 to make room for the Golden Age Housing Development.
Hotels. At one time, Center Point had three hotels. This was during the period of 1870 - 1900. This
shows the importance of a hotel in those days. When travel was by horse and buggy, you couldn’t get very far
before you needed accommodations. After a good night’s stay and a good meal, then you were on your way.
Washington House/Central Hotel/Commercial Hotel. In 1854, Jesse Grubbs built a hotel on the
northwest corner of Washington and Main streets. The hotel, then known as the Washington Hotel, had four
rooms, two upstairs and two downstairs. In its early days, it was a stagecoach stop for drivers from Cedar
Rapids to Independence.
Ownership changed hands when Stewart Smiley bought the hotel in 1866. In the early days of the
hotel, the owner would go to the railroad station to pick up the passengers that planned to stay at the hotel.
Since the town had no noon whistle, the owner of the hotel would stand on the corner every noon and ring a
hand held school bell.
The hotel was renamed the Central Hotel sometime before 1875. By 1900, the hotel’s named changed
a second time to Commercial Hotel. Other early owners were Menear, Stickle and Shaffer.
Mrs. Hattie Rogers remodeled the hotel when she bought it in 1919. The two north rooms were
sometimes rented to business people; Ory and Clair Glass operated a barbershop, Dr. Doty had an office, and
Martha Osborne operated a beauty shop. Hattie also served food to customers in the dining room. She would
purchase about one dollar of meat each day to feed about twenty people. She operated the hotel until
sometime in the 1940s.
Nora Barron bought and remodeled the hotel around 1950. She began operating a tavern in the front
part of the building and sold to Martin & Bernice Stade around 1958, who then sold to Austin Nolte. Louis
and Brodina Haddy purchased the hotel in 1962. Tragically, this historical building was destroyed by fire on
July 15, 1968. The building housed Haddy’s Haven, a tavern. Today, Louis and Brodina’s son, Tom Haddy,
operates the tavern. He bought it from them in 1978.
Montour Hotel. This hotel was locted on Main Street south of the post office. It was built
approximately 1855. Geo. Mitchell was a proprietor.

60
This hotel built in 1854, was known as Central House at this time in 1880. It was the ‘central place’ of the
town, serving as a stagecoach stop, voting place for town elections, and a good place to meet your
Same hotel, known as Commercial Hotel in 1908.

61
Commercial Hotel became Haddy’s Haven in 1962. On July 15, 1968, it caught fire and burned to the ground destroying
the 115 year old building. From right of photo: Steve Scherer, Philip Andersen, David Hynson, Kenneth M. Andersen,
rest are unidentified.
Commercial Hotel in 1954.

62
Revere Hotel. This was located on the west side of Main Street where the Meat Locker was later
located at 809 Main Street.
Pullman House/The Arcade. In 1873, J. C. Grubbs erected a new hotel near the train depot, called
the Pullman Hotel. This was on the SW corner of Franklin and Washington streets where the H. Holmans lived.
The hotel was refurbished in 1892, according to an article appearing in the October 6
th
edition of the newspaper.
“Last week witnessed the formal opening of a second hotel in our city. Formerly known as The Old Pullman
Hotel, it was thoroughly refinished
and fitted in first class style by F. M. Myers.
This is an elegantly provisioned house in
every respect. Our traveling public’s
patronage has begun to assume large
proportions for our size as a little city. The
old Pullman House has been renamed The
Arcade. It is on the east side of town near
the depot. Mr. Myers has spared no pains
to rent this building with every thing in the
most artistic manner.” The hotel also
boasted the close proximity of a livery
stable, owned by A. D. Hoff, “where good
rigs at reasonable rates can be secured.”
In 1911, the Pullman Hotel was
moved across Franklin Street to its current
site, Heins Barbershop and home. In 1935,
Clarence, “Shorty”, and Myrtle, “Myrt”,
Woods rented the first floor of the hotel and opened a café called S & M Sandwich. People were still living in
the 2
nd
floor of the hotel. When the second floor rents left, The Woods family bought the hotel for $1,000.
They lived in the upstairs and operated the café until 1947. Lou and Lee Pech then purchased the café, calling
it, This ‘L Do Café.
In 1951, Oren and Flossie Heins bought the building. The Heins family lived there and operated the
café until a new building was constructed that housed the This ‘L Do and DX Station. The new building was
located on the southwest corner of Franklin and Iowa street.
Gary Heins and his wife use the old hotel as their residence today. Gary states that the lobby for the hotel was
on the first floor. The front door was located on the south side and the stairway was located in the center of the
Interior picture of Revere Hotel around 1911. Til and Helen Hoglan own-
ers. Til is standing behind desk in center.
A. D. Hoff Livery service 1896, located next to Pullman
Hotel. Passenger is Charles Gitchell.
Hoff’s Livery barn around 1911, still standing in 2004 at
520 Washington Street.

63
building. When it became a
café, the dining room and
counter were on the north
side, but later moved to the
south side. The rooms
facing Franklin Street on the
second floor had a large
sitting room on the north end
and a small dressing room
and a bathroom in the south
end. The back of the
building facing the depot
included five small rooms for
guests. Gary found some
graffiti in the attic, which
stated, “I am Eldon
Dennison and I lived here in
1913.”
Kubias Harness
Shop. Albert Kubias started his
harness shop in 1870 in a building
on State Street, just east of Union
Hall (the old city hall). This
building is still standing today at
321 State Street. In 1895,
advertising proclaimed that he
was the “best harness maker in
northern Linn County, using
nothing but the finest oak tanned
leather.” He hand made all of the
harnesses, a method he believed
that was far superior to machine
made. He also carried saddles,
whips, dusters, fur robes and
everything else usually handled in
a first-class horse millinery and
mule jewelry emporium.
His son, Frank Kubias ran the shop until after 1950, serving customers as his father did before him.
Linn County Nursery. Abraham Snyder and his oldest son, Simon, founded the Linn County Nursery
on the family farm two miles south of Center Point. Although the official date of the nursery’s beginning was
1892, Abraham started raising nursery stock immediately after returning from the Civil War in 1865. Abraham
planted a vineyard that included several varieties and an orchard that had just come into bearing when it was
wiped out by one of the hard winters of the early 1880’s.
Pullman Hotel turned into cafe in 1935. Known as “This ‘L Do Cafe” in 1947.
Pullman Hotel, built in 1873, today home of Gary Heins.

64
Abraham, born in 1836, came to Linn County in 1855 and married Mary Chamberlain in 1859; they
raised a family of seven children on the 200-acre farm. Mary was born in Otter Creek Township in 1841, one
of the first children to be born to white settlers in Linn County, and probably the first in that township.
A retail price list, from the spring of 1898, lists A. Snyder and Son as proprietors. The four-page
brochure emphasizes that varieties are suited to the climate. Forty-seven varieties of apple trees were offered
for 25¢. Stock also included crab
trees, plum trees, cherry trees,
grapes, raspberries,
blackberries, currants,
gooseberries, strawberries,
evergreens, roses, shrubs, vines
and flowers. They began business
with native trees and fruits. They
worked very hard at developing
trees that were hardy in the
winters. Gradually they
experimented with these native
varieties and added oriental
shrubs and flowers. They
became well known for their
different varieties of nut trees.
They were responsible for
preserving several varieties of nut
trees from extinction. For
example, in the 1940s they were
the only nursery in the United
States that had a particular variety
of nut tree.
Abraham died in 1901
and Simon continued to operate
the nursery while his youngest
brother, Davis, studied
horticulture at Iowa State
Ad that appeared in the 1907 Atlas of Linn County, Iowa
Kubias shop standing today at 321 State Street used as a
dwelling.
Albert Kubias Harness Shop in 1895. G.A.R. Hall (Union
Hall) seen at left. l-r: Albert Kubias and John Burns.

65
College. Simon regarded the honeybee as “a necessary adjunct to successful fruit growing,” and in 1903 his
apiary of 110 colonies produced a little over five tons of honey. When Davis graduated in 1907, he joined
Simon in the family business and is pictured in the Snyder Brothers Company advertisement in the 1907 Atlas
of Linn County, Iowa, with the caption, “Specialist in Plant Diseases and Entomology.” Both Simon and
Davis liked to display fruits and nuts and brought home many ribbons and trophies from fairs and expositions.
In later years they were active in the Northern Nut Growers Association, always searching for varieties that
would be hardy in colder climates. Davis believed that every farm youngster should have some good nut to
harvest and crack.
In 1908 the nursery was moved to a fifty-acre tract adjoining Center Point on the east at the corner of
Franklin and Iowa Streets. Today, in 2004, that location is Windmill Landscape and Garden Center. The
Snyder brothers viewed their new location as advantageous because of its proximity to the railroad. They
shipped all over the Midwest, even to China and to brother, Arthur, who lived in Australia. Several buildings
were erected. Today the tile building used as a packing shed with an office in one end is still partially standing.
On the property was also a house and garage.
Simon died in 1932 and Davis continued to operate the nursery, with his sister, Minnie, as part of the
Snyder Brothers Corporation. Since only two of their siblings had married and were living out of state, there
were no immediate family members ready to take over the family business. After World War II a young man
who shared Davis’s
interest in nut trees,
Albert Ferguson from
Dunbar, Nebraska,
came to work at the
nursery. When Davis
was ready to retire
around 1947, Albert
and his brother, Roy,
leased the nursery and
eventually purchased it
from the Snyders. Davis
continued his interest in
the business and Albert
and Roy were almost
like the sons he never
had. Albert lived in a
house on the nursery
property.
Landscaping became an important part of their business. Davis was proud of the landscaping he
completed when the new Collins Radio was built. “Six months later,” he said, “they expanded the building and
tore all the landscaping out.” During the years that the Snyders operated the nursery, it provided seasonal
employment for many residents of Center Point. During the 1960’s many individuals could mention having
worked at the nursery while in school or for a season or two. It was not unusual to hear the farm referred to
as “the nursery farm.”
The tornado that hit Center Point in spring of 1961 took the roof off the tile building and severely
damaged other buildings as well as many of the nut trees Davis had spent years propagating. The office and
greenhouses were rebuilt near the highway, with apartments for the family above the office and showroom.
When the Fergusons were ready to retire, the property was bought and sold several times with its present
owners, DeWayne and Gloria Janey, operating the business as Windmill Landscape & Garden Center. Today
Linn County Nursery buildings on Iowa Street in 1908. Tile building was used as a packing
shed. It was mostly destroyed by the 1961 tornado.

66
Jeff and Cindy Squires and their sons live on the Snyder homestead and the “nursery farm” at 4250 N. Center
Point Rd.
Lumber. The first settlers had their “lumber yards” out in the woods where they cut their own trees
and hewed their homes from native lumber. But a growing town must have adequate lumber to build. S.
Kethledge built the first commercially operated lumberyard in the late 1870’s. He continued to operate this
yard until 1885 when L. Gilchrist became Center Point’s chief lumber furnisher. The yard continued under his
ownership until 1919 when it was sold to Edward Wirsching, Levi C. Eastman, and W. W. Holman. Edward
sold his interest in the business to the remaining two partners in 1931 and Howard Holman, the son of W. W.
Holman, was appointed manager of the yard. In the winter of 1938, Eastman sold his interest in the partnership
to Holman.
Money was very tight in the early days of the Depression. One year the business paid more for
purchasing inventory than sales.
The work in the lumberyard involved a lot of heavy lifting. Lumber and cement were brought into town
by railroad. In the early days, the ninety-four pound sacks of cement were unloaded by hand, sack-by-sack.
First the sacks were moved from the boxcar to the truck. Then the sacks were moved from the truck to a
place in the yard or to the customer.
Howard Holman used to see how quickly he could unload the cars. His incentive was minimizing the
fees that were paid to the railroad. The fees were based on the length of time the railroad car was standing on
the track. Later, the yard acquired a roller from the car to the truck.
Howard’s dogs including Major, a Saint Bernard, and Ike and Winnie, English Bulldogs, were frequent
visitors at the yard. The customers’ favorite pet was Jack, a Boston Terrier. They enjoyed watching Jack
jump into nail kegs to retrieve marked nails.
Howard’s son, Dick, became a full time employee at the yard in 1951 after leaving the Navy. In
January 1952, Dick became a partner with Howard. Dick became the manager after Howard retired in 1966.
The yard was sold in 1970 and renamed Stimson Lumber Yard. The building is now the location of the Greiner
Well Drilling business.
--Mary Holman
McNiel’s Grocery. Kenneth and Lena McNiel purchased a grocery store from Don Elliott in late
May, 1949. When Kenneth died suddenly on June 3, 1955, Lena continued managing the store for an
Lumber yard operated by L. Gilchrist 1885 until 1919.

67
additional 12 years. Lena’s
children, Harold and Lois, as well
as several employees, helped.
Stock for the store was purchased
from Witwers and Nash Finch in
Cedar Rapids and later Mulls in
Muscatine.
Meat was purchased from
Raths and Wilsons. When a side
of beef was delivered, it was taken
to the Center Point Locker Plant,
which was owned by Paul and Opal
Johnson. The Locker would cut
and grind the meat into hamburger
for sale in the store.
Eggs were purchased from
farmers. The McNiels candled the eggs. The eggs that weren’t sold over the counter were sold to Ray
Schrunk.
Lois recently visited with a member of the Johnson family who lived in Rock Island as a youth. He
remembered that his dad would buy a whole case of “unusual” brown eggs from the store. In exchange, his
dad would bring a case of “unusual” yellow margarine from Illinois. Iowa didn’t have colored margarine at the
time.
Lois remembers another time when her
brother was sent to the basement to sack
potatoes. Terry Tull, a schoolmate, decided to
play a prank and shut the trap door, locking
Harold in the basement. Their mother was very
hard of hearing so she couldn’t hear Harold yelling.
Terry went back to school, but later he called Lena
and told her to let Harold out of the basement.
On Friday, May 26, 1967, the family held
a public auction to liquidate the store. Lois
remembers that the next day was her mother’s
66
th
birthday; it seemed strange for her mother
not to go to work.
Irvin Sweeting salvaged the screen door with
a metal Colonial Bread sign attached from the
store. Darwin hung the screen between his house
and garage. Irvin gave Lois two panels from the
inner door. She painted fruit on the panels and
hung them in the kitchen.
--Lois McNiel
Manahan Implement. Al Manahan
came to Center Point in 1855. He began work
as a blacksmith until 1886, when he entered into
Harold and mother, Lena McNiel, behind the counter at McNiels
Grocery around 1960.
Center Point Lumber Yard in the 1960s. Operated by Howard Holman from 1938 to
1970.

68
the implement business. He owned a large two-story building that measured 36x30. I.O.O.F and A.F.&A.M.
lodges occupied the second floor of the building.
The business’s inventory included a large stock of farm machinery. Specialties included John Deere
plows, Milwaukee binders and mowers, all the best buggies and wagons, and corn planters. He had everything
the farmer needed and kept all kinds of repair parts on hand.
Mr. Manahan lived in town and owned 6 ½ acres of ground in the city. He also held many municipal
offices.
Metcalf Mill. Blue Creek has its origin near
the northern county line. The creek angles to the
southwest, joining the Cedar River about four miles
southwest of Center Point and approximately two
miles directly west of Center Point. At this point,
Metcalf & Thomas built a dam and sawmill in the
late 1850s. The mill was located in the midst of a
wide area of deep woods and an 1859 map shows
no road leading to it. In the early 1860s, a gristmill
was added and in 1869, a road and bridge is shown
on the map, angling to the northwest and into
Benton County.
The first recorded Linn County history states
that this mill was called Diamond Mill and was
powered by either water or steam. It was also
the old reliable mill of Washington Township. M.
A. Moyer seems to have been the operator at
that time. Dave and Beth Seltrecht’s farm includes
the land where this mill stood. Some time ago, they say remnants of the mill were still visible.
Newspapers. In February 1869, W. H. Patrick printed the first newspaper in Center Point. The size
of this first paper was 10 x 12 inches. He sold the business in May 1869 to T. J. Metcalf who ran the paper for
one year under the name, Center Point News. The paper was merged with the LaPorte City Progress when
T. J. Metcalf moved to LaPorte City, Iowa.
The Center Point Lotus is credited as the first real newspaper printed in Center Point. The paper’s
size was as large as Chicago papers. It was considered one of the best papers in the state. Dr. J. F. Wilson &
Sons were the publishers and Vol. 1, No. 1, bears the date May 15, 1873.
T. J. Metcalf was its first editor, and he filled the pages of the Lotus until 1874 when W. T. Baker took
charge. W.T. Baker subsequently committed suicide, and the paper was sold to H. A. Cook of Cedar Rapids.
In 1876, T. J. Metcalf and S. M. Dunlap purchased the business and changed the name of the paper to the
Center Point Mirror.
S. M. Dunlap acquired sole ownership in 1881-82 and changed the name of the paper to Courier
Journal. In 1883 McGrath & Floyd were owners and in 1884 G. L. Wilson took over the business. In late
1884 Wilson sold out to Milas Oxley and Chas. F. Floyd. The partnership continued until 1889 when Chas.
Floyd acquired full ownership. In 1889 Floyd sold out to Frank T. Sheppard who, with the help of Mr. Floyd,
ran the paper until January 1891. At that time, Thos. Oxley and his partner, Webb, published a paper under
the name Oxley & Webb. In 1892 Oxley took over sole ownership. In January 1892 Oxley changed the
name of the weekly Courier Journal to the Center Point Journal.
Manahan Implement circa 1885, located on NE corner of Main
and State streets. Mr. Manahan shown at extreme right.

69
Oxley also published Center Point’s first and only daily paper—The Daily Rustler in 1892. This daily
venture, however, lasted only three months. High expenses and low news content made it impossible to continue.
These old volumes are very interesting to read as you can readily sense the struggle of a country editor
attempting to publish a daily paper in a town of 600 to 700 people.
Oxley was assumed to remain as editor until 1899. The next owner of record was L. C. Barber who
ran the paper until 1908. The business was taken over by J. A. Mahuran until 1913 or 1914. After those
dates the records are very sketchy until about 1916 or 1917 when Taylor purchased the plant and began
publishing the Center Point Independent. He ran the paper for a number of years and at his death J. A.
Mahuran again emerged as editor. Mahuran sold the business several years later to A. A. Oltrogge. Ownership
of the paper changed hands two more times before the newspaper gave a final gasp and expired about 1951.
Later, various editors produced weekly newspapers entitled The Center Point Times and Town and
Country Shopper. These editors and associate editors included: John Falton, Edna Kubias, Usa Neville, Joan
Bugg, Harold & Gary Vos and Andy Aasaard. The last issue was published on February 12, 1964.
Many of these old newspapers have been saved and are part of the collection of the Center Point
Community Historical Society.
Point Inn Restaurant. This was located at 93 Franklin Street where Center Point Veterinary Clinic
is located today. It was built around 1950, a typical 50’s style diner with tile floors and juke box “selectors” at
every booth where you could put your nickel in and push your favorite selection. This was ‘the place to be’
Some of Center Point newspapers over the years. The Center Point Lotus was printed weekly from 1873 until 1876. The
longest running paper was The Center Point Independent from 1910 thru 1951. The Center Point Times ran until 1964.
Over the ninety-five years of existance, there were 19 papers and 42 owners-publishers.

70
with the 1950s high school crowd. In 1962 Mr. and Mrs. Willie Brandy purchased the business from Mrs.
Arlene Bowers. Previously on this site was a house which burned down, owned by a Hawley family.
Ray Smith Shoe Shop. Ray Smith operated the town’s only shoe shop during the late 1930s and
1940s. He and his wife, Olive, had
three children: Mary Claire, Dick
and Don (Dutch). Olive worked
part time in Tone Dunbar’s Dry
Goods Store and Jack Sholes
Grocery, in addition to running the
household.
Their home and business
was located on the Southeast
corner of Main and Green streets.
He repaired the town’s old shoes
(new heels & soles for $3.50) and
sold ‘Well U Well’ shoes.
Ray’s favorite story
(among countless related in the
shoe shop) involves a local farmer.
The farmer was ranting about his
ongoing feud with his father-in-law, who had recently arrived from the old country. After forcefully voicing
several reasons why he disliked his father-in-law, he ended the tirade with the heated comment, “And the SOB
don’t even have his civilization papers!”
Ray & Olive are gone, Mary Claire lives in Cedar Rapids, Dick in Wickenburg, AZ, and Don (Dutch)
in Corning, CA.
Issac (Ike) Street Grocery operated at 822 Main Street from 1925 to 1942. Ike managed the
store until 1933. Ike was well liked by the townspeople. Children visiting the store would get a “pinch bottom
sack” filled with candy whether they had a penny or a nickel to pay.
During the Depression, Ike would trade for goods if customers did not have money. Many other
customers purchased goods on credit. After the Depression, Ike gave his customers a chance for a new
beginning. Ike burned the credit slips of any customer who agreed to continue trading with him.
His 18-year-old daughter, Erma, managed the store until 1944. Erma met her future husband, John
Busenbark, at the store. John delivered pop and beer to her store for Witwer Grocers. The Street store was
closed in 1944, a couple of years after Erma and John married.
Store hours were long, not just for the grocery store, but for many of the Main Street businesses.
Typical store hours on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday were from 7 a.m. to 6-7 p.m. On Monday and Wednesday,
the stores were opened from 7 a.m. to 10-11 p.m. On Saturday night, the stores stayed open until midnight.
Erma remembers that the town bustled with activity on Saturday nights. Parking spaces were at a premium.
People would come from the country to obtain the week’s supplies. After business was conducted, the men
would head for the taverns, card halls or billiard rooms. Women would take advantage of the opportunity to
socialize in the various stores.
Erma has many fond memories connected with the store. When she was a child, she and her sister, Iris,
played a practical joke on the men who sat on benches in front of the store. The girls lined the door of the
1954 The Point Inn Restaurant, today home to Center Point Veterinary Clinic.

71
basement coal chute with firecrackers they got from the store. They lit them while the men were engaged in
serious conversation. The surprised men threatened to “get even” some day.
Erma remembers the country folk coming into town during tough winters on a bobsled to get supplies.
People would trade their goods for groceries. On a typical Saturday night, farmers would trade as many as
100 cases of eggs for groceries. The dealers would arrive at midnight after the store closed to purchase the
eggs.
The Benion Poultry Hatchery took over the building after the grocery store closed.
This ‘L Do Café. In 1947, Lou and Lee Pech bought S & M Sandwich, located at 816 Franklin
Street, from the Woods. The couple renamed the restaurant to the “This’L Do”, because at that time it was the
only restaurant on the highway. Muriel (Pech) Owen, a daughter, recalls how her parents “forced her to labor”
in the restaurant. She waited on tables, washed dishes, filled pop cases, and learned to bake delicious pies.
Muriel states they served the town with the best pies in the county. People came from all over for Sunday
dinner in the dining room. Semi trucks lined the highway as drivers stopped on the busy highway for coffee,
good food, and conversation. Often the drivers caught “thirty winks” before resuming their travel; Lou agreed
to awaken them at the requested time.
In the fall, they served group after group of threshers in the dining room. Bowls and platters of food
passed around one group after another as they tried to keep enough food flowing out of the kitchen to feed the
hungry workers and the regular lunch crowd.
The family lived upstairs and they worked downstairs. It was their duty to maintain the fire whistle and
also flip the switch for the noon whistle each day, even though it was during the noon lunch rush and hard to
keep an eye on the clock. They also took phone calls from farmers wanting their animals artificially inseminated.
This was a service they performed for the Eastern Iowa Artificial Breeders. Muriel said there were three
phones, one for the breeders, one for the fire department and one for the café.
Muriel remembers walking to the post office for mail and the locker plant for the meat for the next day.
She also recalls walking to the Corner Grocery on Main Street to fill in the items her Mom had forgotten to
order from Witwer Grocery.
In 1951, Oren and Flossie Heins purchased and operated the café, living on the second floor with their
children, Dale and Judy. They purchased meat from Leo Notbohm, who raised Black Angus south of Center
Point. In 1954, they built a new building to house the restaurant on the southwest corner of Franklin and Iowa
streets. The restaurant was combined with a DX Station Truck Stop. Flossie and Dale’s wife, Pauline, ran the
café, which operated for 24-hours a day, while
Oren operated the station. The truck stop was
busy and many thought the business was “pretty
classy” for a town the size of Center Point.
Pauline continued to run the café until 1965.
Subsequent owners include Marion
Chirstianson, Hally Dronebarger, and Reece
until the late 1970s. Bill Rhinehart operated
the station in 1958. In 1970, he moved his
business to the northwest corner of Franklin and
Washington streets
Veterinarians. The earliest known
veterinary surgeon operating in Center Point was
This ‘L Do Cafe began in 1947 at this location where Gary Heins
lives and has his barbershop in 2004.

72
C.J. Gardner. He was practicing in 1906. He was also the proprietor of the Commercial House and Livery
Stable.
Vincent George Bromwell followed, starting a veterinary practice in Center Point after graduating from
Iowa State University in 1917. His business was located on Washington Street, behind Nelson’s Cabinets.
Vincent married Caroline Wiley and they had one son, David R., born in 1923, and one daughter, Kathleen A.
Kathleen served as a nurse in the Army during WWII and never married.
Dr. A. R. Miller was active in the area from 1927-1928. His business was also located in the barn
behind the Commercial Hotel.
Dr. V. Bromwell’s son, David, became the next veterinarian operating in Center Point. After serving in
the army in Italy in WWII, David attended the Iowa
State Veterinary School, graduating in 1949. After
practicing in Cedar Rapids for a year, Dr. D.
Bromwell joined his father in Center Point and their
business was known as Bromwell and Bromwell.
David married Norma Jean Oliphant, a Center Point
native.
Dr. D. Bromwell was specialized in equine
and was also generalized in practice. The Center
Point area had a large population of horses. David
remembers bouts with sleeping sickness and equine
encephalitis.
When Vincent’s health failed in the 1950s,
Oliver Whitcomb joined the practice and it was
known as Bromwell & Whitcomb until Dr.
Whitcomb left in 1962. In 1967, David and Norma
Jean moved to Illinois, where they reside today.
The This ‘L Do Cafe and DX Truck Stop was built in 1954.
Bromwell Veterinary until 1967 on Washington Street. Origi-
nally was A. D. Hoff Livery Stables in 1890s. Today in 2004 is
home to Center Point Farm and Auto. Picture taken in 1983.

73
Wickham Cement Factory. W. F. Wickham built a cement factory on Green Street just east of the
Main Street corner in 1912. The factory puts out cement blocks, burial vaults, blocks for silos and corn cribs
and ornaments such as lattice work and balls. Huge mixers mixed the sand and cement and then the mud was
poured into molds. There were five kilns in the plant that cooked the cement molds for 48 hours while under
steam pressure. After removal from the kilns, the cement product was allowed to dry. The output during a
day’s work was over 300 blocks.
The factory property was 86 x
48 feet with numerous storage rooms
and out buildings. The water supply for
the factory was gotten from a 60 foot
dug well which was drawn upon
continuously for ten hours at one time
without diminishing the flow of the well.
The most distinct product of the factory
was the Norwalk burial vault.
Remnants of the cement factory
buildings can been seen today on Green
Street. The residence there today on the
corner of Main and Green has a cement
block garage which appears to be the
western most building of the old factory.
Wilson’s Curio Shop.
Leonidas L. Wilson came to Center Point in 1855 with his parents. His father, J. F. Wilson operated the first
drug store in Center Point, manufacturing their own line of patent medicines. Leonidas was a well rounded
businessman as he started the first real newspaper in 1873, drew up the documents for the incorporation of
Center Point, and served on the first town council. In 1914, his exclusive business was selling insurance and
bonds. He ran his insurance business out of his Curio Shop located at 511 Washington Street behind today’s
1911 Building sidewalks in Center Point. Top l-r: Wm Neighbors, Wayne
Wickham. Front l-r: Wm. Rogers, Clair Johnson, Wm. Wickham (who
owned the cement factory).
Wickham Cement Factory operated on Green Street in 1912.

74
Nelson Cabinets. He collected unusual artifacts in his shop for display to the public. He ran newspaper
articles often telling the public of his latest specimens he had acquired. On display were a 1790 flax spinning
wheel from Scotland; a 1812 flint lock musket, captured from a confederate bushwacker in 1861 by a union
soldier; a double barreled pistol taken from Sitting Bull when captured; a piece of Sycamore tree that grew in
the cellar of the store where Abe Lincoln clerked in 1832; bill of sale for $800 for a negro slave in 1841; guns,
razors and nooses used by suicides presented by Coronor King; Egytian idol from 3000 BC; coins from 683
BC of every century down to the present; ancient steel coat of arms; relics from Vicksburg, Antietem, Gettysburg;
Japanese executioner swords; stuffed animals and birds, etc. Mr. Wilson beckoned people to stop in and see
his Curio Shop, it didn’t cost a cent.
Eventually, some of Mr. Wilson’s collection was given to the city and displayed in the old town hall up
until the late 1940s when it was given to the Center Point High School and displayed for a few years. Don
Carver recalls how just before Mr. Bob Bowers retired from teaching, the remainder of the collection was
given to the University of Iowa.
Circa 1914 inside L. L. Wilson’s Curio Shop

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Walking Tour of Main Street
Take a minute to stroll down Main Street and remember the businesses and people who frequented
the buildings that lined the street. Our walk begins on the southwest corner of Green and Main Street
on the west side. We will proceed south down Main Street, crossing Washington Street and State
Street. When we arrive at Olive Street, we will cross Main Street and then proceed north. We will
venture a little on State Street and proceed north on Main Street.crossing it State Street and Washington
Street. Our journey will conclude on the southeast corner of Green and Main streets.
Our tour begins at Bob’s Auto Interiors, which is located at 915 Main Street. Bob Downing is
the owner and only employee of his business. He opened the business in November of 2002. He does
auto interior upholstery and
carpet. During winter
months, he also upholsters
furniture. Bob rents the
building from Scotty
Diveley. The location served
as home to various garages
and Chevrolet dealerships
including Widdle Chevrolet,
Suchomel Chevrolet, Charlie
Wachel Garage and Wormer
Chevrolet Garage.
Proceeding south down
Main Street is a private
residence that once housed
the office of Dr. Liabo, a
dentist, and Dr. Doty, a
physician. The earliest
occupant on the site was
William Langsdale. His
grocery store adjoined the
Holland Building.
Next door to that
house is another private
residence. This location is the
former site of the Shear
Design Beauty Salon,
Primmer Barber Shop, Grant
and Maude Mittlestedt
Barbershop and Beryl Hunter
Barber.
Kurt and Robin Sempf
have owned Paul Revere’s Pizza, which is located at 905 Main Street, since April 16, 2004. There are five
employees, and they provide delivery and carry out pizza and similar type food. The building was the former
location of the Precision Point Beauty Salon, Nancy’s Styling Point, and Georgene’s Beauty Shop. It was also
the site of the former Post Office. The first occupant of the site was J.W. Holland, who had a furniture store
Bob’s Auto Interiors in 2004.
East side of 900 Block of Main Street, looking south in 2004.

76
and undertaking establishment. After his death, the
property was sold to Lee Dennison who sold it to
Heverly and Knight. They had a hardware and tin
shop. This building was demolished and in its place,
D.C. Yost constructed the building now used by Paul
Revere’s Pizza.
The adjoining vacant lot was most recently
the site of Dennison Insurance. Previous occupants
on the site include Anna Mae Lampman Beauty
Shop, and a millinery shop.
The private residence on the northwest
corner of Main and Washington Streets is one of
the oldest buildings in Center Point. The building,
constructed in 1878, originally housed the George
C. Bliss Mercantile. The Knights of Pythias
purchased the building in 1904 and occupied the
second floor. The lower portion of the building
was rented to various businesses. In the 1920s,
two restaurants, Sharkey Davis Restaurante and
Jewel Durst Restaurant, were operated in the
building. Following that, several taverns including
Abe’s Tavern, Zieser Tavern, and John and Vi’s Tavern occupied the building. For a couple of years in the
early 70s it was The Teen Center. In 1976, the Center Point Community Historical Society purchased the
building and occupied it until 1996. The site was the location of Dr. S. M. Brice’s office in 1854. He was a
physician and also sold some goods. In 1855, A. A. Adams acquired the store.
Crossing Washington Street, are three vacant lots. The first lot is the site of the following businesses:
Sholes Variety Store, Laura’s
Clothing Store, Gambles
Hardware Store, Cliff
William’s Pool Hall, and John
Ashlock’s Pool Hall. The
second empty lot was the site
of Howard Dufoe Hardware,
Ross Lockhart Hardware,
which operated in the 1940s,
Yost Hardware, which
operated from 1920s to 1930s,
and Dee Newland Pool Hall.
Heefner & Newman Grocery,
Vern Fee Grocery, and Dunbar
Dry Goods used the last vacant
lot.
Adjacent to the vacant
lots is the Dog House, a local
tavern. Former occupants
include the Pit Stop, Whistle
Stop, the Pizza Place, the Other
Bliss Mercantile, built in 1878. Above picture in 1954
when it was home to Abe’s Tavern. It was the Historical
Society Museum from 1976-1996.
Picture taken in 2004.
On left is empty building previously home to Hendryx Motors, next is Center Point
Floral. Across the alley is Family Consignment and The Dog House.

77
Place, Ron’s Place, Jim and Barb Ashlock’s Tavern, Kratzer’s Tavern, a Tavern owned by Krieg, Fosnacht,
and Bryant, Ziesers Tavern which operated in the 1940s, Willard Hoff Tavern which operated between 1934
and 1935 and the Cozy Theater which was owned by Homer Lanning. On the north side of the building, an
exterior stairway led to the second floor, which was known as Yost Hall.
Next to the Dog House, is the Family Closet, a consignment store. The building previously
housed a Janitorial Supply Company, a Dance Studio, a Floral Shop, a Ceramic Shop, Henderson
Sundries, Chuck’s Sundries in 1965-1970, Harry and Mabel Hill Sundries 1960-1965, Hronek Pharmacy
in the 1950s, Lloyd and Ruth Grubbs Drug Store in the 1940s and Chas. Yeager Drug Store in the 1900s
to 1940s.
Across the alley is one of Center Point’s newest businesses, Center Point Floral & Gifts,
which opened February 2004. The business, located at 809 Main Street, is owned and operated by
Laurene Case and Judy Parizek. They sell fresh flowers, green and blooming plants, balloons, gift
ware, antiques, stuffed animals, and candles. They have local delivery as well as sending items anywhere
in the US and Canada. They also handle flowers for weddings, funerals, proms, parties, and anniversaries.
Other prior businesses located on the site include: Lindley Locker, Harms Locker, Johnson
Locker from 1950s-1970s, Shorty and Myrtle Woods Restaurant in 1930s, Pete Clark’s Restaurant,
Beryl Hunter Barber Shop, Jimmy and Anna Mae Lampman Barbershop, Glass Bros. Barbershop and
the Revere House Hotel in 1910.
The next building on the block was home for many years to Hendryx Motors, a Dodge dealership.
Previously, the building housed the Orval Newland Garage.
A private residence located on the northeast corner of Main and State Streets served as the
former site of People’s Bank from 1946-1960s. Previous banks also occupied the building including
North Linn Savings Bank from 1937-1946, Center Point Walker Bank & Trust from 1931-1937, and
the Farmers State Bank until its demise in 1930. During the height of the depression, the building was
used by the Center Point School to house the eighth grade class; Winifred Wormer was the teacher. A
two-story frame building occupied the site before the bank building. Mr. Soper and his son-in-law,
B.M. Hilliard, operated a Grocery and Crockery business with living quarters on the second floor. The house
was moved from the site, by turning the residence to face Summit Street.
On the southwest corner of
Main and State Streets are two
vacant lots. The corner lot was
occupied by Hoefle Chiropractor,
Williams Dry Goods and Dunbar
Dry Goods . Next lot south was
McNeil Grocery, Elliott Grocery
and Graves Grocery and also
Dunbar Dry Goods before the
building burnt down. The third
lot is today Tony’s Body Shop,
formerly home to Jim Dvoky
Body Shop and Wachel Garage.
The gas pumps that were in front of
the building fifty years ago have
disappeared. The site originally
housed R. Andrew Grocery Store
and Restaurant. Andrews spent
Picture in 1954 of sw corner of Main and State streets. Right to left is
Dunbar Dry Goods, McNiel Grocery, Jim Divoky Body Shop and apart-
ment building.

78
Same view in 2004.
Same view in 2004.
Looking north on Main Street from Olive Street, circa 1910.

79
much time and money trying to invent a horseless carriage. Unfortunately, he never succeeded.
Next to the garage is an apartment building that has operated from the 1950’s to present. Mrs. Higgins
erected the building. She used the south room for a Variety Store. The north room was used as the Post Office
when Mrs. Rogers was Postmistress. The second floor was used for living quarters. In the past, it also housed
the dental office of Dr. Ringnell, a dentist, on the south side ground floor. The telephone company occupied the
north side of the ground floor.
Across the alley are two vacant lots. The first lot was the former site of the American Legion Hall,
apartments, the Center Point Newspaper from 1910 to 1951 and J.A. Fairbanks Photography Studio, which
opened in 1857.
The second lot was the site of Wilson Jewelry Store. In addition to selling jewelry, the first
telephone system was located in the store. Originally, there were three phones in Center Point: Fred
Stauffer-stock yards, J.M. Bartleson-Machinery and the Linn County Bank. Wilson sold the property
to C.L. Heverly. Dr. C.G. Yost later used the building as an office.
On the corner of Main Street and Olive Street is the Golden Age Housing unit built and operated
from 1973 to present. The housing unit became a reality after two and a half years of planning. The
first $4,900 for the construction was raised by donations from residents. The non-profit organization
also received a loan from the federal government for $53,600.
The site was the location of a log cabin that housed a printing shop. J. F. Wilson built a new
building, which was used as a drug store, in 1870. He also operated a printing press to print labels for
his patent medicines on the second floor. Center Point’s first real newspaper was written and printed
from the second floor. Several men were employed by the business including F. Chesley, a traveling
salesman. The building was sold in 1895 to E.H. and Harve Heverly for a hardware store and remained
in the Heverly family for 71 years. Frank Floyd and Dee Newland also had a drug store in the building
for a short time.
Crossing Main Street at Olive Street, we face the playground area of the Little People Day Care
and Learning Center, Inc. The Center Point Child Care Center previously occupied the building. The site
was the previous location of a private residence.
Proceeding, north up Main Street, we pass the new Post Office, which began operating from this
location in 1971. The site was the prior location of the movie theatre that operated from the 1940s to the
Northeast corner of Main and Olive Streets in 2004. Little People Day Care and Learning Center on the right and Post
Office on left.

80
700 block of Main Street, looking north. Fourth of July parade, 1906. The center brick building is Dr. Mark
Newland’s office. Notice the bandstand in the street on the corner.
Same view in 2004.

81
1950s. Hoglan Implement was the
previous occupant of the building
during the 1920s and 1930s. The
first occupant of the building was
People’s Grocery Store.
Goodman’s Plant and Posies
operated in a building located
between the Post Office and the old
bank. Previously, the building housed
apartments, the office of Dr. Charles
Yost in his final years of practice, and
originally the offices of Drs. Elzo and
Mark A. Newland. The site was the
location of the second business to
open in Center Point in 1854, Carr
and Bartelson General Store.
Across the alley is the
former site of the Center Point
Bank (1999-2003), and Iowa
State Bank & Trust (1981-
1999). Before the bank was
built, the previous building
housed Dunham Service
Station, Grocery Store and
Brookman’s Clothing.
Heading east down
State Street on the south side
is today Center Point
Laundromat and apartments
and Telephone building.
Previously it was Benion
Nursing Home, a creamery and chicken
hatchery. On down the street was Nels
Lindquist Shoe Shop Manny Cochran
Restaurant, J. M. Bartelson Implement
and Sarchett Implement.
Crossing State Street to the middle
of the block at 321 State is the residence
that once housed KubiasHarness Shop.
West of that was the old G.A.R./Union
Hall.
On the northeast corner of Main and
State Streets is a private residence that
Band leading Memorial Day parade down State Street circa 1910.
On this same corner Block 1, Lot 1in the town plat, in 1954 stood the LaVelle
home. It was possibly built in 1854 by John Carr just south of the Carr-
Bartelson General Store. Great granddaughter, Emma LaVelle, was still
living here in 1954. This today is the playground for the Day Care.
Taken in 2004, SE corner of Main and State streets. Built as the Center Point Bank in
1999 will become the Center Point Library in summer 2004.

82
used to house Goodman’s Plants & Posies in
the 1970s. Previous buildings on the site housed
Reick Welding, Hudson Garage, Delmar Fisher
Service Station in the 1940s and Homer Lanning
Service Station. On the second floor of this
corner building was “IOOF Odd Fellows Hall.”
The Hall was later used by the Masons for
meetings. An old bandstand and fountain were
located in front of the Service Station.
Next-door is another private residence.
Former businesses that were located on this site
include Nub Osborn Woodshop, Dr. Kenneth
Andersen’s Office, Dr Bogle’s Office, Wilbur
& Sadie Eldred’s Restaurant, Earl Potter Bakery
and Pal Miller Clothing.
The Knights of Columbus own the next
building. The building is the former location of
Dufoe Construction
Offices, a Consignment
Clothing Shop, Dufoe
Hardware, Wyeth
Clover Farm Grocery,
Newman & Heefner
Grocery and Grubbs
and Strait Grocery.
Businesses,
Batcheler Midwest
Transport Inc. and
Jones & Coontz, are
co-located at 810 Main
Street. Steven Batcheler
owns the trucking and
brokerage business. He
has been in business since 1991, but located
to the current site in 2003. Former residents
of the building include Troup’s Top Shop,
Iowa State Bank, Whitmore’s Bakery,
Stanard’s Restaurant, and the Town and
Country Printing Company. The Center
Point Independent Newspaper was
printed in the basement of the building for
many years. The building was originally built
by the Linn County Savings Bank in 1906.
Across the alley was a building that
was torn down in 2003. Former occupants
of this site include a Tatoo Parlor,
Taken in 1954 is Lanning Garage with Masonic and Order of
Eastern Star organizations headquarters on second floor. On this
corner was in popular bandstand.
Main Street looking north in 2004.
L-r: Batchelor Midwest Transport and Jones & Coontz, Knights of
Columbus Hall and a residence in 2004.

83
Rosemary’s Used
Clothing, Ceramic’s
Shop, C & S
Laundromat, Jones
Laundromat & Card
Room, Hoglan
Grocery, Carver
Grocery, Frank
“Dude” Condon
Grocery and a Land
Office.
Proceeding
north on Main Street,
across the alley is
Neighbor ’s
Insurance. Eldon L.
Neighbor owns the
business, located at
820 Main Street. Melissa Snapp is an insurance agent and a second employee provides administrative
support. They have been in business for over three years, selling insurance. The building was the former site
of the Clothing Emporium that operated in 1877 with P. Kewley as owner. Later the US Post Office and then
Dennison Insurance operated from the location.
Next-door is Craig’s Appliance. Previously, Center Point Hatchery & Produce (1945-1961) and
Ike Street’s Grocery (1924-1942) operated from the site. Before that, Whit Lansdale’s Snow White Grocery
occupied the building.
Nelson’ s
Cabinets, operating in
Center Point since 1999,
completes the block. The
business, located at 826
Main Street, is owned and
operated by Don and Traci
Nelson. They currently
employ three people.
Nelson Cabinets sells
custom built kitchen and
bathroom cabinets and
corian and laminate
countertops.
Prior to the current
business, this site had a
lengthy history of housing
grocery stores. The site
housed grocery stores owned by Jesse Grubbs (1854) and J.M. Bartleson. Later Bill Lavelle’s Grocery
operated on the site. Around the turn of the century, Frank and Ida Grubbs ran the store as People’s Grocery
Store. Other storekeepers who were in grocery business at this location were Harley Woodley, Deke Graves,
Main Street in 2004. R-l: Knights of Columbus Hall, Batchelor Midwest Transport and Jones
& Coontz, Neighbor Insurance, Craigs Appliance, Nelson Cabinets and Haddys Haven.
Main Street in 1954. L-r: Corner Grocery, Center Point Produce and Hatchery, Dennison
Insurance, Barkers Recreation (former Condon Grocery) Primmer Barber, Clover Farm
(Horton & Wyeth), Dr. Kenneth Andersen.

84
Jack Sholes, Jon Sholes, and Teri and Rod Bishop. The town well was situated on the corner of this property
and residents could get a drink of water from the hand pump.
Turning the corner and heading east on Washington Street today you will see a two story brick building
that is a residence today. It formerly was Gene Divoky’s Center Point TV and Chas. Pollock Creamery. Also
in this vicinity was Farmers Telephone Co, Hattie Rogers-operator; Miller Billiard Hall, Menear Bros Central
Livery, and Joseph Poole, carriage Painter.
Crossing Washington Street at Water Street you will find an apartment building which was
formerly Dr. Gary Dundee and Dr. Phillip Andersen Dentist offices. The next business is Joe Cook
Electric which used to be Sam Shaffar horse barn dating back to the 1920s. The building probably
dates back to the 1880s as a livery stable for the Commercial Hotel.
On the northeast corner of Main and Washington Streets is Haddy’s Haven, owned by Tom Haddy
since 1978. Tom’s parents, Louis and Brodina Haddy, purchased the old Commercial Hotel in 1962. On July
15, 1968, the 114 year old structure burned. Haddys rebuilt the tavern. The hotel was run by Hattie Rogers
1919 – 1940s and originally included a restaurant on the lower level. The site is the location of the first hotel
built in Center Point in 1854. The hotel was originally known as the Washington House; the name was later
changed to Central House and then Commercial Hotel.
On Main Street between Washington and Green Street is the LJL Hall, which has operated from the
1980’s to present. The previous structure was the Masonic Temple that was used from 1955 to 1980’s.
Before the temple was built, the site served as the location for the Earl Hunter Diamond 760 Station and the
Go-Gas Station. Go- Gas was the first service station in Center Point, opening in the 1910s. Jim Romine
owned the station in 1920.
Next-door is the Veteran’s Memorial Pavilion. Previously, the site was used as gas stations.
Businesses included: Ed Craig’s Station, Roy Mollenhauer’s Station, and Hoff’s Skelly Station. Earlier,
Leslie Smiley’s Hardware Store was located on this site.
On the southeast corner of Green and Main Streets is a private residence. The site previously
housed the Ray Smith Shoe Shop.
NE corner of Main and Washington Streets in 2004. r-l: Haddy’s Haven, LJL Hall and Veterans Memorial Pavilion.

85
Current Businesses
Featured Businesses
Cook Electric began in February 1973, after local businessmen told Joe Cook that Center Point
could use another electrical contractor. Joe
moved to Center Point from West Branch,
Iowa. He purchased the barn at 319
Washington Street from the Haddy Estate to
use for his electrical shop.
In August 1973, Joe married Clara
Lindsley from Cedar Rapids. They
purchased the house at 603 Main Street and
have made it their home for over 30 years.
In October 1973, Clara quit her job in Cedar
Rapids, and started working with her
husband. Joe taught Clara how to be an
electrician. She worked as his assistant,
drilling holes, nailing up boxes, running wire,
and helping with other duties. The team developed a stride with Clara responsible for all the wiring on
the floor, including outlets, and Joe responsible for lighting and overhead wiring.
At one point when business was “booming”, the couple worked for eight different building
contractors. A typical day included working until 5 PM doing maintenance work, grain bins and home
additions. Then the team would load up and go rough in a new home. They would hang a string of
temporary lights, turn the radio on to country music and wire like crazy, sometimes working until 11
PM.
Joe has also been active volunteering for community projects including wiring the new football
field and baseball field lights. He’s also contributed a lot of volunteer labor wiring churches, LJL Hall
and Veteran’s Memorial Pavilion. When the Jaycees held the carnival at Fross Park for a few years, Joe
installed Mercury Vapor lights and temporary services with outlets. A few years after the Jaycees
moved the carnival back to Main Street, Joe convinced the Power Company to install permanent services
that could be used by the organization.
In 1999, the couple began to slow their pace. By 2003, they have reduced their projects to
maybe three new homes a year and small jobs.
--Joe & Clara Cook
Craig’s Appliance and Service, currently located at 822 Main Street, started in business under
the name of Craig’s Service. The location of this early business was on the east side of Main Street in
the 900 block. Edward Craig ran the business for many years. Craig’s Service included a Skelly gas
station in the front of the store. Edward remembered pumping gas throughout the gas rationing years of
WWII.
Craig’s Service also included a blacksmith and welding shop in the rear of the store. Edward
used the blacksmith’s forge to reset rims on wagon wheels. He also repaired welds on plowshares and
sharpened reel type lawn mowers. Cook Electric Building in 2004. Building used to be a livery

86
In 1954, Edward’s oldest son, David, along with his wife, Darlene, started selling International Harvester
refrigerators and Maytag wringer washers. Dave also installed a hoist so he could work on cars. They added
Lawn Boy mowers and Kelvinator appliances to their product line a few years later.
Built in 1910 by Whit Langsdale as a grocery store. The Post Office was located in the right side of this
building until 1941.
In 2004, this building is now occupied by Craig’s Appliance and Neighbor Insurance.

87
In 1961, they outgrew their premises and the business moved to 822 Main Street. The business name
was changed to Craig’s Appliance and Service. The building was purchased from Lawrence Benion who had
previously operated a hatchery and feed store from the site.
In the following years, Craig’s Appliance and Service added Philco-Ford major appliances, Sunbeam
small appliances, and electronics to their inventory. Dave also did a lot of installation of central air conditioning,
heating, wiring of houses, and repairing of refrigeration systems. After 50 years in business, Dave and Darlene
are still selling and delivering appliances.
Murdoch Funeral Home. The Kenneth Murdoch family of Marion, Iowa purchased the Sarchett
Funeral Home at 622 Main Street from Cato and Eletha Sarchett in 1949. Previously the building had been the
home of the Mutchler family.
Charles R. Oxley started as the funeral director on December 1, 1949. Charles was a licensed funeral
director and practiced there until his retirement in 1986. Chuck and his wife, Mary, raised two children,
Barbara and Bob, while living above the funeral home.
A major remodeling project was undertaken in 1955, which included the garage addition on the east
side of the original brick structure. Interior remodeling was also completed at this time.
Several couples have lived above the funeral home and helped out with funerals after Chuck’s retirement,
including Floyd and Opal Neagle and Dave and Gail Bowdish. In December of 1991, Jeff Rosauer took over
the duties as the funeral director.
A major interior remodeling was completed in 1992-1993. The chapel was remodeled and a family
lounge was added to the south side of the building. Jeff is still the resident funeral director today.
The Pizza Place. David and
Cindy Krumm opened “The Pizza Place”
in February 1982. It was located in the
old “This-L-Do Café/Gas Station”
building at the corner of Franklin and Iowa
streets. The Pizza Place, which was
located in the office of the gas station, was
carry-out pizza only. After three years,
the business moved to 817 Main Street.
This location had been the home of several
Mutchler dwelling in 1909, SE corner of Olive and Main.Murdoch Funeral Home in 2004
Pizza Place in 2004.

88
businesses over the years, one of which was “Jim & Barb’s”. Barb Ashlock owned the building, leasing to the
Krumms.
When the Pizza Place moved to the Main Street location, the menu was expanded to include sandwiches,
appetizers, pop, and beer. The business originally opened at 10:00 am, but soon moved to 9:00 am to
accommodate the coffee crowd. By this time, Cindy was taking care of the business and Dave had a “real
job.” This is when she got to know so many of the local people that are still friends and customers today. They
were a very loyal bunch. In that old building the air-conditioning didn’t always work, but there was an old
airplane propeller that was installed in the ceiling many, many years ago to help keep the customers cool!
After nine years, the Pizza Place moved again. The building on Franklin Street, which at one time
housed the famous “150 Gulf Truck Stop” operated by Dale and Hazel Matheny, was empty. Dave Farmer
purchased the building and added a room on the back of the restaurant. The restaurant area and kitchen were
remodeled. The counter where the coffee drinkers sat was saved and spruced up a bit. A customer who used
to sit there many years ago wondered why the stools were closer to the counter after the remodeling. (Perhaps
it was his added girth that made the stools closer?)
The Pizza Place has been at the present location for 10 years, and will probably stay there forever.
The people that Dave and Cindy have met through their business, whether they are customers or employees,
are very much appreciated.
--Cindy Krumm
The Telephone Company. The first Telephone Exchange in Center Point, Iowa, was built by the
Bishop Telephone Company in 1897 and owned by Fred C. Bishop. There has been continuous service in this
exchange ever since that date.
The Bishop Telephone Company became the Linn County Telephone and Telegraph Company in
1903. In 1905 this company was in turn acquired by the Cedar Rapids and Marion Telephone Company.
Finally in 1915, the Iowa Telephone Company, the predecessor of the Northwestern Bell Telephone Company,
purchased this exchange.
Mary Holman remembers that in the 1930s, each resident in town with a phone had a four-digit
number. When she wanted to talk, she called the office and gave the number or the person’s name and
the operator would “plug-in” the number, connecting the line and ringing the house. Mary’s ring was
two shorts and two longs. Since phone subscribers shared a line with several neighbors, sometimes
subscribers would pick up the phone to find others talking. People sharing the line were supposed to
hang up and wait for the line to clear, but Mary remembers some people who listened in on others’ conversations.
J. M. Bartelson Implement Store, built 1910.
l-r: Bartelson Implement, Bartelson office, Manny Cochran
Restaurant and Nels Lindquist Shoe Shop
Same scene in 300 block of State Street, south side. To-
day is telephone communications building.

