Category: History

A little bit of research on the Memorial Swinging Bridge raised questions about the man who built it, R. E. Nutt.

First, a testament to this man’s acumen.

Photo courtesy Pulaski County Public Library

Bridgemeister.com lists sixteen suspension bridges that have been built in the State of Indiana. Additional suspension bridges were found on the BridgeHunter.com website, bringing the number to twenty-one. These lists carry all bridges, those still in use and those lost to us.

Mr. Nutt Built a Bridge That Would Last

Memorial is one of twelve still standing. Several bridges are not dated as to construction, but it appears Memorial is one of the oldest.

The oldest still in use, in Turkey Run State Park, was constructed in 1918. Following damage in the April 2013 flood, “everything is new except the main cables.” The bridge in Foster Park, Fort Wayne, was built in 1920. No significant refurbishing was noted in the online databases. Three of the standing bridges are not dated, but two of the undated bridges appear to be relatively recent in construction. The others were built in 1966, 1988, 1994, and the 2000s.

An Extra Piece Of Information

The information from Bridgemeister.com and BridgeHunter.com has been encapsulated in a database on our website, HERE.

Local News Coverage of Mr. Nutt during Construction

The local newspapers covering the idea for and the construction of the bridge said little about Mr. Nutt, even misnaming him (twice). This was 1923, and he had been elected three times to serve as County Surveyor, serving from 1917 through 1922, but they didn’t get it right. For some reason, they didn’t focus on the engineer, the builder, a local man.

With the exception of mentioning his name in the bidding and construction process, these snippets are all that were gleaned about Mr. Nutt from local coverage in 1923.

• Winamac Republican, March 1, 1923: New Foot-Bridge To Span River: “Plans and estimates have been prepared by Herbert Nutt, an engineer, of Indianapolis, and former Harrison township resident, and these plans will be open to inspection to those at the meeting tonight.”
• Pulaski County Democrat, March 9, 1923: Permanent Foot Bridge to Park Across the River: “Plans for a bridge have been drawn by R. E. Nutt, who estimates that the structure can be erected for about $2,000.”
• Winamac Republican, March 8, 1923: Town Help for New Foot-Bridge: “Last week’s paper stated that the plans and drawings were made by Hubert Nutt, which was an error, the plans having been made by Former County Surveyor R. E. Nutt”

Mr. Nutt’s Commitment to Memorial

In March 1923, Mr. Nutt appeared before the Winamac Park Association with a proposal to construct a permanent suspension footbridge over the Tippecanoe River. The bridge would connect the Association-owned river park with the Town’s recently-purchased artesian well park. He estimated the bridge would “not cost far in excess of $2,000.” The Park Association made a decision to approach the Town of Winamac to share costs on a 50/50 basis. The town agreed to participate, so long as their share did not exceed $1,000.

Originally, the bridge was conceived as a point of pedestrian travel from one park to the other. The purpose was to secure for the town a first-class tourist destination. As plans progressed, the bridge was also to become a memorial to Pulaski county soldiers of all wars, thus the name, Memorial. With that decision, the Town, the Park Association and the Kiwanis Club determined that bridge construction should be complete by June 1.

The consortium asked Mr. Nutt to prepare specifications, and bids were let. At least four local contractors were expected to submit bids, but in the end, only one was received. Mr. Nutt’s bid was for $3,197, considerably above the projected cost. Mr. Nutt explained the price of steel and cement had jumped since the specifications and estimates had been presented.

The matter of letting the contract was tabled to allow the Park Board Association to meet with the Kiwanis Club and make a plan. Before that meeting, the Park Association asked the community for assistance. They immediately sold $1,600 in Association stocks, which was enough allow the plan to go forward. Before the bridge was complete, they would raise the sales to $2,300.

Mr. Nutt secured the contract on April 6. The contract stipulated completion of the bridge in time for a Fourth of July celebration, and the date of completion was moved back one month, from June 1 to July 1. To meet his contractual obligations, Mr. Nutt traveled to Chicago the next week to secure the earliest possible shipment of materials.

Construction began in May 1923 and was completed before July 4, 1923.

Not only was this project completed short of three months from receiving the contract, but the bridge itself has stood for 98 years as a testament to Mr. Nutt’s engineering expertise.

The next installment will focus on Mr. Nutt’s professional background.

Credits

CONTRIBUTING TO THE PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL HISTORY OF R. E. NUTT: Janet Onken, Pulaski County Genealogist; Jon Frain, Frain Mortuary; Jim Phillips, former resident of Pulaski County, who gathered relevant articles from the Winamac Republican and the Pulaski County Democrat; Russell E, Nutt Obituary from the Kokomo Tribune, June 17, 1941 and from a local paper; Errett Frain Nutt Obituary from the Kokomo Tribune, May 13, 1995; John Weaver (formerly) and Crystal Weaver (currently) with INDOT; Pulaski County Public Library.

The following are articles from local newspapers that can be found at the Public Library. These articles were gathered together by Jim Phillips, a native of Pulaski County. Jim manages a Facebook page, “Stalking My Hometown.” Find that page here.

Pulaski County Democrat Aug 9 1934, Microfilm

An ordinance was passed setting a fine of $25 as the penalty for jumping upon, climbing the cables or otherwise abusing the Memorial suspension footbridge across the river. Lads old enough to know better have been observed in unnecessary antics on the structure, and the ordinance was made of record so they can be handled in court. It is published in full elsewhere in this paper.

AN ORDINANCE

PROHIBITING CERTAIN ACTS IN CONNECTION WITH THE SUSPENSION MEMORIAL BRIDE OVER THE TIPPECANOE RIVER AT WINAMAC, PROVIDING PENALTIES FOR THE VIOLATION THEREOF, AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.

SECTION I. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE TOWN OF WINAMAC, INDIANA, That it shall be unlawful for any person to shake by grasping the cable or hand-rail, jump up and down upon or otherwise cause unnecessary vibration of, the suspension Memorial Bridge over the Tippecanoe River, connecting the two parks owned by the town of Winamac, Indiana.

SECTION II. Any person violating this Ordinance shall, upon conviction, be fined in any sum not exceeding Twenty-five Dollars ($25.00).

SECTION III. An emergency existing for the immediate taking effect of this Ordinance, the same shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage.

