Benson High School - Chippewa Yearbook (Benson, MN)

Text from Pages 1 - 84 of the 1954 volume:

Published by the Senior Class Benson High School Benson, Minnesota M 3 DEDICATION To Mr. Paul J. Gilles.who for 25 years has faithfully served B.H.S. in the field of science, we dedicate the 1954 Chippewa. 4 YOU ARE OUR FAMED PROTECTOR LOYALTY We're loyal to you Benson High We're gold and maroon Benson High We'll back you to stand Against the best in the land For we know you've got sand Benson High Rah! Rah! So sink in that ball Benson High We're backing you all Benson High For you are our famed protector On boys for we expect A victory from you Benson High! 5 Congratulations to the Chippewa staff on another fine yearbook por- traying the highlights of the school program. These pages will become more meaningful to you and all class members as the years go by. C. H. MOGCK, Superintendent George B. McClellen, Lyon Lindman, Paul Whitaker, Vern Pearson, Ed Mosher, Ralph Jossart, Curtis Mogck. We hope your high school days have been happy and profitable, pro- viding many pleasant memories and preparing you for worthwhile living. MR. J. A. GRIMSTAD AND MR. J. R. HANNULA (Mr. Hannula assisting Mr. Grimstad, principal) 6 OUR FACULTY MERLE LONG American History 7 VERNON PRAIL Orientation and Drivers Training CHARLES BOS ACKER Boys' Physical Education JEWELL POLLAR English and Speech OTIS PETERSON English and Journalism LLOYD FOWLER English and General Science PREPARES YOU ROGER CONLEY English IRENE KUELBS English LEONA ALSAKER Library MELITTA TONN English and Spanish ANN MEADE Girls Physical Education DWIGHT OLSON Typing and Stenography LEROY ABRAMSON Bookkeeping and Social Studies NORMAN BURSHEIM MARCENE PROEHL Art and Social Studies Home Economics NORMA SEEFELDT Home Economics and General Science 9 FOR THE FUTURE. JOHN SKALA Industrial Arts ELROY FLOM Industrial Arts ALBERT LOKKEN Instrumental Music GALE SKOLD Vocal Music and Rudiments 10 ADOLPH RAVNIK Geometry and Algebra PEARL JOHNSON Mathematics PAUL GILLES Chemistry and Physics EARL ORR Biology and General Science JOHN PETERSON and CARL THOMPSON Veteran's Agriculture CRAIG JOHNSON Orientation and General Science MARGARET LYNCH School Nurse JUNE TOLLEFSON, JUNE MIKKLESON Superintendent's Secretaries LUANNE PANGRAC Principal's Secretary MRS. HENRY GULSVIG. MRS. FRED MIT- TLESTAD, MRS. WALTER ANDERSON Cooks 11 BUS DRIVERS Clarence Mattheisen, Julian Strom. Mervin Swanson, W. M. Pederson. Robert Jones, Un- known, Kenneth Johnson, Francis Strand, Keith Welker. Alferd Hammer. CUSTODIANS Walter Jossart. Fred Bolter, Richard Jossart. Time Out! Snoopy! HALLS OF FAME Ambitious? Cautious. Let's See. WE’RE LOYAL TO YOU BENSON HIGH 13 SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS John Peterson, Treas; JoAnn Jaeger, Sec; Ramona Loen, Pres; Dennis Olson, Vice-Pres. OUR PAST Our 4 years of high school life have been hard-- but oh! think of all those good times! In our freshman year do you remember our orien- tation class and our visit to the Ford and Chrysler garages? This year we had the honor of electing two banner bearers for Homecoming who were Rog Stehn and Rog Strand. Class officers were: Rog Strand, Pres; Jim Huston, Vice-Pres; Gary Meyer, Sec; and Shirley Gensler, Treas. Highlighting our sophomore year was the serving at the Jr.-Sr. Banquet. Masquerading as Chinese Dolls the girls were decked out in pajamas while the fel- lows in their outfits portrayed coolie waiters. Strug- gling with axioms and theorems in geometry and the keyboard in typing kept us busy--but we survived. Our class officers were: Rog Strand, Pres; Rog Stehn, Vice-Pres; Karen Anderson, Sec-Treas. Junior concessions, class play, class rings, and the Jr.-Sr. Banquet all shared the limelight of our jr. year. The second semester found us working hard on the Gopher's Whistle. A sparkle in our eyes matched the sparkle of our newly acquired class rings as we proudly showed them to our under classmates. Talent combined with a great deal of hard work made for a successful class play, Our Town , which we pre- sented in the spring. Last but not least, we played host for the Jr.-Sr. Banquet which carried out the theme Evening in Paris . Karen Anderson, our jr. class pres., was Mistress of Ceremonies for a very fine program. Our other officers were: Lee Lorenz, Vice- Pres; Jayne Carruth, Sec; Ruth Grimstad, Treas. As seniors we reached the peak of our high school days. During the Homecoming festivities which took place early in October we elected Rog Strand and Ramona Loen as our king and queen. The attendants were: Jean Huston, Gayle Valentine, JoAnn Jaeger, Toni Johnson, Lee Lorenz, Dean Holm, Jim Jossart, and Carl Alsaker. We proved our ability as actors and actresses in the fall by presenting the very dra- matic play, The Robe. Editing the 1954 Chippewa proved to be a big responsibility, but also a great deal of fun. Class officers were: Ramona Loen, Pres; Dennis Olson, Vice-Pres; JoAnn Jaeger, Sec; John Peterson, Treas. Senior pictures, cards, and an- nouncements led to the end of our high school days. It is with deep regret that we leave the halls of Ben- son High, for it is here that we have lived, laughed, and learned together. Now as we go forth, each as an individual must follow the path of life, and through our efforts hope for success in whatever the future may hold for us. 14 CARL ALSAKER Band; Chorus; Boys Oc- tette; Brass Sextette; Cornet Trio; Football; Homecoming Royalty; Swing Band; Gopher's Whistle; Chorus Council. CLAUDETTE ANDERSON Chorus; G.A.A.; Decla- mation; Banquet Com- mittee; Usher Club; Stu- dent Council; Chorus Council KAREN ANDERSON Band; Chorus; Ens. Sr. Play; Jr. Play; Jr. Aca- demy of Science; Art Club; One Act Play; Homecoming Comm.; Banquet Comm.; Honor Soc.; Girls State; Go- pher's Whistle; Ann; Stu- dent Council; Jr. Pres.; Band Council. EUGENE ANDERSON Track; Stage Crew; Pro- jector Crew. ANNETTE BENOIT SeniorClass Play; Junior Class Play; Library; Homecoming Commit- tee. BOBBIE LOU ANDERSON Chorus; G.A.A.; Junior Class Play; Declama- tion; Homecoming com- mittee; Annual; Student Council; Play Commit- tee. I STANLEY ANDERSON Junior Class Play. I EUGENE BERENS Football; Wrestling. 15 RAYMOND BERENS Football; Basketball; Track. DELORES BIRHANZEL Junior Class Play; Usher Club. NORMAN BOSCH Junior Class Play; Jr. Academy of Science; Bird Club; Annual. AMY CARLSON Junior Class PI ay; Home- coming Committee; Usher Club; Drama Club. JAYNE CARRUTH Band; Declamation; Homecoming Commit- tee; Banquet Commit- tee; Annual; Junior Class Secretary. GLEN CHAMBERLAIN Football; Basketball; SeniorClass Play; Junior Class Play; Declama- tion; One Act Play; Base- ball. MILFRED CHRISTENSON Chorus; Junior Class Play; Senior Class Play; Ban- quet Committee; Bird Club; Senior High Cheer- leader. LARRY DEMARCE Football; Basketball; Homecoming Commit- tee; Bird Club; Projector Crew; Golf. BARBARA DOKKEBAK- KEN G.A.A.; Junior Class Play; Declamation; Ban- quet Committee. 