A While Ago

By CHUCK RUSSELL
The Oskaloosa Herald

OSKALOOSA July 07, 2008 10:58 am

— This photo, taken in about 1915, shows the Oskaloosa Women’s Club lining up for a parade on First Avenue West in the 200 block. Signs on the decorated float tell of the club’s accomplishments. The Oskaloosa Women’s Club, organized in 1895, was apparently instrumental in founding City Hospital (later the Mahaska County Hospital at the same C Avenue East location). The five nurses shown, promoted the restroom that was probably located at the Mahaska County Court House. Note that they also mention having founded the library. Mentioned also are pure food, water, milk and school sanitation. It’s a handsome float with two sanitary-looking male drivers. The two horses can barely be seen because of the two curious men gawking at the camera. In those days, cameras were a curiosity. When this picture was taken in 1915, the Women’s Club met in the public library and Mrs. Virginia Knight Logan was president (mother of Fredrick Knight Logan who wrote the Missouri Waltz and Pale Moon). Mrs. Logan willed the royalties from the songs to the Club and Logan Place at 701 First Ave. E. was built for their new home. Also of interest are two signs on buildings that are visible. On the left is Packard-Studebaker-Buick, home of Schee Auto Co. and right is the Underwood Candy factory, Frank Underwood, owner. Hurrah for the women.
— Chuck Russell

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