EDITOR’S NOTE: Superiorland Yesterdays is prepared by the reference staff at the Peter White Public Library in Marquette.

30 years ago

MUNISING –The Lobb House, owned and operated by the Alger County Historical Society, preserves an aristocratic way of life enjoyed by only a very few at the turn of the century. Built in 1905-07 by Mrs. Nathaniel Lobb, the home rises head and shoulders above the surrounding homes. Lobb had the lot raised several feet above her neighbors by the addition of fill. Rumor has it, says Alger County Historical Society President Lynn Nebel, that Lobb earned her money from running a house of prostitution and a saloon. The more accurate but less colorful account is that her late husband was part-owner of a mine, and that after his death she came to Munising to run a now-defunct brickyard along M-94. The historical society acquired the Lobb House in 1973 and has successfully recreated and restored many facets of its Victorian opulence. The parlor furniture was painted gold, Nebel said, prompting school children to press their faces against the window to get a glimpse of what they thought to be solid gold furniture. The home also features the authentic dining room, a nursery filled with old-fashioned toys, and original stained and beveled glass windows. In addition to the original Lobb House furnishings, the museum also holds a motley assortment of historical items from Alger County’s past. Manikins are dressed in authentic old frocks, medical equipment is on display, and tools, bric-a-brac, and artwork hang from walls and rest in cabinets. The attic serves as storage space for boxes stacked ceiling high and containing all sorts of documents and memorabilia which the historical society has not yet been able to catalog.

60 years ago

NEGAUNEE — Gene Valenti, Croix Street, has been appointed automotive repair shop foreman for the City of Negaunee, City Manager Leonard J. Harris announced today. Appointment of Valenti was made by the manger on recommendation of the municipal civil service commission following written examinations and oral interviews held by the commission. Eight local residents qualified for examinations, which were conducted by Verl Willis, examination administrator for the civil service commission. All but one of the candidates who took the written tests appeared before the commission for oral interviews. The position has been vacant for several months following the death of Albin T. Bellstrom, who occupied the post for more than 20 years. Valenti, well known local business man, is a partner in V&L Auto Service, a firm which operates a local garage and service station.­