JOHN C.  SHANK, FRANK H. KING, THEODORE H. DUNKIN, WILLIAM D. PATTISON, JESSE CLESTER, Board of Trustees, Town of Winamac. Attest: T.D. HOWE, Town Clerk, August 9.

Winamac Republican Aug 9 1934, Microfilm: No More Shimmying Suspension Bridge

At the August meeting of the Town Board Monday night an emergency ordinance was passed making it “unlawful for any person to shake by grasping the cable or hand rail jump up and down upon or otherwise cause unnecessary vibration of the suspension Memorial bridge over the Tippecanoe river.” Violators will be fined not to exceed $25.

This is a good move on the part of the Town Board as numerous boys and young men have been in the habit of indulging in the dangerous practice of shaking the bridge.

The following are articles from local newspapers that can be found at the Public Library. These articles were gathered together by Jim Phillips, a native of Pulaski County. Jim manages a Facebook page, “Stalking My Hometown.” Find that page here.

Pulaski County Democrat Jul 5 1923, Microfilm: Crowds Attend 4^th Celebration

Observance of National Holiday in Winamc Big Success – Memorial Bridge Dedicated – Culver Officials Conduct Formal Exercises – Display of Fireworks Most Elaborate Ever Seen Here – Yesterday’s celebration of the Fourth in Winamac was one of the most successful affairs of the kind ever held here. The crowd was one of the largest ever seen here on such an occasion, the weather was ideal, the program was carried out with but few disappointments, not an accident marred the day’s events, and there was no disturbance of any kind.

The parking space in the Association park was literally covered with automobiles; hundreds of cars were parked in town and in the town park at the artesian well, the occupants going to the big park by way of the new suspension bridge, and during the evening the roads were lined with cars bringing in people for the night fireworks.

The dedication of the new bridge as a memorial to Pulaski county soldiers who served in the wars gave to the occasion a patriotic touch of deep significance. In the presence of a group of gray haired veterans of the Civil War, of a number of Gold Star Mothers and of an assemblage of veterans of the World War, Major General Gignilliat of Culver Military Academy delivered a brief address to a huge crowd that assembled near the east end of the bridge. He spoke feelingly of the part Indiana has taken in the wars, dwelling upon the fact that the first soldiers to lose their lives in both the Civil and World War were Indiana men. He characterized the bridge as particularly appropriate as a memorial to men who have served their country. A bridge, he declared, is a mark of the progress of civilization. The country’s ideals in its various wars have been in support of this same civilization. He referred, too, to the fact that the country’s first battle, that skirmish at Concord, was at the site of a bridge.

Following his address, which the general closed with the formal words of dedication, the veil which covered the memorial tablet on that end of the bridge was pulled aside. Then followed a roll call of Pulaski county men who lost their lives in the World War, some comrade in the American Legion answering to each name with the words: “Died in the service of his country.”

Culver cadets who accompanied the general fired a volley, taps were blown, and there was an impressive salute to the colors ending with the national salute from the one-pound cannon that the Culver officers had brought.

A line of decorated automobiles, headed by the band in a bunting bedecked truck, formed a procession on the downtown streets in the forenoon and moved to the park, where a large part of the assemblage gave close attention to a scholarly address by Congressman S.E. Cook of Huntington. Judge Cook indulged in little spread-eagle oratory such as characterizes many Fourth of July addresses, but confined himself to object lessons as based upon the pages of history. It was a talk full of information and sound logic.

The Winamac band, under the direction of R.E. Wilson, rendered numerous concerts throughout the day. There was dancing in the park pavilion, and hundreds of people enjoyed a plunge in the Tippecanoe in the vicinity of the new bath house.  The ball game afforded the pleasure to a crowd that filled the grandstand. The refreshment stands, operated by Winamac business men for the benefit of the park association in its efforts to raise funds for further improvement of the park, were overtaxed to suppfly food and soft drinks. The size of the crowd so far exceeded expectations that the refreshment supply was exhausted late in the evening.

The display of fireworks was by far the most elaborate every attempted here.  The committee of business men purchased a complete outfit from a reputable company, with the various pieces numbered as to the order of firing. There were numerous aerial bombs and rockets, some of them carrying tiny parachutes supporting colored lights. Several “set” pieces brought expressive “ah-h-s” from the crowd. The display was made along the south side of the ball park, with the people massed both within and without the enclosure.

Winamac Republican Jul 5 1923, Microfilm: The 4^th Fittingly Observed Here In Winamac

Ideal Weather Prevailed And Enthusiastic Crowd Present – New Footbridge Dedicated With Ceremony – Winamac celebrated the Fourth by the dedication of the new suspension boot-bridge leading from the town park to the park across the river. A mammoth crowd was present to hear the dedication address by Brig. Gen. Gignilliat of Culver Military Academy, former state commander of the American Legion, and to witness the firing of the salute to the fallen soldiers by the naval guns brought by cadets from the academy. The foot-bridge was declared by visitors as up to expectations and a fitting monument to the country’s dead and living soldiers and sailors.

Contractor Nutt, in spite of early delays had the bridge entirely completed for the occasion, and it was duly decorated with flags and bunting for the holiday.

The weather was ideal for a celebration and crowds arrived in time for the auto parade at 10:30, lead by the Winamac band in uniform.

Congressman Samuel E. Cook, of Huntington, delivered the address of the morning at the new park bandstand, following a band concert. He congratulated the county on the appropriate memorial to the soldiers, and spoke of the sacrifices that the men of revolutionary days and during the later wars, who fought for their country, and urged his hearers not to forget their deeds of valor and sacrifice.

A second band concert was held at noon before the ball game. Winamac in the ball game with Royal Centre came from behind the visitors after a bad fourth inning and finally won the fray by a score of 7 to 6.

Winamac is showing up a pretty steady aggregation this season, and with Huddleston and Kroft as the stand-by battery is developing strong and aggressive.

In the fourth Huddleston was not at his best, but stuck to the ship with dogged pep, even with the odds against him. R.C. scored in the first frame, and in the fourth four tallies slipped across the plate before the lid could be clamped down, the bases having been filled by the visitors. After the fourth Huddleston held the visitors to one score, which came in the first of the ninth inning. This tally was squeezed in after two were down, when two visitors were walked, the first scoring from second on a bingle. A third out saved the game from further trouble.

Winamac’s main doings came in the fatal seventh, when Huddleston started with a two-bagger, Brown and Gilsinger also slammed out two-base swats and Kroft and Fites added to the hit column. Four scores were garnered during this frame. Winamac had previously made two tallies in other innings. The locals scored again in the eight, giving them the coveted.

