FOR OVER THIRTY YEARS — C. E. Craig was station agent at McCallsburg station of the M. and St. L. from 1919 until as an economy measure the station was closed in late 1939 or early 1940.
The Hougen Store
by Alta Hougen Lovaas
In the year, 1873, on the 23rd of July, Andrew, the tenth child of Jens and Christine Hougen, was born on a farm located north and east of Norway, Benton County, Iowa. He attended rural school in the area, the High School in Norway during the winter months and later the Business College in Cedar Rapids. Together with his brother, Julius, they started a general store in Norway. At about this time, on October 12, 1898, he married Julia Tvedt who resided on a farm 4 1/2 miles north and west of town. Two daughters were born to them, Alta Clarinda, on July 7, 1899 and Joyce Harriet on July 15, 1901.
Although Andrew and Julius dissolved partnership after five years, Andrew continued in business in Norway until 1910. That year, he sold his business and moved to McCallsburg where he purchased a general store. His three brothers, Julius, Ole and John were farmers in the area which, no doubt, had much to do for this move to McCallsburg. He was in business in McCallsburg until 1930 — 20 years.
A small town general store in those days was quite different than the grocery or general stores of today. Briefly some of the differences that I remember were: 1 - the farmers bringing in 30 doz. cases of eggs which were candled in the dark back room and sold again in paper bags instead of cartons and the butter was brought in containers which in turn was brought to the cold cellar and later weighed out by the pound to the customer. There were no refrigerators. 2- The bunch of bananas hung from which were cut off the number the customer wished. 3 - Bins of sugar, brown sugar, rice, beans, coffee, oatmeal, etc. from which were weighed the amounts requested. 4. - The apple barrels as well as peanuts, etc. Canned foods and package foods were at a minimum.
As to dry goods, I can see in my mind the ribbon case, the shelves of overalls and underwear, the yard goods, the large book of men's fashions from which men's suits could be ordered, the special order of Christmas gift suggestions, etc.
The year my father decided on dealing with a company that promoted sales was interesting. Each customer