Clark County Press, Neillsville, Clark Co., WI

November 24, 2010, Page 28

Transcribed by Dolores Mohr Kenyon

Public invited to Neillsville Victorian Christmas Tour of Homes

The Tuft’s Museum extends an invitation to enjoy the traditions of the holiday season with a Christmas Tour of Homes.  Participants will experience the unique traditions of each individual home. Tours will take place Friday, Dec. 3, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday Dec. 4, from noon until 5 p.m.

Homes on the tour include:

Major A. C. Martin House, 111 Clay Street, represents the Italianate style dating back to the 1880s.  Major Martin was born in Norway in 1873.  Martin served in both the Spanish-American War and World War I.  He received the commission of Major of the Wisconsin 4^th Infantry Regiment.

Sturdevant House, 202 Clay Street, is the former home of Attorney General Lafayette M. Sturdevant. Sturdevant, born in Pennsylvania, settled in Clark County where he served two terms as Clark County District Attorney.  Lafayette’s son Clarence was born in Neillsville.  General Clarence Sturdevant was an engineer assigned to construct the Alcan (Alaskan) Highway.

Ludwig H. Marsh House, 218 Clay Street, will be unveiling its architecture and extensive history.  Ludwig built this Queen Anne house for his wife Mattie Schuster in 1894.  A son, Louis, was born in 1892.  Louis graduated from the University of Washington in 1917 and began working for Boeing Aircraft.  Louis’ metallurgy breakthroughs allowed Boeing Aircraft to dominate aviation history.

The original Peter Johnson home, 314 Grand Avenue, is of the Italianate structure.  Johnson was born in Denmark, locating in Chicago at the time of the great fire.  He moved to Neillsville in 1877 and operated a furniture store and undertaking business.

Emil Hauri House is located at 109 Court Street.  Emil married Marjorie McIntyre, granddaughter of Neillsville pioneer Ira Tilden McIntyre, in 1942.  This charming Cape Cod style house was built by Swiss builder John Morgenthaler.

Complete the tour at the Tufts’ Museum, located at 26 Hewett Street.  Constructed in 1879 by William Mahar, filled with the sounds and smells of Christmas, this Italianate style home is sure to get one in the holiday spirit.  Enjoy a cup of hot cider, holiday treats, Christmas music, storytelling and carolers while visiting.

Sorry, no children under the age of 12 are allowed.

Childcare services will be provided at Calvary Lutheran Church, 213 Hill Street, with games and crafts for the children.  A freewill offering will be accepted.