89
Over a period of years many changes took place. In June, 1940, because of the growth of Center
Point, phones were converted from magneto to dial. Operators were no longer necessary with the arrival of
the dial phone. The change brought about by the dial phone included the construction of a new central office
building.
Because of further growth in 1948, an addition to the present office was constructed and additional
equipment was installed to meet new telephone needs.
In 1940, there were 365 stations including service station and Northwestern Bell Telephone Co.
telephones. This number increased to 482 in 1948 and to 565 in 1954 or a total of 200 stations in 14 years.
The number of local calls increased even more over this period. In 1940 there were 653 local calls a
day while in 1954 the number of daily calls had increased to 1,865.
A new communications center was completed in 1971 to house $500,000 worth of modern telephone
equipment. The equipment made it possible for local residents to direct dial their long distance calls. Touch-
tone calling also became a reality.
Other Businesses
Ace Concrete Cutting is owned by Ted Callahan since 2000. He cuts concrete with applications
in remodeling windows and doors and also road repair. He employs six people.
Advantage Auto, a Chevrolet dealership, is located at 4250 Grain Lane. The business is owned
by Rick Rojek, who acquired the dealership from Jim Arenson. Arenson had purchased the dealership in
1977 from Frank
Suchomel, a long-time
dealer who had operated
in Center Point for 25
years.
Dale and Lisa
Retzlaff own Apple
Creek Carpet Care,
located at 1305 Park
Avenue. They started the
business in March of 1993
in Walker. Since Lisa had
grown up in Center Point
they chose the name
Apple Creek after the small creek that runs through Center Point. They moved to Center Point in 1995, and
now run the business out of their home. They provide both commercial and residential carpet and furniture
cleaning in addition to cleaning air ducts. The small company employs mostly family members, with a few other
helpers. They service customers in a 60-mile radius of Center Point.
Apple Creek Realty is owned by Bob “Red” Engelken. He started the business, located on the
northwest corner of Franklin and Iowa streets, in 1988. Originally, the business was owned by Lorten Curtis
and was known as Curtis & Associates. Dick Ramsey and Dick Watterbeck worked for the company selling
real estate. Bob Engelken has also operated the Insurance Corner from the same location since 1981.
Butterfield Hauling is owned and operated by Greg Butterfield. He has been offering dump truck
and excavation services since 1998.
Carson Grain, owned by Jay Carson, opened for business in 1996. There are three full time employees
working at the business located on Central Avenue. Carson Grain sells pet food, birdseed, grain, water
Advantage Auto in 2004.

90
softener salt and livestock feed. They also sell some livestock equipment. The former occupant was L.J.
Dennis and Sons.
Casey’s General Store,
located at 207 Franklin Street, is
owned by Casey’s General Stores,
Inc. and is operated by Brian
Maloney. Casey’s store was built
on an open lot, twenty-six years
ago. The store originally offered gas
and groceries for sale. The gas sold
for 56.9 cents a gallon when the store
first opened. Later, coffee and
donuts that were baked at the store
were added to the menu. After
remodeling, fresh baked pizzas were
also offered. The store employs
eleven part time and full time employees.
The Center Point Bank & Trust began doing business as Iowa State Bank & Trust, in 1964. John
Lessenhop, who also owned the
Walker State Bank, applied for and
was granted a charter to open the
bank. The bank opened for
business at 810 Main Street.
In 1980, William R.
Bernau, a prior attorney for the City
of Center Point, purchased the
bank. The bank built a new building
and relocated to 720 Main Street
in July of 1981. In November of
1996, the bank changed its name
to Center Point Bank & Trust to
become more identifiable with the
community it serves. In October of 2003, the bank built a new, larger building at 901 Bank Court, to
accommodate the growing demands of the community.
Dr. Kelly T. and Kimberly Bonar own Center Point Chiropractic, located at 208 Franklin Street.
This family chiropractic care clinic has been in business for thirteen years and has two employees. Before it
was a chiropractic clinic, this building
contained Vern Oliphant Real Estate. Dr.
Bonar is a 1983 graduate of Center Point
High School, and he has two children, Matt,
a freshman, and Megan, a seventh grader at
CPU.
Center Point Family Dentistry is
owned by Dr. Philip N. Andersen and
operated by Dr. Andersen and Dr. Terra K.
Hickey (an associate since 2000). Dr.
Andersen has been in business 22 years and
Center Point Chiropractic Clinic in 2004.
Center Point Bank & Trust in 2004.
Casey’s General Store in 2004.

91
his clinic provides general family dentistry. Currently there are eleven people employed. Dr Andersen was
associated with Dr. Gary Dundee for the first 11 years of his practice.
Dr. Kenneth Andersen had recruited Dr. Dundee to come to Center Point in 1963. Dr. Dundee
practiced in the basement of Dr. Kenneth Andersen’s medical office at 806 Summit Street until 1973, when he
built a new dental office at 329 Washington Street. In 1982, Dr. Philip Andersen joined Dr. Dundee’s
practice. Dr. Dundee retired in 1993. The office was relocated to 907 Bank Court on October 1, 2002.
The Center Point Family Pharmacy is located in the north end of the Medical Building at 900 Bank
Court. Pharmacist Toby Kramer is a
Center Point graduate.
The Center Point Family Table,
located at 427 Franklin Street, is owned
and operated by Frank and Keri Ajuloski.
The restaurant is open every day of the
week except Monday, serving food and
beverages. They typically employ between
ten to fifteen people. They opened three
years ago taking over Susie’s Family
Restaurant.
Michael Liercke owns Center
Point Farm and Auto, Inc., located at
520 East Washington Street. He has been
in business for 16 years, selling auto parts.
Two people are employed at the store. The
building formerly housed a veterinary clinic
and was also used to stable horses. In the
summer of 2004 they will be moving to a
new, larger building on Lewis Access Road
that will also be selling hardware.
Center Point Insurance Agency,
located at 110 Franklin Street is owned and
operated by Ted Rogers and Wil Falconer. They have been in business for six years, selling property, casualty,
and life insurance.
The business was originally started in 1960 under the name of Kennedy Insurance. It was located at
1419 Franklin Street. In 1972 the business was renamed Kennedy-Cady Insurance. Ted Rogers became a
partner in 1981. Ted Rogers and Wil Falconer became partners in 1999, changed the company name and
moved to the current location.
Center Point Laundromat is owned
by Steve Davis and is located at 310 State
Street. The business, operating since 2002,
includes seven apartments as well as the
Laundromat.
Steve Davis is the owner of Center
Point Pharmacy, located at 822 Franklin
Street. Steve has been in business for eleven
years; before that he had a pharmacy in Walker
for eight years. He sells prescription and non-
prescription drugs, gifts, and greeting cards. He
Center Point Pharmacy in 2004.
New store being constructed for Center Point Farm and Auto in 2004.

92
employs three people. Before it was a pharmacy, the building housed an ice cream shop for a brief time.
Previously, several owners operated a Standard gas station. Before the days of paperboys, people would
pick up their Cedar Rapids Gazette’s from
the station.
Center Point Physical Therapy
is located at 110 Franklin Street, Suite 2.
Staci Whitson has provided physical
therapy to people of all ages for the past
four years. She currently employs two
people.
The Center Point Veterinary
Clinic, located at 93 Franklin Street, is
owned and operated by C. W. (Charles)
Troup. The business
celebrated its 36
th
anniversary on
May 4, 2004.
Dr. Troup opened his business in 1969.
Dr. Dean Barnett joined his practice in
1970. He stayed only one year and Dr.
R. W. Fanton joined the business. Dr.
Fanton stayed a very short time. Dr. Troup
has operated the business by himself since
1971.
Dr. Troup has three full time
employees and two part time employees.
He still makes “house calls”, as well as
providing service for small animals in the
office. Medicine and food for animals is
available for purchase from the office.
Larry Barker and Garth Horning
are co-owners of Complete Automotive,
located at 250 Franklin Street. They have
been in business for eighteen years and
employ six people. They specialize in auto
body collision repair.
The Corner Store is located at
4200 Lewis Access Road. Jon and Donna
Sholes own the business. The couple has
been involved in retail sales for more than
20 years. They sell gas and groceries,
operate a deli, rent movies, and operate a
car wash. The Corner Store employs eleven
people. The business was named after the
grocery store owned by Jon’s father, Jack
Sholes.
Jack lived with his grandparents in
Center Point. While in high school, he
Complete Automotive in 2004.
The Corner Store in 2004.
Center Point Veterinary Clinic in 2004.

93
worked for Deke Graves Grocery, located on the southeast corner of Main and Washington streets. Local
residents referred to the many grocery stores that were located on the site as the “Corner Store.” In 1946,
Jack and his wife Roberta purchased the store. As the business grew, he enlarged the store and employed his
sons. Eventually Jon took over the management. Later Jon sold the store and then built the convenience store
on the highway.
Counter-Fitters, Inc. is owned by Craig DeVries, Mike DeVries, Robert DeVries, and Wendy
VanFossen. The business started in Marion in May of 1979. The business was relocated to 600 Ford Lane
in Center Point in 1999. They employ eight people. They provide counter top fabrication and installation,
cabinet sales and installation, and build custom cabinetry.
Dick and Connie
Emery own Emery Heating and
Cooling. The business located at
4202 Lewis Access Rd., was opened
on July 12, 1994. They provide
heating and air conditioning equipment
and water heaters. The business began
in an empty pole barn with dirt floors
before the Emery’s remodeled in 1999
to make it a viable structure. They
employ twelve people and are
committed to hiring as many local
people as possible to keep people from
moving to the metro areas.
John and Marsha Ferring own
Ferring Homes Corp., located at
4299 Lewis Access Rd. The business
opened in 1996 offering sales of
manufactured and modular homes and
general contracting.
Bill Wilmert purchased Food
Pride on May 2, 2004. Bill and his
wife, Marilyn, will run the store, along
with their daughters, Autumn and Erica.
Bill has over thirty years of experience
in the grocery business. Rod and Teri
Bishop previously owned the store.
They purchased the grocery store,
located at 826 Main Street, from Jon
Sholes in 1994. The Bishops
relocated the business to a new and
larger store at 800 Ford Lane.
Business had tripled since the move.
Brett Wilson and Jesse
Newman are the owners of Future
Line LLC. The business, located at
701 Ford Lane, was started in 1995. Today they employ seven people, installing heavy truck equipment.
Ferring Homes Corp. in 2004.
Emery Heating and Cooling in 2004.
Food Pride in 2004.

94
Kara Kirk is the owner and
operator of Health and Beauty
Studio, located at 600 Franklin Street.
She has been in business for six years
and employs six people. She provides
services and products for hair, nails,
and tanning.
Heins Tire and Auto and
Gary D. Heins Trucking Inc. are
both located at 911 East Washington.
Both businesses are owned by Gary
D. Heins and operated by Chad
Statton. The tire business has been operating for five years, repairing tires and offering new sales. Chad also
keeps busy with automobile and
semi-tractor and trailer repair. The
trucking business has been active
for thirty-five years. The business
employs fifteen people. The site
was formerly part of the L. J.
Dennis Elevator.
The Hiway Barber Shop,
located at 816 Franklin Street, is
owned and operated by Gary D.
Heins. Gary has been in business
for 41 years. He cuts hair by
appointment and sells related
products. His barbershop is the
last of at least four or five
barbershops that operated in
Center Point.
Interstate Grain is owned by
Batchelor Enterprises, Inc., and is operated
by Craig Batchelor. They sell feed and grain.
They have been in business for 23 years and
employ four full time employees. The
business is located at 4207 Grain Lane.
JR Storage built the business’s first
rental storage units in 1994. Carl and Jan
Railsback own the business, located at 4386
Lewis Access Road. A number of years ago,
a gas station was located on the site.
Joensy’s Restaurant, located at
220 Franklin Street, is owned by Doug Joens.
He has been in business since 1992. He
employs 22 full and part-time people.
Joensy’s is a quick service, family oriented
Health and Beauty Studio in 2004.
Hiway Barber Shop in 2004.
Interstate Grain in 2004.

95
restaurant, famous for their pork tenderloins. A
restaurant, video store, and the Daisy Maid
drive-in previously operated on the site.
Jones Monument Company, located
at 4189 Central City Road, is owned and
operated by James (Jim) and Loretta Jones. Jim
has been in business for thirty-five years, selling
granite monuments and bronze markers. He also
sets many stones at the Center Point cemetery.
Jim recently acquired a new laser etching
technology for use on black granite. The
business was formerly known as Kidd
Monument Company when owned by Loretta’s
grandfather.
Junge Chrysler Dodge, located at 4204 Lewis Access Rd., sells new and used Dodge and Chrysler
products. They also have an extensive service department. They have been in business for three years and
employ ten people. Hendryx Motor previously
operated on the site.
Junge Ford, located at 1001 Ford
Lane, was established in 1990. The building
was built on farm ground. The owners include
a father and son team, Gary and Jason Junge.
The business employs thirty-six full time and
five part time people. They sell new and used
cars and also boast a comprehensive service
department.
Keystone Savings Bank is located
at 807 Rosedale Drive. The bank opened a
branch office in Center Point in 2004 and
employs three people.
Klima Drainage & Land
Improvement, located at 4994 Fairchild
Rd., is owned by Doug Klima. It is a family
business that has been operating for thirty
years. They install plastic drainage tile in farm
fields and also do directional boring and backhoe and dump truck work. Doug’s grandfather, Ed Klima, lived
in rural Center Point and began laying clay tile in fields. He dug and laid 100 feet of clay tiles by hand per day,
2 spades deep. Marvin (Mike) Klima, Doug’s dad, started Klima & Sons in 1961. His wife Maudie and their
ten children were all involved in the business in one way or another. Doug bought into the business in the
1970s. Today Doug’s son Michael Klima runs a laser grade controlled plow which installs 40,000 feet of
plastic tile a day. They employ 5 full-time employees.
Don Labs originally owned Labs Construction. He began the business in 1960 while he was working
nights at Collins Radio. In 1964 he quit his night job and began operating his construction business full time.
The business focused on new home construction and also did some commercial work. Between 1990 and
Joensy’s Restaurant in 2004.
Junge Chrysler Dodge in 2004.
Junge Ford in 2004.

96
2000, he developed Cedar Heights, which
consisted of 29 one-acre lots. The
development is located southwest of
Center Point along the river. In 2000 he
turned the business over to his two sons,
Rob and Doug, who are currently building
in the Terrace Hills and Franklin Heights
additions.
Marv Lamphier owns Lamphier
& Sons Construction. He began his
business in 1991. He is currently building
new homes in the Rich addition in Urbana.
Kim Hard owns and operates the Little People Day Care and Learning Center, Inc., located at
702 Main Street. She has eight employees that help teach preschool and provide regular day care. Her
business opened in October 2003.
Roger Thomas is the owner/operator of Main Street Truck and Auto Repair. He has been in
business for eight years, repairing cars and trucks. The building previously housed a shop belonging to his
father, Fred Thomas. The business is located at 1141 Main Street.
McKinstry’s Small Engine, located at 209 Franklin Street, is owned by Jonnie S. McKinstry and is
operated by Brian Ondler. The business
has operated for seven years and employs
four people. They sell and service all
makes of lawn and garden tractors, but
specialize in Cub Cadet, Troy-built,
White, Johnson, and MTD brands. Other
services provided include chain
sharpening and refilling L. P. tanks.
MercyCare Center Point is
owned by Mercy Physician Services and
operated by Dr. John E. Lancaster, Jr. and
Dr. Paul C. Thomas. The family practice
medical clinic has been open since 1996
and provides all aspects of medical care
for all members of a family. The also have
x-ray equipment available on site. They currently employ ten people.
Dr. Kenneth N. Andersen started the practice in 1951. He operated the practice, first located on
Main Street and then located on Summit St., until 1996 when he sold it to Mercy Physician Services. In 1998
a new clinic building was built at 900 Bank Court. Dr. John Lancaster joined Dr. Andersen in the practice in
December of 1996. Dr. Andersen retired in August of 2001. Dr. Paul Thomas joined Dr. Lancaster in
October of 2001.
Five acres of peonies and more than four hundred varieties of peonies contribute to a Memorial Day
tradition at the Peony Garden. Starting in 1962, Elvin Mackerman decided to open his 1,250 square foot
plot of peonies to the public for the Memorial Day weekend. Elvin let visitors cut his peonies to place on loved
one’s graves at no charge. Elvin and his wife, Ruth Whetstone, continued to add varieties of peonies. By 1997,
the garden covered three acres and Elvin was considering retirement.
McKinstry’s Small Engine in 2004.
Labs Construction in 2004.

97
Ruth’s son, Dan Whetstone, moved from Florida to learn the business. Dan dug two more acres and
expanded the business beyond the state borders with the help of an Internet catalog. Orders come from all
over, including a large order from a Dutch company. Today, the total number of peonies is more than 20,000.
Elias G. and Susie Nassif own the Point Inn Motel, located at 421 Franklin Street. They have been
in business for ten years, employing three people. The building was built in 1962 as Vi-Da-Lee Motel, owned
by Vi and Lee Langguth. The north end of the building previously housed a TV Shop and a Sewing Shop.
The Premiere Salon Studio is located at 110 Franklin Street. The studio is owned by Robyn Crandall
and operated by Tara Moore and Shawnee Frambach. It has been open for four years, giving jobs to three
stylists. The Studio also offers salon products for sale. Stephanie’s Styling Point was formally located in the
building.
Quagco Equipment is located
at 550 Ford Lane. Robert Pepmeyer,
the owner, relocated from Cedar Rapids
to a new building in Center Point in
1998. He employs three people, and
they sell and service automotive
equipment.
Rhinehart’s Texaco has been
operating for fifteen years. Kevin
Rhinehart owns and operates the
business with the help of three
employees. Located at 903 Franklin
Street, the station sells gas, oil, tires,
diesel fuel, and kerosene. Kevin’s
father, William, owned the station
Businesses at 110 Franklin Street in 2004. l-r: Center Point Insurance, Center Point Physical Therapy, Dufoe Construc-
tion and Premiere Beauty Salon Studio.
Quagco Equipment in 2004.

98
before Kevin took over the business. Harry
Brookman originally operated a Skelly Gas Station
from the site.
Rolling Acres Golf Course. The headlines
in the July 24, 1963
The Center Point Times
newspaper proclaimed that a new golf course
would open in Center Point. The subsequent
article included the following information. “Mr. and
Mrs. Doyle Benson of Center Point will open a
new, 9-hole golf course on their property 1½ miles
north of Center Point on the Cemetery Road. The
course will be known as the Rolling Acres Country
Club and is scheduled to open next June 1, depending on the weather next
spring. Construction has already begun on the picturesque course, which will
cover approximately 40 acres. It will be a 2,865-yard, par 36 course. They
plan a farm sale in August to sell their farming equipment and cattle. The
machine shed and house are the only buildings to be kept.”
That year, Doyle and Vera worked very hard preparing the course.
The course opened that first summer of 1963 with a driving range. Knowing
nothing about golf course maintenance, but learning while doing, they took on
the task. They moved rocks, planted trees, constantly mowed, and kept the
grass on the greens smooth and free of blight and diseases. Al Buck, a high
school student, provided assistance. The owners admitted to some mistakes
including not planting enough trees and not making the clubhouse large enough.
The original clubhouse measured 24x30. In spring of 1964, the course officially
opened. Their business grew mainly from word-of-mouth advertising. Season
passes were available at $75 for a single and $150 for a family.
Rolling Acres clubhouse in 2004.
Rhinehart’s Texaco in 2004.
Doyle Benson in 1967 during the
construction of the golf course.

99
Schnappers in 2004.
Windmill Lanscape & Garden Center in 2004.
In 1969, the Bensons sold the golf course to Alfie and Linda Stark. The Stark family, living in the
house on the course, operated and maintained the course themselves. Spencer and Pat Burrell joined them in
ownership in 1972.
In 1974, a group of 16 Center Point area citizens joined a corporation and took over management of
the course. Rolling Acres today hosts many tournaments and a Women and Men’s league once a week. They
offer open golfing and a wide variety of food and beverages at the clubhouse.
Scheeler Auctions is an auction business owned by Dan and Teresa Scheeler since 2002. They
purchased the business from Kenny and Phyliss Jones who had been auctioneering in the area since 1984.
They do estate, household, farm and real estate auctions.
Schnappers is located
on the southwest corner of
Franklin and Iowa streets. Mike
and Candance Schnell have
owned the tavern since 2000.
The business is also known for its
broasted chicken. They
purchased the business from Jerry
Merritt.
Sandy Sloan is the
owner/operator of Sloan
Photography. Sandy opened the
business twelve years ago in the
basement of their previous home.
She has since moved her home and studio to 1026 First Street East. Sandy takes spot photos as well as
portraits. She also offers matting and framing to her customers. Sloan Photography employs two part time
staff.
Alfred and Gerald
Wall started Wall Bros.
Plastering in 1958. Their
specialty is installing lathe,
plaster and stucco
products. Ninety percent
of their work is residential.
Windmill
Landscape & Garden
Center is owned by
DeWayne and Gloria
Janey. The business is
located at 520 Franklin
Street. DeWayne started
laying sod for Jerry’s Homes in Cedar Rapids; later he expanded his business to include landscaping. He
purchased the nursery in 1997. He employs ten people. The business includes a complete garden center.
DeWayne also installs retaining walls and irrigation systems.
Willard Wright is the owner of Wrightway Sales, operating since 1981. The business, located at
4055 Iowa Road, sells advertising specialties, trophies, and awards. He employs three people.

100
Keystone Bank on Lewis Access Road under con-
struction in 2004.
Klouda’s Garden on Grubbs Street in 2004.
Counterfitters, Inc. on Ford Lane, 2004.Old This ‘L Do/DX Truck Stop buildings on Franklin and
Iowa. In 2004 these buildings have been empty for several
years.
Center Point Car Wash on south end of Franklin, 2004.Computer Software Development, Inc. located in old
doctor office on Summit Street, 2004.

101
Organizations
4-H Clubs
The Washington Busy Beavers 4-H club was established in 1948 with seven members. This club
has served young people in Washington Township and surrounding areas and is still active today. There
have been many dedicated volunteers over the past fifty-six years that have led this club including: Mr.
Everett Squires, Mr. Kenneth Squires, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Squires, Mrs. Glenys Fox, Mr. Kenny Jones,
and Mrs. Barb Sieck. Current leaders are Mrs. Virginia Luchauer and Mrs. Beth Costigan.
This club has helped many youth, whether they lived on farms, acreages, or in town. The group
continues to perform many community service projects around the Center Point area. The basic 4-H
philosophy, unchanged since 1903, involves teaching leadership, community involvement, public
speaking, developing personal goals, and animal husbandry skills. The current membership is 30
members. The group continues to meet once per month.
Another 4-H Club, the Willing Workers, was
organized on June 10,1943, at the home of Mrs.
Phillip Hand. There were twelve female members
present at the first meeting. One member, Betty
Stephenson, was chosen to go to England and Wales
as part of the International Farm Youth Exchange
Program in 1952. This group is no longer active.
The Live Wire Lassies was an active girls’ 4-
H Club between the 1950s and 1980s. Their three
main project areas included home furnishings,
cooking and clothing. Projects were completed for
display at the Linn County Fair in Central City, where
blue, red and white ribbons were awarded. Two
members were county officers. Ann Calvin was a
county vice president and was also the first president
of the county leadership club. Sue Calvin was a
county president. The Live Wire Lassies disbanded
and joined the boys’ club, the Washington Busy
Beavers.
The Alert Homemaker’s Club-“A Little of This and That”
The Club started in 1937 with a group of twelve country ladies who were neighbors. The
original purpose of the group was to provide an opportunity for members to socialize and develop
Willing Workers sextet at Rally Day in 1954. l-r: Carol
Goodlove, Ann Calvin, Romona Cornett, Jalaa Domer,
Phyllis Mollenhauer, Judy Elay.

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friendships. Charter members include: Bessie Back, Aimee Waterbury, Joanna Craig, Fannie Wright,
Joanna Hess, Eugenia McGinnis, Thelma Wathen, Florence Wathen, Lillie Neffinger, Alice Brockschink,
Katie Horak, and Flavia Benion.
The group met monthly, rotating the location of the meetings between members’ homes.
Originally, the “Alert Garden Club” met for six months of the year and the “Alert Thimble Club” met
for the rest of the year. The garden club concentrated on gardening and flowers. The sewing club
would quilt or mend for the woman who hosted the meeting that month. In 1958, the members voted to
change the club’s name to the Alert Homemaker’s Club.
Membership has ranged from twelve to twenty-three members. When the group became too
large for members’ homes, meetings were held in the Center Point Community Room. In 1996, meetings
were moved to Susie’s Restaurant and then the Family Table Restaurant.
The Club makes annual contributions to the Center Point Ambulance and Fire Department,
Camp Courageous, CPU Post Prom Party and numerous other benefits. The Club also sponsors a
Thanksgiving Dinner Project for two local families.
Members raise money to support these groups and activities through auctions and annual dues.
The Club creates beautiful quilts and then holds drawings to determine the lucky winners. Two club
members won the drawings in 1953 and 1981. The prizes were an appliquéd Sun Bonnet Girl quilt and
an appliquéd Butterfly quilt. These quilts have become heirlooms that have passed from the original
winners to family members that have subsequently joined the club.
Members have also used their sewing skills to contribute to the community and their families.
For example, the group helped Schick Hospital tear rags for rugs. They have also sewn lap robes and
bibs for nursing homes. And if you’re lucky enough to be related to a member, you could expect to
receive embroidered kitchen towels as a wedding gift from the group.
But the Club hasn’t lost focus of their original intent to gather for socialization. Annual club
events include a Valentine exchange, a Mother’s Day luncheon, an annual “picnic” which has evolved
into an air-conditioned luncheon, a bus or car trip in September, and a Christmas potluck dinner.
--Connie Tisl
American Legion, Auxiliary and Junior Auxiliary
Shortly after World War I, returning
Veterans organized the American Legion Post,
Dye Benion Unit 297. Dye and Benion were two
Center Point heroes who lost their lives in the War.
In 1953, membership totaled 76 veterans. The
women organized the American Legion Auxiliary
on February 1, 1922, with 47 members on the
Charter. Members were mothers, wives, sisters
and daughters of the legionnaires or wives of men
who died in the war. The Auxiliary also included
women who were war veterans. In 1953, the
Auxiliary had 99 members.
The Legion and Auxiliary co-located with the Lions and Jaycees in the former Masonic Lodge
on Main Street, between Washington and Green streets, in 1980. Previously, the organizations were
housed on the west side of Main Street, between Olive and State streets in a building that was demolished
in late 1980s.
American Legion Hall located north of Golden Age Housing
apartments on Main Street. Demolished late 1980s.

103
The Legion and the Auxiliary meet on the first Monday of the month. A joint potluck is held,
followed by meetings. Members are also active in various community events. They carry flags in
parades and at all home football games. The Legion also plans the ceremony at the cemetery on Memorial
Day.
The Legion and the Auxiliary have various fundraisers including trap shoots, dances, card parties
and pancake breakfasts the third Sunday of the month from September to March. Early fundraisers
included sponsoring the local horse show each year. Proceeds from the fundraisers are used to sponsor
boys and girls who want to participate in the State Camp. In 2003, the organizations sent nine boys to
Boys’ State and four girls to Girls’ State. Additionally, silent auctions have been held since 1977 in the
month of January. Proceeds go to stock the Veteran’s Hospital supply shelf. The Legion and the
Auxiliary also give donations to the baseball team.
Daphne Craig Miller remembers being involved in Junior Auxiliary, a youth group, in the early
to mid sixties. The group made nut cups or other favors from construction paper, pipe cleaners or crepe
paper for the people in Benion’s Nursing home and for the Veterans in the VA hospital in Iowa City.
The group would also perform skits and sing songs for the veterans at the VA hospital and for people
residing in the County Home. At the end of the performance, they would sometimes hand out fruit.
The Junior Auxiliary would have bake sales, help at the annual Fish Fry, put American Flags on the
graves of Veterans and sell Poppies for Memorial Day.
The Legion and Auxiliary actively promote patriotism. In 1964, flag holders were purchased
for city’s light poles so flags could be raised on Memorial Day. The Auxiliary recognizes students’
patriotism by selecting an eighth grade student who excels in history to receive an award. Jon Sholes
was one of the first students to receive the award. Flag etiquette books have also been distributed to
children.
--Nancy Krapfl
Betty’s Grove Homemaker Club
The Betty’s Grove Homemaker’s Club is a neighborhood club of country ladies. Members do
not know when the club started, but it is known that the club was meeting in the 1940’s. The group was
composed of women who lived in the area surrounding Betty’s Grove, which is located northeast of
Center Point. Some women had Walker addresses, as some members do today. In the early days of the
club, there was a County Extension Service lesson that was given by members who had taken a class
before they presented it to the club. Examples of early lessons include “Make it with Lard” and “Altering
Patterns.”
Today, members meet the third Wednesday of the month, just as the oldest records show that
members did in the past. They meet at 1:30 in member’s homes, with the option of having the meeting
at Center Point Family Table Restaurant. Members do not meet during the busy season of summer.
The group elects a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. After a business meeting, there is
a program of choice. Examples include playing bingo, watching a DVD that highlights a trip, or
participating in quizzes. The hostess then serves lunch and members enjoy visiting with their neighbors!
Funds are raised by collection of dues and by an annual fall auction. The club makes annual
donations to the Center Point Fire and Ambulance Departments, Walker Fire Department, and Center
Point-Urbana and North Linn Post Prom Party. Other special donations to organizations and people in
need have been awarded, including cookie and fruit plates that have been given to the elderly and ill.
The club takes an annual club trip in the spring. In 2003, the club had lunch at Homestead
Kitchen and attended the play, “Steel Magnolias”, at the Old Creamery Theatre in Amana. Christmas
is celebrated by meeting at a Cedar Rapids restaurant for lunch and a small gift exchange is held.

104
One of the members, Bertha Oliphant, has been a member of the club since 1950. Current
membership includes twelve people.
--Marilyn Lala
Center Point Federated Garden Club
The Center Point Federated
Garden Club was established
April 15, 1951, with a
membership of thirty. The
garden club originated after
Methodist Pastor Russell and
Mrs. Ruby Schmitz moved to
Center Point. Ruby organized the
first monthly garden club
meeting.  The members met in
homes and enjoyed activities
such as guest speakers, flower
garden tours, decorating a
seasonal wreath at the
bank, potlucks and a Christmas
party.  Springtime trips were
made to Pella, Iowa, to enjoy the Pella Tulip Festival.  A standard flower show was organized and
garden club members and members of the community brought horticultural specimens from their gardens
to be judged for competition. A lot of time and planning took place when a flower show was held.
   Presently, the Center Point Federated Garden Club has fourteen active members and five honorary
members. Current charter members include: Ruth Butterfield, Erma Busenbark, and Mary Holman.  The
Club is always searching for new members to join and share their gardening knowledge.
         The Center Point Garden Club meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. during the
winter months and in the morning during summer months. The summer meetings include visits to local
flower gardens.
           The Club holds an annual plant sale in Center Point during the month of May and members look
forward to sharing plants.  Other activities include: compiling scrapbooks of the past fifty-three years’
history of the club; making stepping stones; maintaining the planters on Main Street in Center
Point; listening to presentations on gardening, landscaping, birds and forms of garden art; touring flower
gardens in Center Point and other local communities; a summer salad luncheon; and an annual Christmas
Party.
         The Center Point Federated Garden Club annually contributes money to the Federated Garden
Club of Iowa, National Council of State Garden Clubs, Inc., ISU Horticulture and Landscape
scholarships, the Blue Star Marker and to a Center Point-Urbana high school student entering the
horticultural field after graduation.
        Two of the Center Point Garden Club members, Ken Lafferty and Karmin Mullins, are Linn
County Master Gardeners with the ISU Extension Service. Another member, Janice Schwach, is a
Linn County Master Composter.
The club members choose either an annual or perennial for their yearly club flower.    The choice
for 2004 is the Thumbelina Zinnia.   Members are encouraged to plant the club flower for that year.
Garden Club members l-r: Iva Squires, Kay Davidson, Mary Cook, Ruth
Butterfield, Marilyn DeMarah, Dorothy Hepker, Ken Lafferty, Florence Henderson,
Betty Alden, Stephanie and Kevin Laska. Photo taken around 2000.

105
Most importantly, members have fun and enjoy each other’s company and love of gardening.
Many new ideas are formulated and shared.  The Center Point Garden Club motto is “Flowers, Fun
and Friendship.”   Another motto recited by members is “Gardening is good for your SOIL and good
for your SOUL.”
--Karmin Mullins
The Center Point Community Historical Society
The Historical Society was organized in
1976. Immediate plans called for the
establishment of a museum. The organization
acquired the Bliss Building, built in 1878, and
located on the northwest corner of Main and
Washington streets. Historical grants and cash
donations from the townspeople helped with the
expenses. After volunteers completed a great
deal of restoration, the museum was ready for
artifacts. Books, quilts, clothes, tools and
pictures were collected.
Eldon Dennison had a huge collection of
historical photographs, many from Fairbanks
Studio. The Historical Society borrowed the
pictures and had negatives made. These
negatives are now stored in a safety deposit box.
Eventually the Bliss Building required
major repairs. The floor would no longer
support the weight of the displays, so the building was sold. In 1996, the Historical Society entered in
an agreement to occupy the south portion of
the old WCF&N Depot. A major fund
raising campaign was launched to raise funds
to renovate the space. The campaign was
successful and the official opening of the
new museum was in 2000. Recently, Linn
County Conservation has given permission
for the Depot Museum to expand its space
to include the center section of the building.
The Depot Museum is typically open to the
public from Memorial Day to Labor Day on
Sundays from 1-4.
The Historical Society maintains the
Strait Log Cabin today located at the edge
of Wakema Park. The cabin was originally
located four miles south of Center Point, on
the northeast bank of the Cedar River. The
16 X 16 cabin is believed to be one of the first cabins built in Linn County in the early 1850s. Jacob
Floyd who bought land along the Cedar River in 1853 may have been responsible for the construction
of the cabin. Fay and Lila Strait donated the cabin to the town through the Center Point bicentennial
1976 Members honored with Life-Time Memberships for
work on the log cabin and museum projects. l-r: Harry
Brookman, Everett Williams, Vernon Dennison, Harold
Calvin, Roy Ferguson, Howard Holman. President Carole
Wermager presenting the honor.
1850s Strait log cabin relocated next to Wakema Park.

106
Committee in 1975. Fay’s great-grandfather lived in the cabin in the late 1800s. Fay’s parents, Ben
and Ella Strait, also lived there from 1913 to 1965 raising four children. Ella’s parents, Peter and Anna
Hansen, inhabited the cabin prior to that in 1902. The Straits were short people as the door measured
5’ 6 “ tall and the interior was originally 5’ 9” floor to ceiling. The children always remember Ella
wanting a ordinary frame farmhouse, but everytime there was extra money, Ben put it into barns. In
1976, the cabin was moved to a lot between Water Street and Wakema Park. Local nurserymen, Roy
and Albert Ferguson, dismantled the cabin and numbered the logs so it could be rebuilt. Roy Ferguson
and Harold Calvin reassembled the cabin to its original form. It is furnished with articles consistent
with the period that were donated by members of the community. The cabin is a picture of contentment
today in the park and holds over 100 years of pioneer memories.
The Historical Society also maintains the school museum, located in the 1903 section of the
Center Point School. The space for the museum display was made possible with the opening of the
new Elementary School. The Society displays school-related artifacts including class photographs,
annuals, athletic and scholastic trophies, maps, textbooks, and school furniture.
The Historical Society holds monthly meetings, organizes interesting programs and events for
members and maintains the museum properties and collections.
Green’s Grove Sewing Circle
Twelve women formed the Green’s Grove Sewing Circle in 1915. The women were from the
farming area south of Center Point known as Green’s Grove. The ladies would take turns hosting on
the first Thursday of the month. Activities were planned throughout the day to keep members busy
from 9 AM to 3 PM. The hostess would decide what project would be tackled that meeting. Things
such as quilting, piecing blocks, tying comforters, sewing carpet rags, hemming dish towels, and patching
overalls were just a few of the ways they spent the morning.
Some of the quilts made by the club were used to help victims that had a fire or were in a
tornado. Friendship quilts were also made. Each member would make a block to contribute to the quilt.
Eventually, each member would receive a completed quilt. Sometimes, a quilt was made and chances
to win the quilt were sold so the club could earn money to purchase supplies and other items.
Members keep busy with many projects including cutting and sewing blocks to make bed size
quilts, lap robes or children’s quilts, bibs and small personal baggies. These items are donated to
veterans, victims of home fires, Camp Courageous, nursing homes, local police departments, which
distribute items to children involved in accidents, and Madge Phillips. Members socialize while they
work. Sometimes the ladies admit they have a lot of fun just giving someone a bad time or doing
something special for someone.
Dinner is served during the meeting. The menu includes a heavy hot meal such as homemade
noodles, which is also served to the men and children of the members. Eventually, the dinner evolved
into a potluck. A business meeting follows the dinner and every meeting is opened by reading scripture
verses. This tradition of reading scripture verses after lunch still endures today.
An annual picnic replaced the usual meeting in August. The women, men and children would
gather at the District No. 9 schoolhouse for a day of fun. In later years, the picnic was held at Daniel
Park’s Pavilion in Cedar Rapids, IA. Recently, the annual picnic has been changed to an annual outing
such as visiting a museum or historical place or enjoying a play at the Amanas. During the annual
Christmas party, new officers are elected, “secret sisters” for the prior year are revealed, and drawings
for a new “secret sister” are completed.

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There were about 40 members in 1953 but only about 24 attended meetings at any one time.
The ages of the members ranged from twenty through ninety. At the club’s 75
th
anniversary celebration
in 1960, membership had grown to 128 women.
In May 2004 the Green’s Grove Sewing Circle will be celebrating 89 years. Membership is
smaller, about 18 members, and ages have increased (ranging from 50 to 97).
--Carol Herrick
Jaycees
The Jaycees is an organization of men and women, from twenty-one to thirty-nine years of age,
who want the best opportunities for leadership development, individual development, management
development and community service.
The Center Point Jaycees began
in 1965 as an affiliation with the Vinton
Jaycees. In May 1966 the Center Point
Jaycees became a separate entity from
Vinton and were designated as Chapter
263. The Club began with 27 members
under the leadership of Jim Sherman,
the first president. By the end of the
1966-1967 year, membership had
increased to 41 members.
Over the years, the meetings
have been held at various locations:
Haddy’s Haven, the Fire Station, the
Community Hall, and the LJL Hall.
Membership has ranged from 66
members in 1996/1997 to 21 members
in 1979/1980.
The Jaycee Ettes, a women’s
group, made its appearance in 1980s with Linda Sweeting serving as the first president. She also
served as the Regional and State Director of the group. Men and women members were subsequently
combined into one group because of the Supreme Court ruling, which stated that organizations could
not discriminate on the basis of sex.
The Jaycees have two major yearly fundraisers: garbage bag sales and Pork Days. The money
that is raised from these events is used to pay the construction loan on the Veteran’s Pavilion and to
cover the operating costs of the Jaycees such as insurance and rental of storage space.
Money is also donated to various organizations including Boy Scouts, Juvenile Diabetes
Foundation, and US Junior Chamber of Commerce. Numerous donations are also made to the Center
Point Urbana School including Little League, Post Prom, the Service Learning Class, Boys and Girls
State, Project Alert t-shirts, and an annual sponsorship for one person to participate in the state “super
shooters” contest. The group also contributes to the community by donating their time for highway
cleanup. The Jaycees sponsor and contribute to the Christmas Giving Tree. This activity is a fund
raising event geared toward providing support to needy families in the area.
Planning and preparation for the annual Pork Days celebration is a monumental task. Planning
usually begins in February. Numerous chairpersons are selected to oversee the preparations including
the food booth, the beer tent, the parade, Little Miss/Little Master, entertainment, talent show contest,
1988 Jaycee members l-r: Kevin and Becky Shoop, Mike Liercke, Donna
and Terry Nielsen. Jaycees organized a Vegas Night for guests to play
casino games. Proceeds of $1,800 were used for Fross Park improve-
ments and renovations of the LJL Hall.

108
advertising and the craft show. An overall chairperson is also selected to handle everything else including
contacting the carnival, arranging for porta-potties, obtaining approval of the city council and obtaining
proper insurance. The end result is a wonderful community weekend where neighbors and family can
relax, socialize and enjoy delicious pork sandwiches.
The method of cooking the pork has changed over time. Originally, the Booster’s Club dug a
big roasting pit in the vacant lot located on the southwest corner of Main and Washington streets. They
suspended whole hogs above the fire to barbeque the meat for sandwiches. Beginning in the 1980s, the
meat was cooked in hog roasters. Today, the Jaycees cook the meat in big ovens at the school.
The organization also contributes to the community through the various events it sponsors during
the year. These events provide safe opportunities for recreation and socialization for young and old
alike. The Jaycees sponsor monthly teen dances, an Easter egg hunt, the Halloween haunted house, and
“sand box fill”.
--Amy Rebecca Fuls
The Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal non-profit organization whose membership includes
Catholic men over the age of eighteen. K of C Council #12131 was officially chartered on January 26,
1998. There are 72 charter members from the Center Point, Walker and Urbana areas.
When asked why the Knights of Columbus had located in Center Point rather than Walker or
Urbana, which have Catholic churches, T. J. Neenan responded that he’s always thought of it as the
“Center Point of the Universe.” The location actually helped to unify the churches and created a
Catholic presence in the city.
The Knights of Columbus purchased the building located at 808 Main Street in September,
2000. After re-modeling, the group “officially” moved in on May 3, 2001. Meetings are held one time
per month. The building is also used for Friday morning Mass service.
The Squires of St. Patrick, an organization for Catholic youth between eight and eighteen years
of age, started in 2002. The Center Point chapter is the largest in Iowa with twenty-four members.
Most youth are between twelve and fourteen years of age. The youth typically meet in the basement of
the building, which has been outfitted with a pool table, a ping-pong table, darts, television and couches.
Meetings are held one time per month although the youth will congregate and socialize in the space if
an adult is present in the building.
Both organizations are involved in fundraisers including a pancake breakfast and lemonade
stands at the various city carnivals. Proceeds are used to promote vocations for young men and women
aspiring to become priests or nuns. Two $500 scholarship funds for St. Mary’s Church and Sacred
Heart Church have recently been established. The organizations have also been involved with raising
money for community residents who need help. The youth group sometimes helps area residents with
chores such as raking leaves.
--T. J. Neenan
Lions Club
The Lions Club was organized on June 10, 1959. The organization originally held meetings in
the upper level of the old Commercial Hotel, located on the corner of Washington and Main Streets.
When the hotel burned on July 15
th
, 1968, many records of the Club were destroyed. The Club temporarily
relocated to the Point Inn and then the Galley Restaurant to hold meetings. When the LJL (Legion,

109
Jaycees, Lions) Hall was acquired from the Masonic
Lodge, the group moved their meetings to that location.
The Lions Club has been involved in a variety of community projects. They have sponsored
many fundraisers including the Turkey Raffle in the fall and the Ham Raffle in the spring. Additionally,
the Club sold light bulbs and brooms door to door to raise money for various needs.
One of the Club’s more memorable community projects involved installing street signs and
assigning home addresses. The Club was responsible for purchasing street signs and installing the
signs on the corners of each intersection. Warren Hannen, a Lions Club member, brought his posthole
digger on his tractor to install the poles. The Lions symbol can still be seen on some of the street signs
around town.
Next the group focused on assigning house numbers to the homes. The group spaced the numbers
so there was space if more houses would be built later. The Lions Club furnished the numbers that were
affixed to the houses.
--Dave Craig
Youth Groups
Several other youth groups are active in Center Point including the Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and
Girl Scouts. The Boy Scouts were organized in Center Point in 1925. Membership ranged from 8 to
25 members from 1925 to 1953.
Early Organizations-Gone But Not Forgotten
The Grand Army of Republic, Denison Post #244, was an organization of Civil War Veterans,
corresponding to American Legion today. Organized in 1883 and named for Lt. James Denison, it
automatically went into disbandment with the death of the last Civil War veteran, Harrison Bartleson,
Officers of newly organized Lions Club in 1959. Seated l-r:
Marvin Colton, president; Harry Brookman, 1st VP; Stand-
ing: Harold Vos, sec-treas.; Eldon Dennison, 2nd VP; and
Dr. Kenneth Anderson, 3rd VP.
1959 street sign and house number project under-
taken by the Lions Club. l-r: Paul Roseberry,
Marvin Colton.

110
who died on October 14, 1935. The Denison Relief Corp was a related organization whose charter was
granted on June 9, 1886. The group was disbanded on March 4, 1935.
The first Masonic lodge, A.F. & A.M. Vienna Lodge, No. 142, was instituted at Marysville
(Urbana), June 8, 1859. The masonry tools depicted in lodge’s material and signs symbolize the principles
of the fraternity. For example, the “square” symbolizes that members should strive to treat other people
“squarely.” The “compass” symbolizes the importance of self-control and staying within bounds. The
highest-ranking officer was known as the Worshipful Master.
Since most members of the Lodge were from Center Point, permission from the Grand Lodge
was obtained on June 3, 1863, to move the Lodge to Center Point. Meetings were held in Newland’s
Hall until 1869, when they were transferred to Spooner’s Hall. Later the group shared the IOOF Hall
with the ‘Odd fellows.” The building was located on the northeast corner of Main and State streets. By
1953, membership had soared to 145 persons.
The Order of Eastern Star was formed in Center Point on October, 1905. Dale Matheny
describes this group as the women’s version of the Vienna Lodge, No. 142. The lodge was affiliated
with the Grand Chapter, a Masonic lodge in Des Moines. From its modest beginnings, the group grew
into one of the largest organizations in town in 1954, boasting 185 members. Both men and women
belonged to the lodge. All of the officers of the lodge were women except for three. Men held the
office of Worthy Patron, Associate Patron and Sentinel. The highest-ranking office for the women was
Worthy Matron. The past Matrons formed a club that met the second Monday of each month. The club
was known as Lucretia Circle, named for the first Worthy Matron, Mrs. Crete Servison. Past Patrons
would also meet in members, homes.
Meetings were held upstairs in the IOOF Building. The second floor was reached by climbing
a long closed stairway on the outside of the building. Meetings were held monthly. Members of both
organizations, Vienna Lodge and Order of the Eastern Star, would usually linger after the meetings,
play cards, enjoy refreshments, and socialize.
Masonry blossomed in Iowa, peaking in the 1940s with 95,000 men in more than 500 lodges.
Since the 1950s, membership declined and dozens of lodges have closed. Center Point lodges followed
this trend.
The Lodge built a new building in 1955 and continued to meet at this location until the group
disbanded in the 1980s. When the chapter closed in Center Point, the State Masonic Order allowed the
remaining members to incorporate with the lodge in Shellsburg. The Masons discussed the disposal of
their Center Point building; it was finally decided that the building, located on the east side of Main
Street, between Washington and Green streets, should be sold to the Lions, Jaycees and the Legion for
a low price.
C. Fordyce of Cedar Rapids organized I.O.O.F. Center Point Lodge, No. 185. The original
membership included fifteen members. Lodge members who were men were known as “Odd fellows”
and members who were women were known as “Rebeccas.” The charter was granted October 20,
1870. Meetings were first held in the Red Hall where the A.F. & A.M. Vienna Lodge met. Later the
Lodge took possession of a new hall, which they erected, that was located on the second floor of D.
Serveson’s building. In 1878, there were twenty-four members. The “1878 History of Linn County”
describes the space as a good hall that is well furnished. The Lodge property was valued at $1,500.
District Deputy Haywood of Lyons, Iowa, instituted a Lodge of the A.O.U.W. Order in Center
Point on June 22, 1877. Fourteen members joined the Lodge; all were officers.
Evening Star Lodge, Knights of Pythias No. 206, was organized and the charter granted on
October 3, 1888. Albert Kubias was the first Chancellor Commander.
The group first held meetings in a building on Main Street where the vacant lot next to the Dog
House between Washington and State streets is situated. In 1904, a fire destroyed the building and all

111
Knights of Pythias
member in full dress,
1895.
Knight of Pythias Band in their parade wagon 1892, leader Frank Myers
the records of the lodge were lost. The group purchased the Bliss Building, which was on the northwest
corner of Main and Washington streets, by selling shares to members. The group met on the second
floor of the building; the main floor was rented to several businesses including restaurants and taverns.
Members entered the second floor via an exterior stairway.
After the business portion of the meeting was concluded, members would play cards, share
potluck dinners and occasionally enjoy dances. Erma Busenbark remembers that the group would meet
one time per month. Her father, Ike Street, would arrive early at the hall to start the heat in the winter.
During the Depression, she remembers her father breaking up orange crates to use as kindling since the
group couldn’t afford coal to heat the hall.
Membership ran between eighty and a hundred members. Members gave their ownership shares
in the building to the city when the group disbanded in the 1950s. The group’s records were transferred
to the Cedar Rapids lodge. The Center Point Historical Society acquired many artifacts from the lodge
when they purchased the building in 1976.
The Pythian Sisters No. 141 was a branch of the Knights of Pythias Lodge. The group of
women members was organized in 1921. The group met on the first Friday of every month. At these
meetings, the group discussed giving donations to the needy. The also sent cards and flowers to residents
to mark special occasions or sickness. In 1953, the club’s membership totaled sixty-nine.
The Community Club, originally called the Commercial Club, was organized in the late 1800s
to to develop strategies to promote the town and local businesses. For a time its membership was
limited to business and professional men. Area businesses paid dues and would meet monthly. Over
the years the club organized many activities, including monthly potluck dinners to promote fellowship.
The highlights of the organization’s annual activities were the Horse Show and the Athletic Banquets.
The organization sponsored other contributions to the community including Christmas treats for children,
Christmas decorations for the streets, a Halloween parade and party for the children of the community.
The group also sponsored the “Midget Baseball Team” and was instrumental in the planning for the
Centennial Celebration. In 1954, membership ran as high as 160.
Erma Busenbark remembers the Club’s purchase in the late 1930s of a merry-go-round. The
Club wanted an attraction that would maximize the number of shoppers who came to Center Point
rather than shopping at neighboring communities. Ike Street headed a committee charged with locating

112
a merry-go-round that was not too expensive. The carousel was powered with a steam engine and
included colorful, animated horses and swing seats. Her father, Ike Street, and her uncle, Charles,
repaired the merry-go-round. It was installed on the land behind the IOOF building and was placed into
action on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Children could enjoy
a ride for five cents, but free rides were almost as numerous as
the paying fares. Later the engine was converted to electric.
Sadly, the carousel was sold to a carnival during World War II.
Erma also fondly remembers another project of the
Community Club. For several years merchants lined Main
Street with 6 foot Christmas trees that had been purchased by
the Club for 75 cents each. Area businesses decorated the trees
and then placed them in the flag holders.
Another project included an ice skating rink, located
on the north side of the school, where the all-purpose and
wrestling rooms are today. Around 1950, over 125 people
enjoyed the entertainment and dedication ceremonies of the
Whit Langsdale skating rink when it opened on a
rapidly disintegrating ice pond. Community Club
members, headed by Sam Lewis, had worked until 3
a.m. on the morning of the dedication to get the rink
in good condition for the exhibition and races.
Spills, laughs and damp clothing were part
of the day’s events. Ribbons were awarded to skaters
in various age groups. Loudspeakers broadcast
recorded music during the races.
Commercial Club waiting for the train to take them to Cedar Rapids to attend a banquet 1914.
Mrs. Ella Mounce and Ike Street taking a whirl
on the merry-go round in 1940.
Skating rink built next to school grounds 1950.

113
Churches
Alice United Methodist Church
In approximately 1877, circuit preachers began stopping in the Alice area. Revival meetings
were held at homes and schoolhouses of community residents. Before long, residents began planning to
build a church. On March 29, 1880, one and three quarter acres of land on the southwest corner of
Thomas and Alice Kirk’s farm were purchased for $100.00. This purchase included enough land for a
church, cemetery, and a hitching yard on the north side. The schoolhouse was south of the cemetery.
Ninety-five people signed church subscriptions pledging their support. Amounts pledged varied
from $1.00 to $150.00. The wood frame church building was built and dedicated in the fall of 1880
under the pastorate of Rev. J. Wagoner. The ten charter members were Mr. and Mrs. Ludwig, Mr. and
Mrs. Erharts, Mr. and Mrs. Bauer, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Kirk, Caleb Bach and John Bach. The minister
received a salary, rent money, and an allowance for horse feed.
The church at Alice has always had a commuting minister. In the beginning, the church was
affiliated with Evangelical Association of North America and was called the Olive Branch Church. The
name was changed to Alice in 1892 because there was another Olive Branch location in Iowa. It was
later associated with the Evangelical United Brethren church after a merger in those denominations. In
1968 it became Alice United Methodist after another merger in the denominations.
The original building was
erected by men who donated
their time and labor and so there
is no record of the original cost.
Early records show a valuation
of $1,000.00 placed on the
church.
Renovations were made
to the original building. The
entrance was moved from the
center of the west side to a newly
constructed entryway. A belfry
once existed, but it was removed
because of the excess weight. In
1912, the building was painted
and a new coat of wallpaper
added for a price of $38.58.
The Women’s Missionary Society was started in 1921. This group is now called Alice United
Methodist Women, still an active and vital part of the church.
Alice United Methodist Church located on Alice Road.

114
Another group, the Alice Sewing Circle, has been active in raising money for building renovations
and other church projects. The group financed the raising of the building and the construction of the
basement in 1927. Men, horses and the use of a “slip-scoop” were employed to move dirt and rocks.
This was volunteer labor, except for the work of a mason. This ladies’ group also purchased the first
piano, financed the carpet installation in 1923 and concrete step renovation in 1925.
Mr. and Mrs. Burt Tritle purchased an acre of land north of the church for more parking area and
donated it to the church. A drain and running water were installed and piped from the George Kirk, Sr.,
home; the men of the church donated the labor. The altar table at the church was engraved by Demotte
Rose and made by the Sunday School. In 1972, a large addition was made on the north end of the
building to accommodate restrooms and meeting rooms.
The annual Lords’ Harvest Day, held the first Saturday in November, began in the fall of 1947.
The church auctioned items that had been donated by members including corn, soybeans, ducks, geese,
chickens, garden produce, bakery items, and crafts. The day’s events included a huge meal that was
supported by the church and community. The last auction was held in 1967, but fresh produce, bakery
items and crafts are still sold at the annual event each year. The noon meal continues to be a popular
part of the day’s activities.
The church presently has 95 members, an active bible study and choir, a Sunday school and
many mission activities.
Shirley J. Elgin, Historian
Baptist Church
An early Baptist Church was organized in Center Point in 1858 by the efforts of Elder Daniel
Rowley of Jordan’s Grove. Among the original members were George McNeil and his wife. Services
were held in the schoolhouse and in the Congregational church. In 1878 the members numbered 23.
Christian Church
The congregation, known as the First Christian Church in Center Point, was founded in 1874.
The first meetings were held in Red Hall, which was located where the Methodist church now stands.
The Rev. Olympse, a resident of Center Point, preached. He also preached in the Lockhart School west
of town. Later meetings were held in
Irvin Hall, located on the west side of
Main Street between Green and
Washington streets. In 1878, the
Congregational Church donated their
church. The first Christian Church
was built in 1880 under the leadership
of Brother McConnell. The church
was located on the site of the current
church.
By the end of 1885, a dispute
among church members
nationwidewas brewing. The
“southern” opinions did not want any
changes in the church that was not in
the New Testament. They did not
Built in 1880, today part of current church building on Franklin St.

