Bio: Scherf, Natalie (50 Years in Banking – 1967)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org

Surnames: Scherf, Scott, Bruchert, Rasmussen, Bartholomew, Hughes

---------Source: OWEN ENTERPRISE (Owen, Clark County, Wis.) 08 Jun 1967

A "this is your life" surprise program was developed at the meeting of the Clark County Historical Society in Owen-Withee High School Thursday evening to honor Miss Natalie Scherf on her 50th anniversary in banking. Miss Scherf has served as treasurer of the Clark County Historical Society since its inception. She will be honored at the Wisconsin Bankers convention in Milwaukee the week of June 19th, 1967. A special luncheon with a 50th anniversary table was served in Miss Scherf's honor following the program.

Jess W. Scott, president of the society, presented factual information about Miss Scherf.

"Miss Scherf ame with her parents to Clark County in 1902 from Kenosha, locating near Withee. She graduated from Withee High School in May 1917 and took a position as bookkeeper in a Tomahawk bank. That year in November, she returned to wtihee and started employment with the State Bank of Withee at a salary of $35 per month.

"She did so well that her work warranted a raise, but when the depression of 1029-32 period arrived, she, like all other employees of the bank, took a temporary cut in salary.

"From bookkeeper she was elevated to bank teller, later to assistant cashier, and thence to cashier. Seven years ago, she joined a small group of women bankers in Wisconsin, when she was named president of the Withee Bank.

"In addition to her very successful banking career, Miss Scherf has found time to serve as secretary of the Withee Commercial Club for more than 20 years, and to direct fund raising for such deserving programs as the Red Cross, Heart Fund, Salvation Army and others.

"During the past 25 years, Miss Scherf has served as recorder for the Royal Neighbors of America and during this period she has won top honors as a state recorder.

"In the Order of Easter Star, Miss Scherf has been an active member and leader, and served on the by-laws committee at the 24th Supreme Camp in Los Angeles, California. For many years she has been a member and worker in the Congregational Church in Owen.

"A lady of intelligence, integrity and with an outgoing personality, Miss Scherf has a wide acquaintance and a large number of friends in Clark County. As treasurer of the Hoistorical Socity, she has added prestige to the fast growing and very active organization."

Leon Bruchert, cashier of the State Bank of Withee, who has worked with Miss Scherf in the bank for 19 years, complimented her on a splendid record of service and good judgement. Miss Flora Bartholomew, Withee, sang "How Marvelous Thou Art, a theme from the Holy Bible. She was accompanied by Mrs. Ellen Hughes of Owen.

Arnold Rasmussen, using a map of Clark County, showed and gave information about the 12 Clark County parks, their location, and what they have to offer visitors. He invited a wide use of the parks this summer.

Members of the State Bank of Withee Board of Directors and of the bank staff attended the anniversary meeting of Miss Scherf.