16 LEE ARMSTRONG Band, Cornet Trio. Art Club, Swing Band, An- nual Staff, Student Council. DENNIS ERICKSON Sr. Class Play, Jr. Class Play, One Act Plays, Stage Crew. SANDRA ESPESETH Band, Chorus, Horn Quartet, Sr. Play, Jr. Play, Declamation, Art Club, Homecoming Comm., Banquet Comm., Gopher's Whistle. THOMAS FENNELL Football. Jr. Class Play. THOMAS FERRY Football, Baseball, Gopher's Whistle. MARY FUCHS G. A. A., Sr.Class Play, Jr.Class Play,Declama- tion, Art Club, Gopher's Whistle, Cheerleader, Banquet Committee, Homecoming Commit- tee. SHIRLEY GENSLER Band, Chorus, G. A. A., One Act Plays, Home- coming Committee, Banquet Committee, Gopher's Whistle, An- nual Staff, Freshman Class Treasurer, Band Council. KATHRYN GOFF Declamation, Banquet Committee, Library Staff. RICHARD GOFF Football, Basketball, Bird Club, Bus League Basketball. 17 ELEANOR GREENE DuWAYNE HALLBERG RUTH GRIMSTAD Band,Chorus, Girls Sex- tet, Flute Quartet, Jr. Class Play, Homecom- ing committee. Banquet committee. Honor So- ciety, Student Council, Jr. Class Treasurer, One Act Play, Flute solo. SHIRLEY HEINECKE G. A. A., Jr. Class Play, Declamation, Banquet Committee, Annual Staff, Library Staff. BEATRICE GROT HE Usher Club, Jr. Class Play. ALBERT HOBERG Homecoming Commit- tee, Projector Crew, Stage Crew. GWENDOLYN HOFFMAN G A. A., Jr. Class Play, Declamation, One Act Play, Usher Club, Of- fice Assistant, Projector Crew. CAROL HOLLEN Sr. Play, Declamation, Homecoming Comm., Banquet Comm., Go- pher's Whistle, Student Council, Cheerleader, Jr. Red Cross Pres., Uni- fied Drive Chairman. 18 DEAN HOLM Football, Basketball, Golf, Sr. Class Play, Jr. Class Play, Declama- tion, One Act Plays, Homecoming Royalty, Play Committees. JEAN HUSTON Chorus, Triple Trio, Declamation, Home- coming Royalty, Ban- quetCommittee, Library Staff. GLORIA HUNDER G. A. A., Jr. Class Play, Homecoming Commit- tee, Banquet Commit- tee, Gopher's Whistle, Library Staff. JOANN JAEGER Band, Sax. Quartet, Jr. Play, Declamation, Homecoming Royalty, Usher Club, Annual Staff, Student Council, Sr. Sec., Homecoming Comm. Banquet Comm. JAMES HUSTON Football, Sr. Class Play, Jr.Class Play,Declama- tion, Bird Club, Fresh- man Class Vice Presi- dent, Track. JUSTIN JEFFERY Basketball, Bird Club. WINNIFRED JERVE Library Staff, Jr. Class Play. MURL JOHNSEN Band, Brass Sextet, Track, Homecoming Committee, Gopher's Whistle. Annual Staff, Band Council. SONJA JOHNSON Band, Chorus, Sr. Play, Jr. Play, Declamation, Homecoming Royalty, Homecoming Comm., Annual Staff, Student Council, Triple Trio, Girls Quartet, Girls Sex- tet. 19 JAMES JOSSART Chorus, Football, Foot- ball Co-captain, Track, Basketball, Homecom- ing Royalty. GLADYS KNUTSON Band, G. A. A., Art Club, Banquet Committee, Usher Club, Annual Staff, Library Staff, Jr. Class Play. VIRGINIA KRAUSE 4 ARLEN LARSON Football, Sr. Class Play, Jr. Class Play, Track, Declamation, One Act Plays, Stage Crew, Bird Club, Play Committees. JAMES LAUGH LIN Homecoming Commit- tee. JOANN LARSON Band, Chorus, Clar. Quartet, alto Solo, Girls Trio, Sr. Play, Declama- tion, Jr. Play, Home- coming Comm., Annual Staff. ELAINE LOEN G. A. A., Jr. Class Play, Office Help, Usher Club. MARGARET LARSON G. A. A., Gopher's Whistle. RAMONA LOEN Declamation, G. A. A., Banquet Committee, Honor Society, Annual Staff, Sr. Pres., Home- coming Queen. 20 LEE LORENZ Chorus, Boy'sOctet, Bas- ketball Jr., Sr. Class Play, Track, Homecom- ing Royalty, Homecom- ing Chairman, Banquet Comm., Gopher's Whistle, Annual Staff, Student Council, Jr. Class Vice Pres. JOHN McNELIS Football, Freshman Bas- ketball, Jr. Class Play, Sr. Class Play, Home- comingCommittee, Go- pher’s Whistle, Annual Staff, Projector Crew, Baseball. MARION MORLOCK G. A. A., Sr. Class Play, Jr. Class Play, Usher Club, Library Staff, Of- fice Assistant. LILA LUNDEBREK Jr. Class Play, G. A. A., Banquet Committee. GARY MEYER Band,Chorus, Sax.Quar- tet, Boys’ Octet, Stud. Dir., Sax. Solo, Jr.Class Play. Sr.Class Play, Ban- quet Comm., Swing Band, Honor Soc., Co- Ed. Annual, Stud. Coun. GENE NELSON Bus League Basketball, Baseball. GENEVIEVE LUNDGREN G. A. A., Declamation, Banquet Committee, Usher Club, Jr. Class Play, Play Committees. DONNA MITTENESS Band, Chorus, G. A. A., Jr.Class Play. Declama- tion, Homecoming Committee, Banquet Committee, Annual Staff, Student Council. I RICHARD NELSON Sr. Class Play, Jr. Class Play, Banquet Commit- tee, Projector Crew. 21 MARLYS NORDSTROM Band, Clarinet Quartet, Clarinet Solo, Sr. Class Play, Declamation, Homecoming, Commit- tee, Banquet Commit- tee. Gopher's Whistle, Annual Staff, Band Council. RAYMOND PAYNE Projector Crew, Science Club, Bird Club, Home- coming Committee. MILTON PETERSON Stage Crew, Projector Crew. DENNIS OLSON Chorus, Boys' Octet, Bas- ketball, Sr. Class Play, Track, Declamation. Art Club, Homecoming Committee, Student Council, Sr. Class Vice President. BURTON PERRIZO Football, Basketball, Sr. Class Play, Jr.Class Play, Track, Declamation, One Act Plays. Bird Club, Annual Staff. MELVIN PLACE Football, Basketball, Wrestling, Track, Base- ball. GERALD PAHL Jr.Class Play, Bird Club, Science Club. JOHN PETERSON Band, Chorus,Sax. Quar- tet, Boys' Trio, Football, Sr. Class Play, Swing Band, Student Council, Baseball, Band Council, Basketball, Sr. Class treas. DOROTHY REICH Chorus, Jr. Class Play, Usher Club, Declama- tion. 22 LAVERN ROBERTSON Jr Class Play, Bird Club. MARLYN RODI Play Committees, Pro- jector Crew, Bus League Basketball. BETTY SCHLUTER Jr.Class Play, Declama- tion, Play Committees, Usher Club, Office Help, Banquet Committee. EDWIN RODE Jr. Class Play, Track, Baseball, Bus League Basketba 11. JAMES RUSSELL Stage Crew, Homecom- ing Committee, Banquet Committee, Projector Crew. MARY SCHNITZLER Banquet Committee. LAVONNE RODI Jr.Class Play,Declama- tion, Play Committees, Usher Club. HELEN SCHLIEP Sr. Class Play, Jr. Class Play, Play Committees, Declamation, Annual Staff. LOIS SCHUERMAN Banquet Committee, Li brary Staff. 2} C LARA SCHWENDEMANN One Act Play Commit- tees. DONALD SKARSTEN Basketball, Bus League Basketball. V , v CAROLE SMITH G. A. A., Jr. Class Play. Usher Club, Office Help, Play Committees, Girls' Glee Club. LUVERNE SIMONSON Banquet Committee, Projector Crew, Stage Crew Club. Bus League Basketball. LYLE SKARSTEN Wrestling. JOYCE SMITH Chorus, Girls' Sextet, G. A. A., Sr. Play, Jr, Play, Homecoming Comm., Banquet Comm., UsherClub, Go- pher's Whistle, Student Council. ROGER SKARE Chorus, Football, Bas- ketball. Baseball, Sr. Class Play, One Act Plays, BanquetCommit- tee. BARBARA SMITH Band, Clarinet Quartet, G. A. A., Sr. Play, Jr. Play, Declamation, Go- pher's Whistle, Annual Staff. ROGER SMITH 24 GLORIA STAY G. A. A. FLOYD SWANBERG Basketball, Track, Pro- jection Crew, Stage Crew, Homecoming Committee. ROGER STEHN Band, Chorus, Football, Basketball Sr.Class Play, Jr.Class Play, Declama- tion, Honor Soc., Stu- dentCouncil, Soph. Vice Pres., Baseball, Band Council. RICHARD SWANBERG ROGER STRAND Band, Chorus, Football, Basketba 11, Track Homecoming King, Honor Society, Boys State, Annual Staff, Stu- dent Council, Fresh. Pres., Soph. Pres. CYRUS SWENSON Chorus, Basketball, Wrestling. LEONARD TATGE Chorus. Boys Octet, Ten- or Solo, Football, Bas- ketball. YVONNE TOLLEFSON G. A. A., Declamation, BanquetCommittee, Li- brary Staff. GAYLE VALENTINE Chorus, Girls Sextet, Triple Trio, Declama- tion, One Act Plays, Homecoming Royalty, Student Council, Library Staff. 