The dedication ceremonies at 4:30 o’clock were marked with dignity throughout, the roll of those who had given their lives being called as part of the ceremonies, followed by taps and the salute of 21 guns.

In the evening, the program started with another band concert, from seven till eight o’clock, and at eight o’clock the fire works display was given on the ball field.

The fireworks was the biggest and most elaborate display ever seen in Winamac, and sets a mark for future celebration. The display included many fancy and novel illuminating bombs, double and triple bombs and a novel aeroplane fireworks novelty that brought a hand from the mammoth crowd. The biggest crowd that ever witnessed a fireworks display in Winamac, saw the exhibition.

No accident marred the day’s festivities, several deputies being on hand to direct the movements of the autos in the park, and prevent accidents.

Pulaski County Democrat Jul 12 1923, Microfilm: Tourist Likes Camp Site At Winamac

M.C. Larson, a tourist traveling from Fresno, Calif., to Columbus, Ohio, camped in the Winamac park below the artesian well Friday and Saturday. In conversation with Winamac citizens he declared that the Tippecanoe river, the well and the general conditions combine to make the camping site the finest he has found in all his travels. He added that the new Memorial bridge increases the attractive appearance of the park.

Winamac Republican Jul 26 1923, Microfilm: New Memorial Suspension Foot-Bridge

Here is the first published picture of the new suspension foot-bridge extending across the Tippecanoe river from the foot of Main street near the artesian well to the Winamac park. A winding path leads from the well to the bridge entrance. The bridge was dedicated to Pulaski county soldiers and sailors on July 4. This picture was taken by H.O. Crim, Winamac photographer. The view is from a position of the bridge structure.

The following are articles from local newspapers that can be found at the Public Library. These articles were gathered together by Jim Phillips, a native of Pulaski County. Jim manages a Facebook page, “Stalking My Hometown.” Find that page here.

Pulaski County Democrat Jun 21 1923, Microfilm: Big Display of Fireworks on 4^th

Committee Buys Elaborate Set, to be Fired in Ball Park – Gold Star Mothers Called – Those Whose Sons Lost Lives in World War Service Asked to Attend Dedication of Memorial Bridge – Following a lapse of several Fourth celebrations in Winamac without fireworks, arrangements have been made this year for what is expected to be the most elaborate display of pyrotechnics ever shown here. The committee in charge has purchased a complete display, to be set off as outlined in a pre-arranged schedule.

The display will be fired along the south side of the base ball park, thus enabling spectators to use the grandstand. The program includes a band concert preceding the fireworks.

Upon request of Brigadier General Gignilliat, who is to dedicate the memorial Bridge, an invitation is being issued to all Gold Star Mothers of the county to attend the exercises in a body. These are the mothers of the men who lost their lives, either in battle or by disease, while in U.S. service during the World War. Letters are being mailed to those whose addresses can be secured, and it is the desire of the committee to omit no one; hence the request that addresses be mailed in without delay. The presence of veterans of the Civil War is also desired.

Since the Culver officials are to take part in a celebration at that place during the forenoon, they will be unable to reach Winamac until about 3 o’clock in the afternoon. For that reason the program has been so arranged that the ball game will take place before the dedication exercises. The program as now arranged appears elsewhere in this paper.

Winamac Republican Jun 21 1923, Microfilm: Fire-Works for Fourth of July Best Ever Here

Committee for Night Display Announces High Grade Assortment Ordered for Celebration at Winamac – The Fourth of July celebration at Winamac will have as a climax the finest display of fireworks ever brought to town, members of the committee state. So people of the county and other communities are urged to come early and stay late.

The celebration will open at ten o’clock in the morning with an auto parade, with prizes for the three best decorated cars. The crowd will then go to the park, where Congressman Cook will deliver the patriotic address of the day, at eleven o’clock.

At noon a band concert has been scheduled at the park during the dinner hour. Right after dinner the baseball game is on the schedule. The bathing beach will also be open to the public after dinner, and dancing will also be in full swing at the park pavilion, with a special orchestra engaged for the day, both afternoon and evening.

The permanent refreshment stand is completed at the park and the new suspension foot-bridge, which will be dedicated to the soldiers and sailors of all wars, will be completed in plenty of time for the Fourth.

The dedication exercises will be held at three o’clock in the afternoon. General Gignilliat of Culver Military Academy, with the officers and scouts and woodcraft boys are to be present, and Gen. Gignilliat and staff will have charge of the dedication ceremonies. Several naval guns will be brought by truck to Winamac, to use in the ceremony.

Pulaski County Democrat Jun 28 1923, Microfilm: Program for the Dedication Ceremony

Celebrate the 4^th in Winamac – Come and Enjoy the Day in the Beautiful Association Park – See and Use the New Memorial Suspension Bridge to be Dedicated That Day to Pulaski County Soldiers in All Wars

Outline Of Program

• 10:00 – Parade, led by American Legion. Prizes for best decorated cars.
• 11:00 – Address by Congressman Cook, from speaker’s stand in park.
• 12 to 1:00 – Dinner and band concert.
• 1:00 to 3:00 – Base ball game, contests, bathing dancing.
• 3:00 – Dedication of Memorial Bridge by Brigadier General Gignilliat and staff of Culver Military Academy.
• Roll Call – Service Men.
• Volley – Escort.
• Taps.
• To the Colors.
• National Salute.
• 4:00 to 7:00 – Bathing, Dancing, Playground.
• 7:00 to 8:00 – Band Concern.
• 8:00 – Fireworks. Finest display ever shown in Winamac, to be fired in front of base ball grand stand.

Bathing suits and private lockers for rent in new bath house. Also free bath houses.

Refreshments of all kinds on the grounds.

Pulaski County Democrat Jun 28 1923, Microfilm: All Set for the 4^th Celebration

Plans About Complete for Observance of Nations Birthday – Footbridge Will Be Ready – Automobiles Asked to Line Up for Forenoon Parade – New Park Equipment in Use the Coming Sunday – Final touches are now being put to preparations for the Fourth celebration in Winamac with indications that it will be an affair fully appropriate to proper observance of the Nation’s birthday.

Work on the new Memorial Suspension footbridge is now being completed. Hanging from heavy steel cables suspended over sturdy iron and concrete towers on either side of the river, well above high water mark yet easily reached by inclined approaches, it is recognized as a structure as attractive as it is out of the ordinary.

