Travelers coming to Odebolt for the first time invariably remark concerning the beauty of the town. Its stately trees and well kept streets have long been a source of pardonable pride to the inhabitants. To one man the credit for this beauty must be chiefly given and that man is Henry Hanson, a pioneer in every sense of the world [sic]. His contributions to the community development over a long period of years, commencing in 1874, have been many and important. As a pioneer farmer in Wheeler Township, as an early grain dealer, as one connected with various other Odebolt business enterprises, and as Mayor of the town, he has left an indelible impress [sic] upon the pages of the community's history.
But it has been in the planting of trees that he has made probably his most lasting contribution and, without doubt, the one which has given him the greatest personal satisfaction. Throughout the town and in the cemetery are numerous trees planted by Mr. Hanson--each a monument to his lasting interest in the community where he has spent over a half century.
In view of this it is of great interest to read the following extract taken from "The New North", May 6, 1887. The ordinance quoted, published in John F. Coy's newspaper, explains the origin of Hanson Boulevard then called Grant Street.
"ORDINANCE NO. 53
"An Ordinance vacating a portion of Grant street, of Odebolt, Iowa, for the planting trees thereon.
"Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the Town Council of the Incorporated Town of Odebolt, Iowa, that the franchise be granted to Henry Hanson, to plow up the space of fifteen (15) feet in the center of Grant street, in the Incorporated town of Odebolt, Iowa, commencing at the railroad, and running south to Sixth street, for the purpose of planting two rows of trees. Said rows of trees to be not more than ten (10) feet apart.
"Sec. 2. The said H. Hanson shall have the privilege of fencing the said trees, and of using such means as he shall deem expedient for their welfare and growth.
"Sec. 3. This ordinance shall take effect and be in force on and after
its publication in the New North, a newspaper published in Odebolt, Iowa.
Wm. Graham, W. C. Matthews,
Mayor Recorder."
It was one thing for Mr. Hanson to get this ordinance passed; it was quite another thing to develop the boulevard. Old residents recall the difficulties which confronted him--for instance how it was necessary for him to fence in the trees to keep them from being destroyed through vermin and the thoughtlessness of those who persisted in tying their cows to the trees. But he persisted in spite of all discouragements and today Hanson Boulevard exists as one of his beautiful monuments.
(Transcribed by B. Ekse)
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