115
want musical instruments, missionary societies and relegating leadership of the congregation to the
elders. On July 20, 1889, the dispute split the church into two factions nationally. The “northern”
opinion stayed in the church building on Franklin and the “southern” opinion filed Articles of
Incorporation for the new Church of Jesus Christ. That summer, a new church building for the splinter
group was dedicated at the corner of Water and Olive Streets.
The period between 1890 and 1923 was a period of gradual growth. By 1913, the congregation
reported 156 members. Bible school was an important part of the Church. Even when preaching
became spotty during the dispute, Bible School was held regularly, with the congregation meeting for
Bible study and communion.
Several church groups were formed. The Christian Women’s Fellowship (CFW) includes all
the women of the church. The group comes together for Bible study, missionary work, worship and
fellowship. The group has sponsored many projects and has contributed substantially to the maintenance,
repair and remodeling of the church, the parsonage and the grounds. CWF projects have included:
camp and conference scholarships, hospital garments, Christmas goodies sent to servicemen, serving
for receptions that follow funerals, the Christmas mitten tree, and sponsoring the Easter breakfast.
Funds were raised by annual suppers, silent auctions and serving food stands.
The Christian Youth Fellowship (CYF) is a youth group that was organized in 1911. Early
meetings were followed by potluck dinners; the bobsled party in the winter was a big hit. Youth have
participated in retreats, Christmas caroling and the Christmas Eve Pageant. They have served as ushers,
junior deacons/deaconesses and scripture readers during service. Fundraisers include serving wedding
receptions, sponsoring bake sales, and serving food at other events. Many field trips have also been
taken.
In 1922, the first major remodeling of the church began. The original building was raised
several feet, a basement was dug, an addition was added and the outside was covered with a brick
First Christian Church in 2004

116
veneer. Stained glass windows were installed and the sanctuary was remodeled. Congregation members
who remember the remodeling, recall that the team of horses used to dig the basement had to be
blindfolded to come up out of the basement with the dirt.
The purchase of a parsonage located at 702 Water Street was initiated in 1942. This house was
sold and a new home located at 521 Main Street was purchased. Finally, a new parsonage located
adjacent to the Church was built, using funds from the L.J. Dennis memorial fund.
In the period between the world wars, the emphasis was on fully trained, full time ministers.
Ministers shifted from older men, who served part-time to younger men who were students learning to
be ministers. After 1950, the emphasis was on full-time pastors who served long terms.
The purchase of a new Hammond electric organ in 1951 was made possible by funds raised
from the production of a play, “The Gypsy Rover.” This play was one of the last productions sponsored
by the church.
In 1955, an addition was added to the church. The space provided needed classrooms for the
church school. Later remodeling included an enclosed entrance. In summer 2003 there was the biggest
renovation of the building since 1922. A new ground level entrance was added with elevator service to
both floors. The stained glass was restored, restrooms remodeled and the parking lot paved.
Church of Jesus Christ
In 1889, a dispute among church members split the local Christian Church into two factions.
On July 20, 1889, Articles of Incorporation for the “Church of Jesus Christ in Center Point, Iowa”,
were filed. In August, a new building, the present
Baptist Church, was dedicated. The Articles of
Incorporation describe the differences between the
two factions. The Church of Jesus Christ did not
permit instrumental music in the buildings. The
Elders were to be the sole authority on the true
interpretation of the scriptures. Finally, “no
associations not in the New Testament” could use
the church premises.
A new church building, which measured 28 x 44,
was located on the northwest corner of Water and
Olive Streets. In 1892, the church had approximately
30 members and boasted a very good attendance,
especially at Sabbath school. A new educational
addition was added in 1965. It housed three
classrooms on first floor and a fellowship hall in the basement. In the early 1990s, the church closed
and merged with the Church of Christ in Toddville. The church is one of the oldest churches of its kind
in Iowa.
Congregational Church
This church was established in 1873 with nineteen members. Leonidas McCurdy was a prime
mover in the organization. The following year, a new church was erected measuring 30 x 44 feet with
two spires and costing $3,000. Its location was on the northwest corner of Franklin and Washington
streets. In 1878 the members number 50. In 1878 this church donated its building to the First Christian
Church members.
Church of Christ circa 1890.

117
St. John’s Lutheran Church
In October of 1942, Pastor Edmund Frese of Zion Luther Church in Shellsburg began the
groundwork for a Lutheran congregation in the Center Point area. The first organized service was
held in August 1943, at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Carl Vaupel. During that year services were also held
at the Evangelical Church in Center Point and Green’s Grove Community Church. In 1947, the first
church building, a reconstructed army barracks was erected on the south side of Center Point. In that
same year on May 18, St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church was officially organized as a congregation
affiliated with the Iowa District East of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, and as a sister
congregation of Zion, Shellsburg. (Arlene Titler, widow of one of the seven charter members, is still an
active member of the congregation in 2004.)
In 1948, Pastor Arnold Aschbrenner become the church’s second pastor. By 1953, the increase
in membership, worship attendance and Sunday School enrollment, made it necessary to plan for a
larger facility. The present church building, located at the corner of Water and Vine Streets in Center
Point, was constructed in 1955 and dedicated on April 18, 1956.
In February of 1957, the members of St. John and Zion met for the purpose of formally dissolving
their joint parish. The church constructed the present parsonage located just south of the church to
accommodate the resident pastor.
During the next five years, the congregation experienced dramatic growth, again necessitating
an expansion of the facility. In April 1965, an addition to the west end of the building, including
Sunday school classrooms, an office and increased seating in the sanctuary, was completed. In 1971, a
seven-rank pipe organ was installed and dedicated.
Throughout its history, the members of St. John have organized themselves in various ways to
enhance the ministry of Word and Sacrament among them and to share the Gospel with others. The
women’s society, affiliated with the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, was formed in 1950 and
was active until 1995. Many of its activities are still carried on by the Ruth Circle, the Altar Guild, the
Women’s Fellowship Group and the Funeral Food committee.
St. John Lutheran Church in 2004

118
In 1957, a men’s club, affiliated with the Lutheran Laymen’s League, was organized and later
expanded into a more inclusive fellowship club. In 1958, the young people of the congregation formed
a youth group affiliated with the Walther League of the LCMS, and in the early 1980s joined the
reorganized LCMS Lutheran Youth Fellowship. St. John LYF has been represented at all recent Synodical
Youth Gatherings.
Sporadically, an adult choir has provided special music for worship services. In recent years the
choir was reorganized under the direction of Carol Hanneman, who in 1995 also organized a junior
choir. The church organist, Carole Krumm, has been faithfully serving the congregation in that capacity
since 1957.
Sunday School, an important aspect of the church’s educational ministry, has been functioning
continually since the early years. One of the teachers, Mary Kay Krumm, has taught the nursery class
for 50 years. Other aspects of the Christian education ministry include junior Confirmation instruction,
adult Bible class, adult instruction classes, and an annual Vacation Bible School. In the early 1990s, the
congregation also started a Food Bank.
In addition to the building of the church and parsonage, various improvements have been made
to the property over the years. These improvements were made possible through memorial gifts and
other special contributions. Renovations included new carpeting and pew cushions in the sanctuary,
new furnace and air-conditioning units in the church and parsonage, and a new garage for the parsonage.
In the mid 1980s, an arrangement was initiated to purchase the piece of property directly west of the
church. In 1993, that sale was finalized and the house on that property was removed, making way for
future parking lot expansion, a project completed in 2003.
United Methodist Church
(First Methodist, Evangelical, United Brethren Churches)
The United Methodist Church of
Center Point is a union of the Evangelical
United Brethren and First Methodist
Churches. Nationally, the churches
combined in 1971. In Center Point, it was
a natural union since both churches were
located in the 800 block of Summit Street.
Each has its own history prior to the
combination.
The Evangelical United Brethren
Church
About the year 1877, Rev. William
Kolb, an Evangelical circuit rider, in filling
his appointments every two weeks, passed
the Blue Creek School House three miles
north of Center Point. He was persuaded by John and Fred Heverly to hold services at the schoolhouse.
After the death of Rev. Kolb, the ministry was continued at the schoolhouse by Rev. W. J. Hahn.
In the year 1878, at the home of Mr. and Mrs Asa Cheadle, the Center Point Class of the
Evangelical Association was organized by Rev. Hahn with nine charter members. Four of them were
Mr. and Mrs. Cheadle, Mrs. C. E. Liabo, and W. W. Stewart. After worshipping in private homes and
the Old Red Hall, a resident pastor, Rev. J. Wagoner was assigned here by the conference in spring
Evangelical Church built in 1883 on State Street

119
1882. It was then decided to build a church which
was completed in 1883 at a cost of $700. The
location of this building was 105 State Street just
west of the present day Methodist Church. As the
congregation grew, in 1886 the building was moved
to the north side of the block and a 22 foot
additionandtower was added at the cost of $1,600.
In 1900 another addition was dedicated during the
pastorate of Rev. Klinefelter.
In 1896 the Ladies Missionary Society was
formed with Mission Study. The Ladies Aid was
organized on May 10, 1904 with its focus on the
upkeep of the church, and other causes.
In 1911, during pastorate of Rev. G. A.
Albright, the church and parsonage were constructed
at the southwest corner of Summit and Washington
streets. This time the cost was $12,500. The
building committee consisted of A. H. Ring, J. J
Heverly, Geo. Frey, W. A. Rogers and O. S. Leonard.
A part of the old church was sold and the remainder
was remodeled into a house to be used as the
parsonage. The new church building, below the window sills, are large cut stone gathered from the
Kramer and Ring farms north of town. The trimming around entrances and front is built of native
granite. The windows are art glass and the remainder of the walls pressed brick. This gives it the
designation of the only church of this denomination built like this in the state.
In August 1911 the cornerstone was laid. Among the contents of the box sealed within were a
local newspaper, coins, a record
of the church membership,
committees and officers. On
February 4, 1912, the church was
dedicated by Bishop Fouke of
Chicago, who used as his scripture
lesson Psalm 103.
On December 21, 1926,
during the pastorate of E. H.
Heverly, the church held
ceremonies which marked the end
of their indebtedness. The
congregation sang with deep
emotion and gratitude “Praise
God from Whom All Blessings
Flow” as the mortgage was
reduced to ashes. Rev. Heverly
had been a member of the church as a boy and helped as a young man with the various building projects
undertaken by the church.
In 1895, Mrs. Fowler, a lady evangelist held meetings in
the EUB church. In a four week period, 82 were added to
the membership.
Evangelical Church built in 1911 on corner of Summit and Washington Streets.

120
In 1946, the Evangelical Church joined with the United Brethern and became known as the
Evangelical United Brethern (EUB). In 1961 there was a celebration of the 83
rd
year of the church in
Center Point and the 50
th
year since the laying of the corner stone of the church building.
First Methodist Church
In 1841, the first Methodist
preaching in Center Point was by
Rev. John Hodges of Marion
Mission. He preached at the
Shearer cabin and at Bartimeus
McGonigle’s. In October, 1841,
Rev. S. W. Ingham began
preaching duties and also preached
at the homes of the Osborne’s and
at Mr. Davis’, 4 miles NW of town.
In 1842, Rev. Ingham
started the first class with Mr.
Shearer as leader, with six
members, including Mr .
McGonigle and his wife. This
group quickly grew to a dozen.
By 1850, the Methodist
Episcopel charge was made up of
five preaching places. In 1851,
Rev. Hawn, at the end of this first
year stated, “My receipts for the
year were low, one calico dress for
my wife, six to eight bushels of corn
for my horse, and about $2.50 in
money. But we were young and
hopeful and lived in the affections
of the people and sowed seed, the
fruitage of which shall be gathered
in eternity.”
In 1865, under the pastorate
of W. O. Glassner, the first church
building was erected at 321 Summit
St. The new church was 44 x 28
feet and was dedicated May 20,
1866 at a cost of $2,206. At the dedication the remaining indebtedness of $635.00 was raised. In 1881
the church was remodeled and 16 feet added. In 1878, the members numbered 65. A new belfry was
added in 1891. In records of 1894 are listed the 11 committees of the church: 1) Missions 2) Sunday
School 3) Church Extension, 4) Tracts 5) Temperance 6) Education 7) Freeman’s Aid & Southern
Education 8) Church Records 9) Parsonage & Furniture 10) Music 11) Estimating Committee
A new church was built in 1906 at 803 Summit St. The total cost of the building was about
$8,000. It was dedicated on April 28, 1907 while Rev. S. C. Bretnall was minister. $2,500 was needed
to finish paying for the church, and after a magnificent sermon by the bishop Dr. Stuntz, $3,200 was
First Methodist Church built in 1865 at 321 Summit St., today the home of Dan
and Teresa Scheeler.
Methodist Church built in 1907, corner of Summit and State Streets.

121
soon raised in less than an hour. This was a magnificent testimony of what people can do if they believe
they can do it.
Church fund raisers in the 1930s were organized by the two Women’s Societies. Every two
weeks they would take turns hosting a 15¢ luncheon. During the 1910s and 20s high school graduations
were held at the church. Graduates sat in the balcony and marched down to the choir loft, proceeded to
the altar to receive their diploma and outside to form the congratulatory line.
In 1939 when the different bodies of Methodism united nationally, the “Episcopal” was dropped
from the name and it was known as First Methodist Church.
The centennial of Methodism in Center Point was celebrated in November, 1942 with a banquet
with former ministers as speakers. A worship service and historical pageant were held with a bewhiskered
quarter providing music. Quartet members were Hillis Whitenack, Herman Beebe, John Gilchrist and
Harold Calvin.
In 1949 a remodeling program was begun with installation of an oil burning furnace and conversion of
the coal room into two new restrooms. The juniors in 1952 earned money to remodel the balcony into
a classroom for themselves. In 1952, a beautiful Baldwin Electronic Organ was dedicated paid for with
memorial gifts.
Combined United Methodist History
In 1971 the First Methodist and Evangelical United Brethern (EUB) churches were merged
nationally and became known as the United Methodist. Sunday morning services for the newly combined
congregation were held at the EUB building (north). The basement of the Methodist (south) building
was remodeled into class rooms. The EUB parsonage was sold as well as other excess things at an
auction. The parsonage which was west of the building across the alley, burned in the 1980s. In 1993
due to overcrowding during
worship, services were moved to
the south building after some
sanctuary renovations. In 2000
the north building sanctuary was
remodeled into a Youth Center
where youth groups meet.
Today, in 2004, there are
two Sunday morning worship
services at 8:15 and 10:45 with
average attendance of 220.
Sunday school classes are held for
youth and adults. Youth Groups
are held on Wednesday nights for
approximately 150 youth.
The Center Point church is
currently part of a 3 point charge
in combination with Urbana and
Alice United Methodist churches.
Current pastor since 1999 is Michael Ellson. Associate pastor is Leo Anderson who primarily serves
Alice and Urbana. 163 years of Methodism in Center Point has seen many changes and still holds a
strong nucleus for the future.
United Methodist Church 2004

122
Victory Baptist Church
The church was organized on August 18, 1985, meeting at 808 Main Street. In January 1986,
they bought and moved into the former Church of Christ building on the northwest corner of Water
and Olive streets. The pastor is Larry Daubs. They currently hold Sunday morning worship services
and Sunday school classes.
Victory Baptist Church 2004 on Water Street.

123
City Services
Governance-The First 100 Years
On February 6, 1875, an election was held that resulted in the incorporation of Center Point.
The first election of town officers was held at the Central House on March 20, 1875. William Neven
was elected Mayor, T. J. Speakman was elected Recorder, C. O. Fisher was elected Assessor, J. S.
Winans, L. L. Wilson, N. Nevin, G.W. Kuck and D. Serveson were elected Trustees and C. O. Fisher
was elected Marshal.
Elections were held annually through 1878. At the end of that time, the town had an indebtedness
of $300. The first jail was built that same year between Olive and Water streets while Ed Cumberland
served as marshal.
By 1904, the slate of officers had been changed to
include three council members instead of five trustees. A
Treasurer and Clerk were also added to the ticket. Elections
that year pitted the “Citizen Ticket” against the “People
Ticket.” By 1911, the number of council members had
been increased to five.
The business of the early town council can be
glimpsed by reviewing newspaper articles. Bernita
Roseberry prepared the following summary.
On June 7, 1900, the following bills were presented
and approved: Robert Bellfield for sawing wood ($1), Nels
Lindquist for lighting lamps and feeding tramps ($7.10),
and Jay Osborn for cemetery watch ($2.70). Carl Darling
was authorized to work one day on the streets in lieu of
paying his dog tax.
On December 27, 1900, the town council is labeled
as a stickler for morality and sanitation. An ordinance is
being advertised making it a misdemeanor for any person
to expectorate tobacco juice on streets.
At the waterworks meeting on Wednesday night,
September 7, 1911, the proposition of putting in water works
at a cost of $10,000 was discussed. The proposition
included a compressed air system and water mains for the
entire town. The proposal passed. The town installed two
water mains, one on Main Street and one on Central Avenue.
Regardless of where you lived, all residents who wanted to
Chauncy Lyman, served as Justice Of Peace for
Center Point and Alice early 1900s. Acted as
judge overseeing small infractions and assess-
ing fines. He died in 1914.

124
use the city’s well piped water from those lines. Dale Matheny recalls that the city’s well was quite
shallow, approximately thirty feet deep. A 10,000-gallon tank for the system was housed in the building
where the public library is located today. The pressure from the system was not always reliable.
A nearby town hall was located just east of Main Street on State Street. The building, erected in
1870, was known as the Union Hall. The second floor was owned and used by the Grand Army of the
Republic (GAR) and known as the GAR Hall.
A large hall, complete with a stage, was
located on the top floor of the two-story building.
The steps to reach the second floor were located
on the outside of the hall, west side. High school
plays and graduations, community plays, dances,
recitals and other community events were held
there. Even the famous Cherry Sisters appeared
on its stage. Many businesses were located on the
first floor, including H. D. Newland General Store,
C. A. Simmons & Son General Store, Ed Bliss
Furniture and Undertaking, and Oathout & Houser
Furniture and Undertaking.
In 1917, the building was donated to the
city for use by the town council and also to house
the town jail and fire engines. The jail had two
cells, with an upper and lower bunk in each. It
1912 Installation of water mains on Main Street between State and Olive Streets. This equipment was the ditcher.
Old city hall from early 1900s until 1950. Located on
State Street east of Main Street. Picture taken 1950 when
there was a bond issue to vote to build a new city hall and
fire station. (Kubias Harness Shop to the right.)

125
also housed a collection of museum artifacts, including civil war memorabilia and coats of armor.
During WWII, the building was rapidly deteriorating and the collection was moved to the school.
When the school no longer had space to store the Civil War memorabilia, the collection was donated to
the University of Iowa. When the building was razed in year 1951 the east wall of the building fell into
the next door Kubias Harness Shop, causing minor injuries to Frank Kubias.
Dale Matheny served as a city councilman from 1946-1948. Dale remembers that the job
involved a lot of donated labor. Dale describes the city’s budget as minimal. The city’s fleet consisted
of an old dump truck. The city’s paid staff included one person who doubled as the city marshal and the
street man. Dale remembers on more than one occasion helping to plow snow from the streets.
In 1950, the city held an election to vote for a $45,000 bond to erect a new city hall on Franklin
Street. The city operated from this building until 1995 when they moved to 200 Franklin Street into the
building previously occupied by Arenson Chevrolet.
A Fifty Year Review of Council Proceedings
The People
Mayors have administrative authority, while the council’s authority lies in setting policy and
adopting ordinances. Mayors oversee all departments and employees, and directly appoint public safety
personnel, such as the Chief of Police. By ordinances adopted over time, council members have retained
the right to appoint most board and commission members. Currently Center Point mayors only appoint
Library Board members.
Part of the challenges faced by mayors involves their responsibility to oversee city employees.
Long time employees sometimes resist new ideas brought in by persons viewed as “temporary” bosses.
Mayors do not set policy and cannot vote. They do, however, have the ability to veto actions taken by
the council. In this fifty-year period, four mayors have used their veto power. All vetoes were upheld;
the council overrode none of these actions.
Councils have the authority to hire and fire staff, although mayors can recommend dismissals
and have authority to suspend employees. Mayors often influence appointments, even when this may
be part of the council’s authority, as the mayor is usually expected to seek out interested persons and
Left building, built in 1951, for city hall and fire station. Today in 2004 the Library is on the left, and
ambulance and fire trucks are on the right.

126
make recommendations to the council. Council approval is necessary, except in the area of public
safety. Mayors sometimes appoint “Ad Hoc” committees to accomplish a goal.
Council members do not always follow the mayor’s leadership. In one instance a councilman,
unhappy with the way things were going, made a motion to cut the mayor’s pay in half (the motion
failed). At another time, a councilman asked to be given keys to all doors and cabinets. Normally, only
the administrators, Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem and clerks have keys. When this request was not granted, he
asked that he be given “copies of every paper in the clerk’s office.” He was told he could copy 25
papers per month without paying a copy fee. Additional copies would cost 25 cents per page.
Former mayors agree serving citizens can be both rewarding and frustrating; rewarding if much
is accomplished, frustrating if things go wrong and little is accomplished. Four mayors resigned in this
fifty-year period, without finishing their term. Some served only one term and did not seek another.
Other mayors later sought election as a council member. The three mayors who later were elected as
council members seemed to find this role to be equally rewarding.
Fourteen council members have resigned their posts over this fifty-year period. Three died
while serving. In most cases, councils were able to appoint persons to fill these vacancies, rather than
having to hold special elections.
An unusual election occurred in 1958, when the mayor and three council members were elected
as write-in candidates. Another unusual election happened when three of the five council members
resigned in 1992 and a special election was held. One of the resigning council members “postponed”
her resignation a month so that there would be a quorum to conduct city business.
Petitions were filed with the council on various subjects over the years. More than once, petitions
favoring the construction of a swimming pool were handed to the council. On four occasions, the
council received petitions both for and against the retention of one-way streets just off Main Street.
Years later, when Main Street businesses began to relocate, the council eliminated these one-way streets
that had provided essential extra parking.
2004 City Hall at 200 Franklin Street. Council chambers and Public Works maintenance shop are
located here.

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In this fifty year period, one hundred citizens of Center Point served their community in either
elected office or by being appointed a member of a board or commission, such as Planning and Zoning
Commission, Library Board and Board of Adjustment, or by serving on an Ad Hoc Committee, formed
by the mayor or the council. Several mayors and councilpersons have held office, left office, coming
back to serve again years later. Not all, however, have been successful in their attempts to re-enter
office.
Today, the City Council meets twice monthly; these meetings last between three and four hours.
Fifty years ago, council meetings were held once a month and business was usually completed in
approximately an hour. The city council is responsible for the streets, water, sewer, public safety and
parks. The Council also passes laws (ordinances) that regulate services and expansions.
Over the years, public safety has sometimes consisted of local officers that were appointed by
the Mayor. At other times, the city has contracted with the county sheriff’s department. Today, law
enforcement services are contracted from the Linn County Sheriff. The city and the township contribute
money to the Center Point Fire Department for fire protection.
Six men and five women have held the city clerk/treasurer’s job. Four women held the treasurer
position prior to the two jobs being combined. Today, the city’s payroll includes a clerk, a deputy clerk,
a Public Works Director and three technicians. This staffing can be contrasted to minutes of the town
council in the mid 1950s when they decided there was not sufficient work to warrant hiring a full time
employee.
In the mid 1950s, the city’s annual budget was $16,338 compared to the 2004 budget of $1.5
million. Fifty years ago, the city’s only enterprise was furnishing water from a reservoir tank located
inside the building where the library is located. There were only part time city employees; the clerk was
paid $150 annually. The volunteer Fire Department had limited equipment and there was no city park
or nature trail. Instead, two railroads were operating from separate depots. City streets were not paved
and residents installed septic tanks to handle sewage.
Other groups also support the Council. A seven member Planning and Zoning Board, a five
member Board of Adjustment and a seven member Library Board support the City Council. In recent
years, attorneys and engineers have been retained by the city to attend all regular council meetings,
rather than being consulted as needed.
Index of Election Results
In 1954, J. F. (Fay) Newland served as Mayor of Center Point. Council Members that were
serving were: Don Floyd, James Mack, Clair Whitmore, Floyd Neagle and Elmer Riggle, the latter
being replaced in mid term by Leslie Elay.
In 1956, Howard Holman was installed as Mayor, with Martin Fisher, George Hoglan, Clarence
McNeil, Don Floyd and Floyd Neagle taking office as councilmen. Holman resigned before his term
expired and Leonard Woods was appointed to take his place.
In 1958, Tom Neenan was sworn in as Mayor, having been elected as a write-in candidate,
along with Marion Grubbs, Lloyd Achenbach and Harley Notbohm as write-ins for council. Other
council members included David Craig and Everett Kratzer, whose names were on the ballot in November.
In 1960, Attorney, Blake Shipton took office as Mayor when Neenan did not seek reelection.
Notbohm, and Craig were reelected along with newcomers Oliver Whitcomb and John Ashlock and
C.A. Hendryx.
In 1962, Shipton was elected as Mayor a second time, with Whitcomb, Notbohn, Craig and
Ashlock being reelected to the Council and Marion Grubbs elected, replacing Hendryx.

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In 1964, Blake Shipton was returned as Mayor in a narrow victory over Jack Hogan. Jack
Sholes, Harlan Staton and Wendell Newman came in as new council members, along with John Ashlock
and Marion Grubbs who had been reelected for another two years. Grubbs died in March of 1965,
before his term was completed. H. R. Holman filled his term.
In 1966, Tom Neenan became Mayor once again, this time he had been unopposed. The reelected
Council Members were Jack Sholes, Harlan Staton and John Busenbark and newly elected Dick Holman
and Al Wall.
In 1968, new council members Tom Kaut and E. G. Williams began serving with Mayor Neenan,
along with reelected councilmen Dick Holman, Al Wall and Harlan Staton. Staton resigned only two
months into this term because of employment hour conflicts and Kenneth Andrews was appointed to
complete his term. However, Andrews died in August of 1969 before the term was completed. In
September 1968, Dick Holman resigned and Lawrence Benion was appointed to take his place. In
February of 1969, E. G. Williams resigned and Norman Henderson was appointed to fill that slot.
In 1970, Mayor Neenan administered the oath of office to incoming Mayor Gerald Matheny and
to elected council members Howard Holman, George Castek, Glen Dufoe, Tom Kaut and Al Wall. The
incoming mayor appointed Neenan to a vacancy on the Planning and Zoning Commission, where he
served for the next thirty years. Castek resigned from the council in July of 1971, and was replaced by
Robert Pepin.
In 1972, Matheny continued in office as Mayor along with Howard Holman, Glen Dufoe, Robert
Pepin, Tom Kaut, and Al Wall. In December of 1972 Matheny resigned and Pepin was appointed
Mayor. In June of 1973 Pepin resigned and Howard Holman was appointed Mayor.
In 1974, Eileen Neenan took office as one of the first women to serve as an Iowa mayor, taking
office along with reelected council members Howard Holman, Tom Kaut and Al Wall, and new members
George Castek and Charles Ferguson. .
In 1976, Eileen Neenan began her second term as Mayor. David Craig, Tom Kaut and Robert
Pepin and Charles Ferguson were reelected to the Council with new council member Gary (Mike)
Cook.
In 1978, Mayor Eileen Neenan, who had not sought reelection, was succeeded by Robert Pepin.
Cook, Craig, Kaut, and Ferguson were reelected and Paul Roseberry was newly elected to serve. Mike
Cook resigned in July of 1978, moving to Minnesota. Gary Wallace was appointed to complete his
term.
In 1980, Pepin continued serving as Mayor.. Kaut gets a four-year term as does Don Payne and
David Craig. Paul Roseberry and Harold Vos receive two year terms in the first staggered term election.
In October of 1980 Vos died and Jean Vos, his widow, was chosen to take his place from a field of seven
applicants
In 1982, John Busenbark took office as Mayor, with Chet Butterfield elected and with Craig,
Kaut, Payne and Vos reelected In May of 1983 Mayor Busenbark resigned and Eileen Neenan was
sworn in to fill out the mayor’s term.
In 1984, Mayor Eileen Neenan served another term along with Jean Vos, Chet Butterfield and
Paul Roseberry. Randy Smith and Dick Butschi were newly elected.
In 1986, T. J. Neenan assumed role as Mayor. C. M. Smith, Roseberry and Butschi were reelected
as council members and Marilyn Andersen and Joe Cook were elected as new members. Cook resigned
in March of 1989. Chet Butterfield, who was a runner-up in the previous election, was appointed to fill
the vacancy.
In 1988, Mayor T. J. Neenan, who had not sought a second term, swore in Robert Pepin as
Mayor. Marilyn Andersen, James Ramsey, Harlan Staton, Charles Ferguson, and Frieda Aldrich were
sworn in as council members

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In 1990, since citizens voted to change back to two-year terms, the mayor and council were all
reelected but to two-year terms instead of staggered four-year terms.
In 1992, Joseph Beatty took office as Mayor with Harlan Staton, Frieda Aldrich and Ferguson
being reelected as council members. John Stuelke and Joe Kramer were elected as new council members.
On February 6, Ferguson resigned from the Council. On February 11, Staton resigned from the Council
and on February 12, Frieda Aldrich resigned from the Council. Aldrich later extended her time on the
council by making her resignation effective March 12. A special election was scheduled; Bruce Sholes,
Randy Smith and Kevin Rankin were elected to fill out the vacated terms of council members who had
been elected for a four-year term in 1992.
In 1994, Mayor Beatty continues in office with the same council except for Stephen Palmer
who was elected in place of Bruce Sholes. In October of 1994, Palmer resigned from the Council. A
special election was held and Annette Slifka was elected to fill out the term.
In 1996, Tom Mackey took office as Mayor after defeating J. Beatty with all of the former
council members reelected, but again to staggered terms.
In 1998, John Stuelke took office as Mayor along with new council members Dan Scheeler,
Gary Heins and Tom Mackey and incumbent council members Slifka and Rankin.
In 2000, John Stuelke was installed once again as Mayor with newly elected Paula Freeman
Brown and Connie Robinson replacing Mackey and Rankin. Heins, Slifka and Scheeler still had two
more years to complete of their four-year terms.
In 2002, Tom Neenan succeeded Stuelke as Mayor. Heins was reelected as council member and
Dennis Hundley and Curt Sloan were selected as new council members. Slifka and Brown are carried
forward. Heins resigned in September of 2003. In the November 2003 election to fill the vacancy, Ted
Callahan was unopposed and became eligible for office immediately. In December, Curt Sloan resigned
from the Council. The Council, failing to agree on an appointed replacement, scheduled a special
election to fill the vacancy on May 4, 2004. The winner was Annette Slifka, who had previously served
for ten years.
In 2004, Tom Neenan lost his bid for reelection and Paula Freeman-Brown became the new
Mayor. Council members elected were John Stuelke and Brent Schlotfeld.
Excerpts of City Council Actions
In 1954, Eugene Divoky was appointed Marshal and Raymond Durow served as Deputy Marshal,
at salaries of $40.00 (later $50.00) and $20.00 a month respectively. The city had a police car complete
with a siren. A street resurfacing program was enacted, a new well site was leased from the Rock Island
Railroad and a glass-enclosed bulletin board was placed on Main Street “to hold the printed minutes of
council proceedings and other event notices.”
An ordinance to control dogs (always a source of complaints) was passed and a dog “catcher”
was hired at $2.00 per dog. Water meters were mandated and water rates were actually reduced from
rates set by the previous Council. An agreement was signed with the Monroe Township Fire Department
and a day was designated for volunteers to clean up the creek that ran through the town. The cost of
paving Green Street (Urbana Road) was split between the town and the county.
In 1958, engineer firms were hired to draft plans for a water tower and a sewer system. A
recreation committee was appointed. Their first duty involved building an ice skating rink and assuming
control of the area that was to become the town’s first park. Free movies in the summer were offered
near Main Street.
In 1959, Center Point’s new public library was dedicated, with Patron Card #1 presented to the
Mayor for his support of the library. Ted Augustine was selected as the “Man of the Year Volunteer.”

130
An Industrial Commission was formed to seek industry
for the town. An audit of the town’s records was
completed at a cost of $25.00 per day. A survey was
conducted to help determine the placement of new
sidewalks and street paving. A civil defense siren was
purchased to be placed on the new water tower to signal
fire emergencies and to announce the noon hour each
day. A public drinking fountain was located in the
Main Street business area and Main Street was declared
a through street with stop signs at all intersections. It
was decided that the sale of cemetery lots must include
the purchase of perpetual care.
In 1960, the mayor’s annual pay was increased
from $200 to $600. Five and one half acres of land
were purchased from John Wormer on either side of
the creek, to be used for a park (Wakema Park). The
newly established Linn County Conservation Board
was granted a 100-year lease on the property by the
city. An agreement was drafted that provided for
construction of several recreational facilities by the
county in exchange for the town furnishing the land,
sewer and water, electricity and police protection.
In 1961, a contract was let for installation of the city’s sewer system, a major step in upgrading
the city, at a cost of $298,000. Water mains had to be altered first and all house water connections had
to converted to copper pipe. The sewer plant was completed in June. Street signs were purchased and
the Lions Club volunteered to put them in place.
In 1962, the mayor started drawing a salary of $100 per month. The council meeting room was
made available to all city organizations as a gathering place. Dyer’s 1st Addition to Center Point plat
was approved.
In 1963, George Thompson was hired as Utilities Superintendent for $350 a month and Harold
Dielzman was named Cemetery Sexton for $275. Also in this time period, pool table permits were
issued by the city for $25.00 a year. There were complaints of young boys playing cards at Cliff’s
Sporting Goods store and later these “glassy eyed boys” were observed a block from the school. The
Planning Commission was also established.
In 1965, water rates were reduced from 30 cents per 100 to 20 cents per 100, reversing the
increase by the previous Council. The Council approved a contract with the Linn County Sheriff’s
Department in July. An overhead stop light signal is installed at the corner of Washington and Main.
The well on old canning factory property is used when city wells are shut down for cleaning and
maintenance. A new well that is 62 feet deep is dug and a pump installed at a cost of $1,991. The city
agrees to a smaller building at Wakema Park than was called for in the Master Plan. Stanley Engineering
was hired to work on a Comprehensive Plan for the city.
In 1969, the Postmaster asks that the alley adjacent to the new post office be paved. An addition
to the city hall facilities is built at a cost of $19,799; the council and the library exchange rooms. The
Board of Adjustment is created. Property donated by the Fross family is considered for use as a park.
From 1970 to 1973, a “junk” car ordinance is passed. An ordinance related to acquiring natural
gas for residents and another ordinance related to “Health and Morals” is passed.
Ted Augustine was name was named “Man of the Year
Volunteer” in 1959. He served on the fire department
from 1945-64, and is still a member of the American
Legion. Here he is showm placing flags at the cem-
etery for Memorial Day.

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During 1974 to1978, a program for seal coating the city streets was initiated. Plans for a
community room were made and a proposal for this new $45,000 structure was put on the ballot. The
proposition passed overwhelmingly. An agreement with the Linn County Conservation Board was
finalized so improvements to Wakema Park could proceed. Two thousand dollars was set aside for the
summer recreation program for youth. The Fay Strait Family donated an early settlers log cabin; the
cabin was located adjacent to Wakema Park. A portion of Green Street was closed and used as an
addition to the park for an enlarged parking lot.
The mayor appointed a Center Point Bicentennial Committee and the city contributed $2,000
toward the celebration plans. In September of 1974, a $60,000 bond issue was passed to partially
finance street improvements; a contract was let for $189,000 to pave eight blocks of city streets with an
additional 16 blocks having curbs and gutters installed. A
contract for storm sewers was let for $10,155 and the four
blocks of one-way streets were black topped. Two sub division
plans were approved and a $40,000 grant was received for
special housing.
In 1979, Ordinance 173 was passed, which established
a Center Point Police Department.
During 1992 to 1996, a concerted effort was made to
clean up the city, attempting to rid it of “junk” cars, weeds,
brush, and litter. Citations were issued to persons making
improvements to their homes without applying for permits
from the city. The Council adopted a building code and a
housing inspector was hired. Mayor Beatty was the first mayor
to have his own office at City Hall, which he shared with county
deputies. It is recorded that he waived his compensation as
mayor, naming it, one time, to apply to a particular project
The agreement between the City and the Township created the Fire Agency, as it exists today,
with two appointed representatives from each entity forming a board with a fifth member selected by
those four. Steps were taken to eliminate the city police department and return to protection by the
county sheriff. The present city hall/public works building, located on Franklin Street, was acquired on
a ten-year contract.
In 2003, a Jordan Aquifer well was added to meet the city’s growing demands. Water can be
pumped from the 1600 foot deep well at a rate sufficient to fill the tower and reservoir in approximately
two hours.
The Post Office
Center Point’s Post Office was established on October 25, 1844. John Carr manned a stagecoach
mail route from Waterloo to Cedar Rapids. He traveled from Waterloo to Center Point in one day; the
next day he continued to Cedar Rapids. He also carried passengers on his route.
Samuel M. Brice performed the duties as the first Postmaster in 1855, working out of a home
where the present Post Office is located today. The first Post Office was a one story brick building built
by A. Manahan, in 1858, on the corner of State and Main streets.
In the 1870s, the office moved to a new two story brick building, located on the west side of
Main Street, south of State Street. The building was divided into two parts; the south side was used as
a variety store and the north side was used as the Post Office. Mrs. S. A. Rogers was postmaster at this
time.
Center Point Police officer Barb Roorda.

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Later the office was moved to a
building constructed by Whitson
Longsdale, on the east side of Main Street.
This structure was removed and the
building that houses Neighbor Insurance
was built. This building was also used as
a Post Office.
Before the railroad reached this
community, mail was transported to the
office by stagecoach, wagon, horseback
and boat. In 1875, the Burlington, Cedar
Rapids and Northern Railroad began
service to the community and the first
mail transportation by rail was
established.
On November 15, 1900, Rural
Free Delivery was established. Originally, the office had four rural routes that were later consolidated
to two routes in December 1928.
John Heverly was Postmaster until Ike (I.T.) Street took the job from 1915 to 1924. During this
time, the position of postmaster was a political appointment. If the President changed from Democratic
to Republican, the postmaster also changed. Earl Silver became postmaster when the President’s political
party changed. He held the position for approximately eight years. Another change in Presidents resulted
in the appointment of Willard Street to Postmaster. Under his tenure, a new Post Office was built in
1941, located on the west side of
Main Street where Paul Reveres
Pizza is located today, at 905 Main
Street.
From its establishment in
1844, the office remained fourth
class until January 1, 1907 when
it advanced to third class. On July
1, 1954, the office was advanced
to second class.
In 1970, the post office
was again relocated, this time to
a building constructed by Mr. Tom
Neenan. This post office, located
at 708 Main Street, continues to
be used today.
More recent Postmasters
include: Eugene Street, Jerry
Swafford from 1984 until 1992, and Reno Faust. Staff providing support to the postmasters includes
clerks as well as carriers. Carriers deliver the mail to Toddville and Urbana and halfway to Walker and
Central City. Residents living within a quarter mile of the post office must still go to the office to pick
up mail. Other town residents enjoy mail delivery.
--Vera Rhinehart Meyer, Dave Kircher
Post office in 1913. l-r Vernon Heverly, Edna Wayne and J. J. Heverly,
postmaster. Located where Neighbor Insurance is today.
Today’s post office at 708 Main Street. Built in 1970.

133
The First Street Lights
Some time during the late 1870s or early 80s, the town decided that some sort of street lighting
system was needed. A few kerosene burning lamps were purchased and placed at the corners of the
business district. Later they were extended to the residential part of town and set about three or four
blocks apart. The lamp was a square steel frame with glass enclosing a large wick, and mounted on a
ten foot post.
The oil for fuel was contained in a pint can that was
inserted upside down on the top of the lamp in such a manner
that the oil fed down to the wick. A full can was put on the
lamp and lit each evening by someone employed by the town.
Samuel Dunlap was the first person to fill this position.
Later Curt Roberts had a route for lighting and extinguishing
the streetlights in town. Their equipment consisted of a small
ladder, a can of kerosene, and draped around their shoulders
was a bandoleer or belt on which was hung the little fuel cans.
About twilight each evening, winter and summer, he could
be heard approaching by the clanking of these cans. It was
usually a signal for the urchins in the immediate neighborhood
to gather and follow old Sam for a few blocks to observe the
lighting operation.
He placed the little ladder against the post, mounted the
ladder, removed the empty can and replaced it with a full one,
lit the lamp, hung the empty can on his belt, picked up his
little ladder and went clanking off into the twilight to another
lamp to repeat the process. The lamp burned most of the night,
or until the little can of oil was consume, and it would
extinguish itself.
In searching through the Council proceedings from that era, the village lamplighter was paid a
salary of $9.50 per month.
The light from these lamps cast a very feeble glow compared to the lights of today, but they did
do much to help guide the late wayfarer over the wooden sidewalks and muddy paths around Center
Point up to about the year 1911.
Parks
Wakema Park was named after a local Native American named Wakema. Wakema was known
for his colorful exploits that gave the town residents “something to talk about.” Residents remember
one winter when Wakema and approximately 25 to 30 other Native Americans were camped outside of
town. Apparently, their “celebration” prompted the local town marshal to lock some of the men in jail
“to cool off.”
When the Linn County Conservation Board wanted to establish a park in the northwest part of
the county in 1961, the City of Center Point offered a 5-acre parcel of land. The Board signed a 99-year
lease with the city. The city agreed to provide the land, water, sewage disposal, electricity, police
protection and a supervised playground and recreation program. The Conservation Board agreed to
Corner street light, lit by the village
lamplighter every evening.

134
develop and maintain the park. Original plans for the park included a fully equipped lodge, wading
pool, playground, picnic area, and basketball court.
Before the plans could be implemented, the Conservation Director left his position. His
replacement was reluctant to implement the plans because he felt that since city residents would primarily
use the park, responsibility for development and maintenance of the park should reside with the city. In
1961, the city purchased playground equipment. In the late 1960s, an agreement between the city and
the county amended the original plan for the park, and a smaller pavilion was constructed than had
originally been envisioned.
Park improvements accelerated in the 1970s. A committee consisting of Mayor Eileen Neenan,
council members Holman and Castek and citizens Robert Dillon, Robert Pepin and Wayne Wyeth met
with the Conservation Board. The Board was receptive to the listing of priorities for improvement at
the park that were advanced by committee members. The “Fort McGonigle” play structure was added
in 1975, footbridges were added in 1974 and the tennis courts and horseshoe courts were added in
1974.
The Fort and the footbridges were removed in 1992 because of poor condition due to the use of
untreated wood in the structures. The wading pool was removed from the site in 2000.
Fross Park was named for Ada Fross who lived on Summit Street. She was a patient of Dr.
Kenneth Andersen for 20 or more years. Dr. Andersen describes Ada as “a sweet and charming elderly
widow lady.” She had two sons, Hollis, the oldest, and Elmo, who was the youngest. When her sons
were young, Mrs. Fross had a herd of dairy cows. She made money with the help of her sons, delivering
milk to the residents of Center Point. The dairy barn was
located on her city property, so in order to take the cows to
pasture, the animals were herded up Summit and Main
streets until they arrived at the Fross pasture.
Eventually Mrs. Fross passed away, and her sons
bequeathed the land that is now Fross Park to Center Point.
Mrs. Fross and her sons had jointly made this decision.
Initially, the city council rejected the gift.
Dr. K. Andersen read in the city council proceedings
that the mayor had advised against accepting the land
because it would entail too much work and expense. The
mayor at that time was Blake Shipton who was also a local
attorney. Dr. K. Andersen remembers calling Dr. Oliver
Whitcomb who was on the city council and also a local
veterinary. He urged Dr. Whitcomb to use his influence to
overturn the decision. Dr. K. Andersen remembers arguing
that cutting the grass and putting up a sign designating the
site as a park were the only expenses associated with the
property. Fortunately the city council reconsidered their
position and accepted the land.
When Hollis and Elmo died, each bequeathed money for the park in their wills. Additional
money was made available when contributions made by the brothers to an endowment fund were
refunded. The money was used to acquire more land for the park. The park has a pavilion, picnic area,
playground equipment and ball diamonds.
Ada Fross and Emma Hurr in 1873. Fross Park
was named for Ada by her sons who donated the
farm to the city.

135
Fross Park received a $9,000 grant for park development from Land and Water Funds in the
1970s. The money was used to construct a baseball diamond. Today the park has two ball diamonds,
two pavilions, a playground, soccer fields, frisbee golf course and plans for more.
--Dr. Kenneth Andersen
The Cedar Valley Nature Trail was established in 1978 on land purchased from the WCFN
Railroad. The trail follows the railroad bed from Cedar Rapids to Waterloo. The trail was dedicated in
1984. It is now a part of The Discovery Trail Across America. See the “General History” section of
the book for more information.
Fire Department
The local fire department was
organized early in 1880. The equipment
consisted of a hose cart and pumper. The
firemen pulled the apparatus by hand.
The town council, meeting on January
1890, took the necessary steps to purchase
a fire engine. The Rumsey Hand Fire
Engine included a hose cart, a gong and
four hundred feet of fire hose. The cost
of the equipment was $1,000. An article
in the local newspaper solicited for
volunteer firemen. It would take about
thirty-five men to man the engine and
hose cart.
Cisterns dug in various locations
served as the source of water supply for
the firemen. Unfortunately, these cisterns
were frequently dry when a fire started,
so firemen had to resort to a bucket
Fross Park located on north edge of town across from the cemetery. Picture taken 2004.
Old 1884 pumper being pulled in 1954 Centennial Parade.

136
brigade. Cisterns were only useful if the fires
occurred near the cisterns. If a fire broke out too
far from the cistern, the engine was of little value
because it carried only a small amount of water.
Consequently, most fires resulted in the total
destruction of the building in these early days.
The fire station was co-located with the
town hall just east of Main Street on State Street.
The building included a community room with a
stage upstairs. Programs, town meetings, and pet
and chicken shows were hosted at this location.
Frank Grubbs was hired to blow the fire
whistle every day at exactly noon and to maintain
a special phone for fire emergency calls for $20
per month in the 1930s. After getting the
volunteer fire department off to a fire, he answered
countless calls telling curious folks where the fire
was.
A fire call came into a designated person’s home. That person was responsible for blowing the
siren until the volunteers answered the call. One whistle was a fire in town, two whistles meant the fire
was in the country. Today the whistle keeps blowing until sufficient firemen arrive at the station.
Mandatory retirement age for the volunteers is 55. Volunteer fireman must also reside in the town.
Fifty years ago the volunteer fire department consisted of two fire trucks and the uniform of the
day was a raincoat. Now the station is equipped with six trucks and full safety uniforms. In 1957 the
fire department added an ambulance, and the volunteers manned it with just a Red Cross first aid
training course. During the 1990s, the Fire Department and the Ambulance Service became separate
entities.
Center Point Ambulance Service, Inc.
The first call for ambulance service was September 28, 1956. Members of the fire department
provided the service. The original members included: Ted Augustine, Kenny Moore, Dale Matheny,
Raymond Durow, Vern Carver, Everett
Kratzer, Jack Sholes, Lawrence Benion,
Merle Newman, and Dave Craig.
The ambulance was originally
parked at the Skelly Station, which is now
Rhinehart’s Texaco, because there was no
space at the fire station. Currently the
ambulance service is housed between the
library and the fire department in the old
city hall building. Membership in 1956 was
approximately 8 to 10 members. Currently
the membership has a total of 29 volunteers
(4 drivers, 16 EMT-B’s, 7 paramedics and 2 nurses). Current members come from Center Point, Marion,
Alburnett, Troy Mills, and Walker.
Ambulances used in 2004.
In 1956 a new fire department rescue car was purchased
with the results of two years of fund raisers. Examining
the respirator (l-r) are Chief Laurence Benion, Raymond
Durow and Jack Sholes.

137
During the mid 1990s, the ambulance service and fire department became separate organizations.
The ambulance service became a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, which is owned by the membership.
Fees for services, private donations, and fund-raisers fund the ambulance service. No tax dollars are
received.
Volunteers are essential to the ambulance service. The average volunteer spends over 150
hours a year with the ambulance service. Skill levels in 1956 were not defined, however, first aid
training was a plus. Currently the state mandates that at least one EMT-B must be on every ambulance
call. Certification as an EMT-B takes several hundred hours of training. Additionally, EMT-Bs must
complete state required continuing education every two years in order to renew certifications. Center
Point Ambulance Service is currently staffed 24 hours a day at the EMT-B level. At least half of the
calls are staffed with paramedics.
Calls have increased from 73 calls in 1956 to 240 calls in 2003. In 1976 the service
expanded to include two ambulances. With population increases in the service area and increasing
call volume, a third ambulance will need to be added soon.
The ambulance service will require a new building in the very near future. Fundraising and
land acquisition is already underway. The members are eagerly anticipating the move.
--Terri Butterfield
Public Library
In the mid 1950s, Dr. Kenneth Andersen and his wife, Marilyn, became interested in the
establishment of a library. They organized a group of residents and the library movement was underway.
Some people felt that the basement of the doctor’s office would be a good location for the library. Dr.
Andersen discovered many towns had combined their city hall, firehouse and libraries into one complex;
his idea was accepted.
The first Library Board meeting was held July 16, 1959. The original Board included the
following people: Clarence Baily, Lulu Belle McGinnis, Eileen Neenan, Mrs. Ura Neville, Vera Rhinehart,
Blake Shipton and Eugene Street. The Board is comprised of volunteers who meet one time per month
Library today at 1025 Franklin Street.

138
to oversee the operation of the
library including hiring staff and
preparing budgets. One of the
first actions of the Board was to
establish an annual library card
fee of one dollar.
Children’s books were
borrowed from the State
Traveling Library, providing
five to six hundred books. The
adult materials were rented
from the Cedar Rapids Library
for a rental fee of thirty cents.
Glenn Baker made the shelves
for the books, donating his time.
In return, he was awarded free
use of the library for the next
thirty years.
Within a couple of years,
the Library had a large enough
collection that the rental of materials was no longer needed. Eventually improvements were made and
shelves were added to house the expanding collection.
In 1985, Urbana and Walker contracted with Center Point so their residents could use the library.
The Center Point Library now serves close to 4,000 clients. It is the fourth busiest library in the county.
The Center Point Library has outgrown its 845 square feet of space in the corner of the ambulance
and fire station complex. It will soon relocate to 720 Main Street in the old bank building.
--Donna Turner
Librarian, Donna Turner, reading stories to children.

