Glimpses of the Past
May 26, 1932
A new raft has been installed at the Whitehall bathing beach on the Trempealeau River. The raft was secured through Isaac Nelson, who was offered the beach equipment by Joe Hanus of Hatfield for the sum of $5. The raft, which originally cost $75, consists of two large air tanks that support a plank platform. Mr. Nelson engaged a truck and hauled it to Whitehall last week and it has been repainted and prepared for the opening of the bathing season. Whitehall youngsters are elated over the purchase.
June 15, 1933
The village board asks the cooperation of parents in the prevention of bathing fatalities this summer. The board plans to have guards at the beach in the near future, but parents are urged not to permit children to go there without an adult until this protection is provided. The heavy rains this spring have changed the channel so that it is dangerous for children who are unable to swim.
June 15, 1944
Bobby Bensend has been engaged as lifeguard at the bathing beach, beginning his work today.
June 6, 1946
Colonel Larson, who has charge of the playground and the bathing beach this summer, reports that the water is still too cold for swimmers, and he will not begin to give lessons until it warms up. He has the bathing beach in readiness, however, and it is in splendid condition, with a wide and sloping beach, and new lifelines for the younger children. Mr. Larson reports that an average of 55 children are attending the playground games in the park and at the rear of the school each forenoon.
June 11, 1951
At Monday’s Whitehall city council meeting, Aldermen Lester Brennom and H. D. Briggs were appointed by Mayor Knut Amble to arrange for and supervise the preparation of the swimming pool for the season. Until it is ready the lifeguard, Carroll Lohr, was authorized to supervise swimming in the river.
June 20, 1961
The Whitehall swimming pool has been repaired and painted and opened for the season Tuesday. Pool hours will be from 1:30 to 5 p.m. daily, according to lifeguards Jim Brennom and Mary Olson.
June 20, 1972
The new Whitehall municipal swimming pool was ready to open this week Tuesday, after last-minute repairs and clean-up. The pool will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. daily. Swimming will be free until July 1, after which summer memberships must be paid or daily fees will be charged. Rules regarding cleanliness and prohibiting rough play will be strictly enforced.