The dedication of the bridge, to be held at 3 o’clock under the auspices of officials from Culver military academy, will consist of the unveiling of the memorial tablets, followed by appropriate military exercises.

A request is being made that all citizens of Winamac who drive cars, and all others who may wish to do so, enter the parade in the forenoon. The more cars that are decorated the better. They are to assemble on the court house square. The parade will end at the ball park with Congressman Cook’s address will be delivered.

Following their usual custom on national holidays, the Winamac business houses will be closed all day on the Fourth. This does not include garages, eating houses and drug stores, and the bakeries will be open until noon and after 5 o’clock in the evening.

As far as now known, the program as printed on another page will be carried out as planned. The ball game will be between the Royal Center and Winamac teams.

Advertising matter has been scattered over all adjacent towns, and numerous surrounding newspapers mention the forthcoming Winamac celebration with apparent expectancy. No other celebration has been announced in this locality except on at Rensselaer, so the Winamac park will be the mecca for people coming from every direction.

The new equipment just installed in the park will be in full use on and after Sunday of this week. The refreshment stand and new bath house will be in operation, the new bathing suits are here, and Manager Harry Kistler states that every possible effort will be made to help people injoy themselves. The floor in the pavilion is being polished fo the dances that are to be held week-day evenings and holidays.

Winamac Republican Jun 28 1923. Microfilm: Full Day for July Fourth is on the Program

New Foot Bridge Ready For Occasion – Fireworks on Hand – Royal Centre For Ball Game – All plans are set for the Fourth of July celebration which will be held in Winamac next Wednesday, starting with the parade of decorated autos from the court house about 10:30 o’clock, going to th epark for the address of Congressman Cook.

All Winamac stores will be closed for the day, except drug stores, eating houses, etc. and Winamac business and professional men are on the schedule to sell hot dog sandwiches, ice cold pop and similar delicacies at the park stands, as the returns from the stands will be turned over to the park association for the suspension bridge fund.

Winamac bakeries will be closed from 12 to 5 o’clock on the Fourth.

The principal ceremony of the day will be the dedication of the new foot-bridge in memory of the soldiers and sailors of all wars, from Pulaski county. The detailed program for the dedication is given in the program below. Thirty members of the American Legion from Star City and other legion members from Medaryville and Monterey will join with the post at Winamac in attending the dedication.

• The Program: Parade – 10:30 A. M. – forms at court house, and arrives at Park at 11:00 a. m.
• Address 11:00 a. m. by Congressman Cook at park.
• Dinner 12:00 noon.
• Ball Game 1:00 p. m. at park.
• 3 p. m. Address and unveiling of tablet at Memorial Bridge by Gen. Gignilliat of Culver Academy.
• Foll call of service men.
• Volley by escort.
• Taps.
• To The Colors.
• National Salute.
• 7 p. m. – Band concert.
• 8 p. m. – Grand display of fireworks.

The fireworks display for the night arrived on Wednesday and has been found to be far the best ever brought to Winamac. The fireworks will be held in front of the ball park grandstand, from the ball field. The fireworks program is as follows:

The display opens with four 9-inch salutes. Then follow: sheets of Erin; silver mist; birds of paradise; golden stars; the National Flower; the American comet; Our National Colors; Heart of France; American Legion Poppy (forming the letters); Vesuvius; Indiana State Flower; The Golden Poppy; Rose of Heaven; Star Clusters; Violets; Snowflakes; Sensation (a 1923 novelty); Pride of the North; colored repeating bombs; Angel’s Breath; Pansy Bed; Shower of Emeralds; Piff Poff Puff; Parachute Searchlight Shell; The Wall Flower; Diamond Stars; The Rainbow; Silver Stars; Scarlet Nasturtiums; The Diamond Necklace; Red Fire Illumination; Magnesium Wheel; Egyptian Pyramids; Silver Crystals; Liberty Fountains; Ruffled Monster; Giant Spirals; Maid of the Mist; Falls of the Yosemite; Machine Gun Fire, etc.

The free bathing beach and public and private bath house will be ready for visitors on the Fourth.

Winamac Republican Jun 28 1923, Microfilm

Warfield Knebel Post No. 336 of Star City American Legion have been invited to participate in the Fourth of July celebration to be held at Winamac at which time the dedication of the Memorial Suspension Bridge to all the soldiers of the county will take place.

Pulaski County Democrat Jul 5 1923, Microfilm

The Home Guards, an organization of boys from 10 to 14 years of age, just recently organized, were in the park Monday afternoon looking after a flower bed which they have placed along the river bank just north of the new foot bridge. They also have a flower box at the west side of the court house. The organization has twelve members and is under the auspices of the Missionary society of the M.E. church.

The following are articles from local newspapers that can be found at the Public Library. These articles were gathered together by Jim Phillips, a native of Pulaski County. Jim manages a Facebook page, “Stalking My Hometown.” Find that page here.

Pulaski County Democrat Apr 12 1923, Microfilm: Let Contract For Park Footbridge

Directors Accept Bid of R.E. Nutt For The Work – To Be Finished By July 1 – Cinder Driveway, Band Stand and Refreshment Stand in Plans for Further Immediate Improvement – The contract for the construction of the proposed footbridge across the river, from the park below the artesian well to the Association park, was let last Friday night to R.E. Nutt. His was the only bid, at $3,197.

The matter had been held in abeyance pending the sale of sufficient stock in the park association to provide money for the improvement. Recent sales of stock to the amount of $2,300 were reported, which, together with the $1,000 previously agreed to be paid by the town council, placed the directors of the organization in position to close the contract.

The bridge is to be completed by July 1, according to the contract. The Winamac Cement Products Co. is to do the concrete work, and expects to begin operations as soon as the river falls enough to permit.

The bridge is to be of the suspension type, 200 feet long and five in width. A steel tower about thirty feet high, embedded in concrete base, will be erected on each side of the river. Two steel cables, each an inch and a half diameter, will be stretched from tower to tower, the ends attached to concrete anchors embedded in the earth about fifty feet back of each tower. The floor will be suspended from the cables, at a height well above danger from high water. Long inclines at each side, held in place by concrete walls reaching back as far as the cable anchors, will afford an easy climb to the bridge level.