139
Family Biographies
Aurner
Osker Aurner was a Civil War veteran who married Jane Robinson Sherman, the widow of
his friend Levi Sherman. Before their son Oscar was born, Osker drowned in Mud Creek near
Vinton while seining for fish with three other people.
Oscar Levi Aurner married Ione Wilson. Her parents, Enoch Wilson & Elizabeth Lapp Casner
were considered Urbana pioneers, having traveled there by train and horse and wagon from
Pennsylvania.
The couple had seven children; Fred was the youngest,
born on March 6, 1910 in Urbana, IA. His parents disagreed
over his middle name. Oscar wanted him to be named “Levi”
since that was his middle name. Ione wanted to name him
“Lafayette” after her brother who had died at a young age. They
compromised and his middle “name” was the letter L with no
period as it was not an initial!
The dark-haired, blue-eyed boy grew up in the country
between Urbana and Shellsburg. He attended Lower Stone
School. He later tried a bit of boxing and played some “town
team” baseball.
Fred married Millie Dodge on February 2, 1935 in
Burlington, IA. They were married in a joint ceremony along
with friends Walter Seltrecht and Anna Vaupel. The couples
remained close friends the rest of their lives. Fred and Walt
were well known in the area for coon hunting and fishing. They
lived a half-mile apart west of Center Point on the Ridge Road
for many years.
Fred and Millie began their married life south of Urbana, but moved to Center Point by 1941.
They farmed a 160-acre farm using a Farmall F12 and horses. Later, Fred purchased a new Farmall C.
The farm included livestock and a large garden. Millie had chickens including a brown
leghorn hen that would “sing” to her. Coonhounds, cats, hogs, and even a goat lived there. Horses
were used for farming as well as recreation. Millie’s father, Elmer Dodge, always preferred the
horses to tractors.
Three daughters were born while Fred and Millie lived on the farm: Joyce Carroll, Freda
Ione, and Beth Ellen. Fred’s health began to slip and the family moved up the hill to a smaller farm.
A fourth daughter died from complications at birth.
Fred L. and Millie Dodge Aurner 1938

140
Millie was well known in Center Point. If you ever ate a piece of pie at the 150 Gulf Stop,
there’s a good chance that she baked it. She did wallpapering, cleaned Eldon Dennison’s insurance
office and cleaned People’s Bank. She helped care for Inez Wormer, an old friend of her parents, and a
Una Jones’ father. She also taxied people who could no longer drive. She was a long time devoted and
active member of Cedar Ridge Free Methodist Church.
Fred passed away on October 25, 1964 of multiple health problems. Millie went suddenly and
peacefully on September 7, 1999. They are buried together with their infant daughter in the Urbana
cemetery.
Beth Ellen and her husband, Dave Seltrect, still live in Center Point on Cedar Ridge Road.
-- Joyce Aurner Schultz
Bartleson
James M. Bartleson was born in 1835 in Pennsylvania. After his parents died in 1850 and 1853,
he set out for the west, settling in Center Point in 1855. The town at that time was an isolated village of
25 souls including a general store operated by John Carr. James first obtained work under Mr. Carr as
a stagecoach driver on the mail route between Cedar Rapids and Waterloo. He must have frequented
the Washington House that Jesse Grubbs ran as a stagecoach stop.
James Bartelson is mentioned repeatedly in the early Center Point history as being involved in
the mercantile business for 69 years. He began by managing the John Carr store, which became known
as Bartelson General Store. He married the Carr’s daughter Amanda in 1858. From 1857 to 1879
James ran the Bartelson General Store at the SE corner of Main and Washington streets. This was the
beginning of over 100 years of grocery stores on this corner. Then James turned his interest to supplying
all the needs of farmers and he opened Bartelson Farm & Implement Store. The business was located
near the southwest corner of State and Water streets.
James and Amanda raised two children, Ida and Emma. A son, John W., died at the age of six.
Ida Bartleson married William Lavell who, in 1909, was proprietor of the business his father-in-law
had run. Their three children were Jim, Emma and John. Emma remained in Center Point her whole
life where she taught school and raised her nephew Carr. Carr Lavell married Gretchen Thompson
(also of Center Point) before moving away to teach and later work for the State Department.
Emma Bartleson married Allen (Tone) Dunbar who, along with their daughter, Maude, ran the
dry goods store in Center Point until his death in 1957. James Bartelson died in 1924 at the age of 88.
--Katherine Rand, Patricia Grubbs Rand, Margaret Rand Weaver
Benson
Doyle and Vera Benson and their nine children moved to Center Point in 1948 to a small house
north of Center Point on land, which is now Rolling Acres Golf Course. All nine children, six girls and
three boys, graduated from Center Point High School and seven of them married Center Point High
School graduates.
Doyle and Vera both worked in Cedar Rapids, Doyle at Link Belt Speeder and Vera at the Kozy
Inn Restaurant, for many years. They also raised farm crops and registered short horn cattle. In 1962
the two youngest sons suggested that they convert the 23-acre farm into a golf course. A driving range
was opened first, and then in 1964, a 9-hole golf course was opened. The new golf course included
some of the Benson’s land combined with approximately 27 leased acres. Both sons went to college at
Northeast Missouri State and later left their studies to fulfill military obligations, which left the task of
maintaining the golf course to the parents. Knowing nothing about golf course maintenance, but learning

141
while doing, they took on the big task. Moving rocks, planting
trees, constant mowing, and keeping the grass on the greens smooth
and free of blight
and diseases was a never ending task for the Bensons. Their
business grew mainly from word of mouth, advertising and season
passes available at $75 for a single and $150 per family.
Getting acquainted with a large number of people was what they
enjoyed most. All nine children and their spouses and most
grandchildren and great-grandchildren play golf. Four daughters
and three granddaughters play in the Rolling Acres Ladies League. A memorial tree for Doyle and Vera
stands at the number 4-tee box and there is a flagpole in front of the clubhouse in memory of Vera.
In 1969, the Rolling Acres Golf Course was sold to Alfred and Linda Stark. Doyle and Vera
enjoyed retirement at Marion Mobile Home Park until Doyle passed away in 1982 and Vera in 1995.
The house the family lived in was burned down and the original machine shed removed in 2001 to
make room for a new maintenance building. The Benson descendants and spouses now total 106.
Violet (class of 1948) married Raymond Haars (class of 1944) and they have three children all
graduated from Center Point: Douglas, Judy, and Jayne. After living in Center Point for many years
they moved to Marion. They are still active in the Center Point Christian Church.
Velma (1950) married Vernon Roseberry (1951) and they have 2 children both graduated from
Center Point, Debra and Cindi. Their residence is located at 1321 Main Street in Center Point. Velma
was a charter member of the Center
Point Lioness Club and has been
involved in the organization of the all
school reunions and the school
museum. She is active in the Center
Point Christian Church presently
serving as financial secretary.
Bob (1952) married Virginia
Dauenbaugh (1951) and they have 4
children: Steven, Sheryl, Alan, and
Annette. Since their retirement they
have moved back to Center Point after
many years of living in the Rowley/
Independence area.
Helen (1954) married Ed Wall
(1948) and they have five children:
Kathy, Dianne, Janice, Randy, and
Kelly. They live in Richardson, Texas.
Anna Mae (1955)married Dick
Comried (1956) and they later divorced. She lives in Richardson, Texas and spends the winter in
Mission, Texas.
Pat (1956) married Jim Sherman (1954) and they have three children all graduated from Center
Point: Rick, Sue, and Tina. Pat had worked for 28 years at Dr. Kenneth Andersen’s office in Center
Point before going to work for Jim at Farm Bureau. Pat was a Charter member of the Center Point
Lioness Club and was involved in the organization of the all school reunions and school museum. She
is active in the Center Point United Methodist Church and is past treasurer. They now spend the winter
in Mission, Texas and still live in Center Point.
Vera and Doyle Benson building their
golf course in 1964.
The Benson family, July 2000
back l-r: Velma, Barb, Helen, Pat, Violet, Ann. front l-r: Kenny, Bill, Bob.

142
Barbara (1960) married Wayne Carver (1957) and they have two children, Cary and Cristin.
They spend their winters in Mission, Texas and live in a condo in Marion.
Bill (1962) married Robyn Bull and they have two children, Gina and Jennifer. They live in
Shellsburg.
Kenny (1964) married Coralee Fine and they had three children: Laura, Teresa, and Kenny Jr.
They later divorced and Kenny married Beverly Duart. They had one child, Patrick. Kenny and Beverly
divorced and Kenny married Pat Wingate. They live in Middletown, Ohio.
--Pat Sherman
Bliss
George C. Bliss, born in 1841, came to Center
Point in 1855 at age 14, with his parents Wilson and
Julia Bliss and siblings Elizabeth and Edgar. Wilson
acquired land in Center Point and was a carpenter and
furniture maker. He was also in contracting and building.
Wilson died in 1880, age 67, and Julia died in 1894.
In July, 1862, at age of 21, George enlisted in the
Eighteenth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, but was soon
transferred to Company B. Twentieth Regiment. His
first engagement was the battle of Prairie Grove,
Arkansas. Shortly after his first battle, he was captured
at Fayetteville, AR, and held as a prisoner for a time.
Later, he was exchanged before the siege of Fort Morgan.
At the time of his capture he was detailed as commissary
sergeant to a hospital, the patients of which were all
captured, paroled and exchanged. After his exchange, he rejoined his regiment at Mustang Island,
Texas, and later took part in the siege of Fort Morgan and the charge on Fort Blakely. At the close of the
war, he went to Mobile, Alabama, where he was honorably discharged and mustered out at Clinton,
Iowa, July 30, 1865. For about a month, in 1862, he was ill in the hospital at Springfield, Missouri,
before going to Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Center Point Community Historical Society owns George’s
diaries of the war. The diary had been reprinted and is available for viewing by the public at the
Historical Museum.
After leaving the army, Mr. Bliss returned to his home in Center Point. In December 1866, he
opened a general store. The store’s inventory included a line of dry goods, clothing, queens ware,
groceries, boots and shoes. His strict honesty and correct business principles soon secured for him a
large circle of friends and patrons, making it necessary to expand his business. In 1878 he erected a
brick building, which consisted of two stories and a basement. It is still standing today at the northwest
corner of Main and Washington streets.
George C. Bliss was united in marriage in 1872 with Miss Frances L Bartelson. She was born
in 1853. They became the parents of three children: Arthur (1874), Willis (1876), and George C., Jr.
(1882).
George took an interest in agricultural pursuits and farmed 287 acres near Center Point. He also
had several dwelling houses in the town in addition to two stores. Socially he belonged to A.O.U.W.
Lodge No. 126 and G.A.R. Denison Post No. 244. He was a member of the Congregational Church and
served on the Board of Aldermen.
--Teresa Scheeler
George C. and Francis Bartelson Bliss

143
Brookman
Harry Brookman first worked as
a bookkeeper at the First National Bank.
When the bank closed during the money
crisis of 1928, Harry took a job as a
bookkeeper for the Garrison Creamery.
Harry and Enid Brookman were married
on December 24, 1928 in Washington,
Iowa. They kept their marriage a secret
until May of 1929 when Enid graduated
from high school in Norway, Iowa. The
couple set up housekeeping in Garrison
until they moved to the house at 912
Franklin Street where they lived for the
rest of their married lives.
Harry worked his way up the
ladder at the Center Point Canning
Factory until he became the last owner of the business, which closed in 1948. He also ran a Skelly Oil
station across the street from their house. Later, he was employed by Farmers Hybrid as a supervisor
over 33 counties in Iowa, 4 counties in Missouri, 7 counties in Minnesota, and 8 counties in Wisconsin.
Never content to be working at only one job, Harry also became the Center Point Town Clerk in 1960.
Harry and Enid were both members of Eastern Star, First Christian Church, the Centennial
Club, and the Historical Society. Enid was a charter member of the Modern Book Club. Harry was
active in Golden Age Housing, Center Point Firemen, Center Point Booster Club, Vienna Lodge #142,
and played in a saxophone quartet. They both joined the church choir in 1946, and they served in many
capacities in their church including the Fall Festival, the Pulpit Committees, and Sunday school.
Harry became a scorekeeper for the basketball games in 1935 and continued that job until he
was sidelined following open-heart surgery. He managed the “Skelly Oilers”, a girls’ semi-pro basketball
team. Harry was also known as the town historian.
Harry and Enid had two daughters both of whom live near Walthill, Nebraska. Janet is married
to Paul Kruse, and Sydney is married to John Kruse. Harry and Enid have five grandchildren and six
great-grandchildren. Harry died at home at the age of 88 years in 1994, and Enid died in 2000 at the age
of 89 years at West Point Living Center in Nebraska.
--Janet Kruse
Calvin
It was an exciting time when Harold and Gertrude Calvin moved to Center Point in 1940.
Gertrude had many connections to this little town. Her grandfather Reverend Stuart C. Bretnall and his
wife, Nellie, lived here from 1905 – 1908. Reverend Stuart was the minister when the current Methodist
Church was built. Their daughter, Lillian graduated from high school here as did her three older brothers.
Piano lessons from Mabel Carr weekly for several years brought her to Center Point. Lillian married
Fred Fishel and for several years in their late lives lived in an apartment in the home today of Dr.
Kenneth and Marilyn Andersen.
Enid Brookman Harry Brookman

144
Harold Calvin’s parents, Frank and Mattie Calvin
purchased the Frank Newman farm just northeast of
town and lived there several years. Harold and Gertrude
farmed southeast of Center Point. Harold also had
several other jobs working for LJ Dennis Elevator, the
Linn County Road Department and carpentering.
Gertrude kept the home fires burning as their daughters,
Ann and Sue, grew. Later she was china and gift buyer
for Armstrongs Department store for 18 years.
Ann graduated from St. Lukes Hospital School of
Nursing, married Fred Peitzman and moved to
California. They have three children and six
grandchildren. Sue graduated from Iowa State
University and lives with her husband, Richard Harvey, in Indiana. They have two grandchildren.
Harold and Gertrude have always been active in church and other organizations in Center Point.
In 2003 they celebrated their 65
th
anniversary and are now living at 1333 Main Street.
Carman
David Carman and Erma Elgin were married on May 24, 1942. They had five children: Jack,
Patricia (Wulff), Dick, Pamela (Denison), and Barbara (Morrison). After Dave’s military service they
lived in Center Point and also on an acreage north of town. Dave was a carpenter and built many
houses and business buildings in Center Point and surrounding areas. The buildings he constructed in
Center Point include: Dr. Kenneth Andersen’s Summit Street office; the This-L-Do Café and DX Station;
Heins Trucking; Nelson Cabinet’s building; and the LJL Hall. Erma was a homemaker, schoolteacher
and office worker.
David Carman’s parents were Franklin and Ermal (Burt) Carman. They married Oct. 12, 1912.
The couple first resided around Palo, but later moved to farms around Center Point. When they retired,
they moved into town. They had seven children: Bertha (Nelson), Ethyl (Parbs), Clifford, Roy, David,
Charles and Beulah (Dlask). Ermal was a homemaker and Frank was a farmer.
Erma Carman’s parents were Elry Elgin and Beulah Boyles. They were married July 12, 1919.
They had six children: Erma (Carman), Bernetta (died in infancy), Ervin, Marvin, Lyle, and Robert.
Elry was a maintenance worker for the county. Beulah was a homemaker. They lived most of their life
in town.
--Erma Carman
Condon
Frank “Dude” Condon was born in 1869, east of Center Point, to Washington and Margaret
Shaw Condon. In 1888, Frank married Ethel Hoglan, who was born in Greens Grove in 1867 to Jacob
and Harriet Hollenbeck Hoglan. Grandchildren fondly recall a story where Frank drove his grocery
wagon past Ethel’s house in Greens Grove and she waved a red handkerchief at him. They married in
1888 and celebrated their 70
th
wedding anniversary in 1958.
After marriage, Frank worked in a printing shop for a few years, but by 1899 he opened a store
located at 818 Main Street. Frank and Ethel ran the store for the next fifty years. The couple raised
seven children and then continued to help their children as adults. One of their married children and
family returned to live with Frank and Ethel from 1933 to 1939. The grandchildren were very aware of
Harold and Gertrude Calvin

145
the “tough times” but felt
somewhat insulated from the
rest of the world in Center Point.
They enjoyed sports, going to
Cedar Rapids for a movie and a
Maidrite, and other simple
pleasures. This was the Kinnick
era of football at Iowa. They
remember climbing into
Sammy Lewis’s covered truck
with numerous friends and
driving to the game, courtesy of
the “Knothole Club.”
The grandchildren also fondly
recall other memories from the
1930s including Flunk Day, the
July 4
th
celebration, the merry-
go-round, Wednesday night band concerts, Memorial Day parades, Halloween pranks, candy baskets
on May Day, and playing games such as kick-the-can.
The challenging economic period of the 1930s caused the family to grow closer together. There
was plenty to eat, Sunday School was tolerable, school was enjoyable, and radio programs (Lone Ranger
baseball, Joe Lewis fights, Sherlock Holmes) were exciting. Work was available including canning
factory “runs”, newspaper delivery, lawn mowing, and ice hauling. The grandchildren also remember
the generosity and the “mixed blessings” from being surrounded by grandparents, uncles, and aunts
--Bob Holloway, Ann Holloway Huxol
Cook
Donald Ray Cook was born to Michael and Rhonda Hagerman Cook on December 14, 1919, on
a farm near Urbana, Iowa. He had three older brothers, one older sister, one younger brother, and one
younger sister. Don attended the local school and when he was eighteen, he “rode the rails” to Florida
in search of employment. He remained in Florida for
a short time before returning to Iowa.
Mary Eleanor Hoglan was the daughter of Herman
and Inez Van Note Hoglan. She was born on
September 3, 1919, south of Center Point in the rural
Green’s Grove neighborhood. She was the youngest
of five children, having four older brothers. Mary was
a graduate of Center Point High School and the
University of Iowa.
Don and Mary met on New Year’s Eve at a dance
in Center Point when Mary selected Don for a Ladies’
Choice. Don had been watching her during the dance
and so Mary’s friends encouraged her to approach him!
Don confessed that he did not know how to dance but
asked if they could talk instead. The two were wed
several years later on April 26, 1942, at the First
Frank “Dude” Condon family on a picnic c. 1910. l-r: Hoyt, Ethel, Frank, Hattie,
Clarence, Tom, Myrtle, Mable. Notice white horse and wagon.
Don and Mary Cook

146
Christian Church in Center Point, Iowa. The couple had two children: Kathleen Rae born December
25, 1945, in Coral Gabels, Florida, and Dwight William born July 8, 1948, in Cedar Rapids.
Don served with the Air Force during World War II and The Korean Conflict and was a member
of the American Legion Dye-Benion Post No. 297. Don earned a living by farming. The family farm
near Center Point was a bustling enterprise with milk cows, chickens, oats, corn, soybeans, vegetables,
and flowers growing in profusion. Blue Creek, which flows through the farm’s pasture, was a fun filled
gathering place for Kathleen and Dwight as well as neighborhood children. Don was also an insurance
agent and a school bus driver in his younger years. He is reputed to have made the best homemade ice
cream in Eastern Iowa! Donald Ray Cook died on October 17, 1989, following a lengthy illness.
Mary taught Home Economics and English in Hartwick, Atkins, and Center Point for 33 years.
She was an elder, Sunday school teacher, and youth leader at the Center Point First Christian Church.
She was also a Gold Star Mother, Chaplain and Americanism Chairwoman of the American Legion
Auxiliary Dye-Benion Post No. 297. Mary was a member of the Center Point Community Historical
Society, Center Point Garden Club, Green’s Grove Sewing Circle, Bank Director at Center Point Bank
& Trust Company, and served the Center Point Public Library as president and board member. She also
served for six years in the Christian Women’s Fellowship Commission of the Christian Church in the
Upper Midwest and was a member of the University of Iowa Alumni Association and Director’s Club
at the University. Mary Eleanor Hoglan Cook died on April 6, 2002, after a short illness.
The couple’s son, Dwight, was a graduate of Center Point Consolidated School and Northeast
Missouri State in Kirksville. He was married to Peggy Stempel of Ollie, Iowa, on August 7, 1971.
Dwight was lost over Laos on September 21, 1972.
--Kathleen Rae Cook
Denison
Johnathan Denison, Sr. was among the early settlers of Linn County. He came to America from
Ireland and lived in West Virginia and Ohio, later coming to Benton County where he died December 3,
1853. Johnathan Denison, Jr. settled on a homestead three and one-half miles west of Center Point.
Some of this land is
still occupied by his
descendents, Alan
and Pam Denison.
The farm is located at
4730 Urbana Road.
The following
descendents have
lived on the Denison
Homestead.
Johnathan Denison,
Jr. and his wife Sarah
Holleck were married
in 1845 and to this
union were born ten
children. William
Jasper Denison was
one of these children
1930s Front row l-r: Blaine Denison, Edwin Sawyer, Alice Sawyer, Lorene Sawyer, Dora
Denison, Nancy McIntyre Second row l-r: Leo Dean Denison, Stanley Davis, John Caldwell,
Gladys Denison, Hulda Sawyer, Doyle Hunter, Howard Sawyer, Doris Sawyer, Sam Hunter.

147
and he married Philemon Liberty. From their union were born
five children, Maude, Bernice, Delia, Blaine and Logan.
Blaine Denison married Flora Bascum who died in
childbirth. He later married Gladys Caldwell and four children
were born to this union, Audrey, Leah, Leo Dean and Dora
Lee. Blaine and Gladys lived on the homestead farming until
their retirement at which time Leo Dean and his wife, Darlene
Watts, began farming it. To their union were born four children,
Richard, Robert, Alan and Diana. Alan Denison married
Pamela Carman and to their union was born three children,
dawn, Kelly and James. Alan and Pam began farming the
homestead when Leo Dean and Darlene retired from farming
in 1989.
Blue Creek runs through the homestead. This
section of land has long been referred to as “Denison Bot-
toms.” The Denisons have always been farmers raising
grain and livestock. The present farm has been divided
many times since its humble beginnings. Once it was
divided by the railroad; an entity deemed necessary by area farmers to haul grain
to market. Next it was divided by Interstate 380 which runs directly through the original farm.
Then, with the passing of time, the railroad was abandoned, and is now replaced with the Cedar
Valley Bike Trail. In addition, a few parcels of land have been added to the original acreage.
Denison Bottoms has been in the Denison family since 1845 and it has served generations of
Denisons well, providing each generation with a love of the land and a sincere appreciation of farm life.
--Pam Denison
Dennis
Aubert Z. and Mary Dennis were the proud parents of a son, L. J. Dennis, born March 25, 1882,
on a farm approximately four miles south of Walker, Iowa. He joined an older sister Luella Mae. L. J.
would recount how he and Luella would hide under the bed when Native Americans would ride near
their farm.
In the early years of the new century, L. J.
courted Gertrude Mae Wormer. Gertrude
was born on May 11, 1880, in Center Point,
daughter of John and Anna Wormer.
Gertrude (Gertie) was the sister of John and
Jesse Wormer, who owned Wormer Brothers’
Chevrolet in Center Point. L. J. and Gertie
were married on February 18, 1904, under
the carved woodwork of the bay window in
the home of Gertie’s mother, Anna. Their
50
th
wedding anniversary reception was held
in the same location during Center Point’s
centennial year. A highlight of their first year
of marriage was a trip to the 1904 St. Louis
World’s Fair; a souvenir ticket for the Ferris
Mr. and Mrs. L. J. Dennis 1954
50th Wedding Anniversary
Leo Dean and Darlene (Watts) Denison, c.
WWII.

148
wheel was found in a Gertie’s photo album. To this union were born three children: Orval, Keith, and
Annadean. The two sons preceded their parents in death.
During the early years of their marriage, L. J. and Gertie lived above a hardware store in Walker
that was owned and run by L. J. In 1913, L. J. purchased the grain elevator in Center Point from
members of the Wormer family. At that time, he and Gertie moved to Center Point, living with Gertie’s
mother at 1003 Franklin Street. (They both continued to reside in the house until their respective
deaths.)
The original grain elevator, built by J. F. Wormer in 1901, was a wooden structure that was
destroyed by fire during the early morning hours of February 15, 1958; the building was replaced by a
poured-concrete structure. L. J. remained in the grain elevator business known as L. J. Dennis & Son,
along with his son Keith and son-in-law William Bull, until his death. William Bull and Keith’s wife,
Irma Dennis, continued to operate L.J. Dennis & Son until their retirements in the 1980s.
L. J. served his community as a member of the Center Point School Board and was a charter
member of the Center Point Lions Club.
The First Christian Church in Center Point played a significant role in the lives of L. J. and
Gertie. They were members of Class No. 8, a Sunday school class whose members along with
theirchildren would gather fortnightly at a member’s home for a potluck dinner. L. J. was an elder for
27 years. He was the Sunday school superintendent for 27 years, and for many more years was the song
leader for Sunday school opening exercises. In fact, singing was one of L. J.’s passions. He and
another church member, Clara Ashlock, sang duets at funeral services for many years. L. J.’s daughter,
Annadean, joined the group during her late teen years as their accompanist.
During the Sunday school opening exercise on July 9, 1961, after leading the song, “My God
and I”, L. J. suffered a heart attack, dying immediately. Thus, his life ended with his doing what he
loved, singing praise to his God.
In the vernacular of the 21
st
century, Gertie would be described as the “quiet, behind-the-scenes
person”. She tended to her duties as a mother and homemaker. She had a green thumb as evidenced by
the African violets, which at one time exceeded one hundred plants, and other houseplants she displayed
in her home. During her later years, she enjoyed crocheting potholders, and marveled at man being in
space. Gertie died peacefully in her sleep on January 16, 1972.
--Dennis W. Bull, grandson
Dennison
Lee S. Dennison was born in 1877, one of eleven children born
to Stokley and Judith Ann Dennison who lived on a farm three miles
west of Center Point. Lee attended the schools of this community and
grew to his manhood. In 1898 he was united in marriage to Miss
Nellie Bell Staton. They became the parent of sons Lorren, Eldon and
Vernon.
In 1915 Lee Dennison established the Dennison and Beatty
mortuary. For 25 years he was engaged in this business as a mortician
and funeral director until failing health made him retire. Lee, at age
71, passed away in 1948.
Lee and Nellie’s son, Eldon, was born in 1903. In 1930 he was
married to Fern Hayes. Eldon operated Eldon Dennison Insurance
Agency in Center Point for over 40 years. Eldon started in the business
at the age of 18 years old by writing insurance for his brother, Loren,
Eldon Dennison in his insurance
office 1950s

149
and then in an insurance business in Central City. Eldon sold his first car insurance policy to fellow
businessman L. J. Dennis. His first office was located north of the Bliss building. Later he moved to
the office at 820 Main Street where today in 2004 is the Neighbor Insurance office.
In January 1963, Stanley Zieser joined the insurance agency with Eldon as a partner. Eldon was
very active in the community, serving as chairman of the Centennial Committee in 1954. He was also
active in the First Christian Church, Vienna Lodge No. 142, A.F. & A.M., Order of Eastern Star, Knight
of Phythis Lodge and a charter member of the Lions Club. On March 22, 1963, Eldon passed away and
his wife kept the business going with Stan who eventually bought the business. Eldon was known as
the town historian and we can thank him for the many records of the town’s history that we have today.
He acquired many of the photographs taken by Fairbanks Photography Studio. He also collected the
old Center Point newspapers dating back to 1870s. Most of these collections are on display at the
Center Point Historical Society Depot Museum.
--Teresa Scheeler
Dodge
Warren William Dodge was born
on March 11, 1842 in Erie County, Pa. He
was the second child of Warren and
Almyra Badger Dodge. His father was a
chair maker. By the time he was twenty
years old, Warren William had migrated
west to Manlius, Bureau County, IL.
On August 6, 1862, Warren
William enlisted in the Union Army as a
member of Company C, Eighty-Eighth
Infantry Illinois Volunteers, known as the
“Second Board of Trade Regiment.” The
infantry was part of the Army of the
Cumberland, engaging in the Battle of
Stone River, one of the bloodiest battles
of the Civil War. His unit was also involved in the construction of Fortress Rosecrans, the largest
earthen fortress in the country. They were engaged in the Battle of Chickamauga. In May of 1864, they
joined the advance and subsequent capture of Atlanta. They participated in the battles of Franklin and
Nashville. This regiment was usually involved in the front and rarely was assigned garrison duty. The
unit mustered out June 9, 1865 in Nashville, TN.
Lucy Jane Lewis became the wife of Warren William Dodge on April 29, 1867, in Tipton, IA.
They resided in Jones County before coming to Center Point. They purchased a farm near Center Point
in 1915. While living in Center Point, Warren Dodge worked as a trim carpenter. Gary and Connie
Tisl’s home on the Central City Road have examples of his workmanship.
Warren had a keen sense of humor and it surfaced on his Civil War pension application. The
questions dealt with his marital status: 1. Are you married? If so, full name and maiden name of your
wife. 2. When, where, and by who were you married? 3. What record of marriage exists? Answer:
Nine children. Isn’t that enough? Their names were Elsworth, Myron, Erwin, Ada, Elmer, Ida, Sadie,
Lura, and Mable.
The couple’s fifth child, Elmer, was born on June 4, 1877. He married Alice Avery Meakins, a
former schoolteacher, on October 15, 1905. They lived near Center Point for four or five years. Elmer
Warren Dodge Lucy (Lewis) Dodge

150
worked as a drayman while in Center Point. The couple’s children were: Ruth, Esther, Helen, Millie,
Marguerite and Kenneth. Kenneth died in infancy.
Elmer’s father, Warren, passed away on November 22, 1916 and is buried with his wife in the
Center Point Cemetery. Three of their daughters are also buried there: Mable, Lura Newman Tripp,
Sadie Moses and her husband Howard.
Elmer and his wife Alice moved back to Iowa near Fairfax. In June of 1923, Elmer’s wife,
Alice, died leaving him with six daughters, ranging in age from four to sixteen, to raise. He never
remarried, but did a wonderful job of raising his girls.
Elmer later went to live with his daughter Millie (Aurner) on her and her husband’s farm, two
miles west of Center Point. Elmer was an exceptional gardener with a reputation for the best melons
around. Elmer lived an active life until his accidental death on November 12, 1952.
Grandchildren who have lived in the Center Point area include: Carlton Railsback, Joyce Aurner
Schultz, Freda Aurner Cook, Beth Aurner Seltrecht, and Janice McQueen Cavalier. Great grandchildren
of Elmer and Alice include: Rita Jacobson Felker, Karri Railsback, Todd Railsback, Andrea Seltrecht,
Carissa Seltrecht, Alex Seltrecht, Kelly Cavalier, Marjorie Cavalier Sperfslage, David Cavalier, and
Douglas Cavalier.
--Joyce Aurner Schultz
Edaburn
Hugh Edaburn, born 1835, married Julia Hoglan, born 1844, in 1860. Both of their parents
were pioneers and farmers in the Center Point area. Hugh’s parents were Benjamin and Ann Arneal
Edaburn. Benjamin died in 1850 and is buried in the Dunkard cemetery. Julia was the youngest child
of Phillip Hogland and Mary Neighbor. Phillip died in 1855 and is buried in the Oliphant Cemetary.
Julia was sister to Jesse Jackson Hoglan, featured in the Hoglan biography in this book. Hugh
Edaburn was brother to Nancy Edaburn, mentioned in the Matheny biography.
Peter is mentioned in Center Point history as one of four people to draw up the papers for
incorporating the town. The other three people were L. L. Wilson, William Nevin, and Abraham
Snyder. The election was held February 19, 1875 and the voters decided to incorporate the town.
After Peter’s wife died in 1898, he went to live with his daughter Minerva (Aunt Min) Ashlock
in Center Point until his death in 1915. Peter and Esther are buried in Center Point.
Hugh and Julia farmed west of Center Point in vicinity of 56
th
St. Trail and Cedar Ridge Road. Their
children were Robert, Alvin, Mary, John, Annie, William, Edward Hugh, and Charles. The youngest,
Charlie, was born in 1883 and married Katy Lindsay in
1910. Katy is in the Lindsay biography. They farmed
for a while and had three children: Raymond (1911), Lena
(1912) and Dorothy (1918). Charlie worked for the Rock
Island Railroad as section foreman. After Charlie’s
retirement in 1947, he and Katy were given passes to
ride the trains across the US. They took advantage of
the passes, vacationing several times in the west. Katy
and Charlie retired in a little house at 616 Central Avenue.
They died in 1968 and 1987 and are buried in the Center
Point Cemetery.
Raymond Edaburn married Myrla Deal in 1932.
The couple had five children: Ruby, Raymond Everett,
Ruth, Robert and Rita. Raymond and Myrla were
Front row l-r: Charlie and Katie. Back row l-r: Lena,
Raymond, Dorothy during the 1930s.

151
farmers in the Center Point area, retiring in the 1970s, to town. Daughter, Ruth, married Raymond
Attwood in 1954 and they farm just west of town at 4578 Urbana Road. Their children are Teresa
(Scheeler), Mike, Renee (Zahn), and Karla (Fowler). Teresa still lives in Center Point.
--Teresa Scheeler
Folkins
Peter Parlee Folkins, born 1826, and his
wife, Esther Hanna, born 1829, arrived in Center
Point in 1855. They had lived in Ontario Canada,
being married there in 1851. Two children, Richard
and George, were born before they arrived in Center
Point. They had seven more children, six born in
Center Point. Peter was a carpenter, but later bought
40 acres south of Center Point, built a home and
farmed until he retired.The oldest son of Peter and
Esther is Richard. He married Blanche Kubias and
lived most of his life in Center Point as a carpenter,
wagon maker and ran a harness shop. Later in life,
they moved to California, where he fell to his death
from the roof of a house he was building.
The second son, George, moved to the state
of Washington. Peter and Esther’s daughter, Minerva, married George Ashlock. George died in a
buggy accident when quite young, leaving her with eight children to raise alone. She lived to the age of
103.
Ever since Peter and Esther Folkins came to Center Point in 1855, there has been a direct line of
their descendants living in the Center Point area. The direct line stems from Peter and Esther’s youngest
son, Charles B. Folkins, who married Sara Shepard. The couple farmed and raised their three children:
Louis, Genevieve, and Harold. Genevieve married Glenn Sanborn and their children were Bernice and
Bernita (twins), Bonnie and Mardena. Bernita married Dell Ferguson and lives in Urbana. Their
daughter and grandson that live in Center Point today are Susan (Brian) Kramer and Steve (Tobi)
Kramer. Bernice married Claire Bowers, and their children in Center Point today are Jerry (Dianne)
Bowers, Mike Bowers. One other descendant living in Center Point is John Kaut, great grandson of
Nina Folkins.
Gable
Abraham and Catherine Heverly Gable brought their family to the Center Point area in 1884
from Ohio. Catherine’s family originally came from Germany but a number of her siblings eventually
settled in Iowa. Before moving, Abraham served in the Ohio regiment throughout the Civil War. He
went through the siege of Vicksburg and other battles without receiving a wound. When they came to
Iowa, they bought land adjoining the town of Center Point for $40 an acre. They farmed for many years
before retiring and moving into town.
Abraham saw himself as a good Christian. He thought a preacher should be able to deliver a
good sermon in 20 minutes. During a service, he would open his watch and if it was 12 o’clock, he
would snap it shut with a clap that could be heard throughout the church. This always embarrassed his
daughter, Ida Loretta, who was sitting with the choir. Of the Gable’s four children, Ida Loretta was the
Back row l-r: Cynthia, Matilda, Richard, John, George,
Minerva Front row l-r: Charles, Peter Parlee, Esther Anna,
Nina

152
only one to stay in
Center Point. In
1890, she and her
husband, Frank
Grubbs, built their
house at 902
Franklin Street.
They lived in the
house until their
deaths. Their
daughter, Ida
Elizabeth Grubbs,
still lives in the
house, today.
Abraham and Catherine Gable were among Center
Point’s oldest residents at the time of their deaths in the
1930’s. They were married for almost 65 years and both
lived to be 92 years old. At the time of his 90
th
birthday,
Abraham was still making his daily trip to the post office
on his bicycle. A newspaper article published in 1930
proclaimed him to be “the oldest bicycle rider in the United
States.”
--Katherine Rand, Jetta Faye Grubbs McGarry
Patricia Grubbs Rand, Margaret Rand Weaver,
Gilchrist
Martin Gilchrist came to the Center Point area from Fairdale,
Illinois about 1875. Sarah Leonard came to Center Point by covered
wagon with her family in l855. Martin and Sarah married and together
the couple had a son named Charles. They farmed north of town
Charles married Eunice Hudson Gilchrist and together they raised
their family on farms that were located north of Center Point. When
Charles and Eunice were married, they drove a team of horses to Center
Point, rode the railroad to Cedar Rapids, and were married in the
Methodist Church in Marion. Their children included: Mary Holman,
Helen Bare, Gretchen Beebe, John Gilchrist, and two other children who
did not reach adulthood.
Eunice Hudson Gilchrist was the daughter of George Henry and
Mary Louisa Johnson Hudson. Her parents also farmed north of Center
Point. Her father’s parents came to the area from New York to cook for workers building the railroad.
George joined his parents in Center Point after the Civil War. George and Mary Louisa drove a team of
horses and wagon to Vinton to be married.
Charles and Eunice Gilchrist retired to Center Point in 1961. They bought a home located on
the southwest corner of Summit Street and the Urbana Road. Eunice enjoyed being in town and joined
several clubs. “Charlie” was often found on a bench on Main Street, or walking over to the railroad
tracks to count the cars on the train.
--Mary Holman
l-r: Ida Loretta, Abraham, Elmore, Catherine,
Harley, Cora c. 1885.
Abraham Gable with bicycle at age 90,
c. 1930
Eunice and Charles Gilchrist

153
Grubbs
Jesse and Louisa Grubbs
and their son, Stephen, came from
Ohio in 1852 and purchased the
land that had been settled by
Bartimeas McGonigle. They built
the first hotel, the Washington
House, on the northeast corner of
Main and Washington streets. The
hotel served as a stagecoach stop.
Stephen married Mary Bartleson,
James Bartleson’s sister, and had
a son named Frank. With the
arrival of the train in 1875, the
hotel business waned. Frank
married Ida Loretta (Gable) and
together the couple operated a
grocery store.
F. M. Grubbs General Store operated from 1890 to 1908. It was located on the southeast corner
of Main and Washington streets. Two of their children, Lloyd and Vera, were born while the family
lived above the store. In the late 1890’s, they built and moved into the house on the NE corner of
Franklin and Washington Streets where their son, Marion, was born.
Frank then operated Grubbs & Strait Groceries, the second building south of the alley between
Washington and State streets on the east side of the street. He operated the store from early 1900 to
1918.
Frank’s son, Lloyd, returned from WWI and married Ruth Fairbanks. He joined his father and
brother running Grubbs & Son Grocery. This grocery operated from 1918 until 1930s.
The Depression hit the family hard. The business was lost to creditors. As jobs were lost,
households were consolidated. Marion and his wife Ida E. (Miller) and their infant daughter, Jetta,
moved in with Frank and Ida Loretta. In 1932, Vera and her husband (Jim Hassel) and their two
children, Bonnie and Bob, joined the household.
Marion established a sales route for Watkins Products in which he sold everything from fly
spray to vanilla to area farm families. On a good day, he earned between $3 and $4. He also worked on
the W.P.A., at the Brookman Canning Factory, and cut firewood. Ida E. earned money by sewing for
other ladies including formal gowns for Eastern Star and Pythian Sisters, cutting and setting hair for 35
cents, running the switchboard in the telephone office and working as a corn-cutter in the canning
factory. Jim worked at Holman’s lumberyard.
Frank was hired for $20 a month to blow the fire whistle every day at exactly noon. His job
responsibilities also included maintaining a special phone for fire emergency calls. After getting the
volunteer fire department off to a fire, he answered countless calls telling curious residents where the
fire was.
When the town decided to hire a crossing guard to protect the school children crossing Highway
150 at the corner of Washington Street, Frank took the job. In winter he kept the home fires burning, the
walks shoveled, and the pump thawed. Year round he tended a large flock of chickens.
1931 Back row l-r: Frank Grubbs, Ida L. Grubbs, Vera (Grubbs) Hassel, Jim
Hassell, Lloyd Grubbs, Front row l-r: Ida E. Grubbs, Jetta Faye Grubbs, Bonnie
Hassel, Pat Grubbs, Ruth (Fairbanks) Grubbs.

154
Two cows, a flock of chickens and a huge garden kept the family fed. They sold milk, butter,
and cottage cheese. In warm weather everyone worked at planting, cultivating, and harvesting things
from the huge garden. The women would can food from the garden during the summer. Potatoes were
dug, apples and pears were picked, and walnuts and hickory nuts were hulled and stored.
When World War II began, Marion just missed the age limit of thirty-six for the draft. He spent
the war years working for Collins Radio in Cedar Rapids. Ida E. returned to teaching, first at rural
West School on the Urbana Road and then at Center Point. She retired at 65 after a 28-year career.
Lloyd and his wife (Ruth Fairbanks) left for work in Chicago during the Depression. In 1946,
Lloyd, his wife and his daughter Pat returned to Center Point. They owned and operated a drugstore on
Main Street. Remembering the lessons from the past, Lloyd’s father warned him not to do a credit
business.
Pat and Jetta graduated from Center Point High School in 1948 and moved away.
Frank succumbed to a stroke in 1950 at 82. Lloyd died in 1964 at age 71, as did Ida L. who was 92.
Marion passed away at age 59 in 1965 and Vera in 1967.   Since neither Lloyd nor Marion had any
sons, the surname ended with them.
Ida Elizabeth Miller Grubbs is the last remaining family member with the Grubbs name. At
the age of ninety-six, she still resides in Center Point in the family home on the corner of Franklin and
Washington streets.
--Katherine Rand, Jetta Faye Grubbs McGarry
Patricia Grubbs Rand, Margaret Rand Weaver,
Hand
Levi Hand bought his first farm ground from
A.J. Adams in 1882. Additional parcels were later
purchased from Helbigs, Mollenhauers, Wards, and
the Flickenger Estate. Levi farmed with mules. He
also ran a sawmill. He cut the boards, which were
used on a house he built in 1907. When his barn
burned in 1917, he built a new one.
Clarence and Olive Hand joined Clarence’s
father, Levi, by moving to Center Point in spring of
1918 with their daughter, Hazel. Their son Philip
was born in September 1918.
Philip started school when he was four years
old to keep the school open; a minimum number of
students had to be enrolled or the school would be
forced to close. He rode his pony, Beauty, to Mounce
# 10 school, located on the corner of North Center
Point Road (old Highway 150) and Lafayette Road.
Philip skipped third grade and then failed eighth
grade county exams. Country school kids had to take
these exams, but town students weren’t required to
take the exams. Philip graduated from Center Point
High School in 1936.
Philip started farming after graduation with
six horses and mules on a gangplow. He remembers
First car, 1919 Maxwell l-r: Olive, Cantha, Hazel, Philip,
Philip and Hazel Hand, Virginia and Maxine Maxson on
Beauty.

155
that his father had a Fordson tractor and together
they purchased a John Deer tractor in 1936. It
was one of the first rubber tire tractors in the area.
Philip clearly remembers “courting” his
future wife, Berniece Shaffer. While attending a
basketball game on February 3, 1938, he paid
Jimmie Wood a nickel to take Berniece’s seat
when she got up. He wanted a chance to talk
with Berniece who was already sitting in the
crowd when he arrived at the game. Later he
blocked the road east of Walker, so he could talk
with her. The next weekend, he took her to a
basketball tournament in Walker. A few years
back, Jimmie returned his nickel in pennies.
Philip started farming with his father in 1940. That same year Berniece started teaching at
McNeil #8, located on McNeil Road outside of Center Point. The couple was married on May 3, 1941.
Philip and Berniece lived with Philip’s parents, Clarence and Olive, for four months while they built a
new house up the road. Philip farmed on shares with his father until he bought the farm in 1966.
Philip milked cows for thirty-three years until he sold his herd in 1969. He continued farming and
doing custom work until he retired at the age seventy-three.
--Philip Hand
Heefner
George Heefner was born near Marion in
1884. He was born into the large family of David
and Lydia Heefner with eight brothers and three
sisters. He married Edna Neighbor and together
they had three children: Harold who worked at
the Anamosa bank, Gerald who became a teacher,
and Leola (Palmer) who taught school in Center
Point until her retirement.
George operated several grocery stores
during his lifetime. His first store was located in
Troy Mills. He ran the store with his brother, Les,
and later with Billy Cook. George then moved to
Robins where he operated a grocery store and post
office for several years. George relocated his
business to Center Point where he sold groceries
during the 1930s and 1950s. The store was located on the east side of Main Street between Washington
and State streets, the second building south of the alley. His store was originally known as Heefner &
Newman Grocery. Later the business was renamed, Heefner and Potter, when Earl Potter became a
partner.
During this period, people could charge their groceries. When customers paid off their charges,
they were rewarded with a free candy bar.
George, Edna and the children were very active in the Christian Church. They loved to go
fishing and picnic with family, friends, Jack and Clara Ashlock and the minister.
Hand’s Farming with Mules
40th Wedding Anniversary c. 1955 l-r: George and Edna
Heefner, Diana Palmer.

156
After George retired from the grocery
business, Dufoe Hardware occupied the
building. George is buried in the Lafayette
cemetery.
George’s brother, Leslie W. Heefner,
was born on a farm near Marion, Iowa, on July
23, 1887. He attended rural schools. He
married Elta Smith, also of rural Marion, in
1909. They had three children: Wilbur died in
infancy; Glen worked for DeKalb; and Doris
(Whitmore) taught for 30 years, 14 in Center
Point.
Money was scarce; so Leslie rented farms around Center Point for fifteen years before renting
the elevator, lumberyards and stockyards at Lafayette, Iowa. He built a home in Lafayette, his children
attended the rural school and the family was active in the Christian Church.
After three years, the family moved to Cedar Rapids where Leslie worked at the Marion Lumber
Yards. Not happy with city life, he rented the Wormer farm northwest of Center Point. The family
attended the Christian Church. Leslie was an “elder” in the church for over thirty years. He served on
the church board and was active in other leadership roles. In 1925 Les rented the Rock Island Stockyards
and moved to Center Point where he resided the rest of his life. Later he rented the W.C.F.&N. Stockyards
and sent the hogs to Rath’s Waterloo packing plant. In 1940 the WCF&N station agent reported that
“L. W. Heefner and Son, Center Point hog buying firm shipped 422 cars of hogs, mostly to Waterloo
packers.”
Les loved fishing in the ponds along the Cedar River. The family spent several weeks during
the summer fishing in Minnesota. He was active in community affairs and enjoyed spending the winters
in Texas and Florida with friends. Les enjoyed playing pinochle and “500” and many other games with
family and friends. He faithfully attended the Heefner reunions for over fifty years. He loved his
garden and mowed lawns for the elderly women in Center Point. He made pies that were distributed to
those who were ill.
His wife, Elta, died in 1962. Les continued helping his grown children with their painting,
gardening and lawn mowing. Leslie died peacefully in his sleep in June 1964 leaving several brothers,
one sister, two children and six grandchildren.
--Doris Whitmore
Hendryx
Peter Parlee and Esther Hanna Folkins were pioneers of Center
Point, settling in 1855. Their daughter, Nina, married Caleb Hendryx.
The couple had three boys: Charles (born 1895), Lloyd (born 1897)
and Allen (born 1898). Nina died in 1901 and Caleb in 1906, orphaning
the three boys.
In 1915 Charles (Charley) married Elva Bailey. They celebrated
their 73
rd
anniversary before he died in 1988. Their children included:
Vernon, Fred, Robert, Duane, and Dorothy. For 30 years, Charley
worked as a WCF&N interurban depot agent in Center Point. He was
the last agent before the line closed.
Summer of 1942. Paul Willer (Partner) and Les Heefner.
The Three Hendryx Brothers c. 1910
l-r: Allen, Charles, Lloyd. Orphaned
at ages 8, 9, and 11.

157
Lloyd (Sharky) married Inez Pickering in 1920. He worked year round at the Linn County
Nursery until 1942, when he reenlisted in the Navy. He later farmed and died in 1965. Their children
include: Geraldine Healy, Donald, Mike, Gerald and Margaret Kaut.
Allen (Andy) married Marie Sarchett in 1919. He was married a second time, to Dessie McBride,
in 1934. The couple had two children, Mary Ellen and Nancy. Andy worked in auto sales in Cedar
Rapids before starting Hendryx Motors in Center Point in the late 1930s. He died in 1967.
--Geraldine Hendryx Healy
Heverly
In 1951, the Reverend Edward Heverly celebrated his 80
th
birthday
and his 50
th
year in the ministry. At that time, Edward lived alone in his
four-room home on north Main Street. He did his own cooking and
housekeeping and bragged that he had traveled to every state except
Delaware in the previous ten years. At the age of 79, he worked 10-hour
days at the Linn County Nursery during selling season and filed over 200
income tax returns for clients. He was also active in his ministry,
continuing to preach and help his fellow man when called upon.
Edward was born in 1871 and grew to manhood on a farm south
of Center Point. Edward was the son of Samuel and Ascindia Heverly
In 1889, Mr. Heverly attended Upper Iowa University in Fayette and
completed the work for a business degree. On the final examination day,
Edward became upset with the instructors method of testing. He decided
to return home without his degree. In 1946 when Edward received an
alumni publication, he wrote to the president explaining that he wasn’t
really an alumnus. Upper Iowa invited him to participate in the upcoming
commencements where he led the procession of graduates and received
his degree.
In 1892 Edward married Alice May Stewart. Edward and his
brother, John H., purchased Wilsons drugstore building in Center Point
and opened Heverly Bros Hardware in 1895. In 1900, Edward left the
business to pursue a career in the ministry and was appointed to his first charge in 1901. He served a
total of 19 charges with his ordination at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Center Point. In
1926, he was the minister of the church when the mortgage was burned at a ceremony marking the end
of the church’s indebtedness. During his career, he delivered over 4,000 sermons, 152 baptisms, 130
funerals and 52 weddings.
Edward’s wife died in 1943, one year after the couple had celebrated their 50
th
anniversary.
They had one child, Mrs. Tom Condon, and three grandchildren Beryl Eller, Mrs. Roger Leslie and
Mrs. L. L. Hilbert.
--Teresa Scheeler
Hoglan
Jesse Jackson Hoglan, who was born in 1825, married Mary Ann Van Sickle, who was born in
1827. The couple was married on April 6, 1847 in Ohio, probably Newcomerstown. They moved
south of Center Point with their first child, Elmira, around 1850. Ten additional children were born to
the couple after they’d settled in the area: Sarah Ann, Garret, Samuel Charles, Thedora, Pernina,
Alice (Stewart) Heverly and Artie
Stewart

158
Adeline, Arthur Jackson, Herman Kerr, Seldon, and Tilden Victor. Amazingly, all eleven children
helped celebrate Jackson and Mary’s 60
th
wedding anniversary.
One of the couple’s sons, Herman, was born in 1869, reportedly in a log cabin. He was a
schoolteacher and a farmer. In 1902, he married Inez May Van Note, who was born in 1884. They were
the parents of five children: Glenn Allan, (born 1904); Forest Arthur, (born 1907); Linden Dale, (born
1909); Herbert Kendall, (born 1915); and Mary Eleanor, (born 1919).
In 1927, Glenn married Paulina Fredricka Martin, who was born in 1905. Glenn was a farmer,
auctioneer, and owned a grocery store in Center Point during the 1940’s. Paulina taught school for
fourteen years. They had one son, Jack Martin, who was born in 1932.
Glenn’s son, Jack, married Eva Jane Wiegand in 1953. They had four children: Aileen Ann,
Cheryl Lynn, Carol Rae, and Jon Glenn. Aileen married Richard Kirk Stofer; they had one daughter,
Lisa Ann. Carol married Gary Arnold Gibbs. They had three sons: Alexander Martin, Matthew Fredrich
and Lucas Ray. Jack and Eva Jane, Aileen and Kirk, Lisa and family, and Jon all live in Independence.
Cheryl lives south of Center Point (on Glenn and Paulina’s farm). Carol and family live on the Gibbs’
family farm near West Union, Iowa.
Forest graduated from the University of Iowa and had a successful career as a chemist. He
married Ione Minny Lorenzen (b. 1911) in 1929. They adopted one son, Gene David. Gene had two
daughters with his first wife, Christi and Trisha Leah. Gene and his first wife divorced. He married
Eva Kruenninger; Gene and Eva live in Round Lake, Illinois.
Linden, a local farmer, married Elsie Kopecky (b. 1913) in 1931. They had two children,
Marylin and Leonard Garet. Linden died while serving with the Navy during WWII. Marylin married
Dean Knapp in 1951. They had four children: Roger, Cynthia, Theresa, and Larry. They all reside in
the Colorado Springs area. Leonard married Kyoko. They have no children and reside in Tucson,
Arizona.
Herb graduated from the University of Iowa and taught at the college level. He married Betty
Jane Nicklin (b. 1918) in 1944. They have five children: Donald Linden, Alice Ann, Lee Nicklin,
Vaughn Van Note, and Candyce Sue. Alice’s only child, Mark Bingham, was killed in the crash of
Flight 93 on September 11, 2001. Vaughn and his wife, Kathy, had two daughters and three sons. Herb
and his family live in California.
Mary graduated from the University of Iowa. She taught Home Economics in Center Point for
many years. She married Donald Ray Cook (b. 1919) in 1942. Don was a farmer. They had two
children, Dwight William and Kathleen Rae. Dwight was killed in the Viet Nam War. Kathy had two
children, Joshua Charles Meggitt and Sarah Lezlee Hanson. Kathy lives in Center Point.
Jesse Jackson and Mary Hoglan are buried in the Oliphant Cemetery. Herman and Inez, Glenn
and Paulina, Forest and Ione, Linden and Elsie, Don, Mary, and Dwight are buried in the Center Point
Cemetery.
--Kathleen Rae Cook
Holman
Howard Holman met Mary Gilchrist when she was teaching school in Waterloo. They were
married on her parents’ farm, north of Center Point, on June 19, 1928, and settled in Clarksville, Iowa,
where Howard managed the lumberyard. Their son, Howard Richard (Dick), was born in 1929, and
Sara Ann (Sally) in 1930.
In 1931, they moved to Center Point, where Howard was manager and later owner of the Center
Point Lumber Company. At first they lived in the Hoglan house in the northeast part of Center Point.
Later that year, they moved to the house at 821 Franklin and that remained the Holman home until the

159
fall of 2003. Mary’s father worried
about the children on the highway. Doc
Bromwell was told he should not buy
the veterinary barn because he would
have “those Holman brats” down there
all the time. Apparently the concern
was not entirely misplaced; the children
were the cause of a fire scare in one
corner of the barn.
Howard and Mary were very
active in local affairs. He was always
ready to take part in stunt shows and
was a big fan of high school sports.
Howard served on the City Council, the
School Board, and as a volunteer fireman. He was Mayor of the city and also held various offices in
The Masons and Eastern Star.
After retiring in January, 1970, Howard was involved in volunteer work at the historical museum
and golden age housing. He also kept busy as cemetery groundskeeper, tending his dogs and ponies,
and gardening. He harvested zucchinis, strawberries, and flowers in his two huge gardens. He enjoyed
making rugs and served as the crossing guard at the intersection in front of his home.
Mary also held various offices in Eastern Star, was an active worker in the Methodist Church,
and served for twenty-one years as secretary for the School Board. She was a charter member of the
Centennial Club, Garden Club, and worked on the Bicentennial committee in 1976. In 1933, she
helped start the Modern Book Club, which is still very active. She worked diligently to get a library
started in Center Point. Mary has also written eight books after turning ninety; two of her books can be
found at the Public Library.
Howard and Mary both enjoyed photography. Mary had a dark room and printed many of their
photos. Mary became the biographer for the Hudson, Gilchrist, and Holman families. Together, they
traveled to all fifty states excluding Alaska and Hawaii, attending reunions and meeting new relatives.
After serving in the Navy, Howard and Mary’s son, Dick, worked in the Lumber yard with
Howard until it closed. He then finished college work and moved to Kentucky where he married. Sally
became a teacher in Clinton, Iowa. She’s retired after teaching for forty years.
Howard died in 1986. Mary continued to live in their home in Center Point until December
2002 when she went to stay in Clinton with Sally and her husband. She celebrated her 101st birthday
in 2003 at her old “morning gathering place” in Center Point. Mary turned 102 in April, 2004. She
resides at a care center in Clinton, Iowa.
--Mary Holman
Joyce
Steven Joyce served in the Forty-sixth Infantry, which was a 100-day regiment. The regiment
went into service at Davenport on June 10, 1864. The regiment was ordered to Camp Lookout, near
Colliersville, Tenn. The regiment only engaged the enemy one time, in August. A squad of Confederate
soldiers captured some members of the regiment. A detachment was sent to rescue the men. In the
skirmish that followed, four men from the regiment were wounded. The Forty-sixth Infantry was
mustered out at Davenport on September 23, 1864
Sally (Holman) Hill, Howard, Mary, Dick

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When Steven returned from the Civil War, he settled in
Center Point. He married Miss Fee and together they had six
children: George, Nell, Bertha, Martha, Jesse, and Maud.
Steven died while Jesse and Maud were in high school.
Jesse left school to care for his mother. After several odd jobs,
he started working at the L.J. Dennis Elevator. He tried farming
for two years, but returned to his job at the elevator. When
Jesse was twenty-seven, he married Caroline Schmickle. On
October 18, 1914, a daughter, Mardean, was born. Shortly
afterward, Jesse’s mother died.
Jesse, known as “Joker”, is fondly remembered for his
involvement in theater and music. He and four other friends,
including Frank Floyd, produced and acted in plays from 1900-
1920s. The troupe usually
performed twice a year in
the old movie theater.
The troupe also
performed in surrounding
towns. The money the
troupe made from
admissions was usually donated to some local cause.
His daughter describes the plays as simple (the usual props
were a table and chair) and “corny.” Jesse usually played the villain
in the plays. His daughter remembers that her mother took her to
a performance where her father was shot. She screamed and cried;
her mother never took her to another play. Jesse’s sister, Maud,
sometimes appeared in the plays. She was noted for her fine
singing voice and her red hair.
Jesse also joined a newly organized brass band. He
purchased a drum and taught himself to play. When the band
formed, there were 12-15 members. At its peak, 20-25 musicians
had joined. The family has a picture, dated 1911, of the brass
band decked out in their new uniforms. The band would perform
concerts for the townspeople on Wednesday night at the Main
Street bandstand. Later, the bandstand was replaced with a hayrack
from which the band performed. The band traveled to surrounding towns, including Central City, to
perform. Jesse took his role in the band seriously and always attended the weekly band rehearsals.
Jesse, Jr., was born in 1923 to Jesse and Caroline. In 1926, they moved to an acreage located
next to the present Corner Store. Jesse took an interest in raising ducks, chickens and geese. He
regularly participated in the Center Point poultry shows. The Poultry Shows were held in a building
next to the old theater. Participants would bring their “special” chickens, ducks, geese and rabbits to be
judged. Ribbons were awarded to the winners.
Jesse’s daughter, Mardean, remembers one year when her father sent a “rouen” duck to a
competition held in Madison Square Garden. The duck was transported to New York by train. The
duck was awarded second place and returned by crate to her father.
Jesse Joyce c. 1915 performed in theater
and music. Notice his ice skates.
Maud Joyce and Caroline (Schmickle) Joyce
in 1913.

