The Westville Ledger
October 12, 1998 - Local News, High School Sports, Festivities and This Day In Westville History
Unsettling Discovery in State Game Area: Authorities Investigate Decapitated Deer Carcass
Residents are scratching their heads after a peculiar discovery over the weekend in our local state game area near the North Country Trail.
A group of hikers stumbled upon a deer carcass with its head missing, but otherwise the animal was untouched. Oddly enough, the deer's legs were neatly folded beneath it, almost as if someone had placed it there on purpose.
"It's not something you come across every day," said Susan Miller from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). "There were no other wounds or signs of illegal hunting."
An abandoned campsite was found nearby, adding more mystery to the situation. Police Chief Robert Anderson mentioned they're looking into whether the campsite is related. This comes just after two Ionia men have been reported missing: Adam Myers and David Callahan.
"We're asking anyone who was out in that area recently to let us know if they saw or heard anything unusual," Chief Anderson said.
Local hunters are just as puzzled.
"I've been hunting these woods since I was a teenager, and I've never seen anything like this," said Mike Johnson, a longtime resident of Ionia County.
The DNR and local police will be keeping a closer watch on the area. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, please contact the authorities at the Westville Police Department.
Redhawks Soar to Victory Over Mustangs Amidst Unexpected Power Outage
The Westville High School Redhawks are flying high after securing a thrilling 28-21 victory over the Mapleton Mustangs this past Friday night at Birch Field, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
With the new stadium at the high school still under construction and set to open next season, the Redhawks have been playing their home games at Birch Field located at the fairgrounds. After initial setbacks earlier in the season—such as the first home game being delayed due to a fire that broke out in a train car near the field by Prince Milling—playing at Birch Field has generally gone much smoother.
However, Friday night's game brought its own unexpected twist. Midway through the third quarter, a sudden power surge caused the stadium lights and nearby streetlights to go out, plunging the field and surrounding blocks into darkness for about four minutes.
"It was unexpected that's for sure, but also kind of exciting," said Coach Bill Anderson. "Our team stayed focused. I wouldn't change it. Playing down here at the old field is nostalgic for me and that staff, and for a lot of folks who grew up going to games here."
Senior quarterback Danny Reynolds threw three touchdown passes, while running back Mike Thompson rushed for 120 yards and a touchdown. "The blackout didn't throw us off," said Reynolds. "If anything, it pumped us up even more. Playing at Birch Field has had its challenges, but moments like these bring the community closer."
Athletic Director Susan Stevens acknowledged the unusual circumstances. "We've certainly had an eventful season," she said. "First the delay from the train car fire and now this power outage. But our team's resilience and the community's support have been outstanding."
Local utility crews are investigating the cause of the power surge. Early reports suggest a faulty transformer may have been to blame. Power was fully restored shortly after the incident, and the game continued without further interruptions.
Despite these hiccups, the Redhawks remain focused on the season ahead. They will face the Riverton Rams next week. Fans are encouraged to come out to Birch Field and support the team as they continue their impressive run.
"These experiences are teaching us to adapt and overcome," added Coach Anderson. "We're grateful for the unwavering support for the team."
Community Gears Up for Annual Harvest Festival
Autumn has arrived in Westville, and with it comes the much-anticipated Harvest Festival! Set for this coming weekend, October 10-11, the festival promises a delightful array of activities for all ages.
Sponsored in part by Prince Milling Co., the event celebrates the bounty of the season and the spirit of community. "We're proud to support the Harvest Festival again this year," said Jack Thompson Jr., CEO of Prince Milling. "Events like this are the heartbeat of Westville, bringing us together to celebrate and continue growing as a town."
Adding to the excitement, the Westville Police Department is organizing a Fun Run and Dunk Tank fundraiser to restore the Westville Showboat. "We're thrilled to be part of the festival and to contribute to such a worthy cause," said Police Chief Robert Anderson. "The Fun Run promotes fitness, and the Dunk Tank should provide plenty of laughs."
When asked if he'd be taking a turn in the dunk tank, Officer Casey Benson—a homegrown officer who returned to Westville from Chicago three years ago—gave a hesitant grin. "If it helps, I can make that sacrifice," he said. "Just don't all throw at once—or do. I guess that's the point."
Festival highlights include a farmers' market showcasing local produce, artisanal crafts, live music, and a variety of food stalls offering autumn favorites like apple cider and pumpkin pie. Kids can enjoy pony rides, face painting, and a pumpkin carving contest.
"We've got something for everyone," said festival organizer Margaret Graham. "It's a wonderful opportunity for neighbors to connect and enjoy the best of what our community has to offer."
The festival will take place in the town square from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, and all proceeds from vendor sales and the police department's fundraiser will support local charities and community projects, including the new library.
"Community involvement is what makes Westville special," added Mayor John Prince. "We look forward to seeing everyone there."
On This Day: Unearthing the Legend of the Ottawa Treasure
Sixty years ago today, our town was buzzing with excitement over a remarkable discovery that rekindled interest in a longstanding local legend—the tale of the Ottawa Treasure.
Back in 1938, during a routine sewer project on North Division Street near the Methodist Church, workers unearthed a skeleton buried six and a half feet below the surface. The remains were in an upright position, and the skull still had traces of black hair showing signs of braiding. No clothing or personal effects were found with the skeleton.
After careful examination, authorities concluded that the skeleton belonged to a member of the Ottawa tribe and had been interred long before the streets were laid. The discovery lent credence to an old legend dating back nearly 200 years.
According to the legend, a chief of the Ottawa people, concerned that his tribe might misuse a significant sum of money obtained from land exchanges, decided to bury it for safekeeping. When he refused to reveal its location, even under pressure, he was exiled and soon passed away. Realizing his intentions were noble, the tribe honored him by burying him in a sitting position under a pine tree on a hillside, so he might continue to watch over them. The treasure, however, was never found.
Adding another layer to this mystery, years later in the 1960s, hikers along the North Country Trail reported finding artifacts atop an area locals call "Devil's Peak." Rumors quickly spread that the elusive Ottawa Treasure had been discovered. Treasure hunters and enthusiasts flocked to the site, hoping to uncover riches and history.
However, further investigation revealed that the site was actually a previously unknown indigenous burial ground. Respecting the significance of the find, authorities closed off the area to prevent any disturbance. No treasure was recovered, but the discovery highlighted the rich cultural heritage embedded in our local landscape.
Local historian Margaret Graham reflected on these events: "The legend of the Ottawa Treasure is more than a tale of lost riches; it's a story about the complex relationships and histories of the people who lived here before us. Discoveries like the one at Devil's Peak remind us of the importance of honoring and preserving these connections."
Today, the story of the Ottawa Treasure continues to be a captivating part of Westville's heritage. While the treasure itself remains a mystery, the legend enriches our understanding of the town's past and the people who shaped it.
As we remember the events of sixty years ago, let's appreciate the tapestry of history that makes Westville unique. Who knows—perhaps the legend will inspire future generations to explore and respect the stories hidden just beneath our feet.
Upcoming Community Events:
October 16: Redhawks vs. Riverton Rams at Birch Field, kickoff at 7 p.m.
October 17: Harvest Festival at the town square, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
October 19: Town Council Meeting at City Hall, 7 p.m.