The directors of the association are making other plans for improvement of the park during the coming summer. Solomon Stout has been re-engaged as custodian and will oversee the work to be done. Some trimming has been done in the upper end of the park, and some filling is to be done at a gully in the lower part. A notice elsewhere in this paper invites the dumping of rubbish at that point, under the custodian’s directions.

Cinders have been secured as top dressing for a driveway to extend from the entrance just east of the ball park to a point near the park house. This I to be made wide enough for two cars.

He material heretofore used for the temporary bridge is to be utilized in the construction of a permanent band stand and a refreshment stand. The swimming hold is also to come in for further attention, with the addition of more spring boards and steps. It is hoped that further playground equipment can also be added.

Winamac Republican Apr 12 1923, Microfilm: Bridge will Form Soldier Memorial

Span To Park Will Be Dedicated On Fourth Of July With Celebration For Occasion – The Winamac Park Association at a special meeting last Friday awarded the contract for the new suspension foot-bridge over the river, to R.E. Nutt, at $3,197. Mr. Nutt went to Chicago this week to secure earliest possible shipment of the material, in order to have the bridge complete for a public dedication of the structure as a memorial to the Pulaski county soldiers of all wars at a celebration planned to be held on the Fourth of July.

The first big event of the park will be held on that day, for the coming season. Added equipment for the park is to be ready by that time. A graded cinder drive from the road entrance to the park will be built about twenty feet wide, enabling two rows of cars to pass. The drive will be extended through the park as far as the bathing bench this year, and the low swail [sic] southeast of the ball park will be filled in. People who have trash to dispose of are urged to have it taken to this swail [sic] where Supt. Stout of the park will direct the dumping.

A band stand will be erected, with lumber remaining from last year’s foot-bridge, and a permanent refreshment stand will also be built before the opening of this season at the park.

Much increase in bathing facilities will also be made, with two more diving boards added at various depths, and the officials of the park have arranged to have the gravel and stones dredged from the beach and the depths marked for bathers. This will leave sand bottom at the beach.

Steps to the water edge will also be built and a number of seats will be placed on the bank for visitors to see the water sports.

Winamac Republican Apr 12 1923, Microfilm: “Memorial Bridge” A Good Name

The directors of the local park association have decided to dedicate the new footbridge soon to span the beauty river of Indiana as a memorial to the boys of Pulaski county who have fought for their country in the Civil, Spanish and World Wars. A tablet will be placed on the structure to bring to mind the sacrifice of the soldier boys from Pulaski county. Let the children who cross the bridge for healthful play, pause and remember the sacrifices of the soldier, which keep this country a place of opportunity for those of humble birth as well as those of far famed lineage.

Pulaski County Democrat May 3 1923, Microfilm: Footbridge Work Starts

Work has started on the footbridge to be erected from the park below the artesian well to the Association park across the river. Contractor R.E. Nutt is not engaged in erecting his false work, and hopes to have material on the ground for permanent work within a short time. The bridge is to be about where the temporary structure was located last year.

Winamac Republican May 10 1923, Microfilm: Overall Parade Coming Tuesday

Kiwanis Members Will Don Working Garb And Turn River Park Into Ideal Camping And Picnic Site – Winamac Kiwanis club members have orders to show up at next Tuesday noon luncheon, attired in overalls and armed with rake and shovel to spend the afternoon in cleaning up the park near the artesian well and in constructing table and ovens for tourists at the beauty camping spot nearby.

The town board has been designated as the boss gang to tell what is needed to be done, and before the sun sets next Tuesday evening the park is scheduled to look like an English lord’s estate.

The holes will be filled and the place will be leveled off for the season. The tennis courts will also be put in condition on that day and Jim Dilts, president of the tennis club states that racket enthusiasts will be welcomed on that afternoon to assist in that work.

It is understood that the town will erect a comfort station in the park on this side of the river, for the accommodation of auto campers and park visitors. Winamac is already listed on the state park board map as possessing a tourists camping ground.

The board of directors of the Kiwanis club has worked out a plan to finance all public enterprises of the town for the coming season, by arranging a budget to be contributed to by the business and professional people, and other citizens of the place.

A letter was sent to practically every business place in town on Tuesday telling of the plan and a committee composed of all the directors plan to call on the various citizens soon in carrying out the plan.

The budget will include an appropriation for the bad concerts, Fourth of July celebration, Old Settlers’ Picnic Day, Farmers’ Annual Picnic and other attractions that may be taken hold of by the town. The plan is arranged to avoid numerous solicitations for each enterprise as the time approaches for its financing.

Pulaski County Democrat May 24 1923, Microfilm: Fit Park For Use By Auto Tourists

Kiwanis Club Members Spend Afternoon at Cleaning and Building – New Footbridge Progresses – Work on Permanent Structure Across River Well Under Way – Attention to Tennis Courts Near Artesian Well – The city park just below the artesian well was given a general clean-up and put in shape for use by auto tourists Tuesday afternoon by members of the Kiwanis club, who armed themselves with rakes, shovels and other implements following the regular weekly luncheon at noon and went to the park as a group of volunteer workmen.

The results accomplished, besides a collection of blistered hands and sore backs, included clearing away the winter’s collection of dead leaves, the filling of small holes, the erection of combination dining tables and seats for the use of picnic parties, construction of two camp stoves, work on a cinder walk leading from the well to the permanent footbridge now under construction, and rehabilitation of the tennis courts.

Contractor Nutt and a crew of men are actively engaged on the new foot-bridge. The two steel towers have arrived and have been put in position, one on either side of the river. Workmen are now building the concrete abutments surrounding the towers, the steel cable from which the bridge will be suspended is here, the false work is in place for the erection of the floor, and there appears little doubt that the bridge will be ready for use well before the Fourth of July.

The cleaning of the park fitted well into a program of general town cleaning that was approved by the Kiwanis club at its meeting the week previous. At that time Dr. W.H. Thompson, as town health officer, reminded the club that last year a representative of the state board of health, after an inspection of Winamac streets and alleys, declared that the town was second in cleanliness to only one other in the state. The doctor voiced an appeal to citizens that sincere efforts be made to push Winamac into the front rank during the present year.

The work of Marshal Johnson in keeping clean the brick streets of Winamac was also commended, and a unanimous vote of approval for his efforts was extended by the club.

