Recreation and Entertainment
Dublin Core
Title
Recreation and Entertainment
Subject
There is no single experience of living in Waukesha. Generations of residents have brought their hobbies, talents, interests, and beliefs into the city. From 7,400 residents in 1900 to more than 72,000 residents today, the city has expanded ten times over.
Yet there are defining qualities among residents. A love of music amongst the citizens has supported rock bands, an orchestra, and live music venues since the 1980’s. Several theaters have brought plays and movies into the city for more than a century. The theatrical talent in the region was strong enough that Carroll College produced Alfred Lunt, who helped reshape American Theater.
Yet there are defining qualities among residents. A love of music amongst the citizens has supported rock bands, an orchestra, and live music venues since the 1980’s. Several theaters have brought plays and movies into the city for more than a century. The theatrical talent in the region was strong enough that Carroll College produced Alfred Lunt, who helped reshape American Theater.
Collection Items
Bowling Trophy
There have been numerous sports leagues in Waukesha, including the Business Men’s League, which awarded Johnnie’s Shoe Shine’s team this trophy in 1959. At the time, Johnnie’s was located at 348 West Main Street, although the shop had several…
Benjamin Goss Bird Club Jacket
This jacket screen printed by Bob Adams to wear during his presentations Born in 1914, Bob was an avid bird watcher and an early member of the Benjamin F. Goss Bird Club.
The club formally organized in the 1930’s, and is named after a Wisconsin…
The club formally organized in the 1930’s, and is named after a Wisconsin…
Softball Jersey
Dale Chevrolet sponsored a women’s fast-pitch softball team in the 1940s during WWII. They were coached by Chuck Heyer, athletic director of Carroll College. Games were played at night under the lights of the Buchner Park baseball diamond. Amateur…
WAUX Sign
WAUX hit local airwaves in 1947, incorporated by Carl Taylor, Mig Figi, Russell Slater, and Lloyd Burlingham. Located at 319 W. Main, it was the first commercial radio station in Waukesha county.
It was a true, home-grown, community station.…
It was a true, home-grown, community station.…
Piano
This upright piano was produced by the Jesse French & Sons of New Castle, Indiana. Upright pianos became popular in the 1940’s and 1950’s as an affordable and compact option for musicians at home. This model was purchased by Fred Rosenmerkel, and…
Sailor Costume
Costumes are often an important part of an entertainers persona. Young Lester Polsfuss of Waukesha was fortunate to have his first costume hand sewn by his mother Evelyn. He was inspired by the hillbilly touring musicians, especially Pie Plant Pete,…
Soap box derby car
In 1947, the Waukesha Freeman, promoted an exciting new community event: the Soap Box Derby in Waukesha! The derby invited boy (and later girls) to design and build a gravity powered car. Racers were required to find sponsors for their cars, and…