161
Mardean also remembers her father as an excellent dancer. Her parents would attend the club
dances and fox trot and waltz in to the early hours of the next day. Mardean remembers falling asleep
on two chairs that were pushed together whenever she accompanied her parents to the dance.
Mardean inherited her father’s love of music. She studied piano at an early age. She began
playing for funerals and at lodge meetings, sometimes accompanied by a friend who played saxophone.
When a high school band was formed in 1930, Mardean began playing the trumpet. She received a
xylophone for graduation and played regularly with Marae Lockhart. She remembers an engagement
in Jesup where they earned $10 for their performance.
Mardean graduated from Coe College with a Bachelor of Music degree. She became a teacher,
but returned home in the summers. She remembers directing a band comprised of high school students
one summer. She also began playing the marimba. When her father died in 1940, Mardean, her
mother, and her brother left Center Point.
Her brother, Jesse Jr., was killed in World War II. A stained glass window at the First Christian
Church commemorates her brother. Her mother, Caroline, died in 1968.
Mardean moved to Cedar Rapids with her husband in 1946. In 1980, the couple became active
members of the First Christian Church in Center Point. Mardean doesn’t mind the drive since she is
rewarded with seeing old friends and being surrounded by memories from her childhood.
--Mardean Holveck
Kennedy
Norman and Edith (Taylor) Kennedy moved to the Center Point rural area to raise shorthorn
cattle. In 1934, the couple and their son, Keith, moved to 1417 Franklin Street. The family owned and
operated a wooden gas station that was built next to their home in 1935. This station was replaced by
a cement block building after World War II. The old wooden
station was moved to the north end of Main Street and was used
as a car garage by Norman’s two bachelor brothers, Howard
and Homer Kennedy. The old garage was then purchased in the
mid-1990s by a man from Palo. The building still stands today.
Norman was active at the Phillips 66 station until his death in
1951.
His son, Keith, married Mina and together they had two
daughters, Vicki and Paula. Keith owned and operated the
Phillips 66 station from 1948 until 1961. He was active in the
community, working on the School Board for many years. When
the Phillips 66 station was severely damaged by a tornado in
1961, it was rebuilt and then leased for a short time as a gas
station.
The Phillips 66 building was then converted into offices
for Kennedy Cady Insurance Agency. Keith worked as an
insurance and real estate agent from that location. Ted Rogers
bought into the business in 1981. After Keith’s retirement, he
continued to be active as a member of the Linn County Board of
Review. Keith also served as a representative of the Iowa State
Legislature in the 1960s.
Keith was quite outspoken. He wrote numerous guest articles that were published in the Gazette
on topics ranging from junk mail, the state’s use of lottery profits, and the actions taken by the State
Back row l-r: Vicki (Kennedy) Harger,
Paula (Kennedy) Russler. Front row:
Keith and Mina Kennedy.

162
Legislature. Keith Kennedy died on February 13, 1995. During his life, Keith was very active in the
Masonic Lodge. Erma Busenbark remembers that Keith would conduct “Masonic” memorial services
for lodge members whose families requested the service. A taped version of one of Keith’s memorials
was played at his funeral.
--Vicki Harger
Kirk
Thomas Kirk was born on November 23, 1832 in North Hamptonshire, England near Stony
Stratford. His parents, Samuel and Mary Ann, had five sons: John, George, Thomas, Samuel, and
William. The family immigrated to the United States in 1851. They traveled through New York,
Chicago, Illinois, and Rockford, Illinois.
Thomas purchased a farm near Center Point (now Alice), Iowa. His first wife was Mary
Anderson who was born in 1830. Mary died in childbirth on January 5, 1873. The infant was buried in
her mother’s arms at the Lafayette Cemetery near Alburnett, Iowa. Thomas then married Alice Cushman
who was born on November 2, 1855. They were married on September 25, 1873. Thomas and Alice
had five sons and two daughters.
Thomas Kirk farmed and raised his family north of Alice Iowa. A corner of the Kirk farm is the
location of the Alice United Methodist Church, the Alice Cemetery, and the former Alice #5 Country
School. Many of the Kirk descendants live nearby. The Kirk families attended and supported the Alice
United Methodist Church.
One of Thomas’s younger sons, George, lived at Alice his entire life. George was married to
Mary Wheeler. George and Mary had two children: Lucille Marie Kirk Stewart and George W. Kirk.
Lucille and George lived in Alice and Center Point their entire lives.
Thomas died November 14, 1904. He and his second wife, Alice, who died in 1937, are buried
in the Alice Cemetery.
--Shirley Elgin
Kubias
Joseph Kubias was born in 1815
in Bohemia. He with his wife, Maria, and
four children Albert, Mary, Josef and
Stanislaus sailed for America in 1853. It
took them three months and nineteen days
to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Two more
children were born in 1855 and 1860 while
the family lived in Boston. They also lived
in Chicago, Shueyville, and Cedar Rapids.
Maria died in 1870. Shortly after that, Jo-
seph moved his family to Center Point. He
passed away in 1879 and is buried in the
Center Point cemetery.
Joseph and Maria’s first son,
Albert, was born in 1846 and at the age of
16, hired out to learn the harness making
Albert Kubias harness shop taken in 1895. G.A.R. Hall (Union Hall)
seen at left. l-r: Albert Kubias and John Burns.

163
trade in Cedar Rapids. After serving in the Civil War, he moved to Center Point in 1870 and opened up
a harness shop of his own. This shop was located at 321 State Street. Today in 2004, the building is
still standing. Albert married Mary Wanous in 1867 and they had two children, Joseph C. and Frank.
She died in 1874 at the age of 26 years. Albert then married Phebe Smith and two sons, Frederick A.
and John Smith, were the results of this union.
Albert’s harnesses were in such demand that his shipments reached Kansas, Dakota, Washington
territory and California. He was known as the best harness maker around, using nothing but the finest
oak tanned leather. He hand-made all of the harnesses, far superior in quality than machine made. He
also carried saddles, whips, dusters, fur robes and everything else usually handled in a first-class horse
and mule emporium. Albert died in 1909 and his sons, Frederick A. and John, took over the harness
business. They were partners until 1913 when John sold his interest and moved to California. Phebe
died in 1947, in her son John’s home in California..
Frederick Albert Kubias continued to run the harness shop. In 1900 he married Maude Newman
and they had one child, Marae Maude. They divorced three years later. In 1905 Frederick married Dora
Johnson to which a daughter, Dorothy was born. They divorced. Frederick then married Lela Murray
which ended in divorce and his fourth marriage was to Agnes Gately who passed away in 1939. In
1941 Frederick married Edna Campbell.
Frederick, like his father and grandfather, was a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge in
Center Point for many years, serving in most of the stations. Fred operated the harness shop until his
death in 1955.
--Teresa Scheeler
Lanning
John Kemule Lanning (known as J.K.) was born in Ohio in 1852 and died in 1939. His wife,
Angelia Hoglan was born in 1853 and died 1927. She resided in Ohio and Indiana before moving to
Iowa. It is believed the oldest of J.K.’s and Angelia’s six children had been born in the log cabin that
still stands on the home place west of Green’s Grove Community Church. J. K.’s grandson, Harold
Lanning, now lives on this site.
Angelia’s brother, Jackson Hoglan,
also lived in the Green’s Grove area. He
was born in 1825 and died in 1913 and
raised a large family. One of his children,
Herman Hoglan, was the father of long
time Center Point teacher and community
leader, Mary Cook. The neighborhood had
a song about Jackson’s nine children.
“Elmira and Ann, Garret and Sam,
Dory, Pernine and Addaline,
Herman and Arthur, Sel and Til,
A pretty good family lived up on
the hill.”
John and Angelia had twin
children, Earl Leota Lanning and his twin
The J.K. Lanning Family, c. 1905.
Front row l-r: John K. Lanning, Ernest, Angelia Lanning. Back row:
Ethel L. Wilson, William, Homer L., Earl L., Elsie L. Squires.

164
sister, Elsie Leona, who were born on Christmas Day, 1888. Earl died while wintering in Tampa the
day after Christmas, 1959.
Earl married Elva and together they raised six children on a sandy 80-acre farm in Greens
Grove, a rural neighborhood between Center Point and Toddville. Elva Boyd Lanning was born in
1886 and died in 1966. Her father, Peter Boyd, was born in Illinois in 1856 and died in 1940. He
farmed and was a stallion man in the Midway area. Later he became an
elder in the Dunkard Church west of Robins. Elva’s mother, Anna Hoover
Boyd, was born in 1851 in southeastern Iowa and died in 1941. Grace
Boyd of Marion, Peter’s granddaughter, remembers her grandfather’s
recipe for Fish Worm Oil.
“Dig quantity of fish worms, wash well.
Stuff in narrow necked glass bottle.
Hang on side of the barn where sun will “work.”
Let the crud bubble out of the top of the bottle for several days
until only a clear, pure liquid is left .
Rub on your joints to ease rheumatism.”
Earl and Eva’s oldest daughter, Freida, was born in 1912 and died
in 2003. She married Don Tunks and worked as Dr. Kenneth Andersen’s
first receptionist. Their second daughter, Hazel was born in 1914. She
graduated from St Luke’s Nursing School. Her husband, Fred Keil, was
originally from New York City. He needed a translator when he started
courting Hazel. He was a railroad conductor and later Baptist minister.
Their third daughter, Doris, was born in 1915. She married Bill Smith, who was born in 1916. The
couple moved to California, where Doris became a “Rosie the Riveter” on P38s during WWII. Their
fourth daughter, Avis, was born in 1919. She worked as a beautician at Anna Maye Lampman’s shop on
Main Street. Later she married Ken Moon, who was a lawyer in Cedar Rapids.
Earl and Elva’s fifth child was a son, Arnold John, who was born in 1921. He married Maxine
Benesh and together the couple started farming until Arnold was drafted for WWII. Later he worked
for Kenwood Transfer in Cedar Rapids. The couple’s
youngest daughter was Evelyn, who was born in 1926.
She married Bert Roseberry and together they have lived
on the same farm northeast of Center Point since 1945.
Elva was a poster child for farm women of past
generations who could make something from nothing.
She canned sweet corn in tin cans and sold it to help with
the family finances. A professional seamstress before
her marriage in 1912, she ripped up and made over
clothing until only scraps were left. Even the scraps were
put to use. A charter member of the Greens Grove Sewing
Circle, she made those scraps into quilts.
Her youngest child, Evelyn Roseberry, remembers
when they saw one of their young chickens get hit on the road. Elva cleaned and cooked the chicken
and they had it for a special lunch on doll dishes. Elva used her sewing skills to create various costumes.
She made a man’s suit for a pet rooster to wear in Center Point’s Fourth of July parade. She also made
a monkey suit for son, Arnold John, to wear in the Greens Grove No. 9 school program where he
scampered up the bell rope.
Peter Boyd with his stallion, Pirate
Earl and Elva Boyd Lanning,
Wedding Photo, 1912.

165
No. 9 stood at the top of Newman Hill. Earl and Elva’s farm was at the bottom. Newman Hill
was a real hill in those days. Model T Fords had to go up the hill in reverse because it was too steep for
their gravity flow fuel systems. Dealers from town would bring their next generation of cars down to
demonstrate; if the cars could make it up the hil, it was a “sure sale.”
Of course, there was no gravel on any of the roads. When Evelyn was four years old, she got
stuck in the heavy clay mud while taking a book to a sibling at school. Harry and Clara Varner saw her
as they drove to town by horse and buggy. They waved, she waved, and they didn’t realize she was
stuck. Elva didn’t worry about her baby because Evelyn often stayed to visit at school. Evelyn could
have gotten herself “unstuck” if she had put down the schoolbook; but books were precious and you
didn’t set them down in the mud. When Harry and Clara came driving home from Center Point much,
much later in the day, Evelyn was still there. They pulled her out, scraped her off, and took her home to
Elva.
Earl’s twin, Elsie, married Milton Squires. His brother, Homer, owned the Center Point Movie
Theater and a filling station on the northeast corner of Main and State streets. Earl later owned the
station and a car dealership on the site. The property is now back in the family, owned by Earl’s
grandson-in-law, Jeff Diveley.
--Sharon Hannen
Lewis
William J. Lewis came to Linn County in 1839 and settled in the area today known as the Lewis
Bottoms, 4 miles southwest of Center Point and 5 miles north of Palo by the Cedar River. Several
members of the family settled in this area and family
holdings grew to include 2,000 acres. William was
the father of Charles W.
Charles W. Lewis, (born 1862, died 1942) and his
wife, Amy Mather, farmed south of Center Point on
Cummingsford Road. They also owned a farm south
of the four corners at the Pleasant Creek Park entrance
and the timber on the south side. Charles and Amy
had four children: Carl Reuben, Denessa Ruth, Nellie
Olive, and Samuel Benton. The family was active
in the Evangelical Church in Center Point. Ruth
married Willie Andrews and they lived on the Lewis
farm by the park. Nellie married Harley Notbohm;
the couple lived in Center Point. Ruben married Ruby
Notbohm and they lived on the farm on
Cummingsford Road.
Samuel Benton, Sr., was born in 1899. He
married J. Leone Rawson who was born in 1900. The
couple lived with Sam’s parents on the farm for a
few months while their stucco house was being built
at 108 Main Street. They had four children: Samuel,
Jr., Laurel Lea, Lyle and Collette. Lyle died as a child. Samuel, Jr., recalls his grandmother, Amy,
1944 truck hauling a farmer’s family.
Lewis Family
Back row l-r: Collette and Laurel Lea. Front row : Leone,
Samuel Jr., Samuel.

166
talking about the Indians that would camp along the river just east of the
farm, setting up their wigwams and using canoes for transportation. She
remembered an Indian woman who once came to the farmhouse to barter
for flour.
Nellie’s husband, Harley Notbohm, ran a dray service in Center Point
and hauled freight from the Rock Island and the Interurban depots. Samuel,
Sr., worked for Harley for a while, before starting a trucking business in
1935. He hauled hogs to market from the hog buying station between the
Rock Island and Interurban tracks at the north end of town on the Central
City Road. He also hauled supplies from the railroad to the town’s businesses.
He hauled grain for LJ Dennis Elevator. The elevator had a cable coal
bucket that unloaded coal cars from the railroad and Sammy would deliver
the coal to customers.
In 1936, Samuel, Sr., and Leone moved to 621 Valley Street and took
over the ice business. He transported ice from Hubbard Ice and Coal in Cedar Rapids. He would haul
livestock to Wilson & Co. and haul ice back, making deliveries on the way home. The ice was kept in
the icehouse and later a refrigerated building was added to reduce shrinkage. Sam also used his truck
to pull a horse drawn grader on the streets of Center Point. The work was part of a three-year project to
improve streets and create ditches.
Samuel, Jr., started driving the 1938 truck for his father and the business name was changed to
Sam Lewis & Son. Samuel, Jr., remembers pulling the horse drawn maintainer to clear snow from city
streets. He said it was a cold job. Later, they later found an old snow plow frame with a blade and
mounted it on an old truck. They cut a hole in the windshield so the blade could be lowered and raised.
The father and son team hauled sand from pits by the river to building sites. People who burned
wood and coal for heat would engage their services to pick up their ash piles in the spring. Every March
1st,

they helped farmers who rented, move to their new farms. During sweet corn season, they would
haul corn to the Canning Factory. Many times wagons and trucks would be lined up both sides of the
street to make their deliveries.
At the current location of the school’s all-purpose room and weight room, Sammy graded the
lot for an ice rink. Many kids enjoyed skating there and also on a duck pond across the river at McArthur’s
farm. Samuel, Jr., remembers taking truckloads of kids to the ice rink after school, cleaning the rink off
with the truck plow and then setting up cans of kerosene for lights.
On Saturdays, the father and son team had a trash route. In 1948 they took on a school bus route
bringing the 40+ kids from the Alice community to school. Samuel, Sr., also installed and repaired
Deco Lights in farmers’ barns and outbuildings.
Samuel, Sr., and Leone were active members in the Evangelical United Brethren church. Leone
was involved in the Ladies Aid Society and provided childcare services. Leone passed away in 1982
and Samuel, Sr., in 1983.
Samuel, Jr., left for the service in 1949 and served in Guam and transferred to Army reserves
until 1954. He married Delores Schoettmer in 1951 and they built a home at 309 Summit St. Sam, Jr.,
worked at National Oats for 33 years, retiring in 1989. He makes wood models as a hobby. His sister,
Laurel Lea, worked in various banks, retiring from the bank in Coggon and still lives in the house
where she grew up on Valley Street. Another sister, Collette, married Leo Frederick, taught music and
lives in Lisbon.
--Sam Lewis, Jr.

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Lindsey
During the 1850s, Simeon Lisk, his wife Mary Jane Miller,
and their eight children lived in the vicinity between Center
Point and Marysville (Urbana). After their last child was
born in 1860, Simeon died. Mary then married Oscar
Lindsey in 1867 and they had three children: John, Frank
and Harvey. No one knows what became of John and
Frank as they left home at an early age after an argument
with their father. When Mary died in 1870, Simeon and
Mary’s second child, Jane A., who was born in 1848,
married her step-father, Oscar Lindsey, that same year. The
couple had ten children.
In 1885, Oscar and Jane Lindsey moved to a log
cabin, 1 1/2 miles northwest of Center Point, to raise their ten children. The cabin, located at 4621
Urbana Road, is believed to have been built in the 1840s and was used as Center Point’s first school
before the schoolhouse was built in town. The couple built a lean-to onto the backside of the cabin for
a bedroom for the five girls. A lean-to was also added on the south side for the kitchen. The five boys
slept in the loft. Their life was not easy, living off of three and one half acres. Behind the cabin was a
shanty that was used as a summer kitchen and a cave that was used to store vegetables.
Sons, Harvey and Oscar W.
were bachelors, living all their life
with their parents. Oscar and Jane
died within eleven months of each
other in 1916 and 1917; their
funerals were held under the
basswood tree west of the cabin.
Brothers, Harvey and Oscar
W. Lindsey, lived in that log cabin
raising raspberries, strawberries,
blackberries, beets, carrots, and
many other crops which they traded
in town. Oscar was also a
beekeeper, selling the honey for
cash. Oscar would hire himself out,
using his scythe to cut for other
people and chopping wood. Harvey
died in 1948 and Oscar moved from
the cabin in 1949 to live with his
nephew, Raymond Edaburn. Oscar
moved into his bee house, which
Raymond had moved from the cabin
to behind his farmhouse. One day,
Oscar W. came into the house
laughing that he was “his own grandfather.” He was chuckling about how his half-sister Jane had
married his father, Oscar.
Oscar and Jane Lindsey c. 1900.
CR Gazette Picture from 1946. Probably the oldest inhabited dwelling in
Linn County. Local tradition is that the cabin was first erected by Will Tillsbury
about a mile west of its present site nearly 100 years ago and was used as a
school. Harvey Lindsey, shown above with his dog, Pete, says his parents
moved there 61 years ago and raised their 10 children in the house. He and
his brother, Oscar, both bachelors, still live in the sturdy elm-log building.

168
Oscar and Jane’s youngest daughter, Katie, born in 1892, married Charlie Edaburn in 1910.
The couple lived for a short time with Katie’s parents and their first child, Raymond, was born in 1911
in the cabin. Charlie and Katie had two other children Lena (Serbousek) and Dorothy (Lovell). The
couple lived in Center Point area their entire life. Charlie worked for the Rock Island railroad.
Raymond Edaburn married Myrla Deal in 1932 and they farmed in the Center Point vicinity
all their lives, producing five children, of which Ruth (Attwood) still lives in Center Point. Ruth
married Raymond Attwood in 1954 and they have 4 children, Teresa, Mike, Renee and Karla. Teresa
also lives in Center Point, married to Dan Scheeler.
Charlie and Katie’s daughter,
Dorothy, married James Lovell. The couple purchased the
cabin originally owned by Oscar and Jane around 1955. They lived in it for one year with their four
children and tore it down in 1956, ending over 110 years of habitation in the log cabin.
--Teresa Scheeler
Lyman
In 1858, Ted Lyman, who was born in 1827, came
to the Center Point area, settling 5 miles east of Center
Point. His farm was located on the northeast corner of
Troy Mills Road and Central City Road. Ted married
Margaret; one of their children was named Chauncey.
Chauncey Lyman was born in 1853. He married
Anna Clark and together the couple had four children:
Pearl, Charity Ellen, David “Bert” and Howard. Chauncey
was Justice of Peace for Center Point and Alice. He acted
as a judge for the communities, overseeing small
infractions and assessing fines. He died in 1914, the same
year as his father, Ted. After the death of her husband,
Anna moved into town. The family built a new house
with stone accents 602 Main Street. Chauncey and Anna’s
daughter, Charity Ellen, married Dr. Charles Yost. Howard
farmed near Lafayette and Bert farmed two miles further east of the home place.
Their son, Pearl, who was born in 1889, married Ruth Sanborn. The couple had one child,
Francis Woodrow. Pearl farmed
the 160-acre homestead of his
grandfather for the rest of his life.
He died in 1972.
Francis Woodrow married
Glatha and together they had one
child, Ronnie. Francis’ second
wife was Emma Vaupel and a
second child was born, Russell
Lyman. Ronnie and Shirley
Lyman live in Hiawatha and
Russell lives in Cedar Rapids.
--Ronnie Lyman
1917 Pearl Lyman on tractor with his threshing machine. Standing is Mr.
Rockwood, small boy is Francis Lyman.
Pearl and Ruth Lyman 1930s

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Lyman-Yost
Charity Ellen Lyman, born 1889, was the daughter of Chauncey and Anna
Lyman. She grew up 5 miles east of Center Point, on a farm located at the
corner of Central City Road and Troy Mills Road. In 1905 she married
Dr. Charles G. Yost. They lived in Center Point at 603 Main Street, on the
corner of Iowa Street. They had no children. Dr. Yost practiced medicine
in Center Point for 55 years.
Ellen, as she was known, was a lover of animals. Her father-in-law, Dr.
Francis Yost, lived across the street at 520 Main Street. Behind that house,
a barn was built to house
Ellen’s animals; it was
referred to as “Ellen’s
Barn”. She had two
cows that she milked.
After they went dry, she
let them live out their
life in that barn. The pasture was across the street
between Water and Franklin where the Engelkens and
Hunters now live.
In addition to the cows, Ellen nurtured many,
many cats and dogs. People in town, who couldn’t
take care of their pets due to sickness, would take them
to Ellen for nursing and care until the end.
When Ellen’s father, Chauncey Lyman, died, the Yosts built a house for Ellen’s mother. The
house was located across the street from Ellen at 602 Main Street. A huge garden that was tended by
the Yosts was added to the backyard. Dr. Charles Yost died in 1956.
--Ronnie Lyman
Matheny
The Mathenys have lived in or around the Center Point
area since 1854. After six generations, the family still lives in
the area. The family history begins with Peter and Nancy
(Edaburn) Matheny, who moved to Linn County from Ohio in
1854. Peter was a carpenter and also engaged in farming. He
was an architect and contractor for many large and fine barns in
Linn County. Peter served in the Civil War. The couple had a son
named George. George, in turn, married and had a son named
Glen.
Glen married Olive (Bock) and together they had a son,
Dale. Glenn built a house in Center Point in 1917 when Dale
was one year old. He worked at the Snyder Nursery until 1929.
Glen then farmed until moving back into town in Center Point in
1947. In 1942, Glen bought the house at 1021 Main Street. In
1854, when the village later known as Center Point was surveyed,
Dale and Hazel Matheny
Howard Kirk helping build Ellen Yost barn. Steam trac-
tor mixing the cement.
Charity “Ellen” Lyman Yost

170
this was one of only two houses on the town plat. Dale says when his dad owned the house, they lifted
it up and put a block basement under it.
Glenn owned Matheny Grocery for nine months, then worked at Heverly Hardware and drove
the funeral coach for Murdoch Funeral Homes until 1978. When Dale was in the Navy during WWII,
he received word that his dad had a heart attack and he didn’t expect to make it home to see him alive,
but Glenn lived to age 100.
Dale attended school in Center Point, grades 1 through 12. For a short time, Dale attended
school in the old bank building on the NW corner of Main and State Street due to overcrowding. This
was the time of the depression so there was no dress code. Boys wore overalls and girls wore cotton
dresses.
Dale has many fond memories from school. One of his favorite teachers was Superintendent
Irons. During a morning assembly, he challenged the boys to stop smoking and drinking. He also
expected them to attend Sunday school every Sunday for the remainder of the school year. In exchange,
the boys would get an all-expense paid trip to the State Fair. Nine boys were able to rise to the challenge
and spend two days at the fair.
“Flunk Day” was a highlight of the school year. On the first nice day of the spring, the students
stood out on the lawn and yelled “Flunk Day!” when the bell rang. The teachers would grant students
an unscheduled day off.
Dale was active in sports. He played football in the 1930s for two years before the sport was
discontinued. Dale remembers that his team won one time during that period. There were no school
buses to take students to the games; everyone piled into cars. Coaches donated their time and players
were grateful to have “used” equipment. Dale also participated in basketball. The game was played in
the southwest corner of the gym. There were only three bleachers in the gym because parents didn’t
attend the games.
Because of the lack of money, there wasn’t much dating. There were lawn parties, an occasional
movie for 10 to 15 cents and concerts on Wednesday nights. Young people enjoyed each other’s company
on Summit Street while the adults were occupied on Main Street after the concerts. 4-H Club and
church youth groups also provided leisure activities.
The population of Center Point was about 500 people when Dale attended high school. He
knew everyone and where they lived. During that time, teenage boys could find a job at the canning
factory or lumberyard for 15 cents an hour.
Dale graduated from Center Point High School in 1933. He
married Hazel Hand in 1936. They
had three children: Jeanette, who married Philip Haars, and Doug, who married Connie Hall. Bernita
married Gerald Houts and who died in a car accident in 1969. Doug lives with his dad today.
Dale lives at 502 Main St., a home that holds many good memories. Dale remembers as a boy
of about 10 watching his home being moved into town, crossing a bridge, and being placed where it
now stands. It was there that Dale delivered ice for iceboxes at the time of his marriage, earning $10 a
week and paying $10 a month rent. He later owned a trucking business before serving in the Army
inWWII as a semi-truck driver. He was sent to Japan after the war where he enjoyed the countryside
and the Japanese culture. After returning from the service, he did custom corn shelling for area farmers.
In 1958 he opened a 24-hour truck stop called “150 Gulf Stop.” Hazel and he owned this business for
23 years until 1981.
--Dale Matheny, Jeanette Haars
McGinnis
Burgess and Eugenia (Bush) McGinnis were married in 1896. They had attended Illinois Normal
School in Chenoa, IL and then taught school for several years. They also ran a restaurant in Ottumwa

171
for a time, and later farmed at Jesup. They came to the Center Point area in 1920 and farmed east of
town.
Burgess’s parents were Andrew J. and Hannah S. McGinnis, born in Illinois and New Jersey,
respectively. Burgess was born in 1868. Eugenia’s parents were John Bush and Rebecca (Ohmit) who
were born in Pennsylvania and moved to Chenoa, IL, as young people.
Burgess and Eugenia had four children: Lula Belle, born 1899, Lena Mae, born 1901, Davidine
born in 1903 and Viola born in 1906. All four girls graduated from State Teachers College in Cedar
Falls and taught school.
Lula Belle began teaching in rural Black
Hawk County, Maynard and then Center Point. She
taught in Center Point for thirty-eight years to over
1,100 children. Most remember her as their 1
st
grade
teacher. She also played piano for school groups
and the United Methodist Church. Some of her
community activities included: Sorosis, Federated
Woman’s Club, Worthy Matron of Eastern Star, and
Lucretia Circle of Past Matrons, chairman of Local
Cancer drive and Christmas Seal and one of the first
members of the library board.
Lena taught Home Economics in Urbana
and Palo. She married Kenneth F. McNiel.
Davidine taught school in Quasqueton, Walker,
Cedar Rapids and Hiawatha. Viola taught school
in several towns before finishing her career in Center Point. Lula Belle, Davidine and Viola never
married and lived together at 220 Main Street.
Eugenia’s sister, Cora Bush, and a brother, Charles Bush, never married and always lived nearby.
All are buried in Center Point cemetery.
--Lois McNiel
McGonigle (Center Point’s first settlers)
Hamilton and Bartimeus McGonigle were brothers of Irish descent, born in 1807 and 1813 near
Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. Hamilton’s descendants used the surname spelling MeGonigle
and Bartimeus’s used McGonigle.
Hamilton married Mary Barklay Roop in 1831 and moved to Ohio. There, they had four children.
In the spring of 1839, Bartimeus and wife, Mary Catherine McDonald, and their two children left their
home in Pennsylvania to head west. They joined up with Bartimeus’s brother, Hamilton and his family.
Their destination was Iowa. They traveled by prairie schooner, making from fifteen to forty miles per
day, depending on terrain and weather. Years later, Vernonica, one on Hamilton’s daughters, vividly
recalled that the fording of the Mississippi River was quite an undertaking.
The two families arrived on July 4, 1839, in northern Linn County settling at what is now called
Center Point. They settled at the edge of the woods where the grove of trees projected out on the prairie
in a point-like fashion. This site was known as “McGonigle’s Point” and soon became a busy place as
other pioneers came to the area and made it their headquarters. Life on the prairie did not have many
idle moments. There were no stores to trade for goods. They literally lived off the land for food,
clothing and shelter. The Buchanan County history says during the middle and late 1840’s many farmers
l-r: Lula Belle McGinnis, Davidine McGinnis, Lena
(McGinnis) McNiel, Harold McNiel, Lois McNiel, Viola
McGinnis 1969.

172
from surrounding counties came to McGonigle’s Point for their supply of corn. It was described as the
“Egypt” of early settlers.
Bartimeus and Catherine added three more children to their family while living at McGonigle’s
Point: Clamanda, in 1841, John, in 1842 and William, in 1846. Bartimeus was a judge at Michael
Green’s house (an election precinct) in 1841 and was one of the first Linn County Commissioners
during 1842-43. He had a great interest in politics; later making a try for the legislature. The summer
of 1842 was an extremely dry one and there was a frost every month that year. The winter of 1843 was
terrible, the worst ever known in this region according to the oldest Indians. Mail to McGonigle’s Point
came by way of horseback from Marion, Iowa.
Hamilton and Mary added three more children to their family of six while they were living at
McGonigle’s Point: Alvi, in 1840, Nancy, in 1843, and Isabella, in 1845. It must have started to get
crowded in McGonigle’s Point because in the spring of 1846, Hamilton and Mary decided to move on
to Buchanan County to Quasqueton, then known as Trenton. Hamilton and Mary farmed near Quasqueton
on a farm on Pine Creek in the midst of the timber. They were blessed with ten children in total.
Hamilton died in 1867 and Mary died in 1896, both while still living on their homestead. They are both
buried in the Wilson Cemetery. In 1979 this farm was still inhabited by McGonigle descendents.
In spring of 1847, Bartimeus and Catherine and their family left McGonigle’s Point, selling
their farm to Hiram Campbell and went to Clayton County, settling on section 11, in Monona, where
they purchased land and engaged extensively in farming. There were nine children born to Bartimeus
and Catherine, two died as infants and their last child, Helen, was born in 1850 and died in 1872.
It was in 1853 that Bartimeus said good-bye to his family as well as his brother’s family and
went to California, where he was engaged in mining gold. He remained there until his death in 1868.
When he left, his oldest son, Charles, was seventeen and old enough to care for his mother and siblings.
Catherine was living in Elkader, Iowa, in 1881, with her son, Charles, and died in 1886 in Waterloo,
Iowa.
Center Point continued to be known as McGonigle’s Point until 1854 when a resurvey was
made of the village plat and a name had to be decided. Many felt the McGonigles should be honored as
they were the first settlers, but the majority thought the name should be changed to Center Point.
--Teresa Scheeler
Hamilton MeGonigle,
brother to Bartimeus
Mary Barklay
MeGonigle, wife of
Hamilton
Bartimeus McGonigle Mary Catherine
McGonigle, wife of
Bartimeus

173
McNiel
Franklin B. McNiel devoted his life to the operation of a 120-acre farm. He was born in
Washington Township in 1862. His parents, George T. and Mary M. (Penn) McNiel, were among the
early settlers of Linn County. They were married in Iowa and had five children: Aletha E., Edward,
Franklin B., Horace E. and Richard M. George T. McNiel farmed until his death in 1882. His wife died
in 1899.
Franklin attended the local school and lived with his parents until he was 28 years of age. He
met and married Lucy E. Priaulx who was born in 1863 in Jackson County, Iowa. Her parents were
John and Elizabeth (Ballieul) Priaulx, natives of France. They first located in Ohio. Later they moved
to Jackson County, Iowa. John Priaulx passed away in 1868 and his wife died five years later. They
were the parents of 14 children.
Franklin and Lucy were the
parents of four children: John H.,
Florence Bessie, Kenneth F., and
Clarence B. John, who was born in
1893 and married Eleanor Murray.
The couple had no children. They
lived in Center Point in their later
years.
Kenneth F. was born in 1904.
He married Lena Mae McGinnis in
1927. They lived in Illinois and
various Iowa towns before returning
to Center Point. Their children include
Lois D. McNiel, born 1932, and
Harold E. McNiel, born 1942 and died
December 27, 2001. Kenneth and
Lena ran McNiel’s Grocery for 18
years. When Kenneth died suddenly
on June 3, 1955, Lena continued to run the store for an additional twelve years.
Florence Bessie, born in 1902, was a college professor and world traveler; she never married.
Clarence B., born in 1907, married Doris Williams. Their children were: Richard, Nancy, Dale, Carol
and Opal.
--Lois McNiel
Oliphant
Perry Oliphant came to Iowa with his wife and children around 1839. Perry was born on
September 23, 1798, in Somerset County, Maryland. The family settled near West Otter Creek. The
Oliphant Cemetery, south of Center Point, is a part of that original homestead.
One of Perry’s children, Edward Oliphant, was born on December 18, 1823 in Ohio. Edward
married his first wife, Samantha Ankrom. The couple had four children, including Loren, before
Samantha died on January 24, 1861. Edward remarried to Mary Rauch and together they had nine
children. Tobias Oliphant was the oldest child of that union.
Loren was born on June 12, 1850. He married Mary Alice Elson and together they had seven
children: Harry, Jesse, Etta, Alta, Inez, Daisy and Marie Luciel. As a young man, Loren started as a
l-r: Frank, Eleanor, John, Kenneth, Bessie, and Lucy, Clarence
“Bill” in center.

174
farmer. Later, he got an education and became a dentist in Center Point. Loren died on November 27,
1903. He and his wife are buried in Oliphant Cemetery.
Tobias was born in 1862. He married Nelle Neighbor, who was born in 1868. Together the
couple had eight children: Forrest Everett, Frank, Norma, Leo (Smick), George (Barney), Wilbur (Shock),
Delmar (Teddy), and Rolland (Pats). Five of their children remained in the Center Point area. His son,
Frank, lived in Cedar Rapids and had no children. George lived in Center Point and had one child,
Louis.
Tobias’ sixth child, Wilbur, was born in 1900. In 1923, he married Glady Holloway, who was
born in 1897. They had one child, Norma Jean, who was in born 1925. Wilbur and Gladys farmed
south of Center Point until around 1937 and then moved into town. Wilbur worked for the Linn County
Road Department. He also served as mayor of Center Point for a time in the 1940s.
Wilbur’s daughter, Norma Jean, graduated from Coe College with a music degree in 1946.
While attending Coe, she served as assistant band director of the all-girls’ band. There were hardly any
boys attending college due to the war. The band toured by train to Chicago and to Army Hospitals and
bases. Norma Jean taught music at the Center Point School from 1946 to 1949. She married David R.
Bromwell who had a veterinarian practice in Center Point. Today the couple live in Springfield, IL.
Another of Tobias’ son, Delmar, was a Center Point area farmer. He married Bertha Cress and
they had no children. His youngest son, Rolland, lived in Toddville and then Cedar Rapids. He married
Leota Whitenack. She taught school in several locations including Center Point. They had two children,
Keith and Jean Ray.
Tobias died in 1940 and his wife, Nelle, died in 1941. All eight of their children and their
children’s spouses have also passed away except for Bertha Oliphant.
--Bertha Oliphant
Osborn
John Osborn is the Revolutionary soldier whose remains lie in the Center Point Cemetery.
Stephen Osborn, John’s son, had moved to Center Point in 1851. John followed his son to Center Point
in 1852. He lived with his son until his death in 1854.
John was born April 16, 1763 in Shenandoah County, Virginia. John enlisted in Montgomery
County, Virginia, to serve four months under his uncle, Enoch Osborn, captain of a Company in Colonel
Preston’s regiment of Virginia. The Company went to Whitton’s Station in Tennessee to fight against
the Shawnee and Cherokee Indians as well as the Tories. In the spring of 1781, he served six months
under the same officer at Blackmore Station, Tennesse, near the Cumberland Mountains to defend the
frontier settlement. He then served six months as a light horseman under Captain Gambrel in Colonel
William Campbell’s company in North Carolina, patrolling against Tories’ threats. Later he served as
a light horseman in a detachment of 300 soldiers under Colonel Cleve, searching for Tories. His last
tour was for twelve months at Whitton’s Station in Tennessee as a member of the militia.
John later married Sarah. John and his wife had ten children, six boys and four girls.
John’s wife, Sarah, was the niece of Daniel Boone. Sarah was the daughter of Hannah Boone
Stewart and John Stewart. Hannah Boone Stewart was the daughter of Sarah Morgan Boone and
Squire Boone who were the parents of Daniel Boone and nine other children besides Daniel and Hannah.
On June 17
th
, 1832, the War Department certified that John was a private in the Army of the
Revolution and was therefore entitled to receive approximately $80 per annum during his natural life.
Another of John’s sons, Robert Osborn, was one of the first settlers in Linn County. He had
built his cabin on Big Creek in March, 1838, an area that is located southeast of the present town site.

175
Robert and his wife have the distinction of being the parents of the first white child born in Linn County
on September 2, 1838.
Roseberry
When Austin and Susie Bumgardner Roseberry of Center Point celebrated their 80
th
wedding
anniversary Mar. 27, 1981, their achievement was featured in the Cedar Rapids Gazette. Later, a
Guiness Book of World Records official in England
told the Cedar Rapids Gazette reporter that the
Roseberrys appeared to be “the longest married living
couple in the world” at that time.
Austin Alpaugh Roseberry died at the end of
1981, about three weeks short of his 100
th
birthday.
Susan Emma Roseberry died six months later about
three weeks short of her 99
th
birthday. Austin and Susie
had farmed until their retirement, in 1952, when Austin
was 70. They moved to town and lived independently
in their Water Street home, putting in a big garden
every year until Austin’s death.
Their long story started when their parents
came from out East. Austin’s father was Winfield Scott
Roseberry, who was born in 1854 and died in 1926, and mother was Loretta Hassell Roseberry, who
was born in 1862 and died in 1947. The couple had married in New Jersey and moved to Grant
Township in 1879. Loretta’s mother, Sophia (Mutchler), who was born in 1835 and died in 1920,
accompanied the young couple. Austin’s parents farmed on various rented places in Grant Township.
Austin and Susie (Bumgardner) Roseberry,
Wedding picture, 1901.
The Austin and Susie
Roseberry Family, c.
1939. Front row l-r:
Bert, Evadene, Austin,
Roy, Susie, Claribel
and Paul. Back row:
Mark, Max, Violet,
Dallas, and Robert.

176
Susie’s father, John Dawson Bumgardner who was born in 1836 and died in 1919, came from
Ohio as a child. Susie’s mother, Mary Elizabeth Shaffer, was born in the Center Point area in 1857.
She died in 1901. Susie’s father was a carpenter and stonemason and also built bobsleds. The late Fern
Dennison, a most ladylike local lady, recalled those bobsleds were “hell for stout.”
The newlyweds, in 1901, lived in Center Point with Susie’s father and brother, John. She kept
house for them and Austin “worked on the section,” maintaining the railroad track north of Center
Point for the decent wage of $1.25 per day. While single, Susie had worked as a hired girl for a dollar
or two a week plus board. The second year of their long marriage, along with Austin’s parents, they
tried farming in far northwest Iowa near Rock Rapids. They moved back after three too-wet years (and
probably too-homesick years for Susie). The elder Roseberrys stuck it out another six seasons or so
before coming back.
Austin and Susie rented farms in the Center Point area until 1911 when they bought the 90-acre
core of the Roseberry home place on Fleming Road, northeast of Center Point. The home place is now
farmed by their grandson, Larry Roseberry, great grandson, Mark, and Mark’s three young sons.
By the time they bought the home place, Austin and Susie had three children: Violet (Elgin),
who was born in 1901 and died in 1989; Dallas, who was born in 1904 and died in 1979; and Robert,
who was born in 1908 and currently resides in Chicago. In the spring of 1911, the twins were born:
Winfield Max, who died in 2001, and John Mark, who died in 1970. The boys were named after their
grandfathers but they were always called by their middle names. Susie remembered the proud grandfather,
Win Roseberry, showing off the twins to the crowd that had gathered to watch the first airplane
“barnstorm” Center Point in 1913.
The Roseberrys gradually added acres to the home place, Belgian horses to the barn (up to about
20) and children to the family. Paul was born in 1913 and died in 2002; Claribel (Cress), now of
Onslow, was born in 1916; Evadene (Keith), now of Warwick, MA, was born in 1922; Bert was born in
1924; and Roy was born in 1929 and died in 2003. All the babies were born at home, of course. The
doctor’s bill for Robert’s birth was only $2 since the doctor had arrived late.
Austin sometimes contracted to haul ice with his teams from the Cedar River to Center Point’s
icehouses, one of which was just south of Wakema park. In the 1930s, he and some of the boys and six
of his teams hauled dirt for the first bridge across the Cedar River between Center Point and Palo.
Austin remembered when the farms around Center Point had jackrabbits and prairie chickens but no
pheasants and no soybeans. He bought his first car, a Chandler, in 1917 from Sel Hoglan in Center
Point and his first Allis Chalmers tractor in 1934.
Most of their children became farmers for a portion of their working lives. Mark and his wife,
Dorothy (Jilovec), always farmed and Claribel and her late husband, Forrest, farmed until retirement.
Bert and wife, Evelyn (Lanning), still raise Hereford cattle on their farm northeast of Center Point.
Dallas (wife Alta Hand) and Paul were truckers and Paul and his wife, Bernita (Simmen Cress), owned
the Center Point Hog Market. Max and Robert (wife Agnes Blin) worked at the packinghouse in Cedar
Rapids and Max and his wife, Louise (Lampman), later started Roseberry Hardware in Urbana. Evadene
and her husband, Howard, started out working on dairy farms in the East. She also worked as a school
secretary. Violet cooked at the old Killian’s Department Store restaurant in Cedar Rapids and her
husband John worked for the railroad. They also farmed and at one time ran a tavern, Jack and Vi’s, on
Main Street in Center Point. Roy farmed and later was a Linn County deputy sheriff. His wife, Mary
(Floyd), was a Linn County Clerk of Court and retired as Court Administrator.
At the time of their 80
th
anniversary, Austin and Susie calculated they had 27 grandchildren, 58
great grandchildren, and 17 great-great grandchildren. The annual Roseberry reunion, which started in
1937, is going strong, but it’s getting harder to keep up with the family count.
--Sharon Hannen

177
Schultz
Friederich Jochim Peter Schult,
also known as Joachim Schultz, was fifth
of nine children born to his parents. He
was born on November 23, 1842, in what
is now Germany. Joachim and his sister,
Dora, came to America through Ellis Island
in the fall of 1866. They were following
their Uncle Peter who located in the
Marion, Linn County, Iowa, area and their
brother, Carl, who later disappeared in
Broken Bow, Custer County, Nebraska.
Another brother, Fred, came to America in
1867; Henry, in 1869; and sisters Mary in
1868 and Sophia in 1870.
Joachim Schultz married Maria
Schroder (Mary Schrader) in Vinton, Iowa
around 1869. Maria was born on December 7, 1843. While Joachim farmed in the Shellsburg area, six
children were born: John, Louis, Beatrice, Arthur, Edward, and Harry. All except Edward never
married. Edward attended school when he was only four years old so that he could learn English.
About 1907, at the age of twenty-five, Edward bought what had once been the Chris Durow
farm three miles east of Center Point on what is now Schultz Road. Since trucks were not readily
available at that time, he walked his cattle from the Norway area of Benton County to the new farm, a
trip that took several days. Unfortunately, most of his livestock died after getting them to the farm.
Later he developed a fine herd of Double Standard Polled Herefords, some of which participated in the
1920 Center Point Fair Parade. The farm became known as “Ridgeview Stock Farm.”
Edward married Elsie Mae Comp on March 28, 1912, at the Methodist parsonage. Their offspring
included: Ferne, Mary, Lloyd Edward, Herman (stillborn), and Fred. Edward lived to the age of 92.
Edward’s daughter, Ferne, married Donald Glen Mollenhauer on February 14, 1937, at the
Center Point Christian Church. Their children included: Merle, Myrna (Krumm), Marvin, Linda (Cook)
and Francy (Haars). The couple farmed at the east edge of Center Point on a farm previously owned by
John Henry Schultz. Their son, Marvin, continues to live on the family farm today.
Edward’s son, Fred, lives on Schultz Road east of Center Point on what was once known as the
Ring place. His brother, Lloyd, and his wife, Fern Ritze, also lived at Ring place after their marriage on
January 11, 1941. The couple later moved to a farm known as the Augustine place. Lloyd and Fern had
three children: Lyle, Stanley, and Clyde. Stanley died in an auto accident in 1965. Fern lives in the
Northbrook Manor Care Center and would appreciate your visit.
Lloyd and Fern’s son, Lyle, married Mary Hicks on August 8, 1959. The couple had three
children: Lila, Daryl, and Gretchen. He remarried after his first wife’s death to Joyce Carrol Aurner on
September 5, 1964. Two additional children were born, Krista and Eric. The family lived on the
original farm owned by Edward Schultz until 1974 when they moved to locations in several other
states.
Lloyd and Fern’s son, Clyde, married Peggy Manley in 1974. The couple took over the ownership
of Edward’s farm from his brother. Their home, however, is located on the west side of Schultz Road.
Front row l-r: Edward, Freddie, and Elsie. Back row: Lloyd, Ferne,
and Mary Schultz in 1933.

178
Iowa (Rogers) Smiley
They have three children: Angelica, Trent and Drew. The Schultz farm will carry the distinction of a
being in the same family for 100 years in 2007.
--Lyle Schultz
Smiley-Liabo
Iowa Anna was the first child of Eliza Cheadle and Samuel Rogers
born in Iowa, thus her name. She was born in Keokuk in a covered wagon
in 1851. Her family came from Ohio and settled in Washington Township,
on a farm north of Center Point in 1853. Samuel, who died in 1857, and
Eliza, who died in 1901, are buried in the Center Point Cemetery.
Iowa’s formal education consisted of study at the Albion Seminary
for Teachers. She married Stuart Leslie Smiley in 1869. Smiley owned a
hardware store with Asa Cheadle, Eliza’s father, as well as a meat market
and a farm. He was also the proprietor of a hotel called the Washington
House. Iowa and S. Leslie built a home on Main Street in 1871, where
she lived until her death in 1941. S. Leslie died in 1900 at the age of 54.
The family remembers “Mamie” churning butter and making sour kraut.
She was interested in politics, always supporting the Democratic Party.
Although in later years she developed cataracts, she continued to read
with the aid of a strong magnifying glass.
Asa Cheadle, Iowa’s grandfather, held organizational meetings
in his home for the Evangelical Church, which later merged with the United Brethren and then the
United Methodists. He fought with Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys during the Revolutionary
War.
Edna was born in 1889, the youngest of four children of Iowa and S. Leslie Smiley. She was
born, lived, and died in the original family home. She graduated from Center Point High School in
1907 and attended Cedar Falls Teachers College and the University of Iowa. Edna taught for 12 years
in Linn County schools including Greens Grove and the double decker schoolhouse near Palo. She
taught first and second grades in Center Point. She loved music and often sang at weddings and
funerals. Edna was a member of the Marion-Linn D.A.R. and a charter
member of the Modern Book Club.
She served as a Democrat poll worker
for local and national elections.
In 1921, Edna married Carl
Liabo who came to Center Point in
1919 to practice dentistry after
graduating from the University of
Iowa. He was in the Army Medical
Corps during World War I. Carl was
a member of the Center Point School
Board for 20 years and for 12 of those
years was president. He served on
the City Council from 1933-1940.
Carl was Worshipful Master of the
Center Point Vienna Lodge in 1943.
He became a 32
nd
Degree Mason in
Carl E. Liabo “Doc” Edna Smiley Liabo

179
the Cedar Rapids Consistory.
Carl died in 1969, and Edna died
in 1972. Both are buried in
Center Point. They had four
children: Leslie, Jean, Patricia
and Darlene.
Leslie graduated from
Center Point High School in
1940 and the University of Iowa
in 1947. He served in the Army
Infantry during World War II.
Leslie married Doris Elliot,
daughter of Mary and Everett
Elliott. He was employed as a
plant manager of Iowa Milling
and supervised the construction
of two corn-processing plants.
He worked for Cargill and Archer
Daniels Midland. He was Chief
Executive Officer of American Maize in Stamford, Connecticut. Leslie and Doris live in Marco,
Florida. They have two sons and seven grandchildren.
Jean graduated from Center Point High School in 1943 and the University of Iowa in 1947. She
worked for the YMCA as program director for 20 years. She taught school for several years, the last
place being LaSalle High School. She served as a Democrat on the Linn County Board of Supervisors
for 24 years, the first woman elected to that board. Jean married Myron Oxley who farmed east of
Marion. Myron is now deceased. Jean lives in Cedar Rapids, and has two children and three
grandchildren.
Patricia graduated from Center Point in 1947, the University of Iowa in 1951, and Syracuse
University in 1972. She married Delmar Andersen of Walker and is a librarian.
Darlene graduated from Center Point in 1950 and Upper Iowa University in 1954. She taught
for 13 years including a term in Albion, Iowa. Darlene also taught in Idaho where she met and married
Bernard Bohling, now deceased. Darlene established the first pre-school in Center Point. She was a
rural mail carrier for 21 years, retiring in 1994. She lives in the original home located at 1308 Main
Street that Iowa and S. Leslie built. She has one son, 2 stepsons and 3 step-grandchildren.
--Darlene Bohling
Snyder
Abraham Snyder was born in 1836. He arrived in Linn County in 1855. He purchased farm
ground two miles south of Center Point, which he improved and cultivated until he served in the Civil
War. He enlisted for three years in Company A, Thirty-first Iowa Volunteer Infantry and participated in
32 skirmishes and engagements and was also with Sherman on his march to the sea. He fortunately
escaped injury but suffered severe sunstroke from which he never fully recovered.
In 1859 Abraham married Mary Chamberlain, who was born in Linn County on March 18,
1841. Mary’s parents, William and Rachel (Davis), were among the first settlers in this county in 1838.
It was believed that Mary was one of the first children to be born to a white settler in Linn County, and
North Main Street house c. 1890.