Pulaski County Democrat Jun 7 1923, Microfilm: Celebration of 4^th In Winamac

Three Organizations To Join In Monster Program – Dedicate Memorial Bridge – Structure to be Inscribed to the Memory of al Pulaski County Men Who Have Served in the Wars – Formal opening of the new suspension foot bridge across the river below the artesian well, which is to be dedicated on that day to Pulaski county men who have served the country as soldiers or sailors, is to be part of a monster Fourth of July celebration now being planned.

The celebration is to be under the joint management of the Winamac Park Association, the American Legion and the Kiwanis Club. The park association is financing the bridge and other park improvements, and is to be in general control of the day’s events and of the concessions. The Legion is to have charge of the parade and the dedicatory exercises, while the Kiwanians will look after the contests, the fireworks and the music.

Pulaski County has no permanent memorial of any kind to its sons who served the country in time of peril. It has been therefore resoled, by the citizens who are sponsoring the bridge, that its heavy steel towers and cables, backed by immense concrete abutments and spanning the Tippecanoe from shore to shore, form an appropriate emblem of the united strength upon with the welfare of the nation rests, and that the bridge may fittingly be dedicated to those who have borne arms in support of the union.

Orders have been given for special memorial tablets, one to be placed on either rend of the bridge, with the following inscription:

Memorial Bridge

Dedicated to All Soldiers and

Sailors of Pulaski County Who

Have Served Our Country

Negotiations are now under way for the engagement of a speaker of renown to deliver a dedicatory address. Other features of the day’s exercises will be similarly appropriate to the occasion. Further plans are being worked out on a scale calculated to make the forthcoming celebration of the Fourth one of the most elaborate and impressive ever held in Pulaski County.

In addition to the completion of the new bridge, other extensive improvements in the Association park will be ready by that time. Work has been started on a bath house, divided into about twenty rooms, where bathing suits will be kept for rent and where privacy may be secured by both men and women. It is to stand between the pavilion and the present free bath houses. Permanent refreshment and band stands are under way, the interior of the pavilion is to be redecorated and the floor prepared for dancing, and further playground equipment installed. The association has contracted with Harry Kistler to take charge of all concessions. He is to operate the refreshment stand, oversee the renting of bathing suits and rooms, and so on. Solomon Stout continues as custodian.

Winamac Republic Jun 7 1923, Microfilm: Fourth of July to be Observed with Dedication

Tippecanoe Footbridge to Memory of Pulaski County Soldiers – Center of Grand Celebration – Winamac is to have a real red-hot celebration on the Fourth of July. The park association co-operating with the American Legion and Kiwanis club is planning for a big picnic with the day crowded full of good times. Memorial Bridge, now under construction will be formally dedicated and a speaker of note is being booked for the address.

The day’s program is being arranged by the executive committee of the association composed of J.G. Reidelbach, E.W. Smith and M.S. Dilts and committees from the Legion and Kiwanis club.

The bridge will probably be completed within a fortnight. The abutments and entire structure is to be painted and the bridge and park will be one of the most attractive places to be found in any community. The bridge is to be dedicated to the soldier and sailor of the county who have served their country.

The committee intends to have many new features and amusements established at the park by the Fourth. A band and speakers stand will be one of the additions, while a permanent refreshment stand is now under construction. Smaller stands will be placed at convenient places as well. The association has retained all refreshment privileges for the season. Harry Kistler has been selected as manager and will have charge of all the stands and the pavilion. A permanent stand is being erected on the west side of the park, which will contain kitchen conveniences and refrigerator. The stands will be open all day and in the evenings and dances will be given regularly at the pavilion.

A bath house containing eighteen private compartments is to be built at once, at an estimated cost of $1000 to $1200. Part of the material is already on the ground and the work is to be rushed. The structure is to be 12×44 feet, containing an office, and separate sections for the men’s and women’s locker rooms. Bathing suits for men, women and children may be rented at a nominal cost.

The two bath houses already there are for public use and no charge is made for them. The bathing beach has been dredged to different depths for convenience of all.

Now then. Everybody – reserve Wednesday, July 4, for the Winamac bridge dedication and celebration.

The celebration is planned as a county-wide affair as the bridge is to be dedicated to the memory of all soldiers of Pulaski county.

A committee from the Legion Post will have charge of the parade and Memorial Bridge dedication exercises. A committee from the Kiwanis club will arrange for the band contests and fire-works.

Pulaski County Democrat Jun 14 1923, Microfilm: Culver Staff to Dedicate Bridge

General Gignilliat to Conduct Memorial Ceremonies – Part of 4^th Celebration – Congressman Cook to Deliver Patriotic Address – Busy Day’s Program to Close with Display of Fireworks – The dedication of the Memorial Suspension Bridge across the Tippecanoe river in Winamac, on July 4^th, is to be conducted by Brigadier General Gignilliat of the Culver Military Academy, assisted by his staff and squads of students from the naval school, the summer school and the woodcraft camp.

Learning that the bridge is to be dedicated to Pulaski county soldiers of all wars, as a part of exercises under the auspices of the American Legion, General Gignilliat announced his complete readiness to take part in the ceremonies, when visited Friday by Winamac representatives having the affair in charge. He expressed regret that the date falls only two days after the opening of the Culver summer term, and before organization of the school will have been sufficiently effected to permit the bringing of a large troop of cadets.

One-pound field pieces will be brought from the academy for the purpose of firing proper salutes. These will probably be in charge of regular army officers, it is stated.

Congressman Samuel E. Cook of Huntington, the Eleventh district’s member of the national house of representatives, is to deliver an address appropriate to the occasion. Judge Cook, in accepting the invitation over the telephone, likewise expressed pleasure over the prospect of spending the day with Pulaski County constituents.

Further details of the day’s program are being given attention. For the first time in several years there will be a display of fireworks, fired in accordance with regulations from the office of the state fire marshal. There is to be a ball game, of course, while the park playground equipment and bathing facilities will be in full swing.

Winamac Republican Jun 14 1923, Microfilm: Dedication Will Form Center for Fourth Occasion

Culver Military Academy Officers Charge of Ceremonies at Formal Opening of Memorial Bridge – On the Fourth of July, Grig. [sic] Gen. Gignilliat and his staff of Culver Military Academy will conduct the ceremonies at the dedication of the new suspension foot-bridge across the river near the artesian well, when the structure is formally opened in memorial of the soldiers of all wars who went from Pulaski county.

