Sugar River Recollections
Podcast Series
Sugar River Recollections is a podcast series dedicated to uncovering and sharing the vibrant oral histories of the Belleville area. Through candid conversations with long-time residents and local historians, we capture the essence of our community's evolution from its early milling days to the present, ensuring these invaluable stories are preserved for generations to come.
Join us as we explore the personal narratives that have defined our landscape and identity. This series serves as a living archive, connecting our shared past with our collective future, and highlighting the enduring spirit of the people who have called the Belleville area home.
Episodes
Bart Morrick has extensively studied the volunteers from Belleville, Montrose and Exeter during the civil war. He shares stories about local heroes and the area's impressive commitment to the Union Army.
At 102 years of age, Art Fahey has first-hand experience with the changes Belleville has seen over the last century. In this episode Art shares his recollections of living in Belleville many decades ago. The stories range from going to school at Oak Grove to the train-riding hobos who used the jail cell as their own flop house.
At 102 years of age, Art Fahey has first-hand experience with the changes Belleville has seen over the last century. In this episode Art shares the trials and tribulations of farming many decades ago.
At 102 years of age, Art Fahey has first-hand experience with the changes Belleville has seen over the last century. In this episode Art shares his recollections of living in Belleville many decades ago. The stories range from going to school at Oak Grove to the train-riding hobos who used the jail cell as their own flop house.
At 102 years of age, Art Fahey has first-hand experience with the changes Belleville has seen over the last century. In this episode Art shares his recollections of living in Belleville many decades ago. The stories range from going to school at Oak Grove to the train-riding hobos who used the jail cell as their own flop house.
The decision to run the Chicago, Madison and Northern line through Belleville made it a commercial hub of trade overnight. In part 1, Joe Fahey discusses the history of the train line, along with some anecdotal stories with Catherine Howley, owner of the Belleville depot.
The train story continues. In part 2, Joe Fahey discusses the construction of the Stewart tunnel and the difficulties they faced. Catherine Howley then discusses the history of the depot as well as unique features she has discovered.