180
probably the first in Otter Creek Township. Mary’s brothers were the originators of the Chamberlain
Medicine Company.
Abraham and Mary had nine children: Simon operated the nursery,
Lawson married and moved to South Dakota; Eva and Minnie were
teachers; Arthur married and moved to Australia, and Davis operated
the nursery. The couple also had Ulysses, Ida, and Edwin, all of which
died in infancy.
Abraham devoted his life to raising the finest and hardiest
fruit and nut trees, vineyards and other stock on his nursery farm.
(see related story on the Linn County Nursery). He was also interested
in breeding Shorthorn cattle and Jersey Red swine. Abraham and
Mary were very prominent in the Center Point community. They were
members of the Methodist Episcopal Church with Abraham teaching
bible classes and holding the office of Superintendent of Sunday
school.
In Abraham’s early years, he was a teacher in the district
schools. Abraham died in 1901. Mary continued to own the homestead
comprised of 200 acres, while her sons Simon and Davis continued to
operate the Linn County Nursery and Fruit Farm. In 1908 they
purchased 50 acres at the east edge of Center Point along Iowa and
Franklin Streets where they expanded their nursery business. Simon
died in 1932 and Davis retired in 1947.
Brother Lawson, who moved to South Dakota, married Helen Green and they had two children,
Marion and William Ellsworth. William Ellsworth and his wife had 8 children of which one, William
Davis, returned to live on the Snyder homestead in Center Point. William D. married Jean Boschma
and they lived with their three children on the homestead until 1993. The family then moved to Cedar
Rapids. Currently Jeff and Cindy Squires and sons live on the Snyder homestead and nursery farm at
4250 N. Center Point Rd.
--William “Bill” Snyder
Drawing in 1887 Photographic and Biographical Album of Linn County
Abraham Snyder, founder of Linn
County Nurseries, born 1836.

181
Squires
Milton Squires settled in section 35
of Washington Township, south of
Center Point, in June of 1840.
Section 35 is located approximately
5 miles south of Center Point, in an
area known as Greens Grove.
Milton and his brother, Martin,
came to Iowa from Kentucky. They
made their journey on horseback
crossing the Mississippi River at
New Boston. Milton built a 12’x14'
log cabin (near where the Squires -
Oliphant Cemetery is located) and
claimed 271 acres of fine farming
land located between what is now
Hagerman Rd, Greens Grove Rd,
Nelson Dr. and Quail Ridge Rd. He
was educated by a subscription
school and farmed all of his life.
Milton was born in Virginia in 1811 and married Ester Gilbert in 1841. They had one daughter.
Ester died in 1844. Milton then married Eliza J. (Mintie) Mounce in 1846. They had 10 more children
for a total of 7 girls and 4 boys.
One of the boys was Smith Squires. Smith was born in 1856 near Center Point and died in
1920. He married Magdalene Williams in 1885. They farmed in the Greens Grove area most of their
lives. They built a home and raised 2 children, Milton (named after his grandfather) and Elsie (Dot).
This farmstead is located where Tom and Tammy Benda now live on Quail Ridge Rd. Smith donated
the land to be used for the Squires-Oliphant cemetery and for the Greens Grove Church.
Milton was born in 1886 and died in 1966. He married Elsie Lanning in 1907. They had 4
children: Melvin, Gilbert, Roy and Darlene. Milton and Elsie lived and farmed the Smith Squires
place, until they built a home about a half-mile east on what is now Quail Ridge Rd. Milton was
known throughout the area for good workhorses. He was the first in the area to get an Allis Chalmers
combine and would do custom combining for other farmers in the area. Milton and his family also had
a large herd of Holstein cows, which they milked and then sold the cream to the local dairy. They also
raised hogs, sheep and chickens and always maintained a large garden.
Melvin married Amy Jones. The couple started their family and farmed on the original Smith
Squires place. In 1954, they moved to a farm that had been in Amy’s family, 1.5 miles south of Center
Point (where Jerry and Robin Squires live now). They had 3 boys: Everett, Kenny and Leslie.
Everett married Darlene Sanders and live and farm 1.5 miles south of Center Point. They have
4 children: Julie Jeff, Jerry and Jody, 9 grand children and 1 great grand child. Kenny married Joyce
Loveless. The couple live and farm 5 miles east of Center Point and have 3 children: Lynnette, Kevin,
and Tammy; 10 grandchildren; and 1 great grandchild.
Leslie is a medical doctor and lives in San Francisco where he has a general practice.
Gilbert married Iva Jones. They lived and farmed in the Greens Grove area also. Their farm
was located on Quail Ridge Rd just north of the Smith Squires farm. They have one son, Larry. Iva and
Larry now live in Center Point.
Squires Family 1942
back l-r: Melvin, Roy, Gilbert. Front: Milton, Darlene, Elsie.

182
Roy married Leola Michels and lived and farmed the original Smith Squires place. They have 3
children: Bob, Bruce and Terry; 7 grandchildren; and 2 great grandchildren. Bob and Leola still live on
part of the original Smith Squires farm where Bob still does some farming.
Darlene Squires married David Craig and they have lived in Center Point since 1954. They
have 2 children, Daphne and Steve, and 4 grandchildren. They have owned and operated Craig’s
Appliance in Center Point for 50 years.
Farming has always been the main occupation of the Squires family. Many of the descendants
of Milton Squires still live and farm in the Center Point area. Six families and five generations of
Squires occupied the original Smith Squires farm on Quail Ridge Road. Smith Squires first occupied
the ground, followed by Milton Squires, Melvin Squires, Roy Squires, Bob Squires, and now Tammy
Squires Benda (granddaughter of Melvin).
There are 37 descendants of the second Milton Squires and the majority of them still live in
the Center Point area today.
--Daphne Miller
Street-Busenbark
Ike Street was born on a farm, a mile north of Center Point, in 1869, to William and Amanda
(Moore). Ike remembered that in the fall, the Indians would camp in the timber where Fross Park is
located today. The Indians would come to the house to get water from the well with the oak bucket. Ike
spent the first seventeen years of his life on the farm. He attended West School, which was located a
mile and a half west of Center Point. He graduated from the Center Point High School.
Upon graduation, Ike ventured to Chicago where he secured a job with the Pullman Car Co. He
remained there for eight years and became an expert painter and decorator. Ike married Ora Lee Myers
in 1891. Together they had three children: Arthur, Iris, and Willard. Ike and his family returned to
Summer of 1944
l-r: I. T. Street, Hillis Whiteneck, Lillie Street, John Busenbark, Norma Whiteneck, Erma Busenbark and
Tom Busenbark (child).

183
Center Point in 1904. His wife died in 1906 and Ike remarried to Lillian Myers, approximately one
year later. Ike and Lillian had two daughters, Norma and Erma.
Ike purchased the Smiley meat market and operated it for a short while before he returned to
painting for a living. He tried owning his own business a second time with a partner, Bill Bascom.
They jointly purchased a grocery and meat market from Chas. Kelty. A couple of years later he sold out
his portion of the business to his partner and returned to painting.
In 1915, Ike was appointed postmaster, a job he held for the next nine years. In 1925, Ike
bought the Langsdale Grocery Store. He continued operating the store until 1933, when he turned the
management over to his daughter, Erma. Ike then bought a farm at the edge of Center Point on Green
Street. He sold shares to area farmers. Erma remembers Ike telling her, “mother wants me to stay
home.” Ike enjoyed painting pictures. He was also handy painting, wallpapering and varnishing.
Ike Street was a prominent member of the community. He was involved in the Evening Star
Lodge, Knights of Pythias, the Odd Fellow Lodge of Center Point and the Community Club. He also
served on the city council and was a member of the School Board during the building of the new school.
The city had authorized bonds totaling $9,000 for the construction and furnishing of the new school.
The School Board felt that the amount of money was insufficient. They beat an injunction that attempted
to restrain the Board from any building. The Board quietly appealed to the State Legislature and
secured an enabling act, allowing them to raise an additional $3,000. Ike’s name is set in stone on the
front of the school building.
Ike died in 1950; his wife Lilly died in 1957.
Ike’s son, Willard, served in the navy during World War I. When he returned he worked at the
Center Point Post Office and then served as postmaster for many years.
Ike’s daughter, Erma, was born in June 1915. She started working in her father’s store when she
was thirteen. It was her job to deliver groceries to the gravel pit north of town twice a day. Erma
remembers driving to Cedar Rapids when she was fourteen to purchase supplies for the store. Her
father had also volunteered Erma to drive women who were expecting babies to the University of Iowa
Hospital and Clinics. Erma is happy to report that nothing unexpected occurred while she chauffeured
the women.
Erma had hoped to go to nursing school in Chicago when she graduated from high school. Ike,
however, wanted Erma to stay in Center Point and work in the store. Erma met her future husband,
John Busenbark, while working at the store. The couple was married in August 1940. Erma and John
purchased the store and continued operating it for a couple more years. When the war started, managing
the store became more challenging. Erma had difficulty finding anyone who would work. She also had
difficulty stocking the store because of the rationing. They finally closed the store in 1944.
Erma’s husband, John, was drafted for the war. He failed the physical because he had flat feet
and false teeth. Instead, John worked for Caterpillar transporting war material.
John and Erma had two children, Susie and Thomas. John started working for MAC truck as a
salesperson to the dealers in Iowa and Nebraska. He was on the road a lot, so Erma decided to start
working part time at Wyeth’s Grocery. In 1954, Dr. Kenneth Andersen asked Erma to work for him.
She helped with the office management and assisted the doctor. Many residents probably remember
Erma taking temperatures, putting on casts and cutting them off again. Erma retained her position for
the next twenty-two years. John eventually stopped traveling and took a job at the Cedar Rapids
Chevrolet dealership.
Erma and John were active in the community, having memberships in the Masonic lodge, the
Community Club, the Methodist Church and a garden club. John was also a served as Mayor of Center
Point and as a Council Member. John died in August, 2003. Erma still lives in her own home.
--Sue Novak, Erma Busenbark

184
Tunks
Glenn Tunks lived in Center Point his entire life. His family consisted of wife Irene, daughter
Yvonne (now of Cedar Rapids), son Gary (now of
Wickenburg, Arizona), father Lewis (a local carpenter),
and brother Don who worked in the area before entering
the service in WWII. Glen drove the tank wagon for
the now defunct Skelly Oil Company for between 25 to
35 years before ill health forced him to retire.
Glenn delivered gas and other Skelly products
to many farmers in the area. He also delivered fuel oil
for many homes in Center Point and the surrounding
area. He was in charge of the Skelly storage tanks located
at the edge of town by the Central City Road. He
delivered gas to stations in Urbana, Walker, Troy Mills,
Midway and to two stations located in Center Point. One
station was located on Main Street next to the LJL Hall. The other station was located on the highway
where the Texaco station operated by Kevin Rhinehart now stands.
Glenn’s family remembers his participation in the Center Point centennial celebration in 1954.
He represented the Methodist Church in the parade, riding a horse and acting the part of the first circuit
rider to bring the beginnings of a church to the Center Point community.
--Yvonn Elliot
Wiegand
Ray Theodore Wiegand (b. 1896) married Lillian Idella Ruka (b. 1896) in 1919. They had three
children: Arvel Ray (Butch) (b. 1921), Howard Nolen (Buzz) (b. 1924), and Eva Jane (b. 1932). The
family moved to Center Point from Belmond, Iowa, in December of 1935. Ray owned half of the
Community Meat Market until 1937. He retired from Cherry Burrell in 1961.
Butch served in the Army during WWII. He worked at Wilson & Co. in Cedar Rapids.
He never married.
Buzz married Twylah Eudora Oliphant (b. 1925) in 1943. They had four sons: Kimball
Howard, Kendall Ray, and Kirk Nolen. Their fourth son died in infancy. They farmed near Urbana and
Buzz also made dentures. Kim had three children: Aaron John, Richard Howard and Melanie Ann.
Kim lives in Montezuma, Iowa. Kendall married Cynthia Jeanne Sweeting Andrews in 1986. They
had two daughters, Anna Rose and Ashley Murie. Kirk had three children: Kasey Lawrence, Kara
Christine, and Travis Thomas. Kendall and Kirk and their families live near Urbana.
Jack married Eva Jane Wiegand (b. 1932) in 1953. They had four children: Aileen Ann, Cheryl
Lynn, Carol Rae, and Jon Glenn. Aileen married Richard Kirk Stofer in 1973. They had one daughter,
Lisa Ann. Lisa had two children from her first marriage: Lillian Ashley Zerkle and Richard Valentine
Zerkle. Lisa and her first husband divorced. She married Shane Travis Kula in 2003. Carol married
Gary Arnold Gibbs in 1985. They had three sons: Alexander Martin, Matthew Fredrich, and Lucas
Ray. Jack and Eva Jane, Aileen and Kirk, Lisa and Family, and Jon all live in Independence. Cheryl
lives south of Center Point. Carol and family live on the Gibbs’ family farm near West Union, Iowa.
and gravy, vegetable, roll and drink cost 25 cents. Woods sold the restaurant in 1948 or 1949.
--Bob & Gladys Woods
Glenn Tunks

185
Shorty and Myrt Woods in front of their res-
taurant, of Franklin (today Heins Barber-
shop). Notice war service banner in win-
dow for 3 sons serving in WWII.
Ray, Della, and Butch are buried in the Center Point Cemetery. Twy is buried in the Urbana
Cemetery.
Woods
Clarence “Shorty” and Myrtle “Myrt” Woods came to
Center Point around 1929 to open a café on west side of Main
Street, between Washington and State Streets. The couple had
three boys, Robert “Bob”, Charles “Bill” and Leonard “Lenny.”
The family lived upstairs over the café.
Sometimes dances were held in the restaurant with local
bands performing. Patrons often threw their coats on the three
Woods children who were supposed to be sleeping. They also
held exercise classes and other activities at the café. The worst
feature of the building was the rest rooms, which were located in
the cellar.
Starting a business during the Depression was
challenging, and the Woods left Center Point after a few years. In
1935, the family returned to Center Point. They rented a house
on the edge of town; Shorty did odd jobs and Myrt cleaned houses.
Shorty felt the boys needed more to do, so they purchased a cow
for the boys to milk.
The family decided to try the restaurant business again.
They rented the downstairs of the old hotel on Franklin, now Gary
Heins’ residence and Barber Shop. They opened a café called S
& M Sandwich. It was the place to go after games for a hamburger.
In the back they had a “chat” room where the kids could gather and play records. The upstairs of the
hotel continued to be rented. Before school buses were available, many girls, who lived in the country,
worked there for their room and board and went home on weekends.
When the last residents of the hotel vacated, Woods bought the building for $1,000, making
monthly payments of $10. The family lived upstairs. There was one big room, lots of small rooms and
a bathroom.
The Woods boys enjoyed growing up in Center Point. The boys would frequently camp by the
river and men without work would look after them. One time, Bob had made a big radio set under the
stairs. All the neighbor kids loved it. Bob would go to bed with the headphones on his head; Myrt
worried he would strangle himself.
During World War II, prices at the restaurant were frozen. A plate lunch including meat, potatoes
and gravy, vegetable, roll and drink cost 25 cents. Woods sold the restaurant in 1948 or 1949.
Wormer
The Frank Wormer family loved at 815 Franklin for many years. Frank and Hannah Wormer
were a part of the Wormers who were early residents of Center Point. Chet (Jess) and John Wormer ran
the Chevrolet garage in town. Frank may have worked in the Post Office, but at the time his neighbors
knew him, he was retired. Hannah was a lovely lady and a good neighbor to the Holmans, who lived
next door.

186
The Wormers shared many things with the Holman
children including: birthdays, Boston terrier dogs, and
Hannah even let Sara Ann come into their home to
suck her thumb in peace. They had a tornado/fruit cellar
in their back yard that was a favorite place for the
children in the neighborhood to hide and play.
The Wormers had two daughters, Winifred and
Grace. Winifred lived with her parents. She was a
teacher in the Center Point Schools and continued as a
substitute teacher after she retired. Grace worked in
the library at the University of Iowa.
Frank died about 1935. Hannah and Winifred
continued to live in the home until Hannah died. At
that time, Winifred married a long time friend and
moved to Tama, Iowa.
--Sally Hill
Winifred and Grace and parents, Frank and Hannah.

187
School History
The School Building and Growth
The future of any community lies in its school
system, and Center Point was no exception. Youngsters
in the community began learning their “3 R’s” in 1856
in a log school built just northwest of town. Mr. Wilcox
taught the first classes in the winter of 1856.
Following the growth and “birth” of Center
Point, the school was moved into town in 1858. This
wood building, originally costing $1,250, was an
excellent start. As the community grew, it was obvious
that the
facilities
were
much too small. In 1875 an addition, equal in size to
the one already in use, was built at the cost of $2,150.
This provided four good-sized school rooms which were
considered “plush” at the time. The school had four
teachers: Mrs. Leonard, Miss Clarinda Wilson, Mrs.
Louise Sweeney, and Mrs. O. F. Fisher (who also served as
principal).
This
building
was
divided
and made into two homes. One is the Ted Callahan home
located at 1016 Water Street. The other half was the Pearl
Johnson home which was located in Fross Park but was
torn down around the year 2000.
In March 1903, a bond issue vote was held.
Ladies, as well as men, could vote on the bond issue.
Seventy-seven ladies took their turn at the polls with 53
voting for and 23 against. Gentlemen voting also passed
the issue as 128 men voted for the bond issue and 62
against. The proposition to bond the district to build a
$10,000 school house carried by a more than 2 to 1 vote.
Center Point School circa 1875 built on SW corner
of current school lot.
Log house believed to be first school
Center Point School circa 1858

188
Later it was learned that only $6,300 in
bonds could be issued. The community
was then asked to vote for a tax not
exceeding ten mills on the dollar to
supplement the bond issue. This also
passed. The school was built on the
present site.
As education grew, students
wanted to continue their schooling after
leaving Center Point. In June 1914, the
school became accredited, allowing
Center Point graduates to continue their
education at the three state schools:
Iowa State Teachers’ College, the State
College of Agriculture and Mechanics’
Art and the State University.
A September 27, 1917, article in the
Center Point Independent presented the need for a
gymnasium at the school. At the time, students played basketball in Yost Hall which was rented by the
district. This hall was located on the upper story of a business building on the southwest corner of
Main and Washington. The school
had made several improvements in
the hall and yet, it wasn’t ideal for
the players. It seemed to make more
sense to build and maintain a
structure of their own. At that time,
they already had $260.10 of the $650
to $700 needed for the building
project. The article asked for
subscriptions from individuals in the
community to aid the project. With
the help of students and parents, the
wood structure went up on the
southwest corner of the school lot.
The building was to be 56’ long and
34’ wide. A 10’ attachment on each end was to be used for dressing rooms and “shower baths.” One
end of the gym housed a large round stove with wire around it for safety. Two decks of seats lined each
side of the floor for the spectators who eagerly followed the sport. Sidewalks on the south led to the
boys outhouse and the north side had a sidewalk to the girls outhouse.
School board minutes from October of 1933 proposed renovations and the addition of classrooms
and a gymnasium to the building at an estimated cost of $16,700. The voters of the community again
showed their support at the polls in February of 1934 as they passed a bond issue for $12,000 with 245
voting for and 54 against.
On June 26, 1951, in a special, election voters approved spending $5,000 for constructing a
two-classroom school building on the present school site. The 28’ x 40’ frame building was built
adjacent to the main building on the south. The west side of the building was used for typing classes
and the east for the band. The rooms had oak floors, sheet rock walls, and acoustical tile ceilings. An
Center Point School built in 1903. Note the outhouse shown in the
bottom left of photo.
The first Center Point gymnasium

189
Center Point School as shown in the 1949 year book
oil burner in each room provided the needed
heat. An article in a local newspaper praised
the school board for providing needed rooms at
a minimum expense to the district.
Consolidation plans for the Center Point
district were arranged and the many country
schools in the area held their last classes in May
1952. Those merging with Center Point were
the Washington rural independent district,
Washington township district, and 13 ½ sections
in the southern half of Grant township. In the
fall of 1952, there were 211 high school students
and 99 students in the grades. This jump in
enrollment soon made it necessary for additional
classroom space.
In March of 1953, voters approved $190,000 bond issue for building and furnishing an addition
and reconstructing and equipping the existing building. The $200,000 addition took 15 months to
complete. This new addition was built in 1954 on the north side of the existing building. It provided
rooms for a kindergarten, four grade clasees, commercial classes, home economics, science, music,
and shop. A classroom from the old building was also remodeled to provide a reception room,
superintendent’s office, board meeting room, and restroom. At this time, the frame building built in
1951 was moved to provide a house for the superintendent. Once the building was moved, a breezeway
and garage were added. This building is now the district office. District enrollment at this time was
running around 475 students K-12.
In 1957, the district once again needed additional space and a $78,000 bond issue was the
answer. These bonds allowed the district to add basement rooms as well as a single story addition to
the south side of the building.
The kitchen, which was in the basement of the 1903 building, was definitely too small by 1961.
At a special election voters approved a bond issue in the amount of $118,000 and also authorized the
Board of Education to spend $23,000 from the schoolhouse fund. This included a second floor addition
to the south wing, an all-purpose room and connecting hallway, and a new kitchen. The second floor
addition was the first part of the project and was completed by January of 1962. The hallway and all-
The recently completed 1954 addition from the front (left) and back.

190
purpose room, which would serve as cafeteria and band rehearsal room, were finished for classes the
following fall. The final cost of the 12,224 square foot addition was approximately $141,000.
A 1968 bond issue received overwhelming support from the community. The addition actually
consisted of two parts and took almost two years to
complete. On the west side of the building, the shop was
expanded with a band room above it. A second addition
was attached to the south end of the 1957 addition. On
the upper level, the addition included a new media center
of the junior and senior high. The ground level had a
second media center for the elementary, an art room,
elementary principal’s office, and audio-visual room.
Four attempts at passing bond issues in the 1970’s
failed. However, by 1984 the need for construction was
apparent. A multiple step project began with the
construction of a new gymnasium. This allowed the old
gymnasium to be converted into 4 high school and 5
elementary classrooms, which were occupied by students
in early 1985. The new gymnasium area cleared out the old locker room area. A little remodeling and
this space provided a wrestling room and a classroom.
The fall of 1989 brought changes to the Center
Point district. Urbana, Shellsburg, and Center Point
had been looking into the possibility of whole grade
sharing during the previous year. As the districts
continued to talk, Shellsburg chose to go a different
direction and Center Point and Urbana started a shared
program. This seemed to make sense since the two
districts had been sharing athletic programs for a few
years. At the same time, the old bleacher area was
remodeled providing a large vocal music room and
an additional classroom. The former elementary
media center was remodeled to become an additional
kindergarten room.
Second story being added to the 1957 addition in 1961. A view of the AP room and hallway from the outside.
The new library under construction, 1968.
The new gymnasium as it looked in the fall of 1985.

191
The school officially consolidated
in 1993 to become the Center Point-
Urbana Community School District. The
elementary (grades K-4) and high school
met in the Center Point building and the
Urbana building housed the middle
school (grades 5-8).
Since the mid-1990’s, both the
Center Point and Urbana communities
have been growing. In 1997, the district
was literally running out of room. With
the community’s support, a bond issue
passed to build a new elementary school.
The school was a pod design, which
would make it easy to add on as needed. Also at this time, seven rooms were added to the Urbana
middle school. As continued growth caused
additional sections at each grade the new building
was soon too small. In 2003 an additional pod was
added to the elementary as well a new small gym for
physical education. At the same time, four more
classrooms were added in Urbana.
The Booster Club assisted the athletic
program by financing a high school addition
consisting of a weight room and wrestling room. The
wrestling program had outgrown the wrestling room
remodeled in 1986 and had been practicing in the
AP room after school. This 2003 addition, attached
to the all-purpose room, finally gave the wrestling
program a home of its own.
Urbana-Center Point Middle School.
The weight/wrestling room, 2004.
Center Point-Urbana Elementary, May 2004

192
Interior shot of new wrestling room.
2004 view of Center Point-Urbana High School, southeast side.
Interior shot of new weight room.
In 1954, the district included 50.5 square miles which were covered by six buses. By the 1962-
63 school year there were 587 students in the district. Buses covered 45,447 miles with an average per
pupil cost of $46.89. In 2004 the Center Point-Urbana Community School District serves 1,192 students.
The district covers 90 miles and the busses run 61,560 miles, excluding activity or field trips, at a per
pupil cost of $174.49. One can only wonder how these figures will have changed 50 years from now.

193
Entrance to Center Point-Urbana High School, 2004.
2004 view of Center Point-Urbana High School, southwest side.
2004 view of CPUHS, northeast side.
Center Point-Urbana Board of Education
2004
Seated (l-r): Tammy Carolan, Board Sec-
retary Katherine Thomas, Carol Engelken.
Standing: Superintendent John
Rothlisberger, Board President Todd
Ramsey, Kelly Bonar, and Scott Millikin.

194
Bits and Pieces
The items in this section were collected from articles in local papers or school publications. They
are far from a complete representation of important events. Rather, they are intended to give a flavor of
changes in culture over the years.
1880’s
Nov. 1885: The school board met Wednesday evening and hired the teachers for the winter and spring
terms. All the present teachers are retained with an increase of wages. The principal will receive $70
per month, intermediate $35, and the primary $30.
1910’s
1915: A course in Home Economics was first offered, using oil stoves with ovens.
Sept. 30, 1917: The Zetagathian Literary Society of Center Point High School was organized, 40
members strong. The purpose is “to develop the talent of the different members, and to give each and
every one in the society some training in Literary work.” Money made by the society would be used to
help pay the expenses of the Debating and Declamatory contests carried on by the high school.
1917: Clionian Literary Society had 40 members and a motto of “On to Perfection”. One main
objective was to enable the members to appear before an audience without embarrassment or stage
fright. Another was to provide clean, interesting entertainment for the public.
1918: Circumstances prevented either a baseball nine or a track team but those who were interested
played tennis for recreation.
Cover and contents of 1888 commencement program.

195
1920’s
Jan. 15, 1925: Mandatory small pox vaccinations were required by the school board as there was an
outbreak of small pox was in Cedar Rapids.
1930’s
Feb. 2, 1931: The graduating class will give the program instead of having a speaker for commencement.
March 1931: The junior class annual banquet would be in Center Point, not in Cedar Rapids as the
students had wanted.
Dec. 14, 1931: Students caught smoking on school property will be expelled. There was discussion of
adding a balcony to the gymnasium.
Oct. 9, 1932: Students caught in the act of hazing other students will be suspended.
May 26, 1934: The old school gymnasium was sold for $165. Also some items were sold piece by
piece to the highest bidder such as toilets, doors, and the furnace. The district received $181.60 after
paying the $5 auctioneer fee.
Aug. 13, 1934: School board decides dancing would NOT be allowed at any time on or in school
property.
Nov. 1, 1934: The school board decides to charge $2.50 per night for the use of the gymnasium by
outside groups.
April 2, 1936: School board votes to require 30 credits for graduation.
1940’s
Feb. 1946: Center Point ran its string of victories to 18 for the
season without a single defeat when the Pointers won the Linn
County Prep title last weekend at Springville. The basketball
team scored 433 points for the season with Bus Zeiser sparking
the attack fashioned by Coach Bob Bowers.
Jan. 1947: Rural voters turned down 226 to 164 a proposed
school consolidation . Vote from the Town and Independent
District area was 195 for and 19 against. The issue was defeated
because a majority in both areas was necessary. Poll turnout
showed 600 voted out of a possible 1030.
Feb. 1947: For the second consecutive year boys have brought
County Championship honors to Center Point. The team won
over St. Wenceslaus and Martelle and will meet Solon next in
Sectional play.
Drivers Sam Lewis, Jr. (left) and Sam
Lewis, Sr. with the district’s first school
bus.

196
June 1947: Work began on a new baseball park. The new playground is being constructed on land
purchased from Dr. Charles Yost, just southwest of the school campus, by the local school board. An
area about 500 feet square is to be leveled to accommodate the diamond, field, and parking space.
1947: School hot lunch program started.
June 1948: At the end of the school
year 1947-48, the Alice School
District one room school was going
to have 40 plus children for the fall
of 1948. A meeting was forthcoming
with the Alice district and the Center
Point School Board. The Center
Point Board decided to accept the
Alice children. According to the
Center Point board minutes of June
1948, the decisioin was made to
purchase a 42 passenger bus from
Hendryx Motors for $3,500. Sam
Lewis, Sr. was hired to drive the bus
which would pick up the Alice
students and some from the
Washington Independent district.
Sam was chosen since he owned a local trucking business and knew the area. Sam Lewis, Jr., his son,
was also a sub and later drove the p.m. route. In 1948, the Central City road and the roads north and
south as far as the transformer were dirt and gravel. when it rained or snowed they were sometimes
impassible.
1950’s
May 1951: The band paraded with 35 other bands in Cedar Rapids to open festivities for the 6th
Annual Eastern Iowa Band Festival.
The bus and its passengers in 1948.
Pictured to the left is the cafeteria crew of Center
Point School as it appeared in Wallaces’ Farmer
and Iowa Homestead of February 19, 1949. An
excerpt from the article reads: “In Center Point,
Mrs. Hattie Rogers is head cook. She plans the
menus and does the shopping. She has two women
to help her and high school girls clean up the din-
ing room tables, although everyone cleans his own
plate. Center Point manages on 25 cents a day or
$1.00 for a week ticket.

197
Summer 1953: The annual alumni picnic was
held with 78 attending, including Inez Wormer,
the only living member of the Class of 1903.
1954: At this time, the area of the district was
50.5 square miles with a tax base of slightly over
$3,000,000.00. Six school buses provided the
necessary transportation for the rural students.
Board members were were: Glenn Hoglan, Lloyd
Grubbs, Roy Andrews, Virgil Heins, and Lloyd
Jones.
Nov. 1954: Parent-Teacher Association--the first
in more than 15 years--was organized in the
previous spring. By this time there were 150 members and the group was still growing. Jack Kidd was
the current president.
1955: The Pointer was published the last school day of each month.
1957: The total enrollment was 536. Elementary grades: 414; high school: 122. The lunch program
served 485 lunches daily, 457 to students and the rest to teachers and others.
1957: The athletic department held a pancake supper with the proceeds going to buy new uniforms.
Tickets: Adults, $1.00; children 50 cents.
Jan. 27, 1958: A new library deposit box was made by Marvin Mollenhauer. The box was black with
gold lettering and white legs.
1958: The 1958 edition of the
Pointer year book was sold for a $1 down and a $1.50 to be collected on
delivery.
Elementary classroom or Miss Lula Belle McGinnis, 1953.
November 1954: Superintendent H. P. Main
of the Center Point school system and Mrs.
Main stand on the front steps of their still-
uncompleted house, which is owned by the
school district. Built to house the school’s
commercial and music rooms, the bulding
was moved this year to a Palo road location
at the edge of Center Point and remodeled
as a superintendent’s residence. The house
has five rooms and a bath.

198
1960’s.
March 31, 1960: Muddy roads made many country
road impassable for heavy vehicles such as buses.
Buses ran only on the surfaced highways and tractors
with wagons met them to take the children the rest of
the way home. Some tractors even picked the
students up at the school building.
Jan. 21, 1963: Music Mothers sponsor annual chili
supper in AP Room. Junior high chorus, under the
direction of Mrs. Arthur Williams, and the two
elementary bands, under the direction of Mr. David
Emde performed at the supper. Cost: 75 cents for
adults, 50 cents for children.
Summer 1963: Center Point buses traveled 45,447
miles during the 1962-62 school year. The average
cost per pupil was $46.89.
Sept. 1963: 607 students are enrolled, a gain of 20 over the previous year. This includes 349 elementary,
99 junior high, and 159 high school students. Book rent was as follows: K-$3, elementary/junior high-
$5, senior high-$6. Lunch fees were 30 cents per meal. This was the fifth year that prices were not
changed.
Oct. 25, 1963: The annual Music Department Fall Concert was held for the first time in three years.
Admission was 35 cents per student and 60 cents per adult.
Oct. 30, 1963: The Center Point Lions organized a meeting to consider the inauguaration of an inter-
scholastic athletic football, track, and wrestling program at the school. Formation of a Center Point
High School All-Sports Booster club took place at the public meeting which was held at the high
school and attended by some ninety people. Approximately $1,500 toward an athletic fund was pledged
from the floor of the meeting, the start of a community wide pledge drive. Initial officers were: Dick
Holman, President; DeWayne Krumm, Vice-President; Harold Vos, Secretary; and Harry Brookman,
Treasurer.
1965: Center Point hosted its first foreign exchange student, Marcelo Rivas from Las Heras, Argentina.
Feb.16, 1969 Center Point girls basketball team won its 18
th
straight game and wound up with an
unbeaten season, becoming Tri-Rivers champs. This was apparently the first unbeaten campaign in
history for a Center Point girls team. The team averaged 76 pts. per game and was ranked 8
th
in state
in girls polls, the first time a Center Point team ever made into the top 10. They lost the sectional final
to Monticello Sacred Heart who was ranked 7
th
in state.
Dale Mathis sits at the wheel of his trator which is ready
to pull a farm wagon carrying 10 children.

199
1970’s
May 10, 1971: The annual tea of the Senior Home Economics Class was again held at the home of Mrs.
Loren Jenks.
Oct. 14, 1971: Future Nurses of America had 16 girls present at their first meeting (9-12
th
). Dues were
set at an annual $1.00
April 1971: The first musical was presented. “The
Music Man” debuted under the direction of Steve
Brom, Tom Hoekstra and Lloyd McDole.
Sept. 72: The first boys home economics class was
offered to junior and senior boys. “It is obvious to
all of us that Mrs. Cook is doing an outstanding job
of teaching and everyone involved in this class is
enjoying the thrill of learning.” Items in the
curriculum inlcuded: basic clothing, cooking,
grooming, money management, marriage and
family, and a little home decoration and child care.
July 17, 1973: Steve Bryant pitched a no-hit, no-
run game Tuesday at LaPorte City as the local team
defeated State College High of Cedar Falls 4-0 to
with the sectional baseball tourney. The team next moves into first round district play against Keystone.
Sept. 1973: Girls added Industrial Arts to the list of courses they could take. Nineteen enrolled in the
first class which will cover drafting, woodworking, leather working, and automotives.
Sept. 1974: Individualized learning packets--“Pointer Paks”--will be used to provide more and diverse
programs in the high school. In 1970, 38 courses were offered. Packets will increase the number of
coures offered to 97. The cost of the project was $7, 610. Money for the project came from a reserve
set up from the salary of a teacher that left mid-year and the reduced need for text books.
Sept. 1977: Enrollment is 753 up 15 from last year (elementary 358, junior high 124, high school 263).
Oct. 1977: Homecoming daily themes include: Tuesday-Senior Favor Day (do a favor for a senior),
Wednesday-Pledge Day (make a pledge not to do something for rest of week), Thursday-50’s day,
Friday-Player’s Day. The bonfire and tug-o-war will be Friday at 2:30, followed by the parade at 5:30.
The game will begain at 6:00 p.m. with the queen being crowned at halftime. Saturday will be the
dance with alumni welcome.
Jan.22, 1978: Bob Meyer ended his basketball coaching career with a 245-73 record in 16 years of
coaching.
Feb. 1978: Boys basketball wins Tri-Rivers conference. Over the past three years they have earned a
50-6 record.
1971 School Board. Seated: Kenneth Wear, Robert
Swanson, Ed Freeman-President, Mary Holman-Secretary,
John Schweibert-Superintendent. Standing: Jim Sherman,
Vern Oliphant.

200
Paul Juhl hold a copy of his book,
“Iowa Stereographs”.
Junior mothers prepare the prom ban-
quet, May 1973.
The Munchkins as they appeared in the spring musical in 1989.
Prom was a dinner prepared by the junior mothers in the AP room for just members of the junior and
senior classes. Sophomore girls served the dinner and made their costumes to fit the theme. The
doormen greeted all coming to the dinner. The junior girls made refreshements for the dance. The
powder room was where everyone could visit and check their hair.
1980’s
March 1980: The student council sponsors the 2
nd
annual dance marathon March 15 from 5 p.m. to
midnight to raise money for the March of Dimes.
Nov. 1983: Booster Club puts out request for donations to light the track area. This would allow the
inside area to be used as a football field. The new press box is under construction at the lower field
(building trades class). This is the first request by club for financial donations since it was started in
1964.
1989: The spring musical, “Wizard of Oz”, included students from all grades as 32 3rd-8th graders
were selected to play the Munchkins.
1990’s
Fall 1996: After much
research, the high school
switches to block scheduling
instead of an 8-period day.
August 1998: Students begin
taking classes via the ICN
network. Classes offered were
French, German, and
Biotechnology.
1998: Center Point guidance counselor Paul Juhl was honored with a reception for his new book,
“Iowa Stereographs”.
Students learning via the ICN network.

201
School Strike — 1938
Students on strike hold a sit down protest. It sounds like something that might happen in New
York or Los Angeles during the 1960’s or 1970’s. Actually, it happened in Center Point in 1938.
Alfred Pierce was the high school principal. He was also a successful athletic coach, having
won 13 of 19 basketball games that year making it Center Point’s second best season in history. Pierce
won by a wide margin, a contest in the weekly paper for “the most popular
man—the man who had done the most for Center Point.” Pierce was also a
great recruiter for the Boy Scouts, always having large and very active troops.
Yet, for some reason, at a meeting on Thursday, April 7, 1938, the school
board voted 3 to 1 to oust Pierce, Miss Edna Robinson (commercial teacher)
and Miss Mary Francis Thomas (English and history).
Some say Pierce was released after he questioned how money from
the activity fund was being spent after being told there was no money for new
basketball uniforms. Others say it was due to criticism for bad sportsmanship.
The Linn County Schoolmasters’ association criticized Pierce for not only
failing to discourage unsportsmanlike conduct, but of actually encouraging
it. This poor conduct reportedly developed into physical combat between
teams in some cases. Sources said Palo and Toddville had threatened to
sever athletic relations with Center Point unless Pierce was removed.
The three teachers were re-elected on an honorary basis. This left
just two on the high school staff, Superintendent Finch I. Wagner and Miss Aarah Wilkinson, who was
named principal to succeed Pierce. On Friday, Superintendent Wagner notified the three removed
teachers of the school board decision and told them to find other jobs. According to news reports, the
days of the strike went something like this:
Monday, April 11
After learning of Pierce’s dismissal on Saturday, students organized the strike during Flunk Day
on Monday. (On Flunk Day everyone arrived at school for attendance and left shortly there after.) The
students wanted Pierce, who had been the coach for the past 4 years, to remain until the end of the year.
The baseball schedule was to begin within a week and with Pierce gone, there was no coach.
Students entered the building through a coal chute shortly after midnight and began preparing
for the next day.
Tuesday, April 12
As the staff reported to work that morning,
they found school doors barricaded with heavy
planks, chains, and block and tackle. The only
entrance was a second-floor door at the top of a
narrow fire escape. This guarded door allowed
students to enter, but denied admittance to all staff,
including grade teachers. Hanging from windows
were placards favoring the rehiring of Pierce.
The students declared they would hold the
school night and day until the board relented on its
Mr. Alfred Pierce
Placards demanding Pierce’s rehiring.

202
decision to not rehire Pierce. Ninety of ninety-eight students joined the sit down strike. Six girls and
two boys remained “conscientious objectors” but would not join the strike. They too wanted Pierce
retained but felt a sit down was “un-American.”
The students settled in, prepared to stay until their demands
were met. Some of the boys brought blankets and one
brought a cot. The girls left at 4 p.m. and would return the
next day. Parents called asking their children to come home,
but none of them actually went to the school to make the
strikers come home. From his home, Pierce advised the
students against the strike but was grateful for their loyalty.
With time to fill, the students looked for ways to
entertain themselves. Three school musicians held a “jam
session” with piano, saxophone and clarinet in a kindergarten
room where tables were shoved aside. Dancing couples
swung around the school room floor, wishing they could
get into the locked gymnasium, a recent addition to the old
school building.
One of the non-striking students wandered up to the
school late in the day, and a fight followed. Virgil Heins,
the non-striker, came out of the scuffle with a bloody nose.
Dietz Newland, one of the strikers, got a black eye.
Dr. C. E. Liabo, school board president, indicated they would wait for the “ruckus” to die down
and there would be no board meeting. “ They’ll [the students] all go home in due time, ashamed of
themselves.”
However, the school board did meet Tuesday evening. After conversing with the students via
phone, the board refused to back down.
Wednesday, April 13
Teachers did attempt to enter the building about 8:15 Wednesday morning but turned back
when they discovered the log chains were still securely fastened to all doors.At a mass meeting,
students decided to “sit tight” until the school board met their demands. As the day passed, students
had group singing, girls brought their knitting, some listened to phonographs or borrowed radios and
others played cards. No studying or impromptu classes were reported by the students since this was a
break from school.
Although they had no formal practice since the start of the sit down, members of the baseball
team kept in condition by playing catch in the school yard. After all, they had to be ready for their first
game in a week.
By now word of the strike was starting to spread. Pickets carrying placards had paraded through
town. Strikers were supported by the majority of local townspeople and school district residents. The
supporters furnished food and other necessities for the strikers. Ice cream was sent to the strikers by a
local firm. Radio station WMT broadcasted the situation and opinions of Mr. Pierce and members of
the strikers from the schoolhouse at 5:00 p.m.
As there were concerns about the safety of the building, a committee was formed to look after
the school’s property. They reported that the rooms occupied by the students were swept and dusted
twice a day. Dishes used from the home economics department were washed and dried after each meal
by the girl strikers. The school custodian was admitted to attend to the stoker at regular intervals.
“Jam session” helped pass the time.

203
That evening 35 students held the building while four were sent to talk to the school board. The
strikers insisted on the ouster of the two remaining teachers in the school, making a “clean slate” or
they felt all teachers should be retained. Superintendent F. I. Wagner and Aarah Wiltkinson, the only
remaining high school staff, resigned saying they could not continue their work under the circumstances.
Pierce was reelected on an honorary basis with the understanding that he would resign as soon as he
obtained employment elsewhere.
Thursday, April 14
As the strike entered the third day, neither the strikers nor school board showed any indication
of weakening. The strikers, unaware of the school board’s reasons for dismissing Pierce, asked for that
information in their second strike bulletin. The bulletin said in part: “We are perfectly willing to be
reasonable about this thing, but we feel that majorities should rule in America. Unless the school board
presents us with some reasonable explanation
for their action in firing Mr. Pierce, we intend to
continue to strike.”
The petition carrying the “clean slate”
proposal was gathering signatures rapidly
Thursday morning. Most townspeople seemed
in favor of ending the strike. Center Point
citizens with no direct interest in the strike were
concerned about mounting water and electric
bills. The pumping station reported that vast
amounts of water were being used at the
building, necessitating extra pumping. In
addition to lights in the building, four sides of
the building were lit by flood lights in case of
night “attack”, another concern to taxpayers.
Grade school teachers were perturbed at their
mounting board and room bills and the prospect
of spending more time in Center Point this
summer, making up missed days.
Some parents were also tiring of the strike. Ed Craig went to the school and took home his son,
David, to help shell corn. “If you’re not goin’ to school, you might as well work,” Mr. Craig advised his
son.
In the Thursday edition of the
Center Point Independent, an accounting of expenditures from
the activity fund was printed with the following lead: “(Note: The below school athletic report was in
this office and up in type before the school strike was called.) The Independent is indebted to
Superintendent F. I. Wagner for the following financial report of the Center Point School Athletic
Association.”
By 9 p.m. the “clean slate” petition had 87 signatures. The school board decided to accept the
resignation of Wagner and Miss Wilkinson. Pierce would leave at once with full pay to the semester’s
end, May 26. Robinson and Thomas had already been denied re-election along with Pierce so this
essentially cleared the slate. There would be no athletic program for the rest of the year. Also, since
this was considered a vacation, school would be extended one week. A meeting with the students was
planned for the next morning by the bell.
“Conscientious objectors” to the sitdown strike were: Freda
Steinberg, Maxine Maxson, Annadean Dennis, Kathleen
Brownwell, Mary Claire Smith, and Virginia Maxson.

204
Friday, April 15
Students were summoned to a mass meeting by the school bell in the morning with about 50
responding. They rejected a compromise proposal of the school board in an informal vote late Friday
morning. They declared that they would remain on strike unless Wagner and Pierce were accorded the
same treatment. This proposal was presented to the school board Friday afternoon.
That evening, as usual, 42 strikers
were on hand for the nightly vigil. Patrols
of 6 men each were prepared to guard against
sudden attack.
Saturday, April 16
“No further concessions” was the
only statement of the school board as the
Center Point students’ sit down strike
dragged into its fifth day.
Students called a 1 p.m. meeting of
parents to discuss their demands with 45
parents attending. They wanted Pierce
retained until the end of the present semester
or Superintendent Wagner to be ousted along
with Pierce. (In response to the board
proposal that Pierce leave now and other high
school faculty at the end of the year.) The students wanted Pierce retained so they could play their
baseball schedule. The parents decided to support the strikers.
Five parents, five strikers, and the school board members met to try once again to come to
consensus. The strike ended at 4 p.m. when the school board agreed to meet every demand of the
students. It was agreed Pierce and Wagner would be accorded the same treatment. Both would leave
the Center Point school at the same time. Either both would stay until end of the year or both would
leave at once, their salaries to be paid until the end of the term. The three remaining high school
teachers would not be back next year.
The decision was followed by the resignation of entire school board. The school board members
believed the situation showed they did not have the public confidence needed in order to function
properly. Dr. C. E. Liabo, board president, commented “This is not a comedy. It is a very serious
matter. It makes us wonder what America is coming to when a group of students can take over pubic
property and use strong-arm methods in protest against a decision of a public body.” The school board
members felt the students should have attempted to use a petition instead of starting with a sit down
strike. Students agreed and expressed regret that they hadn’t tried it.
Just when everything seemed back to normal, another wrinkle appeared. Students walked out
of the Monday morning assembly when Pierce failed to appear for classes. County Superintendent
Walter Shupp took charge at 9 a.m. and called Pierce from his home. Pierce said he had not returned
because the last official word he had was that he was not to return to the school.
Shupp, Pierce, two remaining board members (Ross T. Remer and Floyd Dufoe withdrew their
resignations) and the county officials then met to discuss the issue. After conferring with all parties
concerned, Shupp called the students into the assembly room and announced that Pierce and
Strikers gave a Gazette photographer an idea Tuesday why it was
impossible for teachers to enter the building. The fire escape, the
only unlocked entrance, was guarded with a fire hose.

205
Superintendent Wagner would be retained for the rest of the semester. Other terms were that the baseball
schedule would be played and that school would be extended one week. At 11 a.m., the students of
Center Point high school went back to their classes and the school strike officially came to a close.
School board members Dr. C. E. Liabo, I. T. Street and Dr. V. G. Bromwell submitted their
resignations to Seth Hendricks, secretary of the county board, who set an election for Saturday, April
30, to replace the 3 members. Dr. Liabo said, “When they approved the sit down strike, we were
through. I won’t stay in office when they use a public school to promote sit downs.
The effects of the strike were far from over. At this time, instead of the current athletic conference,
Center Point belonged to the Linn County Schoolmasters’ association. This group consisted of many
small schools including Ely, Toddville, Alburnett, Central City, Troy Mills, Lisbon, Mount Vernon,
Springville, Palo, Coggon, Walker and Viola, as well as Center Point.
The specific accusation against Center Point, according to Kenneth Wilson (president of
Schoolmasters’ Assoc.), involved what the other schools considered bad sportsmanship, which at times
actually developed into physical combat between the teams. As a result, the Schoolmasters’ association
took two steps to protest the action of students and patrons of Center Point High School.
1.Center Point athletic teams were barred from the schedules of the other twelve schools
in the association for a period of one year. The action was based on the general
attitude shown during the strike and the “undesirable relations” with Center Point
during the last year. They also petitioned the Iowa State High School Athletic
association to remove Center Point from the association for one year. This meant
Center Point could not schedule any member high school teams, which included
practically all schools.
2.Center Point students were prohibited from participating in the Linn County
Invitational Music Festival to be held in Cedar Rapids on May 8. The exclusion of
the Center Point musicians from the festival was considered a bitter blow as the
school in previous years had produced unusual talent and its band had been
outstanding.
Center Point High School was reinstated by the Iowa State High School Athletic association in
November 1938. The Linn County Schoolmasters worked out a plan to take Center Point back in at the
end of the first semester. However, since most game schedules were set, the local teams found themselves
playing either Catholic schools or those further away such as Lowden.
Don and Lila Carver recall how other towns would taunt the Center Point students at athletic
and music events in the late in 1940’s and early 1950’s. Don said after playing Atkins one ball game,
the opposing coach came and apologized for the jeers given to Center Point players. After all, he said,
they weren’t the ones responsible for the strike, and he was sorry for his team’s behavior. Eventually,
teams were able to put the strike behind them.

206
Sports
Baseball
Baseball started as a high school sport in
1911. This team played teams from Ida
Grove, Alice, Independence, Cedar Rapids,
Greens Grove, Marion, and Urbana. Their
toughest loss that season was a 17-inning
game against Greens Grove that ended with
a score of 7-5. Since there was not an
established field, the team called McArthur’s
pasture home. This area was located along
the Urbana road where a number of homes
were built in the 1960’s. Teams led by Coach
Everett Williams won Linn County
Championships in 1929-1930 and 1931.
Sometime during this era, games were
played along the highway (now Main Street)
in the pasture by Coffee Stables. (The stables
were turned into apartments in the 400 block
of Water Street..)
In 1942, Ray Knight’s 7-acre pasture
at the northwest edge of town was used as
the baseball park. The annual rental of $35 was paid jointly by the school and town of Center Point.
A young man by the name of Bob Bowers started coaching in 1945. In his first 8 years, the team
won 116 of 155 games (75%). This included 11 sectional wins, 3 district wins, and 2 trips to state.
Probably the top team of this period was during the school year of 1946 and 1947. The team that
year represented Center Point in the fall state tournament, losing a 3-1 extra inning game in the first
round to Everly. The team also appeared in the spring state tournaments, losing a 1 to 0 pitchers battle
to Monona in the semi-finals.Players on the team were: Richard Holman, Al Wall, Jr. Wall, Roy
Roseberry, Marvin Elgin, Clarence “Bus” Zieser, Roger Leslie, Bob Lala, and Kent Reynolds.
In June, 1947, work started on the fourth and present home of the Center Point baseball program.
This provided bleachers, dugouts, and a grass infield. In 1954, Bowers took a break from baseball,
returning in 1958. When he stepped down in 1961, he had coached four teams that appeared in the state
tournament. His teams also had the distinction of going undefeated by area teams for 10 consecutive
years.
The first Center Point-Urbana baseball appearance in the state tournament was in the spring of
1999. The team had a 34-6 season record which broke the school record for the most wins in a season.
They were conference champs and continued on the tournament trail. A 14-8 loss to Algona-Garriganin
the first-round at the state tournament brought the season to an end.
The 2000 team posted a 16-0 conference record, which gave Center Point-Urbana its 4th
conference championship. The team was ranked as high as fourth in the state that year.
Center Point teams won 3 conference championships between 1974 and 1988. Center Point-
Urbana teams have won 8 conference titles since 1989.
Pictured above is Center Point’s first high school baseball team in May
1911. The team had just defeated Ida Grove in a 14-inning game. Team
members were from left to right: Back row: Orval Ashlock, Rob Miller,
Don Newland, Lloyd Grubbs, Chris Stauffer, Front row: Stuart Mahuran,
Robert Pollock, Arthur Street, Ray Langsdale, Frank Williams.

207
Boys Basketball
In December of 1911, an
athletic association was formed to bring
high school basketball to town. The
association rented Yost hall for games
and appointed the Rev. G. E. Albright
to coach the team. Admission to games
was 25 cents for gentlemen and 15 cents
for ladies. News articles mention four
games played that season. By 1916 the
team had 8 games with 6 being played
at home. The school had gone to some
expense in fixing up Yost hall for the
“fast games to come.”
A September 27, 1917, article
in the Center Point Independent stated
facts relating to the need for, and
savings in, building a gymnasium at the school. The article also discussed proposed financing and
First C. P. H. S. basketball team playing in Yost Hall. (L-R) LLoyd Grubbs,
Stuart Mahuran, Roy McNeal, Rev. Albright (E. U. B. Minister) coach,
Bob Pollock, and Harold Johnson.
The 1946-47 Baseball Team. 1st Row (l-r): Roy Roseberry, Clarence “Bus” Zieser, Dick Holman, Bob Lala, Ed
Wall, Jr. 2nd Row: Marvin Elgin, Roger Leslie, Al Wall, Kent Reynolds. 3rd Row: Don Boyer, Bob Kirk,
Coach Bowers, Gerald Wall, Gale Wheeler. Absent: Don Smith.

208
asked for subscriptions from individuals in the community. At that time, they already had $260.10 of
the $650 to $700 needed for the building project. With the help of students and parents, the wood
structure went up and new suits were ordered for the players. Practice started in one end of the gym as
soon as a temporary floor could be laid. A December 22 game against La Porte was the first scheduled
to be played in the new gymnasium. Admission was 25 cents for adults and 15 cents for children. Fans
also had the option of buying season tickets for a series of 6 games at $1.00 per adult and 75 cents per
child.
In 1932, the team had a 14 game winning streak. They failed to win the county tournament due
to illness.
The first Linn County Championship for boys was won in 1939 and the team was coached by O.
H. Lammers. Between 1940 and 1954, the title of Linn County Champions was won three times: the
1941 team coached by Lammers and the 1946 and 1947 teams coached by Robert Bowers. The 1947
team won sectionals and districts, but were defeated at sub-state. Their season ended with a 23-2
record. Teams playing between 1930 and 1954 also won five sectional championships and one district
title.
The 1966 team won its 1
st
ALL-AC Conference title and had its first perfect record in school
history (17-0 regular season). The next year was the beginning of Tri-Rivers Conference play. By 1969
the team had won their first conference championship with a record of 11-3.
The 1970’s found the Pointers as the top of the conference charts five times. The 1972-73 team
also set two school records: most points for a game, 124, and most points per quarter, 44.
Twenty-one years after the last championship, the 1996-97 Center Point-Urbana team won
conference and was ranked as high as 5th in the state in Class 2A. They qualified for state by beating
Camanche in the sub-state final 77-61. However, the team coached by Brent Winterhof lost in first
round play to the North Polk Comets 66-61. The team ended the season with only four losses and were
outscored by a total of 10 points. The team would win or tie as conference champions the following
four seasons as well.
Girls Basketball
In the fall of 1915, a high school girls team
was formed. These modest girls wore stylish
bloomers as part of their uniform.
In March 1933, the Center Point girls won the
county tournament and repeated that honor in 1937.
From 1944-49 and 1952-53, Superintendent
H. P. Main coached the girls team. During that time
they played 125 games and won 96 (77%). This total
also includes 30 tournament games.
In 1951 the girls won the county tournament.
The 1952-’3 team won first place in conference, first
at sectionals and consolation in the county
tournament.
The 1962-63 team won the ALL-AC
Conference championship. They also won the first sectional championship since 1952 with a 19-3
season record. The 1969-70 Pointers won the first Tri-Rivers Conference title. This would become a
habit in the next few years.
C. P. H. S. 1915 Basketball Team (L-R): Marian
Mahuran, Marguarite Grover, Gladys Kirk, Marie
Sarchett, Marie Kubias and Grace Mason.