The dedication will be the central event of the Fourth of July celebration which will be held at the Winamac parks on the national holiday. Brig. Gen. Gignilliat was the first state commander of the Indiana American Legion organization. He has promised to bring naval cannon from the academy for use in the ceremony of the dedication and will be accompanied by all the army officials at the academy.

The celebration will be opened with a patriotic parade at ten in the morning, and the committee in charge is considering the offer of a substantial cash prize for the best decorated auto in the parade. At 11 o’clock, Congressman Samuel E. Cook, of Huntington, who represents this district in the house of representatives, will deliver an address at the park, preceded by a band concert.

After dinner contests will be held for the young folks at the park and a base ball game will be held at the ball park. Manager Henry Grabner is now negotiating with several teams to secure a good game for the holiday. The game will be held about 1:30 o’clock.

The dedicatory exercises will be held at three o’clock with band concert numbers in addition to the formal ceremonies.

In the evening fire works will close the day’s program. Dancing in the afternoon and evening will be held in the park pavilion. The new refreshment stand is nearing completion and there will be plenty of opportunity for visitors to enjoy a full day.

The bathing beach will be free to the public. There are two free bath houses where visitors may dress for bating, and there will also be private bath houses where bathing suits can be rented.

All soldiers of the county and in fact all soldiers who can be in town on the Fourth are invited to participate with the local legion members in the parade and dedication ceremonies. The parade will be in charge of the Legion Post.

The park association, the Legion Post and the Kiwanis club are all cooperating on the committees to make the day a success.

The following committee will be in charge of the band, fire works and other entertainment: W.D. Pattison, Harry Decker, R.L. Bagee, Dr. J.C. Shill, G.H. VanHorn, A.P. Vurpillat and J.J. Lowry.

Following is the publicity committee: J.D. Haas chairman, E.C. Gorrell, F.W. Riddick, C.C. Blinn, T.E. Bothast and Loren Warner.

The legion committee in charge of the parade and legion participation is as follows: Dan Kelly, Ralph Wilson and Henry Grabner.

Pulaski County Democrat Jun 14 1923, Microfilm: Soldiers And Gold Star Mothers

In order to complete the record of soldiers of Pulaski county in the recent war, every ex-soldier or a relative of every such soldier is requested to fill out the coupon below and mail or bring to Dwight Fites, Winamac.

A complete list of mothers of Pulaski county soldiers who lost their lives during the late war is also desired. If only that part of the blank is used, mail to Mrs. Gladys Lindesmith, Winamac, Ind. (A form was attached.)

The following are articles from local newspapers that can be found at the Public Library. These articles were gathered together by Jim Phillips, a native of Pulaski County. Jim manages a Facebook page, “Stalking My Hometown.” Find that page here.

Pulaski County Democrat Mar 9 1923, Microfilm: Permanent Foot Bridge to Park Across the River:

A permanent footbridge across the river, from the town’s little park below the artesian well to the Association park on the peninsula, is practically secured followed [sic] meetings sharing the past week by directors of the Park Association, members of the town council and representatives of the Kiwanis club.

The matter was formally taken up at a park board meeting last Thursday evening, when it was proposed that that organization would finance the project if the town would assure to pay one half the cost within the next couple of years. At Monday night’s meeting of the council this proposition was accepted, paving the way for what is expected to be final action at another meeting of the park board tonight.

Plans for a bridge have been drawn by R.E. Nutt, who estimates that the structure can be erected for about $2,000. It is to be of the suspension type, 200 feet long and five feet in width. A steel tower about thirty feet high, embedded in concrete base, will be erected on each side of the river. Two steel cables, each an inch and a half in diameter, will be stretched from tower to tower, the ends attached to concrete anchors embedded in the earth about fifty feet back of each tower. The floor will be suspended from the cables, at a height well above danger from high water. Long inclines at each side, held in place by concrete walls, will take the place of steps.

There have been dreams of a permanent bridge on the part of citizens of Winamac ever since the park became a place for public recreation many years ago. The present project has every appearance of early consummation, with hopes that work can be started as soon as the weather permits.

Winamac Republican Mar 8 1923, Microfilm: Town Help for New Foot-Bridge

Corporation and Park Association to Join in Connecting City Park With River Beauty Spot – At the March session of the town board on Monday evening of this week, the proposal of the Park Association to go ahead and build a steel suspension bridge over the river from the town park to the association park in co-operation with the town, was considered, and it was agreed that the town would co-operate with half of the construction cost, if the town’s share did not exceed $1,000.

A stipulation was made that in case the park was disposed of in the future to private individuals or a private corporation, the town should then be reimbursed by the Park Association for the funds spent on construction of the bridge.

The Park Association has already arranged for the financing of the proposition, through a loan for the amount necessary over available funds on hand, and through sale of additional park stock in the association.

At the meeting of the Park Association held last Thursday evening, the bridge sketch was before the members. It proposes a steel cable suspension bridge, to be placed at about the location of the temporary bridge used last year. The floor of the bridge would be above high water and the approach to the bridge is proposed to be a gradual incline starting 50 feet back on the ground level, with solid concrete sides, and filled in with material to the bridge entrance. Last week’s paper stated that the plans and drawings were made by Hubert Nutt, which was an error, the plans having been made by Former County Surveyor R. E. Nutt

According to the drawings, the width of the proposed foot-bridge will be about five feet wide, the floor to be of creosoted material. The board has asked Mr. Nutt to go ahead and prepare specifications, and bids will probably be advertised for soon, if the plans are approved. It is hoped to have the bridge in place by June 1.

The proposed bridge will be 200 feet long. A cinder path from the well will be constructed extending to the bridge approach.

Proposed improvements at the park for the coming season include a band stand, another cottage, additional bathing facilities and completion of the drive way.

A meeting of the Park Association members will be held tonight at Reidelbach Bro. office to further consider bridge and other park plans.

Pulaski County Democrat Mar 23 1923, Microfilm: Bids To Be Received On Foot-Bridge To Park

Formal notice that bids will be received for the construction of the proposed permanent foot-bridge across the river, as previously mentioned, appears in a legal notice elsewhere in this paper.

At a meeting of the board of directors of the Park Association last Thursday evening, the plans were approved and the request for bids ordered. They are to be opened on April 2. It is stated that at least four local contractors are expected to offer proposals, and perhaps some others.

The directors also ordered a dividend of 8 per cent to stockholders in the association. While the park and its equipment are free to the public at all times, the income from concessions on picnic days and the like, the rent of the cottage and other receipts were sufficiently above the operating expense to justify the dividend.

