The other morning, my wife and I were thrilled to watch more than two dozen Doodle Bugs drive by on Ohio Street, a parade of red and white scooters piloted by folks obviously enjoying the ride. For me it was yet another example of what I love about Webster City, the variety of glimpses into the past of our community.

After a year of living here, we’re looking at our second fall and the transition to winter, wondering about our own level of involvement. I attended an American Legion meeting recently and heard from the new superintendent of Webster City schools, Matt Beringhaus. My mind immediately began thinking about the ranks of educators and civic leaders stretching back to the founding of the community, and how many must be in Our Neighborhood.

In the summer of 1863, a young man arrived in Hamilton County from New York. He came to the farm of his uncle, Hiram Carpenter, at Hook’s Point, north of the present site of Stratford.

Watson Covil was to become one of a number of people that built Webster City into the fine community we enjoy today. He immediately began a school near Hook’s Point and, in the spring of 1864, was hired as the first principal for Webster City schools. At that time, his salary was $35 a month.

While serving as principal, Covil studied law under the watchful eye of D D Chase. Just over a year later, following his admittance to the bar, they formed a partnership called Chase & Covil.

In 1874, Covil met the lovely Mary Fisher, who happened to be visiting her sister in Webster City.

The next year, they were married in West Medway, Massachusetts, Miss Fisher’s hometown. They returned to Webster City and began a long life together, eventually living in a beautiful home on Willson Avenue.

While Watson was very involved in the civic and business affairs of the area, Mary was just as active in the social and spiritual growth of Webster City.

Together, Watson and Mary Covil helped to shape our community.

Watson died in 1920.

In Mary’s obituary, dated April 30, 1932, the Freeman Journal says, “She had a personality that endeared her to all. Always gracious and cheery, though naturally reserved, she was popular not only in her church and its environs, but in all social circles of Webster City. Mr Covil, during his active years, was one of Iowa’s leading attorneys and during his latter years, was president of the First National Bank of our city.”

Covil is, perhaps, best remembered for his work as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Kendall Young Library, a lifetime position he poured himself into. He was instrumental in the organization and building of the original library.

Watson and Mary had two daughters: Ruth, who died in infancy, and Helen, who later married Dr. R. F. Beck, of Webster City.

Helen and Mary are in the photo of the Willson Avenue residence. This family, to me, is a great example of what building community is about: the blending of family, business, civic and spiritual involvement.

I’m so glad the Covils are a part of Our Neighborhood …