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The early1970’s were winning years for the basketball program. The girls won or tied for
conference champions five out of six seasons beginning with the 1970-71 season. Another milestone
in the ‘70’s was a changing of coaches. In the fall of 1973, Ken Dinger replaced Max Anderson as head
coach. This was the first change in the head coaching position in 18 years.
The 1970-71 team proved to have the most memorable season of the decade. After winning the
district finals over Benton Community with a score of 51-39, the girls found themselves as part of the
“Sweet 16”. According to the Cedar Rapids Gazette (3/4/71) “Center Point which won the Tri-Rivers
conference title and dominated the league with 40 straight wins over the past four years has averaged
77 points a game and scored at a 56% clip from the field.” The Center Point team played ElkHorn-
Kimbalton in Des Moines and lost 93-71.
The 1980’s were tough years for the team, but they started to come back in the 1990’s. The
1991-92 season was the first winning season since 1980. The 1992-93 team tied for first in the conference
in addtion to being sectional and district champions. This team also was the first Center Point-Urbana
team to make an appearance in Class 1A six-player tournament game. Unranked CPU played 14
th
ranked Emmetsburg and lost 74-51, ending with a 21-2 record. The 1993-94 season was a transition
year. The state had finally moved from the 6-player format to the 5-player format. In spite of the
change, the girls managed to win conference again as well as maintain a 3rd place ranking in Class 2A
for the entire season.
It was the 1994-95 season that will long be remembered. The CPU girls showed they could
adjust to the 5-player format easily. They posted a perfect season winning the Class 2A state
championship with a 62-44 win over Sibley-Ocheyedan.
The 1970-71 State Qualifiers. Standing (L-R): Ass’t Coach Keith Byers, Teri Anderson, Julie Hannen, Rhonda
Owens, Daphne Craig, Donna Hough, Peg Carver, Kathy Stauffer, Debbie Roseberry, and Head Coach Max Ander-
son. Kneeling: Susan Kouba, Doretta Lewis, Susie Kudrna, Karol Kudrna, Karen Kirk, and Becky Ashlock.

210
Football
Given this community’s love of
football, it may come as a surprise that
the program was started and dropped
twice before becoming a permanent
sports offering. The first attempt at
starting a football program was in the
fall of 1921. There was enough
interest to field a team the following
year as well. This team had 5 loses
and one win with a record as follows:
Vinton 37, Center Point 6; Monticello
46, Center Point 0; Walker 13, Center
Point 7; Marion 6, Center Point 0;
Brandon 6, Center Point 7; and
Central City 96, Center Point 0.
These early teams played in
McArthur’s pasture.
The teams seem difficult to trace,
but here is what is known. There was
a team in 1925. School board minutes
show a motion in September to
purchase football jerseys, sox, 1
football & 1 extra bladder. A bill was paid at the October meeting from Armstrongs Clothing Company
totaling $7.00 for football clothes.
A clipping from a local newspaper in October 1929 states that it has been decided to organize a
football team with 25 students showing interest. The school board decided no student shall play without
written permission of parents and each one must pass a physical examination. The board agreed to
furnish team equipment for an amount not to exceed $300.00. Everette G. Williams would be the
coach.
According to a 1964 news article, the last game of this era was played in 1930. It is believed
this team only won one game that season. Members of the 1930 team included Dale Matheny, E. Haars,
Shady Gately, Bill Gilchrist, Howard Dufoe, Floyd Hand, Max Knight, James McCarthur, and Leslie
Rabik. The shortage of manpower and the fact that few of the surrounding towns had teams necessitated
long trips and scheduling larger schools. The school board decided it was unwise to continue the sport.
In 1964, football was back and this time it would stay. Games would be held on the outfield of
the baseball diamond at 1:30 on Saturday afternoons as there were no lights for night games. Practices
were held on a field west of the school belonging to Mr. Sacora. The booster club hoped to have lights
in before the next season. This team of 38 ended with a 2-3 season record.
Center Point won its first Tri-Rivers conference title in 1971. The 1974 team finished with a 6-
1 record, the best finish in Center Point history. In 1975 this team set 9 of 13 conference records and
ended with an 8-0 record. Between 1976 and 1999 they won 12 more conference championships. A
November 1976 news article credits Ted Rogers with turning the football program around in his first
four years. Even though they were the smallest team in the Tri-Rivers Conference, they had an overall
record of 26 wins and 9 losses in those four seasons. The 1981 team finished as conference champs
with a 9-0 record, outscoring their opponents that year 296-67.
1922 Football Team. Front, left to right: George Kirk, Harold Mahuran,
Harley Wright. Second row: Forrest Heddinger, Bernard McDonald,
Harry Brookman, Hartley Miller, Roy Syers. Third row: Hubert Thomp-
son, Paul Johnson, Wilbur Mason, Wayne Williamson, Forrest Hoglan,
Coach A. B. Jones.

211
The 1984 team had a season that seemed to be “perfect” until the last game. They won a muddy,
rainy game against Tripoli where the conditions made vision almost impossible. They made it to the
dome and the Class 1A-State Championships, only to come up short 15-6 against Pocahontas. However,
this team had plenty to brag about. They were the fifth team to qualify for state play, but the first team
to ever play past the opening round at state. In the past 12 seasons, the Pointers had a 97-19 record.
Then it happened, the season they had wanted for so long. The 1985 Pointers were the state’s
top-ranked Class 1A team all season long and ended up outscoring their opponents 448-69 that season.
They capped their 12-0 season record by winning the Class 1A-State Championship. The crowd went
wild, their cheers echoing in the UNI Dome when the Pointers beat Maurice-Orange City 28-14.
Since 1973, Center Point/Center Point-Urbana teams have made 14 state appearances and have
had 7 undefeated seasons. They have won 10 conference championships, the most won by any team, as
well as 3 district titles.
Golf
Golf has been another sport that was added and dropped more than once. The first boys golf
team played in the spring of 1967 and had 15 members. In 1976, a number of boys wanted to have a
team, but the district decided not to fund the program. However,
the boys were given permission to put a team together for the
conference meet. They did so and ended up winning conference
by 24 strokes and played in sectionals as well.
Both boys and girls were playing by 1985 and have
continued strong with the exception of 1991 when there were
not enough girls out to field a team. In 1997 the boys won
conference, sectionals, districts and made their first team
appearance at state, ending with a third-place finish. They
returned in 1998 to win the Class 2A championship. Ian Brendel
was state runnerup medalist. He tied for first but lost by one
stroke in a playoff. They qualified again in 1999 but did not
finish as well as they had hoped. In 2002, Megan Cress became
the first girl from Center Point-Urbana to qualify for the state
meet.
The boys have won 3 conference titles as Center Point
and 5 as Center Point-Urbana. Combined they have had 7
conference gold medalists. The Center Point -Urbana girls have
won 3 conference titles and have and 1 individual medalist.
Cross Country
An October of 1929, news article reported that 15 high school athletes reported for cross county
practice. Mention of the sport then seems to disappear until it became a permanent part of the sports
program in the fall of 1974. In the fall of 1975, the “team” had only one member, Larry Ritze. Larry
represented the school well by placing 7th at the state that year. Around the fall of 1980, the girls started
running as well. In 1988 and 1989 the girls qualified for state. Kelly Barnhart placed 9th at state in
1988.
Matt Cress and Ian Brendel present Mr.
Whitehead with the 2A Golf State Cham-
pionship trophy.

212
Wrestling
The wrestling program started in the 1983-84 school year
through an “athlete exchange” program. Center Point opened their
track program to Urbana athletes and Urbana included the Center
Point students in wrestling. The first independent Center Point wres-
tling team started in the 1986-87 year when the locker rooms in the
1957 addition were remodeled to provide a wrestling room. In 1987-
88, Brett Mehmen took 6th place at the state tournament, becoming
the first wrestler to place.
The team won their first conference title in 1996 and followed
with a second conference title the next year. As the program contin-
ued to grow, they outgrew the wrestling room and needed more space
to practice. The AP room became their new home, which meant
rolling up the mats every night so lunch could be served in the room
the next day. In 2003, the Booster Club assisted the program by
funding the addition of a weight room and wrestling room.
Individally, Center Point/Center Point-Urbana has had13 first-place conference wins, 8 sec-
tional firsts, 3 district firsts and nine state qualifiers. The most recent state qualifer was freshman
Landon Tweeton who placed 6th in state in the 2003-2004 season.
Track
Boys track had its first full schedule for in the spring of
1966. In 1967 they placed fourth at the district track meet. They
won the first invitational championship in school history in 1974
and had their first district championship in 1976, also a school first.
They had the largest team in the conference in 1978 with 50 boys
out for the sport. In 1980 they won the district meet and had 13
members qualify for state. In 1984 the program was shared with
Urbana and the team took fourth place at the state meet. Center
Point track teams have won 2 conference meets and Center Point-
Urbana teams have won two with the most recent being the 2004
conference meet.
A girls track program was begun in 1971. The 1981 team
placed second at the conference meet, first at districts, and fifth at
state. They won the conference meet in 1984 when Urbana students
were added to the program.
The 1977 teams were the first to use the new track and field
facility. The all-weather track was completed in 1999.
.
Softball
The girls in Center Point have been playing softball since at least the 1950’s. There was a
spring and fall season until the mid-1980’s when volleyball replaced softball. Since 1970, they have
won or tied for conference honors twice as Center Point (1978-79 & 1979-80) and once as Center
Point-Urbana (1994-95). They have qualified for the state tournament at least 3 times: 1971, 1982, and
Brett Mehmen, 1987-88
Jenny Buelow, CPU’s most recent state
track champon won the 100 M. Dash in
Class 2A at the State Track meet in 2004

213
a third time as Center Point -Urbana in 1994. Although they finished second in conference, the 1994
team managed to place 5th in state with a 35-10 record.
Volleyball
Volleyball, a relatively new sport, was added to the athletic program in the fall of 1986. This
popular sport replaced fall softball and has been relatively successful. In 17 years, Center Point/Center
Point Urbana teams have won eight conference championships. They have won numerous sectional
and district titles, competed in regionals three times. In the fall of 1998, they made their initial state
appearance. They lost in the semifinals to first-ranked Western Christian.
Conferences--Who Did We Play?
In the early years, Center Point belonged to the Linn County Schoolmasters’ Association. This
group consisted of many small schools including Ely, Toddville, Alburnett, Central City, Troy Mills,
Lisbon, Mount Vernon, Springville, Palo, Coggon, Walker, Viola as well as Center Point.
In the late 1950’s, Center Point joined the All-American Conference (ALLAC). This conference
included Center Point, Central City, Walker, Coggon, Troy Mills, Springville and Linn Mar. Sports
included in conference competition were girls and boys basketball, baseball and softball. When Center
Point started football again in 1964, many of these teams did not have football programs. A separate
1998 State Qualifiers (L-R) Front: Danielle Wilson, Amber Narveson, Michelle Kearney, Marcie Smith. Middle:
Melissa Margretz, Kim Kester, Stephanie Smith, Kristin Engelken, Janet Harris, Jennifer Schulte, Jamie Stark, Jill
Kramer. Back: Coach Lisa Doser, Ashley Ockenfels. (Photo printed with permission from Sloan Photography)

214
league called the Pinicon Conference was formed just for the sport. In addition to Center Point, it
included Central City, Coggon (the only school that had football in 1963), Lincoln of Stanwood and
Mechanicsville, Linn-Mar, Midland of Wyoming, and Olin.
These conferences disbanded in 1967 as the new Tri-Rivers Conference was formed. By 1972
the conference included North Linn, Springville, Maquoketa Valley, East Buchanan, Ed-Co, Alburnett,
Central City and Center Point. Starmont joined the conference by 1974. In 1987 Jesup was added to
the conference and dropped in 1998.
In 2003, the conference increased to 12 teams with the addition of Anamosa, Cascade, and
Monticello. The conference was then divided into the River Division (Anamosa, Cascade, Center
Point-Urbana, Maquoketa Valley, Monticello, and Starmont) and the Valley Division (Alburnett, Central
City, East Buchanan, Edgewood-Colesburg, North Linn, and Springville)
Booster Club
The Center Point Booster Club was formed October 30, 1963, although it is unclear if this was
a new organization to the district or one that had not been active for a period of time. In January 1964,
the school board took final action to inaugurate a football and track program for the coming school
year. In attendance at the meeting were members of the Executive Committee of the All-Sports Booster
Club who pledged their financial support of the program for the next three years. In this three year
period, they hoped to establish a complete athletic facility including game and practice football fields,
lights, and a quarter mile track.
The Booster Club has continued to support our athletes with many endeavors. They spearheaded
a fund drive to purchase new lights for the track area. This also allowed the football field to be moved
to the center of the track for the 1984 season. Their next big project was the all-weather track which
was completed in 1999. In 2003, their fund raising added a weight room and wrestling room which was
attached to the AP room.

215
State Champions
1985 Class 1A State Champions
Row 1: (L-R) Brett Mehmen, Jason Sholes, Shawn Schuman, Todd Railsback. Row 2: Sarah Thomas, Chad Diveley, Mark
Hackert, Clint Franck, Tom Bach, Alan Schnoebelen, Ray Barlow, DeWitt Jones. Row 3: Coach Ted Rogers, Asst. Coach
Bob Dillon, Chris Lamphier, Todd Davis, Curt Klein, Pat Marlow, Tom Weyant, Asst. Coach Scott Slifka, Asst. Coach Mark
Armstrong. Row 4: Kenny Jones, Lee Timm, Ron Chapman, John Hines, Jon Smith, John Bissell, Blake Sackett, Rod
Ackerman, Row 5: Jim Mann, Steve Kramer, Corey Ferguson, Brad Wade, Philip Hall, Kevin McGrew, Chris Wall, Vince
Bower, Mark Wade. Row 6: Scott Westerholm, Rick O’Brien, Tim Stovie, Tim Payne, Rick Buelow, Bob Mullins, Jim
Greiner, Mark Durow. Row 7: Scott Hendryx, Kevin Howk, Doug Cook, Greg Neilsen, John Argo, Bill Mehmen, Brian
Moore.
1998 Class 2A State Champions
L-R: Coach Bob Meyer, Matt
Behning, Luke Slaymaker, Ian
Brendal, Matt Cress, Eric Cress, and
Brian Ashlock

216
1994-95 2A State Champions
Kneeling (L-R): Angie Krumm, Suni Dietrich, L Holub, L Holub, Erica Estling, Alicia Fishell. Standing:
Ass’t Coach Lisa Doser, Crystal Hulbert, Kate Hanneman, Jamie Fishell, Jennifer Sieck, Erick Kessens, Ali-
cia Kramer, Andrea Seltrecht, and Coach Randy Chamberlin. (Photo courtesy of Sloan Photography.)
1988 2A State Jazz Band Champions
Front l-r: Shawn Leege, Kim Williams, Jon Parke, Kathy Hall, Darren Sholes, Christi Dufoe. 2nd Row: Director Paul
Clark, Joel Leege, Scott Piper, Joe Eldred, Dewitt Jones, Joel Dinger, Amy Sundermeyer. Back: Pat Marlow, Mark
George, Stephanie Ramsey, Mike Mann, Mark Butschi.

217
Memorable Faces
Every school has individuals that stand out in the minds of former students. Whether teacher or
student, the names are heard at reunions as alumni recall special moments they shared in the classroom.
Robert Howard “Coach” Bowers
“Give it your best shot 100% of the time,” was the teaching
philosophy of Mr. Bowers, fondly called “Coach” by many who knew
him. A Strawberry Point native, Bob had graduated from Upper Iowa
University in 1943 and taught two years at Waterville, Iowa, before
coming to Center Point in the fall of 1945.
In addition to teaching a rigorous science program, Bob invested
many hours in the basketball and baseball programs. He coached
basketball from 1946 to 1954 and had two of these teams advance as
far as the sub-state level in state tournament action. However, it was
baseball that Bob truly loved.
One of the people Bob most admired was his baseball coach at
Upper Iowa University. He tried to take what he had learned and apply
it to the program in Center Point. Bob’s coaching philosophy had
three parts: 1) Baseball should be treated as the true scientific sport it
is. 2) Spend hours working on defense, not offense. 3) Play the best teams, on the best fields, with the
best umpiring. Bob was quoted as saying, “Baseball is a game of enjoyment, but you can only fully
enjoy it if you win and are successful.”
This philosophy worked for the 14 years he coached baseball (1946-54 and 1958-61). Bob’s 13
seasons at Center Point put teams in 47 tournaments. His teams won over 200 games and were never
shut out in a single year. Theses successful seasons
included two trips to the state finals, two sub-state
appearances and 17 district appearances. This record
earned him a place in the Iowa Baseball Hall of Fame
in March of 1975.
On September 12, 1971, an open house was held
in his honor at the school gym. At that point “Coach”
was entering his 27
th
year of teaching in Center Point.
The night before, he and his wife Arleen, known as
“Sunshine” to Bob and friends, were entertained at a
surprise dinner by the classes of 1946, ’47,’ and ’48.
Bob was also a recipient of the Alumni Achievement
Award from the Upper Iowa College Alumni
Association that same year.
“Coach” Bowers retired from education in 1983
after teaching 37 years. In his honor, a second “Bob
Bower’s Day” was held on July 23, 1983. A potluck
dinner at the Center Point athletic field started the day’s
festivities which drew between 500 and 600 people. It was followed by a 3:30 “Old Timers” game
where many of Bob’s former players showed they still loved the sport. On this day, the athletic complex
Bowers in his classroom, 1948.
Robert Bowers

218
was officially named the “Bob Bowers Sports Complex” and donations were accepted to the Bob and
Arlene Bowers Living Scholarship Fund. Today it still provides scholarships for our science students.
A student writing for the school paper made this observation “With Mr. Bowers leaving, much
that he taught us will remain: The pride that we all feel in Center Point, never accepting second best
and the first class treatment we give and receive. Also the desire to win and the loyalty to our school
that only people with “Pointer Pride” can behold.”
Bob continued to attend sporting events. Whether it was sunny, cloudy, warm, or cold, he could
be seen atop the windswept old press box with a 16mm camera at every football game. He dependably
filmed over 300 games and Received the Distinguished Service Award of Iowa Football Coaches
Association for 1987. Bob Bowers died on November 23, 1987 at the age of 66. His funeral was held
on the following Friday at 1:30 in the high school gym. The stands were full once again as “Coach”
made his final appearance.
Mary Eleanor Hoglan Cook
Mary Cook, the daughter of
Herman and Inez Hoglan, was a
Center Point girl from the word go.
After eighth grade graduation from
Green’s Grove #9, she started high
school in Center Point, a 3-mile ride
on her horse. She was valedictorian
of the Class of 1936. From there she
entered the University of Iowa where
she majored in home economics with
three minors in social studies,
English and science, graduating in
1940.
Mary taught home economics
and English in Hartwick and Atkins
before returning to her beloved
Center Point. In March 1953, she
was asked to finish the year for an
elementary teacher who had become
ill. In September 1953, an opening developed in the home economics department and she was hired. In
addition to home economics, she taught in the English department, served as school librarian and
cheerleader sponsor, coached plays, and planned Flag Day ceremonies. As junior class sponsor, she
was in charge of magazine sales and the prom banquet and dance.
In an interview for the school paper announcing her retirement in 1984, she said there is nothing
she would have rather done for a life’s work than to teach school. Being around students gave her a zest
for living.
When asked about her philosophy of teaching, Mary once replied “I have tried to prepare
my students for life beyond the classroom. I hope that my students have learned to be responsible
citizens in the society in which they live, will be active in community affairs, and will assume positions
of leadership.” These words were exemplified in the way Mary lived her life.
When not at school, Mary was busy with activities at First Christian Church, Center
Point Garden Club, Center Point Community Historical Society, Gold Star Mother, Chaplain, and
The 1957-58 High School Staff. Front (left to right): Mr. Anderson, Mrs.
Cook, Mrs. Kelleher, Mrs. Becker. Back: Mr. Gaimari, Mr. Hollander,
Mr. Rinderknecht, Mr. Bowers.

219
Americanism Chairwoman for the Center Point
American Legion Auxiliary. She was a director
for Center Point Bank & Trust, president and board member for the Center Point Public Library. These
activities, visiting relatives, her garden, and watching her beloved Hawkeyes filled Mary’s days until
her death in April of 2002. A memorial service was held in her honor at the high school gymnasium
with approximately 500 in attendance, a fitting tribute to one who had touched so many lives.
Lula Belle McGinnis
A career as a teacher came easy for Miss Lula Belle McGinnis. Her parents were teachers and
her three sisters, Davidine, Viola, and Lena (McNeil) all held school positions. The family lived on a
farm south of Jesup and Lula Belle
remembers riding to school in a horse-
drawn bus. She graduated from Jesup
High in 1917, then attended Iowa State
Teachers College at Cedar Falls where she
studied organ in addition to education. She
also studied at Coe College.
Upon graduating she taught in rural
schools in Black Hawk county for three
years, then second grade at Maynard for a
year. She then came to Center Point where
she taught for 38 years, mostly in first
grade. In a 1928 interview, Miss McGinnis
revealed she liked teaching because of its
variety. “No two children are alike, and
each bring with his work interesting phases of his thinking.”
Shelly Hendryx admires the plaque presented to
Mrs. Cook as a farewell gift.
Mary Cook and Ruth Butterfield strike a “big shot” pose
for the camera. They were chaperones for the junior class
picnic at Palisades-Kepler park on May 16, 1956.
Miss McGinnis (back row, left) pauses from teaching for a photograph
with the 1923-24 Center Point staff.

220
In her time at Center Point, she saw the staff grow from 8
to 29 teachers. Four additions were made to the building and
she worked under at least 12 superintendents. She took her
work very seriously and was proud to share that she had only
left school once in her career with incomplete plans for the
next day, in 1929 when an aunt was ill and staying at her house.
Although she “never intended to make this a marathon”,
she did touch many lives during her career. Over 500 attended
the retirement reception held for Lula Belle on May 27, 1962.
Included among those attending were six pupils and five
teachers from her first year of teaching. In addition to her long
teaching career, she is also remembered for the 67 years she
served as church organist. Miss Lula Belle McGinnis passed
away January 29, 1982.
Robert Meyer
Bob Meyer graduated from Clarence High School in 1958
then completed his BA at Upper Iowa University in 1962. In the fall of
1962, he began what would be a 40 year career at Center Point. Bob
began teaching geography and elementary physical education. After
completing a masters program at Kirksville (now Truman State) in 1971,
he took on the role of guidance counselor from the fall of 1973 to the
spring of 1980. He then returned to teaching geography and elementary
p.e. until 1990 when he became the high school physical education
instructor. He held this role until his retirement in 2002.
Bob also coached many sports at many levels over the
years. He was the boys varsity basketball coach from 1962 to 1978 with
a 245-74 record. Baseball also benefited f rom his efforts from 1962 to
1969. He then took some time off to complete his master’s degree, but
resumed coaching in1977 and continued until 1993 for a total of 25 years.
Bob also coached a number of junior high teams over the years. He
coached both boys and girls golf until enough students were out to require another coach. He then
continued with the boys program which won a state championship in 1998.
Allen “Buzz” Hand
Allen “Buzz” Hand was handicapped by cerebral palsy from birth. Buzz was born in 1946 and
attended Center Point School from kindergarten thru 12
th
grade. He never walked at all until he was
six. At that time began getting around with the use of braces which he discarded by eighth grade. He
attended the Iowa Hospital School for Severely Handicapped Children in Iowa City for seven summers,
starting when he was six. Superintendent Clyde Newell said everyone helped Buzz when he needed it.
Mr. Newell said he happened to glance out his window one day as Buzz was getting off the school bus.
Buzz fell in a heap. Mr. Newell debated whether to go out and help him, but before he knew it, two
girls picked him up by the arms, set him on his feet and he was on his way again. That just about told
the story of how Buzz was able to attend 13 years of school at CPHS.
Bob Meyer, Fall 1967.
Miss Lula Belle McGinnis speaks at her
retirement reception.

221
Even though everything Buzz did
required maximum effort, no one
babied him. He never wanted anyone’s
pity, but he accepted both the sympathy
and respect of his many friends with a
smile that shouted a thousand “thank
yous.” Classmate Jack Cress recalls
how they would help Buzz hurry thru
the halls between classes. Jack and a
buddy would grab his arms and drag
him thru the halls when a teacher
wasn’t looking. When a teacher would
see them and holler at them, Buzz
thought it was ‘cool’ to get in trouble.
Others would get his lunch for him and
even the janitor repaired his braces.
Biology instructor Bob Bowers probably was closer to Buzz
than any other teacher. He would carry Buzz on his shoulders. Mr. Bowers stated that Buzz carried him
in many ways and was an inspiration to him. On a biology field trip in which Buzz participated,
students were to catch frogs for dissection. One of the other boys caught a frog for Buzz, but Buzz
dropped the frog. When it was reported to Mr. Bowers, the teacher told Buzz, “You dropped it yourself,
you’ll have to get it back yourself.” Buzz
got it back himself.
Buzz graduated in 1965. He learned to
drive a car and worked at Evergreen
Packaging Equipment for 30 years. He and
his wife, Pam, organized the Buzz Hand
Golf Tournament which assisted others thru
Waypoint Services. Buzz was a 1996
Olympic Torch Bearer and past president
and supporter of Cerebral Palsy Clinic.
Buzz passed away from injuries from a car
accident January 12, 2004. Buzz once
stated, “If I can help one person attain the
independence I have, then my goal has been
met.” Most would agree that Buzz
surpassed that goal and made this world a
better place giving others much inspiration.
Wilma Andrews
Wilma Andrews started teaching at the age of 18 in the days of the one-room school and for $20
per month. After seven years in various rural schools in the Washington township, she accepted at
position at Palo where she spent the next 12 years. The move to Palo gave her the opportunity to focus
on just two grades (3
rd
& 4
th
) instead of having students for kindergarten to eighth grade in the same
Allen Hand, Class of 1965
Buzz with the Olympic Torch,
Bench given in memory of Allen “Buzz” Hand.
May 2004

222
room. In the fall of 1948, she came to Center Point where she was
responsible for just second grade, a position she held for 26 years
until she retired in 1974.
Her views on education can best be summarized by a quote
printed at the time of her retirement. “I’ve enoyed teaching. It has
had its compensation and enjoyments. The children express their
love to you when you have been a part of their lives. You don’t
take it as glory, but you are pleased that you meant something
important to them.”
Mary Louise Johnson
Miss Johnson graduated from the Center Point
High School in 1919. She then attended Iowa State
Teachers College (now UNI), Coe College, and a
summer session at a South Dakota school. She retired
in 1968 after teaching in Linn County for 47 years.
The last 16 of those years were spent teaching
kindergarten at Center Point.
Ida Grubbs
Ida Grubbs was born in Benton County and graduated
from Urbana High School. She continued her schooling at
Iowa Teachers College (UNI), Coe College, and Upper Iowa
University. Ida started in the country schools and taught at
West #3 for 10 years. During recess she taught her students
knitting and how to play the ukelele. At West, she attempted
to teach music theory with a piano and record player. She
also taught her students art on Friday afternoons.
In 1953, as the schools consolidated, she taught 2nd
and 5th grade for one year, then taught only 5th. In a 1953
interview, she modestly said she had done nothing
outstanding and left the “claim to fame” to her daughter,
Jetta, and her brother, Bing Miller. (Bing Miller was a well-
known coach for the Philadelphia Athletics.) She retired
after teaching 20 years at Center Point in May 1972.
Wilma Andrews, Lula Belle McGinnis and Bob Bowers
congratulate Miss Johnson on her retirement.
Ida Grubbs and her daughter, Jetta, are shown
in her rural school house. Notice the paper-
mache animals, a product of Friday afternoon
art classes.
Miss Andrews and students plant a lilac
bush on the school grounds in her
honor. The bush was presented by the
Center Point Education Association.

223
Lloyd McDole
Lloyd McDole, English, speech and drama teacher, was born in
1930 at Indianola, Iowa. He graduated from High School at New
Virginia, Iowa, in 1948 and joined the Army that September. While
finishing his freshman year at Drake University, he received orders in
September, 1950, to report for active duty for refresher infantry training
at Ft. Hood, Texas.
After eleven months in service, he was rotated to the states with
several thousand other Army Reservists who had been involuntarily
recalled to active duty during the national emergency declared by
President Harry S. Truman. He re-enrolled at Drake University and
received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in political science while also being
commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force Reserves in
June of 1954. He served as the Radar Operator in an F89 Fighter-
Interceptor aircraft assigned to the 59
th
Fighter Squadron of the
Northeast Air Command (NEAC) whose mission was the last line of
defense protecting the continental USA. He used radar to locate and
guide rocket firing at an enemy air craft.
During the fall and winter of 1956-57, he maintained skill and proficiency in his duty assignment
by taking part in training sorties over northeast Canada and the North Atlantic off the Labrador Coast.
In a regular duty rotation system, he and his pilot were placed on 24 hour periods of alert from time to
time. After leaving active duty, he was transferred to the Air Force Ready Reserves.
In September of 1957, McDole re-enrolled at Drake University College of Education where he
completed work on a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education and gained certification as an Iowa
Teacher of English, speech, and drama in the spring of 1959.
He taught in English classes in schools at Eldora, West Des Moines, Urbana and Center Point,
all in Iowa. He retired in 1990 shortly after Urbana and Center Point schools were consolidated. He
had taught for two years at Urbana before coming to Center Point in 1968.
In extra curricular work, he re-activated Troupe 415 of the International Thespian Society and
directed and produced a series of all-school drama and musical productions on the teeny-tiny stage just
off the old gym floor. To produce all-school musicals with much larger casts, he secured a portable
stage and designed lighting and sound systems to accommodate them.
He also applied for membership in the Iowa High School Speech Association and coached and
directed individual and group activities in competitive speech and drama activities. Many of his
performers regularly advanced to state and all-state contests.
As school paper advisor-sponsor, he arranged with the owner of the Central City Newsletter
(now Linn Newsletter) to provide a weekly page of all-school news and photos for publication. Today
at least three neighboring schools also publish their school news in the Linn Newsletter. Using a
Polaroid instant camera, the newspaper staff was able to get by without a dark room.
He was the first president of the Center Point Education Association (CPEA). He had actively
supported the passage of the Iowa Public Employees Collective Bargaining Law and petitioned the
Iowa Public Employees Bargaining Board to conduct an election to determine whether the Center Point
Schools would have a bargaining unit. The election was successful and Center Point educators were
among the first schools to achieve bargaining status and negotiate their first contract when the Public
Employees Bargaining Law went into effect in the late 1970’s.
Lloyd McDole, 1989.

224
He had married Brenda Jean Lord in the fall of 1964 and has two children, Lynne and Martin,
who also live in Marion, Iowa. McDole retired from teaching in 1990.
Wayne Weyth
Wayne Weyth began as a janitor in 1957.
In 1970 he took on job of head custodian at Center
Point Consolidated School which he held until
September 1975 when he retired.
According to an article written at the time
of his retirement, one of Wayne’s most memorable
experiences was when Mrs. Kramer called him to
report that there were pidgeons in a classroom and
he was supposed to get them out. The things he
thought he would miss were the 8:21 bell, the
students roaming the halls, and the people he had
worked with.
When asked what he liked best about his
job, he said preparing the football field and
watching the older students grow up and have their children come to school here.
After retiring from school, he purchased the Point Lounge in Center Point.
Rosina Cress & Lillian Kouba
Rosina Cress and Lillian Kouba
were honored on their retirement with a May
21, 1980, reception in the AP Room. Both
gave cheerful service as lunchroom cooks
to hundreds of students over the years.
Rosina began working in the Center Point
kitchen in the fall of 1959 and served the
district for 20 years. Lillian served the
district for 15 years. When presenting their
certificates, Principal Richard Whitehead
said, “In this time when job turnovers are
common and constant change seems to be
the current fad, it is gratifying to have had
the loyal and devoted service of Rosina and
Lillian for so many years. They took pains
to serve us well and took great pride in their
work.”
Rosina Cress and Lillian Kouba at their retirement reception, May
21, 1980.
Wayne Weyth takes a break from his duties.

225
Principal Dick Whitehead in the outer office with sec-
retary Corky Kramer during the 1979-80 school year.
Richard T. Whitehead
Dick Whitehead started his teaching career in
Center Point in 1971 as a social studies teacher and
coach. Six years later he moved into the role of high
school principal which he held for the next five years.
In 1982, he became superintendent of the district, a po-
sition he held for the next 20 years. Under his leader-
ship the district was able to pass bond issues as needed
to improve the facilities and attempt to keep up with the
rapid expansion of both the Center Point and Urbana
communities. He also worked to combine the Center
Point and Urbana districts into one starting with whole-
grade sharing in the 1989-90 school year and consoli-
dation in 1993. He constantly challenged the staff to be
on the cutting-edge of education, providing the best ex-
periences possible for the children of the district.
His love of sports kept him involved with the stu-
dents. He filled the role of clerk of course for all home track meets. Some say the wall in the gym has
a worn spot from where he stood viewing many sporting events.
While in Center Point, Dick and his wife, Donna, raised three children: Jeff, Tim, and Lindsey.
Donna is still a member of the English department at Center Point-Urbana.
During the 2002-03 school year, he was recognized as a finalist for the Superintendent for the
year, a nomination he received from his peers. In the spring of 2003, he announced he would be taking
a position at College Community in Cedar Rapids.
Perhaps one of his favorite quotes, coming from Madeline Hunter, sums up his personality and
choice to move on: “If you want to feel secure, do what you already know how to do. If you want to be
a true professional and continue to grow . . . go to the cutting edge of your competence, which means a
temporary loss of security. So whenever you don’t quite know what you’re doing, know you’re grow-
ing.”
Elouise “Corky” Kramer
Though small in
stature, Corky filled a room
with her presence and
laughter. She began her
time at CPHS on a one
month non-paid probation-
ary period because the dis-
trict wasn’t sure if the prin-
cipal, Mr. Devine, really
needed a secretary. Corky
was willing to take the risk
because she knew she
could handle the job. That
Corky and principal David Lammers ham it up for the yearbook photographer in 1973.

226
was the fall of 1969 and she was still here in the spring of 1988. Corky ran the office with efficiency
and humor, “breaking in” a few principals along the way. She had many jobs, including preparing for
the May awards ceremony which was a job in itself. Although she very efficient, once in a great while
a typo would slip by her. One such misprint in the daily bulletin reported the “the homecoming half-
time will conclude with the drowning of the queen”. Corky often was amused by the excuses sent to the
office when students had been absent. She had quite a collection of them and often talked of putting
them in a book. On December 29, 2000, God needed another secretary and Corky took the call.

227
Doctors and Dentists
Over the years there were many doctors and dentists that practiced in Center Point. In this
section we will attempt to cover the more prominent ones.
Physicians
According to the History of Linn County, 1878, there were only two residents on the town plat
when it was laid out in 1854. One of these residents was Samuel M. Brice, “a practicing physician who
also sold some goods.” He was also appointed the town’s first postmaster in 1855.
Leonidas L. Wilson
Mr. Wilson was born in Chesterville, Ohio, on July 23, 1843. In 1855
he moved with his parents to Center Point. His father, J. F. Wilson had the
first drug store in Center Point. In his early years, he devoted his time largely
to taxidermy and the animals were displayed in his father’s drug store. Although
he is called a physician and druggist in the 1878 Edition of Linn County History,
there was more of an emphasis on his role in his father’s business, J. F. Wilson
& Company, druggists and manufacturers of patent medicines (In his obituary,
published in May 18, 1916, there is no mention at all that he was a physician).
This business was located on the west side of Main Street in the 700 block on
the corner of Main and Olive. The biography states that Dr. Wilson had
“entire control of the drug department and general management of the patent
medicine department.” Some of the patent medicines they manufactured were:
the Iowa Liniment, Iowa Pain Remedy, Cholera Remedy, Lung Syrup and
Vegetable Anti-Bilious Pills. The biography said that the business kept “from five to seven sale wagons
constantly on the road, and have established a large and reliable trade.” Their sales in 1877 were over
$30,000.
L. L. Wilson also started the first real newspaper in Center Point, the Center Point Lotus, with the
first issue being published on May 15, 1873 (it should be noted that the Center Point News was the first
newspaper to be published in Center Point in 1869, but only lasted approximately a year and was very
small). The 1878 biography said that the newspaper was established “for advertising and other purposes.”
Mr. Wilson enlisted in the Union army on August 25, 1862, and participated in the following
Civil War battles: Newtonia, MO, Prairie Grove AK, Fort Morgan AL, Blakely and Mobile AL. He
was discharged in 1865. In 1867 he married Emma L. Hughes and had one child, Laura E. Mr. Wilson
was instrumental in drawing up the documents for the incorporation of Center Point in 1875 and served
on the first Town Council. In later years L. L. Wilson made his exclusive business selling insurance
L. L. Wilson

228
and bonds, and running L. L. Wilson’s “Old Curio Shop”, which was located in the lot on the south side
of Washington Street directly behind what is now Nelson’s Cabinets.
L. L. Wilson passed away on May 10, 1916, at the age of 72.
Francis Marion Yost, M.D.
Dr. Francis Marion Yost was born in Maryland on March 13, 1825, to Bartlet
and Jane (McClure) Yost. In 1853, he began the practice of medicine and settled in
Center Point in the spring of 1855. In 1857 he was married to Charlotte A. Gitchell
and between them they had 6 children. Of these children, three died in infancy, and
two sons, Charles G. and Bartley B., grew up to become medical doctors and practice
in Center Point. Another son, Francis L., grew up to be a substantial businessman
and hardware dealer in Center Point. In 1863, Dr. Yost built the large brick house
located at 520 Main Street. He was a practicing physician in Center Point for more
than 60 years and was very active in Center Point affairs, having served on the first
Town Council when the town was incorporated in 1875. His office was located at
610 Main Street. This building is now a home that is occupied in 2004 by Lois
McNiel. Dr. Yost died on October 12, 1918.
Joseph S. Winans, M.D.
Dr. Winans was born on October 12, 1831, in Otsego County, New York, the son of Silas and
Elizabeth (Smith) Winans. He attended Hamilton College in New York, from which he graduated in
1853. After graduation, he wandered westward, settling in Linn County in 1854. In 1855 he took up
surveying in addition to taking a course of medical lectures. Around this time he went to Montana
where he engaged in mining, surveying, and practicing medicine. In 1868 he retraced his footsteps and
again settled in Center Point, where he spent most of the rest of his life practicing medicine. His office
was located in a building, since razed, which occupied the space at 810 Main Street (currently, in 2004,
occupied by Batcheler Midwest Transport, Inc.).
In 1860 Dr. Winans married Mary E. Russell who died on January 19, 1866. They had 2 daughters,
Alice and Lillie. Dr. Winans died on March 7, 1890, from complications from kidney disease. He had
been in declining health for seven months prior to his death. Dr. Winans was known as a man of fine
literary taste and a good Latin and Greek scholar.
J. H. Lowrey M.D.
Dr Lowrey had an office on the west side of Main Street according to an October 18, 1884
newspaper listing the businesses of Center Point.
Lloyd H. Sarchett, M.D.
According to an ad in the Center Point newspaper on September 17, 1891,
Dr. Sarchett’s office and residence was located on North Main Street. He was in
practice with Dr. Mark Newland, a cousin of his, and moved his practice to Urbana
soon after he and Dr. Newland built their new office near the SE corner of State
Dr. Francis M. Yost
L. H. Sarchett, M.D.

229
and Main Street in 1900. He practiced in Urbana until around 1907, when he relocated to Walker,
where he practiced until 1909 before finally moving to Kansas.
De Forrest Elmer Tiffany, M.D.
Dr. Tiffany was born in Harvard, Illinois, and came to Center Point with
his parents at an early age. In 1890, he graduated from Center Point High School
and attended medical school. After graduating from medical school, he returned
to Center Point where he practiced until 1899. He then he took a postgraduate
course in medicine in Chicago and then practiced in Cedar Rapids. In 1918, he
moved to San Jose, California, where he passed away on March 30,

1941, from a
heart attack. His wife, Estella, preceded him in death. They had no children.
Mark A. Newland, M.D.
Dr. Mark Allen Newland was born near Center Point on June 29, 1870,
to Hamilton D. and Malinda Jane Newland. He grew up in Center Point and
graduated from the Center Point high school class of 1889. That fall he enrolled
at the State University at Iowa City and received his M.D. degree in 1892. He
first set up his practice in Toddville, but 8 months later he relocated to Center
Point in February 1893 where he practiced for more than 50 years. On
September 15, 1892, he married Alma A. Fleming. To this union were born 3
children. One of the children, Dr. Elzo Newland, was associated with his father
in the practice of medicine. Mrs. Newland passed away in 1904, and on June
16, 1905, he married Mrs. Maude E. Kubias. To this union were born two
children.
Dr. Newland built and lived in the house at 715 Summit Street, which still bears his name on a
granite block at the front of the house. In a Cedar Rapids Gazette interview in 1942, Dr. Newland
reflected back on his 50 years as
a doctor. For the first 20 years
of his practice he had the same
horse, named Rastus, a bay
gelding which he used to make
house calls. He estimated that
during this 20 years, he probably
“covered about 20,000 miles of
good bad, and indifferent roads.”
During his career he said he
delivered approximately 3,000
babies. When asked what the
biggest change that he saw in the
practice of medicine during his
50 years, he replied, “The
outstanding change is that the
number of confinement cases
has dropped off considerably.
Nowadays when people become
M. A. Newland, M.D.
Front l-r: Hamilton Dee, Dr. Mark A., wife Maude, Marie. Back: Fae Marie,
Elzo. Circa, 1915.

230
ill they go to a hospital. Most babies are born in hospitals now, too, whereas when I started my
practice almost all of them were born at home.”
He was known to have owned the first horseless carriage in Center Point, a fact he was proud of.
The 1942 Gazette article went on to describe his reception room as having “a case of stuffed animals,
all of which are native to the area, and reveal a former skill as a taxidermist.”
Dr. Newland died on June 27, 1943, at the age of 73. His office was in a red brick building that
was located on the second lot in on the southeast corner of the intersection of State and Main Street.
Bartley B. Yost, M.D.
Dr. Bartley B.Yost was born at Center Point on February 13, 1872, to
Francis and Charlotte Yost. He took literature courses at Cornell College and a
course in pharmacy at the University of Iowa before attending the St Louis College
of Physicians and Surgeons with his brother, Charles. Both graduated in 1898.
After taking a post-graduate course in Chicago College for Physicians and Surgeons
he began his practice with his father in Center Point. He was married to Lottie E.
Ellis on May 1, 1889, to which two daughters, Zanita L. and Eula Belle were born.
Later in his life he began to suffer from failing health. In an attempt to
restore his health, he moved to Arizona, and then to California. Unfortunately, this
was to no avail. He passed away on February 7, 1916, just short of his 44
th
birthday.
Charles Gitchell Yost, M.D.
Dr. Charles Gitchell Yost was born at Center Point on February
20, 1874, to Francis and Charlotte Yost. In 1891 he graduated from Center
Point high school, and received a Bachelor of Science degree from the
University of Iowa in 1897. He received his doctor of medicine degree
from St Louis College of Physicians and Surgeons along with his brother,
Bartley, in 1898. He also did some postgraduate studies at Chicago
Polyclinic in 1899. He started his practice in Center Point in 1898. His
first office was with his father, F. M. Yost, in the house that his father
built and lived in on the SE corner of Iowa and Main Street. His second
office was located approximately 3 lots in on the NW corner of Main and
Olive Street, next to Heverly Hardware. Later in his career his office was
in the red brick building that Dr. Newland had occupied near the SE
corner of Main and State Street.
In June of 1905, he married Charity Ellen Lyman. During his career
he served on the town council and was a member of the Linn county and state medical societies. In a
quote from a June, 1953, article in the
Cedar Rapids Gazette, it was stated that in 1908 Dr. Yost had his
first automobile: “It was the best car I’ve ever had,” he mused. “When something went wrong with the
motor, I knew what cylinder was causing the trouble. Only had one…a one-cylinder Cadillac.” Ronnie
Lyman, his great-nephew, remembers him saying that with his first car, he would always have three or
four flat tires on the way to Cedar Rapids to pick up medical supplies, etc, and that if it rained, he
usually got stuck and a farmer would have to pull him out with a team of horses. He retired from
practice in 1953 because of poor health. He passed away August 22, 1956, at the age of 82.
Bartley B. Yost, M.D.
Charles G. Yost, M.D.
1900 photo

231
Clarence Hayes Doty, M.D.
Dr. Doty was born the son of Ernest E. and Maude Doty, at Union,
Iowa on April 17, 1880. After graduating from school in his hometown, he
went to Chicago and attended the medical school of the University of Illinois,
from which he graduated in 1903. After his internship, he practiced medicine
at Huntley, Illinois, and at Albion, Iowa, prior to relocating to Center Point in
the fall of 1913. Dr. Doty’s office was originally located on the west side of
the 700 block of Main Street with Dr. Liabo, a dentist. In the 1920’s, they
relocated their office to 909 Main Street. In 1905, he married Gertrude Ward
of Elgin, Illinois. Two daughters were born to them, Dorothy Mable and
Virginia May. The wife and mother died, and several years later, in 1916, Dr.
Doty married Lena Ring of Center Point, who survived him.
Dr. Doty was an active member of the Center Point community, having
served on the school board for eight years, five of them as president. When
World War I came, Dr. Doty enlisted in June 1917 but was not called into service until May of the
following year. Although he spent some time in England, most of his time was spent in New York City.
He was discharged from the service August 2, 1919, with the rank of Captain. He had a real love of
horticulture and spent many hours cultivating his flowers. He also had a large orchard.
In the summer of 1930 his health broke so completely that he was forced to give up his practice
in August of that year. His health continued to steadily decline until he passed away from a massive
stroke on March 14, 1932, at the age of 51.
J. Elzo Newland M.D.
Dr. Elzo Newland was born to Dr. Mark and Alma Newland in 1894. He graduated from Center
Point High School in 1910. He attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids and then attended medical
school at the Hahnemann Medical School in Chicago. Upon graduation he returned to Center Point to
go into practice with his father, Dr. Mark Newland. In 1919, he married Marjorie Connor and they had
3 children. On March 14, 1937, he passed away at the age of 43 following a 3-month battle with cancer.
Dr. Newland was the first commander of the American Legion in Center Point.
Warren G. Bogle, M.D.
Warren Bogle practiced in Center Point for approximately 5 years in the last half of the 1940’s.
His office was located at 806 Main Street prior to moving his office to Marion. Shortly thereafter, he
was called into the service. After leaving the army, he took a residency to become an anesthesiologist
and moved his practice to Madison, Wisconsin.
Kenneth N. Andersen, M.D.
When Dr. Kenneth Andersen began his practice in Center Point on February 1, 1951, no one
knew at the time that he would still be practicing 50 years later. No one, perhaps, except for him. He
was born on December 5, 1924, the 9
th
of 10 children, to Christian and Marian Andersen, parents that
had emigrated from Denmark in the early 1900’s. He grew up on a farm near Missouri Valley, Iowa. It
Clarence H. Doty M.D.

232
was there that he attended grade school in a one room country schoolhouse
and high school in Missouri Valley. Growing up on the farm, young
Kenneth’s role model was his older brother, Holger, who had graduated
from medical school in 1934, and was practicing in Strawberry Point,
Iowa. At an early age he knew he wanted to be a physician. As a matter
of fact, his first surgery was performed when he was a young teen on a
cow that had the “bloat” from eating too much alfalfa. He drove a stake
into the cow’s abdomen, allowing the gasses to escape, and thus saving
the cow.
After graduating from high school, Dr. Andersen took undergraduate
courses, first at the University of Iowa in the fall of 1942, and continuing
at the University of Pennsylvania in 1944 after he was drafted into the
United States Army in 1943. In the fall of 1945, he began his medical
training at Johns Hopkins University, in Baltimore, Maryland, graduating
on June 14, 1949. On June 23, 1949, he married Marilyn Baumgartner,
whom he had met while doing a preceptorship with his brother, Holger, in Strawberry Point, Iowa.
While doing his residency in 1950 at St. Luke’s Hospital, Cedar Rapids, he treated an accident victim
from Center Point. The father of the accident victim, the town postmaster, Willard Street, asked him if
he knew of anyone who would be interested in being a doctor in Center Point. Dr. Andersen said that
he might. Shortly afterwards, a delegation came from Center Point and offered a building at 806 Main
Street for him to rent for his practice. The rest is, of course, history. Dr. Andersen occupied the office
on Main Street until 1957, when he built a new office at 826 Summit. In the early years his wife,
Marilyn, who attended the University of Iowa College of Nursing, served as his nurse.
In 1995, realizing the importance of guaranteeing that the town of Center Point would always
have medical care, Dr. Andersen sold his practice to Mercy Medical Center of Cedar Rapids. He continued
on as the town’s only physician until 1997 when he was joined by Dr; John Lancaster. In November
1998, after 41 years in the Summit Street office, he moved to the new Mercy Care Clinic on Lewis
Access Road. It was there that he continued to serve until his retirement in August, 2001.
Dr. and Mrs. Andersen have four children, Holly, Christa, Philip, and
Kenneth. Holly (Ron) Bach is an English teacher in Eagan, MN; Christa
Andersen (Terry Potter) is a homemaker in Beaver, PA; Philip (DeEtta)
is a dentist in Center Point; and Kenneth M. (Elizabeth) is a physician in
Des Moines. Over the years, Dr. and Mrs. Andersen have been active
members of the community. Dr. Andersen was a past president of the
Lions Club, and one of the founders of the library. Mrs. Andersen served
on the city council for 6 years and has been a member of a foster care
review board for the past 18 years. In 1999 they established the Kenneth
and Marilyn Andersen Family Scholarship at the CPU school. Dr.
Andersen continues to practice medicine to this day, working at least two
days a week at the Community Health Free Clinic in Cedar Rapids. In
May 2004, Dr. Andersen was notified that he was the recipient of the
2004 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Iowa Academy of Family
Physicians.
Kenneth N. Andersen, M.D.
1951 photo
Dr. Kenneth Andersen
2004 photo

233
John E. Lancaster, Jr., M.D.
Dr. John E. Lancaster, Jr., was born in Topeka, Kansas, on April 2,
1962, to John and Lucy Lancaster. He has two brothers and one sister. He
grew up in Marion, Iowa, graduating from Linn Mar High School in 1980.
He was a Distinguished Graduate from the United States Air Force Academy
in 1984. He graduated from medical school at the F. Edward Herbert School
of Medicine, in Bethesda, Maryland in 1988. After 16 years in the United
States Air Force, he left the service in 1996, joining Dr. Kenneth Andersen
at the Center Point Mercy Medical Clinic in December of that year. When
asked what brought him to Center Point, he had several reasons: “My wife
and I were wanting to return to our hometown of Marion to be nearer to
family. When the opportunity to practice medicine in a small town became
available, it was a perfect opportunity for us. When I met Dr. Andersen and his staff, I knew this is
where I wanted to practice.”
On June 9, 1984, he married Katie Lowe of Marion, and to this union six children have been
born. Their names are Alexandra, Angela, Hannah, Michael, Sean, and Kirstin.
Paul Charles Thomas, D.O.
Dr. Paul Thomas was born October 12, 1965 in DeWitt, Iowa, to
Tom and Sue Thomas. He is one of five children. He grew up in West
Chester, Iowa, graduating from Mid-Prairie high school in 1984. He
graduated from Simpson College, with a B.A. degree in Biology and
was a 1992 graduate from the University of Osteopathic Medicine in
Des Moines. After graduation, he was in the United States Air Force for
7 years. On May 22, 1998, he married his wife, Diana, and they now
have two children, Blake and Nicole. In August 2001, he came to Center
Point to take the place of Dr. Kenneth Andersen when he retired from
practice. Dr. Thomas saw this as an opportunity to practice medicine in
a smaller town with a friend, Dr. John Lancaster, whom he met while
Dr. John Lancaster
Drs. Paul Thomas and John
Lancaster are shown outside the
MercyCare Clinic, built in 1998.
Dr. Paul Thomas

234
they were both in the Air Force. Dr. Thomas enjoys family time with his wife and children. He also
enjoys pheasant hunting with his brother.
DENTISTS
Dr. Loren Oliphant
Dr. Loren Oliphant was born the son of Mr. And Mrs. Edward Oliphant in Linn County on June
12, 1850. He originally tried his hand at farming, but decided to become a dentist. He was born and
raised in the town of Center Point and as a result, decided to set up his dental practice in Center Point,
which he established in 1876. He was married to Mary Elson, August 11, 1879, and to this union were
born seven children, one of whom died in infancy. Poor health later in his life compelled Dr. L. Oliphant
to quit the profession that he loved. Death came to Dr. Oliphant on November 27, 1903, at the age of
53. He is buried at the Oliphant cemetery south of town.
Dr. Earnest B. Ringnell
Dr. Earnest B. Ringnell was born in Sweden on February
11, 1882. At the age of 11, Earnest came to America and resided
in Minnesota where he took two years of dental work at Fairbault,
Minnesota. He then attended The University of Iowa where he
completed his degree in 1911. That same year he married Fresca
Fern Guynn, then of Toddville, and they made Center Point their
home. They had two children, one of whom preceded him in death.
It was in Center Point where he remained for the rest of his life.
Dr. Ringnell was “deaf and dumb”, but by all accounts, this did
not interfere with his practice of dentistry. His office was located
at what is presently (in 2004) the two-story apartment across the
street from the post office on the 700 block of Main Street. His
office was on the ground floor, north side. The telephone company
was on the south side of the building. Dr. Ringnell passed away
on January 24, 1936.
Carl Liabo, D.D.S.
Dr. Carl E. Liabo was born on November 10,
1885 at Westby, Wisconsin to Kristopher and
Elizabeth Johnson Liabo. He graduated from Hiland
Park College in Des Moines in 1910. Following
graduation, he taught school in Northeastern Iowa.
Dr. Liabo was a veteran of World War 1. After the
war he graduated from the University of Iowa dental
school in 1919. On December 28, 1921, he was
married to Edna Rogers Smiley at Center Point. To
Dr. Carl E. Liabo office,
909 Main Street. Photo
taken in 1954.
Dr. Earnest B. and Fresca Ringnell
Carl E. Liabo, D.D.S.