Pulaski County Democrat Apr 5 1923, Microfilm: Foot-Bridge Contract May Be Let Tomorrow

Whether the proposed permanent foot bridge across the river, from the artesian well park to the association park, will be constructed is to be decided at a meeting Friday evening of directors of the park association, members of the town council and directors of the Kiwanis club.

But one bid was filed on the work, by R.E. Nutt, at $3,197. This is considerably above the original estimate, explained by late increases in cost of material and enlargement of the plans.

The matter now depends largely upon the sale of sufficient additional stock in the park association to render the work possible. A committee of the association has met with gratifying results in a canvass now being made If it can report enough further subscriptions at Friday night’s meeting, it is felt that the contract will be let.

Winamac Republican Apr 5 1923, Microfilm: Park Association on Bridge Job

Committee Brings In $1,600 of New Stock – Assures Building of Foot-Bridge From Town to River Park – at a call for bids for the construction of the proposed suspension foot-bridge over the river from the Winamac town park to the river park held last Monday only one bid was received, that of R.E. Nutt, who bid $3,197. Mr. Nutt stated that the price of steel and cement had taken a jump since the specifications and estimates had been prepared, and his bid was therefore above the estimate which had been presented to the association.

The matter of letting was continued over till Friday night of this week, where a committee of the park association will meet with the board of directors of the Kiwanis club and attempt to decide on a definite move.

On Tuesday afternoon, a committee from the park association went out among local people and sold $1,600 of park association stock, and it is considered probably, that with this additional stock sold, that the foot-bridge plan will be carried through in spite of the added cost over the previous estimate.

The following are articles from local newspapers that can be found at the Public Library. These articles were gathered together by Jim Phillips, a native of Pulaski County. Jim manages a Facebook page, “Stalking My Hometown.” Find that page here.

Pulaski County Democrat Jul 3 1886, Microfilm: The work on the new iron bridge across the river at this place was completed on Wednesday. All the crossing of the river during the repairs was at the foot of Pearl street.

Pulaski County Democrat Aug 5, 1892, Microfilm: The foot bridge across the river to the park was put up last week. The sand in the river bottom caused the walk to settle unevenly and it was moved the first of the week to more solid bottom a little up stream.

Pulaski County Democrat May 12 1899, Microfilm: J.C. Nye is enclosing four acres of the park with a fence to exclude cattle. Inside the enclosure the grass will be kept down with a one-horse lawn mower. Incandescent sparks will light the building and grounds, city water will be piped there, and entrance will be by a foot bridge across the river east of the artesian well.

Pulaski County Democrat May 25 1922, Microfilm: Improvements intended to render the Winamac Park of more service to the public are planned by the Park Association which owns the wooded peninsula just across the river. It has already been arranged that the foot bridge across the river from a point near the artesian well will be kept in place throughout the season. Other plans include installation of playground equipment, dressing rooms at the bathing places, seats, swings and similar features.

Pulaski County Democrat Jun 15 1922, Microfilm: Purchase by the town of the small park just east of the artesian well was arranged at a special meeting of the town council Tuesday evening, and it will be used as a camping site for tourists.

Winamac Republican Jun 15 1922, Microfilm:

Town Buys Park – At a special meeting of the town board Monday night plans were made for the purchase of the park near the artesian well from the present owner, J.C. Nye. The Kiwanis Club this week appointed a committee composed of C.C. Blinn, C.H. Barnett and F.E. Keller to secure suitable equipment to make the park a first class tourist camp.

Winamac Republican Mar 1 1923 1. Microfilm: New Foot-Bridge To Span River

Proposal Advanced by Park Association to Secure Steel Suspension Bridge to River Park – A meeting of the stockholders of the Winamac Park Association will be held at the offices of Reidelbach Bros., tonight, to discuss, among other things, possible plans for the construction of a permanent suspension foot-bridge over the Tippecanoe river to connect the artesian well park with the river park.

Plans and estimates have been prepared by Herbert Nutt, an engineer, of Indianapolis, and former Harrison township resident, and these plans will be open to inspection to those at the meeting tonight.

Mr. Nutt estimates that a steel suspension bridge will not cost far in excess of $2,000. An effort will be made to interest the town in going in with the park association on a fifty-fifty basis in the construction of a permanent bridge. The bridge would extend from the town park to the association park, connecting the two, at about the same place used last season, a park official states.

The park association has adopted the policy of expending all receipts from the park, except a nominal dividend, for further improvements and the permanent bridge idea has been one of the goals looked forward to for several years past.

If the bridge plan is carried out, it will probably be of steel cable suspension type, with solid abutments on both banks of the river.

Before the Memorial Suspension Footbridge was built in 1923 in Winamac, IN, it appears that the only way to cross the Tippecanoe River without getting your feet wet was a large iron bridge on Washington Street, and, perhaps, another bridge at the foot of Pearl Street.

Near the end of the 19th century, there was a temporary seasonal footbridge near the artesian well at the end of Main Street. It was a convenient way in the warmer months to cross the river dividing the smaller Town park with its artesian well to the larger Winamac Park Association park with its playground and baseball field.

In the spring of 1923, a year after the new city park was established, plans were made for a permanent footbridge near the site of the temporary one. The expense would be shared by the city and the Winamac Park Association.

The design was a five-foot wide suspension bridge spanning 200 feet across the Tippecanoe River, near the artesian well. Instead of steps to the span, a fifty-foot concrete incline was planned at each end.

A single bid was filed by R.E. Nutt, an area bridge contractor, for $3,197.

The dedication, held on July 4, 1923, was a success.

Dedication Day

The day started with a parade with a cash prize for the best decorated auto. Veterans of the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and the Great War, and Gold Star Mothers were specifically invited and held places of honor.

Before noon, Congressman S.E. Cook addressed the crowd. At noon there was a band concert, followed by a baseball game.

At mid-afternoon, Brigadier General Gignilliat of the nearby Culver Military Academy dedicated the Memorial Bridge. A cannon volley punctuated the dedication.

In the early evening the band played until the fireworks display started.

Over the years since that day, the bridge has been part of the Winamac community culture, including the time in 1934, when an ordinance was passed against shimmying and shaking on the suspension bridge by “lads who should know better.”

From “Stalking My Hometown,” a Facebook page established and managed by former Pulaski County resident Jim Phillips. Find that page here.