For the Tomahawk Leader
TOMAHAWK – Longtime printer Louie Heuser was the guest speaker at this year’s Tomahawk Area Historical Society Speaker Luncheon, held on Tuesday, Aug. 15 at Inshalla Country Club in Tomahawk.
Heuser recently retired after running his own print shop in the Town of Nokomis. Prior to that, he worked at the Tomahawk Leader for many years.
During the luncheon, Heuser shared stories about his experiences and local history though displays, including Letterpress print blocks of old business logos, people and buildings. Bound volumes of the Tomahawk Leader and one of the books of clippings of local business histories, compiled by local historian Elaine Koth, were available to view.
Those in attendance were also shown a video about linotype machines, which Thomas Edison referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Heuser still operates one of two linotypes and continues to hold onto the pieces of equipment that revolutionized the printing of books and newspapers.
Historical Society members hope Heuser’s antique printing equipment can be saved and showcased in a local museum one day.