25 DONALD VANDERWEYST DAVID VOLLMER Football, Basketball. MARGARET WICK Band, Chorus, Declama- tion, Homecoming Comm., Play Comm., Banquet Comm., Girls Glee Club, Student Council, G. A. A. HAROLD YOUNG Football. Track, Jr.Class Play, Sr.Class Play Dec- lamation, One Act Plays. RICHARD RONHOLDT (Not Pictured) Declamation, Jr. Play, Sr. Play, BanquetComm. Gopher’s Whistle, An- nual Staff,Chorus, Boys' Octet, Tenor Solo. AUCE ZIELSDORF G. A.A., Usher Club, Jr. Play, Sr. Play, Declama- tion, Banquet Comm., Office Help, Lib Staff. We’re backing you ail Benson High. CLASS OFFICERS EIGHTH GRADE Lola Pederson, Donna Abner. Not pictured: Leanne Hughes. SEVENTH GRADE Linda Whitaker, Terrance Svingen. Not pictured: Gloria Larson These officers along with their class advisers have met and solved problems throughout the year. FRESHMAN Roberta Moline, Gary Forbord, Karen John son. JUNIORS Norma Nokleby, Verna Skarsten, Gretchen Lee, Pat Dolan. SOPHOMORES Solveig Olson, Russell Johnsen, William Schwendemann. 28 Front Row: H. R. teacher, J. Poliar, L. Iverson, S. Iverson, G. Groehler, M. Landmark, M. Forbord. Second Row-. N. Johnson, E. Johnson, C. Flannigan, F. Johnson, R. Fuchs, B. Hippe, G. Goff. Third Row: A. Larson, P. Haben, G. Jacobson, I. Johnson, E. Hendrickson. S. Hughes. Fourth Row: R. Kolstad, D. Jaeger, C. John- son, G. Grimstad, K. Kvam, J.Iverson, R. Huston. JUNIORS Front Row: D. Birhanzel, B. Bennett, M. Espeseth, A. Anderson, P. Ferry, R. Erickson, R. Buckner. Second Row: P. Ellingson, M. Ashton, D. Anderson, L. Bronniche, L. Fernholz, C. Dokken, G. Apitz. Third Row: C. Fennell. G. Finstad, N. Crandall, K. Bartz, P. Anderson, G. Chevalier, G. Bach. Fourth Row: H. R. teacher, D. Olson, H. Danner, J. Ferry, P. Dolan, H. Bolt, C. Darling, J. Bosch. 29 First Row: N. Nokleby, B. O'Malley, A. Motzke, S. Perrizo, E. Moll, A. Nelson, D. McQuaid. Second Row: K. Maher, R. Rodi, M. Reardon, B. Russell, J. Peterson, C. Ranney, G. Lee, G. Lucas. Third Row: R. Lee, K. Olson, R. Logan, T. Rutledge, W. Larson, G. Rois, K. Nelson. Fourth Row; H. R. teacher, M. Long, R. Nord- by, M. Pederson, M. Mort, R. Preuss, D. Lund. L. Meyer. JUNIORS First Row: G. Tollegson, M. Wardlow, A. Svea, V. Skarsten, D. Ulstad, L. Underthun, L. Sanders, G. Wolla, G. Stottler. Second Row: R. Waldowski, S.Syverson, J.Suckow, J.Vergin, D.Tjosaas, M. Wardlow, R. Syver- son, R. Waldowski, Third Row: H. R. teacher, A. Ravnik, D. Svor, D. Sonsteng, D. Weber. R. Whitaker, J. Turcotte, W. Voorhees. 30 First Row: D Johnson, S. Johnson, M. Krattenmaker, G. Hughes, M. Knutson. A. Hoffman. Second Row: S. Hendrickson, M. Kobberman, C. Kobberman, J. Jossart, C. Jaeger, S. Holm, S. Hendrickson. Third Row: J. Jergenson, W. Helgeson, S. Kirschbaum, T. Klassen, S. Knutson, C. Jenc, B. Hoiland, Fourth Row; H. R. teacher, E. Orr, R. Johnson, R. Kuhns. C. Kolb, D. Holstad, G. Hughes. R. Hoiland, M. Kellner. SOPHOMORES First Row: C.Gomer, D. Hanson, S.Connelly, R. Anderson, E. Armstrong, R.Grothe, A.Ellingson, H. R. teach- er, M. Tonn. Second Row: C. Anfinson, R. Benson, J. Goggin, P. Grafft, L. Fladeland, M. Collins. J. Erick- son. Third Row: C. Benoit, D. Cleland, D. Berens, L. Hanson, L. Anding, J. Coleman, N. Baker, B. Frieberg, Fourth Row: P. Burk, C. Evenson, A. Helgeson, M. Hagen, J. Craymer, A. Dokken, V. Amundson. 31 Front Row: B. Landvark. V. Loen, B. Natterstad, R. Maanum. Second Row: M. Loen, M. Loen, M. Mills, B. Mortenson. M. Lindahl, B. Lundcbrek. Third Row: H. R. teacher, C. Bosacker, Y. Lund, S. Olson, J. Nord- strom, C. Leddin, D. Lindstrom, D. Olson. Fourth Row: D. Meyer, T. Peterson, T. McNellis, M. Mills, R. Perrizo, J. Pierce, R. Matthies. SOPHOMORES Front Row: M. Rutledge, D. Smith, E. Swenson, E. Rodahl. Second Row: C. Wick, J. Schuerman, G. Raske, A. Thompson, R. Swenson, V. Wing, G. Skare. Third Row: V. Thielke, L. Stottler, D. Williams, F. Schaaf, H. R. teacher, A. Meade, P.Schluter, E. VanderWeyst, M.Toberts. Fourth Row: R.Rode, S. Syverson, D. Rup- pe. J. Wogan, K. Simonson, W. Schwendemann, L. Wiebold. 32 Front Row: D. Diederich, D. Benson, C, Brown, M. Coleman, K. Brown, J. Dokkebakken. Second Row: D. Cram, D. Beale, D. Espeseth, L. Danner, D. Birhanzel, S. Ellingboe, B. Beedle, E. Aylward. Third Row: M. Fennell, R. Apitz, M. Abner, M. Dokken, L. Bennett, A. Christenson, M. Fernholz, Fourth Row: V. Prail, H. R. teacher, J. Barrett, V. Draheim, T. Arneson, R. Amundson, D. Bosch, R. Christenson. FRESHMAN Front Row: P. Floan, M. Giese, M. Hecker, C. Kamrud, B. Gunderson, J. Ferry, K. Iverson. Second Row: A. Hanson, D.Jaeger, S.Flaten, B.Johnson, C.Johnson, K.Johnson, L.Johanson, D.Johnson. Third Row: L. John- son, J.Haukos, M.Johnson, L.Hughes, K.Kearney, C.Ferry, D. Goff, R. Jaeger. Fourth Row: L. Fowler, H. R. teacher, G. Forbord, J Hagert, G. Hanson, E. Johnson, W. Hanson, J. Kellner, R. Grant. 33 Front Row: S.Quinn, C.Olson, S. Knutson, W. Payne, C. Lee. Second Row: R. Moline, B. Ohmacht, A. Mc- Nellis, B.Neuhaus, L. Lundebrek, P. Lysen, C.Kobbermann. Third Row: L. Abramson, H.R. teacher, J. Peter- son, S.Lee, O.Lundebrek, K. Lundgren, W. Moll, R. Logan. Fourth Row: J. Opeien, J. Pahl, W. Lee, S. Min- ion, L. Lokken, D. Mortenson, J. Oestreich. FRESHMAN First Row; J.Schoolmeesters, D. Samsal, D. VanderWeyst, D. Schlueter, D. Sandstrom, B. Rode, L. Simonson, H.R.teacher, I.Kuelbs. Second Row: H. Tjosaas, P. Reuss, R. Wing, A. Ulstad, J. Roby, B. Roberts, B. Sather, D. Svor, M. Wallace. Third Row: D. Turcotte, D. Todd, C. Vinge, R. Rittenour, L. Schuerman, B. Rode, S. Ruppe. Fourth Row: R. Skare, D. Sandmeyer, L. Swanberg, D. Radke, W. Suckow, T. Skarsten, F. Vergin, R. Swenson. 31 Front Row: E.Stottler, M. Olson, G. Tollefson, J. Tatge, R. Conley, H. R. teacher. Second Row: M. Puchal- ski, S. Smith, L. Pederson, G. Rykken, A. Ranney, K. Rutledge, C. VanderWeyst. Third Row: P. Puchalski, D.Smith, L. Ronholdt, R. Philbrick, B. Olson, R. Schlueter, R. Smith. Fourth Row: B. Sanders, D. Wildeboer, D. Sunde, G. Skarsten, W. Young, S. Smith. EIGHTH Front Row: K. Naig, D. Hanson, R. Holtan, D. Leddin, M. Hoffman, P. Johnson, H. R. teacher. Second Row: S. Landmark, P. Kvam, D. Krattenmaker, C. Mitteness, J.Hoffman, S. Logan. Third Row: L. Loen, L. Hughes, M. Huseth, R. Huston, G. Nelson, C. Hites, W. Hughes. Fourth Row: P. Hanson, J. Johnson, R. Johnson, C. O'Brien, E. Motzko, J. McGeary. 