235
this union were born three daughters, Jeanne E. (Oxley), Patricia A. (Andersen) and Darlene E. (Bohling),
and a son, Leslie. Dr. Liabo’s office was located at 909 Main Street. He was very active in Center Point
affairs, having served on the Center Point school board as well as on the city council.
Gary R. Dundee, D.D.S.
Dr. Gary R. Dundee was born in Waukon, Iowa, on July 11, 1939, to
Leland and Ann Dundee. He had one brother. After graduating from Waukon
St. Pats high school in 1957, he attended the University of Iowa and the
University of Iowa College of Dentistry, graduating in May, 1963. On
November 26, 1960, he married Carol Scheel and they had 4 children, Jodi,
Lynette, Jill and Ryan. On August 15, 1963, he set up practice at 203
Washington Street, below the office of Dr. Kenneth Andersen, MD, who had
recruited him. In 1973 he built a new office
at 329 Washington Street and relocated
there. In July 1982, Dr. Dundee took in Dr.
Philip Andersen as an associate. In 1993,
he sold his practice to Dr. Andersen and
retired.
Over the years Dr. Dundee has been very
active in the community, serving on the
school board for nine years, and as a member of the Center Point
Booster Club. In addition, he has been a member of the crew that
runs the chains for the Center Point- Urbana football team for over
25 years. He was also one of the early share holders of the Rolling
Acres Golf Course and is still a part owner to this day. Dr. Dundee is an avid golfer, farmer, and
antique car enthusiast. He is also a member of Ducks Unlimited. His wife Carol raises horses.
Philip N. Andersen D.D.S.
Dr. Philip Nels Andersen was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Dr.
Kenneth and Marilyn Andersen on August 29, 1955. He was one of 4 children,
the other 3 being Holly, Christa, and Kenneth. Dr. Andersen is a life long
resident of Center Point. After graduating from Center Point high school in
1973, he attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids. After graduating from Coe
College, he attended the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, graduating
in 1982. He was recruited by Dr. Gary Dundee to return to Center Point,
which he did, starting in July of 1982. He shared the office with Dr. Dundee.
In 1993, Dr. Dundee retired and Dr. Andersen took on an associate, Dr. Deb
Carneol, who practiced with him for 3 years. She was succeeded by Dr Tim
Hayden, who practiced for 2 years; Dr. Ali Soulati, who practiced for 1 year;
and now Dr. Terra K. Hickey, who has been in practice with Dr. Andersen for
4 years.
In May 1984, Dr. Andersen married DeEtta Hartunian. They have 3
children, Lorick, Eva, and Alexander.
Gary R. Dundee, D.D.S.
1963 Photo
Philip N. Andersen, D.D.S.
2002 photo
Dr. Dundee on his last day of work,
August 14, 1993.

236
On October 1, 2002, Dr. Andersen moved his office to 907 Bank Court in Center Point and
renamed it Center Point Family Dentistry. This move was made necessary because he had outgrown the
office at 329 Washington Street.
Dr. Andersen has been active with the Center Point Community Historical Society and has been
a past chairman of the Linn County Historical Preservation Advisory Committee. His love of Center
Point history has inspired him to decorate his office with old photos of the town. His other outside
interests include antique cars, camping, photography and raising chickens. DeEtta has a Masters Degree
in Science Education and was a science teacher at the Urbana School from 1985 to 1989 and at Center
Point-Urbana in 1990. Since then, she has been a substitute teacher for the district and has been active
in school affairs. She is responsible for a program that the elementary now has where 3
rd
graders are
given the opportunity to play the violin.
Terra K. Hickey, D.D.S.
Terra K. Hickey was born on April 14,1974 in Cedar Rapids. Her
parents are Jane Mason and Larry Klotzbach. She has two brothers, Todd
Klotzbach and Tom Mason. Dr. Hickey graduated from Cedar Rapids Jefferson
high school in 1992, and from Coe College in 1996, then graduated from the
University of Iowa College of Dentistry in 2000. On June 22, 1992, she married
Shane Hickey and they have one son, Chase, who was born in October 2002. In
July of 2000, she began her association with Dr. Philip Andersen. Terra enjoys
reading, as well as spending time with her family and friends. She and her
husband also enjoy attending local hockey games, as well as spending time
outdoors, especially boating.
Terra K. Hickey, D.D.S.
2002 photo

237
Dr. Andersen’s first office
was located on Main Street.
He practiced there from 1951
to 1957.
Kenneth Nels Andersen, M.D.
Dr. Andersen’s office from 1957 to
1998. This photo was taken a few
days after the tornado, which hit
Center Pont on 4/23/61. Note roof
damage.
Dr Andersen in the
reception room of his
826 Summit Street
office, 1998.
Dr. Andersen in the lab area of his
Summit Street office, 1993.
A photo of Dr. Andersen and his family
taken at the retirement party held in his
honor on August 25, 2001. From left to
right, front row, Kenneth and Marilyn
Andersen. Back row: Kenneth, Philip,
Holly, and Christa.
Young Kenneth, around 3
years old, with his older
brother, Holgar, who
became a physician in
Strawberry Point. It was
Holgar who inspired Dr.
Andersen to become a
physician.

238
Dr. Mark A. Newland
Left: This 1906 photo shows Dr.
Newland’s office, located near the SE
corner of State and Main. it is the brick
building located at the center of this
photograph. This office was built in
1900 and was Dr. Newland’s office until
his retirement. The building was razed
in the late 1970’s for the construction of
a building occupied by the Center Point
Bank until 2003.
Above: The interior of Dr. Newland’s office in
the early 1900’s. Dr. Newland can be seen
standing in front of the medicine case in his
private office.
Left: The medicine
case in Dr. Newland’s
private office. Photo
taken early 1900’s.
Above: A 1910 photo of the house built by Dr.
Newland on the SW corner of Summit and State
Streets. He occupied the house until his death.
Left: This 1942
photo of Dr. Mark
Newland was taken
as part of a Cedar
Rapids Gazette in-
terview, commemo-
rating 50 years of
service to his com-
munity. He is stand-
ing in front of the
same medicine case
pictured below.

239
Francis Marion Yost
The Francis M. Yost family around the year 1888. From left to right.
Back Row—Francis L. Yost (1863-1934). Jessie May Yost (1868-1937),
Bartlet B. Yost (1872 – 1916) and Charles G. Yost (1874 – 1956). Front
Row—Dr. Francis Marion Yost (1825 – 1918) and Charlotte (Gitchell)
Yost (1837 to 1922).
The Francis M. Yost residence, circa 1910. Pictured in front
is Charlotte Gitchell Yost. This house is located at 520 Main
Street, and is the current residence of Dr. Kenneth Andersen.
Charlotte A. (Gitchell) Yost

240
Dr. Charles G. Yost home. Photo circa 1910. This home is still present and is
located on the NW corner of Main and State Street.
Charity Ellen (Lyman) Yost (9/10/1884-
8/22/1971). She married Dr. Charles
Yost in 1905.Dr. Charles Yost on the south side of his
home. Photo circa 1940.
Charles G. Yost

241
A new office was built in 1973 at 329
Washington Street. In 1982, Dr. Philip
Andersen joined his practice at this
address. In 1993, Dr. Dundee retired and
Dr. Andersen continued at this location.
Photo taken 1999.
In 2002, Dr. Andersen and his associate,
Dr. Terra Hickey moved to their newly
constructed office located at 907 Bank
Court. There have been many changes
in dentistry over the years and this office
was constructed with an eye to the future.
Dr. Dundee had his office at this
location, 203 Washington Street, from
1963 to 1973. The office was located in
the basement below Dr. Kenneth
Andersen’s medical office. Photo taken
2004.
Dental Offices, 1963 to Present

242
Dr. Kenneth Andersen Remembers
In May 2004, Dr. Kenneth Andersen wrote down a few of his memories relating to his practice in
Center Point.
Marilyn and I came to Center Point on February 5, 1951, to settle down and have been here ever
since. Many changes have occurred since then. I should first mention how I happened to come to
Center Point. I was employed by St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids in a residency when the victims
of an automobile accident were brought to the emergency room by ambulance. The father of one of the
victims said they needed a doctor in Center Point and did I know of anyone that was available. I
facetiously said that I was and had subsequently forgotten about it. Later a delegation from Center
Point came to St. Luke’s Hospital to discuss my coming to Center Point. Subsequently, they formed a
group and bought an old building on Main Street. The first floor was converted into an office and the
second floor was converted into an apartment. The people in the group that bought the building were
Andy Hendryx, Leo Notbohm, Davis Snyder, Carrol Hoglan, a man by the name of Lanning, Jack
Sholes, Lloyd Grubbs, and Eldon Dennison.
My brother, who was a doctor in Strawberry Point (he was about 16 years older than me), gave
me his old discarded waiting room furniture and old antique examination tables. He also loaned me
enough money to get started. I will be eternally grateful to him and his wife.
In 1951, there was Dr. Charles G. Yost practicing medicine in Center Point; Marshall Dingman
was a doctor at Urbana; Dr. Skallerup and Dr. Charles Clausen were practicing in Walker. Dr. Yost
started here in 1898 and Dr. Dingman started in 1903. I don’t know when Dr. Skallerup and Dr.
Clausen started, but it was sometime in the early 1900’s.
I visited Dr. Yost when I came here and he was pleasant and talkative. He told me if he had to
start over again, he would not choose to be a doctor. He did not elaborate further. I knew Dr. Dingman
before I came to Center Point. I met him at St Luke’s hospital in Cedar Rapids when he was delivering
a baby. He told me he went directly from high school to medical school and only had to go three years.
There was no internship at that time. Dr. Yost went to medical school one year and then went to
Chicago for postgraduate training.
Dr. Dingman only had running water in his office for one year and then the plumbing froze.
When Dr. Dingman needed water, he would fill a quart jar from the city pump. He never kept any
written record of seeing the patient and often he would reach into a pocket and pick out pills for a
patient. The same was true of Dr. Yost. Both were very congenial and gracious.
My first office had such high ceilings that we joked about clouds coming in through the open
windows. It was heated by oil stoves reminiscent of the early 1900’s. In 1957, I built a new office.
Office calls when I first started were $2.00, $2.50 and $3.00, depending on how complex the
visit. Many people voiced their disapproval of the charges and said Dr. Dingman only charged a
quarter and sometimes 50 cents or a dollar. Once he did a home delivery and was paid with two frozen
dressed rabbits. They went on to say that even though he charged such low fees, he was fabulously
wealthy so why did I charge so much? Dr. Dingman also had very neat penmanship, which I admired
very much.
I charged $5.00 for each hospital visit.
I delivered about 1000 babies, including many children of children that I had delivered.
There was no ambulance service when I first began my practice. The funeral home in Central
City had an ambulance service. The first ambulance that Center Point had was an older model. I
remember when they were making a call in Shellsburg down in a wooded area at the bottom of a large
hill. In order for the ambulance to return up the hill, everyone had to get out except the patient and the

243
ambulance driver. Since then, the equipment has improved and Center Point now has very excellent
equipment, service, and dedicated volunteers.
I carried many medications myself because there was no pharmacist in Center Point when I
started my practice. I did this as a matter of convenience to the elderly who had no means of transportation.
The nearest drug store was in Cedar Rapids. Patients were given the option of whether they wanted a
written prescription or the medicine.
Unfortunately, in later years, the presence of drugs in my office provided a tempting target for
robbers. My office was first broken into in 1975. The robbers that committed the first break-in were
caught after they drove their car into a culvert much like a cork into a bottle. Apparently they couldn’t
wait to get high on the drugs they had stolen and passed out.
In all, I had more than a dozen break-ins. These included breaking down the front and back
door; destroying the back door by cutting a hole in it; and probably the most imaginative: sawing a hole
in the floor and coming up through it from the basement into the medicine room after first breaking out
a basement window and entering through it. This was done to avoid setting off the burglar alarm,
which was wired to all the upstairs windows and doors, including the interior doors, but not to the floor
or basement windows. Overall, by the time the time the robberies stopped, the damage and stolen
goods and necessary repairs amounted to $25,000. I did find out that at least some of the break-ins
were committed by drug addicts to supply their habits. A parent of one of the original robbers said it
was my fault that I got robbed because the robbers would not have been tempted if I had not had the
drugs in my office.
From my arrival in 1951, up until the late 1970’s, I made thousands of house calls. This is
something that is rarely done in 2004. Back then, my nurse would write a list of the names of the people
I was supposed to see and tape it to my medical bag. After I stopped home for supper, I would start out
on the house calls. It wouldn’t be unusual to have three, four, or five stops in one evening. In addition,
I might start out in Urbana, travel to Shellsburg, and finish in Walker. The most house calls that I ever
made in one day was ten after 6pm. I finished the last one at midnight and had racked up 100 miles on
my car.
I remember one instance when I made a call at a house to rural Shellsburg. I had made close to
a dozen house calls to this address to reduce a hernia for an elderly gentleman. On each occasion I
would tell his son that the hernia should be surgically repaired so it wouldn’t keep happening. His son
always replied, “Well, you know Dad is 86 years old and he may not last very long and fixing the hernia
would be a waste.” Well, on this final house call to them, I was unable to reduce the hernia (put it back
into the abdomen). Not only was it stuck, but it was also strangulated (the blood supply to the herniated
part of the intestine had been shut off). The old gentleman was suffering a lot of pain. I told his son that
I had done everything that I could do for him there and that we were facing a deadly emergency. If
surgery was not performed soon, the trapped piece of bowel would die. After explaining this to his son,
I asked him which hospital he wished to send his dad to. At this point the son said, “I’ll have to talk it
over with my regular doctor.” To which I replied that I assumed that I was their doctor, since I had been
out so many times. He then said, “Oh no, you’re not our doctor. Our doctor doesn’t make house calls
and we knew that you did, so that’s why we called you.”
A house call at 3 a.m. in the wintertime while it was snowing comes to mind. Stella Newman,
a lady at the Toddville switchboard, called to say that someone who lived in the woods without a
telephone had come to tell her that his wife was ill and he wanted me to come to see her. He was vague
about her problem except that she was sick. When I found his house, I knocked on the door and he
came out and asked me to wait outside until he locked up his large dog. The dog had occasionally
inflicted injuries on people he didn’t like, which pretty much included everybody.

244
After about 10 minutes he came back outside and assured me everything was “ship shape” and it was
safe to come in. Shortly after I was inside, I heard scrambling and loud growling. I instinctively held
my doctor bag in front of me as I saw this dog charging toward me. I admit I had visions of being torn
apart. The dog didn’t slow down and rammed his head into the doctor bag so that he was rendered
unconscious. The husband looked puzzled and dragged the dog back to be locked up again. The dog
was too heavy to carry. He commented, “I guess I should have knowed the piece of string wasn’t strong
enough to keep him jailed. I’ll learn to use a piece of wire next time. Oh, by the way, I hope your Dr.
bag ain’t ruined.”
Prior to my examining his wife, the man told me that his wife had been suffering from her
problem for over a month. He said that he had told his wife “Enough is enough, you’ve been suffering
long enough. We’re getting the Dr. out here tonight!” As a follow up, I examined his wife and, after
asking a lot of questions, determined that the only thing she was suffering from was insomnia. I asked
her if she slept in the daytime to which she replied, “Yes, I do sleep in the daytime, sometimes as much
as 4 or 5 hours, but my trouble is I wish I knew what I can do so I can sleep at night.” I explained that
she should quit sleeping in the daytime and I knew she would be able to sleep at night. Also, I told her
to quit drinking anything with caffeine in it. Case closed.
In the early years we had no appointment book for scheduling patients. People would arrive at
any time during the day for treatment. If someone needed to be seen for follow-up care, I would just tell
them what day I wanted them to return and they would just show up sometime on that day. It wasn’t
until I had been in practice for quite a few years that I started keeping an appointment book. One of the
reasons why I did this was that invariably everyone would show up just before I was scheduled to close
and I would end up going home hours later. I remember having to argue with my brother Holgar, a
physician in Strawberry Point, to convince him that he should start scheduling appointments too.
Since I have been here, I have treated 16 women and 2 men who ultimately reached the age of
100 and beyond. My oldest patient was Inez Wormer who lived to be 110 years and 8 months. When
she was 103, a grandson of mine asked her who was president when she was born. She said she didn’t
know but would call after she figured it out. True to her word, she called that same afternoon and told
him that Grover Cleveland was president when she was born. She told my grandson, Andrew, that
Indians came up along the Cedar River every spring to make maple syrup and very often came to
houses begging for food. People had to keep their dogs locked up so they weren’t eaten by the Indians.
A man named Abner Stick and his daughter, Lucy Stick, were patients of mine. Abner was born
in 1856. He related that when he was 9 years old, he was walking down First Avenue in Cedar Rapids
when an excited man on horseback galloped up the street and kept yelling that President Lincoln had
been assassinated. Mr. Stick passed away in 1953.
His daughter, Lucy, never married and had taught in the state of Washington. She also had once
danced with Rudolph Valentino. She was selected out of everyone present at the dance. She showed me
pictures of herself when she was young and she was indeed a beautiful young woman then. Lucy lived
to be 99 years old.
Since I began practicing medicine, the following specialties have been broken down into
subspecialties: pulmonology, oncology, cardiology, gastroenterology, hematology and rheumatology.
The knowledge in all fields has been increasing at such a rapid rate that new things and changes in
treatment are occurring so frequently that it is hard to keep up. Even now that I have retired, I still
study an average of two hours a day because I enjoy being a doctor and being able to help people. I
continue to work as a doctor volunteer at the Community Health Free Clinic in Cedar Rapids at least 2
days a week.

245
Scrapbook
This section of the book contains miscellaneous articles and pictures. This last chapter allowed
flexibility to continue adding stories until the book was sent to the publisher. It also allowed some
stories to be featured that might be of particular interest to readers. Flexibility to present stories as they
were reported, sometimes gives the reader a perspective that would otherwise be lost in editing.
STAGECOACH DAYS IN CENTER POINT
In 1854, the Washington House Hotel was built on the northeast corner of Main and Washington
Streets. In its early days it was a stagecoach stop for drivers from Cedar Rapids to Independence and
Waterloo. Many Center Point businessmen who used to hold the reins of the stagecoach ended up
settling down in Center Point. Some of those men were John Gitchell, W. J. Langsdale, Griff Smith,
James M. Bartleson, and L. Hollenback. Mr. John Carr had acquired the stage route between CR and
Waterloo and hired these men. Mr. Carr was a lawyer, general storekeeper and became a large landowner
in Center Point area. He was a grandfather of Miss Emma Lavelle. Emma wrote in her memoirs that
Grandpa Carr, who lived in the old hotel in 1863,. vividly recalled how the stages drove briskly up.
In the 1850s, when James Bartelson drove the stage, he received $12 per month to carry the
mail between Cedar Rapids and Center Point. The fare to ride in those days was $1 from Cedar Rapids
to Waterloo. In 1858, James Bartelson married John Carr’s daughter, Amanda, and became a merchant
partner with his father-in-law. By then James had stopped
driving the stagecoach route.
In a 1925 newpaper article, Mr. Griff Smith was
quoted as saying when he drove the stage, he did it for
three cold, wet, and blizzardy winters. There were no
bridges and streams had to be forded when the ice would
not hold. Many times he had to be pulled out from being
stuck either in snow or mud. When a reporter asked him
what kind of stage did he drive, he snorted as he replied.
“Sometimes a damned old cutter with one runner off, and
sometimes it was heavy enough for four horses, but two
had to pull it.” After he quit driving stage, he became a
brick maker, which he said was easier and better paying.
He also stated the last and best man who ever stopped at
the hotel was William Jennings Bryan.
The home on the corner on the north end of Main
Street across from the cemetery was also known as an inn
and therefore also a stagecoach stop.
Drawing of the Washington House
from 1850.

246
TORNADO RIPS THRU CENTER POINT APRIL 23, 1961
Sunday, April 23, 1961 will remain in resident’s minds as the day a tornado caused much damage
to our town. The storm started in Marshalltown shortly before 10:30 am and cut a wide path thru
Dysart, Garrison, Vinton, and as far south as Whittier and Viola. A 51-year-old farmer, Leland Fry,
from Garrison lost his life when attending Sunday morning services at the Garrison Methodist church.
Six others were also injured when a brick chimney crashed through the roof of a new addition as they
were dashing to the basement for safety.
The worst damage was in Center Point where nearly every home sustained damage and 35-40
homes were heavily damaged needing major repairs. Even though the weather bureau classified it as a
tornado, no one saw a funnel cloud. Everything was pelleted with hail. Residents said the storm hit the
town at least twice from opposite directions. Mayor, Blake Shipton, was in church when it was announced
the storm was approaching. He tried to head home down Main Street and was stopped by downed
wires. His family rode the storm out in the car, which hit for 5-7 minutes from the southeast and then
turned around and hit from the other direction. The city council met Sunday afternoon and decided to
handle all the trees that needed to be cut down and hauled away. They used a public address system
mounted on the fire truck to notify residents as phone and electric service were not working.
Civil defense workers did a fine job providing mobile radio communications. The biggest
problem for a while was the traffic. It looked like the whole county converged on the town with the
highway closed. Once the highway was reopened, the sightseers were moved right through town. Iowa
Electric and Power Co. and telephone crews were also on the scene restoring lines. The main 115,000-
volt line was a double pole structure designed to withstand winds of 100 miles an hour and the wind
just blew it over. Most service
was restored by Tuesday. The Red
Cross was also on hand for
assistance.
The northwest section of
town was the hardest hit. The
Doris Willer residence on north
Summit Street was one of the
worst damaged (see picture).
Orville Ashlock was lying down
reading when bricks and boards
began flying past the window.
Orville, who walked with a cane,
rushed to the basement without his
cane. He thought ‘this was it, and
he doesn’t scare easily’. He had
7 windows blown out and major
roof damage. Doris Willer’s roof
ended up in his yard with 2x4s
hurled through his porch door and
a bedroom window. The roof was flipped off the Kennedy 66 Station and landed across the highway.
Two farms south of town with damage were Davis Synder, who lost a barn, and David and Russell
Gienapp who lost 20 windows in their house. The Gienapps pointed out how a bread sign next to their
driveway was knocked down, then when the wind switched, it was blown back up like nothing happened,
but you could see the outline of the sign in the mud where it was lying.
Doris Willer home on north Summit St. damaged extensively. Doris and her
two daughters, Jolene and Jeannie, were at church when the tornado struck.
The force of the wind pulled some of the contents out of the house.

247
Congressman James E. Bromwell’s two farms were severely damaged, probably $40,000 worth.
A cousin, Dave Bromwell, was in a shed on one of the farms when the sides caved in and the roof fell
in. He was battered, but not seriously hurt. Center Point farmer, Frank Cornette was in the barn when
the storm approached and hurriedly got his cows in the barn. As he was opening the barn door to leave,
the barn came apart. Debris struck him in the back knocking him face down into the muddy floor,
pinning him there. He scooped some of the mud away so he could breathe easier. A cow was pinned
down beside him and she kept kicking and bellowing. When she kicked, she was kicking Frank in the
hip and leg. After the storm let up his wife and daughter came and found him after much searching.
Help arrived a half hour later and freed Frank and the cow, both shaken, but in fair condition.
Throughout the town and nearby countryside over the next few weeks, homes and barns
were rebuilt, windows and shingles were replaced, trees were cut down and debris was hauled away by
truckloads.
THIS ‘N THAT FROM CENTER POINT NEWSPAPERS
Many of Center Point’s newspapers since 1873 have been preserved in albums owned by the
Historical Society. Many thanks goes to Eldon Dennison, town historian fifty years ago, for having the
foresight to store these in his insurance office. Also thanks goes to Harry Brookman, another historian,
for placing these newspapers into the albums. These albums proved invaluable as we wrote this history
book.
The school superintendant’s house.
The remnants of Glen “Chip” Dufoe’s garage. Kennedy Phillips 66 Station The roof landed across the highway.
Hail damage was rampant on homes throughout the
town.

248
As we read these albums we couldn’t help but take excerpts from them to share with the readers
of this book. It gives us a feel for what life was like in those early days. Journalism was very opinionated
and full of misstatements, as evidenced in seeing the retractions printed next time. What could and
couldn’t be printed has changed a lot since then. The comings and goings of people were printed
whether you wanted your business made public or not. Personal Correspondence was reported for
communities outside of Center Point such as Alice, Blue Banks, Green’s Grove, Jimtown, Nelson
Creek, and Urbana. In the newspaper’s ninety-five years of existence, there were 42 owners-publishers.
Considering what they wrote, no wonder the profession changed hands so many times. Enjoy.
1881
Special Notice: All book accounts due F. M. Grubbs must be settled at once as I need the money and
must have it without fail.
Some Indian squaws were on our streets New Year’s. They are camped down the river near J P. Williams.
1884
A few Indians made their appearance on our streets this week.
The eastern approach of our bridge across the Cedar River has
been washed out and taken down the river about two hundred
yards.
Bring in your old hats and have them made new at Mrs. Dunlap’s.
The cornet band will play at the Congregational Church Christmas
eve and at the Methodist Episcopel Church Christmas night.
The saloon on State Street known as the “Crystal Palace” opened
up in full blast last Saturday.
I KNOW YOU: Those parties who so boldly stole my groceries
out of my wagon last Saturday night had better bring them back,
as I know who you are. If you bring them back I will let maters
(sic) stand, but if you don’t I will act accordingly. John Lala
1885
Fifteen mile race at the skating rink Wednesday night.
A crippled soldier entertained our citizens with banjo and song on the streets Saturday.
Center Point will take a rest on the Fourth of July this year and help swell the crowd at Walker, Vinton
and other points.
J. C. Grubbs has recently put a meat wagon on the road and delivers meat of any kind right at your door.
1886

249
Notice: I take this method of warning all fruit tree
peddlers and others, to not hang on my gate or swing on
my clothesline. So hereafter you must beware. Geo.
Fee
Jim Stubbins borrowed a watch of his brother, Joseph,
about four weeks ago and promised to return the same
on the next day. Joseph has not seen anything of his
watch yet.
Mrs. Printy, who is said to have the consumption, is no
better at this writing.
If you want to get thumped like the dickens, attend the
Troy Mills celebration.
The graduating exercises of Center Point High School
will be held at Union Hall on the evening of June 25
th
.
Thermometer read 106 degrees in the shade Tuesday.
August 14 – the City Council has adjourned until next
winter.
Al Manahan has the best cow in Washington township,
without any exception. She is a Jersey.
It’s been a terrible “off year” when the Courier-Journal don’t get one load of wood on subscription.
1889
For Sale: House and three lots in Center Point, situated in the heart of the city. Property is worth $600,
but will be sold for $250. This is the best bargain ever offered in the town. For full particulars and
address, call on the editor of this paper.
A valuable horse was killed on the farm of Milton Squires Tuesday, caused by the shaft of a hay rake
breaking and being thrust into the horse’s side.
Diphtheria is said to be prevalent in certain sections of this township. Parents should exercise great
caution and not heedlessly expose their little ones.
1890
The bridge on State Street leading to the depot was damaged by high water last week, rendering it
impassable.
Center Point school will graduate a class of ten this year.

250
Friday, June 27
th
the B.C.R. & N.
will run a special train to Cedar
Rapids and return to accommodate
parties who wish to attend the races.
Going south at 7:30 a.m., leaving
Cedar Rapids 7:30 p.m. J. F.
Wormer, Agent
A High Old Time – Center Point
Kids Celebrate Halloween. It was
no question that the young
Americans did the job in good and
proper shape. The marshal was out
of town and the boys had full swing.
They full enjoyed the harmless
tricks. While there is no destruction
of property, it will take several days
to replace the signs and get other
property straightened out.
The boys began at 10:00 pm
and continued well on the morning.
Some of the pranks were: ringing
the church bell at midnight;
machinery in front of Manahan’s
implement store was distributed
about the city; Don Menear’s
peddling wagon was taken to
Yost’s pasture, on top of which was
placed Whit Langsdale’s delivery
wagon. Many signs were changed
about such as the restaurant sign at the blacksmith shop or the butcher’s sign at the doctor’s office. One
citizen found his cow tied in the summer kitchen adjoining his residence. One old lady upon hearing
the bell ringing at midnight, wandered to that part of town where she found other residents. “Where’s
the fire!” she inquired in an excited tone. Upon being told it was the work of boys, she returned home
in no pleasant frame of mind, saying, “The ornery pups–orter every last one of ‘em be arrested.
The enumerator has given the following population figures of Center Point and Washington township
for 1890:
Center Point 635
Washington township 905
Our little town has not increased as much as it had ought to have done. In 1885 it was:
Center Point 535
Washington township 838
In 1890 Center Point is a town of 635 residents with five churches and each one pretty well filled every
Sabbath. This gives the town a tone of
morality beyond question.

251
1891
RACES AT CENTER POINT DRIVING PARK
October 22, 1891. The third Matinee at the Center Point Driving Park last Saturday was one of
the best, if not the best matinee every held by the association. Fully 400 people witnessed the races
which were of an excellent order. The track was of fair condition and had it not been for the wind, a
great deal better time would have been made.
March 24, 1892. G. I. Richardson is repairing the stables at
the Driving Park and will begin driving horses in a few weeks. We
look for some fine racers this summer which will be a credit to our
little city. If some of the steppers go as fast as promised, they will go
at a 2:30 gait. Start your colts early in the season if you want trotting
horses. We have a few good drivers, and some we think record breakers.
July 30, 1892. The first matinee of the year will be held at the
Center Point Driving Park of Saturday afternoon. A two year old trot,
three year old trot and a four year old trot will be the attractions; all
half mile heats; bets two in three. A large crowd expected. Gate
receipt for purses. Admission 15¢, ladies free.
1894
Center Point can say that she has one of the best photographers in the west. People from afar come here
to get negatives. Examine J. A. Fairbanks Studio for yourselves.
1898
John Lala and Jake Kozina, two of our prosperous Bohemian farmers were pleasant callers at this
newspaper office Monday.
Tramps are putting in an appearance again,
some three or four having visited the city
this week.
Shellsburg is forming a baseball club.
Come over to Center Point, boys, when you
want to learn the game.
1899
This reporter happened out to the brick yard
the other day to see what was going on.
Chas. W. Johnson, owner, says he will
manufacture more brick than has ever been
made as there is a great building boom and
he will ship large numbers to other points.
The Center Point brick have established a
good reputation and neighboring towns
when in need a first-class brick can not do
better than placing their orders with C. W.
Johnson.

252
Dr. McKay, the painless dentist will be at the Central House again Friday and Saturday, July 29 and 30.
Dr. Yost has so far recovered from his recent illness as to be able to practice again. The doctor has so
many friends that think he ought never take time to get sick.
March 31, 1899 – One of the boldest and most daring robberies ever committed in this city was
successfully accomplished Thursday morning. At 2:30 am, Mrs. M. A. Newland was awakened by a
strange noise in her bedroom. As she raised up in bed, the robber turned towards her. She hollered out,
“Al, there’s a man with your pants!”. The fellow escaped thru a window. Dr. Newland discovered that
the thief had taken his gold watch and chain from his vest pocket and carried off his pants containing
his pocket book which contained $15. Mrs. Newland got a good view of the robber.
April 4, 1899 – Word reached the city yesterday morning that a party answering the description of the
man that burglarized Dr. Newland’s residence was camping in the timber near Mr. A. L. Mitchell’s
resident this side of Urbana. Dr. Newland, Constable Floyd and Marshall North started after the suspect.
They located the pair in camp and placed the two fellows under arrest and brought them to the town jail.
Mrs. Newland positively identified the man as the one in the house the night of the robbery. The watch
was not found.
April 7, 1899 – Monday, two fellows giving the name of Cooksby and Miller were arrested for
burglarizing Dr. Newland’s residence. The bonds were fixed at $500 and they were to be transferred to
Marion jail the next morning. The prisoners sawed or filed the hasp off the lock to their cell and made
their escape. The next morning searching parties scoured the country for the pair but they could not be
found. This is another bungling affair that can be charged to the Mayor and Marshall. Men of the
character of these prisoners needed close watching. Had Marshall North been as much interested in the
safe keeping of his prisoners as he was in what the new council would have to say about him, he would
have either guarded them or taken them on the evening train to Marion. Did he ever do anything right?
A burglar broke into a house in Center Point the other night and
stole a pair of pants. He didn’t steal any shoes because he knew
that Dunbar & Son were selling a large line of shoes from 42¢ to
$1.25 per pair. Shop Dunbar & Son.
Ben Cress has pleaded guilty to the charge of illegally crossing
bridges with his steam thresher. The punishment has not yet
been announced.
1900
$50.00 Reward – This amount is on deposit at the Linn Co. Bank
and will be paid to any person that will convict any party of
selling or keeping for sale any intoxicating liquors of any kind
contrary to law, After May 1
st
, 1900. This is a standing order
and means just what it says.
Center Point Telephone Exchange – Center Point has one of the
largest and best conducted telephone exchanges on the entire
Bishop line. L. C. Wilson, our popular jeweler, is the operator. Nearly every business house in town

253
and many dwellings and most all the prominent farmers have phones. There are 94 phones in operation
and by fall there will be 25 new members.
The Woodmen’s Harvest Picnic
held at St. Joe Lake yesterday
was a grand success with 3,000
people there. The management
of the picnic deserves credit for
the delightful and interesting
program. They also deserve
severe criticism for failing to
provide drinking water on the
grounds. Perhaps why
management failed to provide
water was because of the 75
kegs of beer provided and
everybody would drink beer.
1902
Mrs. Jane Stinson Beebe
Hillock, who has caused this
community more trouble than
all other law breakers
combined, has at last been
apprehended and is now behind
prison bars at Anamosa serving
out a six month sentence for
running a house of prostitution.
Wm. Hillock, Jane’s husband, is at the present time confined in the county jail at Marion, serving out a
$300 fine for selling liquor in violation of the law.
1903
According to the Cedar Rapids Times of July 6, 1876, the towns of the county were laid out or surveyed
as follows:
Marion Apr. 1839 Paris Apr. 1855 Viola June 1861
Cedar RapidsAug. 1841 SpringvilleMar. 1856 PrairieburgJuly 1867
Mt. VernonSept. 1847 Fairfax Apr. 1856 Troy Nov. 1869
Lisbon May 1851 Central CitySep. 1857 Ely June 1872
Center PointFeb. 1854 Bertram Apr. 1858 Walker July 1873
Palo June 1854 Waubeek Oct. 1859
Alburnett, Coggon and Martelle were laid out since 1876.
Prof. Bryson will give a term of lessons on violin free to any boy or girl who will secure two new pupils.
He will be at Dr. M.A. Newland’s residence Saturdays of each week and would be pleased to have
anyone interested call and see him.

254
Dress does not make the person. Nor does a clean exterior indicate a clean interior. To be well, all
organs of the body must work in harmony. Rocky Mountain Tea does this work. Sold by Geo. B.
Dunbar.
1904
It is rumored that a “certain” young man and a “certain” young lady of Center Point have violated one
of the ten commandments and as a consequence the “certain” young man has “skipped out”.
It is also rumored that two married women of this vicinity have deserted their families and went west to
live with a couple of young men from this place.
June 20, 1904 – excavation is being made for the foundation and basement of the new $10,000 school
house.
1905
The population of Center Point is now reported at 811, a 20% increase over the year 1900 population of
674.
1906
A coach load of inebriates passed through on this rail line Thursday on their way from the asylum at
Independence to the new home for inebriates at Knoxville, Iowa.
The revival meetings at the Methodist church are being largely attended and much good is being done.
Rev. Bretnall is preaching some powerful sermons and is ably assisted by Rev. Geo. Sheets.
Simon Snyder, from Snyder Bros. Nursery, has just received a silver medal from the St. Lois Exposition
for the best plums and apples furnished.
On Saturday evening will occur a box social at the G.A.R. Hall. Every lady in the city or country is
invited to bring a box. All ladies coming empty handed will please bring 10¢. Each box will contain
lunch for two and each lady’s name will be in her own box. The boxes will be sold at auction to the
highest paying gentleman. Proceeds will go toward the piano fund.
It is with much pleasure that we announce that Center Point is going to have a fine, up-to-date Boy’s
Drum Corps. There will be eight pieces, five snare drums, one base drum and two fifes. Sam Dunlap
is the organizer and leader. The instruments will soon be here and the boys will be in training.
1907
Smallpox is running riot in and near Center Point. Six homes have been quarantined: Geo. Cochran,
Henry Wormer, J. M. Bartleson, J.P. Williams Sanford Dimond, and Aaron Osborn. Every precaution
has been taken to prevent any spread of the disease should it prove to be a contagion. Farmers may feel
the utmost security and safety in doing their trading at Center Point. Scarecrow stories are unjust and
untrue and should be taken with a grain of salt.
The Knights of Pythias have leased the hall over the Yost Hardware and have fitted it up in elegant
shape for a lodge room, one of the finest in the state. They will dedicate their new hall with a three

255
course banquet for the
membership next Saturday
evening. The K. of P. Lodge
has a membership of about
ninety, composed largely of
the most progressive young
men of the city.
August 29, 1907 – The Center
Point Canning Factory began
the canning campaign at noon
today with F. E. Thorpe in
charge as foreman. This is a
much later date this year than
last year on account of the
backwardness of the spring season and a large part of the sweet corn crop had to be replanted. There are
265 acres under contract to the factory. Operations of the factory will carry well into October. There
are between 40 to 50 hands employed this season. The capacity will be 20,000 cans per each ten hour
day
1908
A big dance will be held at Yost’s Hall Friday evening. The music will be given by Brown’s Harp
Orchestra who performed the New Year’s Ball here. The dancers were so pleased this return date was
made. Dance tickets 75¢.
The five act play “The Deacon” will be given by students of the High School at the G.A.R. Opera
House Saturday evening. This play is replete with humor and the most ridiculous situations. Admission
25¢ and 15¢. Seats on sale at the post office. Proceeds to be used to finish paying for piano.
The organization of a commercial club is being talked about by a good many of our business men.
There are some money making industries that could be had by properly going after them. This should
be a great dairy country. It has been demonstrated that the finest celery can be grown on certain soils
here. Our brick and tile factory could increase its business with a club pushing it. The least a commercial
club could do was by its very existence show that the town is a live town.
C. L. Heverly states that the hardware store will donate 25 % of the receipts for the dates noted below
to the young people societies connected with the churches. June 13 will be Epworth League day. June
20 will be Christian Endeavor day for the young people of the Christian Church and June 27
th
will be
Keystone League day.
Public criticism was made last week of City Marshall, N. Lindquist or not patrolling the streets whenever
there is a public dance or occasions when there are likely to be drunks cutting loose on the street. The
fact is this kind of service is not expected or required of someone who receives only $50 salary per year.
If the citizens want him to police the steet, them they must raise his salary . This is Mr. Lindquist’s
second term as city marshal under Mayor Gilchrist, which shows that Mayor is satisfied with his work.
1910
1910 The boys in the fife and drum corp revel on Main Street after home town
favorite Johnson won the fight.

256
Saturday Mayor Pearsall had J. Stauffer
arrested for butchering calves for
market at his place on State Street. The
Mayor and Stauffer had some warm
words and his Honor handed him a
$25.00 fine. There have been others
killing calves in town and after getting
it himself, Stauffer filed information
against two others. A. M. Lampman
and Harry Wormer.
The need of a voting machine at Center
Point was abundantly demonstrated at
the election here Tuesday. The 5
member election board worked all
night and until the afternoon the next
day counting the ballots that had been cast. Like Cedar Rapids, we need voting machines here in
Center Point.
1911
The 18 children brought here last week by E. Trott, Agent for the Childrens’ Aid Society of N. Y. have
all been placed in good homes. The children ages 3 thru 16 were listed by name as well as the families
that took them.
August 3, 1911 - Electric Light Bonds Defeated. The bonds were defeated in a special election held
Monday. The vote was 135 for and 118 against which was only 53% majority and 66% was needed to
pass. Center Point does not want to be in the booster class, it wants to be in the back number class.
Everything the town has it has had to fight for against an unprogressive element. It had to fight for the
railroad, for its school house, and the canning factory against a strenuous campaign from the knockers
for several years. Its progressive citizens will not lay down.
November 16, 1911 – Fred J. Cross came over from Central City Tuesday to assure Center Point
electric lights and power if the people of the town so desired. He will simply sell current to consumers
and if there are a sufficient number, Mr. Cross will build a transmitting line from Central City to Center
Point. The work on the dam and station at Central City is progressing and it is thought now that it will
be ready to turn on the current in five weeks.
It is reported that the Farmers Elevator Company has purchased a piece of ground and plan on building.
The Journal is of the opinion that the company will make a serious mistake in building another elevator
here. There is one good elevator here, ably managed, and amply sufficient to handle all the grain
brought to this market. With two elevators here it will be a competitive war and one will go broke. The
Journal at saying this isn’t talking at random having had the competitive experience of the News-
Record. There was just as much room here for two papers as there is now for two elevators. The result
was that Barber dropped a wad of money and had to get out to keep from going broke and the Journal
just hung by the skin of its teeth. That is why we, at the Journal, are butting into this matter.
Cedar River bridge west of Center Point on Lewis Access Road circa 1910.

257
While threshing last week in Rowley, Harry and Jess Oliphant’s threshing machine was wrecked by a
charge of dynamite which some dastard had concealed in a bundle of grain. It is lucky Harry wasn’t
seriously injured or killed. There is no clue as to who placed the dynamite but it is probable that it was
done by some scoundrel who resented the Oliphant’s threshing in that neighborhood.
1912
Center Point’s residences and business houses are being wired for electricity soon to come to the city.
Center Point had its first meeting of the Commercial Club. J. F. Stauffer was elected chairman. Citizens
who wish to join are invited to attend the next meeting. They have selected as a slogan, “We like Center
Point, so will you.” With a strong club, we can make Center Point the best town in this part of the sate.
One of the most encouraging signs of the times at Center Point is the Men’s Brotherhood. This big
organization has its headquarters at the Methodist Episcopal Church. They have been holding meetings
once a month, opened by a well-known lecturer followed by refreshments, speeches, recitations and
music. The church has been packed at every such meeting.
The year 1912 has been a record breaker in the history of the good old town. Here is what has been
happening: Center Point Canning Company doubled its capacity; a pearl button factory was built and
in operation; Farmers Grain and Livestock Co. erected a large modern elevator and established a hog
market; The United Evangelical congregation built a new church; a $10,000 waterworks system is in
process of construction; an electric light and power system is almost completed; a cement block factory
is in the course of construction; Farmer Savings Bank is completing new brick bank building; a park
was laid out west of the depot; a commercial club has been organized.
Do your banking business with The Farmer Savings Bank. We pay 4 ½% of time deposits.
September 27, 1912 – Main Street for two blocks were brilliantly lighted with five strings containing
one hundred and seven incandescent electric lights, the juice being supplied from a temporary plant
installed by Mr. F. J. Cross especially for the occasion.
Oct. 25, 1912 – Mr. Whit Langsdale sold his grocery store to F. M Grubbs and Merle Strait. Mr.
Langsdale will have been in the grocery business in Center Point for 19 years. Mr. Langsdale will
retain his interest in the grocery store of Langsdale & Co., but will take no active part in the management,
leaving that to the able administration of Mr. Curt Roberts. The new firm, Grubbs & Strait, is experienced
in the trade.
1913
Mr. Frank Brody has established a button factory here and has several loads of mussel shells ready to go
to work on. Mr. Brody has a machine that cuts the buttons from the shells and these pieces are then sent
to Muscatine for finishing. He gets his shells from the Wapsi.
Attention everybody: The fire department’s ladders will no longer be loaned to anybody.
To all patron using in excess of 12 KW for house lighting during the month of March. We will present
one electric toaster – FREE!

258
Town Election Next Monday. There is to be a mayor, five councilmen, a treasurer and assessor elected.
There is one policy in which several
of the candidates are not agreed. This
policy is as to whether a pool and
billiard hall should be allowed to
operate in Center Point.
1915
There was an auto-buggy mishap on
Franklin Street when an automobile
driven by Henry Wormer had the
misfortune to collide with a buggy
driven by Charles Bentley. Other than
some minor injuries to the horse, no
damage was done.
Dr. Mark Newland will commence the erection of a fine 2 story brick building on the lots now occupied
by Hillard Bros. and Floyd and Strait barbershop.
Almost since Center Point was founded there has been an unwritten law to the effect that if one man
desires to administer a beating to another with our without provocation, this is his inalienable right as a
citizen. Now, however, this has been changed. Henceforth it will cost one dollar to administer such a
beating. This is the minimum price for this enjoyable pastime and has been fixed by law.
1916
The Farmers Grain Company has dissolved according to reports. The
final meeting was held on Saturday and dissolution was voted
unanimously.
L. Gilchrist completed the annual job of filling his icehouse on Tuesday.
The house has a capacity of 350 tons. About 23 teams were kept busy
from Friday till late Tuesday hauling the ice from the Cedar River.
The ice is cut in blocks weighing 250 lbs and 18 blocks are hauled on
a load. At this rate, nearly 135 loads would be necessary to fill the
icehouse.
Center Point has organized the Burlington Way club as a promoter of
the new road to go thru town. This route is to go from Cedar Rapids to
St. Paul. It is going to be a mighty good advertisement for our city.
Center Point is remaining neutral in the discussion whether the road
should continue north thru Urbana or Walker.
1917
New City Hall – The building, known as G. A. R. Hall Opera House, has been kindly donated to the
city. The town council immediately took action to get recommendations to improve the condition of
the building.
Farmers Elevator located on First
Street, built in 1911, closed in
1916, not torn down until late
1980s.
First car owned by a Center Pointer. Charles Manahan in his 1906 Buick.

259
Alice Community
Alice, located five miles east of Center Point, was never an
incorporated town, but in the late 1800s it was the site of a church,
cemetery, school, general store, post office, blacksmith shop, public
scales, grist mill, ice house and a few homes.
The Alice United Methodist Church, the focal point of the
community yesterday and today, is a small wood frame building that
was constructed in 1880. The church, cemetery and school were located
on land donated by the Thomas Kirk family.
In 1892 a general store was built by “Uncle Jim” Thomas and
operated by his foster son, H. B. Neighbor. After the store was built,
the community around it was named Alice in honor of Mrs. Thomas
(Alice Cushman) Kirk. Community members would gather at the
general store to visit and play checkers. There was a baseball team
around 1900 called the Alice Cubs. George Kirk, Jr. stated as a young
boy, he rode with his father on the “egg wagon”. This was an enclosed
horse-drawn wagon, loaded with groceries, tools, dry goods and a variety
of other articles from the store. In the early morning, they would drive
through the country trading merchandise to the farmer’s wives in
exchange for eggs and other farm products.
One pioneer family from the community was James and Caroline
Elliott. James farmed and was a veteran from the Mexican War. He
died in 1888. Caroline was a midwife and helped deliver over 325 babies in her lifetime (1828-1909).
Thomas Kirk’s son was George Kirk and grandson George Kirk, Jr. George Jr. operated the last grocery
business in Alice, closing the store in 1950. One tombstone in the cemetery is that of Ernest Uriah
Ralston, a veteran of the Spanish-American war (1893). Congressional records show Ralston was the
first Iowan to receive a Purple Heart.
Today all that remains is the church, cemetery and a rural neighborhood of families that share an
interest in the well-being of their neighbors and church. The church thrives on the country way of
living. The whole community has always participated in the church regardless of their church affiliation.
Even though today you may not find Alice on a map, you can be sure when asking someone where they
live; they will proudly respond “Alice.”
Jim Thomas, operated general
store 1892. He was a hunter and
trapper. Nephews said when they
were six years old they would take
their minks to Uncle Jim and he
would give them sacks of candy in
trade.
Year 1900 at Alice, a small ‘ghost town’ five miles east of Center Point. Pictured is blacksmith and
general store with egg wagon sitting in between.

260
Allen “Tone” Dunbar home at 903 Summit Street in 1910.
1910 photo of home at 321 Summit Street. The building was built in 1866 as the Methodist Episcopal Church.
In 1906 the church was turned into a home by L. L. Gilchrist, the lumberyard owner. The roof was raised to add
the second floor.

261
Houser and Gitchell homes at 911 and 921 Franklin Street, circa 1911.
The Dr. Mark Newland home at 715 Summit Street in 1910.

262
Les Smiley Store and living quarters.
Built in 1888.
l-r: Wm. Crown, Ike Arments, F. D.
Condon, John Allbones and Robert
Blankenship. Mrs. Smiley barely visible
on top of stairway.
Easter Celebration circa 1910 at Floyd’s Crossing.
Floyd’s Crossing was a popular gathering place down by the river. On Easter , weather permitting, it was
a custom for the menfolk to gather for an afternoon of food and spirits. Floyd’s Crossing was named after Jacob
Floyd who settled here along the river in 1852. According to the 1878 Linn County History Book, it was a
beautiful and romantic residence set on 198 acres on the bank of the Cedar River. We also surmise this area was
called Blue Banks as shown on old Linn County maps. (Note: Jacob Floyd is Gary Hein’s descendant.)
Pictured above on the blanket l-r: Ike Street, Mark Fairbanks, Whit Langsdale, unknown. Back row l-r:
unknown, Emery McArthur, Dr. Charles Yost, Lewis Pearsall, Rip Dunbar, unknown, Plimp Dye, Bill Rambo, and
Steve Mowbry.

263
Stanley Primmer Barbershop on Main Street. Pictured in 1983 is Stan trimming a customer.
A crew laying drainage tile in a field near Center Point. Notice it was all done by hand. Picture taken by Fairbanks
Studios, Center Point, Walker, Iowa. People are unidentified. Picture submitted by Doug & Nancy Klima.

264
The “Barn” apartments in the 400 block of Water Street in 1954. Today in
2004, there are six apartments in this building. In the 1930s they were known as
the Coffee Stables. It is purported to have housed some prize horses that were
the envy of others.
4-H member, Phyllis (Hand) Jones
demonstrating “How to Iron Rayon
and Silk”.
1954 Willing Workers 4-H Club
Jeanette (Matheny) Haars giving a dem-
onstration “How to Make a Self Belt”.
Ribbon cutting ceremony for the opening of the renovated Depot Museum in June
2000. Center Point Community Historical Society raised money to renovate the
south portion of the depot and arranged with the owners, Linn County Conserva-
tion Department, to use it for the Historical Museum. l-r: Philip Andersen, Vice
Pres.; John Stuelke, Mayor; Mary Cook, Pres.; and Girl Scouts Amber Hepker
and Eva Andersen.

265
Then and Now
Above is Franklin Street, looking north at the Washington Street intersection, 1910.
Below is the same view in 2004.

266
Pictured at left, on the SW corner
of State and Main Street, is H. M.
Rowley and Dunbar Dry Goods
Stores. Built in 1890, this two
story building burned to the ground
in 1905.
Pictured at right is the building that
replaced the above building. The
store on the left is Omar Leonard
Haberdasher and the right is Miller
& Fross Clotheirs. Pictured l-r: C.
S. Leonard, Vern Miller, C. F.
Miller, Wes Fross and Dr. Mark
Newland. Photo taken in 1906.
The same spot in 2004. Other busi-
nesses that occupied the site before
it was torn down included, on the
left side, Roberts & Hoff Grocery,
Hinge Pin Parlor, Deke Graves
Grocer, Don Elliott Grocery, and
McNiel Grocery. On the right side
on the corner was Tone Dunbar Dry
Goods, Everett Williams Dry
Goods, and Hoefle Chiropractor.

267
Above is a view during the winter looking north from State Street bridge in 1908.
Below is the same view in 2004.

268
Above is the Dr. Francis M. Yost house, circa 1910. This house, located at 520 Main Street, was built during the
Civil War. Pictured in front is his wife, Charlotte. After the Yost family lived there, this house served as an
apartment building until 1966 when it was purchased by Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Andersen and converted into a
private residence. In all, six physicians have either grown up in this house or have lived here. These include
Francis, Bartley and Charles Yost. In the late 40s, Dr. Bogle rented and apartment here. From the mid-60s until
present, Dr. Kenneth Andersen has lived here, and his youngest son, Kenneth M., grew up to be a physician and
practices in Des Moines. If dentists are included, the number grows to seven with the addition of Dr. Andersen’s
son, Philip. Pictured below is Dr. Kenneth and Marilyn Andersen in front of their historic house in 2004.

269
Above in Main Street looking north from State Street in 1928. Below is the same view in 2004.

270
Above is Main Street looking south from Washington Street in 1911. Below is the same view, 2004.

271
Above is Summit Street looking north from Green Street, circa 1910. Below is same view in 2004.

272
Above is Summit Street looking south from Washington Street, April 30, 1907. Notice the kerosene street light.
Below is same view in 2004.

273
Above is Main Street looking SW in the 800 block. Photo taken October, 1963, when the street was being
paved. Below photo is same view in 2004.

274
Above is Main Street looking north from State Street in October 1963 when street was being paved.
Below is same view in 2004.

275
Right is Main Street looking NW
at the 800 block. Picture is Water-
melon Day, September 12, 1913.
Right is the same view during the pav-
ing project in October 1963.
Left is the same view in 2004.

276
Above is looking north on Franklin Street at the Iowa Street intersection in 1940. Below is the same view in 2004.

Memorial Day in Center Point 1913. Panoramic photo taken by Fairbanks Studio from one corner of Main Street, almost 360 degrees back to the same corner.
Center Point G. A. R. members and their families at a reunion in 1910. Photo taken in front of the High School.

Center Point, Iowa - Celebrating 150 Years (2004)

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Center Point, Iowa - Celebrating 150 Years (2004)

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