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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…

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,…

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…

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.…

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…

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…

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…