3S Front Row: C. Bennett, L. Hanson, J. Anderson, J. Goff, J. Goff. Second Row: P. Colness, J. Ellingson, B. Grendahl, S. Christopherson, S. Christopherson, B. Buckner. Third Row: J. Chevalier, J. Chevalier, H. Chris- tenson, C.Hanson, P.Gallagher. J.Gesme, J. Amundson. Fourth Row: J. Torgerson, H. R. teacher, K. Ander- son, G. Dokken, D. Amundson, G. Fernholz, C. Christopherson, D. Abner. EIGHTH-SEVENTH Front Row: R. Fischer, M. Erdman, D. Dokkebakken, J. Grendahl, W. Dokkebakken. Second Row: D. Elling- son, M.Ferry, J. Getchell, D. Anderson, D. Anderson, A. Diederich, D. Amundson. Third Row: J. Chevalier, E. Anding, S. Fennell, F. Anding, J. Greene, D. Amundson, G. Amlie, M. Arneson. Fourth Row: D. Benson, E. Anderson, C. Amlie, P. Benson, L. Atchison, R. Bolt, T. Gilles, N. Bursheim, H. R. teacher. 36 Front Row: L. Larson, L.Johnson, G. Johnson, D. Ingvalson, D. Hoverson, R. Moline. Second Row: J. Laurant, S. Mortenson, G. Larson, J. Hagen, H. Johnson, H. Johnson, J. Johnson. Third Row: K. Lundebrek, P. Kuhns, J. Johnson, R. Gulsvig, G. McClellen, R. Jensen, J. Kearney, B. Jergenson. Fourth Row: N. Seefeldt, H. R. teacher. S. Johnston, D. Johnson, E. Hanson, B. Loen, J. Lindstrom, J. McCarthy, S. Kvamme. SEVENTH Front Row: D. Rodi, L. Swanberg, J. Motzko, F. Steiner. S. Stutelberg, M. Swanson, L. Wing, J. Wrobleski. Second Row: D.Philbrick, M. Tatge, P.Thole, M.Simonson, L. Sandstrom, C. Skarsten, L. Rasmussen. Third Row- R. Puchalski, G. Nelson, B.Olson, M.O'Malley. T.Svingen, J.Rohne, R. Tongen. R. Weber. Fourth Row; C. Perrizo. L. Whitaker. K. Winkelman, M. Suckow, L. O’Malley, T. Wordelman, D. Vieman, E. Flom, H. R. teacher. 37 ALL AROUND ATHLETE Roger Skare FOOTBALL Roger Strand HONORABLE MENTION Jim Jossart 38 MUSfC Ruth Grimstad HONORABLE MENTION Gary Meyer SCHOOL SPIRIT Gary Meyer HONORABLE MENTION Lee Lorenz DRAMA Roger Stehn HONORABLE MENTION Sonja Johnson Dean Holm Karen Anderson SCIENCE Justin Jeffery HONORABLE MENTION Gary Meyer 39 NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY VALEDICTORIAN SALUT ATORIAN Karen Anderson Norman Bosch Members of this organization are selected on the basis of leadership, service, character, and scholarship. To be elected, juniors must have a B average and seniors must rank in the upper one-fourth of their class. Membership in the society is limited to five per cent of the junior class. These students have produced a fine record for them- selves and for Benson High School. The Chippewa congratulates and wishes you the best of luck in what ever you may undertake in the future. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY Front Row: J. Peterson, G. Lee, P. Haben, K. Anderson, K. Bartz, J. Carruth, R. Loen. Second Row: A. Lar- son, C. Hollen, M. Nordstrom, M. Espeseth, B. Anderson, R. Grimstad, L. Lorenz, M. Christenson, G. Meyer. Third Row; R. Strand. R. Stehn, P. Dolan, J. McNelis, G. Pahl, N. Bosch, C. Alsaker. 40 We’ll Back You To Stand £23 , OBSC «£5 Front Row: J.Smith, R.Grimstad, J. Huston, D. Reich, C. Gomer, L. Underthum, G. Wolla, A. Anderson. Sec- ond Row: B.Frieberg, D. Ulstad, A. Apitz, B. Hippe, P. Anderson, S. Hughes, J. Peterson, G. Valentine. Third Row; J.Jergenson, R. Kuhns, R. Logan, J. Peter- son, R. Skare, J. Jossart, A. Dokken. Back Row: T. Peterson, D. Meyer, W. Voorhees, L. Lorenz, C. Al- saker, C.Swenson, G. Meyer, C. Kolb, L. Bronniche, R. Whitaker, P. Dolan, R. Strand, R. Stehn. Gale Skold, in his first year of choir directing here, turned out another good choir. It contained 69 members. In December it gave a Christmas Concert combined with the speech department-1 s pageant. Be- sides that it gave a spring concert, sang at the senior 42 Front Row; J. Jossart, D. Mitteness, M. Espeseth, J. Larson, J. Nordstrom, C. Anfinson, M. Wick, B. An- derson, D.Hanson. Second Row: Director, G. Skold, K. Anderson, S. Johnson, G. Lee, C. Anderson, S. Sy- verson, G. Raske, S. Espeseth. Third Row: C. John- son, R. Huston, R. Dale, M. Pederson, P. Haben, M. Mort, K. Bartz, G. Finstad. Back Row: C. Johnson, L. Tatge, D. Olson, R. Johnson, M. Christenson, R. Syverson, L. Hanson, R. Smith. class play and other events . Choir ensembles gain valu- able experience by per- forming at outside events such as Kiwanis, churches and the like. An addition to our equipment this year consisted of new folios which were received with much appreciation. Bottom Row: M. Nordstrom, J. Larson, B. Smith, K. Bartz, A. Ulstad. Second Row; M. Mort, R. Stehn, S. Sy- verson, D. Ulstad, S.Olson, S. Gensler, S. Johnson, J. Jossart. Third Row: M. Peterson, C. Leddin, D. Meyer, A. Larson, G. Knutson, E. Armstrong, S. Quinn, M. Hecker, C. Ricke, J. Nordstrom, J. Jaeger, Fourth Row: N. Nokleby, R. Grothe, C. Johnson, P. Ellingson, K. Johnson, J. Peterson, S. Perrizo, J. Peterson, G. Meyer, D. Lindstrom, J. Carruth, T. Peterson. Back Row: M. Vieman, G. Raske, R. Johnsen, A. Dokken, G. Groeh- ler, M. Wick, Mr. Lokken. DIRECTOR Sr. EokRen STUDENT G iY director MeVeI BENSON HIGH He's done it again! Under the direction of Mr. Albert Lokken,Ben- son High School turned out another fine eighty piece band. Always add- ing pep to pep fests, football and basketball games was one of the ac- tivities of the band. It al- so gave a Christmas con- cert, spring concert, and 44 Bottom Row: R.Grimstad, J.Peterson, M.Espeseth, B. Frieberg, C. Gomer. Second Row: G. Lee, S. Espeseth, L. Underthun, R. Maanum, S. Knutson, L. Johansen, J. Bosch, D. Todd. Third Row: K. Anderson, C. Alsaker, L. Armstrong, C. Ranney, Craig Johnson, L. Lokken, S. Syverson, J. Coleman, G. Mort, F. Hughes, G. Wolla, Fourth Row: R. Strand, R. Syverson, R. Dale, C. Anfinson, W. Helgeson, C. Kamrud, W. Lee, M. Johnsen, D. Mitteness, R. Huston, R. Christenson, B. Johnson, R. Whitaker. SCHOOL BAND bi-weekly summer con- certs. In June it went to Minneapolis and march- ed in the Jaycee parade and attended the music festival at Elbow Lake in April. Under the man- agership of Shirley Gen- sler it underwent an- other successful maga- zine drive which went o- ver its quota of $1500. rr°nt RoW: j p stfom, t , e fe'erson,V Til, 45 MUSICAL ENSEMBLES GIRLS’ SEXTET K. Anderson, G. Lee, S. John- son, R.Grimstad, J.Smith, C. Gomer. BOYS' OCTETTE C. Johnson, L. Lorenz, R. Ronholdt, G. Meyer, A. Dokken, R. Dale, C. Alsaker, D. Olson. GIRLS’ TRIO D. Ulstad, V. Skarsten, J. Larson. GIRLS’ QUARTET J. Peterson, S. Johnson, S. Syverson, C. Anfinson. BRASS SEXTET K. Anderson, C. Alsaker, G. Lee, D. Whitaker, M.Johnsen, R. Strand. CORNET TRIO L. Armstrong, C. Alsaker. K. Anderson. SAXOPHONE QUARTET J. Peterson, G. Meyer, J. Jae- ger, G. Wolla. CLARINET