Cover Story – ‘Last Drive’ for Lanark’s Sesquicentennial

Members of the Lanark 150th Book Committee and 150th Celebration Committee participated in the “Last Drive” (the title of many postcards), the Final Hurrah to conclude the celebration of Lanark’s Sesquicentennial year, at the Lanark Cemetery on the last day of Autumn - Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011.

The committee honored the graves of several significant historical Lanark figures: D.W. Dame; John Wolf, who founded Exchange State Bank of Lanark; Dr. Joseph Haller, Lanark’s first Doctor; J.R. Howlett, Lanark’s first publisher; Baby Willie York, and Lanark Veterans.

(Top) Lanark Mayor Edward Stern (rt.) placed the wreath at the grave of little Willie York, the two month old son of A.M. York, a young attorney. Willie was the first recorded burial in 1861. In text prepared and read by Romona Koning (next to Mayor Stern), from “1878 History of Carroll County”: A building (in Lanark) was re-erected and in the upper part two or three rooms were fitted up for family use, and were occupied by A. M. York, in whose family occurred the first birth and first death in Lanark. York came here as a young attorney, and hung out his shingle from this building, and used it both as a residence and a law office.

(Right) LaMoille Poffenberger places a wreath at the Veterans Flag. The poem “Freedom Isn’t Free,” written by Cadet Major Kelly Strong, was read aloud by Dave Shaulis.

Lanark’s first newspaperman was honored, with Janie Dollinger reading information submitted by Caralee Aschenbrenner: “Coming as an entire stranger” was how John Howlett described himself when he came to Lanark in 1864 following his hitch in the Union Cavalry as a lieutenant. He was to begin the first newspaper, the “Lanark Banner,” when the new prairie town was just three years old. He sold the “Banner” in 1867 and with a partner began the “Carroll County Gazette.” Because of his chimerical character, the Gazette enjoyed popularity for its “cutting edge.” Reviewers called it, “among the leaders in the Northwest.” The cortege for Howlett’s funeral was the largest ever witnessed in Lanark. People from all over the area attended. He was no longer a stranger. However, there was only one last typographical error he had to contend with. On his gravestone at the south edge of the cemetery his name is spelled with only one “T”!

(3rd photo) The event concluded at Dollinger’s Christmas Tree Farm for a “jolly good party,” where holiday treats, Silver Moon Winery 150th wine, and hot cider was served to guests. 150th Committee Chairman John Huggins received the honor of being first in line for his dedicated service.

Lanark Christmas memories and family traditions were shared in front of the fireplace, a fitting end to a year full of new memories made, honoring Lanark’s 150 years of prosperity. To all of the committee members and volunteers - Thank You, and Well Done!

(PA article & photos/Tom Kocal)

See the Slideshow below.