QUARTET M. Nordstrom, B. Smith, K. Bartz. Not pictured: J. Larson. FLUTE QUARTET B. Frieberg, M. Espeseth, J. Peterson, R. Grimstad. First Row-. G. Meyer, J.McNelis, T.Ferry, N.Bosch, L. Lorenz, B. Perrizo. Second Row: B. Anderson, J. Lar- son, M. Nordstrom, S. Johnson, H.Schliep, S. Heinecke, J. Carruth, B. Smith. Third Row: S. Gensler, K. An- derson, G. Knutson, R. Loen, D. Mitteness, J. Jaeger, M. Johnson, R. Strand, Advisors, L. Abramson, N. Bur- shiem. CHIPPEWA Have you got the copies in, the deadlines tonight. or Are all the ads in? are some of the questions askedby the co-editors of the 1953- 1954 Chippewa. Much of the hard work and long hours it took to pro- duce this annual should be given cre- dit to Ramona Loen and Gary Meyer, Co-editors. The annual staff con- sists of 21 other seniors with Nor- man Burshiem and LeRoy Abramson. faculty advisors. ANNUAL STAFF CO-EDITORS R. Leon, G. Meyer. Co-editors..........Ramona Loen and Gary Meyer Class...........Sonja Johnson and Helen Schliep Circulation.....................Karen Anderson Administration............Bobbie Lou Anderson Photography.........Lee Lorenz and Roger Strand Music...........................Donna Mitteness Drama...................................Barbara Smith Organization....................Shirley Gensler Sports . . . .Murl Johnson and Claudette Anderson Artist..........................Lee Armstrong Feature...................................JoAnn Jaeger Advertising . . . .Gladys Knutson, Burton Perrizo Jayne Carruth, Joann Larson Typist...........Norman Bosch, Shirley Heinecke Richard Ronholdt Make up.......................Marlys Nordstrom 47 GOPHER’S WHISTLE Publishing the school paper, The Gopher's Whistle, was the job of the entire Whistle Staff. Seeing that every one got their stories in and also the make up of the paper was the duty of the very capable editor John McNelis and assistant editor Carol Hollen. EDITORIAL STAFF Front Row: L. Lorenz, T. Ferry, J. McNelis, C. Hol- len, S. Gensler. Back Row: M. Johnsen, M. Nord- strom, B. Smith, S. Espeseth. Not Pictured: C. Al- sa ker. THE WHISTLE STAFF First Row: G. Raske, D. Lindstrom, K. Johnson, J. Nordstrom, E. Armstrong, B. Natterstad, P. Haben, M. Pederson, L. Lorenz, C. Alsaker, T. Ferry, R. Huston. Second Row: C. Hollen, D. Hanson, C. Jaeger, P. Anderson, F. John- son, S.Perrizo, M.Espeseth, B.Smith, D.Birhanzel, M. Abner, S.Gensler, M. Johnsen, A.Dokken, C. Johnson. Third Row: Advisor, O. Peterson, G. Apitz, B. Hippe, J.Smith, S.Johnson, N.Johnson, D.Ulstad, N.Crandall, S. Hughes, J. Peterson, C. Johnson, M. Nordstrom, S. Espeseth, S. Quinn, B. Johnson, J. Roby, B. Moline. Standing: J. McNelis. The Whistle comes out every three weeks telling of happenings and important events taking place in the school. It takes many long hours of hard work to produce this paper. The staff took over the se- cond semester of their junior year and received a first class award. EDITOR J. McNellis ASS'T EDITOR C. Hollen 48 B. Perrizo, R. Ronholdt, M. Christenson, J. McNelis, L. Lorenz, D. Olson, G. Pahl, R. Skare, M. Johnsen, H. Young, A. Larson, R. Stehn, S. Johnson, D. Holm, M. Nordstrom, B. Smith, S. Espeseth, H. Schliep, A. Benoit, C. Hollen, J. Larson, J. Peterson, J. Huston, K. Anderson, G. Chamberlain, D. Vollmer, R. Strand. DIRECTOR Miss Alsaker The outstanding religious play, The Robe, from the book and movie by the same name, was presented by the Senior Class. The production was given two nights because of the great religious significance. It is the story of the Robe of Christ and how Detrimus and Marcellus realized what it really stands for. The play came to a dramatic climax when, after convincing Dianna, his fiance, to his belief, Marcellus and Dianna are sent to their death by a cruel unbelieving king. Atribute should go to Miss Alsaker for her fine direction of this play. 49 MAKE-UP Miss Tonn and Arlen Larson AFTER THE PLAY M. Nordstrom, R. Stehn, S. Johnson, J. Peterson. OUR TOWN Under the competent direction of Mr. Charles Lat- vala, the junior class of 1953 presented the sensational dramatic play Our Town . The story is of a small town, Anywhere, U.S.A., and of two families in that town. It shows them in their childhood, their romance, and their death. The wife is given a chance to relive any day of her life and she chose a birthday. She finds that reliving this day is so sad that she gladly accepts her place among the dead. The entire play was narrated by a member of the town. Karen Anderson Roger Stehn JUNIOR CLASS PLAY BEFORE THE PLAY This is a scene taken from the play which shows the graveyard and Emily's mourners. The people sitting on the chairs portray different people from the town who have died. The acting throughout the entire play was excellent on the part of all. Front Row: R. Grimstad, P. Anderson, J. Smith, J. Jossart, Last Row: R. Maanum, R. Whitaker, M. Mort, B. Frieberg, C, Anfinson, M. Vieman, M. Tonn, QUALITY STREET The one act play, Quality Street, won the local con- test which made it eligible for competition in the district contest at Morris. Although Morris won the district competition to represent District 21 in Region VI, this cast offered keen competition. The play, Quality Street by James M. Barrie is taken from the original, full-length play of the same name. The story is about a middle-aged spinster, who, after ten years of teaching, finds that she hasn't really aged so much and she can be young and gay. Under the direction of Miss Tonn, this group gave an excellent performance. In the local contest two other one- act plays were submitted. Joint Owners inSpain , a comedy by Alice Brown, shows how two of the more unbearable cases in an old ladies home make friends. Taking part in this cast were Caroline Flannigan, Roseleen Fuchs, Karen Bartz, and Gretchen Apitz. In Christopher Morley's play, Thursday Evening , a typical fam- ily quarrel takes place and is settled by the help of two mothers-in-law. This cast consisted of Burton Per- rizo, R. LouRodi, Grace Raske.and Gwen Jacobson. CAST Phoebe Throssel ......... Barbara Frieberg Susan Throssel..............Marlene Mort Captain Valentine-Brown . . . .Dick Whitaker Gossipers .P. Anderson, J. Jossart, J. Smith Maid....................................C. Anfinson Arthur, a pupil..............Roger Maanum Isabella, a pupil...........Ruth Grimstad a ONE ACT PLAY SENIOR DECLAM- ATION Front Row: R. Grimstad, C. Hollen, M. Nordstrom, V. Krause, N. Nokleby. Second row: D.Ulstad, L.Underthun, R. Loen, C. Anfinson, C. Gomer, J. Larson, P. Elling- son, J. Pollar. Third Row: M. Vieman, L. Sanders, C. Flannigan, D. Lindstrom, B. Smith, A. Carlson, M. Reardon, L. Hanson. Fourth Row: C. Jenc, E. Hendrickson, R. Huston, C. Alsaker, W. Voorhees, T. Klassen, B. Schluter. Students taking part in this activity may enter into any of the following divisions: humorous, dramatic , manuscript reading, extemporaneous speak- ing, original oratory and memorized oratory. A local contest is held and students winning here may enter the district contest. The split-district contest was held at Chokio this year. Students winning her e may then go on to the regional contest which was held this year at Fergus Falls. Declamation students were coached this year by Jewell Pollar, speech instructor. JUNIOR DECLAM- ATION Front Row: J. Johnson, H. Johnson, S. Mortenson. Second Row-. P. Kuhns, K. Win- kleman, P. Coleness, D. Philbrick, L. Lokken. Third Row: C. Christopherson, J. Gesme, G. Dokken, J. McCarthy. Fourth Row: R. Apitz, G. Mort, J. Douglas, K. Kearney, P. Ruess, L. Fowler. 52 USHER CLUB Front Row: M. Morlock, L. Underthun, A. Goulet, J. Smith, C. Smith, E. Loen, D. Birhanzel, M. Landmark. Second Row: G. Lundgren, P. Anderson, L. Sanders, E. Moll, J. Simmonds, A. Svea, N. Johnson, P. Johnson. Third Row-. A. Zielsdorf, B. B. Russell, E. Rodahl, C. Flannigan, L, Iverson, R. Fuchs, G. Jacobson, M. Mort, E. Hendrickson, P. Ellingson, D. Tanberg, B. O'Malley. Fourth row: E. Swenson, M. Roberts, G. Skare, S. Hughes, 1. Johnson, Y. Lund, C. Darling, G. Hoffman, J. Ver- gin, G. Lucas, B. Schluter, A. Carlson. Members that participate in this club usher at various programs given by the Benson High School such as the Jr. and Sr. class plays, band and chorus concerts, and lyceum pro- grams. They also usher for pro- grams given by various organiza- tions outside of school. The members of this group thoroughly enjoyed a trip to North- field this year where they toured St. Olaf College. The duties of this group is to keep files on in-coming and out-going books, keep books in good condition, and maintain silence in the library. LIBRARY CLUB Front Row: A. Zielsdorf, L. Hughes, A. Benoit, L. Loen, E. Moll, D. Birhanzel, G. Knutson, L. Alsaker. Second Row: M. Morlock, C. Johnson, J. Roby, K. Goff, G. Apitz, B.Hippe, R. Fuchs, W. Payne, J. Huston. Third Row: Y. Tollefson, M. Vie- man, N. Johnson, F. Johnson, C.Ricke, S. Heinecke, S. Iverson. Fourth Row: G. Groehler, G. Valentine, L. Schuerman, M. Reardon, E. Johnson, C. Darling, G. Ja- cobson, G. Hunder. 53 PROJECTOR CLUB Front Row: R. Maanum, D. Cleland, J. Goggin, R. Payne, C. Chevalier, Second Row: W. Larson, J. McNelis, F. Swanberg, J. Russell, G. Hoffman. Third Row: R. Nelson, E. Anderson, A. Hoberg, M. Peterson, L. DeMarce, P. Gilles. These operators have shown many films and kept students up-to-date with audio-visual aids. Under the leadership of Mr. P. J. Gilles they have performed various duties such as showing noon hour films and educational films for the different classes. Extra time has been put in for the benefit of others, and this group should be congratulated for their fine efforts. Are your projects finished? When is the next field trip? All dues are to be paid by the next meeting. These are probably some of the say- ings that will be remembered by those in the science club. Our ad- ministrator, Mr. E. Orr, along with the officers--G. Meyer, pres., R. Huston, vice-pres., J. Jeffrey, sec- treas.,--plan meetings and propose club activities. SCIENCE CLUB Front Row: C. Gover, R. Maanum, J. Pierce. C. Wick. L. Hanson, R. Huston, C. Led- din. Second Row: E.Orr, D. Meyer, G. Meyer, R. Payne, R. Syverson, M. Christenson, Third Row: J. Jeffrey, N. Bosch, R. Goff, J. Peterson, W. Larson, L. Lorenz. 54 STUDENT COUNCIL Front Row: J.Lindstrom, J. Amundson, L.Loen, S. Logan, D. Anderson, J. Kearney, R. Rittenour. Second Row: J. Peterson, M. Abner, B. Olson, D. Muteness, M. Loen, C. Hollen, R. Grimstad, Third Row: P. Ellingson, B. Johnson, A. Simonson, J. Schuermari, S. Holm, D. Ulstad, J. Grimstad. Fourth Row: M. Espeseth, G. Valen- tine, L. Armstrong, C. Johnson, W. Lee, A. Dokken, R. Perrizo. The student council has undertaken many projects this year. At the beginning of the year, they sponsored a most successful Unified Drive. The quota, which was $300 was surpassed due to the excellent co- operation of the students and also to a red bucket that was passed around for collection in classrooms by the teachers. A Football Luncheon was given for the football team and their fathers. A committee was chosen from the student council to organize and serve the luncheon. Many lyceum programs were sponsored to raise funds and provide en- tertainment for the student body. Out of the treasury, skirts and sweaters were bought for the cheerleaders. After one of the last home basketball games, a luncheon was givenfor the basketball team, wrestling squad, and their coaches. This is an annual event carried out by the council. During the latter part of the year there was much discussion in regard to student monitors in halls. Nothing definite was decided. JUNIOR RED CROSS COUNCIL First Row: C. Hollen, P. Kuhns, C. Gomer. Second Row: D. Anderson, R. Logan, C. Flannigan, R. Fuchs, P. Johnson. Third Row: T. Wordelman, M. Vieman, W. Hanson, L. Hughes. Fourth Row: J. Douglas, G. Meyer, G. Pahl, C. Darling, P. Haben, C. Leddin. Love is the key word of the Red Cross. Helping others has been the main objective of the council. It has carried out special projects to bene- fit our community. Making favors for the hospital on different holidays helped to enlighten the patients1 day s. They also helped during the blood drive while the blood mobile was in Benson. Carol Hollen, president of the council, presided at the meetings. This is a fairly new, but growing, organization in Benson High School. Interest is gradually being created through the various activities which it undertakes. Everyone can par- ticipate in the Junior Red Cross by serving when volunteers from the student body are requested. OFFICE ASSISTANTS P. Grafft, E. Loen, B. Russell, C. Smith, M. Morlock. 56 FOOTBALL COACH Mr. Leon Brockmeyer Congratulations to Mr. Brockmeyer, Mr. Long, and the entire football squad for theoutstanding perfor- mance during the 1953 season. ASSISTANT COACH Mr. Merle Long Front Row; R. Perrizo, R. Skare, T. Ferry, J. Jossort, R. Strand, J. McGeary, V. Amundson, C. Alsaker, R. Waldowski, Second Row; C. Benoit, L. Stonier, R. Pruess, R. Whitaker, L. Bronniche, A. Larson, G. Chevalier, J. Huston, D. Vollner, M. Kellner, G. Rois, R. Waldowski, Back Row: Coach, Mr. Brockmeyer, D. Svor, M. Wardlow, T. McNellis, J. Hughes, A. Helgeson, P. Dolan, J. McNelis, C. Johnson, R. Stehn, J. Mittness, J. Peterson, P. Burke, W. Schwendemann, J. Ferry, Assistant Coach, Mr. Long. Under the coaching of Leon Brockmeyer the Benson Braves had a very successful sea- son. Undefeated and tying one game the Ben- son Braves turned out three all-conference players. These are Jim Jossart, Roger Strand and Lyndon Bronniche. Making second team were Ray Berens, Arlen Larson and Pat Do- lan with Roger Skare getting an honorable mention. Most thrilling game of the '53 season was with Willmar. By the end of that game every- one was ready to agree on a tie game between the Cardinals and the Braves. Much credit goes to Merle Long who turned out one of the best lines in the conference. J8 co-captains James Jossort, Rober Strand Front Row: R.Perrizo, R. Skare, T. Ferry, J. Jossart, R. Strand, J. McGreary, V. Amundson, C. Alsaker, Second Row: R.Preuss,R.Whitaker, L. Bronniche, A. Larson, G. Chevalier, J. Huston, D. Vollmer, Back Row: Coach, Mr. Brockmeyer, P. Dolan, J. McNelis, C. Johnson, R. Stehn, Assistant Coach, Mr. Long. BOMBER FOOTBALL SQUAD Back Row: R. Logan, J. Jergenson, F. Hughes, W. Lee, D. Radke, D. Anderson, R. Gallagher, D. Mortenson, Front Row: R. Christenson, M. Rutledge, J. Kellner, P. Gallagher, J. Coleman, R. Swenson, D. Birhanzel, W. Hanson. OUR FUTURE GRIDIRON INTRAMURAL FOOTBALL SQUAD Front Row: J. Hagen, D. Anderson, B. Jergenson, J. Getchell, L. Rasmussen, R. Weber, Second Row: T. Svingen.J. Kearney, S. Smith, F. Anding, R. Holtan, G. Nelson, R. Hanson, Back Row: J. McGreary, T. Wordelman, J. Lindstrom, Coach, P. Sherry, C. O'Brien, D. Vieman, G. McClellen. 60 BASKETBALL Under the leadership of our new coach, Mr. Paul Sherry, Benson High turned out a good team of ball player s. Mr. Sherry, a graduate of Lu- ther College, is the only new coach in the West Central Conference this year. Building a team for the future is his main ambition which is shown by the number of younger player s on the A squad. Formerly coaching in Iowa Mr. Sherry turned out a winning team. COACH Mr. Paul Sherry Front Row: D. Vollmer, R. Skare, C. Evenson, P. Dolan. C. Johnson. J. Jossart, R. Strand, Back Row: Coach, P. Sherry, A. Dokken, R. Stehn, V. Amundson, G. Chevalier, H. Danner. B SQUAD Front Row: J. Mitteness, M. Kellner, R. Perrizo, A. Helgeson, L. Stottler, D. Berens, Back Row: J. Kellner, L. Bronniche, R. Whitaker, D. Anderson, T. McNellis. FRESHMEN Front Row: G. Forbord, B. Olson, W. Baumgarten, L. Swanberg, T. Arneson, D. Bosch, G. Hanson, J. Barrett, Back Row: R. Jaeger, D. Espeseth, L. Lokken, Coach, V. Prail, D. Goff, B. Rode. INTRAMURAL Front Row: D. Amundson, D. Leddin, J. Getchel, D. Hoverson, R. Jensen, Coach,R.Conley,T.Svingen.G.McClellen, T. Wordelman, D. Viemen. BASEBALL, 1953 Front Row: S. Skarsten, T. Ferry, G. Chevalier, J. McNelis, R. Motzko, C. Johnson, G. Rois, D. Johnson, R. Waldowski, Back Row: J. Kellner, R. Larson, J. Peterson, R. Skare, G. Chamberlain, P. Dolan, R. Stehn, J. Jeffrey, R. Wal- dowski, Coach, C. Johnson. TRACK Front Row: H. Danner, L. Lorenz, M. Johnsen, D. Olson, F. Swanberg R. Preuss, L. Bronniche, Back Row: Coach, L. Brockmeyer, R. Strand, J. Jos- sart, R. Logan, A. Helgeson, J. Huston, A. Larson, H. Young, B. Perrizo. TRACK, WRESTLING WRESTLING Front Row: F. Anding, T. Anding, M. Rutledge, L. Stottler, E. Berens, D. Cram, D. Beale, E. Aylward, Back Row: Coach, C. Borsacker, L. Skarsten, T. Peterson, M. Place, C. Kolb, C. Swenson, J. Ferry, R. Kuhns, J. Naig. I G.A.A. Front Row: G. Larson, J. Johnson, P. Kuhns, G. Rykken, P. Coleness, J. Dokkebakken, M. Leon, B. Sather, B. Dokkebakken, V.Loen, C.Chevalier, J.Ferry, A.Goulet, S. Quinn, J. Smith, R. Moline, B. Johnson, R. Apitz. C. Johnson, G. Apitz, R. Fuchs, R. Rodi. Second Row: J. Johnson, S. Smith, J. Gesme, S. Lee, C.Anfinson. A. Simonson, K. Anderson, L. Whitaker, C. Flannigan, S. Iverson, K. Brown. Third Row: B. Lundebrek, R. Anderson, K. Johnson, D. Hanson, C. Jaeger, M. Abner, B. Neuhaus, G. Groehler, A. Svea, B. O'Malley, J. Erickson, A.Ellingson, M. Ashton, E. Armstrong, J. Nordstrom, S. Perrizo, B. Hippe, Y. Tollefson, G. Finstad, P.Ellingson, J. Roby, J. Peterson, I. Johnson. Back Row: Instructor, A. Meade, M. Larson, S. Gensler, J. Mc- Carthy, M. Fuchs, K. Perrizo, K. Goff, M. Vieman, A. Motzko, D. Lindstrom, L. Fladeland, C. Leddin, M. Landmark, R. Loen, C. Smith, S. Hughes, M. Loen, C. Jenc, B. Frieberg, G. Hunder, D. Place, A. Nelson, P. Anderson, P. Ferry, Y. Lund, K. Maher, S. Knutson. MAJORETTES DRUM MAJORETTES K. Bartz, G. Wolla, S. Syverson, G. Lee. 65 T SENIOR CHEERLEADERS Verna Skarstan, Karen Bartz, Ray Matthies, Sharon Syverson, Mary Loen. These energetic cheerleaders en- couraged much pep and enthusiasm at our football and basketball games . New uniforms added higher morals to our cheering sections. Every afternoon before home games they planned pep fests to get us in the mood for the coming game. JUNIOR CHEERLEADERS Stephanie Smith, Barbara Johnson, Joan Roby, Karen Johnson. 66 We Know You’ve Got Sand Benson High Bonjour everyone. What's that? It's a French welcome extended to the juniors and seniors as they assembled for their annual banquet. Karen An- derson, junior class president, acted as mistress of ceremonies . An excel- lent programme was presented with top notch entertainment including a special treat by Mr. and Mrs. Mer- rill Nelson with their Musical Hall Tree. Dinner music to set the Pari- sian mood was added by Janice Peter- son. The menu consisted of Filet Mig- non, Champagne , Le Legume , Le Pais , Souffle , and Crepe Suzettes - La Creme au Chocolat. Crepe paper streamers around the walls and a painting of the Eiffel Tower set a wonderful back- ground for another successful banquet. Leading the procession to the dinn- ing room is Karen Anderson, junior class president, and escort followed by Nick Olsen, senior class president. Leading the procession to the dinning room is Karen Anderson, junior class president, and escort followed by Nick Olsen, senior class president. 68 HOMECOMING Weston Lee, Lee Lorenz, Jo Ann Jaeger, Carl Alsaker, Jean Huston, King, Roger Strand, Queen, Ramona Loen, Gayle Valentine, Dean Holm, Sonja Johnson, James Jossort, Danny Anderson. King Roger, Queen Ramona Hail Queen Ramona and King Roger who in their royal attire reigned over the 1953 homecoming activities. Highlights of this years homecoming were the cornation, pa- rade , bonfire , and the defeating of the Sauk Centre Mainstreeters, which all helped to make this a successful homecoming. GERMAN BAND The German Band played in the hallsof Benson High School during the homecoming festivities. 69 QUINN BROS. DR. DONALD HOLM Benson Minnesota SNOW WHITE LAUNDRY BENSON GOLF CLUB COMO TON’S MEN’S SHOP “The pause that refreshes.” Coca Cola Leo Molony Morris, Minn. BROM’S DRUG STORE MARTIN FAIRWAY STORE DeGraff PETERSON INSURANCE BENSON SUPER VALUE KNUTSON’S ELECTRIC COMPANY Benson Minnesota RED OWL DR. JAMES ALBANI Benson Minnesota LORENZ MACHINE AND SUPPLY Herman Lorenz, Owner BENSON CLEANERS 'a me s fuc io 9£M50w,mjN M Good Luck Seniors Congratulations on such a fine yearbook. It has been an en- joyable experience working with you. Cordially, Jim MULDER’S JEWELRY Bulova, Elgin Watches Benson Minnesota PEARSON AUTO CO. Benson Minnesota DOUBLE C OFFICE SUPPLY THE FIRST STATE BANK OF BENSON Member of the F. D. I.C RONNIE’S SHOE SERVICE AND GIFT SHOP 70 OLSON HARDWARE CO. COAST TO COAST STORE GOGGIN SERVICE STATION BENSON BAKERY 'Norsk” Johannessen Prop. CHEVROLET SALES AND SERVICE PAUL’S SPORTING GOODS SOUTHSIDE MEAT MARKET FAIRWAY FOOD MARKET Headquarters for candy ice cream. FARMERS UNION CO-OPERATIVE ELEVATOR Grain, seeds, and seed cleaning Oscar Huseth, Manager BENSON PRODUCE COMPANY INC. Buyers of eggs, poultry, butterfat and rabbits. Benson Minnesota BEN ODLAND CO. Dodge Plymouth Benson Minnesota GAMBLE’S R. P. GRIFFIN M. D. RED WHITE STORE Swift Falls, Minnesota SWIFT FALLS CREAMERY Swift Falls, Minnesota COY BROTHERS Danvers Minnesota JACOBSON FEED PRODUCE DeGraff Minnesota CARLSON’S JEWELRY J. C. PENNEY COMPANY Drive As You Would Have Others Drive — Carefully, Courteously, Safely! CHEVALIER INSURANCE SERVICE LOEN ELECTRIC DE MARCE AMUSEMENT CO. Theater and Bowling Alley BENSON MACHINE COMPANY RANDGAARD’S CAFE Bill Kennedy Manager 71 MARTIN WARD SUTFIN Insurance Agency NORTHSIDE RECREATION KEN'S MILEAGE SERVICE K. L. (Ken) Nappen Owner Benson Minnesota NATIONAL TEA CO. Benson Minn. McCarthy LUMBER CO. Lumber Hardware Benson Dial 27101 THE ERICKSON CO. Furniture, Rugs Carpets Maytag IRVING M. HUDSON Attorney-At-Law W. A. SUND, D. D. S. ROMSTAD BOOT ERIE S. W. GIERE M. D. MOLINE INSURANCE CO. ODDEN’S JEWELRY KRATT NELSON FRAN’S LEE’S BEN FRANKLIN BENSON HATCHERY AML IE- STRAND HDWE. COMPANY BARDUSON ELECTRIC CO. STANDARD LUMBER CO. JOHNSON JOHNSON Real Estate Service Benson Minnesota WIGFI ELD’S RED WHITE STORE Benson, Minnesota F. H. PEDERSON D. D. S. Benson Minnesota PIONEER TELEPHONE CO. SWIFT COUNTY BANK Capital and Surplus $175,000 Your Home Town Newspapers THE SWIFT COUNTY MONITOR • THE SWIFT COUNTY NEWS LOGAN — Benson McNELLIS - DeGraff PERRIZO — Clontarf BENSON BOTTLING CO. Manufacturers of Pepsi-Cola, Squirt, Hires, Orange Crush and O-So-Grape AMLIE Wallpaper Paint WOODWARDS BENSON CO-OP CREAMERY LADD’S HATCHERY Chicks Feeds, Seeds, Poultry Service Phone 27271 BREEN’S PHARMACY A. C. FRIEBERG Attorney-At-Law HI QUALITY DAIRY MAC’S COFFEE BAR SNACK BAR JIFFY WASH HOWARD PETERSON FUNERAL HOME 24-Hour Ambulonce Service Dial 28811 STREED PLBG. HTG. Am.-Standard Kobler fixtures Torrid Heat, free estimates SWIFT CO-OPERATIVE OIL CO. Dial 25311 0. H. Holtan, Manager BENNET’S Service and Repair WEBER Sinclair Station BENSON FLORAL SHOP Dial 31831 CHAMBERLAIN OIL CO. And Service Station Clontarf - Ph. 31988 PETERSON Ford Motor Co. GEORGE PLACKNER Optometri st JANE MORRIS SHOP THEO. HANSEN CO. FENNELL STANDARD SERVICE Dial 25346 ANN SMITH’S LUNCH HANSON OIL COMPANY Shell Products BETTE ANNE PASTRY SHOP Decorated Home Made Cakes and Party Pastries PEDERSON VARIETY CLARENCE OLSON MOTOR COMPANY CLOVERLEAF COUNTRY CLUB D. W. PERRIZO Accounting THESE MERCHANTS SUPPORTED US LET’S SUPPORT THEM CRAIG JOHNSON Craig Johnson, BHS athletic director, coach and jun- ior high science and orientation instructor, sat in the of- fice of Dr. Baker, specialist in neurology, at the Uni- versity of Minnesota clinic one cloudy day last fall. Dr. Baker, wearing a white jacket and a grim look on his lean, intelligent face, stepped into the room, sat down behind his large, gray, flat-topped desk, studied for a few moments the content of a folder, including several X-Rays, then looked steadily at Mr. Johnson and his wife seated beside him. Mr.Johnson, he said, Dr. Peyton and myself have examined X-Rays and results of a series of tests you had about a month ago. We find a serious deterioration in the upper region of your spinal column. The serious tone in Dr. Baker's voice and the grim, set look on his face stirred Mr. Johnson. Look bad? he questioned. Yes, Dr. Baker replied. But not hopeless. What's the treatment? asked Mr. Johnson in a strong but pinched voice. We'11 prescribe drugs, said Dr. Baker, but the most effective treatment is complete rest.” You mean I must quit teaching? For about six to nine months. But I can't! exclaimed Mr. Johnson, sitting a little straighter in the straight-backed chair and moving slightly his long arms, which had some years before, while Mr. Johnson played in the line at St.Olaf college, crushed many an opposing fullback. If you want to live, you will, retorted Dr. Baker firmly, almost harshly. Mr. Johnson did not return to teach at Benson after Thanksgiving Day. The school board granted him a leave of absence. Since then he has been Taking it easy, spending most of his time on his mother's farm near Slayton, Minnesota, but returning occasionally to Benson for visits. His family--Craig, Jr., a junior, Karen, a freshman, and Mrs. Johnson—are still in Ben- son. A series of events preceded Dr. Baker's diagnosis. First there was a rapid loss of weight. A large, strong man, standing six feet, or more, and weighing 190 pounds, Mr.Johnson became a thin, tired man within a few weeks last summer. Then, early last fall, after re- ferreeing an evening football game at Marshall, Min- nesota, while sleeping during the night, he went into convulsions and was taken to the Swift County Hospital. A few days later came X-Rays and numerous tests, some extremely painful, at the University of Minnesota Hos- pital. Benson students have missed Mr. Johnson. They have missed his quick temper which flared at times like gaso- line on dry tinder when a student misbehaved in study hall, corridor, or classroom. They have missed his wil- lingness to help students in need, his readiness to en- courage students who were discouraged. They have missed his suggestions for improving their study habits, their personal attitudes toward life and school. Before coming to Benson in 1943, Mr. Johnson taught and coached at Strandquist, Minnesota, Herman, Min- nesota, and Cokato, Minnesota. While at Herman he had a team that won 19 straight contests, the best re- cord of any team he coached. At Benson Mr. Johnson coached basketball from 1943 until 1948 when he became athletic director. In 1946 Benson's team won the District 21 championship, the last time a Benson team has won that championship. He coached baseball every year but one. During these years of coaching baseball Mr. Johnson's teams won 4 district championships and 2 West Central Conference championships. Last year Mr. Johnson was awarded the coveted Sports Trail Century Club award for having won 100 or more basketball games during his coaching career. To be exact, he had won 132 games. Incidently, he also won 100 games in baseball. Mr. Johnson left BHS at Thanksgiving, the last part of November. . .December. . .one month. . January, two months . . . March, three months . . . May, six months. September. . .Will Mr.Johnson be back with us? We hope so! AUTOGRAPHS We've enjoyed serving you on the 1954 Chip- pewa. Best wishes to the senior class in the coming years. Annual Staff AUTOGRAPHS